Bedfringe 2019 Brochure

THE HARPUR TRUST HAS BEEN ENRICHING THE LIVES OF PEOPLE IN BEDFORD FOR OVER 450 YEARS Giving grants to local community projects Offering accommodation for older people Supporting, promoting and providing education

welcome

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

Welcome to the 13th annual Bedford Festival Fringe.

More than 150 events over 13 days from six venues!

Photography: Mark Lewis

Photography: Aidan Huxford

Photography: Barbara Asboth

Bedfringe No. 13: Unlucky for some but not for us as we have programmed some of our favourite performers and some up-and-coming work to make this our luckiest festival yet. With over Pick and Mix (26) comedy shows, Legs 11 Variety shows and Tom Mix (6) shows aimed just at kids there is something for everyone this summer.

So what’s going to be keeping us ‘…up all night 'til the sun’ this Bedfringe? Well, we are very excited to welcome back Bedfringe favourites Ivo Graham, Patrick Monohan, Pete Firman and The Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre company, Although ‘…the world is spinning and she keeps on winning’ as they keep accepting our requests to return.

Bedfringe 2019 also sees the return of our Garden Stage (sponsored by Woodfines Solicitors), which was incredibly popular last year. Showcasing local and professional musical and spoken word talent all for free.

Audiences last year spent many hours out there said they were: ‘lucky to have stayed where we have stayed.’

So ‘in my imagination, There is no hesitation’ that contained within these pages are a wealth of theatre, comedy, dance and musical delights for you to enjoy. As ever we say, take a punt, get that real fringe experience, you never know who you might see here first. Be one of those people who ‘… counts the days away’ until 15th July and Bedfringe 13!

Fi Fowler – Co-Director and Lily Hannant – Assistant Director

It’s that time of year once again where I sit down and write the intro text to the festival brochure. This time I will keep it brief, as you have probably noticed the festival is a massive two weeks this year and we need the space to cram all 150+ events into 40 pages!

The Place Theatre have joined us once again, delivering a fabulously dynamic theatrical programme. Look out for installation pieces such as ROOM and outdoor performances of Comedy of Errors from SE Theatre Company.

Highlights for me over at The Quarry Theatre include Paul Foot, Australia’s very own Splash Test Dummies, Sk Shlomo and Silent Adventure Tours (sight singing in Bedford town centre!).

Many thanks once again for all your support and have a great Fringe!

James Pharaoh – Festival Director

James Pharaoh

The Place are very happy to be back at Bedfringe with an eclectic and entertaining mix of work to tempt audiences.

With no show running for fewer than two days it’s a great opportunity to see all the fabulous work on offer, as well as welcome artists and performers to enjoy time in Bedford.

We’re expanding this year, with a studio to share some of the most intimate and intriguing festival offerings. We’ve got immersive pieces where you can take a part in one of Shakespeare’s most famous shows (HAMLET: An Experience), or perhaps you’d

Fiona Fowler

Lily Hannant

like a show custom made just for you (ROOM); or try our series of workshops Or you could try our new outdoor theatre stage, with family friendly Outdoor Shakespeare, music, poetry, storytelling and fairy lights galore! Or why not join us for our biggest challenge yet? For one whole day we’ll be joining forces with Staging Change to present Black Out for Bedfringe: an entire day of entertainment without any electricity.

Details of artists and acts will be announced closer to the time, but we’re very excited to be putting sustainable arts and entertainment front-and-centre during the festival.

Alex Levene The Place Bedford

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welcome BEDFRINGE TEAM Director .....................................................................James Pharaoh Co-Director ....................................................................Fiona Fowler Assistant Director& Social Media..................................Lily Hannant Sponsor Coordinator ................................................Laura Pottinger QUARRY THEATRE: Assistant Manager..........................................................Miles Leven Technician ....................................................................James Tearle Front of House Manager................................................David Baxter THE PLACE THEATRE: Director ...........................................................................Alex Levene Facilities Manager.............................................................Matt Baker Technician ......................................................................Dave Deans Administration & Volunteer Coordinator .............Jacquie Waterfield Audience Development in the Community:...........Elizabeth Howard BEDFRINGE FRONT OF HOUSE TEAM (at time of going to print): Roisin Atkinson, Paul Barnes, Sheila Bissell, Sue Burnett, Carol Carter, Ethan Chappell- Mason, Jenny Curzon, James Doughty, Jon Evans, Amanda Friman, Kathy Frost, Jenny Goodes, Jess Gray, Brenda Hart, Sue Hammond, Annette Hickey, Megan Holden, Jonny Hosking, Chris Ingley, Anne Jones, Logan Jones, Colin King, Janet King, Lee Knapp, Bethany Lomax, Cally Lawrence, Juliet Lawson, Bill Lay, Rebecca Leeson, Bethany Lomax, Harri Mardlin, Phil Mardlin, Helena Marsh, Oliver Milton, Alex Monks, Josh Nethersole, Jacob Newton, Helena Prettyman, Jennie Sewell, Ron Singleton, Conrad Staroscik, Mark Steinhardt, Donna Swann, Philippine Thiery, Hywel Thomas, Jackie Thomas, Wendy Trussell, Sara Turner, Jennifer Ward-Fletcher, Olly Walker, Cory Walker, Leigh Weeks, Carol Wood & Alice Wright.

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

EVENT CATEGORIES Children’s Theatre

Pages 6-7

Comedy

Pages 8-19

Theatre

Pages 20-27

Dance & Physical Theatre Pages 28 Music

Page 29-32

Poetry & Spoken Word

Page 33-34

Film

Page 35

Other Events

Sponsored by: PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

THIS YEAR’S CHARITY

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Page 36-38

welcome

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

YOUR BEDFRINGE JOURNEY STARTS HERE...

Box office opening times: For Quarry and Place Theatre festival opening times, please visit their websites: quarrytheatre.org.uk or theplacebedford.org.uk Both box offices will be open during Bedfringe events.

Booking tickets: Tickets for all our events can be purchased online at www.bedfringe.com Booking fees apply – £1.50 per cart/transaction. You might like to add a donation to Autism Bedfordshire at time of booking.

First things first… have a look through our brochure and see what takes your fancy. Remember, Bedfringe is all about new experiences and discovering new work.

Every year we see many of our artists go onto big things, so be the first to see them here!

Please note: The programme is subject to change so please check the website for all updates.

Age suitability: The age ratings are there to try to help you gauge appeal. It’s not a legal restriction. All events are self rated. Bedfringe is not liable for any incorrect rating.

Social media: Follow us on Twitter and Facebook! Use #bedfringe to tag your comments.

Terms & Conditions: The Bedfringe programme is subject to change so please visit our website for all our latest updates. Tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded except in the event of a show cancellation or a show being re-scheduled. Latecomers may not be admitted. General concession prices are applicable to students, the unemployed, people with disabilities (often with one helper), over-60s and children under the age of 16. Proof of status may be required at the venue. Please note that some shows may start late or over-run the planned running time. Full terms & conditions are presented at time of purchase.

/bedfringe

@bedfringe

Go straight to the Bedfringe website (scan QRcode).

Both venues have wheelchair access and parking provision for wheelchair users. Please contact the venue if you require disabled parking prior to your visit.

Both theatres have access and parking provision for wheelchair users. Please contact the venue if you require disabled parking prior to your visit.

VENUES

QUEEn’S STREET CAR PARK

4-6

VENUES PETER’S ✞ ST CHURCH

ST PETER’S ST CAR PARK

1-3

LURKE STREET CAR PARK

✞

ST PAUL’S SQUARE

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THE SwAn HoTEL

THE EMBAnKMEnT

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children’s theatre THE AMAZING BUBBLE MAN

BACK IN TIME FOR BREAKFAST

Louis Pearl has been thrilling audiences worldwide for over 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. An Edinburgh Fringe favourite, he has sold out there for the last twelve years.

Louis explores the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerized. From square bubbles to rocket bubbles, tornado bubbles to flying saucer bubbles, the Amazing Bubble Man conjures shrieks of laughter and gasps of amazement from all ages.

“The range and beauty of the effects really has to be seen to be believed” FEST MAGAZINE “This show captivated its young audience and the adults loved it as well. Highly recommended.” ★★★★ BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE ★★★★★ BIG ISSUE ★★★★ EDINBURGH SPOTLIGHT

Bedfringe sell-out company Munchkins & Monsters Theatre return!

Meet Millie, a young girl whose family live and work on a secluded lighthouse island. She dreams of exploring, travelling to amazing places and have lots of exciting adventures. One night she makes her wish on a shooting star. Little does she know that her wish will not only come true but it will change her life forever.

“This is a lovely story which I wish I could have as a book” THE FERRERS, RUSHDEN “Lovingly created to encapture perhaps everything required of a children’s entertainment show… a sure fire hit” A SMALL MIND AT THE THEATRE Winne: Best Children’s Theatre Production, Stratford-Upon-Avon Arts Festival 2014 Nominated: Best Production, Stratford-Upon-Avon Arts Festival 2014

£12.00.00 (Concession £10.00)

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 27 – 2.30pm

Suitable for all ages

60min

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

6yrs+

Sunday July 21 – 12.00pm

60min

KIDOCRACY

THE DRAGON & THE WANDERER The Dragon and the Wanderer is a familyfriendly show that uses puppets, shadow, movement and music to tell the story of Grog the Neanderthal.

Alone in a barren desert and searching desperately for food, Grog becomes trapped in a deep crater with walls too steep to climb. Inside the crater, vegetation is lush and food plentiful.

But this almost-paradise is the hunting ground of a menacing dragon, who will not rest until Grog and all other small creatures in the crater have perished. Using courage and friendship (and telekinesis!), Grog must outsmart the bully by facing the dragon in battle.

The Dragon and the Wanderer will premiere in April/May 2019 in Philadelphia, PA, USA, before making the journey to Europe in the summer of 2019!

£6.00

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For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

Kidocracy is an interactive theatre show for children aged 6+, presented by Keith Farnan (Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow).

Appearing as his alter ego, Brehon, an ancient Irish know-it-all, the show gives a young audience the chance to learn a little bit about politics and governing while having fun at the same time.

Brehon has awoken from a 400 year slumber to find the world in a state of chaos. The grown-ups have clearly made a mess of things and so Brehon offers the boys and girls a chance to rule the island of Kidocracy. In just under an hour, they must elect leaders, come up with rules that rock and deal with all sorts of crises because running the world isn’t just all fun, fun, fun, there’s stuff to be done as well.

“Funny, interactive, lively, intriguing and democratic” ALICE,10 “Kidocracy is a really entertaining, funny kid’s show with loads of great audience participation to keep all ages entertained and laughing. Brehon’s Irish charm engages the children straight away” THE PRIMARY TIMES £9.00 (Children £7.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

4yrs+

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

6yrs+

Friday July 26 & Saturday July 27 – 11.30am & 1.00pm

30min

Thursday July 25 – 2.00pm & Friday July 26 – 2.00pm

60min

children’s theatre

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

LET’S BUILD A PLANET!

RUBY REDFORT

Imagine designing your own planet. What colour would the sea be? How many legs would a donkey have? What would the farts smell like? Well now’s your chance to choose!

Zoom through the weird and wonderful wormhole alongside Gill and Boo, a couple of crafty World Builders (and clowns) with a ground-breaking plan to build a brand new, fully-functioning planet!

Help them escape from the sinister Robo-Cops, play super silly games with the infamous four-footed gameshow host, Legs Dennis, and meet the mysterious rulers of a distant galaxy who come bearing strange plans, and even stranger sandwiches.

You’ll find everything to play for, and every reason to play, in this interactive theatrical spectacular about making things right.

Nominated for the Brighton Fringe Best Family Show Award 2018 Suitable for ages 4-4000 Extra-terrestrials welcome.

What would you say if a super secret agency asked you to be their new codebreaker? If you said yes, there’s a certain hero you should meet…

Straight from her sell-out 2018 tour, Lauren Child’s superspy lands on The Quarry Theatre stage for her biggest adventure ever!

The year is 1973, the place is Twinford, California, and the town’s playing host to the Jade Buddha of Khotan, a legendary statue believed to have supernatural powers. But when the greatest criminal masterminds in the world target the statue, there’s only one person who can crack the case – codebreaker, secret agent, and teenage girl Ruby Redfort. With her best friend Clancy, her butler/bodyguard Hitch and the coolest gadgets in America, Ruby’s ready for her most awesome battle yet! The only thing she needs is you… “anyone who wants to be a detective should see it!” ★★★★ DARKCHAT Nominated: ‘Best Family Show’ Award “fast-paced, highly enjoyable … a roller coaster ride of invention, mystery and fun” BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE “an excellent piece of storytelling” ★★★★ BROADWAY BABY “one of the most enjoyable hours I’ve spent at this festival” ★★★★★ THREEWEEKS

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

4yrs+

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Thursday July 25 & Friday July 26 – 3.30pm

60min

Friday July 26 – 2.30pm & 4.30pm, Saturday July 27 – 11.30am

£9.00 (Children £7.00)

SHLOMO’S BEATBOX ADVENTURE FOR KIDS!

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

10yrs+

65min

Rub-a- dub-dub, The Dummies make their Bedfringe debut with some splish splashing circus set to drown you in tears of laughter.

Splash Test Dummies are here, ready to roll out their beach towels and spring into a brand new hour of circus-filled hilarity for the whole family. See a brilliant array of catch-your-breath stunt work, acrobatics, juggling and the sidesplitting, slapstick comedy for which the dummies are famous.

“Perfect for families.” ★★★★★ EDINBURGH FESTIVAL FOR KIDS “Brilliant stuff!” ★★★★★ THE EDINBURGH REPORTER “where they really excel is their clowning around and slapstick humor.” ★★★★★ ED FEST MAG “What kids and adults so readily enjoy is the adept, unadulterated mischief.” ★★★★ THE TIMES “A show that barely pauses to catch its breath; a dynamic and fun show suitable for all the family” ★★★★ BROADWAY BABY “Skills you’d see during shows by Cirque du Soleil or Circus Oz, it’s like nothing I’ve previously seen.” ★★★★ ½ THE HERALD SUN £12.00 (Concession £10.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

Tuesday July 23 – 4.00pm

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

SPLASH TEST DUMMIES

Shlomo is a world recordbreaking beatboxer who makes all kinds of music using just his mouth and a mic.

Join this sonic superhero and become one of his sidekicks in a world of funny sounds, brilliant noises and cool music, whether you’re aged 1 or 101!

“This is a guy at the very top of his game and he has to be seen – or heard – to be believed! Listening to the buzz from the children outside after the show, they clearly had a wonderful time.” ★★★★★ BROADWAY BABY “The kid’s good. Jaw-droppingly good.” THE GUARDIAN “Forget one-man band, this guy is a one-man music festival.”

THE TIMES “Slick theatrics and soulful vocal gymnastics” EVENING STANDARD

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

Suitable for all ages

45min

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Suitable for all ages

Sat July 20, 2.00; Sun 21, 11pm & 2pm; Mon 22,11am & 2pm

60min 7

comedy

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

AARON SIMMONDS: DISABLED COCONUT (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

ANDREW MAXWELL: ALL TALK (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

“A Comedian going places”* Join the 2017 BBC New Comedy Award finalist and wheelchair enthusiast as he tells you about how his first paid gig led to him performing on BBC2 a year later, and what happens when you are being trolled online for not being disabled enough.

Aaron is far better at stand-up than standing up and his unique perspective on life – usually of people’s belly buttons – gives him a distinctive edge in his performances as well as a sore neck. *Places with wheelchair access.

“A class act” CHORTLE Jewish Comedian Of The Year 2017

Bedfringe Director’s Choice!

A memorable cocktail of personal stories, astute political observations and the odd surprise foray into character cameos.

Andrew is known for his eagleeyed, passionate, currentaffairs comedy, showcased in his many appearances on BBC Radio 4 (News Quiz, Welcome to Wherever You Are, Public Enemies).

He’s been seen on – among others – Live at the Apollo (BBC One), Have I Got News for You (BBC One), Celebrity Mastermind (BBC One) and Mock the Week (BBC Two); and to a whole new generation he is the devilish voice of MTV’s Ex on the Beach.

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

£12.00 (Concession £10.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 20 – 7.30pm

14yrs+

60min

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Wednesday July 24 – 9.00pm

14yrs+

60min

ANDREW WHITE: RETIREMENT TOUR

WE ARE RAISING MONEY FOR

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND GENEROSITY Registered Charity number 1100722 www.autismbedfordshire.net 01234 214871

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What do you do when your life comes to a crossroads? Write a show about it of course!

At 19 years old Andrew White can”t help but question his next steps in life. Should he keep slogging it out on the comedy circuit? Or is University the best option? Will this really be his Retirement Tour?

A brand new comedy show from “one of the most talked about rising star comedians” (Essex Magazine). Weighing up his future, Andrew takes a hilarious look at making decisions, his place in the world, and the conflict of the creative and the academic.

“Andrew White’s comedy act is not to be missed” DAILY RECORD “Insightful…hilarious” THE LIST “Annoyingly Good” FRINGEPIG “A Comedian to Watch in 2018” CHORTLE “One of the most talked about rising star comedians” ESSEX MAGAZINE “I’ve seen far more seasoned stand-ups with half his poise and craft” THE SWINDONIAN 6pm £8.00 (Conc £6.00) – 9pm £10.00 (Conc £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

16yrs+

Wednesday July 17 – 6.00pm & 9.00pm

60min

comedy

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

‘BEST OF’ CASTLE COMEDY SPECIAL Bedford’s No.1 Comedy Club is returning to Bedfringe with three of the biggest comedy stars from the UK comedy circuit will be taking the stage for the ultimate comedy show.

Opening the show is Zoe Lyons. With a mixture of silliness, satire and caustic one liners she is one of the one of the UK’s favourite comedians.

“Probably the most impressive British female comic on the circuit.”

THE SKINNY Next up is Brennan Reece. He is a bright young rising star who burst onto the comedy scene after winning ‘English Comedian of the Year’ in 2015. The following year, he was nominated for Best Newcomer Award at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

“Hilarious rubber faced bright young talent” THE STAGE Gary Delaney will close the show. He is a razor sharp one-liner comedian, who is widely regarded as being the most quotable comic on the circuit! He is a regular guest star on Mock The Week and has also appeared on Dave’s ‘One Night Stand’ and Comedy Central at the Comedy Store.

“Expect a cavalcade of brilliantly inventive puns from this master of the one-liner” THE GUARDIAN £15.00

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Sunday July 21 – 8.00pm

16yrs+

120mins + interval

DAVID ALNWICK: ACTUAL MAGIC (EDINBURGH PREVIEW) Bedfringe Director’s Choice!

Dave Alnwick is a Magician.

This is a Magic Show.

Thirteen full-house Edinburgh Fringe runs. Three national tours.

One TV special. New show for 2019.

“Completely f*cking awesome” ★★★★ THE SKINNY “Genuinely impressive illusions” ★★★★ FRINGE GURU “Ninja wizard” ★★★★★ THREEWEEKS “Sure to have you in stiches” ★★★★★ THE SPHINX “Incredible… daily queues down the street” ★★★★ WORLD MAGIC REVIEW “Exemplary showmanship, funny, quick-witted… mind boggling” ★★★★ PURPLE REVOLVER “Sell-out crowds every year” NORTH EAST THEATRE GUIDE “Mind blowing” NOTTINGHAM LIVE “They’d burn him 300 years ago” PHIL JUPITUS £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 27 – 6.00pm

13yrs+

60min

DALISO CHAPONDA: BLAH BLAH BLACKLIST (EDINBURGH PREVIEW) Daliso shot to fame on Britain’s Got Talent and has gone on to amass over 100 million YouTube views, write and star in his critically acclaimed Radio 4 show Citizen of Nowhere, and appear on The Apprentice: You’re Fired, News Quiz, and The Now Show.

In his hilarious, daring new show Daliso looks at disgraced, blacklisted celebrities and historical figures we’re ashamed we once admired.

There’s also the small matter of family member arrests, exploding buildings in his home country, and the enterprising Malawian who tried to blackmail him… £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

14yrs+

Wednesday July 17 – 9.00pm

60mins

ESHAAN AKBAR: INFIDEL-ITY (EDINBURGH PREVIEW) What does it take to be a man these days?

After #MeToo, incel attacks and man buns, Eshaan Akbar explores masculinity and his relationship with men, women, and himself.

Love and loss can teach you a lot about who you actually are.

Fresh from successful runs at Edinburgh 2017 and 2018, Soho Theatre and appearances on BBC Two, Sky and Channel 5 as well as appearances on BBC Radio 4, BBC Asian Network, talkSPORT and LoveSport ★★★★★ FRESH FRINGE ★★★★ VOICEMAG

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

16yrs+

Thursday July 18 – 9.00pm

60mins 9

comedy

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

AN EVENING WITH MIKE LEMME (AND HIS MANY EMOTIONS)

EX BATTS & BROILERS

American Comedian Mike Lemme’s therapist told him he had trouble identifying his emotions. So, she gave him a printout of a wheel of emotions that he carried around with him to identify how he was feeling. In this new show, Lemme uses the wheel to tell these stories for the first time.

“When a comedian can not only make you laugh but touch you deeply with his honesty and pain you know you’re watching someone very special.” EVAN GINZBURG, Associate Producer of Darren Aronofsky’s The Wrestler ”Mike Lemme finds wry humor in his dysfunctional family and his struggles in New York City, soliciting much laughter from the audience and proving himself to be a comedian of significant talent.” THEATRE IS EASY ”Lemme turns his personal experiences – the struggle of dating in your 20’s, New York City apartment living and mental illness into warm, lighthearted comedy. The show weaves multiple stories into a cohesive narrative, addressing difficult and occasionally dark topics with sincerity and hope.” WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Tuesday July 23 – 9.00pm

18yrs+

60min

GEOFF NORCOTT: WORK IN PROGRESS Bedfringe favourite, Geoff is going on tour this autumn but is coming to us prior to this for a work in progress show! Come and give him some laughs to help send him on his way!

As seen on Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week, The Mash Report and Question Time.

Geoff Norcott’s unique brand of provocative stand-up is hitting the road again with ‘Taking Liberties’.

Whatever the contentious subject – he’ll be honest and blunt without being a dick. Mostly.

Liberties’ is both a statement on what Geoff fears is happening and his intent to playfully push the envelope.

“He’s a class act with a mature, sharp take on modern politics” SUNDAY TIMES “An absolute tonic” ★★★★ THE TELEGRAPH “Objectively funny regardless of your political leaning” ★★★★ FEST “A right laugh…from the hitherto little-known loveable end of the conservative spectrum.” THE GUARDIAN

£5.00

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Thursday July 25 – 6.00pm 10

16yrs+

60min

From the makers of Where the Hell is Bernard? Haste Theatre are delighted to present Ex Batts and Broilers.

Gail and Gemma are two delightful chickens in a cage, discovering life as it comes. Join them on a touching, eggciting and cut-throat journey through friendship and chickenhood.

Heroically saved by Jimmy from battery and broiler farms, watch them compete for your affections, and decide on your favourite to vote out of the cage to pastures new!! A story of female friendship and industrial meat farming told through dark comedy, clown, physical storytelling and live music. “a truly quirky, funny, and touching performance which had me totally enthralled throughout…”

“The two female performers/devisers were totally encapsulating, with an incredible connection with each other which made the story flow completely. Both are evidently highly skilled in physical and facial comedy… Fantastic fun” TWO LASSES IN LONDON “Genuinely can’t remember the last time I laughed so much” ★★★★★ STAGEDOOR £9.00

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

Thursday July 18 & Friday July 19 – 7.30pm

14yrs+

60min

HAL CRUTTENDEN (EDINBURGH PREVIEW) Last year’s smash hit show is back (and slightly updated) by popular demand.

Hal has literally filled our screens on such shows as Have I Got News For You, Live At The Apollo, The Apprentice: You’re Fired and Bake Off: Extra Slice.

His daughters chose the title of the show and he’s still on a diet…

Limited run.

“The funniest he’s ever been” ★★★★ THE TIMES “On top form” ★★★★★ EDINBURGH EVENING NEWS “He had the audience in stitches” ★★★★★ DAILY RECORD “His finest hour to date” ★★★★ THE TELEGRAPH

£12.00 (Concession £10.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 20 – 9.30pm

16yrs+

60min

comedy

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

HARRY & CHRIS Playing together in various forms for over 10 years, World Poetry Slam Champion Harry Baker teams up with BFF/Jazz Musician Chris Read as the imaginatively titled ‘Harry and Chris’.

After sell-out runs of their 2016 and 2017 shows at the Edinburgh Fringe, Harry Baker and Chris Read have been featured on ‘The Russell Howard Hour’ (Sky) and tour regularly around the UK. Making comedy-jazz-rap a thing, their songs range from panda repopulation to coming of age to Robot Wars, and they bring love and laughter to a world that needs both more than ever.

“Amazing, fabulously entertaining” JONATHAN ROSS “A wonderful blend of infectious songs packed with sharp, clever wordplay… Harry and Chris’ family friendly set leaves the audience with a smile on their face and the catchy tunes stuck in their head for the rest of the day.” ★★★★★ THE SUNDAY POST “The numbers are upbeat and feel-good, and all of them are about surprising and inventive subjects or points of view.” ★★★★★ FRINGE GURU

£11.00 (Concession £9.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Tuesday July 16 – 7.30pm

14yrs+

60min

HELL TO PLAY: RESURRECTION Hell To Play is a game show set in Hell, hosted by the Devil. Audiences compete in games set by those who have sold their souls to Satan. The prize? A chance to save themselves from the eternal fire…

This year’s Hell To Play features an all new cast of unfortunates and villains, all of whom belong to the prince of darkness.

Do you like bad-taste jokes? Do you like silliness?

Do you like interactive, stupid devil nonsense? Then Hell To Play may be for you “Hugely fun: a very silly, very funny show” ★★★★ THE STAGE “Great fun – Excellent performers doing high quality dicking about” STUART GOLDSMITH, THE COMEDIANS COMEDIAN £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Sunday July 21 – 9.00pm

18yrs+

55min

IT JUST SO HAPPENED In this alternative history show four panellists each deliver a short stand-up comedy set based around an event which happened on the same date as the show at some point in history. They then get together to speculate on possible alternative causes and outcomes to other events which have happened in history – specifically the history of Bedford and Bedfordshire – like ‘it just so happened’.

This show is also going to be recorded as a podcast and is hosted by comedian Richard Pulsford.

As seen at the Leicester and Glasgow Comedy Festivals, and Brighton and Buxton Fringes 2019.

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Monday July 22 –7.30pm

14yrs+

60min 11

comedy

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

IVO GRAHAM: THE GAME OF LIFE

JACOB HAWLEY: FALARIKI (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

The time for faff is over: has Big Daddy Graham got the skillz (anecdotes / banter / topical asides) to pay da billz (gas / water / electric)?

More hilariously anxious blather from one of the most hilariously anxious blatherers in the business.

As spotted on Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, Live From The BBC, Cats Does Countdown, Richard Osman’s House of Games, Roast Battle, Hypothetical, The Stand Up Sketch Show, The Now Show, Fighting Talk.

“A hugely enjoyable hour of stand-up comedy” ★★★★ THE TIMES “On the brink of comedy’s Premier League” ★★★★ EVENING STANDARD

Stevenage soft-lad Jacob Hawley presents ruminations on love, youth and running away.

“Intelligent and important, his self-aware set sees him explore themes of class and identity in the modern world expertly” ★★★★ THE SUNDAY POST “A down-to-earth talent who’s got it in spades, it’s an impressive, strong debut show” ★★★★ THE LIST “A mature, sharp wit, a relaxed manner and an undertow of political passion… Clever, and different” BRUCE DESSAU “Mocks blind patriotism in an enjoyably offbeat way. Nicely Wry” CHORTLE After reaching the finals of the BBC New Comedy Award, writing and starring in numerous shorts for BBC3 and featuring on Radio 4 and Talksport, Jacob Hawley has become a critically acclaimed newvoice in comedy after his debut show Howl premiered at The Edinburgh Fringe in 2018.

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Thursday July 18 – 9.00pm

12

14yrs+

60min

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Sunday July 21 – 7.30pm

14yrs+

60min

comedy

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

JAMES PHELAN: TRICKSTER Following his sell-out 201718 tour, viral sensation James Phelan, presents his unique magical prank show that is both jaw-dropping and laugh out loud funny.

Described in The Daily Mirror as ‘extraordinary’, and as ‘legendary’ by The Sun – come and see why James (the nephew of the late great Paul Daniels) has quickly solidified himself as the most anticipated magical performer in a generation.

He presents a night of hilarious, mind-blowing magic in a show where anything can happen – and quite often does! People are tricked, phones are destroyed, needles are swallowed – no-one is safe.

“Without a doubt one of the most exciting new acts of the year” PRINCES TRUST “James has a real cheeky charm!” RADIO TIMES “James was incredible. Maybe magic does exist?’”

SIMON COWELL £12.00 (Concession £10.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Tuesday July 16 – 7.30pm

JAN RAVENS: WHO DO I THINK I AM? (EDINBURGH PREVIEW) Jan Ravens is bestknown as the star of BBC’s Dead Ringers.

Her Theresa May impression has achieved cult status, getting over one million YouTube hits.

Fan favourites include Fiona Bruce, Diane Abbott and Laura Kuenssberg.

In a soul-baring new show, Jan weaves her critically acclaimed impressions into an exploration of what it feels like to be a professional impostor with impostor syndrome.

Following two total sell-out runs, Who Do I Think I Am? combines razor-sharp satire with Jan’s own bittersweet backstory.

“World class” THE TIMES Book early! £12.00 (Concession £10.00)

14yrs+

60min

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 20 – 6.00pm

14yrs+

60min

JOHN HASTINGS: 10 JOHN HASTINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

JONNY & THE BAPTISTS: LOVE BEDFORD & HATE BASTARDS

John Hastings: 10 John Hastings I Hate About You – Comedy Central’s John Hastings started from the bottom (Canada), then moved to the bottom (Britain), and has found a new bottom (America).

Currently bottoming out, John is back to talk about the highs (read: none) and lows (read: many) of the past year.

From losing his grandfather to open relationships to borrowing money from his mom, come watch John hit rock bottom both figuratively and literally in his dream basement venue. TW(ats welcome): Mega LOLz and most likely toilet humour. ★★★★★ THE MIRROR ★★★★ CHORTLE ★★★★ THE HERALD ★★★★★ FRESH AIR ★★★★★ BROADWAY BABY

We live in a divided world, and we want to cross that divide. But how can we be popular now ‘populist’ means ‘I’m a sh*t’? Answer: WE LOVE EVERYONE. Oh, except bastards. Everyone hates bastards, right? We agree.

Multi-award nominated* musical-activist-comedians, Jonny & The Baptists, are sick of being political and divisive. This show is about how everything is definitely fine. Everyone’s happy!

Let’s just get along!

“Excellent” ★★★★ THE GUARDIAN “Wickedly funny” ★★★★ THE TIMES “Lovely” ★★★★ THE SCOTSMAN “Superbly crafted” ★★★★ METRO “Disgraceful” ★★★ TELEGRAPH (bastards) *We’ve lost 5 times and won no times.”

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Thursday July 18 – 7.30pm

£10.00 (Concession £8.00) 14yrs+

60min

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Tuesday July 23 – 7.30pm

16yrs+

60min 13

comedy

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

JOHN ROBERTSON’S THE DARK ROOM

JODY KAMALI IS MIKE DALY: DARTS AND ALL Bristol’s bumbling exdarts champ is back.

A calamitous Q&A and whirlwind journey into the soul of an idiot.

The beer-swigging, piemunching fallen star is setting the record straight in this off-beat physical/character comedy show.

Best known for his high-energy physical comedy shows and viral-internet character Terry the Odd Job Man becoming a mini-celebrity in his home town of Bristol and selling out some of Bristol's largest venues.

Jody has also worked with Harry Hill on the madcap TV project Harry Hill’s Tea Time, and alongside Bernard Hill in the film Golden Years.

“Kamali is hugely inventive, warm and engaging” TOTAL THEATRE “Brilliant, original visual comedy” HARRY HILL £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Friday July 19 – 7.30pm

12yrs+

60min

The Bedfringe favourite returns!

Dare you enter… The Dark Room?

“Watching audiences attempt to tackle the challenge and fail is one of the funniest sights around, don’t miss it” DAILY TELEGRAPH You awake to find yourself in a Dark Room! You, the audience, are trapped in an interactive, retro gaming nightmare; choose an option, find the way out, and escape The Dark Room! If you succeed, you’ll take home £10.0000… but if you fail YOU WILL DIE! For you are not alone in The Dark Room; the merciless overlord of improv, John Robertson, is here to guide you through an hour of expertly crafted chaos and anarchy. And in the end, eeeeeverybody plays!

So will you: A) Find the Light Switch? B) Go North? C) Abandon Hope?

“Not to be missed” THE GUARDIAN “The Dark Room is utterly unique” ★★★★★ THE SKINNY “You must see this show” ★★★★★ BRITISH COMEDY GUIDE “Genuinely, irresistibly dangerous” ★★★★ THE STAGE £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

14yrs+

Friday July 26 – 9.00pm

60min

JOHN ROBERTSON: UNTITLED_ NERD_SHOW.JPG

JULIETTE BURTON: DEFINED (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

John Robertson (The Dark Room, Videogame Nation) was beaten up at school for liking Star Trek. And goddammit, those kids were right. So, now, 20 years later, he takes his revenge. On himself. The internet has bred a generation of nerds who take fun things far, far too seriously, so it’s time for a proper geek to tear the hell out of the things you like.

Prepare for an hour of jokes about all your interests – Game of Thrones, sports, politics, sex, videogames, trains, anime, Harry Potter, the endless, endless, endless amount of superhero films – whatever it is, chances are you love something too much and deserve to be mocked.

“A splendid comedy beast” ★★★★ THE SCOTSMAN “This is astute, amoral comedy for the morbidly inclined” ★★★★★ BROADWAY WORLD ★★★★★ THREE WEEKS “Don’t miss it” DAILY TELEGRAPH

Award-winning comedian Juliette is full of contradictions: pessimistic optimist? Introverted extrovert? Successful failure?

Masculine or feminine? Happy or sad? Mentally ill or healthy? Why must we choose one or the other?

After a year of huge change, Juliette had to redefine her life, labels and herself. Everything she thought was steadfast has vanished. Can she be everything at once? Or must we choose how we are defined? Total Edfringe sold out shows 2015/16/17/18.

“Burton drips with charm – joyous” THE TIMES “Burton shows the world it’s cool to be kind” THE SUNDAY MAIL ★★★★★ DAILY MIRROR ★★★★★ EDFEST MAGAZINE

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 27 – 9.00pm 14

16yrs+

60min

£11.00 (Concession £9.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Wednesday July 17 – 7.30pm

14yrs+

60min+interval

comedy

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

LAUGHS WITH TRICKS

LOL: AN EVENING WITH NOREEN KHAN Noreen Khan brings the Lads of Laughter for a Bedfringe Special.

Join Noreen Khan (BBC Asian Network) as she hosts a night of comedy with some of the UK’s favourite acts.

Acts on the night: Noreen Khan, Eshaan Akbar, Hyde Panaser, Nabil Abdul Rashid

£15.00

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Friday July 19 – 7.30pm

Comedy magician Stu Turner and ventriloquist Phil Reid come together for an hour of stand-up, magic, and variety. Stu’s offbeat act is sometimes silly, sometimes surreal, but always baffling and highly entertaining. Phil is a warm and vibrant comedian with a natural storytelling ability.

This two man show combines traditional stand-up comedy, with baffling and hilarious magic, and ventriloquism with audience participation. The pair have over two decades of experience between them, and have both worked all round the country in comedy clubs, cabaret, and theatre.

“Thoroughly entertaining show” HENLEY HERALD “A definite hit. A must see” SHAFTESBURY FRINGE “Stu manages to combine jokes and magic effortlessly and to great effect” PUN RUN “Creates wave upon wave of laughter and provides welcome variety” MOCK TUDOR COMEDY “Engaging, clever, funny. A crowd pleaser” THE CULT OF COMEDY £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

16yrs+

120min+interval

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

16yrs+

Saturday July 20 & Sunday July 21 – 6.00pm

60min

LAURA LEXX: KNEE JERK (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

MAUREEN YOUNGER: OUT OF SYNC (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

Star of Live at the Apollo, Laura Lexx is a “bouncy, bubbly stand up star” TELEGRAPH, shining a hilarious light on how hard it is to be a good person these days. Can you change the world without offending anyone?

Her sell-out 2018 show “Trying”, was “a masterpiece” ★★★★★ VOICE and earned her a prestigious Comedian’s Choice Award.

Now, Lexx takes on society’s big issues… but come for jokes not answers.

It’s sure to be “stomach-achingly funny” ★★★★ ENTERTAINMENT FOCUS “another skilfully-constructed hour from an underrated performer” ★★★★ FEST

Bedfringe Director’s Choice!

Maureen Younger is feeling at odds with the world.

It doesn’t help that she’s the only straight white woman that performs on the urban and gay comedy circuits, or that she is enthralled with Austrian and German literature. Is it time to fit in or just revel in your own eccentricity?

Join Maureen as she celebrates being unapologetically true to yourself, even if it means being Out of Sync.

“Funny and infectious” TIME OUT “Engaging and funny” THREE WEEKS “Hilarious” THE VOICE “Confident and assured” DIVA MAGAZINE “Quick, raw, emotional and hysterically funny” LFEST Hackney Empire New Act of the Year Finalist

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Wednesday July 17 – 7.30pm

16yrs+

60min

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

Wednesday July 24 – 9.00pm

18yrs+

60min 15

comedy

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

MITCH BENN: TEN SONGS TO SAVE THE WORLD

OLEG DENISOV: RUSSIAN TROLL

One broken world and ten funny songs to fix it. From BBC Radio 4’s “Now Show” to his column in the New European, Mitch spreads insight and laughs in equal measure. Join the “country’s leading musical satirist” (The Times) as, with six string in hand and a head full of silly rhymes, he identifies the problems and proposes (semi-serious) solutions.

“Song after song of exquisitely crafted satire” THE SCOTSMAN “Well crafted lyrics, catchy tunes and a charismatic performer.

What more could you ask for?” LEICESTER MERCURY “Undoubted skill as a musician and delightfully cutting wit” ONE4REVIEW “A seriously talented laugh-maker, musician and satirist. He’s Britain’s answer to Tom Lehrer” THE SWINDONIAN “Well crafted, well sung, his songs are just plain funny” THE GUARDIAN £11.00 (Concession £9.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 27 – 7.30pm

14yrs+

60min

Days of myths, fairy tales and privacy are gone.

We know all the data, now how do we live with each other? And can people actually build a life together based on anything else than shared delusions?

Russia’s Fringe veteran of political comedy and philosopher by training, Oleg, presents a new show about fake news and freedom of speech, magical realism and transitional capitalism, global politics and dysfunctional relationships.

“Razor-sharp insight and rapid-fire laughs” MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS “Denisov is quick-fire funny and leads you along some curious byways with shocks and surprises on the way!” THE SCOTSMAN “Top satirical stand-up… highly intelligent” CHORTLE “Impressive… enjoyable and interesting hour” THE LIST £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Monday July 22 – 9.00pm

16yrs+

60min

PATRICK MONAHAN: STARTED FROM THE BOTTOM NOW I’M HERE! (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

PAUL FOOT: BABY STRIKES BACK! (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

Brand new stand-up show from multi award winning Irish Iranian comedian Patrick Monahan.

Patrick was born in Ahvaz in Iran, with Persian, Arab and Irish roots.

His family travelled from the Middle East to the North East of England in 1980.

Always living an immigrant working class life. Eating rice every day, no alcohol, traditionally raised Iranian and they couldn’t afford any family holidays. The only time Patrick & his family went abroad was the once which was to the UK from Iran in 1980 and his family never left since.

Flash forward two decades and Patrick now has an upper middle class Partner. Her family holiday regularly and work in the high end Art world.

Laugh and cry at Patrick’s crazy, confused, fast changing life as he compares living as a poor working class immigrant to this last year of his life living with his upper middle class girlfriend and skiing for the first time in his life…

Paul, now a fully-disqualified swan psychologist, delves deeper to discover the origins of the gay sperms and once again unleashes his bag of Disturbances. Baby has a plan.

Baby never lose. Baby bounce back!

“Sublime, original and brilliant” INDEPENDENT “A deranged genius” SYDNEY MORNING HERALD “A Sheer tour de farce” EDFEST MAG “Utterly outlandish, but beneath layers of absurdity is Foot’s sharp eye for satire” TIME OUT Recent TV and radio appearances include “Breaking The News”, BBC Radio Scotland, “The Infinite Monkey Cage” (BBC Radio 4), “Never Mind The Buzzcocks” (BBC2), “Would I Lie To You” (BBC 1), “8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown” (Channel 4), “8 Out of 10 Cats” (Channel 4), “Set List” (Sky Atlantic), “The Alternative Comedy Experience” (Comedy Central).

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

£12.00 (Concession £10.00)

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 27 – 7.30pm 16

13yrs+

60min

£12.00 (Concession £10.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

Friday July 26 – 9.00pm

14yrs+

60min

comedy

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

PETE FIRMAN (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

POLICE COPS: BADASS BE THY NAME (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

The UK’s leading comedy magician returns to Bedfringe with his latest critically acclaimed live show.

He’s made dozens of television appearances, including ITV1’s ‘The Next Great Magician’ and ‘Tonight at the London Palladium’, as well as BBC1’s ‘Comic Relief’ and ‘The John Bishop Show’.

Expect Pete’s trademark blend of crowd-pleasing comedy and jaw-dropping magic. ★★★★★ TIME OUT ★★★★★ MIRROR ★★★★ THE SCOTSMAN ★★★★ METRO “The best magic tricks in the universe” ★★★★ THE INDEPENDENT “The new poster-boy for British comedy magic” THE TELEGRAPH “The man from Middlesbrough sets the pace for comedy-meetsmagic in the 21st century” THE TIMES

Hot off the back of total sell-out runs at Edinburgh Fringe 2016, 2017, 2018 and Soho Theatre, London; multi award-winning company Police Cops bring you their latest comedy blockbuster: Badass Be Thy Name.

Gritty northern town: 1999. A kitchen sink drama turns into a vampireslaying horror epic. Complete with a 90s rave soundtrack, supercharged physical comedy and more vampires that you can shake a stake at.

Winners: Amused Moose Comedy Award 2018 ★★★★★ EDINBURGH FESTIVALS MAGAZINE “I paid £12.00, I would have paid £13.00” DARA Ó BRIAIN “Unbeatable physical cop parody” ★★★★★ THE STAGE “The juggernaut of cheesy parody” ★★★★★ EDINBURGH FESTIVALS MAGAZINE “The best comedy show of 2015″ ★★★★★ THE NEW CURRENT

£12.00 (Concession £10.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 20 – 8.00pm

£10.00 (Concession £8.00) 12yrs+

60min

ROBIN BOOT’S ROCKOMEDY: PUNDERSTRUCK

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Wednesday July 24 – 7.30pm

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Thursday July 25 – 7.30pm

14yrs+

60min

60min

RICHARD STOTT: RIGHT HAND MAN (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

After a sell-out show at Bedfringe in 2018 (and then going on to do the same in Edinburgh), the wild man of musical comedy, and Bedford favourite, returns with his new show this July.

Expect more rock ‘n’ roll hilarity with c lever wordplay, surreal themes and blistering guitar-work.

Voted one of the top three new comedians of 2016 (LastMinuteComedy.com) “Big presence, big delivery, big laughs” PAUL REVILL, CASTLE COMEDY “Hilarious and always a favourite with the crowd” JOHN WILDGOOSE, FOUNDER OF INTO THE WILD FESTIVAL “The Springsteen of comedy” G&B COMEDY “This guy cracks me up” CHARLOTTE BRIERE, THAT’S TV “One-man pun machine” CHRISTIAN O’CONNELL, ABSOLUTE RADIO £11.00 (Concession £9.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

14yrs+

A debut show from a comedian who was born with Poland Syndrome making him lopsided with a misshapen hand.

Following life changing surgery he now has toes for fingers on his left hand and in this unflinchingly honest show he examines body image, mental health and being disabled in an image-obsessed world.

An hour of anarchic storytelling and acidic punchlines exploring how he has learnt to roll with the hand life dealt him and draw humour from what we are told is humourless.

“Heart-wrenchingly moving and unquestionably funny…I defy anyone not to be enthralled” EVENING STANDARD

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

Wednesday July 24 – 7.30pm

14yrs+

60min 17

comedy

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

SASHA ELLEN: NO MAN’S LAND In 2010, the island of Herm, a mile long body of land and the smallest island of the Channel Islands, declared a state of emergency. Helicopters went up. Divers went down. It was all Sasha’s fault. A storytelling, stand-up show about how Sasha brought a part of the world to a halt. If only for one day. A friendly rom-com about an engagement, a missing person and a near catastrophe which explores love, loss and the pitfalls of drinking.

“Rife with cheeky humour… upfront and witty” ★★★★ BROADWAY BABY “Genuinely fresh” ★★★★ THE SCOTSMAN “Honest, hilarious and horrifying… the comedy future looks good for Ellen” CANAL-ST “Always engaging” CHORTLE ★★★★ THE MUMBLE “Bittersweet, honest and truthful romantic comedy with emotional heart” ★★★★ EDINBURGH GUIDE £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Thursday July 25 – 9.00pm

16yrs+

60min

SIMON BRODKIN: LET ME INTRODUCE MYSELF (EDINBURGH PREVIEW)

SCOTTISH FALSETTO SOCK PUPPET THEATRE: ROLL UP! Roll up! Roll up!

Earth’s funniest footwear – winners of the Bath Comedy Festival Best Joke Award 2018 – are back with their brand new show of Comedy Magic Variety and a Bit On The SideShow. The roar of the greasepaint and the smell of some socks.

This is the Scottish Falsetto Socks’ 11th brand new show, and if you’ve never seen them before, now’s your chance to see the legends in full comic action.

“Space age comedy to knock your socks off” ★★★★ DAILY RECORD “Had every single audience member… laughing until they cried.” ★★★★★ EDINBURGH EVENING NEWS £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 20 – 9.15pm

14yrs+

60min

SIMON MUNNERY: ALAN PARKER URBAN WARRIOR’S FAREWELL TOUR (WIP)

You may know him as ‘legend’ Lee Nelson or as the ‘unfunny pillock’ who gave Theresa May a P45, but you won’t know him as ‘tiny Jew’ Simon Brodkin.

After three series of Lee Nelson on the BBC, multiple TV appearances (Live at the Apollo, Sunday Night at The Palladium, C4’s Comedy Gala), and several world-famous stunts on the likes of Donald Trump, Kanye West and Sepp Blatter, Simon unveils his funniest persona yet; himself.

In this ‘debut’ show, the award-winning comedian takes us from his childhood growing up on the mean streets of Hampstead Village, to his adulthood as a failed doctor, inept parent and fairly rubbish Jew. “So sharp you could slash a tyre with it” THE DAILY TELEGRAPH “Comedy legend” THE SUN “The guy has a gift” THE WASHINGTON POST “Never less than ingenious” THE TIMES “Hottest creation since Ali G and Vicky Pollard.” DAILY MIRROR “Get him out!” DONALD TRUMP

A work in progress show!

Come and be part of the development process of this Edinburgh preview!

Once the most radical, now the only radical.

The bedsit anarchist returns with the old gold, the old truths, and some new truths (based on the old truths).

“Gloriously inept” THE TIMES

£12.00 (Concession £10.00)

£5.00

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Thursday July 18 – 7.30pm 18

16yrs+

60min

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 27 – 6.00pm

14yrs+

60min

comedy

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

SPONTANEOUS POTTER Grab your wands, don your house robes, and apparate yourselves to the box office!

A very magical improv show awaits…

The smash hit Spontaneous Potter is an entirely improvised Harry Potter comedy play, based on an audience suggestion of a fanfiction title. Hilarity ensues as an entirely new Potter adventure is magically improvised on the spot – with live musical accompaniment!

Previous titles performed include: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Commerce Harry Potter and the Neville Wears Prada Harry Potter and the Rise of the Planet of the Snapes Note: Spontaneous Potter is an unofficial show that is not endorsed by or affiliated with Warner Bros., JK Rowling or her publishers. All rights to the Harry Potter books and associated trademarks are the property of JK Rowling / her publishers. All film / image rights associated with the film series are property of Warner Bros.

“An ingenious, laugh out loud show… perfect for Potterheads and muggles alike” ★★★★★ EDINBURGH GUIDE “Flawlessly executed improv comedy… pure, unadulterated hilarity” ★★★★★ EDFRINGE REVIEW

£11.00 (Concession £9.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Monday July 22 – 7.30pm

16yrs+

60min

STEPHEN BUCHANAN: BABY DOVE (EDINBURGH PREVIEW) Winner of the prestigious BBC New Comedy Award 2018 and the reigning Scottish Comedian of the Year, Stephen Buchanan brings his much anticipated debut hour to the Fringe.

Expect sharp story-telling and offbeat observations, as the 27 year-old delves into the reality of living at home with his mum and a refugee.

As seen and heard on BBC Scotland, The Now Show (Radio 4), The DriveTime Show (Radio 2), Arts Hour (BBC World Service).

“Skilful, personal and pitch perfect stand-up” ★★★★★ THE WEE REVIEW “A must-see for fans of quality stand-up” ★★★★½ THE ADELAIDE ADVERTISER £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Tuesday July 16 – 9.00pm

14yrs+

60min

VIKKI STONE: SONGBIRD (EDINBURGH PREVIEW) Multi award-winning comedian and musician Vikki Stone (“Musical genuis” Absolute Radio) returns with an all new show of her trademark comedy songs and stand up.

As seen and heard on BBC Radio 4’s The Now Show, BBC One’s John Bishop Show and the BBC Proms Podcast.

“The lovechild of Victoria Wood and Tim Minchin” ★★★★ THE SCOTSMAN ★★★★ THREE WEEKS ★★★★ SUNDAY HERALD ★★★★ BROADWAY BABY Best New Show Nominee Leicester Comedy Festival 2019 £11.00 (Concession £9.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Friday July 26 – 7.15pm

WESELE / WEDDING Welcome to the last Polish/English wedding before the borders close, where you, the audience, play the role of the wedding guests led by a charismatic Mistress of Ceremonies. Before restrictions on mixed marriages are be implemented – it’s keep calm and party on!

Wesele / Wedding is an immersive one woman show, made in the European tradition of absurdist political comedy. This collage of integration stories, raunchy wedding rituals and disco polo singalongs, peppered with Polish and Esperanto, interrogates the role of traditional values, family bonds and whether popular culture can bring us together. Join us on the dance floor after the show for a Polish disco (disco polo) party!

£10.00 14yrs+

60min

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

Friday July 19 & Saturday July 20 – 9.00pm

18yrs+

75min 19

theatre

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

AUDACIOUS MR ASTLEY (EDINBURGH PREVIEW

THE BRIDE TO BE

With his wife (and bee-wrangler) as co-performer, war hero and trick-rider Phillip Astley roped off a ring in an open field in Lambeth, London, and on Easter Monday in 1768 wowed crowds with astounding displays of equestrian expertise. Building on this early success, the couple added a clown, rope-walkers and acrobats to their presentation, and the circus was born.

Writer and actor Chris Barltrop has toured the world as a circus ringmaster for over 40 years, appearing in two Royal Variety Performances and spending seven years on tour with the legendary Moscow State Circus.

Premiered on the 250th anniversary of the first circus, on the very spot where that event took place, Barltrop’s play has toured the UK to much acclaim.

“Fascinating…engaging” ★★★★★ BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE “Entertaining, informative, classy!”

LIZ ARRATOON / THE WIDOW STANTON

Tues & Thurs £10.00 (Conc £8.00), wed £8 (Conc £6)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

8yrs+

Tues July 16, 9.00pm, Wed July 17, 4.00pm & Thurs July 18, 6.00pm 45min

20

You are hereby cordially invited to the wedding of Angela and Simon…

Pull up a pew, bring a hanky, and expect to be immersed as wedding guests in Peter Quilter’s “The Bride To Be.” Witness the struggles first hand as unlucky Angela prepares for marriage number three, while her brother Toby helps to settle her nerves. Will it be third time lucky for Angela?

Does loveless Toby really know what’s best for his sister. Will Angela make the right decision?

If anyone can show just cause why this couple cannot lawfully be joined together in matrimony, let them speak now or forever hold their peace.”

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Sunday July 21 – 2.00pm

10yrs+

60min

theatre

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

IT’S BRITNEY, BITCHES!

BROKEN FLOWERS

‘It’s Britney, Bitches!’ is a new verbatim piece about the fans of international superstar Britney Spears. LEAVE BRITNEY ALONE! This show follows the stories of Britney’s fans and the impact she has on our lives, along with some of your favourite songs! Stories of coming out, addiction and abuse and most importantly, Britney Spears.

Roy is a cynical, hotheaded florist who finds himself repeatedly reliving his break-up with long-term girlfriend Rosie. After uttering the infamous break-up line – “it’s not you, it’s me.”

Roy becomes fixated with finding ever elaborate ways of ending their relationship, until he realises that his one solution to breaking the cycle might be to look at his own actions and do the one thing he finds more difficult than anything else – telling the truth.

Funny, surprising and touching, be prepared for floral assaults, nosey neighbours and outrageous attempts at breaking up when love is on the battlefield.

“A beautifully formed comedy in a nutshell” ★★★★ LONDON PUB THEATRES Previous winners of Cambridge and Welwyn Drama Festivals, NDFA Audience Award Winners

£9.00

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

£10.00

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

14yrs+

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

12yrs+

Monday July 22 - Thursday July 25 – 9.00pm

60min

Tuesday July 16 & Wednesday July 17 – 9.00pm

50min

BULL

CHOICE GRENFELL

Three people are called to a meeting with their boss. One of them is going to be fired. In the course of an hour, we see the nasty, brutish side of workplace politics as two candidates gang up on the other. Where does the line between banter and bullying lie and how far would you go to be successful?

Three people, two jobs, now would be a really bad time to have a stain in your jacket…

A visceral examination of office life in a climate of austerity.

“A gem of a new play… chillingly evokes the dynamics of bullying, in school, the work place, and elsewhere” WHATSONSTAGE.COM “Sinewy, stinging, witty… it’s as if Bartlett has taken the nastiest needling from a Mamet or a Pinter play and put them into a space of pure verbal aggression” THE TIMES “Short, slick and emotionally unflinching… delivers a decisive punch” THE STAGE “Bull taps into something incredibly relevant and potent” EXEUNT MAGAZINE Winner: Best New Play – UK Theatre Awards, 2013

£10.00 (Conc £8.00) Mon & Tuesday £8.00 (Conc £6.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Sat July 20, 2pm; Sun July 21, 4pm; Mon July 22 & Tues July 23, 6pm

18yrs+

60min

Kick In The Head are proud to present a celebration of the 40th anniversary of the loss of the great, unremittingly genteel, comedienne and monologist, Joyce Grenfell.

Choice Grenfell is a wonderful tribute featuring some of the best of Joyce’s hilarious songs and monologues from Stately as a Galleon and School Nativity Play to A Terrible Worrier and First Flight.

We are delighted that the family of William Blezard have allowed us access to previously unpublished rehearsal recordings and personal letters from Joyce allowing a unique insight into the queen of comediennes.

As Joyce would have said: “We request the pleasure of your company.”

With Suzanne Walters as Joyce Grenfell and Andrew D Brewis as William Blezard.

Additional material written by Simon Downing.

Sketches by Joyce Grenfell are presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH LTD, a Concord Theatricals Company. “tremendously funny and totally on the ball” THE TELEGRAPH £10.00

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

10yrs+

Saturday July 20 & Sunday July 21 – 7.30pm

60min 21

theatre

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

COMEDY OF ERRORS SE Theatre Company travel from Shakespeare’s hometown in Stratford-upon-Avon to bring one of the Bard’s earliest and most farcical comedies to The Place theatre outdoor stage.

The Comedy of Errors tells the story of two sets of identical twins who were accidentally separated at birth. Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant, Dromio of Syracuse, travel to Ephesus, which turns out to be the home of their twin brothers, Antipholus of Ephesus and his servant, Dromio of Ephesus.

What follows is a series of wild, hilarious mishaps based on mistaken identities that lead to near-seductions, arrests, false accusations of infidelity, theft, madness, and even demonic possession.

This production combines the comical nature of the text, with immersive live music and the warmth of a Summer evening to bring to the stage a Shakespearean production unlike any other.

THE DUCK

£10.00 (Conc £8.00) Family ticket: £30.00 (max two adults)

Pick of Bedfringe Winners 2017 A funny and moving new onewoman play written by autistic writer and poet, Rhi LloydWilliams. The Duck is an exploration of one woman’s world after she is diagnosed with autism. Starring Lucy Theobald, and Directed by Jo Loyn, prepare to be washed this way and that as you follow the tangential threads through her mind.

Imagine you spent your whole life believing everyone was pretending to be someone else; that the mask you had constructed was the same as everyone else’s, only to discover yours is the only mask.

Imagine you are the swan who instead of finding your place in the world, built a duck-mask and learnt to waddle.

Audience responses: “This was a fast-paced, frenetic, funny, intelligent, occasionally sad, incredibly engaging and informative performance. This is the sort of autistic performance that I want to see.”

“Lucy’s energetic acting and Rhi’s writing combine wonderfully so whether you yourself have autism, you have family members with autism, this is well worth a watch – a great experience.” £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

8yrs+

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Tuesday July 16 – Saturday July 20 – 7.00pm

120min+interval

THE PLACE THEATRE OUTDOOR STAGE

FORGET ME NOT: THE ALZHEIMER’S WHODUNNIT

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

Saturday July 20 – 4.00pm 22

Saturday July 27 – 4.30pm

12yrs+

50min

GOBBY

The one-man murder mystery now being used to train NHS staff.

Jim’s wife, a patient on a dementia ward, has died from what appears to be natural causes. Jim is a retired police detective and he smells a rat.

He’s determined to solve one last murder. The problem is he also has dementia. It’s a case worthy of the greatest detective mind. But his will have to do.

Written and performed by comic, poet and psych nurse Rob Gee. Fresh from an award-winning tour of the US and Canada: “Hilarious and heart-breaking” ★★★★★ VICTORIA TIMES “Smart, witty and razor-sharp” ★★★★★ CANADIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION “Wonderful!” ★★★★★ THEATRE IN LONDON “This one-man triumph is equal parts mystery, comedy, storytelling, social commentary – and 100% entertaining.” ★★★★★ WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

14yrs+

60min

Five parties.

One big mouth.

A biting and heartfelt odyssey about what it really means to be loud.

Gobby is a playlist of awkward encounters, starting over and growing up.

This new play by Jodie Irvine (Soho Young Company, The Second City) is a darkly comic telling of survival, and a lesson in how to throw a really good party.

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Friday July 26 – 3.30pm & Saturday July 27 – 2.30pm

16yrs+

60min

theatre

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

HAMLET: AN EXPERIENCE

THE HANDLEBARDS: THE TEMPEST

After breaking new ground with their award-winning Richard III (A One Woman Show), Brite Theater are once again reinventing Shakespearean performance with their adaptation of Hamlet directed by Kolbrun Bjort Sigfusdottir.

Emily Carding plays Hamlet and you, the audience, are the players arriving at Elsinore.

Hamlet needs your help to take on the roles of his friends and family and resolve the great questions of life. Journey through the play together and become immersed in the story like never before.

Hamlet has the questions. Do you have the answers?

Nominated for several awards at Prague and Edinburgh Fringe, Hamlet (an experience) was one of the winners of the Fringe Encore Series and had a successful run at the Soho Playhouse offBroadway in November 2018.

“Sigfusdottir’s adaptation and Carding’s sensitive interpretation provide a shortcut to the empathy that many Hamlets crave but seldom achieve.” ★★★★ THE STAGE

The world’s first cycling theatre company, The HandleBards, pedal from venue to venue with all the set, props and costume necessary to perform environmentally sustainable Shakespeare across the globe.

Join their all-female troupe at Bedfringe for a bicycle-powered production of Shakespeare’s ’The Tempest’ like none other. In usual HandleBards style, expect riotous amounts of energy, a fair old whack of chaos, and a great deal of laughter.

Bring your own chair or blanket to sit on and dress for the weather!

“Explodes with energy and is a genuine treat from start to finish.” ★★★★★ THE STAGE “There is not a single HandleBard who is anything less than magnificent.” ★★★★★ THE WEE REVIEW “There is never a moment when the audience is not laughing.” ★★★★★ BROADWAY BABY “A hilarious, heart-felt, high-octane show.” ★★★★★YOUNG PERSPECTIVE

THE PLACE THEATRE STUDIO

14yrs+

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 20 & Sunday July 21 – 6pm & 8pm

60min

£10.00

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

THE QUARRY THEATRE GARDEN

Friday July 19 – 6.30pm

Suitable for all ages

120min+interval

HOLY LAND

HEARING LOSS: THE MUSICAL “There’s no humour in having so many tumours”… Tom GK’s hearing is going out with a bang! Former Daily Telegraph music critic and criticallyacclaimed storyteller combines laughter, song and genetic disease in this vaudevillian biography.

Returning from a successful run at the Perth and Adelaide Fringes, where the show received national radio attention, Tom GK arrives in Bedford just days before his Edinburgh run begins. This is your chance to discover this extraordinary, life-affirming and top-tapping tale ahead of the pack.

A songwriter at age five, fronting bands by 16 (one genuinely called Miss Marple) and reviewing Bob Dylan and, well, Keane by 21, hearing loss was always a nightmare for Tom GK… Now it’s hilarious.

“A deft way with storytelling” WEST AUSTRALIAN “Comedy sensation” KIDS IN ADELAIDE “Big things are waiting for him” ★★★★ WEEKENDNOTES.COM “Hilarious… will leave you singing for joy” ★★★★ FOURTH WALL £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE PLACE THEATRE STUDIO

£12.00 (Concession £10.00)

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

12yrs+

Wednesday July 24 - Friday July 25 – 5.30pm

60min

‘You ever do anything again, And I will follow you to the end of the world.

Like a ghost.

Like your dead ancestors…

The world is on fire.’

Jon has just lost his daughter.

Tim can’t leave his office.

Kate is just trying to get through the day.

Three stories of online escapism and revolt interweave in this new show from Elegy. Fusing together multimedia, vivid new writing and spoken word Holy Land is an excavation of the dark side of the internet and human nature.

Who is really accountable for what happens, how little control do we have and how much more can we take?

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

16yrs+

Sun July 21 3.45pm, Mon July 22 9pm, Tues July 23 5.45pm & Weds July 24 5.45pm 75min 23

theatre

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

Join the conversation

LANKY OLIVE

JOURNEY OF A WARLIKE MIND Rose rises from underneath her tomb.

From the dead, from the past. She alerts for an imminent war, for the extreme necessity of transformation of a woman’s soul, a woman who has stopped feeling. She has the key to the mind of Eva, and takes the audience into a fantastic adventure through imagination, fantasy, mystery, laughter and tears. The hardest journey of them all: from the mind to the bottom of the heart.

Based on true stories of childhood, trauma, love, loss and violence, “The Journey of a Warlike Mind” deals with the tension that lives in the relationship between all the voices that live inside our minds, and establishes a modern discussion on gender in a deep and intimate level. Eva has been silent for too long and needs to seek her essential voice.

Olive doesn’t want to die with 7,000 cats eating her face. Now she’s finally met her dream man, well… he was literally in her dream.

Now she’s on a mission to find him. Chat roulette, disastrous speed dates and questionable accents feature in Kattreya Scheurer-Smith’s debut one-woman show. A witty, sweet and mildly heartbreaking story about what it’s like when you feel your time is running out.

“A beautifully formed comedy in a nutshell” ★★★★ LONDON PUB THEATRES Previous winners of Cambridge and Welwyn Drama Festivals, NDFA Audience Award Winners

£9.00

£10.00

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

14yrs+

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

12yrs+

Saturday July 20 & Sunday July 21 – 2.00pm

50min

Tuesday July 16 & Wednesday July 17 – 7.30pm

60min

24

theatre

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

M.E.H.

THE MINDOTAUR

Ancient Egypt: ‘Wandering womb’ theory first recorded.

1518: Hundreds of people dance uncontrollably on the streets of Strasbourg.

1877: Dr Jean-Martin Charcot gives demonstrations of hypnosis on female ‘hysterics’ in Paris.

2019: An award-winning theatre company write this blurb.

Right now: You read this and understand implicitly that it won’t just be a group of people screaming in a dark room for an hour. You sense it’s an exploration of medical and theatrical storytelling that transcends time. You feel a sensation that can only be described as an uncontrollable urge. You book your ticket. “...fantastic in their performance...their physical work is superb.”

EXEUNT “a very enjoyable production delivered by a first rate cast.”

LONDON THEATRE 1 “...fiercely intelligent...relentlessly imaginative... philosophically and emotionally honest.” ★★★★ FEST

A young, black woman with the head of a bull, roams her labyrinth.

Across the sea a warrior sets sail with just one goal. Backstage, the lecturer waits to deliver his thoughts. And the other guy just wants to tell a story.

Mindotaur takes the bull by the horns in this modern mix of ancient greek mythology, racial inequality and the workings of the mind.

Beneath this, is the thread of feeling trapped, alone and unable to escape life’s labyrinth. A dark and fearful place that is just one sense of a prison. One which we carry wherever we go.

£9.00

£5.00

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN STUDIO

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

12yrs+

Saturday July 20 & Sunday July 21 – 5.30pm

60min

THAT’S HOW THE LIGHT GETS IN In late 1608, Maria, twenty years old, took one of the mountain paths south through the Pyrenees, crossed from France into Spain and arrived at her home village.

She was carrying an infection, an infection of the mind. Witchcraft. The disease spread from village to village through the mountains, terrifying everyone, threatening complete social collapse. Only one thing to be done. Call the Inquisition…

Mark Steinhardt brings a new story to Bedfringe every year. This is his seventh. Many people thought last year’s — Wayland the Smith — his best yet. It was another sell-out, so this time there will be two performances. Wayland is a folk-tale. This one’s true. Mark only brings the words. You need to be there too, to build something in a dark and empty space… £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Friday July 19 – 6.00pm & Saturday July 20 – 12noon

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Wed July 24 6.30pm, Thurs July 25 4.30pm & Fri July 26 5.30pm

14yrs+

30min

THE PENULTIMATE DESTINY OF NEW LONDINIUM Join us for The Penultimate Destiny of New Londinium – a steam-powered improv show inspired by the worlds created by Neil Gaiman, Jules Verne and Terry Gilliam.

Set in the fictional city of New Londinium and blending styles of fantasy and science fiction, we’ll create an alternate future history full of adventure, mystery and comedy which changes and evolves before your very eyes.

“A thoroughly splendid night with a beyond-brilliant cast. If you missed this, you missed a real perfectly-formed, treat. We eagerly await more tales from New Londinium.”

CAMELIN CAINE, STEAMPUNK SUFFOLK COMMUNITY “At several points, had to stuff things in my mouth to prevent my guffawing drowning the dialogue. It was truly, truly wonderful – funny AND touching (and completely made up on the spot).”

FAY ROBERTS, ALLOGRAPHIC PRESS “A super-tight narrative piece. Sometimes funny and sometimes chilling. A thrilling show.” JON NGUYEN, DOGFACE IMPROV £10.00 (Concession £8.00)

12yrs+

60min

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Friday July 19 – 9.00pm

12yrs+

60min 25

theatre

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

ROOM (FOR 1)

ROOM (FOR 2)

“You step inside. The walls are on fire. There’s an envelope on the floor. The phone rings. What would you like to do?” Welcome to ROOM, a story that we tell together. One audience member.

20 minutes. Everything is live and improvised in response to your imagination. Crazy?

Surreal? Quiet? Romantic? Far out? Far in. Anything can happen. Shall we begin?

“You step inside. The walls are on fire. There’s an envelope on the floor. The phone rings. What would you like to do?” Welcome to ROOM, a story that we tell together. Two audience members. 40 minutes.

Everything is live and improvised in response to your imaginations. Crazy? Surreal?

Quiet? Romantic? Far out? Far in. Anything can happen. Shall we begin?

£9.00

£9.00

THE PLACE THEATRE STUDIO

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

14yrs+

Mon July 22 - Fri July 26 – 3.30pm | 4.00pm | 4.30pm | 5.00pm | 5.30pm

25min

THE PLACE THEATRE STUDIO

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

14yrs+

Monday July 22 - Friday July 26 – 6.30pm | 7.15pm | 8.00pm | 8.45pm 45min

SHAVING THE DEAD

LOVE THE TASTE LOVE THE PRICE

A world premier for Bedfringe!

Eurig and Connor rely on death for a living but even that has let them down. Charles Sterling’s strange corpse offers them a lifeline but will they take it?

Or will they bury his deadly secret?

‘Waiting for Godot’ meets ‘Six Feet Under!’ Perrier Award nominee, Owen O’Neill’s hilarious, Beckettian, bibleblack comedy.

Directed by Olivier Award winner (for Morecambe) Guy Masterson.

BIG MAC® OR McCHICKEN® SANDWICH & MEDIUM FRIES

£1.99

Present your voucher before placing order.

Offer valid after 10.30am until 31.12.19. Only at McDonald’s: Bedford High Street, Bedford Aspects & Bedford Elms Parc Voucher redeemable subject to availability for stated offer at named restaurant only. No cash or other alternative available. Scanned or photocopied vouchers are not accepted. One offer per voucher holder per day. Voucher will be retained. Not for resale or use in conjunction with any other promotion or offer. Must be 16 years or older to redeem. © 2019 McDonald’s

26

£11.00 (Concession £9.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Tuesday July 23 – 7.30pm

14yrs+

60min

theatre

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

STAGEWRITE: BEDFRINGE 2019

LITTLE SHINING EYES

StageWrite, one of Bedford’s annual theatrical highlights, brings you new work selected from emerging and established writers from all over the UK to The Place Theatre for BEDFRINGE 2019.

Four performances will take place as double bills over two nights and will be followed by a question-and-answer session with the writers, directors and actors.

Previous plays from the festival have gone on to be developed and performed to sell out audiences at Bedfringe and also in London venues and at Reading Fringe Festival.

Previous audience members have commented: “StageWrite excelled my expectations; although performances were script in hand, production values were very high and felt like fully rehearsed productions.”

“Wow it’s fantastic and I would love to see more. This is highly professional and innovative drama.”

Visit bedfringe.com for more performance information

StageWrite & Lifebox Theatre Company

by Poppy Hollman “We’re killers, Manny. And the thing I can’t get over is the arrogance. We think we can shape things as we want them. We wipe out whole families, colonies, species. The arrogance of humanity – it’s staggering.”

Nathan has been a pest control officer for over 30 years. But now he’s had an epiphany, and he’s secretly harbouring a colony of rats in the loft.

This darkly comic piece was a hit with audiences when first performed script in hand at StageWrite 2018. It has now been developed in collaboration with the writer and is presented as a fully rehearsed performance for Bedfringe 2019.

£8.00 (Concession £6.00)

£9.00

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

14yrs+

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

Monday July 22 & Tuesday July 23 – 6.00pm

120min

Wednesday July 24 & Thursday July 25 – 7.30pm

14yrs+

60min

THE TRIAL Presented by StoneCrabs Theatre' Part stand-up, part gig, with a sparkling performance by Inês Sampaio, The Trial is an interactive new play that questions gender constructions in the 21st century.

Can we reject authority, and live and love in a different way?

This interactive hyper theatrical performance is loosely inspired on Tieta do Agreste, a novel by Jorge Amado.

Donning musical instruments, a microphone and a loop pedal, Inês Sampaio invites the audience to join her on a journey of questioning, growth and discovery. Be unprejudiced witnesses and play jury to her story.

£9.00

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

13yrs+

Saturday July 20 & Sunday July 21 – 3.30pm

55min 27

dance & physical theatre

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

ELEV8 STUDIOS: HERE COMES THE SUN 2019 We had a fabulous time at Bedfringe 2018 and can’t wait to be back this year! As we approach the Summer Holidays, we would like to share a snippet of the hard work our pupils have put in this term.

Join us for a display of our recent class work and a sneak preview of our upcoming bi-annual show!

As well as performances from our pupils who recently represented Team England in the 2019 Dance World Cup in Portugal! It’s set to be a sizzler of a show from Bedford’s Premier Dance Academy!

Kinetic Vibes return for their 12th Bedfringe performance!

“Here at Kinetic Vibes, we are passionate about dance and we pride ourselves on offering high-quality, professional and affordable dance classes for students in the Bedford area from aged 2-92 years!”

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Thursday July 25 – 6.00pm

28

Suitable for all ages

45min

KINETIC VIBES SHOWCASE 2019

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 20 – 4.00pm

Suitable for all ages

60min

music

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

ALEX EARLY

AMY DORIS

Alex returns once again to our garden stage!

Amy is a singer/songwriter from Bedford . She has been performing live and writing for acoustic guitar and voice for almost 20 years.

Her second year on the Bedfringe line up, she is looking forward to sharing her original repertoire for what promises to be a unique and intimate performance. Expect complex time signatures, sweet vocal tones and catchy ‘prog – folk’.

£Pay what you want

£Pay what you want

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 27 – 1.30pm

Suitable for all ages

55min

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 27 – 3.40pm

Suitable for all ages

45min

29

music

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

FOLK BAR

GEORGIA LEONARD: A WISH TO SING!

A showcase of some of the best local singers and musicians.

Journey with us to our specially created fairytale land for an outdoor stage experience not quite like anything Bedford has seen before.

Family friendly and open to all, you will take away memories on the first day, and bring your friends and neighbours for the second!

Lighting up our outdoor stage during the afternoons and evenings, each day will feature performances of some of the best local acoustic and unplugged artists, from a range of genres and backgrounds, all in the gentle surroundings of The Place Bedford’s brand new outdoor performance space.

Georgia Leonard has had a tough start in life – but that’s not holding this feisty little superstar back from showing the world what she’s got to give.

12-year-old Georgia has learning difficulties as well as a life-limiting illness which affects her movement.

Since the age of eight she has had a passion for performing and has sung her heart out in school and church choirs, as well as appearing in three productions with her local theatre group.

THE PLACE THEATRE OUTDOOR STAGE

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

£Pay what you want

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

Suitable for all ages

Wednesday July 24 & Thursday July 25 – 4.00pm & 8.30pm

120min

£Pay what you want

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

Suitable for all ages

Saturday July 20 – 1.10pm

40min

THE MANN BROTHERS, DE-WIGGED! Rich and Jimmy yet again return to Bedfringe de-wigged and acoustic, last time being the opening party for the first ever festival back in 2006!

Since then then have appeared at Bedfringe in many guises; wigged as Mick and Brian from the Rolling Stones Now Tribute Band, in Yer Blues Bones, The Glenn Miller Mystery, Memory of Water, Old Fashioned Girl, The Rather Ridiculous Experiment, and every Bedfringe promo film. Jimmy also makes cool props for Doctor Who, Star Wars and Game of Thrones to name a few.

Expect Rolling Stones, Rock ’n’ Roll and maybe some pop. £Pay what you want

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Suitable for all ages

Saturday July 27 – 7.00pm & 8.30pm

30min

MARISA, JACK & DAVY Bedford-based folk trio Marisa Jack & Davy formed in 2015 in order to play at the DIY shows and house concerts they were organising. A floor spot for Stick in the Wheel’s folk night on The Golden Hinde encouraged them to further explore British folk music and they were soon seduced by the music of Shirley Collins, The Young Tradition and Nic Jones.

Marisa Jack & Davy’s unconventional interpretation of the tradition is shaped by the harmonic blend of their three unique voices, playing styles and their music backgrounds. £Pay what you want

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 20 – 3.00pm 30

Suitable for all ages

55min

NOTFLIX: THE IMPROVISED MUSICAL Five-star sellout show Edinburgh Fringe 2017-2018 and VAULT Festival 2017-2018.

Netflix combines the taste profiles of 98 million users to create a perfectly ideal viewing experience…

Notflix combines the taste profiles of a room full of theatre go-ers to create a brilliantly hilarious and completely improvised viewing experience – a full musical.

The all-female cast of ‘Notflix’ (otherwise known as ‘Waiting For The Call Improv’) use audience suggestions of recently watched films to create a brand new, fully improvised, one-night-only musical inspired by one audience member’s idea and explanation. Every show is different but what remains is the same joy-filled, high camp, musical celebration of everything you wish a movie could be.

Featured in Sunday Times, Marie Claire and Elle Magazines. Funny Women and Musical Comedy Awards nominees.

“Roaringly funny and incredibly talented” ★★★★★ BROADWAY BABY “Professional, fun and effortlessly funny” ★★★★ THE OBSERVER £12.00 (Concession £10.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Friday July 26 – 7.30pm

PG

60min

music

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

PENNYLESS Story-tale English folklore all woven with invention and delivered up with wit and style.

A highly varied set of original alternative folk and roots music, from haunting psychedelia to rip-roaring piratical songs!

“Lose yourself in the quirky, generous spirit of inventiveness that characterises Pennyless’ music” FOLKANDROOTS.COM “Gorgeously quirky stuff, essential and eccentric folk rock at it’s best” FATEA MAGAZINE £Pay what you want

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Suitable for all ages

Thursday July 25 – 7.00pm & 8.30pm

30min

SK SHLOMO: SURRENDER After collaborating with Ed Sheeran, Bjork and Damon Albarn, the recordbreaking beatboxer and Fringe favourite SK Shlomo returns with Surrender – a powerful and uplifting new one man show charting his life-affirming journey overcoming grief, addiction and suicidal depression, blending his innovative live-looping and breath-taking beatboxing with epic synths, crushingly honest lyrics and lush electronic layers.

“Fascinating.. dangerously energised performing” TELEGRAPH “So haunting… it’s beautiful” GABY ROSLIN, BBC LONDON “Extraordinary… It’s a revelation” BILL BAILEY, SHORTLIST

£12.00 (Concession £10.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

13yrs+

Tuesday July 23 – 9.00pm

60min

TAKE A DEEP BREATH CONTEMPORARY CHOIR

SUNSINGER & THE HIGH SEAS Simon Gutteridge, aka Sunsinger, is an up and coming songwriter hailing from Bedfordshire, currently based in Bedford town.

Typically performing as a three-piece, expect altcountry, folk and Americana-tinged songs with the odd hint of pop and tunes full of catchy melodies and soaring choruses.

Recent support slots include Ian McCulloch of Echo & the Bunnymen, frontmen of the Bluetones and the Seahorses, and the Wedding Present.

£Pay what you want

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Suitable for all ages

Saturday July 27 – 5.00pm

55min

SPARKY T.K.O: WELSH AMERICA Poet, musician and owner-letter of pens, Sparky T K O (“A Year in 60 Minutes”, “Mansplaining”) returns with an exploration of the relationship between the geographic siloes of Wales and North America since the turn of the 20th century. As well as poems exploring cultural and social themes, Sparky also delves into the surreal, offkey and unexpected connections as cultures evolve, societies transition and global events impact on homogenous identity.

£5.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

16yrs+

Thursday July 25 – 9.00pm

50min

TEMPORAL DRIFT

Led by Sophie Garner, a full time singer, vocal coach and music therapist.

She was the first artist to play the main stage at London’s O2 Arena and is a coach on ITV’s The Voice. Performing an ecletic mix of soul, and pop.

This super friendly Bedford based choir has only been established since the beginning of the year and has already established an enthusiastic and dedicated group of adults.

Temporal (relating to time) Drift (To move from one place in space and time to another, perhaps through inertia or other mechanism).

A journey through time and space in words and song presented by local folk duo Stuart Prince and Rosamund Hoskins. The audience are invited to take some time out and step aboard the Tardis and see where we land.

The show will involve songs some old some new, instrumentals and readings as we work our way along the space time continuum unsure as to where we will end up.

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

£Pay what you want

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Sunday July 21 – 3.00pm

Suitable for all ages

55min

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

Thursday July 25 – 7.30pm

Suitable for all ages

60min 31

music

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

THOMAS BENJAMIN WILD ESQ

TONY PHILLIPS: FRANKLY SPEAKING

With upwards of 70 million views of his video for I’ve No More F*cks To Give across social media, Thomas Benjamin Wild Esq brings his own unique blend of music and comedy.

His debut album, released in November, peaked at number 3 in the official Billboard comedy album charts.

With banjolele in hand, sharp wit and even sharper vintage style, Thomas provides a mix of original satirical songs and old time classics, perfect for a night of laughter and singing along.

The word of Frank Sinatra was one of variety and longevity.

Vegas and the RatPack all feature in this tribute to one of the USA’s greatest stars.

Sit back and enjoy it with Tony Phillips on vocals and Craig Stallwood on piano.

As a musician Tony has appeared with many acts including Ray Charles, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bill Hayley, The Searchers & Sir Cliff Richard to name but a few. From the world of stage & theatre, he has appeared with notable names including Sir Dirk Bogarde, Sir Anthony Hopkins and Lee Remick.

£Pay what you want

£10.00 (Concession £8.00)

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ (some fruity language)

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Wednesday July 24 – 8.30pm

Sunday July 21 – 6.00pm

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

45min

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

Suitable for all ages

60min

TREMAINE MUSIC Tremaine is a talented vocalist and pianist who takes her inspiration from Motown, Jazz, Classical and Gospel Music.

She writes and sings beautiful songs about life and love that will leave you feeling blessed and inspired.

Tremaine will be performing songs from her debut album ‘But For The Grace of God’ and some notable covers.

VOCAL WORKS Vocal Works Bedford return to Bedfringe to showcase their talented young singers who will perform individual and small group pop songs.

Vocal Works is a modern singing school providing outstanding vocal training for 7-16 year olds led by music industry professionals. Classes are limited to six children of a similar age/ability and focus on the performance of contemporary music styles. Our students study individual and group songs, rehearse with microphones every week, and have the opportunity to perform at special ‘gig’ events and work towards Trinity Rock & Pop Vocal examinations.

Our Bedford classes run term time on a Thursday at Goldington Academy.

For more information please go to www.vocalworks.org.uk £Pay what you want

£Pay what you want

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Friday July 26 – 8.15pm 32

Suitable for all ages

45min

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 20 – 10.00am

Suitable for all ages

120min

poetry & spoken word

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

Bedford Poetry Company presents

STUFF! A wealth of live words, music and song, lights up the garden stage – rhyme time, mini-stories, dramas, flash fiction, showcases by local writers, and a special feature – Your Turn – an opportunity to join in and add to this rich parade of talent! £Pay what you want

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

ORPHEUS

/ˈrapsədi/ episodic yet integrated, freeflowing in structure, featuring a range of highly contrasted moods, colour, and tonality. An air of spontaneous inspiration and a sense of improvisation make it free in form Inspired by the Ancient Greek summer poetry festivals and competitions WordSetFree present an evening of free form poetry and spoken word. Expect delicious tangents, epic metaphors, surprising journeys, and everything you’d want from an evening in the company of some of the best local poets, writers and performers.

There will be tasty vegan food available for all audience members to purchase on the night (and in advance) but performers will be expected to ‘sing for their supper’.

At the end of the night the first ever BEDFRINGE Rhapsode will be wreathed in laurels and elevated to the hallowed halls of Rhapsodist for all eternity! (n.b. eternity not guaranteed) To sign up to perform; contact alex@wordsetfree.co.uk to book your free ticket to the event.

The Flanagan Collective & Gobbledigook Theatre Words by Alexander Wright Music by Phil Grainger Internationally award winning modern re-teling of an ancient myth.

Dave is single and turning 30. He’s stood at the bar. Eurydice is a tree nymph. And Bruce Springsteen is on the juke box.

A tale of impossible, death defying love told through hair raising spoken word and soaring soul music.

The Flanagan Collective and Gobbledigook Theatre weave a world of dive bars, side streets and ancient gods.

“Charming, uplifting…simple storytelling at its finest” ★★★★★ ADELAIDE ADVERTISER “Theatrical Magic. I laughed, I cried, I loved it” ★★★★★ GLAM ADELAIDE “A true gem of a show who’s praise I want to sing from the rooftops” ★★★★★ VOICEMAG Winner Adelaide Theatre Award (weekly) 2018 Winner FRINGE WORLD Best Theatre Award (Weekly) 2019 Winner Best Pure Theatre Award (Sunday Mail) 2019 Winner City of Literature ‘Beyond Words’ Award – Dunedin Fringe 2019 Winner ‘Best in Fringe’ Award – Dunedin Fringe 2019

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Suitable for all ages

Thursday July 18 – 7.30pm

120min

BEDFRINGE RHAPSODY

£6.00

£9.00

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

THE PLACE THEATRE OUTDOOR STAGE

16yrs+

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

THE PLACE THEATRE OUTDOOR STAGE

Friday July 26 – 8.00pm

150min

Monday July 22 - Friday July 26 – 7.00pm

13yrs+

60min 33

poetry & spoken word

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

FUN TIME WITH GRANDMA MO AND SIAMESE JOE

SWAN POETRY: AN EVENING OF POETRY & PROSE

Mo Kerr and Nora Haikala have created two amazing characters called Grandma Mo and Siamese Joe. Why not Join Mo and Joe to hear about their adventures. It’s a show full of fun and laughs.

Following another successful season of readings at The Eagle Bookshop in Castle Road, Swan present ‘An Evening of Poetry & Prose’ at BEDFRINGE 2019: a wide ranging selection of poetry, prose and drama – ‘either tragedy, comedy, history, pastoral, pastoral-comical, historical-pastoral, tragical-historical, tragical-comical-historicalpastoral, scene individable, or poem unlimited’ read by members of Swan Theatre Company and their guests.

£Pay what you want

£6.00

THE WOODFINES GARDEN STAGE

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Sunday July 21 & Thursday July 25 – 1.10pm

4-8yrs

40min

THE PLACE THEATRE MAIN HOUSE

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

Sunday July 21 – 5.00pm

8yrs+

120min+interval

Registered Charity No 307534

W W W. S H U T T L E WO R T H . O

RG

Shuttleworth, a fun family day out!

Free parking, free wi , and free play area for children

DAILY ADMISSION: www.shuttleworth.org/book-a-ticket Shuttleworth is a visitor attraction with lots to offer for all ages. Discover The Collection, a treasure trove of airworthy vintage aircraft from 1909-1950, agricultural exhibits, and classic cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and vintage buses. Explore our Swiss Garden with 13 listed structures, woodland sculpture walk, and a resident peacock. Flying displays take place May-October, events and children’s activities run throughout the year.

Enjoy our children’s play area, on-site restaurant, free wi , Visitor Centre with gift shop and free parking!

Shuttleworth, Old Warden Aerodrome, Bedfordshire, SG18 9EP | 01767 627927 | enquiries@shuttleworth.org

34

film

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

XXX CFEGSJOHF DPN

FILM SCREENING: STAN & OLLIE

FILM SCREENING: MATILDA We thought it would be fun to show this film on the big screen at The Quarry Theatre during this year’s festival! Enjoy!

This film adaptation of a Roald Dahl work tells the story of Matilda Wormwood (Mara Wilson), a gifted girl forced to put up with a crude, distant father (Danny DeVito) and mother (Rhea Perlman).

Worse, Agatha Trunchbull (Pam Ferris), the evil principal at Matilda’s school, is a terrifyingly strict bully.

However, when Matilda realizes she has the power of telekinesis, she begins to defend her friends from Trunchbull’s wrath and fight back against her unkind parents. £5.00

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Thursday July 25 – 11.00am

PG

98min

Starring Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly as the inimitable movie icons, Stan & Ollie is the heartwarming story of what would become the pair’s triumphant farewell tour.

Laurel and Hardy — the world’s greatest comedy team — face an uncertain future as their golden era of Hollywood films remain long behind them.

Diminished by age, the duo set out to reconnect with their adoring fans by touring variety halls in Britain in 1953.

The shows become an instant hit, but Stan and Ollie can’t quite shake the past as long-buried tension and Hardy’s failing health start to threaten their precious partnership. ★★★★ EMPIRE £5.00

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Thursday July 25 – 1.30pm

PG

100min 35

other events BEDFRINGE 13 LAUNCH PARTY! FEATURING SK SHLOMO Welcome to the 13th Bedford Festival Fringe Launch Party!

As we are running a two week festival we thought we should go back to how things used to get done by starting the festival with a night of comedy, magic and live music.

This year’s show will be MC’d by Bedford Castle Comedy legend Paul Revill “Steals the show” ★★★★ THREE WEEKS The line-up includes Naz Osmanoglu, star of BBC’s Flat TV, Horrible Histories and Comedy Central’s Drunk History.

Next up is viral video star (last count, 23,352,103 views) and Bedford chap Tom Wild Esq who will be serenading us with various songs including the hit “I’ve Got No More F**ks To Give”.

Following him is Magician and Comedian Dave Alnwick who has had thirteen full house Edinburgh Fringe Festival Shows, three National Tours and One TV Special.

Closing the show is the award-winning, recording-breaking beatboxer, producer and live-looper SK Shlomo “Extraordinary… It’s a revelation” BILL BAILEY The evening kicks off in the bar with jazz DJ Richard Compton

£13.00

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

CIRCUS OF ILLUSTRATION: ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE Bedfordshire’s illustration collective, The Circus Of Illustration, will return to the Quarry with a group exhibition inspired by everything thespian titled ‘All The World’s A Stage’.

Expect affordable art from Bedfordshire and beyond.

For Gallery opening times please visit bedfringe.com: www.circusofillusration.com

£free (non-ticket event)

THE QUARRY THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

16yrs+

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

THE QUARRY THEATRE GALLERY

Monday July 15 – 8.00pm

120min

Monday July 15 – Saturday July 27

Suitable for all ages

All day

DEBRA KADABRA IN WHO’S YOUR FELLA, TINDERELLA? Join Debra Kadabra on her magical quest to find love, or at the very least, a date.

Magic, mind-reading and match-making all in one marvellous mystical miscellany.

Swipe right on Debra Kadabra and join her magical quest to find love, romance, or at the very least, a date for the evening. Magic, mind-reading and match-making all in one marvellous mystical miscellany.

Dan Smith has performed around the country as an actor and musician for many years. He has played dame in a number of pantomimes nationwide, and combines this background with his passion for magic to create this unique debut.

£5.00

THE QUARRY THEATRE STUDIO

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

Saturday July 27 – 4.30pm 36

PHYSICAL THEATRE & DEVISING Award-winning physical theatre company, The Outbound Project, will lead you through some of their techniques to devise movement within a theatrical context, exploring ensemble exercises, generating movement content and conveying a narrative through physical storytelling. Perfect for students, actors looking to extend their skill set and anyone who wants to learn something new.

A perfect accompaniment to all the excitement and drama of the festival, with a chance to roll up your sleeves and get stuck in yourselves. Bring your pals, your nan, and yourselves and let’s get moving. Maybe next year your work will be at the festival too! £15.00

14yrs+

30min

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

THE PLACE THEATRE STUDIO

12yrs+

Sunday July 21 – 1.00pm

240min

other events

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

RESIDENT REVIEW WRITING WORKSHOP Each season The Place Theatre selects three local writers to be resident reviewers for the shows at the the venue, their writing will be published across our social media platforms as well as in The Clanger!

The work of the reviewers in the two younger categories will be published in ‘A Younger Theatre’, and the 16-25 winner will receive mentoring from staff at ‘The Stage’!

Through a writing competition we select one person from three age groups (9-12, 13-16 and 16-25) giving three of Bedford’s best young writers an amazing opportunity.

If you’re a young aspiring writer and want to learn more about review writing, or find out how to better improve your critical writing for school then why not come along to these free BEDFRINGE workshops to learn a few tips and tricks to use in your application Email eh@theplacebedford.org.uk to register your interest, or book a place on the BEDFRINGE website Session 1 (9-16yrs: 2.00pm – 2.40pm) Session 2 (16-25yrs: 3.00pm – 3.40pm)

£free (non-ticketed event)

THE PLACE THEATRE STUDIO

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

Saturday July 20 – 2.00pm & 3.00pm

9-16yrs

40min

ONCE UPON A TIME… AN EXHIBITION OF ILLUSTRATIONS FROM FAMOUS FAIRY TALES Throughout Bedfringe we will be hosting an exhibition of original artwork from some of the world’s most beloved fairy tales.

Featuring artists and illustrators including Nick Sharratt, Lucy Cousins, Jessica Ahlberg and Peter Malone, the pieces are on loan from Rogans Books, a gallery of children’s book illustrations located in Bedford’s Cultural Quarter on Castle Lane.

The pieces will be available to purchase, and all artwork can be viewed through their online gallery at shop.rogansbooks.co.uk £free (non-ticketed event)

THE PLACE THEATRE GALLERY

Suitable for all ages

Tuesday July 16th – Saturday July 27 (Place opening times)

All day

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

STAGEWRITE: WRITING FOR THEATRE StageWrite began in 2013 with a few scripts from local writers. We wanted to engage with them and to help develop their work further through local opportunities.

Six years on, we’ve read in excess of 150 plays and staged over 40 of them across six festivals, assisting emerging writers by getting their plays up on their feet and getting valuable feedback from directors, actors and, perhaps most importantly, the audience.

If you are a budding playwright, then this workshop will help you get started.

Through practical writing exercises, we’ll get you writing the first page of your play and you’ll get to see it brought to life by the end of the workshop.

SILENT ADVENTURES: SIGHT SINGING IN BEDFORD! Supported by Keens Shay Keens Ltd Join the Silent Adventures Team as we lead you in song and dance around the streets and squares of Bedford for our famous one-hour guided adventure. Expect all your inhibitions to evaporate away as you don our hi-tech headsets and bust some funky new moves whilst singing your heart out and serenading the rest of the world.

It’s a flash mob. It’s a silent disco. It’s a roaming, rhythmic riot across the sound soaked streets of Bedford!

Please note: Tours start from The Quarry Theatre. Arrive 10-15 minutes before the start to meet your host and grab your headset. Please do not be late.

“Needs to be experienced to be believed!”

INDEPENDENT LIVERPOOL “Absolute riot from start to finish!” THE TRAVEL MAGAZINE £prices vary

£6.00

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

THE PLACE THEATRE STUDIO

13yrs+

26 ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD

THE QUARRY THEATRE FORECOURT

Thursday July 18 – 6.00pm

120min

Wed July 17 7.30; Sat July 20 12.30, 4, 6.30; Sun July 21 12.30, 3.30, 6.30

Suitable for all ages

60min 37

other events

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

WRITE IT DOWN DEAR: WRITING WORKSHOP ‘Write it down, dear’ Nora Ephron observed that her fiction was frequently described as ‘thinly disguised’ autobiography when many male writers had mined their lives for material without being ‘hit with the thinly disguised thing’. This is a practical workshop for people who want to write a drama about life; the way it’s lived, imagined or somewhere in between. Open to all abilities.

Liberty Martin is a writer, dramaturg and collaborator she is committed to creating powerful, narrative-driven work across forms. Her short film and television scripts have recently won places in BBC Writersroom development schemes at The Lowry and BBC Elstree Centre and she has produced, directed and performed her own original comedy and interactive work for Latitude Festival and Edinburgh Fringe. She has most recently been working with The Outbound Project on their latest production, M.E.H.

£10.00

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

THE PLACE THEATRE STUDIO

14yrs+

Wednesday July 17 – 6.00pm

120min

BLACK OUT FOR BEDFRINGE: A POST ELECTRIC DAY A quick, messy and creative artistic response to the cultural and ecological emergency facing us. This July, as part of BEDFRINGE, The Place Bedford, in collaboration with Staging Change, present a series of theatre works by emerging and established theatre makers all responding to a cultural and ecological challenge: What happens if the lights go out?

For one whole day we will be turning the mains power off in the whole building, and challenging ourselves and a large group of theatre makers and artists to come up with exciting, provocative entertainment for a whole day.

Will it be business as usual? Will it be a blueprint for a new way of working? Can we run a box office from solar power and batteries?

Can we keep our venue cool and our drink colder?

Who knows? Not us, yet! Will it be fun? Absolutely!

Join us throughout the day for a different look at what theatre, festivals and entertainment can be. More information about the artists and shows participating will be announced between now and July. Stay tuned for more information.

£TBC (cash only!)

THE PLACE THEATRE

BRADGATE ROAD, BEDFORD MK40 3DE

Saturday July 27 – All day 38

14yrs+

For tickets visit: www.bedfringe.com

at a glance

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