What's On Guide - Spring 2024

WHAT’S ON GUIDE 2023/2024

WORLD CLASS THEATRE WELCOME TO A BRANDNEW SEASON AT THE REP - ONE THAT’S PACKED WITH WORLD CLASS THEATRE FOR EVERYONE. This season will bring 2023 to a close and what a phenomenal year it’s been for The Rep! Artistic Director Sean Foley’s World Premiere of Spitting Image Live transferred to the West End for a smash hit run, our Rep Original production Of Mice and Men moved audiences across the country when it went on tour, and our World Premiere of the truly sensational Sinatra The Musical received five star reviews and standing ovations across the run as Broadway came to Brum!

The icing on a pretty spectacular year was the news that three of the stars from our 2023 spring-summer season were nominated in the UK Theatre Awards 2023. BAFTA winner Siobhán McSweeney was nominated for Best Performance in a Play for her role as Winnie in Happy Days, with William Young being nominated in the same category for his role as Lennie in Of Mice and Men. The wonderful Bryony Corrigan was also nominated in the Best Supporting Performance (in a Musical or Play) category for her outstanding role in I, Daniel Blake, which also won the award for Excellence in Touring.

Meanwhile, our ground breaking Foundry scheme is enabling communities and drama practitioners to work together and ‘co-create’ theatre around the City, and our Young Rep teams are already starting to cook up their next festival of plays.

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

Working with the very best - from those first coming into the industry, to proven world class talent - is what The Rep is all about.

With three World Premieres, three Rep Original productions, two shows transferring to the West End and three award nominations, we’re immensely proud of the outstanding shows and

FOR EVERYONE incredible talent our audiences get to experience, often before the rest of the world, right here in Birmingham. And we’re not finished yet…

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is just about to open for a spectacular Christmas run at The Rep, arriving direct from the West End. With magical storytelling, bewitching stagecraft and incredible puppets it’s guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages.

Rep Original Musical Bhangra Nation kicks 2024 off with a bang, enjoying its UK premiere in The House. Created by an international team of world class talent, this pulsating and joyous new musical set in the competitive world of Bhangra dancing opens a year of exciting new shows.

The World Premiere co-productions continue in 2024 with the futuristic thriller, Minority Report, written by acclaimed actor David Haig, and Blue Beard with the extraordinary, imaginative and playful Wise Children theatre company.

Withnail and I, adapted for the stage

by Bruce Robinson from his own semiautobiographical film. This hilarious show about two young unemployed actors is the tale of one of the most famous ‘slacker’ duos ever created - with perhaps the most quotable funny dialogue in film history.

Alongside shows such as the returning Black is The Color of My Voice in The Studio, Tales Till Ramadan, plus an incredible line up of shows in our most intimate space, The Door, curated by Associate Director Madeleine Kludje including a World Premiere co-production with Deafinitely Theatre, The Promise - our 3 stages are full of original, exciting theatre for everyone over the coming months.

There are opportunities for every age group from volunteering to Youth Theatre, adult drama to early years, or even an amazing backstage tour. The Rep is your theatre and we welcome you to get involved in whatever excites or intrigues your imagination.

In May, Artistic Director, Sean Foley directs the World Premiere of the classic comedy

SEAN FOLEY ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

RACHAEL THOMAS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Photo by Kris Askey

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FRIENDS Rep Friends is the membership scheme that allows YOU to enjoy the shows you love whilst supporting the theatre you love.

GIF REP F RT A MEMB IENDS TO THE ERSHIP LOVER THE ATRE IN YO LIFE . UR SE E W EB FOR MO SIT E DE TA ILR E S

As a Rep Friend you can enjoy a host of savings and discounts, with just a few listed below.

Your subscription also supports our on and off stage activities, allowing us to continue the work we do here in the building and across the community and city.

EXCLUSIVE TICKET & CAFÉ BAR DISCOUNTS PRIORITY BOOKING NO TRANSACTION FEES Memberships start from £45 a year. Join now: BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK/MEMBERSHIP 03

WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

CAFÉ BAR OPEN 90 MINUTES BEFORE PERFORMANCES – OFFERING A SELECTION OF PASTRIES, SANDWICHES AND SWEET TREATS — MEET FOR PRE-SHOW DRINKS Come and enjoy the delights of The Rep Café Bar for light bites, delicious coffee and refreshing drinks.

Watch the world go by with a glass of fizz and glorious views of Centenary Square.

We hope to see you soon.

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SEE MORE, SPEND LESS! Book the same number of tickets for 3 productions in one transaction and receive 33% off all tickets.

Available on almost all productions. T&Cs apply.

Encourage the theatre audiences of the future and bring a teenager (13 - 19 years) along to The Rep for free. Receive one free young person’s ticket when you book a full priced ticket.

Available Mon - Thu performances for the following productions:

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

Blue Beard

Withnail and I

The House has 820 beautiful seats - each with a perfect view of the stage. It’s here that world class creatives work with our in-house production teams to produce World Premiere musicals, comedies, plays and family shows and where we also welcome the very best touring shows from across the UK.

Photo by Kris Askey

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

MADE WITH THE REP

BASED ON THE NOVEL BY C.S.LEWIS DIRECTED BY MICHAEL FENTIMAN

FROM £20.50 AGE 6+ AND THEIR FAMILIES

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

TUE 14 NOV 23 - SUN 28 JAN 24 Direct from the West End comes the most magical of shows for Christmas...

Step through the wardrobe into the kingdom of Narnia for mystical adventures in a faraway land.

Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they wave goodbye to wartime Britain and say hello to Mr Tumnus, the talking Faun; Aslan, the unforgettable Lion and the coldest, cruellest White Witch!

This breath-taking stage show of C.S. Lewis’ classic novel comes to The Rep direct from the West End. With magical storytelling, bewitching stagecraft and incredible puppets, it is guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages.

Birmingham Rep in association with Elliott & Harper Productions and Catherine Schreiber

A SPELLBINDING SPECTACLE

A FANTASTICAL FAMILY TREAT

THE GUARDIAN

THE TELEGRAPH

Production Photography by Brinkhoff Moegenburg. Photography from previous production.

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WRITTEN BY KATHERINE CHANDLER DIRECTED BY CAROLINE WILKES

FROM £10 AGE 3-6

All performances feature some integrated Makaton

A REP ORIGINAL FAMILY SHOW

LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD

THU 7 DEC 23 – SAT 6 JAN 24 Little Red Riding Hood loves adventures.

On her way to visit Grandma with a basket of goodies and wearing her signature bright red coat, she sets out for what will be her most exciting adventure yet!

Join Little Red Riding Hood on her magical festive journey through the deep dark woods. Watch her outwit the Big Bad Wolf as she shows that being brave, kind and a little bit chatty can get you out of even the trickiest situations.

This fresh look on the children’s classic fairy tale is a Rep Original production and has been created especially for children aged 3 to 6 years old (and their grown-ups!).

The show takes place in The Rep’s most intimate performance space, The Door, offering a perfect introduction to theatre and a special experience for young audiences.

Generously supported by The Sir Barry Jackson Trust

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

MAGICAL! KEPT THE CHILDREN ENTERTAINED FROM THE MOMENT WE WALKED THROUGH THE DOOR AUDIENCE MEMBER ON JACK AND THE MAGIC BEANSTALK, 2022

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DANCING JUST GOT SERIOUS!

Photo credit: Rich Soublet II from previous production at La Jolla Playhouse.

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BOOK BY MIKE LEW & REHANA LEW MIRZA MUSIC & LYRICS BY SAM WILLMOTT DIRECTED BY STAFFORD ARIMA CHOREOGRAPHED BY RUJUTA VAIDYA

FROM £15 AGE 12+

SEE PAGE 5 FOR INFO

A REP ORIGINAL MUSICAL

BHANGRA NATION A NEW MUSICAL SAT 17 FEB – SAT 16 MAR

2024 is set to start with a bang with the UK Premiere of Bhangra Nation - A New Musical!

This pulsating and powerful story about finding your true self is told with verve.

When Mary and Preeti’s American collegiate Bhangra team qualifies for USA Nationals, they set off on opposing quests to dance to their own beat.

Drawing from competitive Bhangra and mixing it with other Indian and Western dance forms, Bhangra Nation – A New Musical is a brash, intoxicating and joyous musical comedy for today.

This exhilarating new musical has been created by an international creative team, brought together

by Tony and Grammy Award-winning producers Mara Isaacs (Hadestown) and Tom Kirdahy (Hadestown, The Inheritance).

A new musical that celebrates traditions we inherit and those we create - Bhangra Nation promises to be a seriously great theatrical experience for all.

A Birmingham Rep production in association with Mara Isaacs & Tom Kirdahy

JUBILANT, FUNNY, ACCESSIBLE AND ENTERTAINING…WELL-CRAFTED CHARACTERS, QUIRKY HUMOUR AND TOUCHING MOMENTS… THE SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE

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BASED ON THE SHORT STORY BY PHILIP K. DICK

A REP ORIGINAL DRAMA

WRITTEN BY DAVID HAIG

FRI 22 MAR – SAT 6 APR

DIRECTED BY MAX WEBSTER

FROM £17.50 AGE 12+

MINORITY REPORT

In 2050, neuroscientist Dame Julia Anderton is about to launch the next phase of her pioneering Pre-Crime programme, detaining people for crimes before they are committed. But when Julia is accused of premurder, she’s in a race against time to save herself from her own system.

This thrilling adaptation of Phillip K Dick’s iconic story challenges our beliefs about justice and freewill in a real-time chase through London of the future.

SEE PAGE 5 FOR INFO

Minority Report sees award-winning director Max Webster reunite with the producers of the globally successful stage version of Life of Pi. This incredible theatrical experience will take audiences on an electrifying ride into the future, as it creates a world at the borders of science fiction and reality.

A Nottingham Playhouse, Birmingham Rep and Lyric Hammersmith Theatre co-production in association with Simon Friend Entertainment, by arrangement with Electric Shepherd Productions

IT WILL MAKE YOU BELIEVE IN THEATRE. A TRIUMPH THE SUNDAY TIMES ON LIFE OF PI

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

EXTRAORDINARY. ONE OF THE MOST VISUALLY STUNNING SHOWS I HAVE EVER SEEN TIME OUT ON LIFE OF PI

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

Photo by Steve Tanner

MADE WITH THE REP

BLUE BEARD TUE 9 – SAT 20 APR WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY EMMA RICE

Blue Beard the Magician makes hearts flutter and pupils dilate. With a wink, a stroke and a flick - things just seem to vanish. Cards, coins, scarves… and women.

FROM £15 AGE 12+

Puff! Gone. Without a trace.

SEE PAGE 5 FOR INFO

He meets his match when his young bride discovers his dark and murderous secret. She summons all her rage, all her smarts and all her sisters to bring the curtain down on his tyrannous reign.

Emma Rice brings her own brand of theatrical wonder to this most beguiling and disturbing of tales. With her signature sleight of hand, Blue Beard explores curiosity and consent, violence and vengeance - all through an intoxicating lens of music, wit and tender truth.

When someone tells you not to look, OPEN THE BLOODY DOOR! A Wise Children, Birmingham Rep, HOME Manchester, Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh and York Theatre Royal co-production

A WILDLY IMAGINATIVE, EXHILARATING PIECE OF THEATRE DAILY MAIL - ON WISE CHILDREN’S WUTHERING HEIGHTS

EVERYONE INVOLVED IS REACHING FOR THE HEIGHTS IN THIS EMOTIONALLY EPIC ENTERTAINMENT THE TIMES - ON WISE CHILDREN’S WUTHERING HEIGHTS

A WONDROUS, BEGUILING PLAYGROUND OF THE IMAGINATION NEW YORK TIMES - ON WISE CHILDREN’S WUTHERING HEIGHTS

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WRITTEN BY BRUCE ROBINSON DIRECTED BY SEAN FOLEY DESIGNED BY ALICE POWER

FROM £19.50 AGE 14+

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A REP ORIGINAL COMEDY

WITHNAIL AND I FRI 3 – SAT 25 MAY

Birmingham Rep presents the World Premiere stage adaptation of iconic comedy Withnail and I. Regarded as one of the finest British films ever made, this Rep Original comedy is written by the legendary Bruce Robinson, its original creator, and directed

by The Rep’s Artistic Director, double Olivier award winner Sean Foley.

London, September 1969. The sixties are in full swing, rock ‘n’ roll has electrified a generation and bohemianism rules.

But away from the bright lights two young unemployed actors, the flamboyant boozy Withnail and the shy, contemplative Marwood, live in utter squalor in a flat in Camden Town, praying for a job.

‘WHAT HAPPENED TO MY AGENT? B**TARD MUST HAVE DIED!’ – Withnail Their only visitor is their drug dealer, Danny. Their only expeditions are to the local pubs. And their only friends are each other.

WE WANT THE FINEST WINES AVAILABLE TO HUMANITY. WE WANT THEM HERE AND WE WANT THEM NOW! WITHNAIL

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Needing a break from the positively atrocious state of their acting careers, they hit upon the idea of a holiday in the country and borrow the cottage owned by Withnail’s wealthy Uncle Monty. Will escaping London reinvigorate their addled brains and kick start their professional fortunes?

Hilarious, tragic, and wild, Withnail and I is a comedy like no other. This world premiere stage adaptation brings to life the classic dialogue, the insane situations and above all the boozy, irresistibly hilarious relationship of one of the most famous slacker duos ever created.

BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK

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TRANSFORM YOUR EVENTS FROM THE MUNDANE TO THE MAGNIFICENT Flexible conference and events spaces at the Library of Birmingham and The Rep.

BOOK ROTUNDA & BASKERVILLE • Iconic setting for gala dinners & drinks receptions.

• Amazing backdrop for dinners up to 500.

• Access to roof terrace that offers stunning panoramic views across the city.

STUDIO THEATRE • T he Studio offers seating for 292 delegates or reduced seating for 229.

• Versatility is key with The Studio seating retracting to provide a blank canvas for creating events.

HOUSE THEATRE • 800 seater auditorium with a dividing tab, creating a more intimate space for 475 delegates.

• Dine on the stage up to 240 guests.

• Host events on top of theatrical sets.

0121 245 2066 enquiries@uniquevenuesbirmingham.com uniquevenuesbirmingham.com Birmingham Repertory Theatre 6 Centenary Square, Birmingham B1 2EP

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

COBO: KINGS OF COMEDY SAT 30 DEC

FROM £27 AGE 16+

The Kings of Comedy are bringing the laughs, all you’ve got to do is bring your friends and enjoy an evening of hilarious, tell it how it is comedy.

Join Richard Blackwood (MTV, ITV, BBC, CH4), Nabil Abdulrashid (BBC, CH4, ITV, Live At The Apollo), Curtis Walker (The Real McCoy, ITV, BBC) and Slim (Live At The Apollo, Sky, CH4), up close at The Rep. Presented by LuvEntertainment BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

Cassa Pancho’s Ballet Black in The Waiting Game choreographed by Mthuthuzeli November.

Photo by Bill Cooper.

BALLET BLACK: HEROES THU 13 & FRI 14 JUN FROM £16.50 AGE 7+

SEE PAGE 5 FOR INFO.

Cassa Pancho’s Ballet Black return to The Rep following their triumphant visit last May, with a new double bill, HEROES. Award-winning choreographer, Mthuthuzeli November contemplates the purpose of life in The Waiting Game, his exciting and energetic work about the meaning of life originally created in 2020, infused with a dynamic soundtrack featuring the voices of the Ballet Black artists.

Sophie Laplane, the Franco-British artist and Choreographer in Residence at Scottish Ballet creates a new piece for Ballet Black, after her dazzling 2019 ballet, CLICK! Laplane’s new work explores the complexity of humanity, heroism and self-acceptance in this celebratory and original piece.

THIS IS INDEED THE FUTURE OF DANCE INEWS

Ballet Black has transformed the landscape of British ballet, creating a prominent platform for dancers and artists of Black and Asian descent, as well as establishing a new canon of ballet repertoire that resonates with audiences around the world.

Presented by Ballet Black

BALLET BLACK ARE A WHIRLWIND OF A COMPANY BRINGING NEW AND EXCITING DANCE TO BIRMINGHAM

EXHILARATING IN EFFECT AND FULL OF IDEAS, THE WAITING GAME FEELS LIKE A HIT, CONFIRMING NOVEMBER’S TALENT AND THIS REMARKABLE COMPANY’S STRONG SENSE OF ITSELF

CULTURE BAB

THE GUARDIAN

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The Studio is our flexible 300 seat theatre where new contemporary plays and classics re-worked with a twist find their home.

We share this space with our neighbours, The Library of Birmingham. Many of the shows that start here go on to tour nationally and internationally.

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

DESI CENTRAL COMEDY SHOW FRI 29 DEC

Leave your worries at the door and enter the world of Desi Central for a night of non-stop laughs, with Sukh Ojla (Mock The Week, Life Sukhs, BBC), Tommy Sandhu (BBC, Brownload), Faizan Shah (Comedy Store Gong Winner, BBC New Comedy) and Nabil Abdulrashid (BBC Live At The Apollo, ITV Stand Up Sketch Show).

Presented by LuvEntertainment

FROM £20 AGE 16+

SUKH OJLA: HOT AUNTY SUMMER SAT 25 MAY

Sukh keeps being told that she’s successful. She’s been on telly, had a book published and even been trolled on Twitter. So why does she still feel like a toddler who has lost their Mum in Tesco’s?

Join Sukh Ojla as she approaches 40 and figures out middle age, pretending to be a grown up and the joy of a Tupperware set.

Presented by LuvEntertainment

FROM £20 AGE 16+ BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK

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BLACK IS THE COLOR OF MY VOICE TUE 27 FEB - SAT 2 MAR

Back at The Rep by popular demand, this sell-out show is inspired by the life of Nina Simone, and features many of her most iconic songs performed live.

Apphia Campbell’s acclaimed play follows a successful singer and civil rights activist as she seeks redemption after the untimely death of her father. She reflects on the journey that took her from a young piano prodigy destined for a life in the service of the church, to a renowned jazz vocalist at the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement.

Presented by James Seabright

MOVING PORTRAYAL THE TIMES

NOTHING SHORT OF SENSATIONAL BROADWAY BABY

HAUNTINGLY BEAUTIFUL THEATRE WEEKLY

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

CREATED AND PERFORMED BY APPHIA CAMPBELL

FROM £19 AGE 12+

SEE PAGE 5 FOR INFO

We’re thrilled to kick off our new spring season in The Door, our most intimate space, with a diverse line-up that promises an insightful delve into history, exploring themes of religion, identity, and the unique perspectives of the D/deaf community.

The season starts in February with a heart-warming family production of Can Bears Ski?, a delightful adaptation of poet Raymond Antrobus’ book.

By popular demand, Khayaal Theatre return after their two sold-out performances of Tales Till Ramadan earlier this year, in preparation for next year’s celebrations.

The compelling Indigo Giant by Komala Collective takes us back to a key moment in time in the late 1800s.

We are also eagerly anticipating the return of Kali Theatre at The Rep, with a series of special staged script-in-hand readings from exciting South Asian female writers.

In April, don’t miss our world premiere coproduction with Deafinitely Theatre and Lyric Hammersmith, The Promise, which draws inspiration from the experiences of deaf people living with dementia.

It promises to be a truly remarkable production.

Madeleine Kludje Associate Director

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BROWN BOYS SWIM TUE 31 OCT - SAT 4 NOV

Best friends Mohsen and Kash are gearing up for the biggest night of their lives – Jess Denver’s pool party. There’s just one problem… they can’t swim.

Fuelled by halal Haribo and chicken wings, the pair throw themselves in at the deep end, tackling cramped cubicles and cold showers as they learn how to be at one with the water.

Fierce, funny, and brimming with heart, Karim Khan examines the pressures faced by young Muslim men in this exhilarating play about fitting in and striking out.

Presented by The North Wall

FROM £12 AGE 14+ SEE PAGE 5 FOR INFO

WALTZING THE BLUE GODS FRI 10 & SAT 11 NOV

Waltzing The Blue Gods is a liberating tale in two parts, that reimagines the Queer symbolism of the Hindu gods, Shiva and Krishna, and the role they played in Jaivant Patel’s sexual awakening and spiritual relationship to faith, to becoming an openly homosexual British-Indian man.

Part auto-biographical, part fantasy, the evening celebrates new possibilities for a rich and traditional art form, Kathak, in the context of modern contemporary Britain that’s proud of its LGBTQI+ narratives.

This performance also features live music.

Kathak is a North Indian classical dance form embedded in storytelling.

Photo by Karol Wyszynski

Presented by Jaivant Patel Company

FROM £12 SEE PAGE 5 FOR INFO

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

CAN BEARS SKI? FRI 9 & SAT 10 FEB

Little Bear can’t hear Dad Bear calling, but feels the floor vibrate with heavy footsteps...

Little Bear can’t catch the funny joke at school when friends are laughing, but feels the crunch of snow on frozen pavements.

Join Little Bear and Dad Bear as they learn how there are many ways to communicate love, and to find your place in the world.

Can Bears Ski? is based on the book by poet Raymond Antrobus, Ted Hughes Awardwinner, who draws on his own experience as a deaf child in a hearing world.

Presented by Pied Piper Theatre Company and Deafinitely Theatre

ADULTS £10 CHILDREN £8 AGE 3+

Text Copyright © 2020 Raymond Antrobus. Illustration Copyright © 2020 Polly Dunbar. From CAN BEARS SKI? written by Raymond Antrobus and illustrated by Polly Dunbar. Reproduced by permission of Walker Books Ltd, London SE11 5HU. www.walker.co.uk

TALES TILL RAMADAN: SEEKING SINCERITY

THU 29 FEB – SAT 2 MAR

Like the Ramadan crescent, sincerity can be elusive.

In this one woman show, Eleanor Martin goes in search of sincerity through a mesmerising collection of Muslim heritage stories from Rumi, Uzbekistan, Iraq, Sa’adi and the Uyghur.

Returning by popular demand, join us for a cultural odyssey and spiritual quest in preparation for Ramadan.

Presented by Khayaal Theatre

IT WAS BRILLIANT AND CAPTIVATING!

FROM £12 AGE 8+

AUDIENCE MEMBER SEE PAGE 5 FOR INFO BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK

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INDIGO GIANT

THU 14 – SAT 16 MAR 1859. A field in Kanaipur, Bengal. Life-loving Sadhu Charan, an indigo farmer, is newly married to Kshetromani, a woman with visions of the future. At first, all is idyllic.

But when the new British Planter Rose arrives, full of strange desires, the creeping malignancy of the indigo system begins to strangle their happiness…

During the British Raj, to meet the world’s insatiable desire for blue, vast swathes of the Bengali countryside were given over to the cultivation of the indigo plant. The atrocities committed by British planters triggered an extraordinary revolution that changed Bengal forever.

FROM £12 AGE 14+ SEE PAGE 5 FOR INFO

Indigo Giant is a gripping, haunting new drama inspired by Dinabandhu Mitra’s trail-blazing Indigo Mirror, a play that shook colonial India.

Presented by Komola Collective

DISCOVERY SHOWCASE FRI 22 MAR

Join us for two special staged script in hand readings of four striking short plays by newly discovered West Midlands women writers of South Asian descent.

Directed by Helena Bell and Beth Kapila, with Dramaturgy by Aisha Khan, readings include: How To Be Brown by Hannah AliKhan, The Lost Lives by Kerena Jagpal, Conversation by Ilina Jha, and A Walk by Gurpreet Mann.

These readings are the culmination of Kali Theatre’s celebrated national programme to discover and develop talented new writers who aspire to be playwrights.

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Presented by Birmingham Rep in partnership with Kali Theatre

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THE PROMISE FRI 5 - SAT 13 APR Rita is really confused.

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WRITTEN BY PAULA GARFIELD & MELISSA MOSTYN

She can’t understand why the deaf education system she’s tirelessly championed throughout her teaching career is getting worse and worse, or why there is only one care home in the whole of England that looks after people in her language. On the Isle of Wight.

DIRECTED BY PAULA GARFIELD

She’s also confused about where her family is, and why she can’t remember where the milk goes…

FROM £10 AGE 14+

SEE PAGE 5 FOR INFO

This striking world premiere, made in association with acclaimed British theatre company Deafinitely Theatre (The Vagina Monologues, Everyday and 4.48 Psychosis), is inspired by the extraordinary experiences of deaf people living with dementia, and is directed in the company’s renowned highly visual style combining British Sign Language and English.

A Deafinitely Theatre, Birmingham Rep and Lyric Hammersmith production

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GET INVOLVED AT THE REP...

BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK/TAKE-PART

YOUNG REP BACKSTAGE

Young Rep Backstage is a fully funded course for those interested in a career in backstage theatre. Running from Sep 2023 until Jul 2024 - those on the course will learn skills in Lighting, Sound, Stage Crew, Stage Management, Wardrobe and Workshop.

Ages 18 - 25.

EARLY YEARS Meeting weekly on Saturday mornings in Spring 2024, join our newest and youngest youth theatre group! Through theatre games, puppetry, and creative fun, this group will help young people to develop their communication skills, confidence, and self-expression.

YOUTH THEATRE Aged between 7-25? Join one of our youth theatre companies for a range of weekly workshops directed by professional theatre-makers including opportunities to perform on the Rep’s stages.

We also lead youth theatre groups in partnership across the city and region.

Term fees: £80, bursaries available.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Please email young-rep@birmingham-rep.co.uk

Ages: 3-7. Term fees: £80, bursaries available.

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

Photo by Graeme Braidwood

ADULT DRAMA This diverse group of performers from across the city and the region meet weekly to share and create theatre finishing with a performance on one of The Rep’s stages!

Whatever your age or experience, sign up for Adult Drama now online.

Ages 25+.

Photo by Graeme Braidwood

I’VE FELT MYSELF GETTING BETTER NOT JUST AS AN ACTOR AND THEATRE-MAKER BUT AS A PERSON, LEARNING AND GROWING. YOUNG REP MEMBER

CULTURAL EDUCATION Our team of facilitators deliver bespoke workshops for schools and colleges across the whole curriculum and region, embedding creativity and connecting students to the theatre industry.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

Please email learning@birmingham-rep.co.uk

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Photo by Graeme Braidwood

TALENT DEVELOPMENT AT THE REP FEEDBACK FRIDAYS

WORKSHOPS AND MASTERCLASSES

Feedback Fridays is a new, monthly initiative for West Midlands based scriptwriters. Whether you’re an emerging or more established writer, if you’d like feedback and support from Directors at The Rep on a script you’re working on, you can apply. Five scripts are chosen monthly, and you’ll receive a detailed script report, recommendations and advice to help you develop and progress your work.

Submissions open at the end of each month on our website.

The Rep hosts a series of masterclasses and workshops throughout the year to support learning and development across the sector. We invite industry leaders and in-house professionals to deliver sessions.

DIRECTOR’S LINK UP Director’s Link Up is a bi-monthly meet up for Theatre Directors at any stage of their career. If you’re interested in linking up with other creative minds in an informal and valuable space for shared insights, networking and learning, this is for you.

You must be living, working or learning in the West Midlands to take part. A short registration form is available to download from our website.

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FOUNDRY Foundry is The Rep’s flagship artist development programme. Over 8 months of paid in-depth training, mentoring and facilitation practice in community settings, artists learn how to become skilled practitioners and co-creators.

Applications for Foundry 2024 will open early in the New Year.

For more information visit our website, or e-mail the team on talent.development@ birmingham-rep.co.uk

BACKSTAGE TOURS EXCITED BY THEATRE? Explore behind the scenes at The Rep and join us on a backstage tour around our fascinating building.

Visit spaces usually closed to the public, including our huge workshop, paint shop and wardrobe departments – you may even get to rub shoulders with an actor or two!

Our 90 minute tours take place twice a month. Check the website for dates and to book your tickets.

Look out for our Family Tours during the school holidays.

Tickets: Adults: £7 Children: £4 Visit birmingham-rep.co.uk/whats-on to find out more.

REP VOLUNTEERS

Here at The Rep we have a great group of fabulous volunteers who help us in a variety of ways. They love to share the stories of The Rep. WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE REP? We can travel to deliver exciting and engaging presentations to your group on the history and colourful stories of The Rep. Our current repertoire includes: • • • • • •

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe: From Page to Stage Notable Women of The Rep The Rep at War Christmas at The Rep Shakespeare at The Rep Backstage Stories from The Rep

If you would like more information about the talks and how to organise one, or how to get involved with volunteering please email reptalent@birmingham-rep.co.uk

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MAKE A DRAMATIC DIFFERENCE As a charity, The Rep fundraises to support inspiring and much needed programmes across the city. Through our outreach, education and talent development programmes we support children, vulnerable adults and emerging artists from Birmingham’s diverse communities.

By making a donation, you can help sustain and expand this vital work.

NAME A SEAT

Sponsor your very own seat in The House and make a lasting impression

FUND A BURSARY

Could you offer a young person the chance to unlock their potential?

BECOME A FRIEND

Come and join the fun, support The Rep by becoming a Member – see page 3 for further information

MAKE A DONATION

Scan here to donate any amount of your choice and help secure the future of The Rep To find out more about all of these options visit birmingham-rep.co.uk/support-us

The Rep was one of the main reasons I applied to drama school.

It was the first theatre I visited as a child and the first theatre I ever performed in. Without it my life may have taken a completely different course. The Rep’s impact goes far beyond the economic contribution it makes to my home city – it is an essential and vital pathway for aspiring talent, for creating truly world class productions and for welcoming back that talent when it has flowered.

– Adrian Lester CBE, Trustee of the Board

Registered Charity number 223660 35

WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

Photo by Kris Askey

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR GENEROUS DONORS, SPONSORS AND FUNDERS To find out more about the benefits enjoyed by our individual supporters and corporate sponsors email development@birmingham-rep.co.uk BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK

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ACCESS FACILITIES Spaces for wheelchair users are available for every performance in all of our auditoriums.

Accessible toilets are available on the ground floor and first floor. e offer an up-to-date Hearing Assistance system in all three of W our auditoriums. All of our counters are fitted with hearing loops.

Signed performances with British Signed Language interpretation.

Captioned performances translate spoken word and song to text on screen(s) at the side of the stage. udio Described performances offer a live description of A what’s happening on stage in addition to what the actors are saying. This can be done using headphones that you can borrow from The Rep, or through the Mobile Connect app. Most Audio Described performances are preceded by a Touch Tour.

Relaxed performances are designed to welcome people with a learning disability or sensory and communication conditions, or anyone that would benefit from a more relaxed performance environment. There is a relaxed attitude to noise and movement and some small changes made to the light and sound effects.

Chilled performances are designed to welcome anyone that would benefit from a more informal performance environment.

Similar to a Relaxed performance however, there are no changes to the content of the performance or auditorium lighting levels. e welcome assistance dogs throughout the theatre; they W can be taken into the auditorium or left with a member of staff during the performance. Just let us know what you prefer when making your booking.

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WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

ACCESS REGISTER JOIN THE ACCESS REGISTER

If you have a disability or additional access needs, or you book on behalf of someone who does, we’d recommend joining The Rep’s free Access Register. Access Register members get priority booking and discounted tickets for all performances, including a free companion ticket (subject to availability). They can also book priority locked seats including aisle seats and wheelchair spaces.

To join The Rep’s Access Register: • Call us on 0121 236 4455 • Email us at access@birmingham-rep.co.uk • Or login to ‘My Account’ at birmingham-rep.co.uk and choose ‘Other Preferences’.

AUDIENCES FORUM We are always looking for ways to improve our access provisions. If you would like to join the conversation, join our next access focus group.

Sessions take place on Zoom with BSL Interpreters and live captioning.

Email access@birmingham-rep.co.uk for further information.

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BOOKING INFORMATION BOOK ONLINE Book tickets 24/7 via our website at birmingham-rep.co.uk BOOK BY PHONE Call the Box Office on 0121 236 4455 and our friendly team will guide you through your booking and answer any questions about your visit.

Phone lines are open Monday to Saturday from 12 noon to 6pm.

BOOK IN PERSON On performance days, counter services will open 90 minutes before the start of the first scheduled performance.

On Sundays and Bank Holidays when a performance is scheduled, counter services open 60 minutes before the start of the first scheduled performance.

AGE GUIDELINES

On non-performance days, the Box Office counter service is closed.

Please check the age guideline for specific productions before booking.

DISCOUNTS AND CONCESSIONS Discounts are available for most productions for schools, groups and children

We ask that you do not bring children under the age of 5 into the auditorium, unless you are attending a Family Production or a specified Relaxed or Chilled performance.

Under 16s receive £5 off the advertised ticket price for most shows.*

Please see our diary on page 41 & 42 for a full performance schedule.

Aged 16 to 25? Join our Rep Beginners membership for just £5 and access an allocation of discounted tickets for productions.

UNDER 5s AND BABES IN ARMS

Schools can access discounted ticket rates and dedicated schools performances.* Group bookers can benefit from 10% off tickets for groups of 10+ 15% off tickets for groups of 20+ and 20% off tickets for groups of 50+* 39

WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

Photo by Graeme Braidwood

We welcome children under 5 to our family productions or specified relaxed and chilled performances.

Everyone admitted to the theatre needs a ticket and under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

Babes in Arms tickets are available for children 18 months and under when booked directly with the Box Office.

A nominal rate of £2 will be charged.

STAGE A2 B2 3 6 D3 DOOR A 0 E3 3 F3 6 G3 H4 7 0 I4 1 J4 4

K4

DOOR C

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A1

C19

C1

B1

W

D1

W

W

E1

DOOR B F1

G1

H1

I1

J1

K1

5

L4 6 W M 47 N4 8 O4 9 P5 0 Q4 9 R5 0

W

L1

DOOR D

M1 N1

O1 P1

Q1 R1 S1

S4 9 T4 6

T1

DOO

RE

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TRANSACTION FEE All orders are subject to a £2.50 transaction fee. This covers administration costs and enables us to provide a dedicated booking service.

Exclusions include Access Register members, Groups of 10+, School Groups and Rep Friends. Transaction fees are not applicable for free events.

For full terms and conditions, please visit birmingham-rep.co.uk/ terms-conditions HOW TO FIND US Birmingham Rep 6 Centenary Square Birmingham, B1 2EP ticketservices@birmingham-rep.co.uk Company number 00295910 Registered Charity number 223660

U1

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TICKET PROTECTION The Rep offers optional Ticket Protection to protect your booking through provider Ticket Plan.

For a fraction of the cost of your tickets, Ticket Protection allows you to re-coup 100% of the paid ticket price (including the associated transaction fee) if you are unable to make it to your event.

Terms & Conditions apply.

Find out more by visiting birmingham-rep.co.uk/bookinginfo

*Some exceptions apply.

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2023/24 CALENDAR 41

DATE DAY NOVEMBER 2023 1 Wed 2 Thu 3 Fri 4 Sat 10 Fri 11 Sat DECEMBER 2023 29 Fri 30 Sat FEBRUARY 2024 9 Fri 10 Sat 17 Sat 19 Mon 20 Tue 21 Wed 22 Thu 23 Fri 24 Sat 26 Mon 27 Tue 27 Tue 28 Wed 28 Wed 29 Thu 29 Thu 29 Thu MARCH 2024 1 Fri 1 Fri 2 Sat 2 Sat 2 Sat 4 Mon 5 Tue 6 Wed 7 Thu 8 Fri 9 Sat 11 Mon 12 Tue 13 Wed 14 Thu 14 Thu 15 Fri 16 Sat 16 Sat 22 Fri 22 Fri 23 Sat 25 Mon 26 Tue 27 Wed 28 Thu 30 Sat APRIL 2024 2 Tue 3 Wed 4 Thu 5 Fri 5 Fri 6 Sat 6 Sat 9 Tue 9 Tue 10 Wed 10 Wed 11 Thu 11 Thu 12 Fri 12 Fri 13 Sat 13 Sat 16 Tue 17 Wed 18 Thu 19 Fri 20 Sat

PRODUCTION

TIME(S)

VENUE

INFO

Brown Boys Swim Brown Boys Swim Brown Boys Swim Brown Boys Swim Waltzing The Blue Gods Waltzing The Blue Gods

8pm 3pm & 8pm 8pm 3pm & 8pm 8pm 8pm

The Door The Door The Door The Door The Door The Door

Post Show Talk (3pm)

Desi Central Comedy Show COBO: Kings of Comedy

6.45pm 8.15pm

The Studio The House

Can Bears Ski? Can Bears Ski? Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Black is the Color of My Voice Bhangra Nation Black is the Color of My Voice Bhangra Nation Tales Till Ramadan: Seeking Sincerity Black is the Color of My Voice

10.30am & 1.30pm 11am & 1pm 7:30pm 7.30pm 7:30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2:30pm & 7:30pm 7.30pm 7pm 7:45pm 7.30pm 7:45pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 6.30pm 7:45pm

The Door The Door The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The Studio The House The Studio The House The Door The Studio

Bhangra Nation Black is the Color of My Voice Tales Till Ramadan: Seeking Sincerity Bhangra Nation Black is the Color of My Voice Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Bhangra Nation Indigo Giant Indigo Giant Bhangra Nation Indigo Giant Minority Report Discovery Showcase Minority Report Minority Report Minority Report Minority Report Minority Report Minority Report

7.30pm 7:45pm 1.30pm & 6.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 2:45pm & 7:45pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7:30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 3pm & 8pm 7.30pm 3pm & 8pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm

The House The Studio The Door The House The Studio The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The Door The Door The House The Door The House The Door The House The House The House The House The House The House

Minority Report Minority Report Minority Report Minority Report The Promise Minority Report The Promise The Promise Blue Beard The Promise Blue Beard The Promise Blue Beard The Promise Blue Beard The Promise Blue Beard Blue Beard Blue Beard Blue Beard Blue Beard Blue Beard

7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 2pm & 7pm 7pm 7.30pm 7pm 7:30pm 2pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7pm 2.30pm & 7:30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm

The House The House The House The House The Door The House The Door The Door The House The Door The House The Door The House The Door The House The Door The House The House The House The House The House The House

WHAT’S ON AT THE REP

PREVIEW

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Preview Preview Preview Preview Preview

BSL Relaxed (2.30pm) Audio Described

Captioned

Audio Described (7:30pm)

Chilled (2.30pm)

BSL (7.30pm)

Captioned

Audio Described (2.30pm)

Captioned Relaxed

Audio Described (2:30pm) Captioned BSL (2.30pm)

Relaxed (7:30pm)

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PRODUCTION

TIME(S)

VENUE

Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Withnail and I Sukh Ojla

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.45pm

The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The House The Studio

Ballet Black: HEROES Ballet Black: HEROES

7.30pm 7.30pm

The House The House

INFO Preview Preview Preview Preview

2023/24 CALENDAR

DATE DAY MAY 2024 3 Fri 4 Sat 7 Tue 8 Wed 9 Thu 10 Fri 11 Sat 13 Mon 14 Tue 15 Wed 16 Thu 17 Fri 18 Sat 20 Mon 21 Tue 22 Wed 23 Thu 24 Fri 25 Sat 25 Sat JUNE 2024 13 Thu 14 Fri

8

8 BSL

8 Captioned Relaxed (2.30pm) Audio Described (2.30pm)

DON’T MISS...

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE TUE 14 NOV 23 - SUN 28 JAN 24

Audio Described Sat 2 Dec 7pm Fri 22 Dec 7pm Wed 3 Jan 2pm Fri 19 Jan 7pm BSL Interpreted Sat 25 Nov 7pm Thu 14 Dec 10.15am Wed 29 Dec 2pm Sat 20 Jan 2pm Captioned All performances Captioned

LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD

Relaxed Thu 23 Nov 7pm Sat 9 Dec 2pm Thu 28 Dec 2pm Thu 25 Jan 10.15am

THU 7 DEC 23 – SAT 6 JAN 24

Audio Described Sat 16 Dec 12pm BSL Interpreted Wed 13 Dec 11am Fri 29 Dec 3pm Captioned Fri 15 Dec 12pm Thu 21 Dec 3pm Relaxed Thu 28 Dec 11am

Please check our website for the full performance schedule.

All details correct October 2023 at the time of going to print.

Brochure printed on UPM Fine made from FSC® certified and traceable pulp sources.

Design by Luke Tonge (luketonge.com).

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Since taking over as Artistic Director, Sean Foley is really impressing – not only with the choice of shows, but also the fact that The Rep is now producing so many home-grown shows BRUMHOUR

This group of young people are a credit to young actors in Birmingham and the talent we have to showcase across the city REDBRICK ON THE TRIALS, PART OF THE ORDER & CHAOS FESTIVAL

From the moment we stepped into the theatre we were swept away

It’s so good it’s off the scale BROMSGROVE STANDARD ON SINATRA THE MUSICAL

Comedy at its very best THE REVIEWS HUB ON NOISES OFF

One of the most entertaining, funny shows I’ve ever seen.

Just brilliant! Fantastic show and cast!

AUDIENCE MEMBER ON NOISES OFF

Full house, breath-taking silence, tears and laughter from the audience. Total standing ovation at the end, so well deserved AUDIENCE MEMBER ON I, DANIEL BLAKE

BIRMINGHAM MAIL ON SINATRA THE MUSICAL

It’s slick, elegant, tuneful, sophisticated, witty and, above all, wonderful entertainment BEHIND THE ARRAS ON SINATRA THE MUSICAL

It will stay with me forever BIRMINGHAM LIVE ON OF MICE AND MEN

LIVE THEATRE AT

One of the most emotional and powerful pieces of theatre I’ve even seen AUDIENCE MEMBER ON I, DANIEL BLAKE