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MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER
UPGRADE TO A SILVER OR GOLD MEMBERSHIP FOR EXCLUSIVE BEHIND THE SCENES EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES
by Geraint Lewis
Welcome to a new season at The Rep!
We’re Birmingham’s producing theatre and we’re proud to bring national and international talent to our city to make shows that go on to play in the West End and tour nationally and internationally
We’ve got a fantastic line up of shows to tempt you in over the next few months – many of them home-grown plays and musicals made here in Birmingham by an extraordinary array of creative talent.
We open with blockbuster new musical Becoming Nancy – directed by the Master of Musicals, Jerry Mitchell. A coming of age story that captures the highs and lows of first love and brings to life 1970s Britain with its pop culture, politics and dubious haircuts, it’s a musical with a big heart! Funny, tender and full of fabulous tunes, see it here first.
We have three Christmas shows across our stages this year featuring festive snowflakes, snowmen and ghosts!
A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story brings Dickens’ classic to The Rep for the first time in over a decade and re-told by Mark Gatiss is full of special effects and properly scary. For our younger audiences The Snowflake is a magical tale of a little girl, finding her own special place in the world. And just after Christmas, The Rep’s very own classic The Snowman returns. An enchanting story combined with one of the most memorable musical scores ever (Walking in the Air) The Snowman is a timeless festive treat.
As the season continues into spring, we return to our roots with drama taking centre stage in our programme. In our main auditorium classic plays, book adaptations and contemporary comedies all feature in a packed season. We welcome back former Artistic Director, Roxana Silbert , with a brand-new production of A Thousand Splendid Suns, adapted from Khaled Hosseini ’s bestselling novel. And we present two Birmingham premieres in The Door: Community by Farrah Chaudhry and Good for a Girl by Becky Deeks
Rep favourites Ballet Black return with an all-new programme, while hip hop dance company Boy Blue and Windrush musical Jamaica Love both make their Birmingham debuts.
Whilst we continue our search for The Rep’s new Artistic Director, I’m delighted to introduce newly appointed Deputy Artistic Director, Madeleine Kludje, stepping into the role after five years as Associate Director. Madeleine’s passion for finding diverse stories and commitment to developing new artistic voices has long been shaping our programmes and will do so even more in the years to come.
We look forward to welcoming you to the theatre soon.
RACHAEL THOMAS CHIEF EXECUTIVE
MADELEINE KLUDJE DEPUTY ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
HIGHL IGH T S
So many shows and not sure what to pick? Here’s our guide for what to look out for...
Want to try the best in UK Premieres? Don’t miss...
Becoming Nancy on page 6
Coraline on page 27
Community on page 28
Looking for a family friendly show? We’ve got you covered! Check out...
Pied Piper on page 4
The Very Hungry Caterpillar on page 32
The Worst Princess on page 32
The Boy With Wings on page 33
Searching for a Christmas Treat? Why not try...
A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story on page 9
The Snowflake on page 11
The Snowman on page 13
After the best in story-telling? Look at...
Birdsong on page 14
The Merchant of Venice 1936 on page 22
A Thousand Splendid Suns on page 24
Little Women on page 26
Need an evening of laugh-out-loud comedy? Try...
COBO: Comedy Shutdown on page 4
Live at The Rep on page 4
Fun! with Barbara Nice on page 31
Want to experience breathtaking dance? Check out...
Boy Blue’s Cycles on page 17
Ballet Black on page 20
For just £5 per year, you’ll receive access to discounted tickets for our exceptional range of theatre productions for 12 months plus priority booking. To sign up and for more info
Book the same number of tickets for 3 different 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. T&Cs apply.
Available for selected performances for the following productions:
BECOMING NANCY COMING TO ENGLAND DEATH OF A SALESMAN THE SHARK IS BROKEN A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS LITTLE WOMEN CORALINE
LAST CHANCE TO SEE...
MON 4 – WED 6 NOV WHY I STUCK A FLARE UP MY ARSE FOR ENGLAND
FRI 8 & SAT 9 NOV THE MAN WHO THOUGHT HE KNEW TOO MUCH
FRI 15 & SAT 16 NOV ROTTEN
MON 18 NOV NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE – PRIMA FACIE
FRI 22 & SAT 23 NOV LIVE
BOOK BY ELLIOT DAVIS
ORIGINAL SONGS – MUSIC BY GEORGE STILES
ORIGINAL SONGS – LYRICS BY ANTHONY DREWE
ADDITIONAL SONGS BY ELLIOT DAVIS, TERRY RONALD & GEORGE STILES
BASED ON THE NOVEL BY TERRY RONALD
DIRECTED & CHOREOGRAPHED BY JERRY MITCHELL
FROM £15 AGE 11+
SEE PAGE 3 FOR INFO
A REP ORIGINAL
BECOMING NANCY
WED 2 OCT – SAT 2 NOV
It’s 1979 and David Starr is unquestionably one of the smartest, most talented sixth-formers in East Dulwich – he’s got a wild imagination, a vocal range to die for, and a bedroom plastered with posters of his beloved pop idols: Blondie, Sting, and Kate Bush.
But being clever, with a great taste in music, may not be enough to get him through secondary school, where, to his great surprise, he’s given the lead role of Nancy in the school play, Oliver... The unconventional casting sends shockwaves through David’s small town, first with David, and then with his parents, his aunt, and his classmates.
This eagerly anticipated coming-of-age story is directed and choreographed by two-time Tony Award-winner Jerry Mitchell, legendary director of blockbuster musicals including Legally Blonde, Kinky Boots, The Devil Wears Prada, Hairspray, Pretty Woman: The Musical and many more.
With smash-hit songs by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, Becoming Nancy is a feel good, joyous, new musical that weaves a story of family and first loves, with the courage it takes to find your own spotlight.
See it first in the UK at The Rep this autumn!
Presented by Birmingham Rep
FEATURED IN...
THE GUARDIAN
ARTS PREVIEW LIST FOR AUTUMN 2024
SEE DIARY ON PAGE 42 & 43 FOR INFO
WHATSONSTAGE
NEW MUSICALS TO SEE IN AUTUMN 2024
IRRESISTIBLY THEATRICAL! MARK GATISS’ FABULOUS TAKE ON DICKENS
DAILY TELEGRAPH
BASED ON THE NOVEL BY CHARLES DICKENS
ADAPTED BY MARK GATISS
DIRECTED BY ADAM PENFORD
FROM
MADE WITH THE REP
A CHRISTMAS CAROL: A GHOST STORY
THU 14 NOV - SUN 5 JAN
Mark Gatiss’ acclaimed retelling of Dickens’ winter ghost story visits The Rep this Christmas.
It’s a cold Christmas Eve and mean-spirited Ebenezer Scrooge has an unexpected visit from the spirit of his former business partner Jacob Marley. Bound in chains as punishment for a lifetime of greed, the unearthly figure explains it isn’t too late for Scrooge to change his miserly ways in order to escape the same fate, but first he’ll have to face three more eerie encounters ...
Starring Matthew Cottle as Scrooge and Rufus Hound as Marley, and filled with with Dickensian, spine-tingling special effects, prepare to be frightened and delighted in equal measure as you enter the supernatural Victorian world of A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story. Birmingham Rep presents The Nottingham Playhouse Production in association with Eleanor Lloyd Productions and Eilene Davidson Productions.
HEARTWARMING AND FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY
ENTERTAINMENT VIEWS ON THE DOOR CHRISTMAS SHOW 22/23
JACK & THE MAGIC BEANSTALK
BASED ON THE BOOK BY BENJI DAVIES
ADAPTED & DIRECTED BY MATT ASTON FROM £10 FOR AGES
3-6 & THEIR FAMILIES
A REP ORIGINAL FAMILY SHOW
THE SNOWFLAKE
THU 5 DEC – SUN 12 JAN
Wherever the wind takes us, we all find a place to land…
Based on the timeless Christmas story by Benji Davies , The Snowflake tells the tale of a snowflake, a little girl and her Grandpa – all longing for their own special place in the world.
Unwrap the magic at The Rep this festive season and find out how everyone can find their way to shine like a star!
Our beloved Christmas production returns in The Door, offering the perfect introduction to theatre for our younger audiences.
Co-produced by Birmingham Rep, Polka Theatre and Little Angel Theatre.
THE PERFECT SHOW TO INTRODUCE YOUNGSTERS TO THE MAGICAL WORLD OF THEATRE
I AM BIRMINGHAM ON THE DOOR CHRISTMAS SHOW 22/23 JACK & THE MAGIC BEANSTALK
LIVELY AND ENGAGING
CULTURE BAB ON THE DOOR CHRISTMAS SHOW 23/24
LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD SEE DIARY ON PAGE 42 & 43 FOR INFO
AN ENCHANTING TALE, PERFECTLY ADAPTED WITH LITTLE ONES FIRMLY IN MIND
YORKSHIRE TIMES ON THE STORM WHALE - ADAPTED & DIRECTED BY MATT ASTON
BASED ON THE BOOK BY RAYMOND BRIGGS
MUSIC & LYRICS BY HOWARD BLAKE
CHOREOGRAPHY BY ROBERT NORTH
DIRECTED BY BILL ALEXANDER
DESIGN BY RUARI MURCHISON
LIGHTING DESIGN BY TIM MITCHELL FROM
The Rep’s enchanting production of The Snowman has been delighting audiences for over 30 years and is the West End’s longest running Christmas show. It returns home this festive season to give Birmingham audiences the chance to be part of the magic!
When a young boy’s snowman comes to life, the two set off on a night-time quest for adventure. They meet Father Christmas, dancing penguins, reindeer and crowds of The Snowman’s friends, but will they escape evil Jack Frost and get back home for Christmas morning?
Based on Raymond Briggs’ much-loved book and featuring Howard Blake’s classic song Walking In The Air, don’t miss this beautiful and spine-tingling live show for all the family.
Presented by Birmingham Rep.
PERFECTLY CRAFTED AND WILL ENTERTAIN EVERYBODY NO MATTER THEIR AGE
REVIEWS
BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SEBASTIAN FAULKS
ADAPTED BY RACHEL WAGSTAFF
BIRDSONG
MON 27 JAN – SAT 1 FEB
Sebastian Faulks’ epic story of love and loss returns to the stage, marking the 30th anniversary of the international best-selling novel.
DIRECTED BY ALASTAIR WHATLEY
FROM £19.50 AGE 15+ SEE
The critically acclaimed show returns in a brand-new production for 2025. Telling the story of one man’s journey through an all-consuming love affair and into the horror of the First World War.
A mesmerising story of love and courage. Set both before and during the Great War. Once seen never forgotten.
Starring award-winning actor Max Bowden, best known for the role of Ben Mitchell in EastEnders, James Esler (Litvinenko) and Charlie Russell (The Goes Wrong Show, And Then There Were None (BBC) and produced by the award-winning Original Theatre, who brought you the smash hit productions of Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d, Murder in the Dark and The Habit of Art.
WRITTEN BY ISOBEL MCARTHUR AFTER JANE AUSTEN FROM
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE* (*SORT OF)
MON 3 – SAT 8 FEB
Back by popular demand, Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) returns to The Rep, direct from its triumph in the West End. This unique and audacious retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic love story won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy and the Evening Standard Award.
Men, money and microphones will be fought over in this irreverent but affectionate adaptation where the stakes couldn’t be higher when it comes to romance. This multi-award-winning production features a string of pop classics including Young Hearts Run Free, Will You Love Me Tomorrow and You’re So Vain
It’s the 1800s. It’s party time. Let the ruthless matchmaking begin!
Presented by David Pugh and Cunard with the Newcastle Theatre Royal.
BASED ON THE BOOK BY FLOELLA BENJAMIN
ADAPTED BY DAVID WOOD
FROM £15
AGE 8+
COMING TO ENGLAND
WED 19 - SAT 22 FEB
An inspirational story of hope, determination and triumph. Returning to The Rep by popular demand and in a brand new production, Floella Benjamin’s award-winning and iconic book Coming to England comes to life in this joyful stage adaptation with music, storytelling and song.
Much loved by children and families, Coming to England tells Floella’s own story of moving to England as a child. Aged just 10, she and her siblings left Trinidad and sailed alone to join their parents. But Floella’s excitement for her new life in England is short-lived, with her family subjected to racism and intolerance in 1960s’ London.
Guided by her mother, and working twice as hard as her classmates, learn how a young Floella overcame adversity and grew to become Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham.
Adapted for the stage by David Wood (“the national children’s dramatist ” – The Times) this vibrant and energetic show is the perfect entertainment for the whole family.
A VIBRANT, COLOURFUL CELEBRATION OF THE LIFE OF FLOELLA BENJAMIN...ULTIMATELY UPLIFTING THE REVIEWS HUB
CYCLES
FRI 7 & SAT 8 MAR
FROM £17.50 AGE 12+
Cycles is movement at its most fluid, distilled and skilled. Resolute and unapologetic, Boy Blue’s latest production is a tenacious exploration of hip-hop dance in all its forms.
Experience the connection between the movement on stage and the rhythm, groove and bounce of the music, as nine powerful dancers fill the space in what feels like unending motion.
TERRIFIC NEW PIECE FROM HIP-HOP COMPANY BOY BLUE IS A LOVE LETTER TO THE EUPHORIA YOU EXPERIENCE WHEN YOU COMPLETELY SURRENDER TO MUSIC THE TELEGRAPH
WRITTEN BY ARTHUR MILLER
DIRECTED BY ANDY ARNOLD
DEATH OF A SALESMAN
TUE 11 - SAT 15 MAR
Step into the fading American Dream in Arthur Miller ’s masterpiece Death of a Salesman
This gripping tale pitting a father’s expectations against his sons’ realities is as relevant and as poignant now as it was when it first exploded on the theatre scene in 1949.
With star casting to be announced, this Pulitzer Prize-winning play is back in a new production, taking you on an enthralling journey through the final 24 hours of Willy Loman’s life.
Don’t miss this powerful exploration of ambition, delusion, and the cost of chasing an elusive ideal in post-war America.
Presented by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Limited.
BOYS FROM THE BLACK STUFF
TUE 18 - SAT 22 MAR FROM £25 AGE 10+
Gizza job. Go on, gizzit
80s Liverpool.
Chrissie, Loggo, George, Dixie and Yosser are used to hard work and providing for their families. But there is no work and there is no money. What are they supposed to do? Work harder, work longer, buy cheaper, spend less? They just need a chance.
Life is tough but the lads can play the game. Find jobs, avoid the ‘sniffers’ and see if you can have a laugh along the way.
James Graham’s powerful new adaptation of Alan Bleasdale’s BAFTA award-winning TV series is directed by Kate Wasserberg and comes to The Rep direct from the National Theatre and the West End.
Bill Kenwright Ltd presents the Liverpool’s Royal Court and National Theatre production.
BALLET BLACK: DOUBLE BILL
THU 27 & FRI 28 MAR FROM £22.50
AGE 7+
DYNAMIC, CONTEMPORARY, ALTERNATELY WITTY AND EFFECTUAL
STAGE TALK MAGAZINE
Now in its 23rd year, Cassa Pancho’s Ballet Black returns to The Rep.
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.
BALLET BLACK HAS BUILT UP AN ENVIABLE REPUTATION AS A DYNAMIC, INNOVATIVE AND EXCITING COMPANY BEHIND THE ARRAS A WHIRLWIND OF A COMPANY BRINGING NEW AND EXCITING DANCE TO BIRMINGHAM
CULTURE BAB
MYRA’S STORY
SAT 1 MAR
JAMAICA LOVE
SAT 29 & SUN 30 MAR
Direct from the West End, this is the incredible story of middle-aged homeless alcoholic, Myra McLaughlin living rough on the streets of Dublin.
As she begs from passers-by at her regular spot by Ha’penny Bridge, Myra recreates her rollercoaster backstory. Playing all the larger-than-life Dublin characters, acting out all the hilarious/tragic/ heartbreaking events in her life that have taken her to this pitiful state.
You’ll laugh with Myra. You’ll cry with Myra. What you’ll never do is forget her.
FROM £19.50 AGE 14+
SEE PAGE 3 FOR INFO
Feel the rhythm of Reggae as you enjoy the legendary vocals of John McLean, the soulful harmonies of Celia Wickham-Anderson (of Black Voices fame), and the vibrant sounds of our amazing live band as they take you on a journey through Jamaica’s rich musical heritage—from ska and rocksteady to reggae.
Written and directed by Mervyn Weir, immerse yourself in an evening of compelling storytelling, humour, and unforgettable music that delves into themes of identity, resistance, and resilience.
Nominated for Best Musical Production & Best Musical Director at the Black British Theatre Awards 2024.
FROM £27.50 AGE 10+
THE BBC BIG BAND: THE ART OF SWING
SUN 25 MAY
SEE PAGE 3 FOR INFO
The internationally acclaimed The BBC Big Band is joined by multi award-winning vocalist, Claire Martin, for a musical journey celebrating ‘The Art of Swing’.
Through a wonderfully diverse repertoire, arranged and curated by the The BBC Big Band ’s conductor, Barry Forgie and Claire Martin, the concert celebrates the music of the twentieth century’s quintessential Big Band, Swing orchestras, and vocalists - whose legacy and influence continues to define a classic era of music.
WORLD-CLASS MUSICIANS
MUSICAL FORCE
FROM £29.50
WRITTEN BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE
DIRECTED BY
BRIGID LARMOUR
ADAPTED BY BRIGID LARMOUR & TRACY-ANN OBERMAN
FROM £17.50
AGE 12+
THE MERCHANT OF VENICE 1936
TUE 1 – SAT 5 APR
Ambition, power and political unrest explode onto the stage in The Merchant of Venice 1936, direct from selling out the RSC and London’s West End.
Starring Tracy-Ann Oberman (EastEnders, Doctor Who) as Shylock, Shakespeare’s classic is transported to 1930s Britain in this “striking and impactful ” (The Guardian) new production that “makes theatre history” (The Telegraph).
Tensions in London’s East End are rising and Shylock, a resilient single mother and hard-working businesswoman, is desperate to protect her daughter’s future. When the charismatic merchant Antonio comes to her for a loan, a high-stakes deal is struck. Will Shylock take her revenge, and who will pay the ultimate price?
A STRIKING, SLICK ADAPTATION
THE GUARDIAN
THE SHARK IS BROKEN
TUE 6 - SAT 10 MAY
THE WEST END AND BROADWAY SMASH HIT PLAY
FROM
Dive into the drama behind the scenes of Jaws...
Fade in: The open ocean, 1974. Filming is delayed again. The lead actors – theatre veteran Robert Shaw and young Hollywood hotshots Richard Dreyfuss and Roy Scheider –are crammed into a too-small boat, entirely at the mercy of foul weather and a faulty mechanical co-star. Alcohol flows, egos collide, and tempers flare on a chaotic voyage that just might lead to cinematic magic if it doesn’t sink them all.
Step aboard the Orca and into the Oliver Award-nominated new play The Shark Is Broken, starring Ian Shaw (War Horse, Common) as his father, Robert.
Short tempers. Short circuits. 95 minutes, no intermission.
BY URSULA RANI SARMA
A
REP
ORIGINAL DRAMA
A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS
FRI 11 APR – SAT 3 MAY
M I E R E •
The Rep presents a powerful new production of A Thousand Splendid Suns, Khaled Hosseini’s spiritual sequel to The Kite Runner
FROM £19.50
AGE 14+
SEE PAGE 3 FOR INFO
In 1992 in an Afghanistan ravaged by war, an orphaned Laila is left alone in an increasingly threatening world. Her older neighbour Rasheed is quick to open his home and takes Laila as his second wife.
Rasheed’s first wife Mariam has no choice but to accept her younger, and now pregnant, rival. As the Taliban take over, life for all of them becomes a desperate struggle against starvation, brutality and fear, and the two women find themselves unlikely allies.
Former Rep and Hampstead Theatre Artistic Director Roxana Silbert returns to Birmingham to direct this unflinching, life affirming drama, in which love grows and sustains the human spirit even during the hardest of times.
A Birmingham Rep, Nottingham Playhouse & Leeds Playhouse co-production.
BASED ON THE NOVEL BY LOUISA MAY ALCOTT
ADAPTED BY ANNE-MARIE CASEY FROM £19.50 AGE 14+
LITTLE WOMEN
TUE 20 - SAT 24 MAY
Anne-Marie Casey’s masterful new adaptation of Little Women breathes fresh life into one of the best loved novels of all time.
Step into a world of sisterhood, courage and ambition, as the March sisters - tomboy Jo, beautiful Meg, sensitive Beth, and spoilt Amy - navigate the challenges of the Civil War era, forging unbreakable bonds of love and family.
Inspired by author Louisa May Alcott’s own journey into womanhood, Little Women is as relevant today as it was at the time of its first release, proving that women can be bold, persistent, self-assured, and the heroes of their own story.
This beautiful new adaptation is a celebration of women, filled with laughter, tears, and a theatrical, heart-warming lifting of the spirits.
ANNE-MARIE CASEY BOTTLES THE STORY’S MAGIC
DAILY MAIL
THE TELEGRAPH
BASED ON THE ORIGINAL NOVEL BY NEIL GAIMAN
DIRECTED BY JAMES BRINING
BOOK BY ZINNIE HARRIS MUSIC & LYRICS BY LOUIS
“What does your shadow do, when the lights go out and you are in the dark all on your own?”
There is something not quite right about the house Coraline and her parents have moved into. The roof leaks, the wallpaper is peeling off the walls, the new neighbours are a little eccentric and her parents are so busy they hardly notice her at all.
As Coraline explores her new home, she discovers a mysterious door, an entrance to a parallel world where all seems perfect. But not everything is as it seems –and everyone has buttons for eyes!
Join us for a spine-tingling new musical based on the popular novel by Neil Gaiman (The Ocean at the End of the Lane, Good Omens, Doctor Who) that reunites director James Brining and Set & Costume Designer Colin Richmond following the five-star success of Oliver!
Presented by Birmingham Rep, Leeds Playhouse, Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh and HOME Manchester.
WRITTEN BY FARRAH CHAUDHRY
DIRECTED BY ALICE CHAMBERS
FROM £10
AGE 14+
COMMUNITY
THU 30 JAN - SAT 8 FEB
Friends Leyla and Zoya are polar opposites. Zoya is pampered, indulged and lacking purpose, and Leyla is hardworking, dependable and dedicates her time to helping others. Zoya has lived a privileged (spoilt!) life in a nice part of town, whereas Leyla lives on the other side of town with her housemate Khalil, a refugee from Syria.
When Zoya’s parents cut her off, she turns to old friend Leyla for help. Comedy ensues when Zoya is forced to start volunteering at the community centre and actually start thinking about others for once.
Things are going well until Zoya lets Leyla down at a talent contest at the community centre, just as her parents offer her the opportunity to go back home. Will Zoya bite their hand off or will she stay and fix things with Leyla?
Set in the heart of Birmingham, Community is a comingof-age comedy drama exploring identity and belonging, and friendship.
A graduate of Rep Foundry and a proud Brummie, Farrah writes about relationships, identity and race through the lens of a woman of colour in today’s world.
Supported by The Sir Barry Jackson Trust.
TALES TILL RAMADAN
THU 13 - SAT 15 FEB
Like the Ramadan crescent, sincerity can be elusive. With her sights set on sincerity, Eleanor Martin takes a journey of spiritual quest through a mesmerising collection of Muslim heritage stories from Rumi, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Somalia and Iraq in this one woman show.
FROM £12 AGE 8+
GOOD FOR A GIRL
WED 19 – SAT 22 FEB
Join Queensgate FC as they reach the final rounds of the Women’s FA Cup for the first time ever. Can this record-breaking team overcome the challenges ahead?
Written by Becky Deeks and directed by Lucy Wild, Good for a Girl is a dynamic, comedic and hard-hitting play revealing the highs and lows of women in football, celebrating their resilience whilst exposing the inequalities they face on and off the pitch.
FROM £12 AGE 14+
TINY FRAGMENTS OF BEAUTIFUL LIGHT
TUE 4 - THU 6 MAR
Elsa doesn’t know why she’s never quite fit in. Perhaps it’s just the way she’s made? She’s quirky, kind, clever and funny, but school was always a nightmare, and romance was a mystery, until now...
This is one woman’s journey of self-discovery: a celebration of the joy that comes when we live as we truly are.
FROM £12 AGE 12+
FRI 7 & SAT 8 MAR
£12
15+ SEE PAGE 3 FOR INFO EVERYWHERE THU 27 MAR
M is a woman. M is a writer. M is a mother. Catapulted from the crest of a hit play and hijacked by motherhood - the wild nights out have been replaced by evenings in with baby and a breastpump. Suddenly M is burnt out, angry, lonely, unsure and, quite frankly, terrified of the future.
She wants to tell her story, her way. But, as she spills her guts and starts to write, everyone around her shares their opinions on who she is, who she should be and how she’s f*cking everything up.
From award-winning writer Jane Upton, this 2022 Bruntwood Prize shortlisted play is relatable, funny and a painful scream from the abyss of early motherhood.
FROM £12 AGE 14+
SEE PAGE 3 FOR INFO
tiata fahodzi presents Everywhere - a triple bill of short plays presented together, driven by a provocation about what we do in what spaces matter
Drama and conflict are things that we experience as humans everywhere beyond the limitations of a theatre space, and these 3 commissioned writers are exploring what that means to them in short form.
Working with brilliant actors and creatives, the triple bill 30-minute pieces will bring some of best established and emerging talent from theatre to tell original and diverse stories that take us from displacement to maternity wards.
Writers include Yusra Warsama, Magero and Anyebe Godwin.
ALL MY PRETTY ONES
WED 14 – SAT 17 MAY
FROM £10 AGE 14+
FUN! WITH BARBARA NICE
THU 12 – SAT 14 JUN
FROM £12 AGE 14+
10th June 1944. A peaceful summer’s day in the French village of Oradour Sur Glane. A terrible tragedy is about to unfold. As the villagers prepare for a local festival, by the late afternoon the German SS approach.
80 years later three young students, British, French and German are stranded at a deserted railway station. They are about to embark on a journey that will change their lives forever...
Would you like to have some FUN! with Queen of Comedy Barbara Nice?
With her Over-60s bus pass tucked safely into her bestest handbag, the nation’s favourite housewife is touring the country, bringing joy and laughter to every destination.
A WARM AND WONDERFUL ACT, AN ENTHUSIASTIC, LIVEWIRE FORCE OF NATURE
CHORTLE
THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR SHOW
MON 14 & TUE 15 APR
Four timeless stories brought to life in one delightful show. Dive into Eric Carle’s bright and colourful world as his beloved stories are transformed from page to stage using a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets and charming music.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show is a vibrant celebration of Carle’s adored classics and is the perfect introduction to live theatre.
THE WORST PRINCESS
WED 23 APR
Feisty Sue is not your everyday fairy tale superstar, in fact she’s The Worst Princess.
After being rescued by her twit of a prince she’s ready to start her happy end. But first she’ll have to make friends with a dragon, escape from a tower and set the Prince’s pants on fire with her new firebreathing bestie. Will Sue find her happily ever after?
Full House Theatre presents this laughout-loud show featuring cool puppets, sing along pop anthems and a dazzling largerthan-life dragon, as this bestselling picture book is brought to life on stage.
“AN ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT SHOW, THE CHILDREN WERE UTTERLY CAPTIVATED BY THE ACTORS AND THE PUPPETS.” AUDIENCE COMMENT
An ordinary kid is about to become an EXTRAORDINARY hero!
Wings? Check. A super-cool, super-secret past? Check.
An impossible mission to save the entire galaxy. Check.
When Tunde sprouts wings and learns that his father is a ferocious alien warrior, he’s all that stands between the galaxy and total destruction - suddenly his parents and school aren’t all he has to contend with.
Luckily, his rag-tag group of pals have got his back, and with his new powers, Tunde is ready to fly in the face of danger - this is his destiny. No pressure then...
Adapted by Arvind Ethan David from Sir Lenny Henry’s hilarious book, The Boy with Wings is an interstellar, action-packed adventure about friendships, being brave, and how our differences are our super-power!
TAKE PART!
YOUTH THEATRE
Aged between 7-26? 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.
Join our waiting list
E mail youngrep@birmingham-rep.co.uk for more information, or visit our website.
Term fees
£85, bursaries available
YOUNG REP
EARLY YEARS
Meeting weekly on Saturday mornings, join our newest and youngest youth theatre groups! Through drama games, puppetry, storytelling, and more, joining Young Rep will help young people to develop their communication skills, confidence, and self-expression. Parents and carers are also invited to regular mini performances!
Young Rep Play Time Pre-School and Reception
Young Rep Beginners School Years 1 and 2
Term fees
£85 per term, bursaries available
“MY CHILD HAS STARTED TO COME OUT OF HIS SHELL. THE TEAM ARE AMAZING AND REALLY MAKE THE EXPERIENCE A SAFE AND NURTURING SPACE FOR CHILDREN.”
PARENT OF YOUNG REP EARLY YEARS PARTICIPANT
YOUTH BOARD
Our Youth Board gives young people the opportunity to have a meaningful impact on the vision and direction of The Rep. The board is made up of Young Rep members and young people from the local community, providing The Rep Board of Trustees with valuable feedback and ideas.
Register your interest
Email learning@birmingham-rep.co.uk
OPEN DAY
Join us on Sun 27 Apr for a free day of activities for theatre lovers of all ages. Go behind the scenes of Birmingham’s only producing theatre.
Highlights include talks, workshops, tours and our annual costume sale.
No booking required – keep an eye out on our website and social media for more information.
SCHOOLS PARTNERSHIPS & WORKSHOPS
We strive to embed creativity across the curriculum and connect students directly to the theatre industry. Our team of facilitators deliver bespoke workshops tailored to a variety of educational settings throughout the region, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to engage with the arts in a meaningful way.
The Creative Learning Partnerships programme offers schools opportunities to integrate drama and arts into its curriculum for the entire school year.
Register your interest
One-off bespoke workshops are available to book, designed to fit a variety of budgets, from as little as £185 +VAT.
Whether you’re interested in a one-off workshop or want to explore becoming a partner school, to learn more, email learning@birmingham-rep.co.uk
by Graeme Braidwood
BEDLAM ARTS & MENTAL HEALTH SHOWCASE
Thu 28 & Fri 29 Nov
Join us in The Door for a celebration of the arts, mental health and wellbeing including comedy, dance, spoken word and drama.
This event is presented by professional artists and participants who have taken part in projects supported by the partnership between Birmingham & Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Sampad, MAC, Red Earth Collective and The Rep.
Tickets
£6
BURSARIES AVAILABLE
We want all of our workshops at The Rep to be open and accessible to all people who want to take part. We actively seek to remove any barriers, including financial, that might prevent you feeling like you can access our work.
To enquire about bursaries, please email learning@birmingham-rep.co.uk
TALENT DEVELOPMENT
SCRIPTWRITING
Feedback Fridays is The Rep’s bi-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 each time, and you’ll receive a detailed script report, recommendations and advice to help you develop and progress your work. Apply on our website.
DIRECTOR’S LINK UP
Director’s Link Up is a regular 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. Upcoming dates plus a short registration form is available to complete on our website.
WORKSHOPS AND MASTERCLASSES
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. For more information, please visit our website.
FOUNDRY
Foundry is The Rep’s flagship artist development programme. 7 artists are training with us from April - December 2024; taking part in paid, in-depth training, coaching and facilitation practice in community settings across the West Midlands. For more information about this year’s Foundry cohort, and future updates, please visit birmingham-rep.co.uk/foundry
R&DS (RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT)
Artists or companies can apply for R&D opportunities throughout the year to develop a project, play or performance in an established and supportive setting.
For more information about any of our opportunities, 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.
We also run Family Tours during the school holidays. Children get to experience what it may like to have a job in the theatre, pick up skills needed for running a production, and learn more about previous productions that have been held at The Rep.
Tickets: Adults: £8 Children: £6
Visit birmingham-rep.co.uk/whats-on to find out more.
by Kris Askey
MAKE A DRAMATIC DIFFERENCE
As a charity, The Rep fundraises to support inspiring and much needed initiatives across the city.
Through our Creative Learning, Community and Talent Development programmes we support children, vulnerable adults and emerging artists from Birmingham’s diverse communities.
NAME A SEAT
Sponsor your very own seat in The House and support our pioneering productions. From £250
FUND A BURSARY
Could you offer a young person the chance to unlock their potential? From £95 per term.
GIFT A FRIEND
Gift the theatre lover in your life a Rep Friends Membership. From £45
LEAVE A LEGACY
Give the gift of theatre to future audiences by leaving The Rep a gift in your will.
Those who notify us that they have added a gift to their Will, will receive regular Rep updates and invitations to special events.
CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS
We aspire to create long-lasting, mutually valuable associations for our Corporate Members and Sponsors and can help you deliver your business objectives.
FIND OUT MORE
Email development@birmingham-rep.co.uk or visit birmingham-rep.co.uk/support-us
By making a donation, you can help us sustain and expand our vital work.
THE SENSE OF COMMUNITY IS WHAT MAKES IT SO SPECIAL. THE REP IS LIKE A WARM HUG.
by
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.
We offer an up-to-date Hearing Assistance system in all three of 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.
Audio Described performances offer a live description of 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.
We welcome assistance dogs throughout the theatre; they 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.
ACCESS REGISTER
JOIN THE ACCESS REGISTER
We have recently relaunched our access registration scheme in partnership with Nimbus Disability, with the introduction of the Nimbus Access Card.
Nimbus Disability is a social enterprise and an organisation run by and for disabled people and is recognised as a leading authority on accessible ticketing in the UK. By partnering with Nimbus Disability, we’ll be able to ensure that even more people are able to book access tickets at The Rep, and that the right tickets are sold to those who are eligible.
Registering for a Nimbus Access Card is simple and membership is valid for three years. You can sign up for a Birmingham Rep Access card for free or alternatively you can upgrade to a Universal Access card for £15. Universal Access cards are valid to use at The Rep and other venues in the West Midlands and across the UK.
If you already own a Universal Access card with Nimbus, you’ll just need to link your card with The Rep during the registration process.
To sign up visit birmingham-rep.co.uk/accesscard or email access@birmingham-rep.co.uk for further information.
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.
THE SNOWFLAKE
2024/25 CALENDAR
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 Friday from 12 noon to 6pm. On Saturdays, our phone lines open from 12 noon to 6pm (or 4pm if there is no evening performance scheduled).
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.
On non-performance days, the Box Office counter service is closed.
DISCOUNTS AND CONCESSIONS
Discounts are available for most productions for schools, groups and children
Under 16s receive £5 off the advertised ticket price for most shows.*
Aged 16 to 25? For only £5 per year, sign up to access exclusive discounted tickets. See page 3 for further information.
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+*
AGE GUIDELINES
Please check the age guideline for specific productions before booking.
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 5S AND BABES IN ARMS
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 2 years and under when booked directly with the Box Office. A nominal rate of £2 will be charged.
TRANSACTION FEE
All orders are subject to a £3.50 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
*Some exceptions apply.
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
A powerful, moving and important piece.
MIDLANDS WHAT’S ON ON THE PROMISE
Magical from start to finish.
WHATSONSTAGE ON WITHNAIL AND I
I love the values of The Rep and the vision that has driven the venue. The shows are always top notch and there isn’t a bad seat in the house.
AUDIENCE COMMENT
From the moment we stepped into the theatre we were swept away.
BIRMINGHAM MAIL ON SINATRA THE MUSICAL
Just an amazing venue, travelled from Hull for a wonderful experience... a long drive, but absolutely worth every penny. ♥
AUDIENCE COMMENT
A great experience all round in a fantastic venue.
AUDIENCE COMMENT
Birmingham Rep is the place to be...
THE REVIEWS HUB
Another strong premiere in The Rep’s ever-growing portfolio.
BIRMINGHAM MAIL ON MINORITY REPORT
LIVE THEATRE AT
This is Birmingham Rep at its best.
AUDIENCE COMMENT
Biggest shoutout and love to your Box Office team who go above and beyond!
AUDIENCE COMMENT