Colston Hall Pocket Planner - Autumn 2015

0844 887 1500 * www.colstonhall.org

colston hall

sep – dec 2015

02 | www.colstonhall.org

supporters We would like to thank our sponsors and funders for their support principal sponsors

major sponsors

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If you would like to find out more about supporting Colston Hall, please contact Development on 0117 204 7176 or email development@colstonhall.org

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www.colstonhall.org | 03

Turn to the back for our season calendar and see all our events at a glance

attitude is everything We are thrilled to announce that we have achieved bronze status in the Attitude is Everything Charter of Best Practice, the industry standard for accessibility at live music events.

The ethos of the charter is that deaf and disabled people should be as independent as they want when attending live music and the award acknowledges our commitment to this. The recognition came in July, the same month we hosted the pioneering Fast Forward Festival featuring The British Paraorchestra.

We are now working towards silver accreditation, with the ultimate ambition being to achieve gold status with the completion of our transformation campaign.

45 for 45 In September we will be launching our ‘45 for 45’ appeal – our ambitious goal of getting 45,000 people to support our £45 million Thank You For The Music transformation campaign. With £10 million backing from Bristol City Council

and £5 million from HM Treasury committed, we still need to find £30 million to ensure Bristol has a concert hall of national significance which is accessible to all. Look out for details of the appeal from September and be sure to join 45,000 people in supporting our campaign. For more details on Thank You For The Music, please visit www.colstonhall.org/ transformation

tributes to lynch & lucas This season we’re celebrating the fertile relationship between music and the silver screen with three major events. In October Asian Dub Foundation perform an exhilarating live re-score of George Lucas’ cult directorial debut THX 1138 starring Robert Duvall (see p19), while we pay tribute to the enigmatic David Lynch not once but twice. Experimental pop band Xiu Xiu perform the music of Twin Peaks in The Lantern (p13), while no Lynch fan should miss the blockbuster night of the filmmaker’s movie music in the main hall in November as we present In Dreams: David Lynch Revisited (p31).

Discover groundbreaking artists and comedians in The Lantern – look out for the symbol

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become a patron “It is always clear from the audience reaction that this building means a lot to the people of Bristol” Charles Hazlewood conductor We are hugely grateful to our founding patrons for their support of Bristol Music Trust: Gold Patrons H-M. Lord Lieutenant of Bristol Nisbet Charitable Trust

At the heart of the region’s music making since 1867, Colston Hall has built a resounding reputation for excellence and entertainment.

Alongside our artistic programme is our community work and the work of our education hub, Bristol Plays Music. We’re helping 15,000 people each year transform their lives and nurturing new talent.

Bristol Music Trust (registered charity no. 1140898) relies on the support and generosity of individuals to continue its programme of education and entertainment.

The support of our Patrons will play a key role in building our future as a world-class venue.

Silver Patrons S & Y Chapman Beth & Steve Evans Sonia Mills and Peter Rilett Bronze Patrons Helen Barnfield Rob and Geraldine Davis Tim and Kamala Grice Mrs Mary Henderson Pascale and Henry Kenyon Nicole Sherwood James Wetz

If you would like to become a Patron of Colston Hall, please get in touch: Rosa Corbishley, Head of Development, Bristol Music Trust. Email patrons@colstonhall.org or call 0117 204 7176

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sufjan stevens

september

sun 6 sep p07

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heartless bastards rock and pop wed 2 sep the lantern, doors 7pm, £10.75 incl. bf over 14s, u16s accompanied, standing show

sweet billy pilgrim rock and pop fri 4 sep the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £12 incl. bf over 16s, standing show

Restless Ones, the new album by the Ohioborn, Austin-based rock’n’roll four-piece, “mixes the polished proficiency of a hardened road band with the inventiveness of musicians who remain in hot pursuit of new ideas” (NPR). The fifth album, produced by Grammy Award winner John Congleton, finds the band “blazing a path to a place of shifting moods … exploring as-yetunvisited avenues of sound and sensation”.

In 2009 this Home Counties quartet received a surprise Mercury Prize nomination for second album Twice Born Men, convincing frontman Tim Elsenburg to give up his day job and focus on music full time. Motorcade Amnesiacs sees the band “open up their wings and let loose” (Renowned for Sound).

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

doc brown comedy sat 5 sep the lantern, start 8pm, sold out over 14s, seated show

colston hall record and cd fair community sat 5 sep 10am – 4pm, free

the weird way round

“A seamless mix of truly inspired hip-hop and stand-up” (Time Out) from the star of YouTube viral Equality Street, Law and Order and Derek.

Doc Brown delivers “smart punchlines, imaginative devices and knows more than a thing or two about timing” (Metro). Rescheduled from Saturday 2 May.

The biggest record fair in the South West returns with over 70 dealers plying their wares over three floors. Find rare and vintage LPs, 12” and 7” vinyl alongside CDs from most genres. Decks are available to check out tunes before you buy and Colston St Bar & Kitchen will be open for a break from browsing. Feel free to bring tunes to trade or sell – most dealers are happy to strike a bargain!

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sufjan stevens rock and pop sun 6 sep start 7.30pm, sold out

jessica pratt rock and pop mon 7 sep the lantern, start 8pm, £10.75 incl. bf over 16s, standing show

colin cloud comedy fri 11 sep the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £12.90 incl. bf over 12s, seated show

Sufjan Stevens’ new album, Carrie & Lowell, is named after his stepfather and mother, who suffered from schizophrenia and substance abuse.

It sees the artist return to his folk roots as he explores the issues of life, death, love and loss.

“Raw, personal and absolutely stunning … [it] will – without doubt – emerge as one of the year’s defining moments” (Clash). Support from Madisen Ward & The Mama Bear.

with e b u and rhain

White Fence’s Tim Presley reportedly used his life savings to release songwriter Jessica Pratt’s 2012 debut. Thus saved from relative obscurity, Jessica set to work on its follow-up, On Your Own Love Again. The Lantern is the perfect venue in which to hear “Pratt’s delicately handcrafted freakfolk songs” sung “with the calm, naturalistic flow of Nick Drake or Vashti Bunyan” (The Guardian). forensic mind reader

“The hipster Sherlock Holmes” (STV) left Jonathan Ross speechless and Ant and Dec agog.

Now the 2014 Edinburgh Fringe star is coming to mess with your mind – or read it, at least. He’ll know what you had for lunch and what you do for a living, all by seeing the things we just don’t notice.

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west of england festival of male choirs classical sat 12 sep start 8pm, VIP £48.38, £26.88, £19.35 incl. bf

get the blessing rock and pop sun 13 sep the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £14.50 incl. bf part standing

with wynne evans

Singers from Gloucestershire, Somerset and Worcestershire will come together to perform as a 350-strong male voice choir. They’re joined by “highly credible tenor” (Express) – and the voice of Go Compare – Wynne Evans, who has sung with all the major opera houses and orchestras, including Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Welsh National Opera and English National Opera. astronautilus album launch

Bristol’s maverick post-jazz iconoclasts mark the release of their fifth album, Astronautilus, with a special evening of music and visuals. This highly-charged live show will combine pounding rhythms with spacious atmospheres and collective improvisations with strongly-crafted melodies.

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

richard thompson rock and pop wed 16 sep doors 7pm, £30.64, £26.88 incl. bf

john lees’ barclay james harvest rock and pop thu 17 sep the lantern, doors 7pm, £27.95, u18s £16.13 incl. bf over 14s, standing show

electric trio tour

He “has a reputation as one of the best guitarists of all time, but in Sydney he proved his skills as a songwriter shine equally bright”, said The Guardian following the guitar hero’s performance down under. Thompson has been performing since he co-founded Fairport Convention in the 1960s, and has earned an Ivor Novello, a lifetime achievement award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and an OBE. with tin spirits

Formed in Oldham in 1967, Barclay James Harvest “were pioneers of symphonic rock music, often recording and performing with a 60-piece orchestra” (The Guardian). Their “enchanting first four albums” showcased a “pastoral, whimsical, occasionally bombastic style of progressive rock” (The Independent). They perform with founding member John Lees.

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fred macaulay comedy fri 18 sep the lantern, start 8pm, £16.13 incl. bf over 16s, seated show

the september swing jazz sat 19 sep little swing, start 5pm, £10.75 incl. bf (adults free), big swing, start 7.30pm, £21.50, £10.75 incl. bf

frisky & mannish comedy wed 23 sep the lantern, start 8pm, £16.13 incl. bf over 14s, seated show

twenty fifteen

“Solid, filling and very Scottish” (Chortle) material from the BBC Radio Scotland presenter and Edinburgh Fringe veteran (he’s been performing there for 25 years, don’t you know).

In this new show, his first since 2012, Fred takes a sideways look at politics, sport, the environment and celebrity. “Rib-achingly funny, one of the funniest men alive,” says the Sunday Times.

The golden age of swing returns with a triple bill of big bands guaranteed to fill the floor! The Little Swing kicks off with Lucy Moon & The Paper Moon Band, who will have little feet dancing their socks off at this unique event for children of all ages.

Later, dust of your dancing shoes for The Big Swing, led by the inimitable 17-piece Bruce/Ilett Big Band and the Big Buzzard Buzztet. Free swing dance lesson at both events.

just too much

“A laugh-out-loud must-see” (ArtsHub) from the cabaret act who belt out well-known tunes with a twist, sending up stars like Robin Thicke and Lana Del Rey. The “wildly talented” (The Independent) duo have performed everywhere from Shepherd’s Bush Empire to the Sydney Opera House, bringing “wit, style and sweet vocals” (Perth Now) to every show.

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kris drever & ian carr folk thu 24 sep the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £12.90 incl. bf over 14s, seated show

Lau’s Kris Drever teams up with “one of the most innovative, brilliant and sympathetic guitarists Britain has produced in any genre” (fRoots) to play music from both artists’ songbooks.

The acoustic guitarists have collaborated before, including with English folk singer Kate Rusby, but this is the first time they have performed as a duo.

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

martin carthy & dave swarbrick folk sat 26 sep the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £17.50 incl. bf seated show

suzzy roche & lucy wainwright roche folk sun 27 sep the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £17.50 incl. bf seated show

This “legendary duo” (Folk Radio) shook up the British folk scene when they first joined forces in the mid-1960s. They parted ways in 1969 but now the couple are together again to perform a new collection of traditional songs and instrumentals.

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

Mother and daughter duo Suzzy Roche and Lucy Wainwright Roche come together to perform music from their 2013 collaborative album, Fairytale and Myth. No Depression describes the record as “ethereal and hauntingly beautiful … the Roches’ sweet, exquisite harmonies will enchant and transport you”.

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

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stephen johnson & english piano trio classical mon 28 sep the lantern, start 7.30pm, £13* incl. bf

sain zahoor world tue 29 sep the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £17.74 incl. bf seated show, in association with asian arts agency

chamber concert: elgar

Delve into the programme for Dresden Philharmonic’s concert on Friday 2 October with presenter Stephen Johnson. After, English Piano Trio are joined by Zsuzsa Berenyi (violin) and Morgan Goff (viola) to perform Elgar’s Piano Quintet Op.84.

Free for 8 – 25 year olds with CAVATINA, see p45. *£9 incl. bf when bought with a ticket to Dresden Philharmonic, see p13.

As a child Sain Zahoor had recurring dreams about being called away from his family, so he devoted his life to singing at shrines and gained a cult following. “Fans of the Sufiana kalams claim that seeing and hearing Sain Zahoor in full flow is the closest anyone alive will get to being in the presence of the Sufi mystics of yore” (BBC Radio 3).

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

beats & pieces jazz wed 30 sep the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £15.59 incl. bf seated show

“There hasn’t been a live British big band since Loose Tubes with the same degree of energetic spontaneity and enjoyment of performing as this one” (Jazzwise). Led by composer/conductor Ben Cottrell, they “couple gale-force collective energy and confidence to startlingly original material” (The Guardian).

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

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simple things festival

october

fri 23 & sat 24 oct p20 & p21

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squeeze rock and pop thu 1 oct doors 7pm, £51.06, £34.94 incl. bf u14s accompanied

dresden philharmonic classical fri 2 oct start 7.30pm, £36, £30, £24, £18, saver £10, stu. £8.50, u18s £1 incl. bf

with dr john cooper clarke

“British new wave legends” (Rolling Stone) Squeeze, who gave us the enduring hits Cool for Cats, Up the Junction and Black Coffee in Bed, are joined by celebrated punk performance poet Dr John Cooper Clarke. “Glenn Tilbrook still has one of the great white soul voices. When it combines with Chris Difford’s baritone, the effect is sparkling,” says The Guardian.

beethoven and bonaparte

Passions ride high as the curtain goes up on our new season. Cellist Sol Gabetta tackles Elgar’s Cello Concerto in between Wagner’s Die Meistersinger Overture and Beethoven’s Symphony No.3 Eroica.

Sponsored by

xiu xiu rock and pop sat 3 oct the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £12.90 incl. bf over 14s, seated show

plays the music of twin peaks

Jamie Stewart’s beguiling, experimental pop band, Xiu Xiu, pay “due-diligent but beautifully damaged homage” to Angelo Badalamenti and David Lynch’s unmistakable score for Twin Peaks in a performance that’s sure to be as bittersweet as cherry pie. Be warned: BOB will be conducting…

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

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namvula world sun 4 oct the lantern, start 8pm, £12.90, conc. £10.75 incl. bf seated show

bryan ferry rock and pop mon 5 oct doors 7pm, sold out u14s accompanied

project zulu gala concert community tue 6 oct start 7.30pm, £12.90, conc. £8.60, school groups £5.38 incl. bf

belinda carlisle rock and pop wed 7 oct doors 7pm, £34.94 incl. bf over 14s, u16s accompanied

““Bright, bold and vivid” (fRoots) sounds from the Zambian afro-folk performer whose material “[switches] from breathy balladry to stomping jazz-rock” (The Guardian) in one set. Namvula has shared the stage with artists like legendary South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela before embarking on her blossoming solo project.

Part of the Making Tracks series – series discounts available, please contact box office.

After a detour into the 1920s with The Jazz Age and his contribution to Baz Luhrmann’s Oscarwinning The Great Gatsby, the Roxy Music frontman returned to the present day with his 14th solo album, Avonmore. “Few artists of his vintage are at this point still discovering new methods of dance,” said The Quietus following Ferry’s 2013 show at the Royal Albert Hall. Rescheduled from Monday 8 June.

The Sithobelumthetho Primary School choir are returning from the Madadeni Township in South Africa for another evening of awe-inspiring talent.

Performing traditional Zulu songs and dances the choir will be joined by Bristol's Gurt Lush Choir, UWE Big Band and Bristol-based African inspired band Mankala. All money raised from ticket sales will go towards the building of more classrooms for the pupils at Sithobelumthetho Primary School.

A return visit from 1980s pop icon and GoGo’s singer Belinda Carlisle. The “one-time pop supernova” (NME), best known for her hits Leave a Light On, Runaway Horses, Circle in the Sand and, of course, Heaven is a Place on Earth, “hasn’t lost any of her ’80s charm and attitude” (Manchester Evening News). “She still has the ability to hit the highest notes again and again,” says the Nottingham Post.

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best of the edinburgh fringe 2015 comedy wed 7 oct the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £10.75 incl. bf seated show

producer uncovered: beginners education mon 12 & tue 13 oct education suite, 7pm, £180 incl. bf over 18s

editors rock and pop mon 12 oct doors 7.30pm, £21.50 incl. bf over 14s, stalls part standing

iain stirling and julian deane

BAFTA-nominated, “hugely talented rising star” (Time Out) Iain Stirling is, says GQ, “one of the best joke writers on the circuit”. Joining him is Julian Deane, the So You Think You’re Funny semi-finalist whose “trick is to make you think you’re watching standard stand-up fare, then twisting expectations with sharp, original punchlines” (The Independent).

Series discount available, see our website for details.

Learn how to use Logic Pro X and Ableton Live to build music from scratch, experiment with ideas and move towards a finished track in these popular 10-week evening music production courses for adults. Delivered by professional music producers and guest industry professionals, beginners courses are available in Logic Pro X, starting Monday 12 October, and Ableton Live, starting Tuesday 13 October.

“The audience was energized over and over during the entire show,” said Renowned for Sound of Editors’ show at Roundhouse last year. The indie rockers call in at Colston Hall as part of their huge European tour, which sees them performing for fans from Budapest to Barcelona. Hear a pick of songs from the band’s four top 10 albums.

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simone simone felice felice

rock rock and and pop pop mon mon 12 12 oct oct the the lantern, lantern, start start 8pm, 8pm, £16.13 £16.13 incl. incl. bf bf

over over14s, 14s,u16s u16saccompanied, accompanied, standing standingshow show

sally sally barker barker rock rock and and pop pop tue tue 13 13 oct oct the the lantern, lantern, start start 7.30pm, 7.30pm, £16.13 £16.13 incl. incl. bf bf seated seatedshow show

steve earle earle steve & the dukes & the dukes rock and and pop pop rock wed 14 14 oct oct wed start 7.30pm, 7.30pm, £38, £38, start £32 incl. incl. bf bf £32

One members of of Americana Americana One of of the the founding founding members group Simone (the (the ‘e’ ‘e’ group The The Felice Felice Brothers, Brothers, Simone isis silent) to rival rival the the silent) “is “is aa poetic poetic singer-songwriter singer-songwriter to very of the the upstate upstate New New very best, best,”” says says the the Telegraph Telegraph of York in 2009 2009 to to record record York native. native. He He left left his his brothers brothers in as Duke and and the the King King as part part of of lauded lauded ensemble ensemble The The Duke and, most recent recent album, album, and, later, later, as as aa solo solo artist. artist. His His most Strangers, described as as “a “a Strangers, was was critically critically acclaimed, acclaimed, described beautiful (Louder Than Than War).

War). beautiful album album of of raw raw honesty” honesty” (Louder You’ll from her her flawless flawless You’ll know know Sally Sally Barker Barker from performances On By, By, To To Love Love performances of of Walk Walk On Somebody Somebody and Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood on on BBC BBC One’s The Voice (reducing judge Sir Tom Jones Jones to tears in the process). After supporting Bob Dylan, Dylan, Robert Plant and Sir Tom in concert, Sally takes takes centre stage in this live show, performing tracks tracks from her 30-year career. The Barry Walsh Band Band supports.

For his his 16th studio album, Terraplane, Steve Earle For introduces “his old friend, the blues” (Uncut). The introduces legendary songwriter wrote much of the album while legendary while touring Europe alone with just a guitar, mandolin touring and backpack backpack for company. “This is a blues album and that opts opts to boogie rather than weep, celebrate not that commiserate” (Consequence of Sound). commiserate”

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producer uncovered: intermediate education wed 14 oct education suite, 7pm, £180 incl. bf

Learn the skills you need to fine-tune your tracks and get into new creative areas, including sound synthesis, digital signal processing and sound design.

This popular 10-week evening music production course for adults is delivered by professional music producers and guest industry professionals.

Intermediate course available in Logic Pro X, starting Wednesday 14 October.

over 18s

vetiver rock and pop wed 14 oct the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £10.75 incl. bf over 14s, standing show

“Vetiver could very well be the blurry soundtrack to a delirious fever dream,” said Pitchfork of the band’s self-titled 2004 debut. Just over a decade and a handful of albums later, Andy Cabic releases Complete Strangers – “a smooth, steady unfurling of understated jangle, celestial hum and whispery self-contemplation” (The 405).

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

bristol choral society classical sat 17 oct start 7.30pm, £26.88, £21.50, £16.13, £10.75, u25s £5.38 incl. bf, OAPs 10% discount

jon gomm rock and pop sun 18 oct the lantern, doors 7.30pm, £14.51 incl. bf over 14s, u16s accompanied, seated show

with british sinfonietta: verdi – requiem

Like Berlioz’s Grande Messe des Morts or the Britten War Requiem, Verdi’s tribute to Alessandro Manzoni is a requiem writ large and from the heart. Headed by a distinguished line-up of soloists conducted by Adrian Partington, Bristol Choral Society usher in a new season with a work whose graphic depiction of the Day of Wrath will set Colston Hall trembling. Viva Verdi!

Jon Gomm is “one of the world’s most gifted and inspirational guitar players” (Acoustic Magazine) whose style takes in classical, blues, jazz and rock. Using a single acoustic guitar to create drum sounds, basslines and melodies simultaneously, his songs draw on a range of influences. After releasing his third album in November 2013, Jon visits as part of a European tour. Rescheduled from Monday 16 March.

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yo la tengo rock and pop sun 18 oct start 8pm, £19.50 incl. bf

the souljazz orchestra world mon 19 oct the lantern, doors 7.30pm, adv. £12.90 incl. bf standing show

bassekou kouyaté & ngoni ba world tue 20 oct the lantern, start 8.30pm, adv. £16.50 incl. bf standing show

“Are they Sonic Youth noise rockers, as per Sugarcube? Are they sensitive folkies, as on Tears are in Your Eyes? Falsetto soul enthusiasts on Mr Tough? It’s really not easy to say, ‘ah, that’s a Yo La Tengo sound!’” (The Guardian). This year’s Stuff Like That There is the band’s 14th album in 30 years and sees them reunite with former member Dave Schramm for this special acoustic tour.

Go on “a thrilling global voyage” (Metro) with horn-heavy Canadian collective The SoulJazz Orchestra. For latest album Resistance, composer Pierre Chrétien “brought in some of the French Caribbean and Francophone West African influences” to the band’s heavy mix of Afro, soul and jazz styles.

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

“The best rock’n’roll band in the world” (The Independent) turn up the volume for latest offering Ba Power. Led by Malian lute master Bassekou Kouyaté, Ngoni Ba create “an extraordinary array of sounds from a spindly metallic plinking to a grinding bluesy roar” (The Daily Telegraph).

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

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asian dub foundation’s thx 1138

PIC: © 1971 WARNER BROS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

rock and pop wed 21 oct start 8pm, £19.50 incl. bf

Asian Dub Foundation perform an exhilarating and fast-moving live score to complement a screening of George Lucas’ first feature-length film, 1971’s THX 1138. The cult movie, starring Robert Duvall and Donald Pleasence, is set in a 25th-century authoritarian world where chemical brainwashing, android police and CCTV exert totalitarian control over society. ADF are renowned for their live shows and have performed celebrated live soundtracks to a number of films including La Haine and The Battle of Algiers. The night is rounded off by a DJ set from ADF in the stalls bar. This event is a 12a certificate.

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nish kumar comedy wed 21 oct the lantern, start 8pm, £10.75 incl. bf over 15s, seated show

hothouse flowers rock and pop thu 22 oct start 7.30pm, £31.71, £30.10 incl. bf

godspeed you! black emperor rock and pop fri 23 oct start 8pm, £24.73 incl. bf stalls part standing

long word… long word… blah blah blah… i’m so clever

Expressive, articulate and mild-mannered comedian Nish Kumar “is the Asian answer to John Oliver.

Fiercely intelligent, he is the voice of liberal common sense, calling to account stupid thinking wherever he may encounter it” (Chortle). An Edinburgh Festival regular since 2009, Kumar is one half of the stand-up duo The Gentlemen of Leisure.

Once described as “the hottest unsigned band in Europe” by Rolling Stone, the former Dublin buskers are probably still best known for their debut album, 1988’s People, which reached number 2 in the UK album charts and spawned the hit single Don’t Go. “Ireland’s finest folk-rock export” (BBC Music) visit the Hall following the return of original bassist Peter O’Toole. Support from Rainy Boy Sleep.

simple things opening concert

The legendary Montreal post-rock band will headline this year’s Simple Things opening party. The band has become revered for their orchestral strain of rock music, with 2000’s Lift Your Skinny Fists like Antennas to Heaven regarded as one of the genre’s definitive albums. Armed with this year’s Asunder, Sweet and Other Distress, the nine-piece will fill the farthest reaches of Colston Hall on Friday night.

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simple things festival rock and pop sat 24 oct from 12pm, from £31.71 incl. bf

an evening with donovan folk sun 25 oct start 7.30pm, £32.25, £26.88 incl. bf

steve backshall's wild world families mon 26 oct start 7pm, £20, conc. £16 incl. bf over 8s

Back for its third year with another incredible lineup of acts, Simple Things returns to venues across the city to showcase the best in contemporary music – and once again the whole of Colston Hall will be taken over on Saturday. Acts announced so far include experimental rock trio Battles (pictured), Penguin Café, Wire, Factory Floor, Dean Blunt, DJ Funk and more. For more details please visit our website.

50th anniversary tour

Folk troubadour, poet and ’60s icon Donovan celebrates his 50th anniversary in music with a double CD anthology and tour. He scored a string of top 10 hits in the 1960s, including Catch the Wind to Colours, Universal Soldier, Sunshine Superman, Hurdy Gurdy Man and more. “Neither the quality of the music nor his dippy sweetness have dimmed,” says The Guardian.

Pack your Kendal mint cake and strap on your walking boots as Deadly 60 presenter and adventurer Steve Backshall takes us on a journey through the real-life expeditions that have inspired his novels, The Falcon Chronicles. From the tundra to the top of the world’s highest peaks, Steve will share pictures and films from his most exhilarating adventures. Parents are advised that the content might be challenging for very young children.

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ella henderson rock and pop tue 27 oct doors 7pm, sold out u14s accompanied, stalls part standing

dan clark comedy tue 27 oct the lantern, start 8pm, £10.75 incl. bf over 16s, seated show

daptone's saun and starr rock and pop wed 28 oct the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £12.90 incl. bf

It looks set to be a spine-tingling show as platinumselling artist and former X Factor contestant Ella Henderson shows off those “unmistakable emotive vocals” (Huffington Post) performing tracks from her “superb debut” (Digital Spy), Chapter One. “Its powerhouse beginning, edgy verses and catchy chorus … definitely secured Ella’s place in the limelight,” says 4Music of the songstress’s charttopping single Ghost. me, my selfie and i

The Mighty Boosh’s Johnny Two Hats goes it alone with this critically-lauded show about love, death and loneliness. But don’t be alarmed: there’ll be plenty of Clark’s trademark upbeat, occasionally rude and heart-warming comedy to keep spirits high. The Guardian calls the show “an impressive spectacle” and Fringe Review says “Clark completely seduced everyone in the room”.

New York label Daptone “has excelled with the philosophy of late bloomers and overlooked artists” (Paste), giving artists like Charles Bradley and Sharon Jones their chance to shine. The tradition continues with the release of Look Closer, the debut album from former backing singers Saundra Williams and Starr Duncan Lowe.

over 16s, standing show New music in The Lantern sponsored by

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steve hackett rock and pop wed 28 oct start 7.30pm, £31.71, £29.56 incl. bf

bournemouth symphony orchestra classical thu 29 oct start 7.30pm, £36, £30, £24, £18, saver £10, stu. £8.50, u18s £1 incl. bf

harry enfield & paul whitehouse comedy fri 30 oct start 7.30pm, sold out over 12s

james acaster comedy fri 30 & sat 31 oct the lantern, start 8pm, £15.05 incl. bf over 15s, seated show

acolyte to wolflight

A return visit from the legendary Genesis lead guitarist. The set will span his history, from earliest album Voyage of the Acolyte, celebrating its 40th anniversary, to his new rock album Wolflight, with the addition of Genesis songs. “It was astonishingly good,” says Goldmine magazine of Hackett’s show in New York City’s Town Hall.

1905

From political drama to real-life revolution, James Gaffigan and the BSO man the barricades for an evening rich in zeal and idealism. Beethoven’s Egmont Overture is followed by Horowitz Competition winner Alexander Gavrylyuk performing Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No.1, and finally Shostakovich’s blockbuster Symphony No.11 The Year 1905.

legends!

See obnoxious big spender Loadsamoney and the “suits you, sir” tailors live on stage for the first time as comedy legends Harry Enfield and Paul Whitehouse embark on a brand new tour. The pair have been responsible for some of the most enduring characters in British comedy, including Smashie and Nicey and Angry Frank, and are currently working on a new TV special celebrating 25 years in the industry. represent

“One of comedy’s most original voices” (Evening Standard) runs his mouth off about a bunch of stuff nobody even cares about (his words, not ours). See “stand-up of the highest, most playful order” (The Guardian) from the multiple Fosters Edinburgh Award Best Show nominee and Mock the Week regular.

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richard hawley

november

mon 9 nov p27

www.colstonhall.org | 25

destroyer rock and pop mon 2 nov the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £14.51 incl. bf over 14s, standing show

He’s “one of indie-rock’s most unique and idiosyncratic voices, forging an identity so distinct, he’s even spawned doppelgängers” (Pitchfork). Dan Bejar began his Destroyer project in the mid-’90s, releasing a steady stream of work before having something of a breakthrough in 2011 when Kaputt made the US charts.

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

kevin bridges comedy tue 3 & wed 4 nov start 8pm, £26.88 incl. bf over 14s

hot 8 brass band rock and pop tue 3 nov the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £18.50 incl. bf over 16s, standing show

a whole different story…

“Britain’s best stand-up” (The Sun) returns to the road with his brand new show. Following his record-breaking 2012 tour, Kevin Bridges – The Story Continues, which sold a staggering 45,000 tickets on the first day, Bridges brings his “truthful, natural and hilarious style” to Colston Hall. “It’s his eye for details that has elevated him to a must-see act,” says the Daily Mirror.

“No outfit has done more than the Hot 8 to recast the long tradition of New Orleans marching music for modern times,” says The Guardian of the Grammy-nominated unit. Expect “undiluted nourishment for the soul” (The Big Issue) with “swaggering jazz, raucous funk, second line strut and hip-hop attitude” (MOJO).

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

best of the edinburgh fringe 2015 comedy wed 4 nov the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £10.75 incl. bf seated show

phil wang and steve hall

He’s performed as part of the criticallyacclaimed sketch group We Are Klang and now Steve Hall is ready to show us his “deadpan brilliance” (Time Out) in his latest solo show. Also performing is award-winning Phil Wang, whose “smart conversational comedy [is] buoyed up by a nice dose of rudeness” (The i). Series discount available, see our website for details.

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tommy tiernan comedy thu 5 nov the lantern, start 8pm, £19.35 incl. bf over 16s, seated show

stewart francis comedy fri 6 nov start 8pm, £22.58 incl. bf over 16s

festival of the spoken nerd comedy fri 6 & sat 7 nov the lantern, start 7.30pm, £16.13, conc. £13.98 incl. bf over 16s, seated show

the staves rock and pop sat 7 nov doors 7pm, £19.89 incl. bf u14s accompanied, stalls part standing

out of the whirlwind

Tiernan is “a terrific comic” whose “timing and affection for [Ireland] wields a hypnotic force” (The Guardian). Now entering his 20th year as a stand-up, the County Donegal native has won a host of comedy awards, and once held the Guinness World Record for longest stand-up comedy show.

“He is a free spirit who embraces the madness and wants us to do the same,” says Chortle. pun gent tour

“Perfectly crafted gags” (The Sunday Times) from the comedian who went from circuit favourite to household name thanks to turns on Mock the Week, Michael McIntyre’s Roadshow and Live at The Apollo. You’ll get a “barrage of slick, densely packed gags” (The York Press) from the “brilliant comic brain” (The Guardian) who “practises origami with language” (Chortle).

just for graphs

Geeks, nerds and clever clogs unite for this “great, funny, clever” (Scotsman) show for the sci-curious. Stand-up mathematician Matt Parker, experiments expert Steve Mould and geeky songstress Helen Arney mix mind-expanding science with statistically significant comedy to feed your brain and tickle your funny bones.

“The voices are still silken, the sibling harmonies still graceful, but everything else about the Staves has changed since their 2012 debut, Dead & Born & Grown” (The Guardian). For their latest album, If I Was, the British sisters worked with Justin Vernon (aka Bon Iver) at his Wisconsin studio, creating a collection of “beautifully composed ballads” (The 405). Support from Gabriel Rios.

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joe satriani rock and pop sun 8 nov 7.30pm, VIP £182.75, £107.50, £40.85, £37.09 incl. bf

the last train track folk sun 8 nov the lantern, doors 7.30pm, adv. £12.90 incl. bf

the shockwave tour

“Guitar maestro” (Ultimate Classic Rock) Joe Satriani stormed onto the music scene in 1987 with his multi-platinum album Surfing with the Alien, and has been “dominating the world with his unique and expansive instrumental rock sound” (Ultimate Guitar) ever since. His 2013 offering, Unstoppable Momentum, “is one of his most wildly imaginative and stylistically diverse” (Guitar World). featuring sam lee

Embark on a never-ending story as the last train rolls in and strange tales turn to ghostly dreams. The Last Train Track will provide the perfect bedtime story to a soundtrack of electronica, trains and folk-like fables. Tonight's tale features a live performance by songwriter and collector Sam Lee. New music in The Lantern sponsored by

richard hawley rock and pop mon 9 nov doors 7pm, £26.88 incl. bf stalls part standing

julia holter rock and pop tue 10 nov the lantern, doors 7.30pm, adv. £13.98 incl. bf over 16s, standing show

“Placed midway between a 50-a-day Roy Orbison and the crime noir menace of Afghan Whigs, Hawley writes ’50s-crooner torch songs with teeth” (The Guardian). The Sheffield singer-songwriter follows 2012’s acclaimed Standing at the Sky’s Edge with Hollow Meadows – a “return to the classic, sophisticated songwriting and subtle arrangements that made him so widely loved and revered in the first place” (Music News).

LA avant-garde performer Julia Holter heads to The Lantern following the release of her new album, Have You in My Wilderness, the follow-up to 2013’s acclaimed Loud City Song. “Her between-song banter is all Valley Girl sweetness and grateful platitudes … but her performances are variously pristine and deranged,” says The Guardian.

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

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TEDxBristol community wed 11 nov 10am, £16.13 incl. bf

bournemouth symphony orchestra classical thu 12 nov start 7.30pm, £36, £30, £24, £18, saver £10, stu. £8.50, u18s £1 incl. bf

kamasi washington jazz fri 13 nov the lantern, doors 7.30pm, adv. £12.50 incl. bf standing show

great expectations

TEDxBristol 2015 is all about our Great Expectations for the future. Speakers include Dr Dawn Harper, who’s on a mission to banish ‘modern lifestyle’ disease; David Sloly, marketing stalwart to the likes of Google; Professor Kate Pullinger, Bath-based digital fiction writer; and Poppy the Robot, an android delivering a talk on the progress of AI. Compered by DIY SOS’s builder Mark Millar. london calling

The BSO’s Principal Conductor Kirill Karabits makes his season debut alongside the eminent cellist Steven Isserlis with an opening salvo of Prokofiev’s Sinfonietta and Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No.1, before concluding with a vivacious symphony that took Georgian London by storm: Haydn’s Symphony No.104 London.

It’s one of Rolling Stone’s 45 Best Albums of 2015 So Far and one of the LA Times’ Essential Albums of 2015. Saxophonist-composer Kamasi Washington’s The Epic is “an extravagant love letter to (among other things): soul, jazz, John Coltrane (various periods) and 1970s fusion leaders like Miles Davis and Weather Report” (Pitchfork).

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

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andreya triana rock and pop sat 14 nov the lantern, doors 7.30pm, £13.44 incl. bf over 14s, u16s accompanied, standing show

john wilson & orchestra classical sun 15 nov start 7pm, £48.38, £43, £37.63, £28.49 incl. bf

béla fleck & abigail washburn folk sun 15 nov 8pm, tickets from st george's bristol: £26.50 plus fees*

somali stars world sun 15 nov the lantern, start 8pm, £15 incl. bf standing show

She’s worked with Mr Scruff and Flying Lotus, supported Erykah Badu and leant her “languid” (BBC) vocals to Bonobo’s Black Sands (Drowned in Sound called her “the darling of the album”). After “bubbling under the surface of the UK’s down-tempo scene” (PopMatters), Triana finally stepped into the limelight in 2010 with her debut, Lost Where I Belong and, five years later, presents its follow-up, Giants. gershwin in hollywood

“Taut rhythms and sleek precision” (London Evening Standard) from the John Wilson Orchestra and special guests as they celebrate the work of composer George Gershwin. “There are few conductors who receive rapturous applause before they have even lifted their baton for the first beat … John Wilson is one of them,” says the New Statesman.

at st george's bristol

Sure, in the abstract, a banjo duo might seem like a musical concept beset by limitations. But when the banjo players are Abigail Washburn and Béla Fleck it’s a different matter entirely. There’s no denying that theirs is a one-of-a-kind pairing, with one-ofa-kind possibilities. Promoted by St George’s Bristol in collaboration with Colston Hall. *For tickets and fee info, visit www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk

featuring maxamed bk, sahra ilays & da’ud ali mashaf

Debut UK performance from the popular Somali vocalist, songwriter and composer, Maxamed BK, as he performs the modern take on traditional music that has made him such a star in his homeland.

Joining him is vocalist and folklore dancer Sahra Ilays and lute player Da’ud Ali Mashaf.

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brit floyd rock and pop mon 16 nov start 8pm, £42.46, £31.71 incl. bf

raf in concert 2015 light entertainment tue 17 nov start 7.30pm, £26.88, £23.65, £20.43, £15.05 incl. bf 10% discount for groups of 10 or more

oysters 3 folk tue 17 nov the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £16.50 incl. bf seated show

space & time world tour 2015

They’re calling it the “most ambitious show to date” as fans journey through five decades of Pink Floyd.

Featuring a brand new light show and even bigger stage production, Brit Floyd give us note-perfect renditions of songs from Pink Floyd’s biggest selling albums, including Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here and The Wall. “The world’s greatest Pink Floyd show? It might just be” (The Big Issue).

75th anniversary of the battle of britain

The bands of the Royal Air Force present a rousing evening of musical entertainment to mark the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. This evocative programme will show how the spirit and capability of those who took part endures in the professionalism of the people who make up the RAF today.

Ian Telfer, John Jones and Alan Prosser – founder-members of folk-rockers Oysterband – give an insight into the band’s dramatic (and sometimes comic) history and perform songs from their career. “The really interesting part is that the songs stand up so well in a stripped-down format,” they explain.

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

söndörgö world wed 18 nov the lantern, start 8pm, £12.90, conc. £10.75 incl. bf seated show

This band of brothers comes together in celebration of their Hungarian roots, bringing a vigorous virtuosity to their fresh interpretations of the traditional folk music of their homeland. They are, says Songlines, “one of Europe’s most versatile and exciting bands” while The Guardian calls them simply “world class”.

Part of the Making Tracks series – series discounts available, please contact box office.

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in dreams: david lynch revisited rock and pop thu 19 nov start 7.30pm, £27.50 incl. bf A “bevy of international talents … line up to pay homage to the world’s coolest, wildest, most enigmatic filmmaker” (Time Out), David Lynch.

This mesmerising musical tribute will feature breathtaking reimaginings of tracks from Mulholland Drive, Twin Peaks, Lost Highway and more.

In Dreams immerses the audience into the mood and atmosphere of Lynch’s universe, with landmark instrumental tracks and exciting new versions of songs from his films, performed by a superb band assembled and led by musical director David Coulter, featuring members of Tindersticks, Savages, ex-Bad Seed Mick Harvey and other guests.

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will young rock and pop fri 20 nov start 7.30pm, sold out

beardyman comedy sat 21 nov the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £19.35 incl. bf over 18s, seated show

frank turner

Reality TV has worked wonders for the original Pop Idol winner, whose entire roster of albums has been certified platinum or higher. His latest, 85% Proof, follows a four-year break and move to new label Island Records – a decision that has allowed Young to reinvent his sound with lead single Love Revolution showcasing “a more retro soul direction” (Digital Spy).

one album per hour

Following two sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe, the “breathtakingly talented” (Time Out) comedian presents the debut UK tour of his critically acclaimed show. In just 60 minutes Beardyman will produce a brand new album, with all songs based entirely on your suggestions. “This electric hour will redefine the limits of human creativity as you know it” (BroadwayBaby).

and the sleeping souls

The Guardian calls a Frank Turner gig “a huge,

rock and pop communal experience”, where loyals fans blast out sat 21 & sun 22 nov his back catalogue of folk-punk anthems while doors 7pm, adv. £26.88 dancing and generally having a great time. The incl. bf stalls part standing

singer-songwriter performs following his ninth straight appearance at Reading and Leeds Festival.

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colston hall record and cd fair community sat 21 nov 10am – 4pm, free

chris ramsey comedy sun 22 & mon 23 nov the lantern, start 8pm, £18.81 incl. bf over 16s, seated show

sweet liberties folk wed 25 nov the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £16.50 incl. bf seated show

The biggest record fair in the South West returns with over 70 dealers plying their wares over three floors. Find rare and vintage LPs, 12” and 7” vinyl alongside CDs from most genres. Decks are available to check out tunes before you buy and Colston St Bar & Kitchen will be open for a break from browsing. Feel free to bring tunes to trade or sell – most dealers are happy to strike a bargain!

all growed up

Now fully recovered from the incident on Soccer AM (in which Ramsey said a naughty word and was promptly asked to leave), the star of BBC2’s Hebburn returns to The Lantern with his new show.

“He establishes a strong rapport with the crowd, is quick with his wits and has a self-deprecatory, boynext-door charm,” says The Guardian. “Rising star of UK comedy” (The List). Carl Hutchinson supports.

feat. martyn joseph, nancy kerr, sam carter & maz o’connor

Folk music’s most legendary and exciting performers come together to take a musical journey exploring the pursuit of democracy and liberty.

The quartet will perform new music together with musicians Patsy Reid and Nick Cooke.

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

25 years of reeves & mortimer comedy wed 25 & thu 26 nov start 7.30pm, £37.63, £31.71 incl. bf

the poignant moments

“The iconic and influential comedy duo” (The Mirror), who gave us hits like Shooting Stars and House of Fools, celebrate a quarter of a century of making us laugh. While some of the pair’s bestloved characters like Mulligan and O’Hare, Kinky John and Dr Shakamoto will be putting in an appearance, Mortimer promises “not to mention football, JLS or apricots during the performance”.

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braids rock and pop thu 26 nov the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £10.75 incl. bf over 16s, standing show

Three-piece experimental popsters Braids’ third album, Deep in the Iris, is “easily the most accessible offering from [them] to date” (Paste). Hear “fleet, skittering jazz percussion, crackling beats and stuttering cuts in vocals, while delicate, classical piano runs beneath electronic instrumentals” (Pitchfork).

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

jimmy carr comedy fri 27 nov start 8pm, £26.88 incl. bf over 16s

laurel halo rock and pop fri 27 nov the lantern, doors 9pm, adv. £13.98 incl. bf standing show

funny business

The 8 Out of 10 Cats host brings his Funny Business back to the Hall – and it’s still brimming with the transgressive, outré and bad taste material for which he’s renowned. “His stage presence is as unmistakable as his laugh, his commandment of the audience is enviable” (The Edge). Needless to say, this is not for the easily offended.

The music of Michigan-born, Berlin-based, Hyperdub-signed artist Laurel Halo “defies easy placement”, says Pitchfork. “It flickers between ’90s-era IDM fussiness, warped hypnagogic sentimentality and actual club music.” This date follows the release of a new double EP on Honest Jon’s Records.

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

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this is the kit folk sat 28 nov the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £10.75 incl. bf standing show

Lauren Laverne, Radcliffe & Maconie and Guy Garvey have all shown support for Kate Stables’ project, the latter calling it “wonderful, wonderful stuff ”. On Bashed Out, the band’s latest album, folk, psychedelia, alt. rock and electronica sounds mix in what they call a “quintessentially British but one-of-a-kind eccentric manner”.

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

made in bristol gift fair community sat 28 nov 10am – 4pm, free

royal marines band charity concert light entertainment sun 29 nov start 3pm, £19.35, £17.20, £15.05 incl. bf, conc. available

harry enfield & paul whitehouse comedy mon 30 nov start 7.30pm, £40.31, £34.94 incl. bf over 12s

The Made In Bristol Gift Fair returns to Colston Hall for a festive shopping showcase of creative talent.

Located over four floors of our foyer and featuring more than 100 designers, the fair is a vast emporium of unique handmade gifts. Find jewellery, toys, ceramics, art and home accessories all created by the best of the region’s designer-makers.

in aid of seafarers uk

A lively show from the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines with military marches, big band hits and seasonal numbers guaranteed to make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. This show is a fundraising event in aid of Seafarers UK, the country’s leading maritime charity that supports the maritime sector.

legends!

Another chance to see obnoxious big spender Loadsamoney and the “suits you, sir” tailors live on stage as comedy legends Harry Enfield and Paul Whitehouse present the second night of their brand new tour. Spend the evening with some of the most enduring characters in British comedy.

36 887 1500 36 || 0844 www.colstonhall.org

the nutcracker & the snowman

december

sun 20 dec p43

Š SNOWMAN ENTERPRISES LTD. 1982, 2014

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thunderbirds are go: 50 years on rock and pop tue 1 dec start 7.30pm, £20 incl. bf

best of the edinburgh fringe 2015 comedy tue 1 dec the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £10.75 incl. bf seated show

the waterboys rock and pop thu 3 dec start 7.30pm, £34.94 incl. bf stalls part standing

charles hazlewood & his all star collective

Renowned conductor Charles Hazlewood and his All Star Collective celebrate the wondrous music of Thunderbirds and composer Barry Gray in the show’s 50th anniversary year. Bringing it to life is a special ensemble which features Adrian Utley of Portishead and Will Gregory of Goldfrapp, members of The British Paraorchestra and other noted players.

alex smith & jarlath regan

“Side-splitting stuff ” (The Metro) from the creator and host of the award-winning An Irishman Abroad podcast, Jarlath Regan. Alex Smith has appeared on BBC Radio 2’s New Comedy Awards and BBC3’s Live at The Electric. He made his Edinburgh Fringe debut in 2014 after reaching the final of the Amused Moose Laugh Off competition.

Series discount available, see our website for details.

Trying to describe The Waterboys’ sound would, it seems, be a futile exercise. As the band themselves say: “The Waterboys belong to no movement, genre, school or fashion. We play Waterboys music.” Thirty years after the release of their cherished album, 1985’s This Is the Sea, the masters of ‘Big Music’ are back with a new album, Modern Blues, and show us why Richard Curtis believes them to be “the next best group after The Beatles”.

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hal cruttenden comedy thu 3 dec the lantern, start 8pm, £17.20 incl. bf over 16s, seated show

ronnie spector rock and pop fri 4 dec start 7.30pm, £35, £29.50 incl. bf

made in bristol gift fair community sat 5, sat 12 & sun 13 dec 10am – 4pm, free

straight out of cruttenden

“One of the funniest comics on the circuit” (Time Out) is back to have a good rant about the real evils of the modern world: the 5:2 diet and oversharing on social media. Hal has hosted Live at The Apollo and appeared on The Royal Variety Performance, Have I Got News for You, Celebrity Mastermind and John Bishop’s Only Joking. He is, says The Scotsman, “an absolute joy to watch”.

Ronnie Spector, the “Sixties girl-group icon” who “once boasted the Rolling Stones as her opening act” (The Telegraph), returns to the UK to pay tribute to the girl group she co-founded – The Ronettes. Ronnie and her band will perform all the Ronettes hits, including Be My Baby, Baby I Love You and Walking in the Rain.

The Made In Bristol Gift Fair returns to Colston Hall for a festive shopping showcase of creative talent.

Located over four floors of our foyer and featuring more than 100 designers, the fair is a vast emporium of unique handmade gifts. Find jewellery, toys, ceramics, art and home accessories all created by the best of the region’s designer-makers.

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uwe centre for performing arts classical sun 6 dec start 4.30pm, £16.13, conc. £13.98, £10.75, conc. £8.60, child £1.08 incl. bf

bristol post xmas carol concert community mon 7 dec start 7.30pm, £7.53 incl. bf

bristol cathedral choir school xmas concert

green and pleasant lands

The UWE Orchestra, UWE Singers and a myriad of smaller ensembles celebrate Bristol as European Green Capital 2015 by showcasing the talents of its students, staff and friends. Featuring music by English composers including Delius, Vaughan Williams and Arnold, and also the world premiere of three newly-commissioned works by UWEbased composers Davies, Hull and Lane.

Bristol Post and BBC Radio Bristol join forces to present an evening of carols and popular Christmas songs, led by local choirs Gurt Lush, H Club and World Roots, and accompanied by Bold Brass. The evening, which will also feature seasonal readings and appearances by BBC Radio Bristol presenters, is in aid of the Lord Mayor of Bristol’s Children’s Appeal, which provides Christmas food and gifts for disadvantaged youngsters.

From the pure beauty of the choristers’ singing to the exuberance of the gospel choir, come and share in a wonderful evening of festive music given by the South West’s only Music Specialist Academy.

community wed 9 dec start 7.30pm, £8.60, u18s £4.30 incl. bf

bournemouth symphony orchestra classical thu 10 dec start 7.30pm, £36, £30, £24, £18, saver £10, stu. £8.50, u18s £1 incl. bf

stormy sibelius

Kirill Karabits rounds off 2015 with promises of magic and mythology in this Scandinavian musical smorgasbord. It’s a Sibelius triple bill with performances of the Suite from The Tempest, Tapiola and the magnificent Symphony No.7, while in between is Grieg’s famous Piano Concerto handled by soloist Juho Pohjonen.

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an evening with noel fielding comedy fri 11 dec start 8pm, £26.88 incl. bf

The writer and star of The Mighty Boosh and Luxury Comedy serves up a magical mix of standup, live animation and music. Some of Fielding’s most-loved Boosh characters will also be putting in an appearance. Joining him on the night will be Mike Fielding (Naboo) and Tom Meeton (Lance Dior). “Come along and bring a horse who thinks he’s in a Pussy Riot,” the comedian tweets.

over 12s

gareth malone light entertainment sat 12 dec doors 7pm, £48.38, £40.31, £26.88 incl. bf

Return visit from the monumentally popular choral animateur, singer and presenter of BBC’s The Choir.

“If there’s a reason for Malone’s rise … it’s his gift of lighting people up, as it were, from the inside, by making them want to sing” (The Guardian).

u14s accompanied Sponsored by

colston christmas ceilidh light entertainment sat 12 dec the lantern, start 7.30pm, adv. £12.90 incl. bf standing show

with molecatchers and jethro anderson

Bristol favourites The Molecatchers host this year's ceilidh. This lively four-piece band, with fiddle, accordion, guitars, stomp box and mandolin, present a heady mix of English and European dance music with swirling harmonies and a driving beat.

Bristol caller Jethro Anderson joins the party.

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jools holland & his rhythm and blues orchestra

with kt tunstall

Jools and co. make a welcome return to Colston Hall following the release of 2014’s Sirens of Song, joined by KT Tunstall.

rock and pop sun 13 dec start 7.30pm, sold out Sponsored by

shine folk sun 13 dec the lantern, start 8pm, adv. £14.50 incl. bf seated show

fire and frost christmas tour

Three voices plus two Camac electro-harps equals “one of the most interesting albums in a long while”, says fRoots of Mary Macmaster, Corinna Hewat and Alyth McCormack’s Fire and Frost. The set will feature classic seasonal offerings alongside their own spectral songwriting.

New music in The Lantern sponsored by

caro emerald rock and pop mon 14 dec doors 7pm, sold out u14s accompanied

texas rock and pop tue 15 dec doors 7pm, £52.14, £39.78, £30.64 incl. bf over 14s

“Post-Winehouse retro-jazz singer Caro Emerald already has a number one album under her belt, and even wider fame looks likely,” said The Guardian back in 2013 following the release of the Dutch chanteuse’s record The Shocking Miss Emerald. An arena tour followed, during which Emerald earned glowing reviews, with Manchester Evening News praising her “rich, thick and absolutely beautiful voice”.

To celebrate a quarter of a century as the “toppermost of the poppermost” (Scotsman), Scottish alt-rockers Texas revisited and re-recorded their back catalogue for Texas 25, collaborating with New York super-producers Truth & Soul (who’ve worked with Adele and Amy Winehouse) to reboot tracks like Inner Smile, I Don’t Want a Lover and Summer Son. Hear reworkings of old favourites alongside brand new tracks.

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bootleg beatles rock and pop thu 17 dec start 7.30pm, £30.64 incl. bf

sheelanagig’s christmas shindig rock and pop fri 18 dec start 7.30pm, early bird £14.50, £18.50 incl. bf

“They look like them, dress like them, move like them and sound like them. The Bootleg Beatles are a remarkable phenomenon,” says the Bristol Post.

“They are,” adds The Nottingham Post, “so mindbogglingly like the real thing, they remind us of what a tight little rock and roll band The Beatles really were.” See “absolutely authentic” (Daily Mail) renditions of the Fab Four’s greatest hits at this “offthe-scale fabulous” (Chris Evans) show.

Celebrating 10 years of Sheelanagig and all things Balkan, gypsy and jazzy. The band have travelled far and wide and are now ready to bring the music home to celebrate a decade’s worth of mayhem and madness, filling Colston Hall with circus, magic, music, pop-up mini-gigs and more. Join us. Be merry. Hold hands. Jump about. It’s going to be big.

It’s Sheelanagig.

u14s accompanied, stalls part standing

handel’s messiah & mini messiah classical sat 19 dec start 7.30pm, £26.88, £21.50, £16.13, £10.75, u25s £5.38 incl.bf, OAPs 10% discount

bristol choral society & bristol ensemble

The cornerstone of Christmas celebrations at Colston Hall, Handel’s famous masterpiece – filled with beautiful solo arias and magnificent choruses (including the Hallelujah chorus) – is sung from memory with fine soloists led by Society President Mark Padmore. A bite-sized family-friendly version of the concert takes place at 4.30pm (£7.53 incl. bf, u18s free). Conducted by Adrian Partington.

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the nutcracker & the snowman families sun 20 dec start 6pm, £26.50, u16s £13.50 incl. bf

bournemouth symphony orchestra classical wed 30 dec start 7.30pm, £30, £25, £20, £15, stu. £8.50, u18s £1 incl. bf

global beat world thu 31 dec doors 7.30pm, limited early birds £18.50, full price £25 incl. bf stalls part standing

orchestra of the welsh national opera

A treat for families this Christmas. Classic FM's Tim Lihoreau and conductor Neil Thomson will present a suite of music from Tchaikovsky’s muchloved ballet. After the interval, the soundtrack to The Snowman is brought magically to life alongside a screening of the film, including the classic Walking in the Air.

new year viennese gala

Start the celebrations early and see in the New Year in style with the BSO’s traditional celebration of Johann Strauss, the King of Waltz. Don’t miss your chance to hear his waltzes, marches and polkas as they should be heard, played by a full symphony orchestra conducted by Aleksandar Marković.

colston hall's new year's eve party

Hurtle into 2016 to the mash-up of high life, disco, psychedelia and electro-soul pumped out by one of the most thrilling live acts in the country, Ibibio Sound Machine, who have been lighting up festivals throughout the summer. With more headliners and a host of other delights yet to be announced, grab a limited early bird ticket and join us for this joyous soul-shaking party.

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community bristol and district organist association annual concert tue 15 sep, start 7.30pm, free Hear the glorious sound of Colston Hall's concert pipe organ. Soak up the many tonal colours these talented organists will draw from this amazing instrument. Enjoy music old, new, soft, loud, gentle and even hair-raising! The programme will include solo performances, organ duets, improvisation to a short silent film, plus choral works from Bristol's own Phoenix Choir. daz’s rock 4 charity fri 25 sep, start 7.30pm, £10.75 incl. bf, £12.90 incl. bf on the door, stalls part standing It’s the return of Daz and his friends as they present their incredibly popular annual fundraiser. In aid of Bristol City FC captain Louis Carey’s charities: Children’s Hospice South West and Starfish Pool Appeal. Last year’s show was a sell-out so snap up your ticket asap!

63rd festival of male voice praise sat 26 sep, start 6.45pm, £10.75 incl. bf Special guests Hebron join the Bristol and South West Festival of Male Voice praise for an evening of praise, Christian music and testimony.

the rotary club of bristol 53rd senior citizens charity concert sun 4 oct, start 3pm, free The annual charity concert for senior citizens this year features Bristol Youth Choir with conductor David Ogden, Bristol Old Vic Theatre School students, comedian and raconteur Ron Smith, Charlotte Newstead (soprano) with John Marsh (accompanist) who will also lead the singalong, and Simon Goodman on the organ. For tickets contact Andrew Barnes on 0117 9681534 or email andrewNbarnes@ blueyonder.co.uk voices in the hall mon 12 – fri 16 oct, times vary, free Returning to the city for the sixth year the Bristol Festival of Song celebrates the human voice in all its eclectic forms. Voices in the Hall fills the foyer each day from 4.30pm/5pm with the beauty, excitement, power and diverse harmony of the human voice created by singers, choirs and vocal ensembles of all ages from across the South West.

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lunchtime concerts Colston Hall has joined forces with the Royal Academy of Music (RAM) and the Young Classical Artists Trust (YCAT) to present a special series of bite-sized afternoon performances from the rising stars of the classical world. Visit our website or contact the box office for each concert programme. ycat lunchtime concerts

ram lunchtime concerts

thu 1 oct* trio isimsiz

tue 6 oct* deco ensemble

fri 30 oct* trombone: peter moore piano: jonathan ware

tue 13 oct* violin: marta kowalczyk piano: somi kim

mon 30 nov* violin: benjamin baker piano: tbc

wed 21 oct piano: james coleman

thu 28 jan 2016 piano: ji liu thu 25 feb 2016* bassoon: amy harman piano: jonathan ware fri 8 apr 2016 piano: alexander ullman

tue 27 oct* clarinet: jordan black piano: tbc tue 3 nov piano: alexandra gracheva tue 10 nov* trio mirage tue 17 nov* fitzroy string quartet tue 24 nov* vickers bovey guitar duo

*Thanks to CAVATINA Chamber Music Trust, free tickets to selected concerts are available for 8 – 25 year olds. All International Classical Season Chamber Concerts (see our classical season brochure) are eligible as well as the lunchtime concerts marked with an asterisk.

For more information, please contact box office.

all concerts take place in the lantern, 1.05pm, ÂŁ5.50 incl. bf

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learning MixRadio remix academy

October sees the launch of a new look MixRadio Remix Academy with a 10-week programme of musical development for 13 – 19 year olds, focusing on composition, technique, performance, recording and aspects of the music industry. For more information closer to the time, visit www.colstonhall.org/learning/theremix-academy

sees exceptional young musicians from Bristol Plays Music’s Choral and Music Centre North brought closer to the fold with unique performance opportunities and access to Colston Hall’s programme of professional artists. producer uncovered

Our popular music production evening course for adults is back in October with a beginners and intermediate Logic Pro X course and young companies in residence Colston Hall and Bristol Plays Music beginners course in Ableton Live.

Run by professional music producers are proud to announce our two new and guest industry professionals in young companies in residence: the Bristol Youth Choir and Bristol Youth our state-of-the-art education suite.

Orchestra (formerly Bristol Schools’ For more information on the latest Philharmonia). This prestigious title courses, please see pages 15 and 17.

For more information, visit www.colstonhall.org/learning

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weddings a wedding as unique as you are

Whether it’s a grand event or an intimate affair, we offer a striking space with bags of potential and great facilities for all your guests to enjoy. From lighting and catering to theme and style, we’ll help you plan everything down to the finest detail so your event is everything you hope it will be.

Our long history of hosting entertainment means we can accommodate the different and the beautiful – the only limitation is your imagination. Whether you dream of aerial displays, roving magicians, a film screening or a rock ’n’ roll reception, our staff will work with you at every step to deliver your vision.

We offer a range of spaces for you to choose from in both the old and new parts of the building. The best way

With Colston Hall, you will get: •A distinctive venue where stunning modern design meets heritage architecture •A n unbeatable central location right in the heart of Bristol •A blank canvas for you to make your own •H ighly experienced and flexible staff, dedicated to creating your dream day from scratch •A different experience for art lovers, music fans or those just looking for something out of the ordinary

to start imagining your wedding at Colston Hall is to come and see for yourself. For a private tour or more information, please contact Naomi Easy on 0117 204 7104.

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JUMP THE QUEUE. Become a member of Colston Hall and help us to continue to bring the best music, comedy and performing arts to Bristol.

Membership starts at £30 a year with benefits including priority booking, invitations to exclusive members’ events, this free Pocket Planner posted direct to your door, e-updates letting you know when your favourite artists are performing, 10% off drinks and snacks at the bars and 10% off food and drink at Colston St. Bar & Kitchen and Gordito.

Find out more at www.colstonhall.org or ring the box office on 0844 887 1500

www.colstonhall.org

sep

wed 7

best of the edinburgh fringe p15

mon 12 producer uncovered: beginners p15

wed 2 heartless bastards p06

mon 12 editors p15

fri 4

sweet billy pilgrim p06

mon 12 simone felice p16

sat 5

doc brown p06

mon 12 voices in the hall p44

sat 5

colston hall record & cd fair p06

tue 13

sally barker p16

sun 6

sufjan stevens p07

tue 13

producer uncovered: beginners p15

mon 7

jessica pratt p07

tue 13

voices in the hall p44

fri 11

colin cloud p07

tue 13

ram lunchtime concert p45

sat 12

west of england male voice choirs p08

wed 14 steve earle & the dukes p16

sun 13

get the blessing p08

wed 14 producer uncovered: intermediate p17

tue 15 bristol & district organist association p44

wed 14 voices in the hall p44

wed 16 richard thompson p08 thu 17

j ohn lees’ barclay james harvest p08

fri 18

fred macaulay p09

sat 19

the september swing p09

wed 23 frisky & mannish p09 thu 24

kris drever & ian carr p10

fri 25

daz’s rock 4 charity p44

sat 26 martin carthy & dave swarbrick p10

wed 14 vetiver p17 thu 15

voices in the hall p44

fri 16

voices in the hall p44

sat 17

bristol choral society p17

sun 18

jon gomm p17

sun 18

yo la tengo p18

mon 19 souljazz orchestra p18 tue 20

bassekou kouyaté & ngoni ba p18

wed 21 asian dub foundation’s thx 1138 p19 wed 21 nish kumar p20

sat 26 63rd festival of male voice praise p44

wed 21 ram lunchtime concert p45

sun 27

fri 23 godspeed you! black emperor p20

suzzy roche & lucy wainwright roche p10

thu 22

hothouse flowers p20

mon 28 stephen johnson & english

piano trio p11

sat 24

simple things festival p21

sun 25

an evening with donovan p21

tue 29

mon 26 steve backshall’s wild world p21

sain zahoor p11

wed 30 beats & pieces p11

oct

tue 27

ella henderson p22

tue 27

dan clark p22

tue 27

ram lunchtime concert p45

wed 28 daptone’s saun & starr p22

thu 1

squeeze p13

thu 1

ycat lunchtime concert p45

fri 2

dresden philharmonic p13

sat 3

xiu xiu p13

sun 4

namvula p14

sun 4

the rotary club of bristol charity concert p44

fri 30

ycat lunchtime concert p45

fri 30

james acaster p23

mon 5

bryan ferry p14

sat 31

james acaster p23

tue 6

project zulu gala concert p14

tue 6

ram lunchtime concert p45

wed 7

belinda carlisle p14

wed 28 steve hackett p23 thu 29 bournemouth symphony orchestra p23 fri 30 harry enfield & paul whitehouse p23

n jazz, folk & world n light entertainment n rock and pop n families n comedy n education n community n classical

nov

thu 26

braids p34

fri 27

jimmy carr p34

mon 2

destroyer p25

fri 27

laurel halo p34

tue 3

kevin bridges p25

sat 28

this is the kit p35

tue 3

hot 8 brass band p25

sat 28

made in bristol gift fair p35

tue 3

ram lunchtime concert p45

sun 29 royal marines band charity concert p35

wed 4

kevin bridges p25

wed 4

best of the edinburgh fringe p25

mon 30 harry enfield & paul whitehouse p35

thu 5

tommy tiernan p26

mon 30 ycat lunchtime concert p45

fri 6

stewart francis p26

fri 6

festival of the spoken nerd p26

sat 7

festival of the spoken nerd p26

dec

sat 7

the staves p26

tue 1

sun 8

joe satriani p27

tue 1

best of the edinburgh fringe p37

sun 8

the last train track feat. sam lee p27

wed 2

kings oak academy concert

mon 9

richard hawley p27

thu 3

the waterboys p37

tue 10

julia holter p27

thu 3

hal cruttenden p38

tue 10

ram lunchtime concert p45

fri 4

ronnie spector p38

wed 11 TEDxBristol p28

sat 5

made in bristol gift fair p38

thu 12 bournemouth symphony orchestra p28

sun 6

uwe centre for performing arts p39 bristol post christmas carol concert p39 north somerset schools concert

fri 13

kamasi washington p28

mon 7

sat 14

andreya triana p29

tue 8

thunderbirds are go p37

sun 15 john wilson & the john wilson orchestra p29

wed 9 bristol cathedral choir school

christmas concert p39

sun 15

béla fleck & abigail washburn p29

sun 15

somali stars p29

thu 10 bournemouth symphony orchestra p39

mon 16 brit floyd p30 tue 17

raf in concert 2015 p30

tue 17

oysters 3 p30

tue 17

ram lunchtime concert p45

wed 18 söndörgö p30 thu 19

in dreams: david lynch revisited p31

fri 20

will young p32

sat 21

beardyman p32

sat 21

frank turner p32

sat 21

colston hall record & cd fair p33

sun 22

frank turner p32

sun 22

chris ramsey p33

fri 11

an evening with noel fielding p40

sat 12

gareth malone p40

sat 12

colston christmas ceilidh p40

sat 12

made in bristol gift fair p38

sun 13

jools holland & his rhythm & blues orchestra p41

sun 13

shine p41

sun 13

made in bristol gift fair p38

mon 14 caro emerald p41 tue 15

texas p41

thu 17

bootleg beatles p42

fri 18

sheelanagig’s christmas shindig p42

mon 23 chris ramsey p33

sat 19 handel’s messiah & mini messiah p42

tue 24

sun 20

ram lunchtime concert p45

the nutcracker & the snowman p43

wed 25 sweet liberties p33

wed 30 new year viennese gala p43

wed 25 25 years of reeves & mortimer p33

thu 31

thu 26

25 years of reeves & mortimer p33

global beat nye party p43

we are here Colston Hall, Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5AR

Please note, this programme is correct at time of going to press.

booking fees All prices include a 7.5% booking fee (bf) – for more details visit www.colstonhall.org box office hours Monday – Saturday 10am – 6pm feeling social?

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for ticket competitions, first news on event updates and much more facebook.com/ColstonHall @Colston_Hall instagram.com/colstonhall soundcloud.com/colstonhall box office 0844 887 1500* www.colstonhall.org Bristol Music Trust is a registered charity in England & Wales (no. 1140898) *Calls cost 5p per minute, plus your phone company's access charge