Gala brochure spring 2014

gala theatre & cinema Spring 2014

WelcOMe As we move into 2014, like many organisations across Europe, we are focusing on offering a fitting and heartfelt commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of World War I. As such, the centrepiece of our Spring season is a compelling and moving production of the Sebastian Faulks novel Birdsong, which tells the story of a young Englishman who leads his men through the Battle of the Somme, comforted only by the memory of his former lover.

The response to the production from press and public alike has been exceptional, and there has never been a more appropriate time to present this magnificently moving story of love, courage and sacrifice.

We think it is a wonderful way to mark this most important of centenaries, and I would urge you not to miss this show Don’t forget, while you are in the City, why not visit our friends at Durham’s other theatres, the Assembly Rooms and the City Theatre.

There is much to be enjoyed this season, and I hope you will enjoy it with us.

Robin Byers Programming & Operations Manager Gala Theatre

gala Online…

There are loads of ways to stay connected with Gala via the internet. Here’s how…

Booking online is the quickest and easiest way to get tickets for your favourite event. And whether for a theatre or cinema performance, you can select your own seat when booking. Just go to our website.

Being one of our Facebook friends is the most direct way of keeping up-to-date with everything that’s happening at Gala, with regular updates of all our events and activities and some exclusive Facebook ticket offers. Just search for us in Facebook and click LIKE on our page to join in.

Our Facebook account also links to Twitter, so if you’re more of a tweeter then you can follow us at www.twitter.com/galadurham

The Hannon Murphy Dance School present:

MuRPhy's leGacy An exciting new Irish dance show, featuring performers from the Hannon Murphy School and electrifying Irish folk band The Craikers, who add an exciting, energetic soundtrack to the performance. The 30 strong cast includes All Ireland Champions and principal dancers from the famous Lord of the Dance shows. The combination of modern choreography and high-energy traditional music will have audiences buzzing with excitement. All proceeds will be used for new class costumes for the World Irish Dancing Championships in London.

Sunday 12 January 7.30pm | £11 (£9 conc), (£8 Students and Gala Friends)

The cOMedy sTORe Another great line-up of the best comedians on the touring circuit to bring a little joy to a miserable January. Three comics and your MC for the evening provide the laughs. Contains strong language, recommended age 16+.

Friday 17 January 7.45pm | £8.50 (£15 Curry & Comedy)

Funny BOnes cOMedy cluB Psst... want a good laugh and a top night out? Then head up to our Studio where Funny Bones will bring comedy just that bit closer. Your host Abi Roberts introduces the fast paced Geordie delivery of Christian Steel, hilarious Jellybean Martinez and belly laughs a-plenty from Mike Milligan. And why not join us for a pre-show curry (serving from 6.00pm to 7.00pm)… just ask the Box Office for details. Contains strong language, recommended age 16+.

gala corporate

Our Corporate Partners include New College Durham and the North East Chamber of Commerce. We thank them for their valued support.

For more details of our corporate scheme, please contact 03000 266601.

3 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 11 January 7.30pm | £11 (£9 conc)

4 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Gala Lunchtime Concert Series 1.00pm - 2.00pm Paul Edis (Solo Piano) | £4 Friday 17 January

Durham born Paul has a reputation as a creative, virtuosic and sensitive performer. Well established on the local jazz scene, his music is starting to makes waves nationally and internationally, getting broadcast on BBC Radio 3 and in the US. In September, he released his debut solo album which has gone on to receive great critical acclaim.

Djangologie | £4 Friday 21 February

This uplifting, humorous and swinging gypsy-jazz ensemble, regularly perform across the country.

To mark the release of their new album, this concert will feature Reinhardt/Grappelli favourites such as Nuages and The Sheik of Araby interspersed with some exciting new compositions. James Birkett (guitar), Giles Strong (guitar), Emma Fiske (violin) and Mick Shoulder (double bass).

The Mo Scott Trio | £4 Friday 21 March

Mo has established a reputation as an exciting female singer, through her performances at major jazz and blues festivals. Carrying on the tradition of great female vocalists, she performs music ranging from the most delicate of jazz ballads to hot blues. The trio, with pianist Paul Edis and bassist Neil Harland, sees Mo leading a band that can truly swing.

James Birkett/Bradley Johnston | £4 Friday 25 April

From Eddie Lang and Django Reinhardt to Pat Metheny and beyond, the jazz guitar has universal appeal. This duo present a programme of music by some of the most influential players of the last hundred years - taking the audience from early jazz and blues, through swing and be-bop, to cool and contemporary jazz.

The Dance Fusion Academy present:

BRinG The BeaT Back The popular local dance school, present their third annual show. Pupils from all areas of County Durham provide a night of entertainment through a huge variety of music, suitable for all ages. From up-to-date uplifting beats, to old school classics and a mixture of street dance and contemporary dance, it will be a great night’s entertainment.

Saturday 18 January 8.00pm | £12

alex hORne lies The multi-Bafta award-winning stand-up and platinum-selling R&B artist Alex Horne is back. On the back of yet another sell-out stadium tour, the triple Perrier-winning comedian, original host of Blockbusters and former Mr Universe presents a show packed full of jokes, impressions and lies. Best known for mindblowing Powerpoint or live music, this show has neither; just Alex, a panda, some jokes and some lies.

Although one of those may also be a lie. Or a joke. Either way, it’ll be funny. Honest. “a beguiling blend of the smart and the stupid… a real delight” The sunday Times

5 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 18 January 7.00pm | £10

6 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Tuesday 21 - Saturday 25 January 7.30pm (+ Wed & Sat 2.30pm) £13.50 (£10 conc), £9.50 DST Members; First Night & Wed Matinee, £12 (£8.50 conc), £8 DST Members DULOG present:

Guys & dOlls Durham University Light Opera Group are back for their annual show at Gala, following the success of Fame last year. Transporting the audience back to 1950s New York, Guys and Dolls tells the story of a bet between sharp-suited, law-breaking gamblers Nathan Detroit and Sky Masterson, evolving into a tale of romance against all odds, crap-shooting and the struggle to save a Salvation Army mission, punctuated by a brilliant score with classics such as Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat and Luck Be A Lady.

sTeWaRT lee Much a-sTeW aBOuT nOThinG Following the sell-out Carpet Remnant World, the acclaimed writer and comedian presents a mixed stew of new ideas in preparation for a third BBC TV series.

Exploring ideas from parental alcoholism, justifiable shoplifting, urban foxes, and vasectomies, to Helena Bonham Carter, Anglo Saxon epic poetry, The Big Bang and Judith Chalmers - see it live so you can begin the backlash ahead of transmission. “undoubtedly the best comedian in Britain” daily Mirror “a slime-pit of bitterness" Jan Moir, daily Mail Wednesday 29 January 7.30pm | £18.50

dR FeelGOOd Formed on Canvey Island in the early 1970s, Dr. Feelgood remain one of the most popular and exciting live rhythm and blues acts in the world. Their raw and uncompromising style has given the band global success, and the current line-up features Kevin Morris (drums) and Phil Mitchell (bass), both 29 years in the band; with Steve Walwyn (guitar) who has been with the band for 23 years and vocalist Robert Kane who joined in 1999 after the tragic death of Lee Brilleaux.

They’re a live force to be reckoned with.

7 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Sunday 26 January 8.00pm | £20

8 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Thursday 30 January 7.00pm | £15 (£13 conc), £10 Gala Friends NT Live present:

cORiOlanus

By William shakespeare National Theatre Live broadcast a Donmar Warehouse production. When an old adversary threatens Rome, the city calls on her hero and defender, Coriolanus. But famine threatens the city, the citizens’ hunger swells to an appetite for change, and on returning from the field, Coriolanus must confront the voice of an angry people. Josie Rourke directs Shakespeare’s searing tragedy of political manipulation and revenge, with Tom Hiddleston (The Avengers, War Horse (film), BBC's The Hollow Crown) in the title role. Also starring Mark Gatiss (BBC's Sherlock) as Menenius.

GeRRy cROss The MeRsey Join in this musical journey through the life and times of one of our greatest 60s icons. Gerry & The Pacemakers topped the UK and US charts for much of the 60s. Here the great man talks about his early beginnings in Liverpool and the heady days of the 1960s up to the present. Hear all the band’s greatest hits, mixed with stories, jokes and anecdotes from his years at the top, in an evening of fun and music.

Sunday 2 February 8.00pm | £22.50

PunT & dennis PlOuGhinG On ReGaRdless It’s mid-winter. The roads are icy.

The gritting lorries are out in force, the pavements are slippery, and the news broadcasts are full of people telling viewers to ‘send us your pictures of snow’. Everyone has a cold.

The boiler has broken down again and the gas bill is due. The AA are busy advising comedians ‘not to tour the country unless it is absolutely essential’.

Despite all this, Punt and Dennis, stars of Mock The Week, The Now Show and Outnumbered are Ploughing On Regardless. “the kings of satirical comedy” The Guardian Tuesday 4 February 7.30pm | £5 New College Durham present:

FROM scReen TO sTaGe The talented performing arts students from New College present an eclectic mix of songs from your favourite films. The selection includes title tracks, and interpretations from iconic films such as Sweet Charity, Chicago, Footloose and Breakfast at Tiffanys. In addition to singing, students will demonstrate contemporary dance skills, as they portray work based on the style of Bob Fosse and inspired by the great clowning genius Charlie Chaplin.

9 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 1 February 7.30pm | £19.50

10 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Wednesday 5 February 8.00pm | £15 (£13 conc)

david O’dOheRTy Will TRy TO Fix eveRyThinG David O'Doherty: the Ryanair James Bond, the Kevin McCloud of the tiny keyboard, former Miss Ireland, the offspring of Shannon/Pete Doherty. His new look is Jaws-era Steven Spielberg. The recipient of the 2008 Edinburgh Comedy Award and inventor of the last remaining swimming stroke, The Squid (on back, feet first), has written a new comedy show with both talking and songs. No Scrubs.

Friday 7 February 7.45pm | £8.50 (£15 Curry & Comedy)

Funny BOnes cOMedy cluB Small intimate venue? Check. Four fantastically funny folk? Yes. Bucket loads of laughs? Got ‘em. Eager punters up for a laugh…? Well, that’s where you come in.

Join MC Lee Kyle, who introduces the big man of Northern comedy, Steffen Peddie (Hebburn’s Big Keith), award winning Andy Fury and Newcastle’s bright young comedy talent, Lauren Pattison. And why not join us for a pre-show curry (serving from 6.00pm to 7.00pm)… just ask the Box Office for details. Contains strong language, recommended age 16+.

11 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 8 February 8.00pm | SOLD OUT

chRis RaMsey The MOsT danGeROus Man On saTuRday MORninG Tv After being ‘sent off’ the Soccer AM sofa last year for misbehaving, Chris wonders whether he really is the Most Dangerous Man on Saturday Morning TV. Fresh from a complete sell-out 2012 tour, multiple appearances on Celebrity Juice and 8 Out of 10 Cats, and a starring role in BBC2’s Hebburn, Chris embarks on a brand new tour. Taking his brush with on air censorship as a jumping off point to muse on life, mistakes, expectation and offence, he examines what happens when you say the wrong thing in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Monday 10 February 7.30pm | £12

Chester-le-Street Theatre Group present:

calendaR GiRls This poignant and humourous production, penned by Tim Firth, explores the themes of love, loss and friendship with humour and courage. All profits from this performance will be donated to Lymphoma & Leukaemia Research. Tim Firth’s play has been offered on limited release to amateur groups to raise much needed funds for this cause, and this popular local group are proud to be bringing the show to Gala.

MR dRayTOn’s RecORd PlayeR Relax with a drink or two, and wallow in classic sounds played from good old warm vinyl as comedian, music fan and all round good-egg, Mr Drayton wheels out his trusty record player. Enjoy classic albums the way they were meant to be heard: in their entirety, played start-to-finish. With a slide show, a quiz where top prizes can be won and postalbum banter in Gala’s Studio, your entertaining host dishes out the good vibes at these regular musical evenings.

Start time is 7.30pm. Tickets: £5 11 February 4 March 25 March 22 april

The Who, Quadrophenia Eagles, Hotel California Sex Pistols, Never Mind The B******s Queen, A Night At The Opera

12 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Wednesday 12 February 8.00pm | £15 (£13 conc)

FesTival OF The sPOken neRd Full FROnTal neRdiTy Fresh from the Edinburgh Fringe, the comedy Nerds bring us a brand new show for the insatiably sci-curious. Whether you loved or loathed the school science lab, they’re here to feed your brain, tickle your ribs and light your Bunsen burner. Stand-up mathematician Matt Parker, experiments maestro Steve Mould and geeky songstress Helen Arney mix astonishing science with statistically significant comedy - and maybe some things that go bang. With over a million views on YouTube, the geeks have inherited the earth. Recommended age: 15+ “harnesses comedy to highlight what is fun - and funny - about science” new scientist

Written by leesa harker Tuesday 11 February 7.30pm £20 (£18 conc)

The best selling one-woman send up of 50 Shades of Grey tells the story of a loveable lass and her search for love.

Maggie is a working class girl who knows what she wants in a man, but like most women, has been let down by all the men in her life. While attending an interview, she meets the handsome and hunky Mr Big. Will he turn out to be the man of her dreams, or will his Private Room of Pain put her off? This hilarious new play full of love, booze and whips is the perfect girly night out. Prepare for the funniest, sexiest (and maybe naughtiest) show of the year.

With strong language and themes of an adult nature, this show is unsuitable for anyone under the age of 16.

M6 Theatre present:

GRandPa’s RailWay A playful journey of discovery with Grandpa and his working model railway. From the team behind the highly acclaimed Mavis Sparkle, comes this brand new original production for children and families. Featuring live music, a working model railway and a coachload of surprises, our playful characters embark on an evocative journey that explores the past, illuminates the present and lays new tracks for the future. For all adventurers aged 5+.

Sunday 16 February 7.30pm | £20

FascinaTinG aida Following a sold-out 2012 tour, three Olivier Award nominations and over 10 million YouTube hits for Cheap Flights (their infamous anthem to budget air travel), Dillie Keane, Adele Anderson and Liza Pulman celebrate 30 years of Fascinating Aida with a brand new show. Expect topical new songs hot off the press, plus some outrageous old favourites, as the girls continue to grow old disgracefully. “the glamour is magnetic, the satire razor-sharp, the lyrics brilliant” The Guardian

13 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 15 February 3.00pm | £5, £18 Family Ticket

14 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 22 February 7.30pm | £20

It's fun all the way as the purveyors of cool swing into town with this sensational show complete with live orchestra and featuring the greatest music of the 20th century.

With wonderful memories of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jnr this fabulous production continues to be successful worldwide. All totally live and every song is an absolute classic: Come Fly With Me, Under My Skin, Sway, Mr Bojangles, Fly Me To The Moon, That's Amore, Mack the Knife, plus many more of your favourites. Enjoy timeless style, and a great fun night out.

The BBC summed it up in a word…Magnificent.

Tuesday 18 February 8.00pm | £15 (£13 conc)

Miles JuPP is The chaP yOu’Re ThinkinG OF In this show the star of Rev and The Thick Of It will be discussing/ranting/describing: himself, you, domestic imprisonment, fatherhood, having opinions, hot drinks, the bloody government, bad balance, the ageing process, navigation, other people's pants and, inevitably, a number of other things. Pretty spicy stuff, I'm sure you'll agree. Bits of it will be quite mild-mannered, and some of it will probably be a tad on the stroppy side. It's a man, standing on a stage, facing an audience, talking about some things and ultimately aiming to cover the cost of his white goods. “someone you could listen to forever on almost any subject” British comedy Guide

The original stage production of War Horse is broadcast live from London’s West End. Since its first performance in 2007, the play has become an international smash hit, capturing the imagination of four million people around the world. Based on Michael Morpurgo’s novel and adapted for the stage by Nick Stafford, War Horse takes audiences on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of First World War France. Filled with stirring music and songs, this powerfully moving and imaginative drama is a show of phenomenal inventiveness. At its heart are astonishing life-size puppets by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, who bring breathing, galloping, charging horses to thrilling life on stage. Don’t miss this landmark production on the big screen at Gala.

15 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Thursday 27 February (Live), 7.00pm Monday 3 March (Encore), 2.00pm & 7.00pm Plus Monday 3 March, 9.30am (Schools Performance)

16 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Gala Theatre Stage School Ensemble present

B a g n i B d e Th xperience E

Friday 28 February - Saturday 1 March 7.30pm (+ Sat 2.30pm) | £12 (£10 conc)

There’s nothing quite like the sound of a big band in full swing. Following on from the recent success of Grease, Gala’s own Stage School bring you a fantastic evening of big band driven tunes. With a live 17-piece band and vocalists that are some of the most talented in the North East, it’s a night guaranteed to put a spring in your step after listening to classics like Get Happy, Let There Be Love, Under The Sea and many more. With guest appearance by David Ball.

Sunday 2 March 3.00pm £14 (£7 students) FREE for under 17s

ORchesTRa nORTh easT The popular local orchestra present a matinee concert of music for all. The programme includes Tchaikovsky’s first piano concerto which, with its dramatic opening is one of the greatest hits of the piano repertoire, and Sibelius’s seventh symphony, a single movement work of great musical poetry.

With Thomas Blunt (conductor) and Gülsin Onay (piano).

Thursday 6 - Saturday 8 March 7.30pm (+ Sat 2.30pm) | £15 (£10 conc) Durham High School for Girls present:

The kinG & i These talented young performers present a lavish production of the classic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical to enchant both young and old. This amateur production is by arrangement with R & H Theatricals Europe Ltd.

MiTch Benn …is The 37th BeaTle The country's leading musical satirist’s new show combines his Scouse upbringing with his love of music, and lifelong obsession with Liverpool's most famous sons. This expertly-crafted show is perfect for anyone who likes pop music or anyone who likes a laugh. It’s most definitely not a tribute show, and while his affection for the fab four is well documented, expect the satirical twists for which Mitch is well known.

Many have claimed the title Fifth Beatle - they can't all be right.

Sunday 9 March 7.30pm | £11 (£9 conc), (£8 Students and Gala Friends)

The cOMedy sTORe Top quality laughs guaranteed from The Comedy Store. Your MC introduces three comedians who are all raring to entertain the good folks of Durham. Contains strong language, recommended age 16+.

Friday 14 March 7.45pm | £8.50 (£15 Curry & Comedy)

Funny BOnes cOMedy cluB With a nod to our friends hosting the International Women's Day festival, March’s show is a line-up of the finest funny females. All ready to roll are: Middlesbrough’s magical musical comic, Natalie Wicks, the wonderful spontaneity of Debra-Jane Appleby and the one liners and silly stories of Nicola Jane Mantalios-Lovett. Holding the whole thing together will be the well-crafted wit of MC, Kiri Pritchard-McLean.

And why not join us for a pre-show curry (serving from 6.00pm to 7.00pm)… just ask the Box Office for details. Contains strong language, recommended age 16+.

17 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Thursday 6 March 8.00pm | £15

18 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

The Original Theatre Company present:

BiRdsOnG By sebastian Faulks adapted by Rachel Wagstaff As the war breaks out over the idyll of his former life, young Englishman Stephen Wraysford must lead his men through the carnage of the Battle of the Somme, only comforted by the memory of former lover Isabelle Azaire as his world explodes around him.

Marking the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of World War I, and following on from last year’s national tour, seen by over 75,000 people, this mesmerising story of love, courage and sacrifice is brought to the stage in this critically acclaimed production of Sebastian Faulks’ bestselling novel.

“it left me choked up and blinking back the tears at the end” daily Telegraph “a moving and stunning performance” ★★★★★ WhatsOnstage “stunning, compelling, powerful - if you see one play this year, make it Birdsong” Folkestone herald “the audience were too stunned to move by the raw emotional power of this stunning piece of theatre” ★★★★★ This is cornwall “achingly beautiful, moving, incredible” Birmingham Post

19 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Monday 10 - Saturday 15 March 7.30pm (+ Wed & Sat 2.30pm) £25 (£23 conc), £22 First Night, Matinee & Gala Friends

20 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Tuesday 18 & Wednesday 19 March 7.30pm | £18 (£14 conc) Durham School present:

les MiseRaBles As part of a special programme of events celebrating its 600th year, Durham School brings to Gala two spectacular performances of Les Miserables. Set amidst the political turmoil of 19th century France, it’s a sensational musical about love, heartache and redemption. This is a great opportunity to see the combined musical and dramatic prowess of Durham School students in action on Gala’s stage.

Friday 21 March 7.30pm | £13

chanTel McGReGOR Imagine the inspiration of Hendrix, the tone of Robin Trower, the influence of Stevie Ray Vaughan, the intensity of Walter Trout and the haunting vocals of Stevie Nicks all rolled into one package.

That’s Chantel McGregor, one of the UK’s most exciting rock and blues musicians. With stunning live performances, and effortless, incendiary guitar playing, she has performed on stage with Joe Bonamassa and is a multi-award winner at the British Blues Awards.

Don’t miss her.

Friday 21 March 8.00pm | £12 (£10 conc)

TOM WRiGGlesWORTh uTTeRly aT Odds WiTh The univeRse The award winning comedian returns with an exquisite new show. Both poignant and hilarious, Tom takes an emotional journey exploring his profound relationship with his grandad, and the influence he has had on his life. Expect elegant flourishes of language, twisted logic and whimsical storytelling courtesy of one of the finest and most original comics in the UK. You could also expect next week’s lottery numbers, but let’s deal with one thing at a time. Simply put, it’s about Tom. Recommended age 16+ “the gods of comedy chose Tom Wrigglesworth for greatness” The scotsman

Let Them Knock present:

The BOBBy ThOMPsOn sTORy Written and performed by Pete Peverley Bobby Thompson’s woodbine smoking Little Waster alter ego became a folk hero across the North East, yet this hid a man troubled by drink, gambling debts and the tax man. Pete Peverley returns with his heartfelt and very funny celebration of the life and work of this comic legend. Using Bobby’s original costumes, the show is packed with his best material and follows his life from humble beginnings in a County Durham pit village in 1911 to radio star of the 50s. It all went wrong in the 60s but he fought his way back to become the king of clubland in the 70s and 80s. Relive some of your magical memories of this very special man.

Wednesday 26 March 7.30pm £13 (£11 conc), £10 Gala Friends

andy kiRkPaTRick inaPPROPRiaTe cliMBinG The best selling author and comedian returns, and since his last visit to Gala, Andy has been climbing all over the world and has loads of new stories to tell. This time around, the maverick mountaineer will be talking about climbing El Cap with his 13year-old daughter (as featured in CBBC’s My Life series), revisiting Norway’s Troll Wall and his winter expedition to attempt the North Face of the Eiger. The only ‘stand-up mountaineer’ in the UK, Andy is a hugely entertaining and inspiring speaker. Contains some strong language. “gut-wrenching, entertaining and challenging - appeals to the adventurer in all of us” The Guardian

21 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 22 March 7.30pm | £15 (£13 conc)

22 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 29 March 7.30pm £10, FREE for Gala Friends

BaTanai MaRiMBa aFRika alive TOuR Fronted by the exuberance and charisma of Zimbabwean lead singer/marimba-man Wedzi, and featuring a pan-African line-up mixing traditional Southern African marimbas and percussion with alto sax, mbiras, bass and soaring vocal harmonies, Batanai have a captivating contemporary sound fused with beautiful ancient melodies and township music. With their powerful and vibrant stage shows, Batanai have an unstoppable momentum guaranteed to lift the soul.

Sunday 30 March 7.30pm | £22.50

kaTe RusBy Of all the stars in folk music, few shine as brightly as Yorkshire’s Kate Rusby.

With a rare ability to emotionally transport an audience, her wondrous singing and hugely engaging Yorkshire wit ensure that audiences are treated to an unforgettable concert. With the cream of British folk musicians in her band, and a choice of much-loved classics from her back catalogue stretching over two decades of music making, Kate delights in returning to some smaller, more intimate theatres not visited in recent years. “pocket-sized folk singer with the heartbreakingly tremulous voice and bawdy Yorkshire wit” daily Telegraph

Northern Ballet present:

ThRee liTTle PiGs Following the sell-out success of Ugly Duckling, the company’s first ballet especially for children, Northern Ballet bring us their brand new ballet for our youngest audiences. With one house of straw, one house of sticks and one house of bricks, will any of the pigs be smart enough to escape the big bad wolf? Or will he huff and puff and blow their houses down. Bringing the timeless fairytale to life, Three Little Pigs is the perfect opportunity to introduce your little ones to the magic of live ballet, music and theatre. These child friendly performances will last approximately 40 minutes.

Thursday 3 April 7.30pm | £16 (£14 conc)

The Reduced Shakespeare Company present:

The BiBle: The cOMPleTe WORd OF GOd (aBRidGed) The Good Book just got better. It’s apocalypse now as the three cultural guerrillas of The Reduced Shakespeare Company set their reductive sights on the Bible. It’s an affectionate, irreverent roller-coaster ride from fig leaves to final judgment as the bad boys of abridgement tackle the great theological questions: Did Adam and Eve have navels?

And did Moses really look like Charlton Heston? Whether you are Catholic or Protestant, Muslim or Jew, Atheist or Jedi, you will be tickled by the RSC’s romp through old time religion. It’s a slick, fast, very funny show from skilled performers with immaculate, sassy timing. “the RSC put the ‘fun’ back in fundamentalism” Baltimore sun

23 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Wednesday 2 April 12.15pm, 2.00pm & 6.30pm | £5 (£4 conc)

24 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 5 April 7.30pm | £17 (£15 conc)

JOhn cOOPeR claRke Plus sPecial GuesTs The poet laureate of punk and self-styled bard of Salford, John is a comic wordsmith and one of Britain’s most important poets and performers. His satirical and fiercely funny verse, expressed in his rapid-fire performance style, led him to become a punk figurehead. After touring with ground-breaking bands including the Sex Pistols and The Clash, he carved out a name for himself and produced his seminal works Evidently Chickentown and Beasley Street. Expect a mix of hilarious anecdotes of Northern life, interspersed with some of his best poems. As vital now, as he was then.

Saturday 19 April 7.30pm | £10

The dOORs live aT The BOWl '68 Widely held as the band’s best performance ever captured on film, for the first time, fans can watch the complete concert in digitally remastered glory with surround sound. Beautifully filmed, the entire concert has been carefully restored from the original camera negatives and opens with special interviews with the band talking about what it meant to perform at the Hollywood Bowl and the enduring significance of this concert. More than 40 years after their debut album, The Doors’ music and legacy are more influential than ever, and this film shows why they were such a dynamic live force.

Tuesday 8 - Saturday 12 April 7.15pm (+ Wed & Sat 2.15pm) £18.50 (£16.50 conc); Matinees £16.50 (£14.50 conc). Group discounts available.

Durham Musical Theatre Company stage the Northern amateur premiere of this sweeping musical epic recounting one of the most electrifying love stories ever told, set against the backdrop of the French Revolution. Based on the Charles Dickens novel, A Tale of Two Cities has been turned into an exciting musical theatre experience, while remaining true to the original work. The musical is filled with a fabulous score of soaring ballads, rousing anthems and sweeping melodies which recall other humanity-rich musicals, such as Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera and Miss Saigon.

It’s a fast-moving musical switching between Paris and London, which explores injustice, vengeance and the redemptive power of love.

25 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

DMTC present:

26 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Sunday 13 April 7.30pm | £20, £18 Groups (10+)

sTaRRinG lesley JOsePh After five sell out UK tours, Hot Flush returns. Share in the friendships, the secrets, the laughs, the tears and the ups and downs of four ordinary women and one man - living extraordinary lives. A real laugh out loud musical comedy, that’s more fun than joining a gym and cheaper than Botox, Hot Flush might even leave you feeling 34½ again. So wipe away the credit crunch blues and grab your girlfriends together for an unmissable night at the theatre and bring your man along as well.

Think Sex And The City with HRT and funny songs.

Sunday 14 April 7.30pm £11 (£9 conc), (£8 Students and Gala Friends)

The cOMedy sTORe Another night of fun and laughter, courtesy of our old chums at The Comedy Store. The line-up includes three of the circuit’s best comics, all introduced by your host for the evening. Contains strong language, recommended age 16+.

Funny BOnes cOMedy cluB Why not come and join us for Funny Bones? Get your funny-muscles tickled and start the weekend with a chuckle, courtesy of some of the circuit’s finest young comedians, including MC Warren Speed introducing the turns. Expect cracking gags and audience banter from David Ward, the warm and laid back style of Paul James and laughs galore from Catherine Scott. And why not join us for a pre-show curry (serving from 6.00pm to 7.00pm)… just ask the Box Office for details.

Contains strong language, recommended age 16+.

Sunday 20 April 8.00pm | £17.50

Russell kane sMallness What is it with us and smallness? We Brits love it - being tiny but fierce, close but distant. This Jedward-haired award-winning idiot is the same, and he returns with a new blisteringly big-small show. Watch him ejaculate thoughts about smallness; on keeping things small when life gets big. “a smart, probing brain lurks below the vertiginous quiff” evening standard

27 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Friday 18 April 7.45pm | £8.50 (£15 Curry & Comedy)

28 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Tuesday 22 April 7.30pm | £17.50

The siMOn and GaRFunkel sTORy 50Th anniveRsaRy TOuR Direct from London's West End, award winning actor Dean Elliott (Buddy Holly in Buddy - The Musical) and a full cast of performers tell the compelling story of the greatest music duo of all time in this 50th anniversary celebration. Using original photos and film footage, the show also features a full live band performing all their hits, including: Mrs Robinson, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more. It promises to be a very special musical evening. "an exceptional piece of theatre" choice Radio Wednesday 23 April 7.30pm | £15

an eveninG WiTh GeRvase Phinn The author, radio and TV personality and master raconteur returns to Gala to delight audiences with his hilarious and heart-warming tales of his time as a schools inspector in the Northern dales.

He can’t fail to raise your spirits, and the evening, organised by the Rotary Club of Crook, is all in aid of Rotary-supported charities.

Friday 25 April 8.00pm | £22.50

JeRRy sadOWiTz cOMedian, MaGician, PsychOPaTh Jerry is best known as an offensive comedian but he is also one of the world’s most skilled and creative card magicians. In this show you'll get to see some amazing sleight of hand and some original magic projected on a large screen which means you automatically get a front row seat without having to actually sit near him! Not for the easily offended, but a fantastic show of slick card tricks, slight of hand and hard hitting humour which comes at you like a runaway train.

Please note that this show is not suitable for anyone with less than £22.50. “genius... astounds, amuses and appals in equal measure” The Times

an eveninG WiTh MOnTy dOn dOWn TO eaRTh Monty is a renowned gardening writer, BBC television presenter, and one of the UK's favourite and most respected gardeners. With TV credits include Gardeners’ World, Around The World In 80 Gardens and the popular series’ Italian Gardens and French Gardens, gardening is woven through his whole life. Here, he talks about his life and travels, what really happens behind the scenes when filming, of how he made his own organic garden from a bare field and how understanding and working with nature enriches and empowers us all.

Sunday 27 April 7.30pm | £19.50

The seaRcheRs The Searchers contributed enormously to establishing the UK as the world’s leading nation in the music industry. At their peak in a time which was the most imaginative period of musical creativity, the band are still going strong. Along with their classic hits: Sweets For My Sweet, Needles and Pins, Don’t Throw Your Love Away and When You Walk In The Room, the show is packed with anecdotes and reminiscences, from one of this country’s finest bands.

Tuesday 29 April 7.00pm | £5

New College Durham present:

hiTs & haiRdOs Music lovers in County Durham are invited to take a trip to the decade that style forgot, as students from New College Durham present a musical extravaganza. There will be glitter, flares and platform shoes in abundance as the youngsters take a look at the songs and artists of the 1970s as part of their BTEC Level 3 in Music.

29 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 26 April 7.30pm | £18, £16 Gala Friends

30 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

FORThcOMinG aTTRacTiOns Saturday 3 May 7.30pm | £20 (£19 conc)

The BiG chRis BaRBeR Band With over 60 years as a bandleader, the legendary Chris Barber and his 11-piece band are still on great form. Playing a selection of his favourite music: from his roots in New Orleans style in Bourbon Street Parade (still his signature tune) to the early music of Duke Ellington, Sidney Bechet and back to When the Saints… all played with extraordinary panache, humour and skill. The Big Chris Barber Band perform an evening of exciting jazz and blues, jumping with energy.

Thursday 8 - Saturday 10 May 7.30pm (+ Sat 2.30pm) £17 (£15 conc), £13 Gala Friends

MORecaMBe This Olivier Award winning play celebrates the extraordinary life of Britain's best loved comic, from his beginnings as a child-performer to the glitz and glamour of international stardom. Starring the multi-talented Bob Golding as the great man, this is a moving, often hilarious tale about an affectionate lad with funny bones; the tall one with glasses; the man what brought us the sunshine. What do you think of it so far? “will bring sunshine into the lives of all who see it” daily Telegraph

OMid dJalili He’s back on tour with a splash, following a sell-out four week West-End residency and a sold-out season at the Edinburgh Festival. A firm favourite with his legendary performances, Omid has won a whole host of stand-up awards, as well as acting awards for his role in The Infidel, and is one of the funniest comedians around. "to carve yourself out a career as the thinking person's Iranian comedian in this political climate takes a fine brain and a masterful way with the audience. There is no question that Omid Djalili possesses both" The sunday Times

cOMinG sOOn and BOOkinG nOW… Sunday 4 May Monday 19 May Tuesday 20 May Sunday 18 May Saturday 24 May Tues 27 & Wed 28 May Wednesday 18 June Saturday 21 June Wednesday 9 July Fri 11 - Sun 20 July Wednesday 3 September Sunday 9 November

Fish English Touring Opera: The Magic Flute English Touring Opera: King Priam RSC Live: Henry IV Part I Halfway to Paradise - The Billy Fury Story GTSS: Bugsy Malone RSC Live: Henry IV Part II Durham Blues Festival Chapterhouse Theatre: Wuthering Heights Brass: Durham International Festival RSC Live: The Two Gentlemen of Verona Joan Armatrading (Solo)

31 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Sunday 11 May 8.00pm | £22

32 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Celebrating Great Film Our regular series of special movie events, where old favourites and mainstream blockbusters rub shoulders, in a celebration of masterful movie making.

Friday 14 February | £5 film only, £18.50 film and meal

an OFFiceR and a GenTleMan (15) We know it’s a bit corny, but it’s Valentine’s Day, so we’re allowed to. Here’s Richard Gere in his white uniform, trying to work his way through Navy Flight school. He only has his shouty sergeant major and his new girlfriend to deal with. It’ll lift you up where you belong, honest.

And if think a defrosted lasagne before you leave the house won’t cut the romantic mustard, we’ll sort everything for you, as we’ll lay on a fine romantic meal too (see page 34) 6.30pm 8.30pm

Valentine’s Day Dinner An Officer and a Gentleman (15), 1982, 124 mins

Sunday 23 February | £10

The daRk kniGhT TRilOGy Eventually, after our recent postponement, we are good to go with Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight Trilogy, presented back to back in one giant day of the best superhero series of all time.

Dark, imaginative and downright menacing, are you ready for Gotham’s warrior?

1.00pm 4.00pm 7.30pm

Batman Begins (12), 2005, 141 mins The Dark Knight (12), 2008, 152 mins Dark Knight Rises (12A), 2012, 165 mins

“superhero filmmaking on an unprecedented scale” empire Magazine Sunday 8 June | £5

laWRence OF aRaBia The word epic could have been coined for this movie. Huge in scale, David Lean’s film about the flamboyant British military figure during his World War I service in Arabia was a winner of seven Oscars. From the days when actors really were movie stars: Peter O’Toole, Alec Guinness and Omar Sharif all feature in this mighty movie, which looks simply stunning in this glorious new digital print.

1.00pm

Lawrence of Arabia (PG), 1962, 216 mins

cinema

Join our e-mailing list Sign up to our weekly e-listings flyer and get film times (or information on any of Gala’s activities) delivered straight to your inbox. Go to www.galadurham.co.uk/mailinglist

student day If it’s a Monday, and you can show a valid student card at the Box Office, tickets for all our films are just £5 each. Simple as that.

Pic: Muppets Most Wanted

For all enquiries, comments or suggestions regarding Gala’s film programme, please contact us on info@galadurham.co.uk.

33 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

gala

Gala houses a two-screen cinema screening a mix of blockbusters and independent films. We have state-of-the-art digital projection equipment, and can also screen in 3d. For screening times, please see our website or contact the Box Office. We also accept Orange Wednesdays 2 for 1 offer.

34 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

PRe-and POsT-shOW dininG Pre-Theatre Meal Gerry cross the Mersey Saturday 1 February

Pre-film Valentine’s Dinner an Officer & a Gentleman Friday 14 February

Post-show afternoon tea, £5.95 The Big Band experience Saturday 1 March

Pre-Theatre Meal The Bobby Thompson story Saturday 22 March

Post-show afternoon tea, £5.95 dMTc: a Tale of Two cities Saturday 12 April

Pre-Theatre Menu

Oven baked Chicken Supreme, filled with Cumberland sausage, wrapped in Parma Ham and served with a red wine sauce

Roasted capsicums stuffed with feta cheese roast vegetables, rice and barlotti beans Each with a selection of vegetables and potatoes Pear parkin pudding with custard OR Lemon tart with cream Coffee

Served at 6.00pm, £12.95

Pre-Film Valentine’s Dinner A Bellini cocktail on arrival

Cream of Love Apple and Roast Pepper soup OR Spinach and Brie stuffed mushrooms Pan fried Salmon supreme with a sweet chilli glaze, a Lime Crème Fraiche and noodles

Sautéed Chicken breast, filled with slow roasted tomato, basil and mozzarella, served with a tomato jus Roast vegetable and goats cheese strudel

Chocolate tart OR Tiramisu with Mascarpone & Brandy Served at 6.30pm, £15.50

BOX OFFICE 03000 266 600 OPENING HOURS

Monday-Saturday 10.00am8.30pm, Sunday 2.30pm-8.30pm.

Times may vary on public holidays.

BOOKING METHODS

Online Available 24 hours a day at: www.galadurham.co.uk in person at the Gala Theatre during the above times By phone 03000 266 600 Reservations are held for 3 days.

Group bookings for 10 or more may be held for longer and have flexible payment terms.

Ticket exchanges/Refunds Tickets may be exchanged for other performances (for a fee of £1 per ticket) up to 24 hours before a performance begins, at the management’s discretion. Unless an event is cancelled, all tickets are non-refundable. By purchasing our tickets you agree that tickets can not be re-sold for profit through any means. This will result in tickets being declared void. national Theatre Tokens are sold and redeemed at Gala. See www.theatretokens.com concessions are available for selected events - please check at time of booking. Only one concession applies.

Where a concession is claimed, proof may be required by Box Office upon ticket collection.

INFORMATION

latecomers will be seated at a suitable point in the performance, to minimise inconvenience to others.

Family Friendly Gala aspire to make all of our customers welcome, no matter how small and we really hope that our younger visitors become regulars at our theatre and cinema. In consideration of our audience and performers, we just ask that those under the age of 3 are only admitted to shows aimed at the very young. If in doubt, you can check with Box Office. For those under one year old, babes-in-arms tickets are available for selected shows. Find more information on our website about visiting Gala with your younger family members.

Mothers & Babies Our café staff are trained to be aware of the needs of breast-feeding mothers, and we also have baby changing facilities on all levels. access Gala has lifts to all levels and accessible toilets located throughout.

Our Main Auditorium and both cinemas have wheelchair spaces available. If using a wheelchair, please advise the Box Office when booking to ensure your seats/spaces are allocated accordingly. We request that our disabled patrons attend with an ablebodied companion whose ticket is free of charge. Guide Dogs are welcome in all parts of the theatre.

We operate the Sennheiser infrared amplification system in our Main Auditorium. Headsets for the hard of hearing are available at Box Office.

smoking is not permitted anywhere in Gala Travel There is parking on-site at Walkergate (DH1 1SQ), which is easily reached via the slip road under Milburngate Bridge or via Freeman Place. An evening tariff is available.

Prince Bishops car park (DH1 3UJ) is also nearby. A list of all bus routes can be found on our website.

The Gala Theatre & cinema, Millennium Place, durham, dh1 1Wa

info@galadurham.co.uk

03000 266 600

EVENT DIARY

JANUARY Sat 11 Sun 12 Fri 17 Fri 17 Sat 18 Sat 18 Tues 21 Wed 22 Thur 23 Fri 24 Sat 25 Sun 26 Wed 29 Thur 30

Murphy's Legacy 7.30pm The Comedy Store 7.30pm Gala Lunchtime Concert Series 1.00pm Funny Bones Comedy Club 7.45pm Bring the Beat Back 7.00pm Alex Horne 8.00pm DULOG: Guys & Dolls 7.30pm DULOG: Guys & Dolls 2.30pm & 7.30pm DULOG: Guys & Dolls 7.30pm DULOG: Guys & Dolls 7.30pm DULOG: Guys & Dolls 2.30pm & 7.30pm Stewart Lee 8.00pm Dr Feelgood 7.30pm NT Live: Coriolanus 7.00pm

FEBRUARY Sat 1 Sun 2 Tues 4 Wed 5 Fri 7 Sat 8 Mon 10 Tues 11 Tues 11 Wed 12 Fri 14 Sat 15 Sun 16 Tues 18 Fri 21 Sat 22 Sun 23 Thur 27 Fri 28

Gerry Cross The Mersey Punt & Dennis From Screen to Stage David O’Doherty Funny Bones Comedy Club Chris Ramsey Calendar Girls 51 Shades of Maggie Mr Drayton’s Record Player Festival of the Spoken Nerd G:Film - An Officer and a Gentleman M6 Theatre: Grandpa’s Railway Fascinating Aida Miles Jupp Gala Lunchtime Concert Series The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular Show G:Film - The Dark Knight Trilogy NT Live: The National Theatre’s War Horse GTSS: The Big Band Experience

7.30pm 8.00pm 7.30pm 8.00pm 7.45pm 8.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8.00pm 8.30pm 3.00pm 7.30pm 8.00pm 1.00pm 7.30pm 1.00pm 7.00pm 7.30pm

MARCH Sat 1 Sun 2 Mon 3 Tues 4 Thur 6 Thur 6 Fri 7

GTSS: The Big Band Experience 2.30pm & 7.30pm Orchestra North East 3.00pm NT Live: War Horse 9.30am & 2.00pm & 7.00pm Mr Drayton’s Record Player 7.30pm The King and I 7.30pm Mitch Benn 8.00pm The King and I 7.30pm

Sat 8 Sun 9 Mon 10 Tues 11 Wed 12 Thur 13 Fri 14 Sat 15 Fri 14 Tues 18 Wed 19 Fri 21 Fri 21 Fri 21 Sat 22 Tues 25 Wed 26 Sat 29 Sun 30

The King and I 2.30pm & 7.30pm The Comedy Store 7.30pm Birdsong 7.30pm Birdsong 7.30pm Birdsong 2.30pm & 7.30pm Birdsong 7.30pm Birdsong 7.30pm Birdsong 2.30pm & 7.30pm Funny Bones Comedy Club 7.45pm Les Miserables 7.30pm Les Miserables 7.30pm Gala Lunchtime Concert Series 1.00pm Chantel McGregor 7.30pm Tom Wrigglesworth 8.00pm The Bobby Thompson Story 7.30pm Mr Drayton’s Record Player 7.30pm Andy Kirkpatrick 7.30pm Batanai Marimba 7.30pm Kate Rusby 7.30pm

APRIL Wed Thur 3 Sat 5 Tues 8 Wed 9 Thur 10 Fri 11 Sat 12 Sun 13 Sun 14 Fri 18 Sat 19 Sun 20 Tues 22 Tues 22 Wed 23 Fri 25 Fri 25 Sat 26 Sun 27 Tues 29

Three Little Pigs 12.15pm, 2.00pm & 6.30pm The Reduced Shakespeare Company 7.30pm John Cooper Clarke 7.30pm A Tale of Two Cities - The Musical 7.15pm A Tale of Two Cities - The Musical 2.15pm & 7.15pm A Tale of Two Cities - The Musical 7.15pm A Tale of Two Cities - The Musical 2.15pm & 7.15pm A Tale of Two Cities - The Musical 7.15pm Hot Flush 7.30pm The Comedy Store 7.30pm Funny Bones Comedy Club 7.45pm The Doors - Live at The Bowl '68 7.30pm Russell Kane 8.00pm The Simon and Garfunkel Story 7.30pm Mr Drayton’s Record Player 7.30pm An Evening with Gervase Phinn 7.30pm Gala Lunchtime Concert Series 1.00pm Jerry Sadowitz 8.00pm Monty Don 7.30pm The Searchers 7.30pm Hits & Hairdos 7.00pm

BOX OFFICE 03000 266 600