Grove Theatre Dunstable Theatre Brochure - Spring Summer 2023

Photo: Crown Ballet - Swan Lake

WELCOME

WELCOME TO THE LATEST SEASON AT THE GROVE THEATRE!

Hello and welcome to our wonderful Summer Season.

We have a packed cinema and Encore Screening programme including Fleabag, The little Mermaid, Allelujah and many more. For our younger audiences we are delighted to be bringing you Milkshake! Live, Andy & The Odd Socks, The Sooty Show and Hasbro Stars Live! Gracing our stage will also be the hilarious Sarah Millican: Late Bloomer, Simon Brodkin: Screwed Up and Carl Hutchinson. With a plethora of musical delights for you including That’ll Be The Day, The

BARNSTORMERS COMEDY CLUB

Thu 29 Jun, Thu 28 Sept, Thu 26 Oct, Thu 23 Nov 8pm

Drifters and The Eagles. With all this variety we believe there is something for everyone.

Don’t forget to look out for the shows marked with our SUPER SAVER tag, simply enter the promo code SUPERSAVER at the check out to enjoy 20% off your ticket. Tickets are limited so be quick! Thank you for your continued support, as always we couldn’t do it without you.

Best wishes,

Rhea Yeung General Manager, Grove Theatre

Enjoy the best comedians on the London circuit including regulars from The Comedy Store and Jongleurs, in the upper foyer. An intimate evening of top class comedy with a different line up each time plus compere, with a fully licensed bar. See www.grovetheatre.co.uk for full lineup details.

£12* in advance, £15* on the door

AGES 18+

T&Csapply

THE MAKINGS OF A MURDERER

Thu 1 Jun 7.30pm

Investigating The UK’s Most Notorious Serial Killers. Hosted by the Detective Who Brought Serial Killer PETER TOBIN to Justice.

Join The Scottish Detective, David Swindle, for a chilling, thrilling, night at the theatre. True crime fans, and those with a curious mind, can explore the cases, the circumstances and the detective’s perspective on what really went on, the early warning signs and the clues behind The Makings of a Murderer!

What makes a serial killer tick? What are the tell-tale signs? What really goes on behind the scenes? Learn about the biggest British serial killers of all time. With more than 34 years as a senior detective, David shares his unique insight into the minds of the murderers, the famous cases that were never solved, and how the murderer got away with it... from someone on the inside.

£27.50*

ARRIVAL - THE HITS OF ABBA

Fri 2 Jun 7.30pm

50 years since ABBA’s formation in Stockholm, the group are back bigger than ever! What better way to celebrate the legacy of Scandinavian pop royalty than with ARRIVAL: The Hits of ABBA!

ARRIVAL’s multi award-winning show is returning for 2022 following sell out shows in over 30 different countries worldwide, bringing the magic of ABBA to stages across the UK.

The high-energy production features ABBA’s best loved hits including ‘Mamma Mia’, ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Super Trouper’, ‘Voulez Vous’, ‘Waterloo’ and of course material from the longawaited new album ‘Voyage.’

£26.50*, £24.50*, £22.50*, U16 £15*

POP DIVAS LIVE!

Sat 3 Jun 6pm

Take a break from your mobiles and iPads and enjoy all the best acts from the social media generation live and on stage - the way it should be!

The UK's number one girl band, Little Mix kick off the show, alongside Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa, JoJo Siwa and many more for 2 hours of non-stop hits.

D-DAY DARLINGS - THE KINGS CORONATION

Sun 4 Jun 2.30pm

Working with top music producers and songwriters, the Forces’ favourite sweethearts honour heroes with a selection of stunning original songs and reimagined arrangements of popular wartime songs, bringing the sound and sentiment of the era up to date.

£16*

With their patriotic energy and passion for celebrating veterans through their work in the UK and overseas as proud ambassadors of the Royal British Legion, along with the support of their biggest inspiration Dame Vera Lynn, the Darlings have earned a strong global appeal. £19*

CALLING PLANET EARTH

Sat 10 Jun 7.30pm

The show that defines a decade. A New Romantic Symphony that goes on a journey through one of the greatest musical Era’s of All TimeThe Electrifying 80’s.

Featuring songs from now legendary artists such as Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, The Human League, Ultravox, Tears For Fears, Depeche Mode, Omd, Japan, Abc, Soft Cell and many many more.

Performed by an incredible live band with awesome symphonic arrangements combined with stunning vocals and cast this is the must see show that simply defines a decade.

Sun 11 Jun 8pm

Yes, he's back on tour, and he will never stop again, because that's clearly what caused all this trouble. Instead, in his new show 'So, Where Were We?" Dara will hardly mention the last couple of years because, Jesus, who wants to hear about that? Instead, Dara will fire out the usual mix of stories, one-liners, audience messing and tripping over his words by talking too quickly because he's so giddy to be back in front of a crowd.

“Pure, undiluted comic genius”

– Evening Standard

“His set is a masterclass in intelligent, no-frills stand-up” – The Guardian

“If you want a comic who can hold an audience in the palm of his hand for two hours, here’s your man”

– The Times

£23.50*

£23*

DARA O BRIAIN - SO... WHERE WERE WE?

Thu 15 Jun 7.30pm

With an all-star cast to be announced, we present Menopause the Musical 2 - Cruising Through Menopause. In this hilarious sequel to our smash-hit Menopause the Musical®, we fast forward five years to catch up with the same four characters for tales of their lives, loves and losses as they set off on the high seas. Hot flushes, mood swings, memory lapses and weight gain Cruising Through Menopause is truly funny, heartfelt and reassuring look at the "joys" of menopause. When your life is a bumpy ride full of twists and turns, it's hard to find and keep true friends. But step on board and we'll take you on a trip of self-discovery, love and friendship all backed by a soundtrack of hysterical parodied hits!

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL 2 £30*

GREASE - RARE PRODUCTIONS

Thu 22 & Fri 23 Jun 7.30pm

Sat 24 Jun 2pm & 6.30pm

Experience the friendships, romances and adventures of a group of high school kids in the 1950s.

Welcome to the singing and dancing world of "Grease," the most successful movie musical of all time. A wholesome exchange student and a leather-clad Danny have a summer romance, but will it cross clique lines?

Please note this is a community performance by Rare Productions.

£18.50*,

U16 £16.50*, conc £17.50*

RUSH A JOYOUS JAMAICAN JOURNEY

Wed 28 Jun 7.30pm

Join us for the narrated musical as we tell the story of Reggae music and the Windrush Generation and hear how this music took the world by storm. Featuring ska, rock steady, calypso, gospel, lovers rock, dancehall and Reggae played live by the JA Reggae Band. Get ready to enjoy the music of Desmond Dekker, Jimmy Cliff, Bob Marley, Millie Small and many more. £24*

Fri 30 Jun 7.30pm

After 50 years in show business Roy Chubby Brown has proven himself time and time again! 30 totally different DVDs in 30 years, thousands of live shows worldwide, 4 books, countless original songs and millions of fans are testimony to the fact that he is... Britain's King Of Comedy.

If easily offended... please stay away!

ROY CHUBBY BROWN £25*

COPPELIA

Fri 7 Jul 7.30pm

Ballet Theatre UK proudly presents the iconic full-length ballet, Coppelia. A charming story featuring both preprofessional students of the company's affiliated school and renowned dancers of the company. This production features original choreography by Arthur Saint-Leon with new additional choreography by Christopher Moore.

Coppelia is a charming comedy of errors with a witty combination of antics and magic. Set in a doll maker's enchanting workshop, this whimsical tale of mistaken identity follows mischievous Swanilda and her foolhardy suitor Franz as they befriend the eccentric toymaker, Dr.Coppelius.

THE SUPER DUPER 70S SHOW

Sat 8 Jul 7.30pm

Calling All You Disco Hippie Chicks and Flare Lovin' Fellas!

Stage Fever Productions are SUPER DUPER excited to launch their jawdropping, sensational 70s show spectacular for you to feast your eyes on!

'The Super Duper 70s Theatre Show' is exploding with high-energy, iconic 70s hits from Disco, and Glam Rock, to Pop and Classic Rock!

Boogie on back to the sizzling 70s! This groovy show will space hop you back in time and tantalize your musical taste buds with its tremendously talented star cast, captivating costumes, and enthralling choreography! So Come On Feel The Noize, and prepare to be 'tappin' those Tiger Feet!

£22* £21* £20*

£23*

FORBIDDEN NIGHTS

Fri 14 Jul 7.30pm

Immerse yourself in this sexy, innovative and classy show this new age entertainment brings you world class circus acts with our signature Forbidden tease. Get ready for your ultimate ‘Forbidden’ night out with two hours of breath-taking action, seductive choreography and our comedian compere for your entertainment.

Abandon your inhibitions at the door as the talented cast of acrobats, live male vocalists, fire acts, aerial artists and world-renowned circus performers flip and spin across the stage in this high-octane show. This fun, sexy & entertaining evening with Forbidden Nights is guaranteed to be a night to remember.

WHITNEY QUEEN OF THE NIGHT

Fri 21 Jul 7.30pm

Direct from The West End, WhitneyQueen Of The Night is back for 2023 celebrating the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time with a sensational cast and stunning live band. This phenomenal production consistently delivers an outstanding concert that has been described as "a powerhouse performance that delivers on every level..."

Taking audiences on a magical rollercoaster ride through three decades of nostalgic hits that include: "I Wanna Dance With Somebody", "One Moment In Time", "I'm Every Woman",

"I Will Always Love You", "My Love Is Your Love", "So Emotional Baby", "Run to You", "Saving All My Love", "How Will I Know", "Million Dollar Bill", "The Greatest Love Of All", and many more...

£21.50*, VIP £24.50*

£28.50*

ROCK FOR HEROES

Sat 22 Jul 7.30pm

'Rock for Heroes - The UK's No.1 Touring Rock Show!' The laugh-aminute ROCKTACULAR experience is back! Featuring a superb 7-piece band, with world class musicians and phenomenal singers, the show breathes new life into the music of Guns 'N' Roses, Bon Jovi, Prince, Meat Loaf, Fleetwood Mac, Queen and more! You'd be 'Livin' on a Prayer' if you miss it! A show for all the family and a must see for any rock fan!

Experience an evening that will awaken nostalgia, have you laughing till your sides hurt, dancing in the aisles and ROCKIN' the night away! So, Jump at your chance to get your tickets today!

Let 'Rock For Heroes' remind you of where you were that Summer of 69.

MILKSHAKE! LIVE 2023

Fri 28 Jul 12pm, 3.30pm

Milkshake! Monkey is back and can't wait to put on a spectacular NEW Show for you all, joined by some of his favourite Milkshake! friends plus two Milkshake Presenters creating the most dazzling show you have ever seen!

Join Paddington, Daisy & Ollie, Milo, Noddy, Pip and Posy, Blue's Clues & You! and of course Milkshake! Monkey for an unforgettable family time at Milkshake Monkey's Musical!

Learn the amazing songs and dances with your favourite Milkshake! friends and watch as the music, the lights, the costumes and the stage brings Milkshake! to life. With great Milkshake friends, anything is possible.

£16.50*, U16 £15.50*, Family x 4 £60*

GARY DELANY

Sat 29 Jul 7.30pm

Get ready to dive into a rabbit hole of the best jokes in the world - star of Live at the Apollo and sell-out sensation Gary Delaney is back!

One of the most sought after joke writers in the country and longstanding Mock the Week special guest, Gary has been through the laughing glass and he's ready to bring you a brand new show with hit after hit of the kind of one-liners only a master could craft. If you're hunting for snark, Gary's got it covered!

HASBRO STARS LIVE

Sun 6 Aug 12.30pm & 3.30pm

The stage is set for the greatest talent show ever! For the first time together, we will see amazing musical performances from your favourite TV Stars, LIVE on stage!

The PJ Masks, fresh from a new adventure, will show the kids that they can be a hero too! Ben and Holly join in as well, singing some of their favourite songs.

We also have a very special performance from My Little Pony, that will get every pony's hooves stomping. Last, but by no means least, are the stupendous Mr Potato Head and Mrs Potato Head, who are super excited to show off their spudtastic impersonations of famous stars! £17*

THE IRELAND SHOW

Fri 18 Aug 7.30pm

Now seen by a live audience of over 250,00 to nightly standing ovations and rave reviews, join us for 'Ireland The Show'! Featuring an all-star Irish cast of the Emerald Isle's most talented award winning performers,accompanied by the fabulous Keltic Storm Band and world champion Gael Force Irish dancers from Kerry, Mayo and Clare. This unmissable production will take you on a journey through the decades of a globally loved culture. The show, which has received high acclaim, will feature all the well-known ballads and foot stamping singalongs from the legendary 'Pogue's, Furey's, Dubliners, Makem and Clancy", to name but a small few. Add to that a string of hilarious stories and jokes from our awardwinning Tyrone comedian and topped off with energetic reels and jigs from our fiddling Derry maestro and the supremely talented vocals of our Keltic voice from Donegal! If it's all things Irish you like, then this is certainly the show for you. Guaranteed to take you to Ireland and back in one night!

£25*

HARRY REDKNAPP

Thu 7 Sept 7.30pm

I’m a Celebrity WINNER... HARRY REDKNAPP comes back to town!

Harry is genuinely one of the funniest celebrity and football storytellers in the country. Come and see him LIVE!

This will be a fun filled event with tales of the jungle and of a football manager’s life. Included will be Audience Q&A.

VIP Tickets include a photo taken with Harry before the show, plus a signed photo. Meet and Greet will take place between 6.30pm and 7.15pm.

£37.50*, VIP £89.50*

TOTALLY TINA

Fri 8 Sept 7.30pm

The Award-winning Tina Turner Spectacular. Come shake a tail feather with the UK's supreme Tina - Justine Riddoch - and her talented cast. This breathtaking recreation of a live Tina Turner concert celebrates the golden anniversary of the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll's signature tune Proud Mary. Tina's no-holds-barred take of the song established a reputation for fearsome live performances - and those never-ending legs! Early hits, including River Deep - Mountain High and Nutbush City Limits, were just a taste of what was to come. We Don't Need Another Hero, Simply the Best, What's Love Got to Do With It, I Don't Wanna Lose You and When the Heartache is Over propelled Tina to stadium concert stardom. Supported by her dazzling dancing girls in sequins, feathers and diamonds, Justine recreates those famed live performances. The SUPREME Tina (National Tribute Awards), she's got the looks, she's got the moves, but most of all, she's got THE voice.

£25*

Sat 9 Sept 7.30pm

CARL HUTCHINSON Hutchinson is back with a brand new show for 2023. After a mammoth 87 date run in 2022, Carl capitalised and got right to work to produce his best show yet. If you've seen the Geordie in action before you know exactly what type of amazing night you're in for. If you haven't seen Carl, prepare to be dazzled by the UK comedy scene's best kept secret.

"Animated delivery of universally identifiable material all told with an easy, engaging charm." Chortle

"Unexpected punchlines and occasional slapstick. A very clever mind at work here." - Fringe Review

£15*

THE WONDER OF STEVIE

Tue 12 Sept 7.30pm

The ultimate celebration of the genius of Stevie Wonder.

Award-winning vocalist Noel McCalla and his world-class live band present a diverse catalogue of back-to-back hits including Superstition, Signed, Sealed, Delivered, Isn’t She Lovely, I Wish, Sir Duke, Master Blaster and many more.

Featuring musicians who’ve previously performed with music legends Bill Withers, Amy Winehouse, Jools Holland, The Bee Gees, Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Paul McCartney, Martha Reeves, Nile Rodgers, Jamiroquai and Alfie Boe.

‘Breathtaking’ - Sunday Times

‘Spine-tingling’ - The Guardian

"A dazzling homage to one of the great masters of 20th & 21st century music"

- Jools Holland

£27*

THAT’LL BE THE DAY

Thu 14 Sept 7.30pm

That’ll Be The Day is back on the road with another incredible show packed full of world class performances from Trevor and the highly talented ensemble cast.

Let the world’s leading Rock ‘n’ Roll show take you on a journey through the years, as together you celebrate the most iconic moments in Comedy, Rock ‘n’ Roll and Pop Culture from the 50s right the way through to the 80s.

Combining uproarious comedy sketches and impersonations with breathtaking vocals and dazzling musicianship, That’ll Be The Day truly is in a league of its own. It’s no wonder this show has been touring solidly for over 35 years and it just gets better and better! Join Trevor and the stellar cast for the ultimate feel-good experience that will have you singing and dancing, and leave you wanting just a little bit more!

£27*

THE HISTORY OF ROCK

Fri 15 Sept 7.30pm

THE HISTORY OF ROCK is a celebration of ROCK music through the decades. A jaw dropping night transporting you through the golden ages of ROCK! Featuring the music of artists such as Led Zeppelin, Cream, Guns n Roses, AC/DC, Queen and many more. Rediscover the seeds of ROCK & ROLL in the 1950s, the birth of ROCK in the 60s, right through to the CLASSIC ROCK of the 70s and 80s. A must see for any fan of ROCK! Experience this iconic music brought back to life by an exceptional live band consisting of some of the finest musicians and performers from around the world, original visual footage of the featured bands and artists, as well as incredible concert staging and lighting.

Sat 16 Sept 7.30pm

He's been a major star for four decades. Paul Young broke into the big time 40 years ago when No Parlez went to number one and spawned iconic hits like Wherever I Lay My Hat (That's My Home). More success followed with the number one album The Secret Of Association and the worldwide hit Everytime You Go Away, not forgetting an appearance at Live Aid and more. Paul sustained that success - while having fun in his tex-mex band, Los Pacaminos. Now, on the 40th anniversary of No Parlez, he's releasing a remarkable new record and publishing his extraordinary memoir; both called Behind The Lens.

He's touring the UK, too, where he'll meet fans, sing hits and tell stories about his incredible career. It's time to revel in the classic hits and learn the stories behind them as Paul steps out from Behind The Lens.

PAUL YOUNG

£30*, VIP £45*, Premium £80*

PRINCE - THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE 1999

Sun 17 Sept 7.30pm

The genius, innovation and grandeur of the one and only Prince - this immersive stage show experience pays tribute and reverence to one of the greatest musical pioneers of our time. Dedicated live performances from talented multi-instrumentalist Dale Ray on vocals, guitar and piano, are a fitting commemoration in this world-class production that evokes the wondrous and quixotic realm of Prince - his music, his art, his vision. Expect a sensory spectacular created with a world-class 8-piece band, bespoke costuming and production, and a raft of iconic songs – Purple Rain, When Doves Cry, Kiss, 1999, Little Red Corvette, Raspberry Beret, Diamonds and Pearls, Cream, The Most Beautiful Girl in the World, Let’s Go Crazy!

£27*

THE STARS FROM THE COMMITMENTS

Wed 20 Sept 7.30pm

We're thrilled to present the fantastic Stars From The Commitments, a band who truly are Dublin's Kings of Soul as they bring you The Great Dublin Soul Revival Tour!

The show consists of 2 hours of sizzling soul music and drives the audience to dance in the aisles and scream for more as they perform all the hits from the film including Mustang Sally, In The Midnight Hour, Chain Of Fools, Treat Her Right, Take Me To The River, Try A Little Tenderness and many more. This outstanding live stage show features original Commitments cast members and musicians from the Bafta award winning and Golden Globe and Oscar® nominated smash hit Sir Alan Parker film which spawned several multimillion selling soundtrack albums, selling in the region of 14,000,000 copies and receiving Gold and Platinum discs.

£28.50*

SIMON BRODKIN - SCREWED UP

Fri 22 Sept 8pm

Fresh from his sold-out, criticallyacclaimed Edinburgh Fringe run and becoming the most viewed British comedian of all time on TikTok, worldfamous prankster and Lee Nelson creator Simon Brodkin is back with an outrageous new stand-up show.

In 'Screwed Up' Simon rips into celebrity culture, social media, the police, Putin, Prince Andrew and Jesus. Nothing is off limits in this hilarious show, including his own mental health, his family, his five arrests and how he once found himself at an underground sex party.

ANDY AND THE ODD SOCKS

Sat 23 Sept 12pm

What a rollercoaster ride it's been for Andy and the Odd Socks. It seems like only yesterday that the idea for the band came to Andy Day in a dream, but in the short time since, they've played Glastonbury and gone way beyond Andy's wildest dreams. Andy and the band are proof that the great thing about life is that Odd Socks can make the greatest stars. So what's the odd story behind the Odd Socks? Well, he may be one of the most recognisable faces of kids TV, with hugely popular CBeebies shows like Andy's Wild Adventures and Andy's Safari Adventures making him a household name, but music has always been Andy Day's first passion. He grew up on classic artists like Ray Charles, Queen and Elton John, before embracing rock gods like Dave Grohl. Then one day, Andy had a vivid dream about starting a band in his mum's hometown of Barking that would take over the world, a dream so real that when he woke up, he knew he had to make that dream come true.

£22.50*

£25*, £20*, £17.50*

"No show has made me laugh more"

- The Times

THE DRIFTERS

Sun 24 Sept 7.30pm

The Drifters are back on tour in the UK performing all their classic hits including 'Saturday Night at the Movies', 'You're More Than A Number,' 'Come on Over to My Place', 'Under the Boardwalk', and more! The legendary group have been inducted into the Rock & Roll of Fame, performed for the President of the United States and listed among the Greatest Artists of All Time by Rolling Stone magazine. Under the guidance of Tina Treadwell (daughter of the group's original founders, George & Faye Treadwell)

The Drifters have enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in recent years with multiple successful UK tours including headline shows in major arenas and, most notably, the world famous Royal Albert Hall in London for the ever first time in the group's glittering career.

"I am thrilled with the success of our recent UK tours and we invite you all to join us in continuing to celebrate this incredible and everlasting story of The Drifters." Said Tina, speaking about the tour.

£30*

Tue 26 Sept 7.30pm

Philomena Begley is widely known as the Queen of Irish Country is a name that needs very little introduction and is synonymous throughout Ireland and beyond , she has been at the forefront of Irish Country Music now for 60 years and during this time she has had a glittering career that has seen her achieve countless accolades and scoring dozens of No.1 hit songs.

£26*

PHILOMENA BEGLEY IN CONCERT

BACK TO BACHARACH

Wed 27 Sept 7.30pm

Featuring breath-taking performances from our West End cast and the amazing musicianship of The Magic Moments Orchestra, Back to Bacharach celebrates the timeless masterpieces of Burt Bacharach “The Hitmaker” behind one of the greatest American songbooks of the 20th Century. Burt Bacharach who together with Hal David, penned some of the most memorable and iconic hits that stand the test of time. Join us for an evening that celebrates all of his greatest hits, throughout his incredible lifetime, including; Alfie, What The World Needs Now, The Look Of Love, I Say A Little Prayer, Close To You, Walk On By, What's New Pussycat, Always Something

There To Remind Me, Magic Moments, Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head and many, many more.

£25*

LIFE OF REILLY

Sat 30 Sept 7.30pm

Reilly’s mum always knew there was something different about her son, but she hoped he would grow out of it to become less demanding and more interactive with other kids. Her daughter felt angry, her husband felt rejected and she just felt exhausted.

Then came the bombshell: Reilly was diagnosed with autism. Everyone tried to pull together but when Grandma moved in to “help out” things took a decided downward turn!!!

This is a heart-warming, heart-breaking and hilarious tale of a family, trying to negotiate their way through teenage tantrums, autism, and Grandma.

• Direct from the Edinburgh Festival

• Five Star Review – Edinburgh Fringe

• Culture Vulture – Beautifully written and full of touching moments – Edinburgh Fringe

£23*

FRANCIS

Sun 1 Oct 7.30pm

Status Quo legend Francis Rossi is taking up his acoustic guitar to bring you a selection of well-known hits and some previously not-performedlive-before tunes.

It'll be a unique evening in which Francis will reprise fan favourites from a remarkable 50+year career. Expect original-style, acoustic versions of Quo classics, threaded together with chat in this music based evening.

VIP packages are available for those wishing to meet Francis before the show.

£30*, VIP £45*, Premium £80*

Thu 5 Oct 7.30pm

T-REXTASY T.Rextasy have now been performing around the world for over 20 years, a career that ironically out lives Marc’s very own T.Rex.

The band is now accepted as the world’s only official live tribute band dedicated to Marc Bolan & T.Rex, and the only band endorsed and approved by Marc Bolan’s family, estate, original ex-members of T.Rex, and Bolan’s catalogue management.

The band has been described by many as ‘beyond the boundaries of tribute’.

£28.50*

ROSSI - TUNES & CHAT

THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC

Fri 6 Oct 7.30pm

Calling all Dancing Queens, this is your night to say, Thank you for the Music!

This international smash-hit tribute show brings all ABBA's number one hits to the stage in a production like no other. The hugely popular show, now in its 20th year, with a brandnew show for 2022 combines the unmistakable harmonies, colourful costumes, and dazzling performances by our all-star cast.

Join us for the party of the year as we bring you all the hits, including Waterloo, Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia, and many many more!

Thank you for the Music! For without a song or a dance what are we.

JUST MY IMAGINATION

Sat 7 Oct 7.30pm

Fifty years ago, The Temptations were sitting proudly atop of the American charts with the single Papa Was a Rollin' Stone.

The song was a notable change in direction for both The Temptations and the group's record label Motown Records. The tune featured more instrumental content than was the norm for a Motown song - and its lyrical content was a departure from those that had gone before, dealing with the social issues of the time.

Brand-new stage show Just My Imagination is coming to town and it brings all of The Temptations' top 20 songs - including Get Ready, My Girl, Just My Imagination and Papa Was a Rollin' Stone - to the stage.

Show producer Mark Halliday says that the song is the highlight of a production that has embarked on a UK tour that covers the whole of England, Scotland and Wales.

£28*, conc £26*

£26*, conc £24*

STRANGER SINGS

Sun 8 - Mon 9 Oct 7.30pm

Tune in, children of the 80s! Join us in the upside-down for this awardwinning, smash hit new parody musical; Stranger Sings!

Straight from off-Broadway, to a UK premiere 3-month sell-out run in London, we’re now thrilled to announce the UK nationwide Theatre Tour of Stranger Sings! This awardwinning sci-fi spoof is a wild, irreverent twist on the hit Netflix series - in all its hair-raising, blockbuster glory.

Take a trip with your favourite gang on a night of indulgent pop culture references, heavy synth, poor parenting, dancing demogorgons and maybe - just maybe - you might find justice for Barb along the way.

SOUNDS OF THE RAT PACK ERA

Tue 10 Oct 7.30pm

Let us take you back to the heady days of the Rat Pack Era with songs made famous by Frank, Sammy and Dean as well as swinging it up to date with numbers you will know from Michael Bublé, Robbie Williams and Harry Connick Junior. Our vocalists will take you on a journey through time that Mr Bojangles, Leroy Brown and a certain gentleman by the name of Mack would be proud of. Backed by the acclaimed Moonlight Serenade Orchestra UK, from Chicago to New York New York these guys will certainly do it their way.

Sounds of the Rat Pack Era and Beyond is not a look-a-like, sound-a-like tribute show, instead we showcase the wonderful numbers of that time along with performing arrangements by more recent singers that are keeping the genre alive and introducing the next generation of fans to some of the most iconic music of the 20th century.

£38*, £34*, £30*

£23.50*

THE STORY OF GUITAR HEROES

Thu 12 Oct 7.30pm

Prepare to be blown away by the most amazing guitar riffs of the last 50 years as the epic Story of Guitar Heroes returns!

Featuring an anthology of the most iconic guitar hits from Jimmy Page, Hank Marvin, Chuck Berry, Jimi Hendrix, Brian May, Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, Van Halen, Slash and many more.

This live guitar fest is renowned for its versatile world-class musicianship, recreating the unique sounds of each guitar legend with incredible accuracy, utilising no less than 30 different authentic guitars.

‘Every lick is expertly played by highly experienced, gifted musicians’ – Time Out

THE SENSATIONAL 60S EXPERIENCE

Fri 13 Oct 7.30pm

With a brand-new production for 2023. Join us for the musical phenomenon the sixties at 60 with this festival of nostalgia. The show with the definite feelgood factor will transport you back to that magical decade that was the 1960's.

Whether you come to relive your childhood memories or you just simply want to see what your parents have been raving about for all these years this is the show to see. These legends of the 60's will deliver to you a night never to be forgotten.

Starring Dozy Beaky Mick & Tich, The Trems, The Fortunes, The Swinging Blue Jeans and Vanity Fare.

£26*

£29*, friends £27.50

EMERALD STORM

Sun 15 Oct 7.30pm

Slamdunk Entertainment ltd & Adam Garcia presents the new Irish dance sensation Emerald Storm.

Direct from the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations at Windsor Castle ‘as Seen on ITV’.

Feel the immense power and thunderous rhythms as Irish dance and modern tap combine to soar into the 21st century. Emerald storm is a tale of love, rivalry and turmoil.

Co-written and co-choreographed by world renowned tap dancer and Hollywood actor, Adam Garcia.

This is a dance show not to be missed, this is Irish dance reborn!

THINK FLOYD

Sun 22 Oct 7.30pm

This extraordinary band, dubbed the Definitive Pink Floyd Experience, are renowned for their stunning celebration of the music of one of the world’s greatest musical phenomenon.

Pink Floyd’s Nick Mason describes the band as “Brilliant! - They are really good.” In an interview on LBC the legendary drummer commended Think Floyd and rather generously called them “better than we are”.

It’s no wonder Think Floyd are widely regarded as the UK’s number one Pink Floyd tribute show.

£29.50*

£28.50*

HAUNTING

Thu 26 Oct 7.30pm

In an ancient, crumbling mansion, two men stumble across a dark and terrifying secret that will change their lives forever.

When a book dealer, David Filde, is employed by Lord Gray to catalogue the estate’s impressive library, he finds an incredible array of rare books. However, as a series of strange and unexplained events conspire to keep Filde from his work, he realises that if he is to convince his sceptical employer that the mysterious phenomena he is experiencing are real, they must journey together to the very edge of terror to discover the source of the terrifying visitations.

RADIO GAGA

Fri 27 Oct 7.30pm

Be part of a night like no other as we bring you the concert you've been dreaming of! The ultimate celebration of one the biggest bands to have ever graced the stage - Queen.

Break free with us and shake all over like a jellyfish as Radio GaGa recreates two magical hours live on stage, celebrating the magic, fun & showmanship of the bands touring days. Playing all your favourite hits including, Don't Stop me now, I Want to Break Free, Somebody to Love, We Will Rock You and of course Bohemian Rhapsody.

£20*, conc £18*, friends £17*

£28*, conc £26*

THE SOOTY SHOW

Sat 28 Oct 2.30pm

Celebrating 75 amazing years in show business, Sooty, Sweep and Soo are planning a very special birthday party and you're all invited. However, in true Sooty style nothing goes to plan!

The party preparations are well underway: Sooty and Sweep are busy baking a cake (what could go wrong?), Soo's trying to find the perfect party dress, and Sweep's practising his dance moves and needs some boys and girls to join in with musical statues! Sooty is planning his biggest magic trick yet, but will Richard survive when he is placed in the box of doom?

LEGENDS OF AMERICAN COUNTRY

Sun 29 Oct 7.30pm

Now seen by over 350,000 fans live and watched by millions on TV Europe's No.1 multi award winning show " The Legends of American Country "returns for another fantastic night of toe tapping Country nostalgia.

The 2023 tour will showcase highly acclaimed tributes to Dolly Parton , Johnny Cash , Don Williams , Patsy Cline and Kenny Rogers and new tributes to icons Hank Williams , Charley Pride , Glen Campbell, Tammy Wynette , John Denver and Jim Reeves with countless other well-known singalong hit songs in this must see musical extravaganza.

£21* U16 £18.50*

£25*

DO YOU BELIEVE IN GHOSTS?

Thu 2 Nov 7.30pm

An experiential ghost story, unlike anything you have ever experienced before. Welcome to a haunting night at the theatre. Are you feeling brave? If you are, join us, and we tell you all the secrets of what goes on when the theatre goes dark. When the only thing to guide you is the Ghost Light. To keep mischievous spirits away - or maybe just to light the way for the ghosts who call it their home. Follow the rules: keep your hands inside the car (so to speak) and you will be safe, as we tell the tales that every theatre has to tell.

SWEET CAROLINE

Fri 3 Nov 7.30pm

It's time for that night out you have been dreaming of! Starring Gary Ryan, as seen on Stars in Their Eyes! The show will take you back to where it began. A musical journey featuring 50 years of the greatest songs ever written.

Celebrate the music that has charmed six generations as we bring you all things Diamond with a sensational live show. Enjoy all the hits Forever In Blue Jeans, America, Love On The Rocks, Song Sung Blue, Hello Again, Cracklin' Rosie, I Am. . . I Said, Beautiful Noise and, of course, Sweet Caroline.

£32*, conc £28*

£28.50*

FAIRYTALE OF NEW YORK

Sun 5 Nov 7.30pm

Direct from the West End and after two sell out tours, the ultimate feel good Irish-inspired Christmas show is back with an even bigger production for 2023. From the producers of Seven Drunken Nights-The Story of The Dubliners and featuring an international cast of singers, musicians and dancers Fairytale of New York brings you all of your favorite Christmas songs including Driving home for Christmas, White Christmas, Oh Holy Night, Winter’s Tale, Silent Night and of course The Fairytale of New York.

£26.50*

THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN

Thu 9 Nov 7.30pm

Seen by over a million people, now in its 18th year! It’s no surprise that this show is one of the biggest success stories in British theatre history. Get ready for the biggest Motown party of the year. You will be going loco down in Acapulco as we take you back down memory lane with all the Motown classics from artists such as, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson, and many, many more.

£31*

THE ILLEGAL EAGLES

Fri 10 Nov 7.30pm

Celebrating over 50 years since the formation of the legendary West Coast Country Rock band The Eagles in 1971, The Illegal Eagles make a welcome return to Dunstable with a brand new production, promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail and incredible showmanship. This critically acclaimed show features the very best from the Eagles’ catalogue of classics including ’Hotel California’, ‘Desperado’, ‘Take It Easy’, ‘New Kid In Town’, ‘Life In The Fast Lane’ and many more…

£32.50*, conc £30.50*

THAT'LL BE THE DAY

Sat 11 Nov 7.30pm

That’ll Be The Day is back with another timeless Rock ‘n’ Roll Christmas Show, so get ready to kick off your festive season in the best possible way. Completely refreshed year after year, the show takes you on a seasonal, nostalgic sleigh ride through the golden age of Rock ‘n’ Roll and Pop for an experience like no other.

CIRQUE - THE GREATEST SHOW

Sun 12 Nov 2pm, 6.30pm

Escape the ordinary and enter the world of the extraordinary! It’s time to step into the light. Escape with us for a night like no other, where we take you into a world where musical theatre meets jaw-dropping circus spectacular. We bring the world into colour as showstoppers from everyone’s favourite West End and Broadway hits combine with breath-taking, amazing aerialists, incredible contortionists, and thrilling feats of agility and flair. The brand-new show everyone is talking about for 2023.

DR

COOPER CLARKE

Fri 17 Nov 7.30pm

John Cooper Clarke shot to prominence in the 1970s as the original 'people's poet'.

His unique poetry was put to music by producer Martin Hannett and a band of Mancunians The Invisible Girls.Seminal tracks such as Beasley St and Evidently Chickentown featured on the album Snap Crackle and Bop, one of 4 hit 70/80s album releases. JCC became one of the most prolific artists of the Punk years.

£35*, friends £33, conc £33, U12 £28*, family x £100*

£27.50*

JOHN

£32.50*, conc £28*

OH WHAT A NIGHT

Sat 18 Nov 7.30pm

OH WHAT A NIGHT! takes you back in time on a musical journey through the incredible career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Valli's unmistakable voice dominated the airwaves for more than two decades with classics such as Sherry, Let's Hang On, Big Girls Don't Cry, Can't Take My Eyes Off You, My Eyes Adored You, December 63 (Oh What A Night), Bye Bye Baby, Who Loves You and many, many more. Selling over 100 million records worldwide, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons secured their place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1990.

THE MAGNETS - 80S REWIND

Sun 19 Nov 7.30pm

The Magnets are the UKs No.1 A Cappella super-group featuring the hottest vocal and beatboxing talent on the international a cappella scene and London's West End. The band have revolutionised British a cappella by combining virtuosic beatboxing with glorious harmonies, and have gone on to become a must see act on the international music scene, playing festivals and theatres worldwide. Their richly varied career has seen them sign a major record deal with EMI and release four albums.

A CHRISMAS SECRET

SOLVE-ALONG-A MURDER SHE WROTE

Sun 19 Nov 8pm

Cult hit event Solve-Along-A-Murder-She-Wrote comes to Dunstable with an interactive screening of the classic Murder, She Wrote episode "A Christmas Secret". Watch as Cabot Cove gets caught up in murder and mayhem over the festive season, in a murder mystery only JB Fletcher (or you!) can solve! Solve-Along-AMurder-She-Wrote is a unique and hilarious night featuring games, prizes and audience participation, with special permission from NBC Universal Television.

UPPER FOYER

£24*, £22*

£18.50*, conc £17.50*

£24.50* £22.50*

CROWN BALLET - SWAN LAKE

Tue 21 Nov 7.30pm

Swan Lake - The greatest of all romantic ballets Music by Pyotr I. Tchaikovsky. After last year's successful premier, Crown Ballet returns this year to the UK to enchant you with the delightful production of Swan Lake. Crown Ballet presents to you the most famous Ballet of all time. Swan Lake is one of Tchaikovsky's best works, featuring some of ballet's most memorable music and breath-taking dance. Swan Lake is a tale of two young women, Odette and Odilie, who resembles each other so strikingly one can easily be mistaken for the other.

QUEENZ

Wed 22 Nov 7.30pm

Direct from their smash-hit run in London’s West End and countless 5-star reviews at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, QUEENZ has been blowing the minds of audiences up and down the country with their trailblazing, LIVE VOCAL, drag extravaganza! With the moves of Britney and voices like Whitney, these dragtastic divas are the real deal and will have you feeling fierce and fabulous before you know it! Serving up a set list of remixed and reimagined pop anthems, including, ‘Queen Of The Night, Born This Way, Raining Men, I Will Survive and so much more!

£25*

CHRISTMAS MEMORIES

Fri 24 Nov 2pm

Neil Sands and his wonderful cast are back with the new 2023 production of their hit show, a spectacular spirit lifting, heartwarming, afternoon of festive nostalgia. Join them for a dazzling sleigh ride of yuletide memories, filled with over 60 of your all-time favourite Christmas songs and Carols that will have you singing along from start to finish and bringing back many wonderful memories of Christmases past.

£14*

£27 * conc £25*

MOVIES

AT THE GROVE THEATRE

WHAT'S ON - SPRING SUMMER 2023

BEST OF ENEMIES

Thu 18 May 7pm

COMEDY WORKSHOP

Sat 8 July 10am

COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS

Thu 24 Aug 2pm

David Harewood (Homeland) and Zachary Quinto (Star Trek) play feuding political rivals in James Graham’s (Sherwood) multiple awardwinning new drama.

In 1968 America, as two men fight to become the next president, all eyes are on the battle between two others: the cunningly conservative William F. Buckley Jr., and the unruly liberal Gore Vidal.

£15*, conc £13*

The workshops are designed in such a way as to increase the participant's knowledge and understanding of writing and performing stand-up comedy. They will learn about and understand methods and techniques that will help them to generate selfauthored comedy material; combined with the ability to deliver the material in the form of a stand-up comedy performance.

They are presented by Kevin Precious who is a former teacher turned stand-up comedian.

£11*

Since 2005, the Comedy Club 4 Kids has been getting the best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit to do their thing for an audience of children and their families… but without the rude bits! It's just like a normal comedy club, but it's on in the day, kids are allowed in, and thus there is a higher than usual chance of heckles like "why is that your face!?" "A highlight for children... giving them a taste of some of the biggest names in comedy with the fun, rowdy feel of a real comedy club." The Guardian

£8.50*, conc £6.50*

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

Best of Enemies by James Graham, directed by Jeremy Herrin, inspired by the documentary by Morgan Neville and Robert Gordon.

THE PANTALOONS - JANE AUSTEN'S EMMA

Wed 17 May 7.30pm £13*, conc £11*

Join the critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company for a riotous Regency rom-com! Meet misguided matchmaker Emma as she tries to play Cupid in this hilarious yet faithful new adaptation of Jane Austen’s satirical story.

KEVIN PRECIOUS: THE RELUCTANT TEACHER

Sat 8 July 8pm £10* Edinburgh Preview Double Bill

Kevin Precious used to be a teacher. He enjoyed the teaching part; it was the stuff that goes with it that was a drag. So he left. A funny overview of the pitfalls and pratfalls that go with his former profession; with a bit of pedagogical stuff (ooh-er) thrown in for good measure.

JOE WELLS: KING OF THE

AUTISTICS

Rise up against your neurotypical overlords! 'One of my favourite comics' (Frankie Boyle). 'Some of the most surprising and thought-provoking material coming from any comedian' (Guardian). Over 2.5m views online for his video 'Having a non-autistic brother'. As seen on BBC2, BBC3, C4 and Dave. A standup show about representation, role models and the fight for autistic rights.

CILLA & THE SWINGING 60S

Sat 15 July 7.30pm £15*, conc £14*

Cilla & The Swinging 60s is a highly entertaining show, stylishly celebrating the life and music of the legendary Cilla Black as well as a handpicked selection of her well-known contemporaries, including Dusty Springfield, Lulu, Petula Clark, The Beatles and many more.

THE PANTALOONS - COMEDY OF ERRORS

Thu 7 Sept 7.30pm £13*, conc £11*

Cartoonish capers in Shakespeare’s funniest farce! Two sets of shipwrecked twins – who lost their doubles years ago – unknowingly end up in the same place at the same time. Chaos ensues; but will the searching siblings find each other in the end?

THE BUBBLE SHOW

Wed 25 Oct 2pm £8.50*, conc £6.50*

Join Mr. Bubbles with his extraordinary soap bubbles in all shapes and sizes! The Bubble Show is a unique blend of magic, storytelling, science and bubble art! Enjoy bouncy bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, smoke bubbles, square bubbles, giant bubbles, and even fire bubbles!

BOOKING INFORMATION

HOW TO BOOK

Online: www.grovetheatre.co.uk

In Person: On performance days: 12pm – 3pm & 5pm – 7.45pm Monday – Saturday. On non-performance days 12pm – 3pm. Sundays & Bank Holidays only from 2 hours before the performance starts.

By Phone: 01582 60 20 80 (opt2) during opening times.

By Post: Write to Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU5 4GP

Transaction Fee: A £1 transaction fee will be added per ticket, applied to all bookings; by phone, online or in person. Friends of the Grove Theatre and groups of 10+ pay no transaction fees. An additional postal charge of £1.25 is added per transaction.

Reservations: Ticket reservations must be paid for within four working days.

DATA PROTECTION

Your contact details will be held in order to contact you in the case of a performance being cancelled. With your permission we will also contact you with information about future events. To be removed from our mailing list, please contact the Box Office, or to view our full privacy policy, visit our website.

DISCOUNTS

All discounts apply to price bands A (1 or 2 price house) and B (3 price house) only. Discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Discounts vary per event; please see individual show information for details.

c Under 16s, over 64s, students in full-time education, job seekers and disabled patrons, plus discount available for one companion if assistance is required (excluding Friday & Saturday evenings).

W Wheelchair users, plus one companion if assistance is required.

G Group discounts stated where applicable.

s School group discounts stated where applicable.

f Friends of the Grove Theatre.

Family of 2 adults and 2 children (under 16).

ACCESS INFORMATION

Grove Theatre has level access into the building and all levelsare accessible via a lift. There are wheelchair accessible seats in both the Stalls and Circle. To book a wheelchair accessible seat, please contact the

Box Office. These seats are not suitable for mobility scooters. If you have an exceptionally large and/or specialist wheelchair, please contact the Box Office for advice on the best seating areas available. Not all of our seating will be suitable for all access needs, if you have trouble with steps, require wheelchair access or need assistance, please contact our Box Office prior to your visit.

Disabled parking spaces are available directly behind the theatre.

An infra-red hearing system operates in the auditorium. Headsets are available from the Box Office. To ensure you book seats with optimum coverage, please contact the Box Office at the time of booking.

Assistance dogs are welcome in the auditorium. Please advise the Box Office when booking so suitable seating can be allocated.

Please contact the Box Office if you have any queries regarding our access facilities. This brochure is available in large print and audio format.

CONDITIONS OF SALE

Tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded once purchased. For sold out shows, the Box Office will accept returned tickets for re-sale for an administration charge of 10% of the overall ticket value of the booking.

For family shows and film, children under the age of 18 months will be issued with a free Babes in Arms ticket if they do not require their own seat.

Only food and drink purchased at the theatre can be consumed on the premises.

Please note we are a cashless venue and only able to take card payments for Box Office, Bar, Kiosk and in-house Merchandise sales. Some visiting companies selling their own merchandise may only accept cash payments. We encourage all visiting companies to take card payments but this may not always be possible.

Pushchairs and baby carriers are not permitted in the auditorium.

Customers displaying disruptive and/or anti-social behaviour within the venue will be asked to leave.

The information within this brochure was correct at the time of going to print. Changes to the programme, show timings, cast, seating and pricing are at the discretion of the management.

GROVE THEATRE SEATING PLAN