GRAND Season Brochure | Jan-April 2009

Box Office

01253 290190 Online 24hrs

blackpoolgrand.co.uk

programme

grand

January to April 2009

FOR WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK TEXT ‘GRAND’ TO 82055

Costs 1 std txt msg. We will also keep you informed of other events and new shows for FREE!

DECEMBERPANTOMIME - JANUARY

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk The North West’s No. 1 Panto!

Cinderella Starring Amanda Barrie

(Coronation Street, Bad Girls), back by popular demand Steve Royle (BBC Radio Lancashire), Jamie Morris and Terry Keeble as the Ugly Sisters. Sophia Thierens and Don Crann From the producers of Fiddler on the Roof, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and South Pacific, we present the only show you will want to see this Christmas.

Dates Friday 5th December 2008 to Sunday 4th January 2009 Adults A Shows - £17.00, £11.50 B Shows - £17.00 (£15.00), £11.50 C Shows - £11.00 Children A Shows - £17.00, £11.50 B Shows - £15.00, £11.50 C Shows - £9.00 Discounts Friends’ Preview Night Ticket £6.50 Family Ticket £50.00 (F)# 20+ B Shows £12.00, C Shows £10.00* 50+ B Shows £11.00, C Shows £9.00* 150+ B Shows £10.00, C Shows £8.00* 200+ B Shows £9.00, C Shows £7.00*

In a far away kingdom Cinderella’s father returns home having remarried and ‘inherited’ two new step-daughters. It doesn’t take long for Cinderella to realise just how wicked her step-sisters can be!

Times

Meanwhile, across town in the castle, Prince Charming is searching for a bride and invites every eligible maiden in the kingdom to a glittering ball, where he will be able to choose his princess.

Thurs 11th

This year’s pantomime at the Grand will be full of music and dance, fun and laughter with fabulous costumes and lavish sets.

Matcham Monkey Members. 6th December at 2pm - Tickets £6.00 (Subject to availability)

Suitable for all the family this Christmas time!

‘Both children and adults were roaring with laughter at the characters’ antics... and topical, up-to-theminute comical references.’

Blackpool Gazette (review for 2007/8 pantomime)

Fri 5th

PREVIEW

7pm (C)

Sat 6th

2pm (C)

7pm (C)

Sun 7th

Concert

Mon 8th

10am (C)

2pm (C)

Tues 9th

10am (C)

2pm (C)

Weds 10th

10am (C)

2pm (C)

Fri 12th

1pm (C)

7pm (C)

No Show

Sat 13th

2pm (C)

7pm (C)

Sun 14th

3pm (C)

7pm (C)

Mon 15th

10am (C)

1pm (B)

Tues 16th

10am (C)

1pm (B)

Weds 17th Thurs 18th

2pm (C)

7pm (B-F)

No Show

Fri 19th

2pm (C)

7pm (B)

Sat 20th

2pm (B-F)

7pm (B)

Sun 21st

3pm (B-F)

7pm (B)

Mon 22nd

2pm (B-F)

7pm (B)

2pm (B)

7pm (B)

Tues 23rd Weds 24th

10am (B)

Thurs 25th

Closed

2pm (B)

Fri 26th

2pm (A)

7pm (A)

Sat 27th

2pm (B-F)

7pm (B)

Sun 28th

3pm (B)

7pm (B)

Mon 29th

2pm (B)

7pm (B)

2pm (B)

7pm (B)

Thurs 1st

3pm (B-F)

7pm (B-F)

Fri 2nd

2pm (B-F)

7pm (B-F)

Sat 3rd

2pm (B-F)

7pm (B-F)

Sun 4th

3pm (B)

Tues 30th Weds 31st

NYE

January

# Selected dates, booking conditions apply, Family Ticket min 1child. * 1 free teacher per 10 students.

01

MATCHAM MONKEY CLUB - www.MatchamMonkey.co.uk Blackpool’s best FREE children’s club. The Club offers: FREE theatre tickets; a membership card; VIP invites, an interactive website, special events and discount to Blackpool Zoo. Join online!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

The 1894 Club continues to bring new life into the Grand Theatre. We believe that the enjoyment of good theatre is part of our cultural heritage. Our function is not only recreational; as a respected Blackpool institution we present theatre that is also educational and formative. We foster partnerships with several companies, trusts, foundations and educational bodies.

If you would like to become a member of The 1894 Club, please contact Neil Thomson or Stephen Mercer on 01253 290111.

We thank the following organisations for their generous support:

Official sponsors

OUR AIMS

Quality, Value and Education As previous seasons at the Grand, we are continuing to give patrons value for money and in most cases offer ticket prices that are extremely competitive compared with City-based theatres.

Blackpool’s Grand brings you quality shows from top West End producers from musicals to contemporary drama, dance and family favourites, so please consider visiting your local theatre and save on fuel costs! Moreover, please take up the opportunity of reduced car parking in West Street Car Park. This parking is directly opposite the theatre and can save you up to £7 when booked at the Grand box office in advance with your show seats.

Don’t forget you can also buy Theatre Tokens at the Box Office which you can redeem at your leisure – ideal for any special occasion.

Public sector funders

As an early Christmas gift from the Grand we are offering 5% off all new shows in this brochure if booked before January 1st 2009. Please do take advantage of this great saving.

The Grand continues to evolve with the aspiration of becoming the number one touring theatre in the North West. This, of course, will only be achieved with your much appreciated support.

Other funders

Neil Thomson Chief Executive and General Manager Making contact: Box Office 01253 290190 Email box@blackpoolgrand.co.uk In person 33 Church Street, Blackpool FY1 1HT

Supporters

03

PARKING COULDN’T BE EASIER - SAVE UP TO £7.00 Opposite the Grand is the secure West Street Car Park. Book your parking ticket when you book your show tickets from the Box Office and park from 5.30pm until 12.30am for only £2.50! (Price correct at printing)

‘I love the Grand It’s a very friendly theatre and I’m a big fan of Blackpool.’

Leslie Grantham Dad’s Army 2008

Online www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk www.matchammonkey.co.uk www.friendsofthegrand.co.uk

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

NEW YEAR’S EVE

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk A Grand Celebration

Date Wednesday 31st December

New Year’s Eve Gala Concert Artistic Director Jeremy Peaker

The Grand Theatre welcomes back The British Philharmonic Concert Orchestra One of the most magical evenings in the Grand Theatre calendar returns, when the British Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and guest soloists take to the stage.

Time Wednesday at 8pm (Please note new start time) Tickets £29.50, £27.50, £25.50 Buffet Post Concert 10.30pm £12.50 per person

Conductor Fraser Goulding Compère Mark Langley Guests Soloists Jeremy Peaker, Louise Crane, Andrew Forbes Lane and Jeni Bern Performing a selection of memorable pieces including: Sleeping Beauty Waltz, The Snowball Overture, Pink Panther The Student Prince, Time To Say Goodbye, Three Little Maids, Stars and Stripes, Auld Lang Syne and Can Can.

05

SIGN UP TO OUR MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER AND BULLETINS Receive regular updates direct to your inbox. Be the first to hear about new shows, special events, news stories, features and more.

To register visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

JANUARY

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk Raymond Gubbay presents Enchanting Fairytale Ballet

Starring The Russian State Ballet of Siberia and The Russian State Ballet Orchestra Artistic Director Sergei Bobrov Music Director and Chief Conductor Anatoly Tchepurnoi

The Nutcracker

In a magical new production, this most famous of fantasy ballets begins as night falls on a traditional fireside scene on Christmas Eve. On the stroke of midnight we are transported to an enchanting world where a Nutcracker is transformed into a handsome prince.

Coppélia

When eccentric toymaker Dr Coppelius creates a beautiful living doll, he unwittingly unleashes havoc in his local village.

Magical sets, enchanting costumes and dancing toys fill the stage in this joyous tale of mistaken identity and the search for the perfect woman.

Giselle

The story of Giselle and her aristocratic but duplicitious love Albrecht is set to a glorious score and brought to life by the magnificent costumes and virtuoso performances of the Russian State Ballet.

Generously supported by

07

FIND OUT ‘WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK’ BY TEXT? Did you know you can text GRAND to 82055 at any time to find out what’s on at the Grand this week? It costs just one standard text and free on some price plans! We will also keep you up-to-date on offers!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

Dates The Nutcracker Sunday 11th January Coppélia Monday 12th January Giselle Tuesday 13th January Times The Nutcracker Sunday at 2.30pm and 7.30pm Coppélia Monday at 7.30pm Giselle Tuesday at 7.30pm Tickets The Nutcracker £32.50, £28.50, £25.50, £18.50 Coppélia and Giselle £31.50, £30.50, £28.50, £24.50, £16.50 Full Time Students £2.00 off Excludes Gallery Family of 4# £100.00 any show Linked Ticket* 2 ballets £55.00 3 ballets £70.00 (Prices per person) Concessions available #

Minimum 1 Adult, 1 child. * Dress Circle or Stalls only.

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

FRIENDS OF THE GRAND

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Members Save £80 Discounts available:

Friends of The Grand Established 1973 The Friends of the Grand is a 2,000+ strong group of people who support the beautiful Grand Theatre and its eclectic programme.

Formed in 1973 to save the building from demolition, the first Friends were literally ‘hands-on’. They painted the dressing rooms, repaired holes to the ceiling and helped to get the theatre shipshape.

The role of the Friends of the Grand has changed over the years; nowadays Friends support the theatre in many different ways. They raise funds from subscriptions and social events to finance projects within the theatre, primarily aimed at enhancing the comfort for our patrons. Over the last thirty five years the Friends have contributed in excess of £700,000 towards projects including the provision of new carpets, seating and technical equipment. By Autumn 2008, the Friends have contributed an additional £250,000 to the Sam Lee Appeal to improve theatergoer amenities and assist in the renovation of the theatre’s interior, restoring it to its near original splendour.

Spare time on your hands?

Another way to help the theatre is via the Friends volunteer teams selling programmes, and more importantly extending a warm welcome to our patrons.

In the first instance call 01253 743300 or email friends@blackpoolgrand.co.uk.

Cinderella Preview Night (5th Dec, 7pm) £6.50 Pasadena Roof Orchestra Save £3.00 (25th Jan, 7.30pm) Murder With Love Save £5 Opening Night (2nd Feb, 8pm) Die Fledermaus Save £4.00 (8th Feb, 7.30pm) Spider’s Web Save £4.00 (24th Feb, 7.30pm) Thriller Live Save £4.00 (19th Mar, 8pm) Dreamboats and Petticoats Save £4.00 (7th Apr, 7.30pm) Singin’ In The Rain All seats £19.50 (14th Apr, 8pm) Dinnerladies Save £4.00 (25th May, 8pm) Also look out for Blood Brothers, Joseph and Cabaret. * Based on 12 months’ membership and discounts on best seats.

Friends receive the concession ticket price where a Friends discount is not available. Friends discounts can not be used in conjunction with any other offers or discounts.

*

Friends of The Grand ‘Meet the Cast’ Nights Enjoy the opportunity to meet the casts of these wonderful productions in the intimate surroundings of Matchams Bar after the performance.

Cinderella Friday 5th December Murder With Love Monday 2nd February Singin’ In The Rain Tuesday 14th April These events are FREE to Friends of The Grand members only. Due to demand these events are now ticketed events and a ticket should be obtained when purchasing your show ticket from the Box Office.

How to Join Friends’ membership benefits include: Generous concessions to many attractions - Informative newsletters ‘Meet the Cast’ nights - Opportunities to book the best seats at the beginning of each new brochure release - Special Friends’ Nights - No credit card fees.

Annual subscriptions: Friend £16.00 Senior Friend £8.00 Full Time Student Friend £8.00 Friend Plus £32.00 (for member and an accompanying guest) To join call 01253 290190 For administration information or to become a volunteer please telephone 01253 743300 or call into the office in Matcham Court (rear of theatre).

Visit us online

friendsofthegrand.co.uk 09

MATCHAM MONKEY CLUB - www.MatchamMonkey.co.uk Blackpool’s best FREE children’s club. The Club offers: FREE theatre tickets; a membership card; VIP invites, an interactive website, special events and discount to Blackpool Zoo. Join online!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

JANUARY - FEBRUARY

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk The Fantastically Frightening

Circus of Horrors Set in an archaic institution on the edge of Paris, side-show owner Dr Haze presents his show, while Paris sleeps the inmates run riot. Beware - The lunatics have taken over the Asylum!

Date Sunday 1st February Time Sunday at 7.30pm Tickets £21.00, £18.50, £15.00, £12.50 Concessions available WARNING The Circus of Horrors is not suitable for children and they will only be allowed in if accompanied by an adult who understands what the show contains; bad language, and some nudity, but not of a sexual nature. Strobe lighting and pyrotechnics are used in the show.

Pasadena Roof Orchestra Celebrating 40 Years

Happy Birthday! The Pasadena Roof Orchestra celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Don’t miss the party – come along and swing with the music that has kept this band on the road since 1969 – an unstoppable mix of swing and hot dance music.

Music that personifies a lust for life, with its infectious beat and wonderful melodies that are unforgettable.

There is hardly a great hall or theatre in the world that hasn’t been put into good spirits by some toe-tapping tunes from the Pasadena Roof Orchestra.

Date Sunday 25th January

Melody, rhythm and humour – who could ask for anything more?

Time Sunday at 7.30pm

So hurry on down and join the party!

Tickets £17.00, £15.00, £13.00

The Asylum threatens to stimulate all the senses, packed with new acts and new shocks set to surpass everything that has come before it. The Asylum is an amazing amalgamation of Witchdoctors, Voodoo Acrobats, A Pickled Person, Bendy Bodies, Demon Dwarfs, Blood Curdling Stunts and Flying Vampires.

Presided over by The Undead Ringmaster Doktor Haze who takes you through this hellish tale with the help of the live devildriven rock ‘n’ roll of the The Interceptors From Hell and a huge uncontrollable cast of Burlesque Beauties, chaosmongers and some of the world’s greatest, grotesque, most daring and bizarre circus acts.

‘Bloody Marvellous.’ Edinburgh Festival

Friends £3.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only

11

PARKING COULDN’T BE EASIER - SAVE UP TO £7.00 Opposite the Grand is the secure West Street Car Park. Book your parking ticket when you book your show tickets from the Box Office and park from 5.30pm until 12.30am for only £2.50! (Price correct at printing)

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

FEBRUARY

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk Francis Durbridge’s

Murder With Love Starring Leslie Grantham, Neil Stacy and Marcus Hutton

Ian Dickens Productions Limited are proud to present the intense and gripping thriller Murder With Love written by the world’s most popular and prolific modern thriller writer Francis Durbridge.

Leslie Grantham, EastEnders’ icon Dirty Den, stars alongside Neil Stacy, who audiences remember best from series such as The House Of Windsor and Duty Free and Marcus Hutton (Nathan Cuddington in Brookside).

Many people dislike Larry Campbell, but none with more reason than David Ryder who pursues his vendetta by obtaining a key to Campbell’s flat with the intent to exact his revenge, but his plans do not go as expected.

Deceit, suspicion, blackmail and incrimination are woven into this web of crime, culminating in a tantalising twist in the tale.

Fast-paced, exciting and packed full of blind alleys and red herrings this thriller from the master craftsman of the genre will keep audiences on the edge of their seats and follows Ian Dickens Productions’ two recent highly successful tours of Francis Durbridge’s A Touch of Danger and The Gentle Hook.

Dates Monday 2nd to Saturday 7th February Times Monday at 8.00pm, Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm Thursday and Saturday Matinees at 1.30pm Tickets £20.50, £18.50, £16.50, £14.50, £12.50 Concessions Evenings £2.00 off Matinees £4.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only Groups 20+ £3.00 off 50+ £4.00 off Dress Circle and Stall seats only Friends £5.00 off Opening Night Dress Circle and Stalls seats only

‘Fast paced thriller is classic chiller...

Grantham was excellent... a joy to watch, Stacy was outstanding and the set absolutely amazing...’

DAB Newark Advertiser ‘No thriller writer outside of Agatha Christie and Edgar Wallace has ever had more West End hits.’

International Herald Tribune

Set Design ALAN MILLER-BUNFORD

13

SIGN UP TO OUR MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER AND BULLETINS Receive regular updates direct to your inbox. Be the first to hear about new shows, special events, news stories, features and more.

To register visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

STUDENTS AND EDUCATION

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk Introducing our new

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY!

Education and Access Officer Students We are now offering discount after discount for students allowing you to see the best in live entertainment at amazing prices!

The new student offer at the Grand really is a big deal. We’ve got amazing offers to save you money, and some great ways to get involved. Not only will you receive great prices on selected performances that list a student priced ticket, but also other opportunities on a number of selected performances.

We are extending our Student Stampede to additional opening nights, there will be £5 tickets available to the first 50 students*.

That’s right 50 tickets for a fiver!

And that’s not all... we’ll also give you 10% discount on your drinks when attending a show at the Grand.

Last September Ian Lamond became our Education and Access Officer. Ian has worked professionally in Performing and Community Arts for almost twenty years.

A trained drama teacher he began by co-directing a Theatre-in-Education company in Derbyshire. By the mid 1990s he was working with Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall in developing school and community projects.

In 1997 Ian moved to London to persue project based work in Hammersmith; Hackney; Barnet and Ealing.

Returning North in 2002 he worked as Festivals Officer in Blackpool and then moved to Wyre Borough Council to take up the post of Arts Development Manager, before coming to the Grand.

This is

In January we will be launching a brand new Grand Student MySpace website - this will be for young people run by young people; it will offer you the chance to view post-show and workshop reviews, to chat and network with friends. February will see the launch of a Grand Youth Advisory Panel who will advise the Grand Theatre on ways students and young people can get more out of being involved.

If performing is your thing, there’ll be a chance for you to share your work with audiences at our bi-monthly cabaret Something Wicked This Way Comes. If writing is what you are into, look out later in the year for our STUDENTS OFFERS New Writers’ Competition. £5 tickets available on selected performances, 2009 is going to offer so much for best available seats. students, why not be a part of it?

Subject to availability and production visit blackpoolgrand.co.uk or myspace. com/blackpoolgrand.

Our Vision Our new vision for learning at the Grand is inclusive. For schools we will continue to work with visiting companies to deliver show based workshops. We’ll also be working closely with educationalists to develop a schools programme in keeping with current curriculum trends.

The Play’s The Thing Playreading Group Second Saturday each Month.

Saturday 10th January Grand Theatre @ 1.30pm Tickets £3.00 Burlesque Dance Workshop with Bella Besame Monday 2nd February Studio @ 7pm-9pm Tickets £15.00 Something Wicked this Way Comes Monday 2nd March Studio @ 8pm Tickets £5.00 To perform at Something Wicked This Way Comes email ianl@blackpoolgrand.co.uk (Performers Pay £3) Both of these events are strictly over 18. Burlesque Workshop females ONLY!

For adults we’re introducing a play reading group, writing development projects, burlesque dance workshops and more. New tours are also in development, including a costumed Victorian tour for primary years, and a sensory tour for people encountering a visual impairment.

Visit us at: www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk www.myspace.com/grandstudent

REDUCED DRINKS Save 10% off bar prices with your show ticket, Student ID and proof of age required.

Please drink responsibly DRINKAWARE.CO.UK

15

FIND OUT ‘WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK’ BY TEXT? Did you know you can text GRAND to 82055 at any time to find out what’s on at the Grand this week? It costs just one standard text and free on some price plans! We will also keep you up-to-date on offers!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

FEBRUARY

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Die Fledermaus Opera della Luna Die Fledermaus is surely one of the world’s most famous operettas, and it now gets a glittering new look by the country’s best small-scale operetta company.

Opera della Luna have earned themselves a matchless reputation, touring the country for over ten years with acclaimed productions of Gilbert and Sullivan and Offenbach, and they now turn their hand to the “waltz king” Johann Strauss, and this most sparkling of scores.

Date Sunday 8th February Dr Falke was once left to wander home, drunk, and dressed as a bat, by his Time friend Gabriel von Eisenstein. To exact Sunday at 7.30pm his revenge he arranges for Eisenstein to attend an extremely risqué party at the Tickets home of the outrageous Russian £18.00, £16.00, aristocrat, Prince Orlofsky. There, £14.00 Eisenstein seduces a mysterious Hungarian countess, who is in fact his Concessions own wife in disguise. £2.00 off Dress Circle and This entirely new, saucy, production is Stalls seats only directed - with his own new translation by Jeff Clarke, and designed by Gabriella Friends Csanyi-Wills; the team that created the £4.00 off company’s recent wonderful production Dress Circle and of The Mikado.

Stalls seats only An evening not to be missed by all fans of opera and lunacy!

Schools ALIVE! As part of Blackpool Council’s commitment to Culture, a unique strategic partnership continues between Blackpool Music Service and The Grand Theatre; these evenings deliver the forward-thinking priorities and objectives for the annual Schools ALIVE! concert.

An exciting opportunity for 1600 pupils to perform on the Grand’s mainstage.

A brilliant evening’s entertainment for both students and audience alike.

Dates Monday 9th to Thursday 12th February Times Monday to Thursday at 7.00pm Tickets Adults £4.00 Child £3.50 Senior £3.50 PLEASE NOTE: Please book early for this production as dates have sold out previously!

17

MATCHAM MONKEY CLUB - www.MatchamMonkey.co.uk Blackpool’s best FREE children’s club. The Club offers: FREE theatre tickets; a membership card; VIP invites, an interactive website, special events and discount to Blackpool Zoo. Join online!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

FEBRUARY

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk New Era, New Show, Old Time Variety Twist!

Dates Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th February

Miss Behave’s Variety Nighty

Times Saturday and Sunday at 7.30pm

Get ready for a laughter-filled evening with top variety and speciality acts from around the globe.

Tickets All seats £17.00

Raunchy, risqué, saucy and sassy... ...but always classy!

Concessions £3.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only

Come along to the Grand for a sizzling night of variety and naughty surprises on Valentine’s weekend.

PLEASE NOTE:

Having toured the globe as host of the 18+ Only Contains nudity world smash hit La Clique, and direct from a sell-out season in London’s Roundhouse, the infamous Miss Behave, one of the last surviving female sword swallowers in the world (as seen on The Tonight Show, Graham Norton, Guinness World Records) and ultimate Mistress of Ceremonies is bringing her extraordinary friends to wow you with act after act of sword swallowing, striptease, comedy, magic, hula hooping, dancing girls and much, much more…

Please note this is an adult 18+ show!

‘A colourful, old-style variety night with an edge as sharp as the blades Miss Behave swallows.’ The Stage ‘Irreverent, cheeky, and highly entertaining. The goal is pure entertainment, and it is very decidedly achieved.’ whatsonstage.com ‘Great act!’ Liza Minnelli ‘Amazing!’ The Tonight Show ‘She’s hilarious.’ Joan Rivers

19

PARKING COULDN’T BE EASIER - SAVE UP TO £7.00 Opposite the Grand is the secure West Street Car Park. Book your parking ticket when you book your show tickets from the Box Office and park from 5.30pm until 12.30am for only £2.50! (Price correct at printing)

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

GUIDED TOURS AND DECEMBER SPOOKY GOINGS - JANUARY ON

“FRANK MATCHAM”

Spooky goings on!

Grand Guided Supernatural Grand Ghost Tour at Tours Events Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks, Blackpool

Thursday 8pm to 10pm January The Grand is renowned architect Frank 16th October Saturday 10th - Overnight Investigation at Matcham’s masterpiece theatre, with Blackpool Opera House, 11pm to 4am a long and lively history.

Overnight Ghost Walk with Wednesday 14th – Illuminations Depot Ian Lawman at Spanish Ghost Tour,Hall 8pm toSuite 10pm Join our very own “Frank Matcham” for a Monday 27th October 11pm21st to 4am Wednesday - Pleasure Beach Ghost behind the scenes tour. See the renovated, Tour, 8pm to 10pm ornate auditorium and savour the wonders Saturday 24th – Grand Theatre Ghost of the hidden, functional world behind the A Spiritual Evening with Tour, 8pm to 10pm curtain.

Clairvoyant Medium Helen Tuesday 27thChadwick - Blackpool Tower Ballroom GhostTheatre Tour, 8pm to 10pm at the Grand Stand on the raked stage, observe the 30th 7.30pm - Grand Ghost Coach Trip to cantilevered tiers of circles. SeeWednesday the stage 29thFriday October Samlesbury Hall, Preston - dept Blackpool from the wings, the machinery for changing 7pm, return 1.30am scenes and the latest lighting equipment in Grand Ghost Tour at what was one of Britain’s firstHallowe’en all-electric February Blackpool Winter Gardens theatres.

Tuesday - Blackpool Tower Ballroom Friday 31st October 10pm 3rd to 12.30am Ghost Tour, 8pm to 10pm Dates Friday 6th – Illuminations Depot Ghost Friday 13th February Grand Ghost Tour the Tour, 8pmat to 10pm Thursday 26th March Wednesday 11th - Pleasure Beach Opera House, Blackpool Friday 24th April Blackpool Ghost Tour, 8pm to 10pm Monday 3rd November 9pm to 11pm Friday 20th - Ian Lawman Overnight Ghost Times Walk at Blackpool Zoo, 11pm to 4am Tours begin at 11am and last approx. 90 minutes Overnight Investigation at the March Grand Theatre, Blackpool Wednesday 4th to - Pleasure Tickets £10.00 Wednesday 5th November 11pm 4am Beach Blackpool Ghost Tour, 8pm to 10pm To book call 01253 290190 Saturday 7th - Overnight Investigation, Grand Ghost Tour Spanish Hall,at Winter Gardens, 11pm to Educational Packages 4am Blackpool Illuminations Depot Talks and Workshops with visiting Monday9pm 9th -to Blackpool companies are also available.To discuss11th November Tuesday 11pm Tower Ballroom Ghost Tour, 8pm to 10pm your Learning requirements contact Ian Friday 13th – Grand Ghost Coach Trip to Lamond on 01253 290111 Grand Ghost Samlesbury Coach Trip to Hall, Preston - dept Blackpool 1.30am Samlesbury 7pm, Hall,return Preston Wednesday 18th – Louis Tussaud’s To access a downloadable brochure Friday 30th January 2009 Waxworks Ghost Tour, 8pm to 10pm about the theatre, visit: www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk April Tuesday 7th - Blackpool Tower Ballroom Ghost Tour, 8pm to 10pm Wedneday 15th - Winter Gardens Ghost Tour, 9pm to 11pm Wednesday 22nd – Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks Ghost Tour, 8pm to 10pm Wednesday 29th - Blackpool Zoo Ghost Tour, 8pm to 10pm Online www.supernaturalevents.co.uk Book for all events

‘The Grand Ghost Tours are some of the most fascinating supernatural events I have ever taken part in.’

Ian Lawman LivingTV’s Living With The Dead

if you dare by calling

01253 290190

Prices Tours £10, Overnight Investigations £30 Ian Lawman £65, Trips orCoach online at £30 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

21 01

SIGN UP TO OUR MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER AND BULLETINS Receive regular updates direct to your inbox. Be the first to hear about new shows, special events, news stories, features and more.

To register visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

FEBRUARY

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Variety Live at the Grand

Dates Thursday 19th to Saturday 21st February

Starring Jeff Hobson, Wolfgang, Mazeppa Cossacks, Charlie Frye & Co, Ben Stone and Wally Eastwood Variety Live at the Grand features sensational Speciality Acts brought to you direct from Las Vegas!

The world class line-up includes Jeff Hobson and his unique brand of comedy laced with a touch of magic; from the Cirque du Soleil the artistry and athleticism of Wolfgang on the German Wheel; the incredible Mazeppa Cossacks from the Ukraine; the international award-winning Vaudevillian Charlie Frye & Co.; new singing star Ben Stone; and the ‘man with the fastest hands on earth’ and one of the greatest entertainers currently appearing in Las Vegas, Wally Eastwood.

Times Thursday to Saturday at 7.30pm Saturday Matinee at 2.00pm Tickets Adults £17.00 Child £8.00 Concessions £2.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only

Music from the superb Variety Live Orchestra - under the direction of Musical Director, Ian MacGregor.

Variety Live at the Grand is a fabulous show for the whole family and a rare opportunity to enjoy so many world class Las Vegas peformers in one show!

Produced and Directed by West End and Las Vegas producer Paul Stone.

23

FIND OUT ‘WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK’ BY TEXT? Did you know you can text GRAND to 82055 at any time to find out what’s on at the Grand this week? It costs just one standard text and free on some price plans! We will also keep you up-to-date on offers!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

FEBRUARY

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Spider’s Web

by Agatha Christie Starring Denis Lill, Melanie Gutteridge, Catherine Shipton, Ben Nealon, Bruce Montague and Mark Wynter Following the Agatha Christie Theatre Company’s hugely successful productions of The Hollow, The Unexpected Guest, and most recently And Then There Were None; the fourth instalment in the highly acclaimed series promises to be the most intriguing and entertaining yet.

When Clarissa discovers a dead body in her drawing room, she tries to dispose of it before her Foreign Office diplomat husband returns home with a government VIP guest in tow.

Equipped with an over-active imagination, Clarissa finds real-life murder a little too hard to handle! And having persuaded her houseguests to help her, it soon becomes apparent that the dead man was not unknown to everyone amongst them.

As the web of deceit starts to unravel, Clarissa pulls her friends into a desperate race to unveil the murderer and solve the mystery before the police discover the felony and arrest her as their prime suspect!

AGATHA CHRISTIE’S

Dates Monday 23rd to Saturday 28th February Times Monday at 8.00pm Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm Thursday and Saturday Matinees at 2.00pm Tickets Monday Opening Offer All seats £18.50 Tuesday to Saturday Evenings £22.00, £19.00, £18.00, £16.00 Thursday and Saturday Matinees £20.00, £17.00, £16.00, £14.00 Concessions Matinees £3.00 off Evenings £2.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only Groups 20+ £4.00 off 50+ £5.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only

Friends Presented by the official Agatha Christie £4.00 off Tuesday Dress Circle and Theatre Company, the all-star cast features Stalls seats only Denis Lill from The Royal, Survivors, and Outside Edge; Melanie Gutteridge best known for her role as PC Emma Keane in The Bill; Catherine Shipton famous for her long-standing and highly acclaimed role as Duffy in the hit BBC hospital drama Casualty; Soldier Soldier star Ben Nealon; Bruce Montague renowned for his role in Butterflies; and Mark Wynter who has delighted audiences with his all-round talents from music career to television, film and stage.

‘When you have the quality of writing and suspense so eerily crafted by Christie and the worth of talent on display so carefully brought together by Bill Kenwright, you just can’t fail.’

Bucks Free Press

25

MATCHAM MONKEY CLUB - www.MatchamMonkey.co.uk Blackpool’s best FREE children’s club. The Club offers: FREE theatre tickets; a membership card; VIP invites, an interactive website, special events and discount to Blackpool Zoo. Join online!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

MARCH

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Horrible Histories We are proud to present a world premiere of Horrible Histories live on stage!

Using actors and amazing 3D special effects, these two astounding shows – Frightful First World War and Woeful Second World War are guaranteed to thrill you and your children. Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips. Written by Terry Deary – the world’s best selling non-fiction writer for children – this ground-breaking theatrical presentation will leave you gasping!

Frightful First World War

Come and experience the front line of the worst war ever. Relive the terror of the trenches and deal with dreadful new weapons. Join the soldiers as they go over the top and prepare yourself for battle!

Woeful Second World War

From the brutal Blitz to the soggy shelters, join young Alf and Sally as they are evacuated to darkest Wales, where they deal with rotten rations, scary schools and new parents! But the bombers are on their way so be sure to take cover!

‘The latest sensation on the theatrical block.’ **** The Times

Dates Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 7th March Times First World War Tuesday at 7.00pm Wednesday at 10.30am Thursday at 1.30pm Friday at 10.30am Saturday at 7.00pm Second World War Wednesday at 1.30pm Thursday at 10.30am Friday at 7.00pm Saturday at 2.30pm Tickets Adults £11.00 Children £9.00 Family 3 £24.00 Family 4 £32.00 Special Linked Ticket (see both shows) Adult £17.50 Children £14.00 Family 3 £38.00 Family 4 £51.00 Schools Special One show £6.50 Both shows £10.00 Free teachers places available

FREE Education Pack available for school groups on booking call 01253 290190.

Horrible Histories books are published by Scholastic Ltd. Horrible Histories is a trademark of Scholastic Inc. and is used under authorisation. All rights reserved. Illustration copyright © Martin Brown 2008

27

PARKING COULDN’T BE EASIER - SAVE UP TO £7.00 Opposite the Grand is the secure West Street Car Park. Book your parking ticket when you book your show tickets from the Box Office and park from 5.30pm until 12.30am for only £2.50! (Price correct at printing)

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

DIARY - WHAT’S ON!

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

What’s on

Diary Page January - April 2009 January 09 Thursday 1st Friday 2nd Saturday 3rd Sunday 4th Monday 5th Tuesday 6th Wednesday 7th Thursday 8th Friday 9th Saturday 10th Sunday 11th Monday 12th Tuesday 13th Wednesday 14th Thursday 15th Friday 16th Saturday 17th Sunday 18th Monday 19th Tuesday 20th Wednesday 21st Thursday 22nd Friday 23rd Saturday 24th Sunday 25th Monday 26th Tuesday 27th Wednesday 28th Thursday 29th Friday 30th Saturday 31st February Sunday 1st Monday 2nd Tuesday 3rd Wednesday 4th Thursday 5th Friday 6th Saturday 7th Sunday 8th Monday 9th Tuesday 10th Wednesday 11th Thursday 12th Friday 13th Saturday 14th Sunday 15th Monday 16th Tuesday 17th Wednesday 18th Thursday 19th Friday 20th Saturday 21st Sunday 22nd Monday 23rd Tueday 24th Wednesday 25th Thursday 26th Friday 27th Saturday 28th

Cinderella Cinderella Cinderella Cinderella Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open The Nutcracker Coppélia Giselle Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Pasadena Roof Orchestra Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Circus of Horrors Murder With Love Murder With Love Murder With Love Murder With Love Murder With Love Murder With Love Die Fledermaus Schools ALIVE 2009 Schools ALIVE 2009 Schools ALIVE 2009 Schools ALIVE 2009 Box Office Open Miss Behave’s Variety Nighty Miss Behave’s Variety Nighty Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Variety Live at the Grand Variety Live at the Grand Variety Live at the Grand Box Office Open Spider’s Web Spider’s Web Spider’s Web Spider’s Web Spider’s Web Spider’s Web

3.00pm, 7.00pm 2.00pm, 7.00pm 2.00pm, 7.00pm 3.00pm

2.30pm, 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

7.30pm

7.30pm 8.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 1.30pm, 7.30pm 7.30pm 1.30pm, 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.00pm 7.00pm 7.00pm 7.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

7.00pm 7.00pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm 8.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm

March Sunday 1st Monday 2nd Tuesday 3rd Wednesday 4th Thursday 5th Friday 6th Saturday 7th Sunday 8th Monday 9th Tuesday 10th Wednesday 11th Thursday 12th Friday 13th Saturday 14th Sunday 15th Monday 16th Tuesday 17th Wednesday 18th Thursday 19th Friday 20th Saturday 21st Sunday 22nd Monday 23rd Tuesday 24th Wednesday 25th Thursday 26th Friday 27th Saturday 28th Sunday 29th Monday 30th Tuesday 31st

Box Office Open Box Office Open Horrible Histories (see show page for which show) Horrible Histories (see show page for which show) Horrible Histories (see show page for which show) Horrible Histories (see show page for which show) Horrible Histories (see show page for which show) Box Office Open Box Office Open An Inspector Calls An Inspector Calls An Inspector Calls An Inspector Calls An Inspector Calls Gordon Smith Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Thriller Live Thriller Live Thriller Live Box Office Open Turandot Aida Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open A Feast of Gilbert and Sullivan 2 Solid Silver 60s Show Box Office Open The BFG

April Wednesday 1st Thursday 2nd Friday 3rd Saturday 4th Sunday 5th Monday 6th Tuesday 7th Wednesday 8th Thursday 9th Friday 10th Saturday 11th Sunday 12th Monday 13th Tuesday 14th Wednesday 15th Thursday 16th Friday 17th Saturday 18th Sunday 19th Monday 20th Tuesday 21st Wednesday 22nd Thursday 23rd Friday 24th Saturday 25th Sunday 26th Monday 27th Tuesday 28th Wednesday 29th Thursday 30th Friday 1st May Saturday 2nd May

The BFG The BFG The BFG The BFG Box Office Open Dreamboats and Petticoats Dreamboats and Petticoats Dreamboats and Petticoats Dreamboats and Petticoats Dreamboats and Petticoats Dreamboats and Petticoats Basil Brush’s High Skool Mania Box Office Open Singin’ in the Rain Singin’ in the Rain Singin’ in the Rain Singin’ in the Rain Singin’ in the Rain Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open Box Office Open My Fair Lady My Fair Lady My Fair Lady My Fair Lady

7.00pm 10.30am, 1.30pm 10.30am, 1.30pm 10.30am, 7.00pm 2.30pm, 7.00pm 8.00pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm 7.30pm

8.00pm 7.30pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.00pm 10.30am, 1.30pm 10.30am, 1.30pm 10.30am, 7.00pm 11am, 2pm, 6pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm 1.00pm, 4.00pm 8.00pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm

7.30pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.00pm, 7.30pm

May 18th - 23rd Cabaret May 25th - 30th Dinnerladies June 22nd - July 4th Blood Brothers

29

SIGN UP TO OUR MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER AND BULLETINS Receive regular updates direct to your inbox. Be the first to hear about new shows, special events, news stories, features and more.

To register visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

MARCH

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

An Inspector Calls Directed by Stephen Daldry Originally produced by The National Theatre WINNER OF 19 MAJOR AWARDS From the Director of the Academy Award-winning blockbuster The Hours and Olivier Award-winning musical Billy Elliot, comes the magnificent West End and Broadway production of JB Priestley’s classic thriller, An Inspector Calls.

Epic staging, raw emotion and a sweeping score are just some of the ingredients that have made An Inspector Calls a smashhit all over the world, winning more awards than any other play in history.

When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman. His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives and challenge us all to examine our consciences.

‘A thrilling, magisterial production.’

Sunday Times ‘Stunning. Blazingly original stage imagery. Dark and gleaming and elegant.’

New York Times

Dates Tuesday 10th to Saturday 14th March Times Tuesday at 8.00pm Wednesday to Saturday at 7.30pm Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday Matinees at 2.00pm Tickets Tuesday to Saturday £22.50, £18.50, £16.50, £11.50 Concessions Evenings £2.00 off Matinees £4.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only Students and Schools £10.00 all shows Groups 20+ £3.00 off 50+ £4.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only PLEASE NOTE This production has no interval

Generously supported by

From the Director of Billy Elliot ‘DON’T DARE MISS IT’

31

*****

Mail on Sunday

FIND OUT ‘WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK’ BY TEXT? Did you know you can text GRAND to 82055 at any time to find out what’s on at the Grand this week? It costs just one standard text and free on some price plans! We will also keep you up-to-date on offers!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

BOOKING CONDITIONS

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Booking Conditions Online 24hrs blackpoolgrand.co.uk Box Office 01253 290190 Groups/Schools 01253 743232

Opening times In Person Open from 10.00am daily. Times do vary on occasions, please call 01253 290190 to confirm.

Grand Theatre, 33 Church Street, Blackpool FY1 1HT. Getting to us

By Car West Street Car Park with CCTV (above British Home Stores), opposite the theatre. SATNAV West Street Car park postcode FY1 1HA. ‘Show and Park’ West Street Car Park tickets from the Grand Theatre. Only £2.50 (park 5.30pm to 12.30am). We recommend purchasing at time of booking theatre tickets as availability is limited. Discounted car park tickets only available from the Box Office - acquire before parking. By Bus Located 50 feet from most main bus links (British Home Stores). Blackpool Transport 01253 473000 or visit blackpooltransport.com.

Train Blackpool North Station is approximately five minutes walk; regular incoming direct services from Preston, Leeds, Manchester, and beyond. National Rail 08457 48 49 50 or visit nationalrail.co.uk.

Taxi Rank Located 50 feet from the Grand Theatre entrance (Church Street). A free taxi phone is available in the theatre foyer.

Ways to pay and fees All major credit and debit cards accepted. Credit card fee £1.50 per transaction. Debit cards no fee. Cheques made payable to Blackpool Grand Theatre. Online booking charge £1.00 per ticket.

Second class postage of tickets to mainland UK 60p, recorded £4.25. All tickets are non-refundable.

Concessions Apply to: Senior Citizens, Registered Disabled, Under 18s, Full-time Students, Registered Unemployed, Equity, BECTU and MU Members. ID required when requesting concessions. Only one concession per ticket, and may not be used in conjunction with other offers. Subject to availability, please request at time of booking.

Exchange and re-sale Ticket exchange service £1.50 per ticket. Tickets can be exchanged for another performance of the same production, not for other events. For an exchange, tickets must be returned to the Box Office 3 days prior to the performance. Unable to use your tickets? We can attempt to re-sell them for a fee of 50p per ticket (at the patron’s risk). The theatre’s own available seats take priority.

An Evening of Mediumship with

Gordon Smith

‘Hailed as Britain’s most accurate medium’ Gordon Smith is one of the top psychic mediums and spiritual teachers in the UK. He developed his outstanding abilities as a medium under the tutelage of some of the great legends within the Spiritualist Church.

Date Sunday 15th March Time Sunday at 7.30pm Tickets £20.00

‘There are no guaranteed or Gordon now conducts healing and results and the show is mediumship workshops and events around forcertain the purposes of amusement/ the world. His Celtic charm and lively entertainment.’ demonstrations provide his audience with a rare opportunity to experience the fascinating phenomenon of mediumship, which he delivers to his audience with a mix of humour, pure passion, and empathy to others.

Gordon has been featured in numerous television documentaries. He has travelled to many parts of the world to appear before audiences, and written six bestselling books - Spirit Messenger, The Unbelievable Truth, Through My Eyes, Stories from the other Side, Life Changing Messages and The Amazing Power of Animals - which have been published to critical acclaim.

Please check your tickets at the point of sale. While every effort is made to provide accurate information on release of our brochure, changes to the programme do happen, please check the website for the latest information.

Gordon has also appeared on Richard and Judy, This Morning and Living TV’s most successful show, Most Haunted. Most recently he has been seen on The Biography channel with his series Psychic Therapy. Gordon is also a regular columnist for Best magazine.

Please advise at time of booking of any special requirements.

Full Terms and Conditions at www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

‘Amazing.’ Time Out ‘Medium to the Stars.’ The Daily Mirror

33

MATCHAM MONKEY CLUB - www.MatchamMonkey.co.uk Blackpool’s best FREE children’s club. The Club offers: FREE theatre tickets; a membership card; VIP invites, an interactive website, special events and discount to Blackpool Zoo. Join online!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

MARCH

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

THRILLER Live THRILLER Live is a spectacular concert specially created to celebrate the incredible career of the World’s Greatest Entertainer - Michael Jackson.

From the producers of The Rat Pack and Dancing In The Streets, THRILLER Live features a West End cast of performers including singers, a live band and fantastic dancers paying tribute to the true King of Pop! This sensational concert features specially created choreography and brilliant vocal performances, that brings the magic of Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 to life.

The show is packed with over two hours of hit songs which include: I Want You Back, I’ll Be There, Show You The Way To Go, Can You Feel It, Rock With You, She’s Out Of My Life, Thriller, Beat It, Billie Jean, Earth Song, and many more!

Dates Thursday 19th to Saturday 21st March Times Thursday at 8.00pm Friday and Saturday at 7.30pm Saturday Matinee at 2.00pm Tickets Thursday Opening Offer £24.50, £22.50, £20.50, £17.50 Friday and Saturday Evenings £26.50, £24.50, £22.50, £19.50 Saturday Matinees £21.50, £19.50, £17.50, £14.50 Groups Groups 20+ £3.00 off Groups 50+ £4.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only Concessions £2.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only Friends £4.00 off Tuesday Dress Circle and Stalls seats only Generously supported by

35

PARKING COULDN’T BE EASIER - SAVE UP TO £7.00 Opposite the Grand is the secure West Street Car Park. Book your parking ticket when you book your show tickets from the Box Office and park from 5.30pm until 12.30am for only £2.50! (Price correct at printing)

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

‰ $"4" 3JDPSEJ #.( 3JDPSEJ 4 Q " .*-"/

MARCH Ellen Kent & Amphitheatre Productions presents

Puccini’s Turandot Ellen Kent presents Turandot in celebration of Pavarotti’s life, highlighting the unforgettable aria ‘Nessun Dorma’. Ellen Kent was inspired in 1993 to produce her first opera having seen Pavarotti’s performance at the 1990 World Cup, which opened up opera to the masses. In Turandot, ancient China is brought to life with the Terracotta Army gazing down from Will Bowen’s set, in this epic production.

Turandot is the story of the cold-hearted princess, who is surrounded by suitors facing death if they fail to answer her riddle correctly, and the one man who can melt the ice in her heart.

Ellen Kent & Amphitheatre Productions presents

Dates Turandot Monday 23rd March Aida Tuesday 24th March Times Monday and Tuesday at 7.30pm Tickets ÂŁ31.00, ÂŁ28.00, ÂŁ26.00, ÂŁ22.50, ÂŁ16.50 Generously supported by

Sung in Italian with English surtitles. Š CASA Ricordi BMG Ricordi S.p.A. MILAN

37

SIGN UP TO OUR MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER AND BULLETINS Receive regular updates direct to your inbox. Be the first to hear about new shows, special events, news stories, features and more.

To register visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Verdi’s Aida

The splendour of Egypt is set against the grandeur of the Colosseum of Rome in this spectacular production. Ellen Kent’s direction is influenced by the ancient Greek dramas of Euripides in this new take on Aida.

This tragic love story is brought to life in a production set against one of the greatest pieces of music Verdi ever wrote with the well known arias ‘Celeste Aida’, ‘Ritorna Vincitor’ and the great chorus piece the ‘Triumphal March’. This new version of Aida symbolises the powerful religious hold of the priests of Egypt and includes dance sequences based on the ancient temple dancers.

Aida is a story of war, jealousy and revenge, centred around the doomed love of the beautiful Ethiopian slave girl, Aida, and the Egyptian hero, Radames.

Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

Both productions have been directed by Ellen Kent in an amphitheatre set designed by London designer, Will Bowen and show the Chisinau National Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus at their best.

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

MARCH

A Feast of Gilbert and Sullivan 2

Starring The British Philharmonic Concert Orchestra Featuring former stars of the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company Conductor Anthony Kraus Marilyn Hill Smith Soprano, Nicholas Sales Tenor, Pauline Birchall Mezzo, Date Jeremy Peaker Baritone, John Ayldon Saturday 28th March - Bass Time Former star singers of the D’Oyly Saturday at 7.30pm Carte Opera Company return to the Grand Theatre, Blackpool with another Tickets wonderful journey through the works of £18.00, £16.00, Gilbert and Sullivan £14.00 With extracts from all of the G&S operas The Mikado, Pirates of Penzance, The Gondoliers, HMS Pinafore, Iolanthe, Patience and Ruddigore.

Presented in a traditional style, with short dialogue scenes and witty anecdotes of times spent in the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company.

39

Concessions £2.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only Friends £4.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only

FIND OUT ‘WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK’ BY TEXT? Did you know you can text GRAND to 82055 at any time to find out what’s on at the Grand this week? It costs just one standard text and free on some price plans! We will also keep you up-to-date on offers!

The Solid Silver 60s Show

Date Sunday 29th March

The UK’s original and premier 60s show is back once again!

The Solid Silver 60s Show, now in its 24th year brings together the unforgettable talents of The Searchers, Wayne Fontana, The Merseybeats, John Walker (of the Walker brothers) and The Dakotas!

Time Sunday at 7.30pm Tickets £23.00, £21.00, £19.00 Concessions £2.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only

The place to hear the classic hits performed by the original hitmakers!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

DECEMBER - JANUARY APRIL

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk Fiery Light presents a Royal & Derngate Northampton production

The BFG

By ROALD DAHL

Adapted by DAVID WOOD Directed by Phil Clark When little orphan Sophie is snatched out of her bed in the dead of night by the BFG she fears the worst. His grisly neighbours the Bloodbottler and the Fleshlumpeater like nothing more than swalloping human beans, especially nice little childers, but the Big Friendly Giant is a dream-maker and not a man-eater and he’s about to take Sophie on a journey she never expected!

An undisputed national treasure and the world’s favourite children’s author, Roald Dahl has enchanted young minds for more than twenty five years with stories that fire the imagination, bring dreams to life and release squeals of both terror and delight.

The BFG is classic Dahl and this brand new stage show promises to mix up heart-pounding adventures with life-long friendships, jumbly words and even some whizzpopping in front of the Queen!

Dates Tuesday 31st March to Saturday 4th April Times Tuesday at 7.00pm Wednesday and Thursday at 10.30am and 1.30pm Friday at 10.30am and 7.00pm Saturday at 11.00am, 2.00pm and 6.00pm Tickets £17.50, £15.50, £12.50 Family Ticket £55.00 (Min 1 Adult, 1 Child) Children £2.00 off Schools £8.50 Free Teacher Places available

This new production is adapted by David Wood – the UK’s National Children’s Dramatist (TV Times) and directed by Phil Clark.

‘This is a whizzcracking show – you’d be bogswinkled to miss it.’

The Guardian ‘This will thrill the kids without boring the adults – it’s quite scrumdiddlyumptious.’ Bristol Evening Post ‘The chiddlers in the audience seemed genuinely enthralled – and it certainly makes a change from the telebunkum box.’

Financial Times

Generously supported by Illustration © Quentin Blake 1982

41 01

MATCHAM MONKEY CLUB - www.MatchamMonkey.co.uk Blackpool’s best FREE children’s club. The Club offers: FREE theatre tickets; a membership card; VIP invites, an interactive website, special events and discount to Blackpool Zoo. Join online!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

DECEMBER - JANUARY APRIL

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Dreamboats and Petticoats

Dates Monday 6th to Saturday 11th April

Dreamboats and Petticoats became the biggest selling album of the decade after its release last year, amassing an amazing 600,000+ sales. Inspired by the album, Dreamboats and Petticoats The Musical will give you the greatest time of your life – taking you back to a time when each passing week brought another classic track. Featuring songs from Roy Orbison, The Shadows, Eddie Cochran, Billy Fury, Chuck Berry and many more.

In 1961 emotions run high as talented young musicians Norman and Bobby compete to win the hearts of their adoring female fans – and more importantly, the gorgeous Laura. But when Laura shows that she’s no slouch with the guitar, rock ‘n’ roll fame beckons...

Dreamboats and Petticoats - the songs will live forever.

Featuring the hit songs Teenager In Love, Only The Lonely, Blue Moon, Smoke Gets In Your Eyes, Up On the Roof, Runaway, Dream Lover, Take Good Care Of My Baby, Lipstick On Your Collar, (We’re Gonna) Rock Around The Clock, Rubber Ball, Blue Velvet, Be Bop A Lula, The Loco-motion, You Can Never Tell and many more hits from music’s golden era!

Times Monday at 7.30pm Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm Thursday and Saturday Matinees at 2.00pm Tickets Monday Opening Offer £24.50, £21.50, £19.50, £16.50 Tuesday to Saturday Evenings £27.50, £24.50, £22.50, £18.50 Thursday and Saturday Matinees £24.50, £21.50, £19.50, £16.50 Concessions Matinees £3.00 off Evenings £2.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only Groups 20+ £4.00 off 50+ £5.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only Friends £4.00 off Tuesday Dress Circle and Stalls seats only

43

PARKING COULDN’T BE EASIER - SAVE UP TO £7.00 Opposite the Grand is the secure West Street Car Park. Book your parking ticket when you book your show tickets from the Box Office and park from 5.30pm until 12.30am for only £2.50! (Price correct at printing)

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

EASTER WEEKEND

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY

Matcham Monkey!

Starring The Monkey Himself plus Special Guests

Matcham Monkey will be holding his 1st Birthday Party somewhere very special.

Discounted Matcham Monkey Tickets Cinderella Pantomime 6th December 2.00pm £6.00 Horrible Histories Any date £6.50 Basil Brush ‘s High Skool Mania 12th April £10.00

Blackpool’s brand new, multi-million pound Hounds Hill Shopping Centre will be the location of his 1st Birthday Party.

We have lots planned; music, dance, balloons, flags, giveaways, competitions and a face-painter plus some very, very special guests coming along to wish him a Happy Birthday.

Membership offers: Free Membership card Free tickets Members’ Website 20% off entrance to Blackpool Zoo VIP Invites A ‘Big Bash’ Birthday Event Terms and Conditions apply to membership.

Visit blackpoolgrand.co.uk or matchammonkey.co.uk

Why not make Matcham Monkey a birthday card to celebrate, and of course don’t forget we will have bananas galore, So make sure you have the date free!

EASTER WEEKEND! Saturday, 11th April 2009 You don’t have to be a member to enjoy the event - but if you want to become a member (and why wouldn’t you!) of the best FREE TO JOIN Club in Blackpool then you can join beforehand by visiting the Matcham Monkey Website or join on the day!

For more information on this event visit www.matchammonkey.co.uk

45

SIGN UP TO OUR MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER AND BULLETINS Receive regular updates direct to your inbox. Be the first to hear about new shows, special events, news stories, features and more.

To register visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Basil Brush’s High Skool Mania Legendary TV superstar Basil Brush hits town with his fabulous family laughter show High Skool Mania.

Join us for an unforgettable lesson in Madness, Mayhem and Mess! Basil will be helped by a spectacular supporting class, including Crazy Carl Johns, Double Trouble, Bonnie, and madcap balloon-atic Bob Wooding!

It’s a Skool-tastic adventure with gallons of giggles guaranteed!

Will Basil pass his ballet exam? Will there be kissing at the end of term Disco? And who will end up in the Naughty Corner?

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

Date Sunday 12th April Times Sunday at 1.00pm and 4.00pm Tickets All seats £12.00 Matcham Monkey Members £10.00 Family Family 4 £39.00 Generously supported by

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Basil Brush® © 2008 I Owen/P Firmin/Entertainment Rights PLC

Following the huge sucess of Matcham Monkey’s launch party last year we have gone abosolutely bananas and picked the biggest venue we could find!

For details on the MATCHAM MONKEY CLUB visit MatchamMonkey.co.uk

APRIL

From the producers of DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, 42nd STREET, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, SOUTH PACIFIC and SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS comes a spectacular new production…

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk Golden Globe Winner

Singin’ In The Rain Starring Tim Flavin

From the producers of such massive touring hits as 42nd Street, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, South Pacific and many more hit musical revivals comes a brand new production of Singin’ in the Rain.

Singin’ in the Rain features all the style and spectacle of a golden age and has a host of some of the best loved comedy routines, dance numbers, and songs ever written, including Good Morning, Make ’em Laugh, Moses Supposes, You Were Meant For Me and of course the most famous song and dance number of all time Singin’ in the Rain.

Olivier award winning (On Your Toes) West End and Broadway star Tim Flavin plays Don Lockwood, the part immortalised by Gene Kelly. Tim has also received a best actor nomination for his parts in My One and Only, and Crazy For You. Other musicals include Kiss Me Kate, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, White Christmas, The Gay Divorcee, Chicago and 42nd Street amongst a long and distinguished list.

Guaranteed to lift your spirits and send you out singing and dancing whatever the weather.

Starring

TIM FLAVIN

47

FIND OUT ‘WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK’ BY TEXT? Did you know you can text GRAND to 82055 at any time to find out what’s on at the Grand this week? It costs just one standard text and free on some price plans! We will also keep you up-to-date on offers!

Generously supported by

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

Dates Tuesday 14th to Saturday 18th April Times Tuesday at 8.00pm Wednesday to Saturday at 7.30pm Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday Matinees at 2.00pm Tickets Tuesday to Saturday Evenings £29.50, £27.50, £25.50, £18.50 Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday Matinees £27.50, £25.50, £23.50, £16.50 Children £12.50 any show Friends £19.50 Tuesday only Groups 20+ £4.00 off 50+ £5.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only Concessions £2.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only

‘What a glorious feelin’ I’m happy again I’m laughing at clouds So dark up above The sun’s in my heart And I’m ready for love’ GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

FRIENDS GROUPSOF AND THE FAMILIES GRAND

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Family Friendly

An opportunity to enjoy the Arts together The Grand should be one of your family’s best friends!

The Grand Theatre will welcome you with a warm and friendly greeting, provide the best live entertainment, giving you an exciting family experience. With award-winning customer care and an understanding of children’s specific needs we will make your visit enjoyable rather than a huge tactical operation...

Group Packages at The Grand A visit to the Grand Theatre is a wonderful experience. We care about our groups and your planned event. Offering the very best in comfort following our re-seating, we have a commitment to you in making your visit a success.

Groups of 20+ make savings on theatre tickets, catering, tours and talks.

If you’ve never organised a group outing to The Grand, it really couldn’t be simpler. those who have, we hope to welcome you to this very special venue again soon.

“Our visit to The Grand, was frankly brilliant. Disembarking from our coach without having to cross lots of roads, and the performance, catering and warm welcome from the staff told us we had booked the right venue.” Mr N Fisher *Dependent upon size of group.

Cinderella Horrible Histories The BFG See show page for discounts

From browsing to booking, parking to performance we will be with you at every STAGE!

“Why can’t all theatre bookings be as simple to organise as yours?” Mr J Insole, Group Organiser

The benefits: • Discounted tickets • Payment in full one month prior to your visit* • Discounted ices and programmes • Priority booking line • Dedicated contact • Catering available • Local restaurant discounts • Dedicated web pages

Family Tickets are available on the following shows:

Group Offers are available of the following shows: Cinderella Murder With Love Spider’s Web An Inspector Calls Thriller Live Dreamboats and Petticoats Singin’ In The Rain My Fair Lady Dinnerladies

If you and your family are happy so are we... theatre is FUN for everyone!

For details on the Grand’s FREE Children’s Club visit The Matcham Monkey Club www.MatchamMonkey.co.uk Offering members: Free Membership card Free tickets Members’ Website and 20% off entrance to Blackpool Zoo VIP Invites A ‘Big Bash’ Birthday Event Terms and Conditions apply to membership.

Visit blackpoolgrand.co.uk or matchammonkey.co.uk

See show page for discounts Coming soon Blood Brothers Joseph Cabaret Visit us online at

blackpoolgrand.co.uk

49

MATCHAM MONKEY CLUB - www.MatchamMonkey.co.uk Blackpool’s best FREE children’s club. The Club offers: FREE theatre tickets; a membership card; VIP invites, an interactive website, special events and discount to Blackpool Zoo. Join online!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

FINDING FRIENDSOUT OF THE WHAT’S GRAND ON

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk - Send you selected Special Offers - Send you a reminder before our ‘very special’ monthly £10 tickets go on sale on our sister site www.showseats.co.uk What are you waiting for? Get texting ‘GRAND’ to 82055 and discover what’s on. Texts to 82055 cost 1 standard text message. Free on some service plans.

e-Newsletters How to discover ‘What’s On’ We have many ways to keep you updated with ‘What’s On’ at the Grand. Internet, text and email are all “new” media ways we can keep you informed.

Award-Winning Website

The Grand Theatre, Blackpool’s multi-award-winning website has scooped many accolades with its attractive design, offering the visitor an interesting and informative way of gaining information.

To celebrate three years at the top, exceeding 1.8 MILLION VISITORS since its conception, the Grand Theatre’s website shows why we are the number one entertainment site online.

Andrew Howard, eCommerce Manager said: “A huge amount of research and development goes into how our site should look visually for you and improving the ease of navigation around the site. Our aim is to keep pushing the theatre’s site forward developing a greater online customer service and experience.”

The Grand’s website also strives to be accessible to all. Click on www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk to learn more about your local theatre or to see what’s on.

DOWNLOAD THE GRAND THEATRE BROCHURE ONLINE at blackpoolgrand.co.uk You can also register for regular updates and newsletters.

SMS Text Alerts

Text GRAND to 82055 Find out What’s On this week at The Grand Theatre by texting ‘GRAND’ to 82055 and you will receive a text with further information

Be the first to hear about new shows, special events, news stories, features and more. Register for our monthly e-Newsletters by visiting www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

SHOWSEATS £10 Tickets!

Blackpool’s Grand Theatre is offering top-price tickets for just £10 for many of its finest productions.

The Grand Theatre, via its sister-site ShowSeats.co.uk will offer 10 top-priced seats for just £10 on the 10th of every month.

BIG SAVINGS!

Printed Brochure

You will see that our brochure has changed to a new size and we hope you like the changes. This change allows us to produce a new programme four times a year which will run as follows; January - April, April - July, July - September and September - December. We are to continuing to produce our pull-out planner which has been a huge sucess.

This will be distributed through the post to people on our database and will be available to collect from the Box Office.

You can also download the brochure and planner at www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk.

Be prepared, as you will only have 10 minutes to snap them up!

These specially-priced tickets cannot be purchased by phone.

Will you be one of the lucky 10 to grab a bargain?

Visit ShowSeats.co.uk every month on the 10th at 10am for great show deals.

Telephone

Our sales staff are on hand 364 days a year to assist you with your bookings or queries. We also offer a message service where you can leave your details and a ‘best time for you’ that we may return your call.

Phone 01253 290190.

IN ADDITION: - We will keep you informed on other events and shows at the Grand.

51

PARKING COULDN’T BE EASIER - SAVE UP TO £7.00 Opposite the Grand is the secure West Street Car Park. Book your parking ticket when you book your show tickets from the Box Office and park from 5.30pm until 12.30am for only £2.50! (Price correct at printing)

Visit us online at

blackpoolgrand.co.uk BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

APRIL

box office 01253 290190 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk Blackpool Operatic Players

My Fair Lady

Book and Lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner Music by Frederick Loewe Producer / Choreographer Steve Chesters Musical Director Jim Thomas Adapted from George Bernard Shaw’s play and Gabriel Pascal’s motion picture Pygmalion.

Following the resounding success of last year’s production of Oliver!, Blackpool Operatic Players return to the Grand Theatre with one of the greatest musicals, My Fair Lady.

With book, music and lyrics by musical maestros Lerner and Loewe, My Fair Lady is one of the longest running musicals of all time.

The misogynistic and snobbish phonetics professor Higgins agrees to a wager with his friend Colonel Pickering that he can take the common flower girl Eliza Doolittle and turn her into a presentable socialite.

Dates Wednesday 29th April to Saturday 2nd May Times Wednesday to Saturday at 7.30pm Thursday and Saturday Matinees at 2.00pm Tickets Opening Night Offer £12.00, £10.00 Thursday to Saturday Evenings £15.00, £14.00, £10.00 Thursday and Saturday Matinees £12.00, £10.00 Under 16s £10.00 Groups 10+ one additional free seat

Memorable songs include: Wouldn’t It Be Loverly The Rain In Spain I Could Have Danced All Night Get Me To The Church On Time On The Street Where You Live I’ve Grown Accustomed To Her Face.

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Musicscope & Stage Musicals Limited of New York Director of original production Moss Hart

53

SIGN UP TO OUR MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER AND BULLETINS Receive regular updates direct to your inbox. Be the first to hear about new shows, special events, news stories, features and more.

To register visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

LOOKING FORWARD

The Grand Theatre would like to introduce its new Directors The Grand Theatre 1894-2009 Proprietors Blackpool Grand Theatre Trust Limited David Coupe - Chairman Michael Muschamp FCA - Treasurer and Secretary Carl Carrington Professor Stuart Hampton-Reeves Katherine M Lee MA Gordon MacKeith FRIBA Alan Sears FCA Michelle Smith Operators Blackpool Grand Theatre (Arts & Entertainments) Limited David Coupe - Chairman Michael Muschamp FCA - Treasurer and Secretary Sue Arthur MA John Barnett MBE DL Ian Brookes John Buck Julie Gillespie BA Hons Philip McCandlish Anthony Stone LALAM Amanda Thompson Paul Walker Tony Williams Chief Executive & General Manager Neil Thomson – Chief Executive & General Manager (Licensee)

Dates Monday 25th to Saturday 30th May Times Monday at 8.00pm, Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm Wednesday and Saturday Matinees at 2.00pm

Twelve rounds of toast Bren!

dinnerladies

by Victoria Wood

Tickets £22.00, £20.00, £18.00, £16.00

Starring original BBC stars Andrew Dunn and Shobna Gulati Take one huge hit sitcom from BBC television. Place on a stage in a World Premiere national tour starring Andrew Dunn and Shobna Gulati from the cast of the television series. Blend in Victoria Wood’s writing undoubtedly some of the funniest on television, and whip into a play.

Based on the second TV series following the reluctant love story of Bren and Tony, egged on by Dolly, Jean, Twinkle and Anita. Mix in caretaker Stan’s words of wisdom and coat with regular appearances by Phillippa from Human Resources and Petula, Bren’s dreadful mother and you have a recipe for madness, mirth and twelve rounds of toast!

55

FIND OUT ‘WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK’ BY TEXT? Did you know you can text GRAND to 82055 at any time to find out what’s on at the Grand this week? It costs just one standard text and free on some price plans! We will also keep you up-to-date on offers!

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

Concession Matinees £4.00 off Evenings £2.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only Groups 20+ £3.00 off 50+ £4.00 off Dress Circle and Stalls seats only Friends £4.00 off Monday Dress Circle and Stalls seats only

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

BRILLIANT

09

M

Want to be the first to know when tickets go on sale?

Sign up to our email or text service

M ER

JUNE - JULY

MAGNIFICENT

20

BILL KENWRIGHT

Tuesday 4th to Sunday 23rd August

SU

THE MUSICAL FOR ALL TIME

Edinburgh Evening News

The Sunday Times

PRESENTS

BILL KENWRIGHT

BY ARRANGEMENT WITH THE REALLY USEFUL GROUP PRESENTS

LYRICS BY

MUSIC BY

TIM RICE ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER

57

SIGN UP TO OUR MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER AND BULLETINS Receive regular updates direct to your inbox. Be the first to hear about new shows, special events, news stories, features and more.

To register visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

PREVIOUS CAST

Want to be the first to know when tickets go on sale?

Sign up to our email or text service

PREVIOUS CAST

Monday 22nd June to Saturday 4th July

BOX OFFICE 01253 290190

GROUP SALES 01253 743232

Or if you can’t wait, visit our website for online booking 24/7 www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Monday 18th to Saturday 23rd May

Registered Office Address 33 Church Street, Blackpool, Lancashire FY1 1HT Box Office: 01253 290190 | Admin: 01253 290111 | Online: www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk Blackpool Grand Theatre (Arts & Entertainments) Ltd. Reg in England and Wales No. 2825229 Reg Charity No. 1022754 Blackpool Grand Theatre Trust Ltd. Reg in England and Wales No. 1323495 Reg Charity No. 506601

Brochure Design Andrew Howard Š 2008 Grand Theatre. All Rights Reserved Theatre Images Phil Harrison and Photogenics

Producers and others have granted permission or provided enclosed images and press quotes.

All informaion correct at time of going to press.

8

6

4

2

J

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25 27

26 24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

I

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

H

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

G

22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

F

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21

20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

E

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19

18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

D

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17

I H

28 26

30

G

28

32

30 32

F

26 26

30

20 22

26

30

24

28

32

26

34

18

22 24

28

32 34

16

20

26

B

18

22 24

1

3

5

7

9

8

6

4

2

C

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17

8

6

4

2

B

1

3

5

7

9

11 13

12 10

8

6

4

2

A

1

3

5

7

9

11 13

A 14

WC

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

14 12 10

16 14 12 10

C

20

24 26

28 30

D

22

28

32

E

24

28 30

32

WC

28 26 24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

21 19

15 15 17

16

33

27

31 29

29 27

25 21

21

20

31 29

27 25

19 19

18

25

23

31

27 25

23 21

17

29 29

23 23

C B

27 27

25

E D

A

gallery bar

I H G F

31 29

27 23

33 31

29

33

22 24

up p ci er rc le

F

E

28

WC 32

40

42

GRAND THEATRE

6

1

2

4

2

3

1

5

3

7

5

9

7

11 13

9

11 13

F

E

16 14

15

E

D

18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17

D

C

18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17

C

B

18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17

B

A

18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17

A

20

WC E D C 19

21 21

19 19 21

24

23 25 25

23 25

23

25

23 23

21

26

upper circle bar

21

19

B A

19

25

28

27

27

29 29

29

32

33

31 33 33

31 33

36

31

31

31

34

29

29

27 27

30

27

33 35

35

37

37

37

39 41

39 39

42

41

39

37

40

35

37

35 35

38

42

44

.c

43 43

41

45

41

WC

01253

290190

6

4

2

F

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19

8

6

4

2

E

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

8

6

4

2

D

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

C

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21

20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

B

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19

18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

A

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17

X

ci rc le O

B X O

B

dr es s X

33 31

35 37

33 35

31

39 37

35

36

37

WC WC

matchams bar

st al ls

38

Q

1

3

5

7

9

P

1

3

5

7

9 11 13 15 17

18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

O

1

3

5

7

9

22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

N

1

3

5

7

9

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

M

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

L

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

K

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

I

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

H

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

G

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

F

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

E

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

D

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

C

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

22 20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

B

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19 21

20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

A

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19

20 18 16 14 12 10

8

6

4

2

AA

1

3

5

7

9

11 13 15 17 19

J

1

1

3

3

5

5

7

7

9

9

B O X

33

34

X

29

O

O

31 29

27

B

26

X

B

29 27

25

32

36 38

27 25

23

30

34

25 23

21

28

32

21 19

22 24

dress circle bar

O

38

A

23

B

34 36

40

30

C B

20

24 26

28

32

A

22

26 28

30

B

B

C 24

WC

X

8

24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

O

10

26 24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10

24 22 20 18 16 14 12

B O X

ww

We

k p o o lg r a n d

8

4

uk

re

ar e h e

lac

38

40

12 10

6

o.

w

44

.b

36

38

40 42

34

36

38

36

32

34

36

8

22

26

30

32

34

32 34

22 24

26 28

30

A

20

22 24

28

30

28 30

B

20

22

24 26

C

20

20

22

24 26

D

18

12 10

11 13 15 17 19 21

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

box office

11 13 15 17 19 21 23

WC

seating plan

planner

ga lle ry

Visit our interactive seating plan online blackpoolgrand.co.uk You can select seats to see the exact view to the stage.

and information

Seating plan

How to find us

Booking info

conjunction with other offers. Concessions subject to availability and must be requested on booking.

Online 24hrs blackpoolgrand.co.uk Box Office 01253 290190 Groups & Schools 01253 743232

Should the number in your party fall below the minimum number in the price range, the price will alter accordingly to the relevant price.

An online and large-print version of this brochure is available at blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Opening times

Open from 10.00am daily. Times do vary on occasions please call 01253 290190 to confirm.

Grand Theatre, Church Street, Blackpool FY1 1HT.

Getting to us

By Car Nearest CCTV parking is West Street Car Park (British Home Stores), opposite the theatre.

Disabled Parking is also available near to the Grand Theatre in West Street Car Park, Market Street, Talbot Road and Queen Street (All within a few minutes walk).

SATNAV West Street Car park postcode FY1 1HA ‘Show and Park’ West Street Car Park tickets from the Grand Theatre. Only £2.50 (park 5.30pm to 12.30am. We recommend purchasing at time of booking theatre tickets as availability is limited.

Discounted car park tickets only available to purchase at the Box Office - acquire before parking.

By Bus Located 50 feet from most main bus links (British Home Stores). Blackpool Transport 01253 473000 or visit blackpooltransport.com.

Train Blackpool North Station is approximately five minutes walk; regular incoming direct services from Preston, Leeds, Manchester, and beyond. National Rail 08457 48 49 50 or visit nationalrail.co.uk.

Taxi Located 50 feet from the Grand Theatre entrance (Church Street). A free taxi phone is available in the theatre foyer.

Coach Nearest coach park is Gynn Square opposite the Savoy Hotel. Coaches must observe the requirements of our drop off and collection points. Strictly no parking in designated bus stops.

Ways to pay and fees

All major credit and debit cards accepted.

Credit card fee £1.50 per transaction. Debit cards no fee. Cheques made payable to Blackpool Grand Theatre. Online booking charge £1.00 per ticket.

Second class postage of tickets to mainland UK 60p, recorded £4.25.

Ticket agents

Lowther Pavilion, Blackpool Tourism (Promenade), TICs (Fleetwood, Cleveleys, Garstang, Preston), Wyreside Ecology Centre, County Information Service (Fleetwood), Lindum Hotel. Sales are subject to different Terms and Conditions.

Concessions

Apply to: Senior Citizens, Registered Disabled, Under 18s, Full-time Students, Registered Unemployed, Equity, BECTU and MU Members.

ID required when requesting concessions. Only one concession per ticket, and may not be used in

Groups and Schools

Gift Vouchers and Theatre Tokens

The perfect present, available in £5, £10 and £20.

Exchange and re-sale

Ticket exchange service £1.50 per ticket.

Tickets can be exchanged for another performance of the same production, not for other events. For an exchange tickets must be returned to the Box Office 3 days prior to the performance. Unable to use your tickets? We can try to re-sell them for a fee of 50p per ticket (at the patron’s risk). The theatre’s own available seats take priority.

Please check your tickets at the point of sale.

While every effort is made to provide accurate information on release of our brochure, changes to the programme do happen, please always check the website for the latest information.

ShowSeats.co.uk

Tickets purchased through ShowSeats.co.uk offer separate terms and conditions of booking and are non-refundable non-exchangeable.

Cash machines

Free (LINK) to use cash machines can be found close to the Grand Theatre; directly across from the main entrance is Abbey; two minutes walk along Church Street is Halifax.

Text

Sign up then receive free mobile text alerts from the Grand Theatre.

• FREE Exclusive ticket offers • FREE Reminders • FREE Show News and Events Text ‘GRAND’ to 82055. (1 std txt msg to join)

eBulletins

Sign up on our website for regular special offers: www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Access

For performance listings of Audio Described and BSL Sign Interpreted performances please contact the Box Office 01253 290190.

Grand Theatre (Stalls - level access Matcham’s Bar, rear of the building. Chairlift to the Dress Circle.).

Lawrence House Studio (fully accessible).

Induction loops and Infra-red headsets fitted to both areas. (Box Office - £5.00 refundable deposit).

Access unisex toilets available in the Grand Theatre (Stalls) and Lawrence House Studio.

Registered Assistance dogs are welcome.

All front of house and box office staff have attended disability and deaf awareness training.

Baby changing facilities available.

Advise on booking of any special requirements.

Full Terms and Conditions are on our website.

january - april 2009

your pull-out planner 3.00pm 7.00pm

2.00pm 7.00pm

2.00pm 7.00pm

Nutcracker Coppélia

Box Office - Open Daily 01253 290190

3.00pm

ShowSeats 10 @ 10

Schools Open

New Year’s Day

Murder With Love

Circus of Horrors

7.30pm

Burlesque Workshop

8.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

8.00pm

2.30pm 7.00pm

The BFG

10.30am 10.30am 10.30am 11.00am 1.30pm 1.30pm 2.00pm

7.00pm 6.00pm

April Fool’s Day

1.30pm 7.30pm

Opera della Luna

7.30pm

ShowSeats 10 @ 10

An Inspector Calls 2.00pm 7.30pm

2.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

2.00pm 7.30pm

Box Office - Open Daily 01253 290190

7.30pm

Grand Ghost Tour 8pm

Schools ALIVE!

7.00pm 7.00pm

7.00pm

Miss Behave Variety Nighty 7.00pm

Dreamboats and Petticoats

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

Schools Close

2.00pm 7.30pm

7.30pm

2.00pm 7.30pm

8.00pm 7.30pm

7.30pm

Good Friday ShowSeats 10 @ 10

St Patrick’s Day

Basil Brush

1.00pm 4.00pm

7.30pm Valantine’s Day

Schools Close

Easter Monday

8.00pm

Puccini Turandot

7.30pm

2.00pm 7.30pm World Poetry Day

2.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

2.00pm 7.30pm

programme

Schools Open

Solid Silver 60s Show

7.30pm

Box Office - Open Daily 01253 290190 Schools Open

blackpoolgrand.co.uk box office 01253 290190 group and school line 01253 743232

online 24hrs

Spider’s Web 2.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

2.00pm 7.30pm

The BFG

7.00pm St Andrew’s Day

World Theatre Day

From Saturday 10th January and then the second Saturday of every month The Play’s the Thing play reading group 1.30pm (Play Reading Group 1.30 pm) From Monday 2nd February and then the first Monday of every other month Burlesque Dance Workshop with Bella Besame 7.00pm to 9.00pm (Burlesque Workshop 7.00pm) From Monday 2nd March and then the first Monday of every other month Something Wicked this Way Comes 8.00pm to 10.00pm (Open Mic Adult Cabaret 8.00 pm)

grand

7.30pm

Mother’s Day

Singin’ In The Rain 2.00pm 7.30pm

7.30pm

Grand Ghost Coach Trip 7pm

8.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

2.00pm 7.30pm

Feast of G&S 2

Verdi Aida

Box Office - Open Daily 01253 290190

7.30pm

Variety Live

7.30pm 7.30pm

7.30pm

Thriller Live!

Gordon Smith

Red Nose Day Grand Ghost Coach Trip 7pm

Pasadena Roof Orch

Giselle

ShowSeats 10 @ 10

Horrible Histories

10.30am 10.30am 10.30am

1.30pm 1.30pm 7.00pm 7.00pm

1.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

St George’s Day

dates to remember

Cinderella

My Fair Lady

2.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

2.00pm 7.30pm

January New Year’s Day 1 January Schools open 5 January

World Poetry Day 21 March Mother’s Day 22 March World Theatre Day 27 March

February Valentine’s Day 14 February Schools close 16 February Schools open 23 February

April April Fool’s Day 1 April Schools close 6 April Good Friday 10 April Matcham Monkey’s Birthday 11 April Easter Monday 13 April Schools open 20 April St George’s Day 23 April

March St David’s Day 1 March Red Nose Day 13 March St Patrick’s Day 17 March