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BOX OFFICE: 0117 902 0344 WWW.TOBACCOFACTORYTHEATRE.COM
ON SALE DATES MAY – A
Welcome
Although there hasn’t been much sun for a while now, we have a sizzling season in store this summer at the Tobacco Factory Theatre. We welcome two of our favourite annual festivals, the utterly sublime Mayfest (“programming tasty enough to make you want to move to Bristol permanently” The Guardian) and the utterly hysterical Brouhaha, which programmes the greatest concentration of comedians to be found this side of Edinburgh. We look forward to huge, era-spanning, meaty stories Hot Air and The Dug Out alongside a range of distinctive, idiosyncratic and well-loved artists such as Daniel Kitson, Molly Naylor and Murray Lachlan Young. Hot Air and The Dug Out are brought to us by brilliant Bristol companies Myrtle and Splice: we’re also delighted to welcome the next generation of Bristol talent with emerging companies Blue Brook (Horace: King of Keynsham) and Living Spit (Henry VIII). As ever, we have fine family shows both for the very young with The Elves and the Shoemaker and The Magical Playground and for all the family, with the hysterically silly Le Navet Bete (Napoleon). Finally we are thrilled to welcome back two of our favourite companies, for all-too-brief visits, OperaUpClose with a stripped down Tosca and Little Bulb with Squally Showers.
UG 2013 Fans & Busin ess Club Priority Boo king 03 April 10am General Boo king 05 April 10am
A sizzling summer and we hope to see you down here!
Ali Robertson Director
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WHAT WE DO The Tobacco Factory Theatre produces and presents excellent art in unique, intimate and visceral spaces. We present a jam-packed programme in both the Factory and Brewery Theatres of diverse and exciting shows, workshops and events, from international comedy acts to opera, family shows to modern classics and timeless masterpieces, plus an extensive TF+ programme of events and activities for audiences, artists and young people. Talk to us : facebook.com/bristoltheatre @tftheatre
“I love the TFT – I would come every week if I had time!” 2013 Audience Survey
“What an excellent standard TFT is setting” Elinor Edwards, Fan
“The Tobacco Factory has become an essential theatre” Susannah Clapp, The Observer
Design pelotondesign.co.uk Print eclipseprinting.co.uk Illustration P32–33 josephrobertsillustration.co.uk Tobacco Factory Arts Trust Registered Company no: 04536120 Registered Charity no: 1097542
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HOW TO FInD Us Both theatres are situated just south of the river in the heart of bustling Southville. Tobacco Factory Theatre Raleigh Road, Southville, Bristol BS3 1TF
BY FOOT
The Brewery Theatre 291 North Street, Southville, Bristol BS3 1JP
We are just a 15 minute walk from the Centre (Arnolfini/MShed area) and a 30 minute walk from Bristol Temple Meads and Bedminster train stations.
(NB Tickets for shows at both the Factory Theatre and the Brewery Theatre must be collected from the Tobacco Factory Theatre Box Office)
BY BUs
Bus numbers 25 or 24 from North Bristol, Broadmead, the City Centre and Redcliffe hill stop outside the Tobacco Factory. Currently the last bus leaves at 10.42pm Monday – Sunday from outside Aldi.
BY BIkE
Both theatres are very accessible by bike from all areas of Bristol and we have bike racks inside the Tobacco Factory, on the wall of the Factory, on the corner of Raleigh Road and North Street and outside The Brewery. TOBACCO FACTORY THEATRE
BREWERY THEATRE
02 BOx OFFiCE 0117 902 0344
PARkInG
There is plenty of on street parking in the surrounding area and an Aldi supermarket car park next door usable, strictly after 7pm, but please note: at the time of print Aldi has a 2 hour parking restriction if you park before 7pm with a 4 hour no return period and a hefty £70 fine!
WHERE TO FInD WHAT
With so many shows to choose from at the Tobacco Factory and Brewery Theatres, we’ve split this brochure up into sections so you can easily find what you’re looking for.
COMEDY: PAGEs 24 – 27
sHOWs: PAGEs 04 – 23
MAYFEsT: PAGEs 06 – 09
FAMIlY: PAGE 28
COMInG sOOn: PAGEs 29 – 31 TF+: PAGEs 32 – 33
EARlY BOOkInG OFFERs THE MAGIC FlUTE OPERA PROJECT
sPECIAl OFFERs!
Look out for these offers and symbols as you look through the brochure:
£9
£5 & £9 Tickets We’re offering some Brewery show Opening nights at £5 and some Factory show Previews at £9 this season, as indicated on show pages by these symbols.
BC
Business Club 241 Tickets Business Club members can get 2 for 1 tickets to certain shows in the season, as indicated on show pages by this symbol. See calendar for date restrictions. Book early as this offer is subject to availability. See P35 to find out how to join our Business Club.
Tue 15 – Sat 26 October Book by 01 June and save up to £5 See P30 for details.
THE lAsT vOYAGE OF sInBAD THE sAIlOR ChRiSTMAS 2013
Wed 27 November 2013 – Sun 12 January 2014 Book by 01 August and save £5 See P31 for details.
F
Fans 241 Tickets Fans who join by Direct Debit get 2 for 1 tickets to certain shows in the season, as indicated on show pages by this symbol. See calendar for date restrictions. Book early as this offer is subject to availability. See P34 to find out how to become a Fan. WWW.TOBACCOFACTORYThEATRE.COM 03
The Incomers
TF+
w Talk Post-sho rclass & Maste e g Pa 33 The Bear
04 Box Office 0117 902 0344
Tue 07 – Thu 09 May 8.15pm Venue Brewery Theatre
Fri 10 & Sat 11 May 8.15pm Venue Brewery Theatre
THE INCOMERS
The Bear
WINDSWEPT PRODUCTIONS
angela Clerkin in Co-Production with Improbable
Written by Murray Lachlan Young Directed by Paul Jepson
A taut, tense and funny show about an everyday murder and A hideously funny black farce in which a mythical bear. four friends are slowly stripped of all Angela is a solicitor’s clerk. She works with the defence team during criminal trials. The job brings her face to face their pretensions and secrets until with people accused of GBH, rape and murder. nothing is left but the truth. A full moon rises over a windswept cottage in the middle of nowhere. Children are in bed, wine is breathing nicely and the dinner is in the oven. It’s Gordon and Celia’s wedding anniversary and they’ve asked their oldest and dearest friends Zach and Jane down from London. The only problem is that Zach and Jane aren’t Zach and Jane anymore. Jane has gone and Julia – the 25 year old, French burlesque dancer, has taken her place. What starts as a simple celebration quickly unravels with one revelation after another until we become aware that no one has been telling the truth to anyone about anything for a very long time. Written entirely in his characteristic verse by BBC 6 Music poet in residence Murray Lachlan Young, The Incomers will have you gasping and roaring with laughter in equal measures!
In the cells under the Old Bailey, Angela meets her client who is on trial for murder. “I didn’t do it.” He says. “The Bear did it.” He’s obviously lying. Or mad. This is London after all. But when she examines all the evidence, reads all the files, there it is again. The Bear. Someone else saw it. Without quite knowing why, Angela finds herself hunting The Bear. Until she discovers The Bear is hunting her. The Bear is directed by Lee Simpson and designed by Tony & Olivier award-winning designer Rae Smith (National Theatre’s War Horse), with performances by Improbable Associate Artists Angela Clerkin and Guy Dartnell. Experience this film noir thriller with added beartastic facts and revenge songs. “Improbable...is one of the most energising and provocative forces in British theatre” The Guardian
“A Noel Coward for the Noel Gallagher generation” The Times (on Murray Lachlan Young)
Angela, Guy and Lee all performed in Improbable’s Lifegame: “Truly fantastic theatre – spontaneous, unique, universal and mythological” The Guardian
“Simply brilliant – hysterically funny and strangely moving” Claudia Winkleman (on Murray Lachlan Young)
“War Horse was beautifully designed by Rae Smith” New York Times
“The best since Betjeman” Neil Tennant (on Murray Lachlan Young)
Angela Clerkin in co-production with Improbable, in association with Ovalhouse.
Produced in association with Beaford Arts and North Devon Theatres.
Running time 1hr 20mins
Running time 2hrs (inc. interval) Age recommendation 14+
Simon Harvey-Williams Darkstuff Productions BECKY LANE TFT Marketing Manager
If it’s written by Murray Lachlan Young, it’s going to be great!
Tickets Full £11 / Concession £8
Being a fan of Hitchcock and classic film noir I can’t wait to see what promises to be a thriller with a difference!
Tickets Full £11 / Concession £8 www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com 05
AYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAY
The Factory and Brewery Theatres welcome back Mayfest in its tenth year, promising another ten days of astonishing theatre. This year’s highlights include the return of John Moran to the Brewery Theatre, with his unique and electrifying brand of sound composition, and Belarus Free Theatre return to the Factory with their new show Trash Cuisine, following the electrifying success of last year’s Minsk 2011: A Reply to Kathy Acker. The beauty of the festival programme is that you can see a 6pm show at the Brewery Theatre and still catch a later show at the Factory Theatre, Bristol Old Vic, or another Mayfest venue. You can also join in the discussion at the late-night hang out, The Blind Tiger at Bristol Old Vic. You never know what you might find there. And don’t miss part two of Andy Field’s epic three-part disaster movie for the stage Zilla, taking place at the Brewery Theatre on 19 May. For more information about Zilla, plus up-to-date news on Mayfest and the rest of the programme go to mayfestbristol.co.uk where you can sign up to the email list, or follow Mayfest on Twitter @mayfestbristol Mayfest is produced by MAYK in collaboration with Bristol Old Vic and in association with partners across the city. Funded by Arts Council England.
6 Box 06 BoxOffice Office0117 0117902 9020344 0344
“Few festivals sizzle quite so deliciously as Mayfest, which always succeeds in feeling both very local and completely universal” The Guardian
YFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFE
Fri 17 & Sat 18 May 6pm Signed performance Sat 18 May Venue Brewery Theatre
Tue 21 – Thu 23 May 6pm Venue Brewery Theatre
Fri 24 & Sat 25 May 6pm Venue Brewery Theatre
GOODBYE FLÂNEURS THAILAND
GYM PARTY MADE IN CHINA
Jenna Watt
In 2010 Jenna’s friend was the victim of a violent attack. Discovering that there were bystanders at the scene, Jenna began to explore why we choose to intervene or not and asks whether ‘one punch is enough’ to provoke an intervention. Flâneurs is a new piece of theatre that attempts to deconstruct the ‘bystander effect’, which states that ‘the larger the crowd the less likely it is than anyone will intervene.’ “An affable, generous, and beguiling performance, it packs a punch” The Herald Winner Scotsman Fringe First Award 2012
(PORTRAIT OF EYE)
John Moran
Renowned New York Composer/ Choreographer, John Moran returns to Mayfest to present the final in a series of theatrical portraits. Goodbye Thailand (Portrait of Eye) presents the story of Eye, a 19 year old in Bangkok who struggles to find a safe place for herself. John Moran is known for creating theatre performances which are fascinating to watch and unique in the way that they fuse precise choreography and sound. For this performance, Moran is accompanied live by composer and electronic musician Daniel Williams, who contributes his improvisational sensibilities to this work, in his and Moran’s first collaboration together. “I am convinced that there is no more important composer working today, than John Moran” Philip Glass
Tickets Full £10 / Concession £7
Tickets Full £10 / Concession £7
These are the brains of Those Who Have Passed. Those who could not keep up. Those who lost, the disqualified, the eliminated-from-heats, group stages and knockout rounds. The dead: the dead-to-us-now. Amidst the litter of brains of Those Who Have Passed, Jess, Chris and Ira vie for success. Gym Party is the new show from Made In China; at once a delicate and violent three-way contest and a hilariously confused call-to-arms. It will explore the psychology of winning and the nature of pride: the desire to be and get the most, in all its triumphant and ugly incarnations. “Not since Forced Entertainment burst on to the scene almost 30 years ago has a company arrived with such a fully formed and distinctive voice” The Guardian Gym Party is presented here as a work-in-progress showing. Participation in awkward teenage dance following the performance is optional. Commissioned by and developed at Battersea Arts Centre. A Pulse, Mayfest, Sprint and Sampled co-commission. Developed with support from the National Theatre Studio and the Almeida Theatre. Funded by Arts Council England.
Tickets Full £10 / Concession £7 www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com07 7
AYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAY
Cooking Ghosts
Trash Cuisine
8 Box 08 BoxOffice Office0117 0117902 9020344 0344
YFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFEST/MAYFE Tue 21 – Thu 23 May 8pm Venue Factory Theatre
COOKING GHOSTS BEADY EYE THEATRE
Devised by Kristin Fredricksson, Georgina Roberts, Seiriol Davies and Helen Mugridge Sound by Elena Peña
Winter, 1974. A little girl waits for her mother to come home with a new baby. Its twins! Summer comes and the three girls are caught on cinefilm, playing in the garden. Cooking Ghosts is the moving story of a woman who has no choice but to leave her children. A tale of tenderness and laughter turns to sadness and confusion, and the children abruptly lose their innocence. In this surreal and raucous show, an attempt to understand the past becomes a daring journey through the veils of memory that yields surprises and awakens ghosts. Cooking Ghosts is a brand new show from Total Theatre Award Winners, Beady Eye Theatre. It fuses visual storytelling, puppetry, archive film footage and a specially composed score in a creation that asks: Is it possible to find joy again when the worst happens? “An emotionally acute piece of performance that is moving but not sentimental... A delicate patchwork of visual storytelling that is at times breathtaking” The Stage “Haunting, inventive... jumbles playful experimentation with a fine thread of elegy... heartfelt in the writing and startling in the realisation’ Time Out Co-produced with South Street Reading, Farnham Maltings, The Point Eastleigh and the Showroom Chichester. With support from Little Angel Theatre, London, the Puppet Centre Trust and Theatre Royal Margate.
Running time approx. 1hr 15mins Age recommendation 12+
Fri 24 & Sat 25 May 8pm Matinee Sat 2pm Venue Factory Theatre
TRASH CUISINE BELARUS FREE THEATRE
Following their incredible performance of Minsk, 2011: A Reply to Kathy Acker as part of Mayfest 2012, Belarus Free Theatre returns with an inventive and moving drama where food becomes a multi-faceted metaphor for life, death, morality and human endurance. Using live music, choreography, stunning visual imagery and acting talent from Belarus, the U.S.A, the UK and Australia, Trash Cuisine explores issues behind imprisonment and torture with particular focus on the death penalty, in a dynamic, affecting and nerve shredding performance. Hugely well received at its première in Amsterdam in October 2012, this innovative piece of theatre was devised and developed from first degree research collected in Asia, Africa, U.S. and Europe by Belarus Free Theatre with the support of Amnesty International. This is a rare opportunity to experience a provocative and heartbreaking show from the bravest theatre company in the world. Please note, Belarus Free Theatre’s travel to the UK for this performance is currently subject to funding. “Trash Cuisine was a powerful and bold study of capital punishment” Huffington Post “This is world-class theatre, built on the guts of raw experience” Dominic Cavendish (on Belarus Free Theatre) “Belarus Free Theatre completely shook me out of myself. Beautiful. Life-affirming. Full of fight and hope” Audience member (on Belarus Free Theatre) Trash Cuisine is presented in co-production with the Young Vic and is supported by LIFT. It was developed with the support of the European Cultural Foundation and Amnesty International.
Running Time 1hr 40mins Age recommendation 14+
Kate Yedigaroff Mayfest Co-Artistic Director
ANDY BAMFORD Thirty Three, TFT Business Club
This is like being in a treasure chest full of theatrical magic. They manage a rare thing of exploring the saddest of places with great sass, wit and a lightness of touch.
I thoroughly enjoyed BFT’s last performance here. It was thought provoking, engaging, powerful and enjoyable all at the same time.
Tickets Full £12 / Concession £8
Tickets Full £13 / Concession £9 www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com09 9
Tosca
Napoleon: A Defence
10 Box Office 0117 902 0344
Thu 16 – Sat 18 May 8pm Venue Factory Theatre
BC See P03
TOSCA OPERAUPCLOSE
Following their fresh and wildly successful production of La Bohème here in July 2012, Olivier award-winning OperaUpClose returns to the Factory Theatre with another Puccini masterpiece – Tosca. In a new English version by Adam Spreadbury-Maher, with a new orchestration by Danyal Dhondy and design by Nina Fransson, we are transported to 1989 East Germany. Tosca is sensual, powerful and vulnerable. Living in the shadow of the Berlin Wall, she is the toast of the GDR elite, until her lover Cavaradossi helps a political prisoner to escape, putting Tosca at the mercy of Stasi chief Scarpia. Puccini’s tautest drama is given a radical yet affectionate re-working, set in the dying days of the East German regime and stripping the story to its most essential elements. A cast of just five singers and a trio of piano, clarinet and cello brings OperaUpClose’s trademark intimacy and immediacy to this tale of love, lust and the corrupting influence of power while retaining all of the emotional impact of the original. “OperaUpClose has the knack of cutting operas down to size without mislaying their passion… OperaUpClose productions simultaneously guy opera and fall under its spell” Evening Standard “Another jewel in the crown of OperaUpClose” Ham & High
“If you’ve never seen opera live, this is a perfect place to start” Broadway World Running time 2hr 10mins (inc. interval)
Tue 28 May – Sat 01 June 7.15pm Matinee Sat 2.15pm Venue Brewery Theatre
BC See P03
NAPOLEON: A DEFENCE LE NAVET BETE
An hilarious, roller-coaster ride through actual and imagined history, Napoleon: A Defence will take you to places you thought you knew, then turn them upside down and inside out so you don’t know where the laughter is coming from. The ever-cunning Napoleon is being pursued across Europe by the elite British task force of Major Blunt, Duke Welly and Sweet William. But fear not, as their plan has been intercepted by a group of French misfits, hell-bent on saving their emperor. With special guest appearances from Josephine and a whole host of ridiculous characters that probably shouldn’t be there, prepare yourself to delve into the truth behind the Napoleonic Wars. Le Navet Bete (Zemblanity, Serendipity, Clowns At War) make collaborative theatre which overflows with creativity and fun. Napoleon: A Defence is a comedy show for all the family, featuring live music, physical theatre, clowning, a ship, a cannon and some beautiful costumes. “These guys are just nuts. Brilliantly, terribly, incredibly nuts!” BBC “…a show all the family will enjoy – whether it’s the children laughing at stage-combat punches, or dad chuckling at a witty quip from the cast…” Fringe Guru Running time 1hr 5mins Age recommendation Laughs for adults, kids and teens alike
Ali Robertson TFT Director
Tosca’s a brilliant opera but can be forbiddingly ‘high art’. OperaUpClose makes it utterly contemporary and engaging. I saw this in London and loved it.
DAVID LOCKWOOD Bike Shed Theatre
These clowns have the enviable quality of appealing equally to people who hate theatre as those who love it.
Tickets £20 (x10 concessions at £10 are available per show
Tickets Full £11 / Concession £8 / Opening night £5
for under 21s. Must be booked in person and have proof of age.)
(no conc Fri / Sat eve)
www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com 11
12 Box Office 0117 902 0344
Thu 30 May – Sat 15 June 8pm (no show Sun) Matinee Sat 2.30pm Venue Factory Theatre
£9 F BC See P03
THE DUG OUT SPLICE THEATRE
Park Street, 1944: A black GI is shot dead. Park Street, 1974: An IRA bomb explodes. Tick-tock-tick-tock-tick-tock-tick. One more hour you’ll never get back. One more night passes and nothing has changed. The future is now, man, it’s now, man, it’s now. And what are you doing with it, ’ey? Splice Theatre (Under Milk Wood, Sus) returns to the Tobacco Factory Theatre with an exciting, original new play inspired by the legendary Bristol nightclub, The Dug Out. Based on real-life events, this is an uplifting tale of black and white teenage clubbers in the 1970s, set against a classic love story of thirty years earlier. Playwright Amanda Whittington (The Wills’s Girls) cleverly fuses two defining moments in Bristol’s social history. A live DJ splices 70s ska, reggae and funk with 40s black American jive and a professional cast are joined by a local community chorus of ‘Young Clubbers’. So for clubbers young and old, it’s time to get down to The Dug Out: where allegiances are made, battles are fought, the past is present, the future is now and we’re all united by the music. “F**k me, but this is good: 90 minutes of sleeves-up, no-nonsense drama… you’d be hard-pressed to find fault” Venue (on Sus) “An affecting reworking…Dylan Thomas, you sense, would have approved” Guardian (on Under Milk Wood) Age recommendation 12+
T F+
w Talk Post-sho See P33
QUEEN BEE Bristol DJ
The music alone would make me go to see this show!
Tickets Thu 30 & Fri 31 All tickets £9 Mon – Thu (& Sat 2.30pm) Full £14 / Concession £11 Fri & Sat 8pm All tickets £15 www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com 13
Moonfleet
The Rivals
14 Box Office 0117 902 0344
Mon 17 & Tue 18 June 7.30pm Venue Factory Theatre
MOONFLEET BRISTOL OLD VIC THEATRE SCHOOL
Tue 25 – Sat 29 June 7.30pm Matinee Thu & Sat 2.30pm Venue Factory Theatre
THE RIVALS BRISTOL OLD VIC THEATRE SCHOOL
Based on the book by J. Meade Falkner Adapted by Stephanie Dale Original music by Tim Laycock Directed by Kim Durham
Smugglers, shipwrecks, a haunted crypt, hidden treasure, vengeance and enduring love are the ingredients of J. Meade Falkner’s classic tale Moonfleet, brought vividly to life in Bristol Old Vic Theatre School’s latest West Country touring production. Set on the Dorset coast in the village of Moonfleet, orphan John Trenchard is captivated by the story of the ghostly Blackbeard and his lost treasure. His search leads him to high adventure with smugglers, the revenue men, and eventually to love. As gripping a yarn as Treasure Island, Moonfleet has enthralled generations with its fast-moving and breathtaking drama. This is a new, literary adaptation written especially for Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and with an original score by Tim Laycock. Running time 2hrs 30mins (inc. interval)
Directed by Christopher Scott
Bristol Old Vic Theatre School’s International Acting Course presents Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s uproarious comedy of manners, The Rivals. Young Captain Absolute, son and heir of wealthy Sir Anthony, arrives in Bath to court the rich and lovely Lydia Languish. His ploy, to appeal to her romantic nature by appearing as ‘penniless’ Ensign Beverley, backfires when he discovers Lydia prefers an elopement with Beverley to a marriage with Absolute! But what of her fortune? And what will Lydia’s censorious Aunt, Mrs Malaprop, say about all this? “Sure if I reprehend anything in this world, it is the use of my oracular tongue, and a nice derangement of epitaphs”. For an hilarious and witty comedy, come meet The Rivals. Surely “never was anything better perpetrated”. “Quick, witty and full of verve…you would be foolish to miss this play” Bristol Theatre Review (on last year’s The Rover) Running time 2hrs 30mins (inc. interval)
Alex Milward TFT Intern
SIMON INCH TFT Fanbassador
From the student actors to directors, stage managers, technicians and designers, this is a fantastic opportunity to catch some of the bright young things of British theatre.
The game here is a theatrical one of love and laughter. Sheridan’s classic comedy is a perfect play for the latest crop of Theatre School talent.
Tickets Full £15 / Concession £10
Tickets Full £15 / Concession £10 www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com 15
Diary Of A Madman
My Robot Heart
16 Box Office 0117 902 0344
Fri 05 & Sat 06 July 8.15pm Venue Brewery Theatre
BC See P03
DIARY OF A MADMAN LIVING PICTURES
By Nikolai Gogol Directed by Sinéad Rushe Performed by Robert Bowman
Driven insane by government bureaucracy and hierarchy, Gogol’s dark comedy exposes one man’s reality spiralling deeper into a surreal fantasy world. 1830s Russia. Poprishchin is in his 40’s – a low ranking civil servant for the Government, struggling to make his mark on life, but one day he makes an amazing discovery. Could he really be the next King of Spain? Considered by many to be Gogol’s best work, Diary of a Madman is set in St Petersberg, among the petty repressed Civil service of Tsarist Russia. Directed by Sinéad Rushe (Olivier Award nominee) this one man show, performed by Robert Bowman (Sherman Cymru, Bristol Old Vic, RSC) is a timeless piece that explores the human condition when it comes face to face with it’s own mortality. “Robert Bowman perfectly encapsulates a range of emotions as we watch him unravel before our eyes and head deeper and deeper into a fantasy world” Western Mail “...raw power and intensity” Nick Capaldi, Chief Executive Arts Council for Wales, Western Mail
Thu 11 – Sat 13 July 8.15pm Venue Brewery Theatre
See P03
MY ROBOT HEART SHOW AND TELL
Molly Naylor presents a warm, beguiling and poignant storytelling show with music from folky duo The Middle Ones. Inspired by experiments about love using robots in Japan, Molly offers the tale of three generations of one family and an impending wedding. Together they explore the meanings of love and fear, and the relationship between the two. Molly wrote the acclaimed Whenever I Get Blown Up I Think Of You, which was adapted for BBC Radio 4 and she also devised the interactive storytelling project Made Up in collaboration with Byron Vincent, which was part of Mayfest 2012. “Brave, funny, tough and beautiful writing” The Guardian “Hearteningly vivid and acutely observed” The Times “This show sees theatre, live music and stand-up comedy in perfect harmony – never more one than the other – making it an ideal triptych of entertainment” Metro “A funny, touching, sad and life affirming piece of theatre” The Scotsman Running time 1hr Age recommendation 12+
“This is exceptional work precise, committed and terribly moving” Katie Mitchell, Associate Director National Theatre (on a Living Pictures performance) This project is supported with a grant from Arts Council Wales.
Running time 1hr 20mins
Andrea Hodges Drama lecturer, Cardiff and Vale College
A powerful performance that takes the audience on an exhilarating and emotional journey.
Tickets Full £11 / Concession £8
Mel Scaffold Producer, Theatre Bristol
Gorgeous lo-fi indie music woven around interlocking tales of love – having seen the work-in-progress this should be a real treat.
Tickets Full £11 / Concession £8 / Opening night £5 www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com 17
Squally Showers
The Six Wives of Henry VIII
18 Box Office 0117 902 0344
Sun 21 July 8pm Venue Factory Theatre
SQUALLY SHOWERS LITTLE BULB THEATRE
Mon 22 – Sat 27 July 8.15pm Matinee Sat 2.15pm Venue Brewery Theatre
BC See P03
THE SIX WIVES OF HENRY Viii LIVING SPIT
Following their smash hits Crocosmia, Operation Greenfield and The Marvellous and Unlikely Fete of Little Upper Downing, Little Bulb return with their latest offering, a visually and physically compelling exploration of being a young adult in the 1980s. It’s the decade of all or nothing and a magical storm is gathering pace… Told with exciting choreography, music and bizarre characters, Squally Showers is a fantastical balletic farce of politics and power, loneliness and love. Brought to you by Total Theatre, Fringe First, Arches Brick and Herald Angel award-winning ensemble Little Bulb Theatre. “Recklessly talented…insanely brave” Lyn Gardner, The Guardian (on Operation Greenfield) “This genuinely original, charmingly offbeat company has well and truly earned its wings” Time Out (on Operation Greenfield) Created and performed by Little Bulb Theatre. Commissioned and produced by Farnham Maltings. Supported by The Garage, Norwich and National Theatre Studio.
Running time 1hr 15 mins Age recommendation 14+
Two actors. Too many characters. One big ego. Howard Coggins looks like Henry VIII. There’s no escaping that. Stu McLoughlin doesn’t really look like any of the wives, but he’s going to give it a go. After their previous self-funded two-man historical drama is savaged in the press, Howard (Bristol Old Vic) and Stu (Kneehigh) are at their wits end. Then they hit upon an idea for a show that could change everything... But can two of the South West’s favourite theatrical sons put aside their differences and make it through to the end without killing each other? The Six Wives of Henry VIII was a sell-out hit at the Bristol Old Vic in 2012, and this is the last chance to see the show before a national tour. With live original music, embroidery, barbie dolls, silly songs and historical hysteria, this promises to be an ill-researched lesson in cross-dressing Tudor history that you’ll never forget. “Brilliant comic acting...honest, unpretentious, beautifully scripted comedy” Venue “Cleverly written, beautifully acted, and, dare I say it, educational. Howard and Stu are a double act to keep a beady eye on...both actors perform with bounds of enthusiasm, wit and technical skill; their versatility and range is outstanding” The Post “Hysterically funny...left me with aching cheeks from laughing so much” StageWon Running time 1hr 15mins Age recommendation 12+
Sally Cookson Director RUSTI MACAPAGAL TFT Administrator
With their energetic, playful and fun work with music and characterisation, Little Bulb leave you smiling and wanting more!
Tickets Full £12 / Concession £8
‘Bert and Ernie’, ‘Batman and Robin’, ‘Fred and Ginger’ and of course ‘Howard and Stu’, who go together like yin and yang – a match made in heaven!
Tickets Full £11 / Concession £8 / Opening night £5 (no conc. Fri or Sat eve)
www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com 19
Art work by Dave McGibbon
20 Box Office 0117 902 0344
Thu 25 July – Sat 10 August 8pm (no show Sun) £9 F BC See P03 Matinee Thu 01 & 08 and Sat 2.30pm Signed performance Wed 31 July Relaxed performance Thu 01 August 2.30pm (see P33) Venue Factory Theatre
HOT AIR MYRTLE THEATRE
Six o’clock on a summer’s morning, flying out over the countryside and it’s just…peaceful…beautiful. In this basket you’ve got three-sixty vision. It gives you amazing perspective… and freedom. Gaze down at the people below and you think “look at them scurrying about down there… poor sods”. It’s International Fiesta time and the balloonists take to the air for the flight of their lives. Ride the highs and lows of the dream-making process. From balloon factory machinist to Sky God, meet the real people that make it happen. Glimpse into the lives of those stuck on the ground looking up for inspiration and hoping that the other Cameron, in Westminster, isn’t talking a lot of hot air! Whether you have been up there yourself, crave the hubbub of the Fiesta or just love watching from afar, Bristol-based Myrtle Theatre’s Hot Air is a touching, funny and beautiful piece of theatre and music that celebrates Bristol people and one of its most legendary industries. “It is rare that a piece of theatre moves, amuses, and challenges in equal measure. Myrtle Theatre manages all three in a seemingly effortless blend of stark realism, modern myth and musical theatre” guardian.co.uk (on City of One)
T F+
for Activities ple o e P g Youn See P32
Based on an original concept by Heather Williams, written by Mike Akers, inspired by the ballooning community and the people of Bristol. Supported using public funding by Arts Council England
Age recommendation Adults and children 12+ DAVID DEWHURST TFT Director of Operations
T F+
Activities nces for Audie 3 P See 3
Myrtle produce moving, thought provoking work full of humour. I saw a very early rehearsal of this last year and have been looking forward to it ever since.
Tickets Thu 25 & Fri 26 July All tickets £9 Mon – Thu (& Sat 2.30pm) Full £14 / Concession £10 Fri & Sat 8pm All tickets £14 www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com 21
Tue 30 July – Sat 10 August 8.15pm (no show Sun or Mon) Venue Brewery Theatre
F BC See P03
AN AUDIENCE WITH
HORACE BATCHELOR:
king of keynsham BLUE BROOK PRODUCTIONS Directed by Ed Viney
Ever wanted to win big on the football pools? Want to meet a man who can show you how? For those of a certain age, the name Horace Batchelor conjures up memories of listening to Radio Luxembourg. It was a world where going to bed with a tranny meant listening to the radio under the bed sheets. It’s 1974. Horace’s Infra-Draw Method for winning the pools has not only brought him a lot of money but also a heap of infamy to a small town near Bristol. In this rags-to-riches story (your rags, his riches), Horace takes you into his world before he leaves it. It’s a world not far from here. In fact it’s Keynsham. That’s right, K-E-Y-N-S-H-A-M. What was the Infra-Draw Method? Did it really work or was it one big scam? Join Horace in his 27 bedroom mansion where his secrets will come tumbling out to a soundtrack of non-copyrighted hits. You are invited to an audience with the man himself, the legendary King of Keynsham. A change in fortunes is guaranteed. “Bristol-based Blue Brook Productions have brought this amazing story wonderfully to life. A moving reminder of young bravery, brilliantly done” This Is Bath (on The Dolphin Crossing) “It’s a masterclass in what theatre should be” The Stage (on Danger: Memory!) Running time 1hr 10mins
T F+
w Talk Post-sho See P33
Carrie Rhys-Davies TF+ Officer
Why do get-rich-quick schemes have such a hold over us? This study of a fascinating eccentric promises to shed some light on the matter…
Tickets Full £11 / Concession £8 / Opening night £5 (no conc. Fri or Sat)
22 Box Office 0117 902 0344
We regularly host shows by passionate and valuable local community, education and amateur groups that we are proud to support at the TFT. We also make the theatre available once per season for fundraising nights for locally based charities (see P37).
Mon 20 May 8.15pm Venue Brewery Theatre
Wed 05 & Thu 06 June 8.15pm Venue Brewery Theatre
THE KNITTING CIRCLE
Degree show
VITAL XPOSURE
A funny and emotionally challenging new play, directed by Antoinette Lester and written by Julie McNamara, from the extraordinary stories and testimonies of survivors of the old asylums. These forgotten voices combine in a play with great heart, celebrating the irrepressible human spirit.
PLYMOUTH UNIVERSITY AND THE CITY OF BRISTOL COLLEGE
Degree Show from The Foundation Degree in Theatre and Media Performance in partnership with Plymouth University and the City of Bristol College. A devised piece based on ‘adult re-imaginings’ of fairy tales. Age recommendation 16+
Tickets Full £12 / Concession £9
Tickets Full £6 / Concession £4
Fri 07 & Sat 08 June 8.15pm Venue Brewery Theatre
Tue 11 – Sat 15 June 8.15pm Venue Brewery Theatre
Wed 19 – Sat 29 June 7.45pm
First YEAR degree showcase
UWE NEW WRITING FEST
PLYMOUTH UNIVERSITY AND THE CITY OF BRISTOL COLLEGE
First Year Degree Showcase from The Foundation Degree in Theatre and Media Performance in partnership with Plymouth University and the City of Bristol College. A piece of ensemble theatre directed by David Straun.
Tickets Full £6 / Concession £4
(no show Sun or Mon)
Venue Brewery Theatre
UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST OF ENGLAND
The annual Writers’ Block residency is a showcase of plays produced by graduates from the University of the West of England’s Drama with Creative Writing programme. Directed by staff, the New Writing Festival features performances by final year actors. Full details will soon be available on the TFT website. Tickets Full £9 / Concession £7 / Opening night £5
HERMIONE STEEL AND THE ISLAND OF LOST MINDS STEPPING OUT IN ASSOCIATION WITH CHRYSALIS THEATRE AND DREAMWEAVERS
Hermione Steele, Mental Health Detective, leads an expedition to the Island of Lost Minds where you can claim back all you feel you have lost, but only at a terrible price. Tickets Full £9 / Concession £7
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Tue 07 & Wed 08 May 8pm Venue Factory Theatre
Thu 09 – Sat 11 May 8pm Venue Factory Theatre
STEWART RICHARD herring FRANCIS with CRAIG TALKING COCK CAMPBELL & GLENN WOOL The Comedy Box
“Man’s answer to the Vagina Monologues” The Guardian
THE COMEDY BOX
A titanic triple bill of Canadian stand up comedians featuring the most exciting acts on the world stage. It’s rare indeed to see acts of this calibre working together on the same line-up. Between them, they have appeared on Mock The Week, 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Live At The Apollo, Russell Howard’s Good News and Dave’s One Night Stand.
It’s an object of shame and pride; it inspires laughter and fear; it’s a symbol of power, yet it’s incredibly fragile; it can be a pound of flesh or an ounce of winkles; it can be used to express both love and hate; it creates life, it can condemn us to death... and it can do wees as well. How can one tiny flap of sponge and sinew be all these things?
“His Cock is as funny and fascinating for women as it is for men. I loved it. I only wished it could have been longer” The Scotsman
All three will perform new material as well as classic routines. Tickets £16 24 Box Office 0117 902 0344
Tickets £15
Sun 19 May 8pm Venue Factory Theatre
JOSH WIDDICOMBE
FURTHER ADVENTURES OF... The Comedy Box
“This is one of the most individual, accomplished, hilarious and unforgettable hours I have had this year” The Scotsman After selling out at the Tobacco Factory Theatre last November, Josh Widdicombe returns with his hotlyanticipated follow up to 2011’s Foster’s Newcomer nominated debut. He is the star of Live at the Apollo, Stand Up for the Week and 8 Out of 10 Cats and, latterly, The Last Leg with Adam Hills. He is fast establishing himself on the live circuit supporting huge comic talent such as Kevin Bridges, Michael McIntyre, and Alan Carr. Tickets £13
PART OF BROUHAHA FESTIVAL
Mon 20 May 8pm Venue Factory Theatre
DANIEL KITSON
AFTER THE BEGINNING . BEFORE THE END
Sun 30 June 8pm Venue Factory Theatre
Sat 13 July 8pm Venue Factory Theatre
SEIZE THE MARK DAVID WATSON & FRIENDS 0’DOHERTY The Comedy Box
The Comedy Box
“If a tornado could be bumbling and lovable while blowing things around, the experience would be similar to a Mark Watson stand-up set” The Guardian
Something like a stand-up show.
The high octane and hilarious Mark Watson headlines a bill of comedy featuring some of the most exciting comics of the moment. Mark is a comedian and novelist, who is lauded by critics and loved by Edinburgh Festival devotees. Immensely talented as a comedian and writer, he is one of the comedy firmament’s brightest stars and is not to be missed.
“O’Doherty expertly steers his way between the quirky, novelty and off-beat, as well as excellent traditional-style stand-up” The Scotsman Star of Never Mind The Buzzcocks and 8 Out Of 10 Cats, and winner of the 2008 Edinburgh Comedy Award, David O’Doherty’s humour fits into the slightly nerdish, misfit worldview increasingly adopted by a certain breed of comic; delicate, sweet and thought-provoking rather than aggressive and in-your face. Here he comes, hitting the proverbial road with a bag containing a tiny keyboard, six C batteries (spare) and a book of actual sex tips he found in a dentist’s waiting room.
“Simply exhilarating” Daily Telegraph Tickets £10
Tickets £15
Tickets £15 www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com 25
ROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHA
bristol
brou haha! comedy festival
15 – 20 JUlY Bristol Brouhaha 2013 is
the 5th annual showcase of the best in UK stand-up and will feature Edinburgh previews,
MOn 15 JUlY 8PM TUE 16 JUlY 8PM WED 17 JUlY 8PM Venue Factory Theatre
Venue Factory Theatre
Venue Factory Theatre
RICHARD HERRInG JARRED CHRIsTMAs
HAl CRUTTEnDEn
One of the UK’s most prolific comedians, innovator in the world of podcasts and “The King of Edinburgh” (The List). Don’t miss this chance to see this cult comedy legend working on a new show.
With a new deal with Channel 4 DVD, rave reviews at The Edinburgh Fringe, a sitcom in development and a run of top TV performances, 2013 marks the dawn of a brand new hal Cruttenden. As seen on Live At The Apollo and The Matt Lucas Awards.
Edinburgh Preview
“Herring is a superior comedian ... hilarious.” The Guardian
AlAn FRAnCIs ‘EXPAnDs’
From Edinburgh 2012 Now bitter and middle aged, with a Buddha belly and no hair products in sight, the Award winning Scottish comedian Alan Francis rails against the disappointments of the modern world with eloquence and passion. “Thought provoking, eloquent, entertaining... Well worth your time” The Scotsman, Edinburgh 2012 Double bill £10 26 BOx OFFiCE 0117 902 0344
Stand-Up Show Known for deftly mixing gags with storytelling, New Zealander Jarred is full of passion and charisma. he has a dynamic onstage persona that makes his comedy sizzle with originality. “Likeable, intelligent and full of unpredictable energy” The Scotsman
Edinburgh Preview
“Hugely talented” The Times
CAREY MARX
GARY DElAnEY
Edinburgh Preview
Edinburgh Preview
Brand new show from this unapologetic gagsmith. Carey Marx is definitely one for the connoisseur of comedy writing. The jokes are short and sharp, often uncomfortably so, as any morality is sacrificed on the altar of quick laughs.
Following on from his successful appearances on Mock the Week and Dave’s One Night Stand, Gary Delaney will be testing a rough and ready bag of new born jokes for Edinburgh.
“Marx’s slick delivery lends itself to clever verbal comedy” The Scotsman
Double bill £10
“Master of the one liner” The Scotsman “Expect a cavalcade of brilliantly inventive puns” The Guardian Double bill £10
AHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BROUHAHA/BR
stand-up sets, works-in-progress & touring shows. Go to BristolBrouhaha.com for full details, including events at the hen & Chicken, plus Comedy Club 4 Kids (see P28).
THU 18 JUlY 8PM FRI 19 JUlY 8PM sAT 20 JUlY 8PM Venue Factory Theatre
Venue Factory Theatre
Venue Factory Theatre
DAlIsO CHAPOnDA
IAn sTOnE
AlUn COCHRAnE
Stand Up Show
Work-in-Progress
Clearly a deft and accomplished stand-up, ian Stone’s intelligent and finely-tuned observational comedy is consistently funny, sharply written and peppered with smart topical asides. Always a popular act at Brouhaha, ian makes his fourth appearance with us.
Developing material for a brand new tour planned for early next year, master storyteller Alun Cochrane has appeared on Never Mind The Buzzcocks, Have I Got News For You and Mock The Week. he is one of the most natural comedians working in the UK today.
“A masterful exponent of self-mocking Jewish humour” The Times
“Prime laugh-out-loud stupid moments” The List
‘lAUGHRICA’ Stand Up Show
Daliso Chaponda is an African comedian whose comedy career has been built on jokes about Westerners. For his latest one man show he’s focusing his humorous eye on Africa. Westerners are insane but to be perfectly honest, Africans are even crazier.
CElIA PACQUOlA TOM AllEn ‘DElAYED’
BrouHaHa 2012/Edinburgh 2012/ Adelaide 2013 in 2010, critically acclaimed Aussie comic Celia Pacquola relocated to the UK leaving behind friends, family and her boyfriend. She didn’t write any postcards to her family. She wrote jokes instead and is laden with stories of global mischief.
AllYsOn sMITH
Stand Up Show
Stand Up Show
Raconteur and comedian Tom Allen is a wonderfully laconic anecdotalist, and bears an uncanny stage presence to what might be described as the love child of Kenneth Williams and Stephen Fry. he has a genius for digression and an ear for hilariously mundane comments and platitudes. A rare talent, indeed.
With credits including her own hour long Comedy Special on Canadian television, and frequent appearances at the prestigious Montreal’s Just For Laughs Festival, Canadian comic Allyson Smith brings her sassy blend of in-your-face stand-up and hilariously insightful commentary to Bristol for the first time.
Double bill £10
Double bill £10
“A rare gift for comic storytelling” Daily Telegraph Double bill £10
WWW.TOBACCOFACTORYThEATRE.COM 27
’s BrouhahaLUB COMEDY CS 4 KID 0
£7.5 ly 4pm / Sat 20 Ju gg, E e rg o e With G Taylor in F bins & John Ro .com lbrouhaha See bristo fo in for more
Mon 13 – Wed 15 May Mon 2pm / Tue – Wed 11am & 2pm Venue Factory Theatre
Sat 20 July 11am Venue Factory Theatre
BC See P03
THE MAGICAL THE ELVES AND THE SHOEMAKER PLAYROOM WITH CBEEBIES’ STUFF AND NONSENSE THEATRE COMPANY
Are you ready for shoes made of bread…shoes that can make you dance…feather shoes that tickle your feet until you can’t stop laughing? The Elves and The Shoemaker, from the unswervingly energetic Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company (The Enormous Turnip, Little Red Hen and 3 Little Pigs) is here with puppets, music, comedy and tonnes of bonkers shoes!
CERRIE BURNELL SEABRIGHT PRODUCTIONS
This delightful new show stars the popular presenter, in an original story inspired by her own childhood.
Sat in his kitchen workshop, Sam Lacey makes terrible shoes and tries to sell them online. They are so bad that no-one really wants them. Then one night, two tiny visitors climb in through the window and start cutting and stitching and gluing and Sam’s life is never quite the same again!
In this new show directed by Hal Chambers, Cerrie plays Liberty Rose, or Libby to her friends. She dreams of becoming a ballerina like her mum before her. But when she’s told to wear a false arm for dancing lessons, Libby rebels, seeking escape in her favourite playroom. Suddenly, the toys magically come to life around her. Will Libby’s new friends be able to help her to become a famous ballerina?
“They’ve done it again, delivering a simple tale, enchantingly told” The Stage
“It would be hard to find a children’s presenter more perfect than Burnell” The Guardian
Running time 1hr 10mins Age recommendation 3–7 year olds
Running time 55 minutes Age recommendation 3–6 year olds
Tickets £7
Tickets £9
28 Box Office 0117 902 0344
Fri 30 August – Sun 08 September Venue Factory and Brewery Theatres
BRISTOL FESTIVAL OF PUPPETRY 2013 TOBACCO FACTORY THEATRE & PUPPET PLACE
In late August, Puppet Place casts its spell over the Factory and Brewery Theatres once again with a concoction of puppetry and animation to enchant, delight and provoke. This year we invite you to explore the outer reaches of the puppetry-verse. Delve into the myriad strange and twisted worlds that puppets inhabit and delight in the wonderful characters animated by some of the most consummate and skilful performers on our own doorstep and from the rest of the world. As in previous years, there will be something for everyone and all ages. Alongside the programme of shows and films, there will be an exhibition featuring some of Aardman’s best known characters, the late night Smoking Puppet Cabaret and the stupendous Creatures of Southville Carnival returning to the streets to celebrate the opening of the Festival.
Green Ginger / Rusty Squid. Photo by Farrows Creative
There will be more on the festival in the next TFT brochure. In the meantime, check out www.puppetplace.org or find Puppet Place on facebook.com/puppetplace “What a fantastic festival! We’ve had immense fun – great people, great talent, great city!” Wakka Wakka, BFP11 Performers & OBIE Winners “Brilliant festival – great opportunity to see great talent, fabulous environment, really fantastic event!” Audience feedback
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Tue 15 – Sat 26 October 7.30pm (not Sun, Mon or Thu) Venue Factory Theatre
Mozart’s
THE MAGIC FLUTE opera project
Mozart’s fantastical opera blends fairy tale adventure and playful comedy, to tell a tale of magic, power and love, with music as enchanting and spectacular as the plot is mysterious. Tamino’s quest to rescue the beautiful Pamina for the powerful Queen of the Night is transformed into a search for Wisdom, Virtue and Truth. He is accompanied on his journey by the Queen’s official bird catcher, Papageno, and under the protection of the Magic Flute. But when he enters the great Temple of Sarastro, his heroic rescue mission takes a new turn, as the devious Queen’s true colours are revealed. Papageno, on the other hand, desires the simpler things in life – fine wine, good food and a lovely looking chick to share it with... A true testament to Mozart’s genius, The Magic Flute is packed with some of the composer’s most recognisable music. From the infamous and stratospherically acrobatic Queen of the Night arias, to heartfelt duets and comic exchanges, Mozart’s magnificent opera is simultaneously comical and genuinely moving. Celebrating 20 years as a company, Opera Project return to the Tobacco Factory Theatre after 2012’s fantastic production of Eugene Onegin. A strong ensemble cast featuring faces both familiar and new, will sing in English to the exceptional sounds of the orchestra. “I left the theatre reeling from the experience...A remarkably strong cast” The Guardian (on Eugene Onegin)
EARLY FFER g O £26 book5in 16 W & ed Tue 1 19 £30 & Sat ne Fri 18 y 01 Ju Book b
30 Box Office 0117 902 0344
“This is a production which uses the bare minimum in staging, performers and even space, to tell a story with huge emotional impact – and pulls it off with apparent ease. A treat” BBC Music Magazine (on Eugene Onegin) Tickets Tue 15, Wed 16, Tue 22 & Wed 23 Oct £29 Fri 18 & Fri 25 Oct £33 Sat 19 & Sat 26 Oct £35
EARLY FFER gO booakmiliynTicket £35om F ows fr s to sh Applie v – 20 Dec 30 No ugust y 01 A Book b
Wed 27 November 2013 – Sun 12 January 2014 Venue Factory Theatre
THE LAST VOYAGE OF
SINBAD THE SAILOR
TOBACCO FACTORY THEATRE AND TRAVELLING LIGHT
For centuries, stories have been told of Sinbad the Sailor and his incredible adventures; stories of catastrophic shipwrecks, far-off lands and mythical beasts. Escaping the clutches of cannibals, one-eyed ogres and man-eating snakes, Sinbad is the ultimate hero. But every hero has a secret story and Sinbad’s is about to come back and bite him. He doesn’t know who to trust or which way to turn… but he does know that he must undertake one final voyage into the unknown. Will Sinbad and his band of salty seadogs survive to find the greatest treasure of all? This Christmas set sail on The Last Voyage of Sinbad the Sailor – his most dangerous, heart-breaking and hysterical journey ever. The Tobacco Factory Theatre and Travelling Light are delighted to reunite members of the teams behind Cinderella and Ali Baba, to bring you this new telling of Sinbad’s most fantastical adventures, plus a brand new tale that’s never before been told. “My favourite show of the past 12 months” The Times (on Cinderella: A Fairytale) “A terrific family night out” The Guardian (on Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves) Age recommendation 6+ Tickets Wed 27 – Fri 29 Nov All tickets £8 30 Nov – 20 Dec, 02 – 03 & 09 –10 Jan Full £14 / Concession £10 / Family Tickets £40* 21 – 30 Dec, 04 – 05 Jan, 11 – 12 Jan Full £17 / Concession £13 / Family Ticket £50* *2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children
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TOBACCO FACTORY ThEATRE
Mon 12 – Fri 16 August 10am – 5pm For ages 13 – 18 / £175 (bursary places available) Our unique and innovative Summer Schools are renowned for giving young people an inspirational performing arts experience in a fun and supportive environment. Participants work with an expert team of professional artists to discover new and exciting ways of making theatre. it’s not just about acting: you also get to try out devising, ensemble work and a range of different techniques for making performance. This year participants will explore the area immediately surrounding the Tobacco Factory to uncover people and places that have special stories to tell. Working with a director, playwright and composer, they’ll look at how to put those stories on stage using improvisation, writing, live music and whatever else they can lay our hands on. And at the end of the week they will share their work with family and friends at an informal performance in the Brewery Theatre. it’s not only an amazing way to develop drama skills; it’s also a brilliant opportunity to make new friends and build confidence. “A fantastic week that I will never forget” Ana, aged 13 “The spark that I wanted, to tell me that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life” Calum, aged 16
hot Air MYRTLE ThEATRE
Myrtle Theatre are running workshops for children and young people to accompany their production of Hot Air. I Can Fly Wed 31 Jul 10am – 12.30pm (6 to 9 year olds) / £5 Wed 07 Aug 10am – 12.30pm (9 to 12 year olds) / £5 An acting workshop for children. Singing in the Clouds Mon 05 Aug 9.45am – 10.30am or 11am – 11.45am / £3.50 (child & carer) A creative dance and music workshop for 2 to 5 year olds and their carers. Full details are available online at www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com/plus To book call 0117 902 0344 32 BOx OFFiCE 0117 902 0344
Post-show Talks
how to Take a Show to Edinburgh
Our programme of post-show chats gives you the chance to get up close and personal with the artists and their work. This season’s post-show talks include:
A Warts-and-all Guide Tue 09 July 6pm / £5
The Bear Fri 10 May (find out about the show on P05) The Dug Out Thu 13 Jun (find out about the show on P12) Horace: King of Keynsham Tue 06 Aug (find out about the show on P22)
hot Air The wonderful Myrtle Theatre Company are running a number of events to accompany their production of Hot Air (see P20). Sport of the Gods Mon 29 Jul 6pm / £2* A talk by Don Cameron of Cameron Balloons about his life in hot air ballooning. *in support of Children’s hospice South West.
Q&A Thu 01 Aug post-evening show An opportunity to meet the team behind the show and ask questions about the creative process. Are they going up? Sat 03 Aug post-matinee A sharing of fiesta memories with and for the general public.
TOBACCO FACTORY ThEATRE AND ThEATRE BRiSTOL
A must for artists and companies thinking about making their first foray to the world’s biggest arts festival in 2014, this practical guide to producing on the Fringe returns by popular demand. With useful advice and salutary tales from people who’ve been-there-done-that, and a chance to find out about the increasing number of ‘alternative’ ways in, this is an invaluable opportunity for those hoping to make it big north of the border to get the low down, and to get thinking in time for a recce this summer. “Absolutely fantastic – really helpful and very enjoyable” Previous participant
Masterclass with Lee Simpson Fri 10 May 10.30am – 1.30pm / £15 (includes lunch) The director of The Bear (see P05), co-Artistic Director of improbable and Comedy Store Players regular offers an insight into his practice for emerging and established directors.
Fancy a Whizzer? Wed 07 Aug post-evening show A sharing of hot air ballooning adventures by pilots.
Masterclass with Gecko
Relaxed performance Thu 01 Aug 2.30pm A slightly adapted performance to ensure a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for those with a learning disability and their families.
Artistic Director Amit Lahav leads an intensive weekend-long workshop on the internationally renowned company’s approach to devising visual and expressive performance.
Sat 29 – Sun 30 June 10am – 5pm / £90 (£75 conc.)
WWW.TOBACCOFACTORYThEATRE.COM 33
JOIN US
“THE TOBACCO FACTORY WORKS WONDERS WITH LITTLE MONEY; WITH MORE INVESTMENT IT WOULD PERFORM MIRACLES” Susannah Clapp, The Observer & BBC Radio 3 We are grateful for the generous support of all our Fans and our FanBassadors, and remain indebted to our Fans for Life, whose support was instrumental in the early years of the theatre. In 2012 we welcomed over 100,000 people to 676 performances, classes, talks, workshops and other events in the Tobacco Factory and Brewery Theatres. To do this costs £1.5m a year. We are proud to earn 85% of our income and receive only 6% in investment from public funds. But did you know that we are a registered charity? We rely on the generous support of our audiences and our business partners to raise a further £135,000 each year to keep the work of our theatres thriving. Becoming a Fan or Fanbassador Please join us and know that your donation is making an incredible difference to the theatre. As a Fan you will receive priority booking for all shows, special offers and 2-4-1 (see P03) deals, regular communication from the theatre team, and invitations to events throughout the year including our exclusive season launches! As a FanBassador you will also receive complimentary tickets and a personalised booking service. Sign up now from £30 a year: Email or call us for information, pick up a leaflet in the foyer or ask the box office and we will join you up! 0117 902 0345 or email development@tobaccofactorytheatre.com We’re currently running a fundraising appeal to enable us to install new seating in the Factory Theatre this summer. See P36 for details and be part of the transformation. 34 Box Office 0117 902 0344
Our Fans for Life commemorative plaque can be found in the theatre foyer.
FanBassadors 2013 Geoffrey Clements simon davies Alec Ewens John & Susan Hart Simon Inch Vivien Kies Barbara king Judith & Tim Lockwood Jones Julian Thomas Anonymous
Further INFORMATION
For info on the Business Club 241 offer, see P03. For more information about joining the Tobacco Factory Business Club please contact: Lucy Raffety Email: lucy@tobaccofactorytheatre.com Phone: 0117 963 0935
We gratefully acknowledge...
Ashgrove Pharmacy
bellwind EDIS ltd
www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com 35
HELP US TO MAKE SURE THAT BRISTOL’S NEWEST CULTURAL POWERHOUSE HAS SEATING THAT MATCHES ITS ARTISTIC REPUTATION. WE NEED YOUR HELP TO RAISE £150,000 BY 01 AUGUST 2013.
BE PART OF THE TRANSFORMATION
WORK IS NOW UNDERWAY TO REDESIGN YOUR MUCH-LOVED FACTORY THEATRE AND INSTALLATION OF NEW SEATING WILL HAPPEN IN AUGUST 2013.
We will be:
HELP CREATE A BETTER EXPERIENCE FOR ALL
FITTING COMFORTABLE SEATS IMPROVING SIGHTLINES INCREASING CAPACITY Whilst retaining:
INTIMACY CHARACTER FLEXIBILITY Please make a donation to the seating appeal by Sponsoring a Seat.
SPONSOR A SEAT
Your vital contribution will improve the experience of theatregoers for years to come. In recognition, you will be acknowledged on the theatre wall for the next 10 years and have the opportunity to dedicate your own plaque. Plaques will be differentiated according to your donation and will come together to create a lasting piece of artwork in the theatre foyer.
YOU CAN DONATE ONLINE AT WWW.TOBACCOFACTORYTHEATRE.COM, BY CALLING THE BOX OFFICE ON 0117 902 0344, OR BY PICKING UP AND FILLING OUT A LEAFLET IN THE THEATRE FOYER. 36 BOx OFFiCE 0117 902 0344
WWW.TOBACCOFACTORYThEATRE.COM 37
“Open air theatre as it should be and at its very, very best.”
Brandon Hill The Bowling Green, Bristol Wednesday 10th July 7.30pm Box Office: 0117 9020344 Adult £14.50 Child £8.50
38 Box Office 0117 902 0344
www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com 39
FACTORY THEATRE
BREWERY THEATRE
FACTORY THEATRE
MAY W 01 Two Gentlemen of Verona 7.30pm The Agony and the Ecstasy 8.15pm T 02 Two Gentlemen of Verona 8pm The Agony and the Ecstasy 8.15pm F 03 Two Gentlemen of Verona 8pm The Agony and the Ecstasy 8.15pm S 04 Two Gentlemen... 2.30pm & 7.30pm The Agony and the Ecstasy 8.15pm T 07 Francis, Campbell & Wool 8pm The Incomers 8.15pm W 08 Francis, Campbell & Wool 8pm The Incomers 8.15pm T 09 Richard Herring 8pm The Incomers 8.15pm F 10 Richard Herring 8pm The Bear PST 8.15pm S 11 Richard Herring 8pm The Bear 8.15pm M 13 Elves and the Shoemaker 2pm T 14 Elves and the Shoe... 11am & 2pm W 15 Elves and the Shoe... 11am & 2pm 8pm T 16 Tosca F 17 Tosca 8pm Flaneurs 6pm S 18 Tosca 8pm Flaneurs 6pm S 19 Josh Widdicombe 8pm M 20 Daniel Kitson 8pm The Knitting Circle 8.15pm T 21 Cooking Ghosts 8pm Goodbye Thailand 6pm W 22 Cooking Ghosts 8pm Goodbye Thailand 6pm T 23 Cooking Ghosts 8pm Goodbye Thailand 6pm F 24 Trash Cuisine 8pm Gym Party 6pm S 25 Trash Cuisine 2pm & 8pm Gym Party 6pm T 28 Napoleon: A Defence 7.15pm W 29 Napoleon: A Defence 7.15pm Napoleon: A Defence 7.15pm T 30 The Dug Out 8pm Napoleon: A Defence 7.15pm F 31 The Dug Out 8pm
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JUNE S 01 The Dug Out 2.30pm & 8pm Napoleon: A Defence 2.15pm & 7.15pm 8pm M 03 The Dug Out 8pm T 04 The Dug Out W 05 The Dug Out 8pm Degree Show 8.15pm T 06 The Dug Out 8pm Degree Show 8.15pm F 07 The Dug Out 8pm First Year Degree Show 8.15pm S 08 The Dug Out 2.30pm & 8pm First Year Degree Show 8.15pm S 09 Gathering Voices 8pm M 10 The Dug Out 8pm T 11 The Dug Out 8pm UWE New Writing 8.15pm W 12 The Dug Out 8pm UWE New Writing 8.15pm UWE New Writing 8.15pm T 13 The Dug Out PST 8pm F 14 The Dug Out 8pm UWE New Writing 8.15pm S 15 The Dug Out 2.30pm & 8pm UWE New Writing 8.15pm M 17 Moonfleet 7.30pm T 18 Moonfleet 7.30pm W 19 Hermione Steel 7.45pm T 20 Hermione Steel 7.45pm F 21 Hermione Steel 7.45pm S 22 Hermione Steel 7.45pm T 25 The Rivals 7.30pm Hermione Steel 7.45pm W 26 The Rivals 7.30pm Hermione Steel 7.45pm T 27 The Rivals 2.30pm & 7.30pm Hermione Steel 7.45pm F 28 The Rivals 7.30pm Hermione Steel 7.45pm S 29 The Rivals 2.30pm & 7.30pm Hermione Steel 7.45pm S 30 Mark Watson & Friends 8pm
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JULY F 05 Diary of a Madman 8.15pm S 06 Diary of a Madman 8.15pm T 11 My Robot Heart 8.15pm F 12 My Robot Heart 8.15pm S 13 David O’Doherty 8pm My Robot Heart 8.15pm M 15 Brouhaha 8pm T 16 Brouhaha 8pm W 17 Brouhaha 8pm T 18 Brouhaha 8pm F 19 Brouhaha 8pm 11am S 20 The Magical Playroom Brouhaha 8pm S 21 Squally Showers 8pm
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40 Box Office 0117 902 0344
BREWERY THEATRE
JULY (continued) M 22 Henry VIII 8.15pm T 23 Henry VIII 8.15pm W 24 Henry VIII 8.15pm Henry VIII 8.15pm T 25 Hot Air 8pm Henry VIII 8.15pm F 26 Hot Air 8pm S 27 Hot Air 2.30pm & 8pm Henry VIII 2.15pm & 8.15pm 8pm M 29 Hot Air 8pm Horace Batchelor 8.15pm T 30 Hot Air 8.15pm W 31 Hot Air 8pm Horace Batchelor
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AUGUST T 01 Hot Air RP 2.30pm 2.30pm & 8pm Horace Batchelor 8.15pm F 02 Hot Air 8pm Horace Batchelor 8.15pm S 03 Hot Air 2.30pm & 8pm Horace Batchelor 8.15pm M 05 Hot Air 8pm PST 8.15pm T 06 Hot Air 8pm Horace Batchelor 8.15pm W 07 Hot Air 8pm Horace Batchelor T 08 Hot Air 2.30pm & 8pm Horace Batchelor 8.15pm F 09 Hot Air 8pm Horace Batchelor 8.15pm S 10 Hot Air 2.30pm & 8pm Horace Batchelor 8.15pm
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Coming soon 30 Aug – 08 Sep Bristol Festival of Puppetry 2013 15 – 26 Oct The Magic Flute 27 Nov – 12 Jan 2014 The Last Voyage of Sinbad the Sailor
Offers are only available on certain dates. If you see the relevant symbol next to the date, the offer is available.
Opening night tickets £5
£9 Preview tickets £9 BC Business Club 241 Tickets F Fans 241 Tickets RP Relaxed performance (see P33 for details) PST Post-show Talks (see P33 for details) Signed performances for Deaf and BSL users
theatre staff
HOW TO BOOK
Box Office 0117 902 0344 Online www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com Email enquiries tickets@tobaccofactorytheatre.com
box office
Opening Hours 10am – 6.30pm Monday to Saturday (exc. Public holidays) On days when performances are scheduled, the Box Office will be open until the start of the performance. If there is a show scheduled on a Sunday or during public holidays, the Box Office will be open for 2 hours prior to the performance.
Payment
We accept all major credit and debit cards except American Express. A booking fee of 50p for 1 ticket or £1 for 2 or more tickets applies to all card transactions. We cannot offer refunds, but tickets can be exchanged for another performance of the same production up to 48 hours before the show (subject to availability). An administration charge of £1 applies. Please do be aware that a booking fee of £2.50 per transaction will be charged for online bookings. Bookings made direct with the Theatre either in person or by phone do not incur a fee other than the card-handling fee described above.
Groups
For every ten tickets bought by a school or group, the eleventh is free. Other group discounts may apply. Please ask the Box Office for further details.
CONCESSIONS
Concessions may be available for children (16 and under), over 60s, registered disabled, equity members, students and benefit claimants. Concessions are available at the discretion of the visiting company, so may not be available for all productions. When collecting concessionary tickets, proof of concession must be provided.
Access
If you have any specific access requirements please contact the Box Office and we will be happy to discuss your visit in more detail.
Director Ali Robertson Deputy Director Lauren Scholey Director of Operations David Dewhurst Technical Manager Matthew Graham Marketing Manager Becky Lane Marketing Assistant Joe Roberts TF+ Officer Carrie Rhys-Davies Development Director (Maternity cover) Lucy Raffety Development Officer Holly Foulds Front of House Manager Johnny Mauchline Finance Elaine Grünbaum Administrator Rusti Macapagal Producer Melanie Zaalof Box Office Manager Katy Wilkes Box Office Staff Nicola Bailey / Simon Harvey-Williams / Ed Strong / Beckie Upton Duty Managers Nicola Bailey / Carly Darnell / Ed Field / Anna Girvan / Matthew Whittle / Rhiannon White Bar Staff Louise Baker / Tomasin Cuthbert / Ben Goodman / Amber Hards / Bob Havard / Laurie Lax / Lauren Macaulay / Jesse Meadows / Alex Milward / Ed Strong / Rhian Williams Associate Dance Artists Mark Bruce Company
SPECIAL OFFER Our Friends at the TF CafÉ/Bar offer a Pre-theatre ‘Quick Dish’ Every evening there will be a quick dish available to be served immediately, with a pound off for Theatre ticket holders. Offer available evenings only.
FUrTHER INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND AT WWW.TOBACCOFACTORYTHEATRE.COM Box Office 0117 902 0344 41
USE OUR SPACES
The Tobacco Factory and Brewery Theatres provide wonderfully alternative spaces for parties, meetings and events. Hire our beautiful auditoriums, private foyer, studios or meeting room, and we’ll provide a smart
professional service in a theatrical surrounding. Run by our theatre team, our events can come with access to technical and staff support, a private bar and external catering options.
To hire any of our spaces please call Rusti Macapagal on 0117 902 0345 or email theatre@tobaccofactorytheatre.com
SUNDAY MARKET EVERYweek SUNDAY10am 10:00am-- 2.30pm 2:30pm Every The Sunday market is a cornerstone of the Southville community, offering affordable food and crafts, locally made bread, cakes, farm food, sausages and pies, flowers and much more. Our vintage & retro market ‘Retroville’ occurs on the first Sunday of every month, with clothing, jewellery, ornaments, records and even a vintage tea room, running alongside the regular market.
WWW.TOBACCOFACTORY.COM