Grand Opera House York Autumn 2011 Brochure by Grand Opera House York

the nutcracker

judy & liza

alan carr

autumn / winter 2011 0844 871 3024 (bkg fee)

sizzling political drama starring paul nicholas Mon 17 - Sat 22 Oct

www.grandoperahouse york.org.uk

Welcome

Diary

Hello and welcome to the Grand Opera House York’s Autumn What’s On brochure. We are all very excited to be welcoming Legally Blonde – The Musical to us as the third theatre on its first ever national tour. The production was winner of Best New Musical at the Olivier Awards 2011 so it will be an amazing two weeks for the theatre - please try to be part of it! As you will see, our autumn season is packed to the rafters with song, music, dance, comedy and children’s shows. Music lovers will see the usual top class names including Echo and The Bunnymen, KT Tunstall and Show of Hands, whilst we continue to provide a home for the night to many of the country’s greatest stand up comedians such as Alan Carr, Russell Kane and Dave Gorman. For those with green fingers (or not) we are delighted to be welcoming Gardeners’ Question Time The Live Tour, featuring a selection of the panellists from the BBC Radio 4 show. After a short break opera is returning to the Grand Opera House. The Ukrainian National Opera of Kharkiv will be performing Verdi’s La Traviata and Puccini’s Madama Butterfly over two nights in October. Our fabulously family friendly pantomime, Aladdin, starts on Friday 9 December. Steven Arnold (Ashley Peacock from Coronation Street) will be starring together with a host of goodies and baddies. We are holding auditions for the babes and dancers wishing to appear in the show this year on Monday 19 September. Further details can be found later in the brochure. Thank you for continuing to support the Grand Opera House York. Best wishes

Lizzie Richards General Manager

Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) is the largest theatre operator in the world combining its international stature with core local values. As a successful and respected theatre provider, ATG has years of experience helping millions of customers enjoy the very best theatre and live entertainment - and now it’s your turn to be part of it.

August west side story Thu 4 - Sat 6 Aug

legally blonde Tue 9 - Sat 20 Aug

4-5

september alan carr Mon 5 Sep

Numberjacks Tue 6 & Wed 7 Sep

The Producers Mon 12 - Sat 17 Sep

Time Gentlemen Please Sun 18 Sep

Pantomime Dance Auditions Mon 19 Sep 25 Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson Tue 20 Sep 12 Halfway To Paradise – The Billy Fury Story Wed 21 Sep

Motowns Greatest Hits How Sweet It Is Thu 22 Sep

Colin Fry Fri 23 Sep

Reginald D Hunter Mon 26 Sep

Straight No Chaser Tue 27 Sep

Justin Moorhouse Wed 28 Sep

Echo and The Bunnymen Thu 29 Sep

Blackmore’s Night Fri 30 Sep

october Russell Kane Sat 1 Oct

Respect La Diva Sun 2 Oct

The Jungle Book Tue 4 - Sat 8 Oct Magic – A Kind of Queen Sun 9 Oct

The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain Tue 11 & Wed 12 Oct 14 Vampires Rock Thu 13 Oct La Traviata Fri 14 Oct Madama Buttterfly Sat 15 Oct Keeler Mon 17 - Sat 22 Oct

Ralph McTell Mon 24 Oct The Nutcracker Tue 25 Oct

Roary The Racing Car Wed 26 Oct

Sally Morgan Wed 26 Oct

The Sensational 60’s Experience Thu 27 Oct

steve earle & the dukes (and duchesses) Sat 29 Oct

Milton Jones Sun 30 Oct

November Jerry Sadowitz Tue 1 Nov

Puppetry of the Penis in 3D Sat 5 Nov 16

Mostly Autumn Sat 19 Nov

KT Tunstall Sun 6 Nov

Paul Carrack Wed 23 Nov

Mike Harding Sat 26 Nov

The Johnny Cash Roadshow Tue 8 Nov 17

Dominic Kirwan Sun 27 Nov

The Vagina Monologues

Joe Longthorne Wed 30 Nov

december Show Of Hands Thu 1 Dec

Beyond The Barricade at Christmas Fri 2 Dec

Chris Addison Sun 4 Dec

Aladdin Fri 9 Dec - Sun 1 Jan

Tom Paxton Mon 7 Nov

Wed 9 Nov

Dave Gorman Thu 10 Nov

Gardeners’ Question Time Fri 11 Nov 17 Judy & Liza Sat 12 Nov Essence of Ireland Sun 13 Nov Fascinating Aida Mon 14 Nov

Roy Orbison and Friends Thu 17 Nov 18 Lee Nelson Fri 18 Nov

The Ladyboys of Bangkok Wed 2 Nov 16 One Night of Elvis Thu 3 Nov

Jake & Elwood Fri 4 Nov

jake & elwood Fri 4 Nov

winner! best new musical 20 ‘simply blows other musicals out of the water. SENSATIONAL’ The Sun

★★★★

‘Smart, sassy, SPECTACULAR’ The Daily Telegraph

★★★★

‘Hysterically funny’ The Mail On Sunday

11 Olivier Awards

Starring

liz mcclarnon (atomic kitten) as Paulette

West End legend

Dave Willetts as Callaghan

For the first time ever, the West End & Broadway sensation, 2011 Olivier Award winner (Best New Musical) and winner of Best New Musical Whatsonstage.com Awards, Legally Blonde The Musical comes to York. Based on the hit movie starring Reese Witherspoon, this critically acclaimed new musical is created by a top-of-their-class creative team, led by Tony Award-winning director and Olivier Award-nominated choreographer Jerry Mitchell (Hairspray). College sweetheart and homecoming queen Elle Woods doesn’t take no for an answer. So when her boyfriend, Warner, dumps her for someone serious, Elle puts down the credit card, hits the books, and heads for Harvard Law School. Legally Blonde The Musical will take you from the social whirl of California Campus life to Harvard’s Halls of Justice with the brightest new heroine (and of course, her Chihuahua, Bruiser). This all singing, all dancing, feel-good musical comedy will be the highlight of your year and the most fashionable ticket in town. The verdict? This much fun shouldn’t be legal!

‘Perfection’ The Independent

★★★★★ Time out

neil toon (hollyoaks) as Warner

and introducing

faye brookes as Elle

TUe 9 - sat 20 Aug Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm livecard best discount 2 for 1 on opening night Groups 10+ £6 off plus 1 in 20 go free C g L audio described perf Thu 18 Aug 7.30pm

0844 871 3024 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk

The world’s greatest love story

Director & Choreographer Louise Denison Musical Director Adam Laird

‘a triumph’ york press on last year’s guys and dolls

The world’s greatest love story takes to the streets in this landmark Broadway musical. Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is transported to modern-day New York City, as two young idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the American Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time. Winner of ten Academy Awards and two Tony Awards, Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story is one of the all-time great American musicals, with explosive dancing and some of the most electrifying music ever written for the stage, including Maria, Tonight and Somewhere. Following 10 years of fantastic productions, this summer’s Stage Experience production stars York’s most talented young performers who will work with a professional creative team to put this classic show together in just 2 weeks! This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Limited on behalf of Music Theatre International of New York.

Photographs of previous Stage Experience production

Thu 4 - sat 6 aug Thu - Sat eves 7.30pm Sat mat 2.30pm C f

0844 871 3024 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk

York stage musicals next production

‘A triumph. it had me in stitches. do yourself a favour and go’ the times

‘A masterclass in knockabout musical comedy. There has never been anything quite like The Producers!’ Evening Standard

Book by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan Music and Lyrics by Mel Brooks Director John Hall Musical Director Michael Thompson Choreographer Jessica Hardcastle Mel Brooks once again delights audiences with his ingenious, infectiously irreverent humour, knocking ’em dead on Broadway with the hottest ticket in town, The Producers. Brooks’ clever and vibrant musical comedy score tells the story of the impossibly charismatic duo Max Bialystock and Leo Bloom as the wily producers who cook the books and conspire to produce the worst musical ever. The show won an unprecedented twelve Tony Awards (including Best Musical, Best Direction, Best Actor and Best Original Score) and has been hailed ‘a gift from the showbiz gods’ Time Magazine. The critically acclaimed York Stage Musicals, renowned for bringing the best musical theatre to York, return to the Grand Opera House following their outstanding successes with Jesus Christ Superstar, Footloose, Billy Elliot and We Will Rock You. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with JOSEF WEINBERGER LIMITED on behalf of MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL of NEW YORK

www.yorkstagemusicals.co.uk

mon 12 - sat 17 sep Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Sat mat 2.30pm c G l audio described perf Sat 17 Sep 2.30pm & 7.30pm

0844 871 3024 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk

A wild adventure for the whole family

The Birmingham Stage Company is proud to present Rudyard Kipling’s classic story about Mowgli, a young boy who is raised in the jungle by a family of wolves. When Shere Khan the tiger swears to kill the child, Baloo and Bagheera agree to take the boy to the man village for his safety. But the jungle holds dangers and surprises for them all – and Mowgli’s extraordinary adventure has just begun. If you’re looking for a magnificent experience for all the family, then don’t miss this acclaimed production of Kipling’s timeless story!

★★★★ ‘This exhilarating, rip-roaring show ticks all the boxes for families looking for an uplifting treat’ Time Out

★★★★ ‘animal magic!’ birmingham mail 8

See a trailer of the show at www.birminghamstage.com

tue 4 - Sat 8 oct Tues 7pm Weds & Thus 10.30am & 1.30pm Fri 10.30am & 7pm Sat 2.30pm & 7pm livecard best discount Tickets just £12 school groups £8, plus 1 teacher free for every 10 children c g l F S audio described perf Sat 8 Oct 2.30pm & 7pm free pre-show arts & crafts activities Tue & Fri eves from 6.15pm

0844 871 3024 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk

ellen kent returns with the internationally acclaimed ukrainian national opera of kharkiv Derek Block & Blackburn International Proudly Present two Ellen Kent Productions with handpicked soloists, highly- praised chorus and full orchestra

Back by popular demand

The love story that gripped Paris. A tragic tale of searing passion and memorable music, La Traviata is Verdi’s outstanding interpretation of one of the most popular love stories of the 19th century, La dame aux Camelias. Based on a true story, it tells of the passionate consumptive Violetta. There are many echoes of Verdi’s own life in La Traviata and he threw himself into the music. The highlights include The Brindisi, the best known drinking song in opera, the duet Un Di Felice and Violetta’s haunting aria Addio Del Passato.

‘Uplifting, charming, heroic and finally tear -jerking’ Liverpool Echo

Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

fri 14 oct 7.30pm wed 19 & Thu 20 oct LIVECARD Eves 7.30pm Best discount £5 off top 3 prices tickets £21 - £37 c g lseats f available) s (Premium

Starring the American-Korean soprano Rosa Lee Thomas and the Korean soprano Elena Dee*. Back by overwhelming public demand, this award winning opera returns with exquisite sets including a spectacular Japanese garden and fabulous costumes including antique wedding kimonos from Japan. One of the world’s most popular operas, Puccini’s Madama Butterfly tells the heart-breaking story of the beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant – with dramatic results. Highlights include the melodic Humming Chorus, the moving aria One Fine Day and the unforgettable Love Duet.

‘This is a Butterfly to cherish’ Manchester Evening News

Sung in Italian with English surtitles. *Cast subject to change.

sat 15 oct 7.30pm Fri 21 & sat 22 oct LIVECARD Eves 7.30pmBest discount £5 off top 3 prices tickets £21 - £37 c g l seats f s available) (Premium 9

christine keeler’s sensational account of the ‘PROFUMO AFFAIR’

paul Nicholas stars as Stephen Ward

‘gill adams script for keeler is brillianT she tells it like it was’ christine keeler

by gill adams starring Paul Nicholas as Stephen Ward alice coulthard as Christine Keeler In 1963, the Secretary of State for war, John ‘Jack’ Profumo, was forced to resign after it was established that he had lied to the House about the nature of his relationship with a young showgirl Christine Keeler. She was also involved with a Russian spy during her affair with the Secretary of State. The ensuing scandal was in part responsible for the resignation of the Prime Minister Harol MacMillan and the suicide of the man who introduced Keeler to Profumo, Stephen Ward. Based on the 2001 biography, The Truth At Last, written by Christine Keeler with Douglas Thompson, this play reveals the sensational inside story of the infamous Profumo affair: the biggest political sex scandal to rock the British nation in the 20th century. Paul Nicholas is probably best known for the BAFTA award-winning TV series Just Good Friends. Alice is well known for her 2 year role as Maisie Wylde in Emmerdale. 10

Contains some nudity

Mon 17 - Sat 22 oct Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm livecard best discount Tickets just £12 school groups £8, plus 1 teacher free for every 10 children c g l F S audio described perf Sat 22 Oct 2.30pm & 7.30pm

0844 871 3024 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk

the spectacular family pantomime

Back b popul y ar dema nd

Friday 9 December 2011 Sunday 1 January 2012 December Fri 9

1.00

7.00

Sat 10

2.30

7.00

Sun 11

2.30

6.30

Mon 12

1.00

7.00

Tue 13

1.00

7.00

Wed 14

1.00

7.00

Thu 15

No performances

Fri 16

Panto time again? Oh yes it is! York’s beloved family pantomime returns with Aladdin, a magic carpet ride of fun, thrills and festive cheer. Steven Arnold (Corrie’s own Ashley Peacock) takes the title role, with Opera House favourite Aiden J Harvey returning as Wishy Washy and seasoned Dame Phil Randall taking them down a peg or two as the hilarious Widow Twankey. If you ask your genie for songs, laughs and a sprinkling of stardust this Christmas he’ll be sure to grant all your three wishes in one with an unforgettable night out at the Opera House.

‘A very funny, captivating panto with all the usual slapstick comedy, had the whole audience laughing throughout’ ‘Lots of songs, lots of laughs - a great day out’ Audience reviews from previous pantomimes

7.00

Sat 17

2.30

7.00

Sun 18

2.30

6.30

Mon 19

2.30

7.00

Tue 20

2.30

7.00

Wed 21

2.30

7.00

Thu 22

2.30

7.00

Fri 23

2.30

7.00

Sat 24

2.00

Sun 25

No performances

Mon 26

2.30

7.00

Tue 27

2.30

7.00

Wed 28

2.30

7.00

Thu 29

2.30

7.00

Fri 30

No performances

Sat 31

2.00

January Sun 1

4.00

Key Red Preview Green Peak performances BLACK Off peak performances

s school groups 10 + £9, plus 1 teacher free for every 10 children. Call 0844 871 3044 Audio Described Perfs Sat 17 Dec 2.30pm & 7pm Captioned Performance Tue 20 Dec 7pm

0844 871 3024 (fees apply) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk

one night shows

alan carr

numberjacks

mon 5 sep 8pm

tue 6 SEp 2.30pm

time gentlemen please

wed 7 sep 11am & 2.30pm

sun 18 sep 7.30pm c g l

Children’s TV’s favourite live on stage for the very first time! Join the TV superheroes as they leave the sofa and embark on their first live adventure – and help them solve problems as they go! But watch out for the dastardly Meanies, who do all they can to get in the way.

The UK’s no.1 folk dance and hip-hop extravaganza featuring the multi-award winning Demon Barber Roadshow. This energetic dance show brings together the best young folk and street dancers in the country, resulting in an unmissable visual feast that is fast, fun and suitable for anyone who loves any form of dance from contemporary to classical ballet.

halfway to paradise

motown’s greatest hits

the billy fury story

how sweet it is

wed 21 sep 7.30pm c l

thu 22 sep 7.30pm c g l

The story of a shy young boy from Liverpool who went on to become one of Britain’s best loved rock stars. Now in its 15th year and still furiously rockin’, his own band Furys’ Tornados with the beautiful voice of Colin Gold re-play live his timeless 29 hit records - Last Night Was Made For Love, I Will, Jealousy and many more.

Celebrating over 50 years of the sweet sound of Motown, this stunning 100% live show combines first class music together with the slickest choreography and an amazing band to deliver truly outstanding performances for the best Motown experience you will ever have! Back by popular demand.

Star of Channel 4’s Alan Carr Chatty Man returns to the road for his first UK tour in over 4 years. Come and join Alan as he tries out new material for his forthcoming 33 date UK and Ireland arena tour. ‘Warmth and charm, Alan Carr captures the spirit of a bygone age of British Comedy’ The Daily Telegraph

ian anderson tue 20 sep 7.30pm Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson comes to York on his intimate acoustic tour, playing the music of Jethro Tull along with some of his solo repertoire. He will be joined by Florian Opahle on guitar and John O’Hara on piano and accordion.

colin fry *

reginald d hunter

fri 23 sep 7.30pm c g l

SOMETIMES EVEN THE DEVIL TELLS THE TRUTH

Hailed as one of the world’s most respected mediums, international star of paranormal and psychic television programmes and dubbed in the national press as The Peoples Medium, Colin Fry undertakes his 2011 tour which promises to be the most intimate tour to date. An uplifting and thought provoking night of spirit communication.

straight no chaser tue 27 sep 7.30pm

mon 26 sep 8pm ‘His presence and intelligence make him one of the most brilliantly unpredictable comics in the country’ Sunday Times ‘Magic. his is a perfect set’ Guardian

If the phrase male a cappella group conjures up an image of students in blue blazers, ties, and khakis singing traditional college songs on ivied campuses, think again. With a massive fanbase, don’t miss the captivating sound of ten unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music, with a sense of humour.

justin moorhouse

echo and the bunnymen

blackmore’s night

wed 28 sep 8pm

thu 29 sep 7.30pm

fri 30 sep 7.30pm

Don’t miss this stand-up romp from one of Britain’s best comedians. Watching Justin live is a joy to behold, his comedy only coming second to his modesty. Justin didn’t write this. He got someone else to do it, but he agrees. ‘Moorhouse charms the pants off the crowd’ Sunday Times

‘Echo and the Bunnymen’s 1984 album Ocean Rain was a bold, ambitious record that marked the pinnacle in the moody Liverpudlians’ career, and still stands up as one of the finer moments of the post-punk/new wave era’ (Rolling Stone). The album will be performed, in its entirety, accompanied by strings.

This fantasy inspired folk rock band formed by legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore and singer/songwriter Candice Night, have a career spanning nearly two decades, winning awards and achieving gold records across the globe. Take a musical journey through time; from the 1600s, through the 1970s to today.

one night shows

russell kane

respect la diva

magic

manscaping

sun 2 Oct 7.30pm

a kind of queen

sat 1 oct 8pm Join Fosters Comedy Award Winner and star of loads of stuff on telly, Russell Kane as he mercilessly explores the ridiculous state of masculinity in the modern world. He shaves his chest fur; you watch and laugh.

★★★★★ ‘A seriously good comedian’ The Times

An entertaining musical revue paying tribute to some of the greatest female singers of all time including Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé and many more. Hosted by X-Factor finalist Andy Abrahams, with Sheila Ferguson (The Three Degrees), Denise Pearson (Five Star), Katy Setterfield (BBC’s The One & Only), and Zoe Birkett (Pop Idol).

sun 9 oct 7.30pm Magic, the first and still the best tribute to Queen, perform all of Queen’s greatest hits plus some you may not have heard for a while, in their latest show for 2011. While not attempting to emulate Queen visually, Magic creates all the excitement of a Queen show, performing completely live. Not to be missed!

ic r a ss a ck ul cl ro ac t ec sp

the ukulele orchestra of great britain tue 11 & wed 12 Oct 7.30pm Uniting music fans across the globe in celebration of one plucking thing after another on instruments bought for loose change. The Ukes appear on stage with one ukulele each, no gimmicks, no vocal enhancers or wizardry, then proceed to tear the house down. You’ll never think about music in the same way. 14

vampires rock

ralph mctell

thu 13 oct 7.30pm c g l

mon 24 oct 8pm

With a massive fan base, the country’s only musical rock theatre spectacular returns for another phenomenal tour. With a twist of rock and a hint of comedy, a full cast of superb singers, dancers and a formidable band blast their way through some of the greatest ever rock anthems you know and love - you’re guaranteed to be on your feet!

Award winning singer-songwriterguitarist Ralph McTell will be performing material from his recent album Somewhere Down The Road, plus several songs from his new Bob Dylan birthday tribute download Don’t Think Twice It’s Alright and of course songs from his extensive back catalogue, including his worldwide Ivor Novello award winning hit Streets of London.

the nutcracker tue 25 oct 7.30pm c l S The highly acclaimed Vienna Festival Ballet returns with one of Tchaikovsky’s world famous classical ballets The Nutcracker. The enchanting tale centres on the adventures of Clara and her nutcracker doll, which magically transforms into a princely soldier, as they battle the Mouse King and join the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Kingdom of Sweets.

roary the racing car wed 26 oct 1pm f Roary, the number 1 little race car zooms into the Grand Opera House York in a brand new live stage show! It’s the day of the ‘Champion of Champions’ race at Silver Hatch and Roary is all set to battle it out with Maxi, Cici, and all the other cars to win the race and lift the trophy! So who will win the race and be crowned the champion?

www.viennafestivalballet.com

the sensational 60s experience thu 27 oct 7.30pm g l Without doubt the most explosive 60’s show touring the UK. Original classics performed by 4 of the most popular bands of the 60s, starring The Tremeloes, Hermans Hermits, The Union Gapuk, and The Dreamers, hosted by Alan Mosca from Freddie & The Dreamers. Relive the past when pop music was at its very best.

sally morgan* psychic sally on the road wed 26 oct 8pm G Britain’s best loved psychic returns by overwhelming public demand and fresh from another great series of Psychic Sally on the Road on Sky Living. Sally brings her amazing abilities and tremendous personality to the stage with a unique theatrical experience. Sally Morgan has taken the UK by storm!

steve earle & the dukes (and duchess)

milton jones

feat. allison moorer

You know the weird bloke with the shirts from Mock the Week. As well as star of the Michael McIntyre Roadshow, the voice of 9 series for Radio 4 (including The Very World of Milton Jones and Another Case of Milton Jones) and all sorts of other radio and telly. Awards too. Youtube him or something. Back in York after two sell out nights.

sat 29 oct 7.30pm After many years touring solo and acoustically, Steve Earle is now touring in support of his new album his new album I’ll Never Get Out Of This World Alive with his highly celebrated, electric live band The Dukes (and Duchesses) featuring Allison Moorer.

lion whisperer sun 30 oct 8pm

one night shows

jerry sadowitz tue 1 nov 8pm c l Age 18+ Comedian, Magician, Psychopath! If you like Pol Pot, you’ll love Jerry Sadowitz! With his incorrigible smile and his propensity to hurl his underwear at female members of the audience, you’ll be so helpless with looking for the police, you’ll forget how much you paid to get in! Adults only. ‘The most exciting act in town’ Metro

jake & elwood fri 4 nov 7.30pm c g Jake & Elwood invite you to spend an evening in Chicago to witness masters at work as they explode on stage for their soul, rhythm and blues musical extravaganza! With the driving backbeat of the fabulous Black Rhino Band, the show features a feast of the much loved, world-renowned favourites including Everybody Needs Somebody, Sweet Home Chicago and more.

the ladyboys of bangkok

one night of elvis

wed 2 nov 7.30pm c g l

thu 3 nov 7.30pm

Fur Coats and French Knickers!

The remarkable tribute artist Lee ‘Memphis’ King will take you from the ’68 comeback special to the Vegas years accompanied by a big band. Lee was awarded the ultimate accolade of World Champion Elvis Tribute Artist and now he brings you the biggest Elvis show in the UK – a must-see for Elvis fans!

Seen by over 1 million people, this totally new show is a superb night out for all and features stunning costumes, gorgeous sets and a fantastic line up of show stopping numbers, hilarious comedy acts and a 16 strong beautiful Thai cast who just happen to all be men!

puppetry of the penis in 3d sat 5 nov 8pm c g l The astonishing ancient Australian art of genital origami is back with a brand new show and now amazingly in 3D. The audience will be given 3D glasses to wear; experiencing this head shaking, outrageously funny production as it’s never been seen before. ‘Dementedly good fun’ Vanity Fair

lee memphis king

kt tunstall Sun 6 nov 7.30pm Scottish singer-songwriter KT Tunstall comes to York on a solo tour, hot on the heels of her sold-out American solo tour this spring and the subsequent release of her acoustic mini-album, The Scarlet Tulip EP. Her set list will comprise songs from her extensive back catalogue, as well as a handful of tracks from the new album.

tom paxton mon 7 nov 8pm His songs are known and loved around the world: including The Last Thing On My Mind, Ramblin Boy, and Bottle Of Wine. His generosity to audiences and fellow musicians is renowned, and his passion for justice and the ties that bind people together is unwavering: for all this and more, Tom Paxton ranks as one of the most revered musicians of his generation.

Dave Gorman’s Powerpoint Presentation

the johnny cash roadshow

the vagina monologues

tue 8 nov 7.30pm

wed 9 nov 7.30pm c g l

Clive John and The Spirit Band present the only Johnny Cash show that matters. Delivering all the hits including The Ring of Fire, Boy Named Sue, Folsom Prison Blues and many of the duets Johnny and June were famous for including Jackson and Darling Companion, making this the finest celebration of The Man in Black.

Eve Ensler’s hilarious Broadway and West End smash hit is back, featuring a new all star cast including the brilliant Tiana Benjamin (Eastenders), the stunning Louisa Lytton (Eastenders, The Bill) and the sensational Wendi Peters (Coronation Street, Celebrity Masterchef). This is the ultimate girls night out.

gardeners’ question time

judy & liza

the live tour

thu 10 nov 8pm

fri 11 nov 7.30pm

The man behind Are You Dave Gorman? and Googlewhack Adventure returns with a brand new show. Always one of comedy’s most innovative thinkers this genre stretching performer is back, and for this brand new show he’s formed a double act, with a projector screen.

Your favourite gardeners live on stage for 1 night only! One of Britain’s most famous and endearing institutions is touring for the very first time. See resident chair Eric Robson with his panel of expert gardeners offering you their inimitable gardening expertise interspersed with their usual quirky humour!

sat 12 nov 7.30pm c l This dazzling production tells the turbulent tales of Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli against the backdrop of their infamous 1964 London Palladium concert. West End stars Lucy Williamson and Emma Dears belt out their most famous hits with uncanny accuracy, bursting with elusive star quality.

★★★★ ‘spellbinding’ what’s on stage 17

one night shows

essence of Ireland bigger & better tour

fascinating aida the cheap flights tour

roy orbison and friends thu 17 nov 7.30pm

sun 13 nov 7.30pm

mon 14 nov 7.30pm

The spectacular Essence of Ireland is back with their new show, and it’s bigger and better than ever! Now with their biggest and most talented cast of dancers, singers, and musicians, Essence of Ireland combines breathtaking dance routines with the very best of Irish music, and a touch of Irish craic.

Three times Olivier Award nominated and now a global internet sensation, Fascinating Aida are still Britain’s best comedy cabaret trio. This brand new show will include their infamous anthem to budget travel Cheap Flights as well as brand new songs. ‘hilarious’ daily telegraph

Following his untimely death, the music of Roy Orbison remains as vital as ever. In this fantastic celebration, Barry Steele, who received rave reviews in Rockin’ On Heavens Door brings the Big O back to life with hits including Only The Lonely, Crying and Blue Angel plus hits from The Shadows, Jerry Lee Lewis, and tributes to Billy Fury and Buddy Holly.

lee nelson live

mostly autumn

paul carrack

fri 18 nov 8pm

sat 19 nov 7.30pm

wed 23 nov 8pm

hello u blurb readin legend! Its Lee Nelson here from off ur tele + i’m coming to a town near u with my well new tour! its gonna b bigga + betta + funnier than my last tour + a lot fatter coz this time i’m bringing my best mate + fat legend Omelette! so don’t b a mug, stop readin this rubbish and buy urself a ticket!

The best band you have never heard. Since forming in 1996, 2010 Classic Rock Society award winners Mostly Autumn have garnered themselves a name for their outstanding live shows. Drawing on influences from the golden age of 70s rock, they have developed their own unique sound, with Deep Purple’s Jon Lord and BBC’s Bob Harris amongst their many fans.

Legendary Sheffield-born singer, songwriter and former frontman of Ace, Squeeze and Mike & The Mechanics is back on tour in the autumn following the success of his latest acclaimed new album A Different Hat. With a back catalogue of hits including How Long, Tempted and The Living Years, Paul’s marvellously soulful voice is known to millions around the world.

★★★★

mike harding

dominic kirwan

joe longthorne

sat 26 nov 7.30pm

sun 27 nov 7.30pm

wed 30 nov 7.30pm

An evening of songs, daft stories and monologues from the man once described as ‘The grandfather of alternative comedy’. With a couple of guitars and more than forty years of material to draw on, Mike will lead you into his own comic world with stories and songs that have had audiences collapsing with laughter from South Shields to Sydney.

Dominic Kirwan is widely regarded as one of the finest entertainers that Ireland has produced with his dynamic, vibrant performing style, coupled with his rich voice and wide repertoire. Through The Years has something for music fans of all ages, with a fresh look at the finest in Country, Pop, Traditional Irish music and of course his trademark show-stopping ballads.

Joe’s repertoire of voices is endless and includes hundreds of the world’s top singers, however he is best known for his impersonation of Shirley Bassey who has commented, ‘Joe can do me better than I can do myself’.

show of hands

beyond the barricade at christmas

chris addison

thu 1 dec 7.30pm With Miranda Sykes plus guest support Richard Shindell. After a busy 2011 of UK festival appearances, hot property band Show of Hands - 2010 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards double winners come to York on a major venues tour showing just why they have been showered with accolades. ‘One of the great English bands’ Peter Gabriel

fri 2 dec 7.30pm c g l This cast of past principal performers from Les Misérables bring you all the great songs and moments of the West End and Broadway musicals, featuring songs from The Phantom of the Opera, The Lion King, Chess and many more, including a few Christmas favourites.

Joe has received gold and platinum discs for his albums and enjoyed sell-out concerts at the Royal Albert Hall.

sun 4 dec 8pm Fresh from The Thick of It, Mock The Week, Have I Got News For You and his sell-out 2010 tour, the man who put the Chris Addison into ‘I see Chris Addison is touring again’, has written a brand new show, The Time Is Now, Again. Top-class stand-up from one of the classiest, toppiest stand-ups around. You should come and see him. ‘gloriously funny’ time out

coming soon - on sale now e k r u ie em pr

elo experience

omid djalili

sarah millican

sat 7 jan 7.30pm c g l

tour of duty

thoroughly modern millican

The Electric Light Orchestra Greatest Hits Tour. A group of talented musicians are currently touring UK theatres bringing the most popular songs of Jeff Lynne and the Electric Light Orchestra back to the stage. This show, currently wowing audiences up and down the country, is not to be missed www.elotribute.com

thu 19 jan 8pm Age 16+

thu 8 mar 8pm Age 16+

Multi award winning stand-up, television and movie star Omid Djalili is back on tour with his brand new comedy show.

After selling out all 120 dates on her debut tour, Sarah Millican is back on the road with a new show. Ever wondered how to make a home made treadmill? The practicalities of an orgy? Or what to do when you don’t like parties but do like party food? Wonder no more. If your glass is half full, she’ll top it up.

‘Right now, the Iranian Djalili is probably one of the most subversive, let alone funniest, comedians around’ The Guardian

Become a Group Booker and Save £££’s! Why not make your visit to the theatre an even better one by getting it together with a group and making the most of our fabulous Group Bookings service? Did you know, when booking 10 or more tickets you can receive the following benefits without deposit: Advanced notification and priority booking Generous savings per ticket Pre ordering of programmes and ice creams No booking fees Confirmation invoices to help you keep track Up to six weeks to pay This service is completely free. All you need to do is pick a show, pick up the phone and get booking! For advice on booking as a group or to get those tickets reserved, call the Group Sales Coordinator (Mon - Thu 10am - 3pm) on 0844 871 3044 or email yorkgroups@theambassadors.com

Highlights A selection of some of the savings available to groups: Legally Blonde

10+ 20+

£6 off per ticket £6 off per ticket plus 1 free per 20

The Jungle Book 10+ all seats £12 Schools £8 plus one teacher free per 10 children La Traviata / 10+ 1 in 10 free Madama Butterfly Schools £8 plus one teacher free per 10 students The Nutcracker

Dance Schools £10 per ticket

Puppetry of the Penis

10+

1 in 10 free

Aladdin 10+ all tickets £13.50 (off - peak) all tickets £14.50 (peak) 20+ all tickets £12.50 (off - peak) all tickets £13.50 (peak) 50+ all tickets £10.50 (off - peak) all tickets £11.50 (peak) Schools all seats £9 (off - peak) buy 10 get 1 free

the international smash hit musical comedy

As many tickets were soldalot AND MANY FOLKS DID LAUGHALOT This theatre did thinkalot And henceforth brought back Spamalot

NOW SEEN BY OVER ½ MILLION ACROSS THE UK! Audiences all around the world have been roaring with laughter since Monty Python’s Spamalot, by Eric Idle and John Du Prez, won the Tony Award for Best Musical in 2005. Spamalot tells the legendary tale of King Arthur and dcancelle the Knights of the Round Table and features a bevy( health +) safety (or possibly a brace) of beautiful show girls, witch burnings not to mention cows, killer rabbits and French people. The show features the hilarious songs He Is Not Dead Yet, Knights Of The Round Table, Find Your Grail and of course the Nation’s Favourite Comedy Song Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life Todd Carty aka Tucker, expert ice-skater and EastEnders stalwart stars as Patsy.

‘i felt i might actually die of laughter’ the independent

‘fantastic fun!’ The Express

‘laughalot’ the times

‘Glorious, irresistible silliness’ The Sunday Times

mon 20 - sat 25 feb Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm livecard best discount Half price on opening night c G l f s

0844 871 3024 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk

ellen kent returns with a puccini masterpiece

exhilarating live dance

Derek Block & Blackburn International Proudly Present an Ellen Kent Production

Starring the internationally acclaimed Ukrainian National Opera of Kharkiv.

BalletBoyz presents

Back by public demand, this is a sparkling new production directed by Ellen Kent with stunning designs by the renowned Ukrainian designer Nadezhda Shvets.

BalletBoyz is one of the most cheekily original and innovative forces in modern dance. Led by former Royal Ballet lead dancers Michael Nunn and William Trevitt, the company thrills audiences and critics the world over with its distinctive style, blending spectacular dance both energetic and graceful, with stunning music and film.

La Boheme is one of the most romantic operas ever written. It is a Puccini masterpiece and tells the tragic tale of the doomed, consumptive Mimi and her love for a penniless writer. This classic tale of Parisian love and loss, features many famous arias including Your Tiny hand is Frozen,They Call Me Mimi and Muzetta’s Waltz. The set reflects the Bohemian art of the period and is traditionally staged. Highlights include a colourful carnival scene, with street entertainers, gypsy dancers, a local band and Muzetta’s dog will also make an entrance.

Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

the Talent

‘This is contemporary dance, boy band-style. This is dance at its most riveting and fearless. Talent? I should say so’ The Independent on Sunday

thu 1 mar 7.30pm

sat 10 mar 7.30pm

LIVECARD Best discount £5 off top 3 prices

LIVECARD Best discount £2 off per ticket

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writing courses

after school magic club ! ew s n ick tr

Three new weekly writing courses, every Saturday, starting in October.

Writing for the Stage An introduction to the countless possibilities of writing for the stage, including talks, exercises, and group discussion. 12.15pm

Writing Musical Theatre Including a history and analysis of some of the greatest musicals ever written, we’ll help you determine the kind of show you want to write and the best way to go about doing it. 2.15pm

Stand-Up Comedy Discover your voice, develop your style and try something new in a relaxed, supportive environment at the Opera House. 4.15pm No experience/qualifications necessary. All courses aimed at enthusiastic beginners. Courses led by Chris Bush, an award-winning playwright, lyricist and director, and one half of musical comedy duo Bush & McCluskey. Best known for satirical fringe hit TONY! The Blair Musical. Sat 22 October to Sat 10 December 8 week courses (1 1/2 hour class per week per course)

The Magic Hatter’s School of Wizardry Professional children’s entertainer The Magic Hatter is bringing his popular Magic School back for a third term, with brand new tricks to amaze and amuse. For wannabe wizards aged 7 to 10 this is the perfect opportunity to learn an exciting new skill, whether conjuring with cards or dazzling with misdirection. Each young sorcerer will receive a mini magic kit of tricks and props to practice with during lessons, and to take home to continue their magical studies. ‘It’s so amazing, it’s a chance to do something new. how often do you get to do something like this? I give it 10 out of 10.’ Sam, aged 10. The next 10 week term starts on Wednesday 28 September at 4.30pm and costs £90 per child. Lessons are suitable for children aged 7 to 10, and suitable for complete beginners and those with magic experience already.

Cost £70 per course, if booked by 1 August (£90 thereafter) This includes the classes and additional 1 on 1 time as requested.

For more information or to book a place please visit our friendly Box Office, call 01904 678 701 or email LizzieRichards@ theambassadors.com.

To book or find out more information please email KateSmithson@theambassadors.com or call 01904 678 704

The Magic Hatter (aka Dan Wood) runs a busy children’s birthday party and events business. For more information visit www.magichatterbirthdays.co.uk

premium package

tours and venue hires

For a VIP experience why not purchase our premium package, available on selected top shows for just £20.

Backstage Tours

The Premium Package includes: ■ VIP hospitality ■ Access to top price seats for sold out shows ■ Private access to The Empire Room pre show and during the interval ■ Express bar facilities ■ A glass of wine, beer or soft drink on arrival ■ Complimentary hot drinks and cake during the interval

For more information please call 01904 678 704 or email katesmithson@theambassadors.com

venue hire

■ Free house programme (when available)

Our venue is available to hire for conferences, meetings and other events, or why not make a theatre trip even more special and book a private bar for a party or celebration?

■ Complimentary nibbles catered by local restaurant Melton’s Too.

Call 01904 678 700 for more information

■ Queue jumping privileges, should there be a signing.

For a list of participating shows visit our Box Office or email yorkboxoffice@theambassadors.com Please note, cost does not include the show ticket which must be purchased at the same time

Have you ever wanted to step on to the stage, or explore the dressing rooms? Are you interested in how things work here at the theatre? Tours of our venue are available for local groups and organisations. These can be arranged at a time to suit you and can be tailored to any specific need or interest.

pantomime auditions

goh gang

Are you aged 7 years or above?

Would you like to be in our gang?

Would you like to appear in this year’s pantomime Aladdin? CHILDRENS DANCE AUDITIONS Monday 19 September

We are looking for enthusiastic people to join our friendly team of volunteers at the theatre. Possible jobs include:

4.30pm - Babes Boys and girls aged 7 yrs and over (max height 5’2”)

Joining the Front of House team as a Welcome Host greeting people when they arrive at the theatre.

7pm - Seniors Boys and girls (min height 5’2”)

Becoming an Audio Describer, helping to open up the world of live theatre to blind and visually impaired people.

Pantomime dates Fri 9 Dec 2010 – Sun 1 Jan 2011

Face painting and running arts and activities before children’s shows. Postering and flyering for the marketing department – often in costume! In exchange for any help you can give us, we can offer you free tickets to shows, invitations to opening night parties, chances to meet the stars and more!

All candidates will be auditioned in groups and taught a short dance routine. Those auditioning should ensure that, if

For more information please contact Rocky on 01904 678 714, or email roxannaklimaszewska@ theambassadors.com

successful, they would be available to attend every rehearsal from Sunday 27 November, mainly after school and weekends. Please be aware that this is a competitive dance audition and those who are successful will be chosen to perform as dancers in the pantomime. Please note that these positions are unpaid.

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online www.GrandOperaHouseYork.org.uk (booking fees apply) telephone 0844 871 3024 is a combined 24hr Box Office and Ticketmaster number (booking fees apply)

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Book in person Box Office, Grand Opera House York, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW Mon-Sat 12noon-5.30pm, on performance days we close 15 minutes after the show starts and on Sundays and Bank Holidays we’re open 1 hour prior to performance times (priority is given to customers booking for that performance).

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by post Send us a cheque (with your card details on the back) made payable to The Ambassador Theatre Group Venues with a SAE to our address above with details of the performance and choice of seats (we’ll try our best to meet your requirements) plus your contact details. CONCESSIONS Shows with these symbols have the following concessions available:

Under 16s, Senior Citizens,

full time students, Reg Unemployed.

Groups of 10 or more.

LiveCard holders.

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Family (4 tickets max 2 adults)

Schools.

Children.

Guide dogs are welcome. Audio Described performances offered on selected shows see show pages for details.

A Sennheiser Infra Red Hearing System is available for people with hearing impairments. Please collect a headset from Front of House staff.

Concessions may be restricted to certain price levels and performances and can be withdrawn by management without notice. Only one concession can be applied at any one time and proof of status is required. Please call the box office for more information on different show discounts. restoration fund £1 from every ticket sold goes towards the restoration of the Grand Opera House York. The fund has so far paid for essential backstage improvements and repairs. Plans are in hand to improve on the heating and cooling in the auditorium. CARD CHARGES & TICKET COLLECTION Shows may have a credit/debit card fee applied in addition to the usual transaction and booking fees. For security, when purchasing tickets by card, the card used to pay must be presented on collection from the Box Office. access for all Grand Opera House York strives to offer equal access for all. Please advise us of your access requirements at the time of booking. Wheelchair spaces and level

access available in the stalls

For further information or assistance please leave a message on our Access Line on 01904 678 703 or email yorkboxoffice@theambassadors.com and we will call you back. CONDITIONS OF SALE Tickets cannot be exchanged or money refunded. FINDING US & PARKING The Grand Opera House York is situated in the centre of York, close to the river. The theatre is a 10 minute walk from the train station and a few minutes from the closest car park at Clifford’s Tower (marked on map above). Prices are correct at the time of going to press, however we reserve the right to change or vary at any time, all discounts are limited and subject to availability *Evenings of mediumship are not scientifically proven and are presented for education and entertainment purposes only.

PRICE BAND

Legally Blonde* Mon - Thu eves Wed mat Fri & Sat eves

£39.50 £29.50 £45

£18 £19 £20 £21

Time Gentleman Please

£29.50 £19.50 £35

£16 £17 £18 £19

All tickets £21

£22.50

The Johnny Cash Roadshow

£14 £15 £16 £17

All tickets £20.50

Colin Fry

All tickets £17.50

Reginald D Hunter

All tickets £21 All tickets £21

Justin Moorhouse

All tickets £16

Respect La Diva

£25.50

£23.50

£21.50

The Jungle Book

£16

£14

£12

£18.50

£17

The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

All tickets £20.50 £24.50

Roy Orbison

All tickets £20

Lee Nelson

All tickets £23.50 All tickets £22

£24

£22

£35

£30

£20

£15

Madama Butterfly

£35

£30

£20

£15

Keeler* Mon - Thu eves & Sat mat Wed mat Fri & Sat eves

£23 £19 £25

£20 £17 £22

£17 £14 £18

£14 £12 £15

£23.50

£18.50

All tickets £21 £13.50

Adults £15.50, children £13.50

Sally Morgan

All tickets £23.50

The Sensational 60s Experience

All tickets £23.50

Steve Earle

All tickets £32.50

Milton Jones

All tickets £18.50 All tickets £19

Jerry Sadowitz The Ladyboys of Bangkok

All tickets £21 £21

£19

£23.50

£21.50

£18

£16

Joe Longthorne

£23.50

£21 All tickets £19 All tickets £19.50

Aladdin* Previews Off peak Peak

All tickets £21 £11 £19 £20

£17 £18

£14.50 £15.50

*Premium Seats available at an extra £3 - £10 per ticket. Please note that many of the lower priced seats are restricted view.

La Traviata

£15.50

All tickets £16

Dominic Kirwan

Chris Addison

All tickets £20

Ralph McTell

All tickets £28.50

Beyond The Barricade

£19.50

£23 All tickets £19.50

Show of Hands

Vampire Rock

Jake & Elwood

All tickets £22.50

Judy & Liza

Mike Harding

All tickets £18.50

Russell Kane

One Night Of Elvis

All tickets £21

Gardeners’ Question Time

Paul Carrack

All tickets £29

Blackmore’s Night

Roary The Racing Car

All tickets £20

Fascinating Aida

£22.50

£17

Dave Gorman

Mostly Autumn

Straight No Chaser

The Nutcracker

£18.50

The Vagina Monologues

Essence Of Ireland

£23.50

£28.50

All tickets £20

Motown Greatest Hits

£37.50

All tickets £18.50

KT Tunstall

All tickets £19.50

FiMagic - A Kind of Queen

Tom Paxton

All tickets £17.50 £26

PRICE BAND Puppetry of the Penis

£19.50

Halfway To Paradise

Echo & The Bunnymen

Adults £13, children £10

Numberjacks

Ian Anderson

All tickets £28.50

Alan Carr

The Producers Mon eve Tue & Wed eves Thu eve & Sat mat Fri & Sat eves

Adults £15, children £10

West Side Story

Ambassador theatre group Grand Opera House York is operated by the Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG), who have a total of 39 venues across the UK, including 12 in the West End, and 27 regionally. ATG’s impressive portfolio of West End theatres includes Apollo Victoria, Comedy, Donmar Warehouse, Duke of York’s, Fortune, Lyceum, Phoenix, Piccadilly, Playhouse, Savoy, Trafalgar Studio 1 and Trafalgar Studio 2. ATG’s regional theatres include The Ambassadors Woking encompassing the New Victoria and Rhoda McGaw Theatres and the award-winning Ambassador Cinemas; Aylesbury Waterside Theatre; New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham; Theatre Royal Brighton; Bristol Hippodrome; Churchill Theatre Bromley; Edinburgh Playhouse; Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone; King’s Theatre and Theatre Royal, Glasgow; Grimsby Auditorium; Liverpool Empire; Palace Theatre and Opera House, Manchester; Milton Keynes Theatre; New Theatre, Oxford; Richmond Theatre; Southport Theatre; Regent Theatre and Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent; Sunderland Empire; Princess Theatre, Torquay; New Wimbledon Theatre and New Wimbledon Studio; Grand Opera House, York. ATG is also one of the country’s foremost theatre producers, in Britain and internationally. Current and recent ATG co-productions include The Misanthrope starring Damian Lewis and Keira Knightley; Legally Blonde, West Side Story, Guys and Dolls, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard, Spamalot and South Pacific.

More Shows More Savings Join LiveCard and get access to amazing ticket offers at The Grand Opera House York and in up to 39 Ambassador Theatre Groups venues across the UK. There are great 2 for 1 offers and priority booking, ensuring you get the best seats at the best price - all for £30! LiveCard now gives you:

EXCLUSIVE PRIORITY BOOKING at your home venue GREAT 2 FOR 1 OFFERS TICKET OFFERS IN UP TO 39 VENUES ACROSS THE UK OFFERS FOR WEST END SHOWS

2 for 1

Join now & start saving today! Call 0844 871 7633 Apply online www.atgv.co.uk/livecard Visit Grand Opera House York Box Office

2 for 1

Tickets £11 21