Liverpool Empire Autumn 2016 Season Guide

SPRING 2015 AUTUMN 2016 BOX OFFICE 0844 871 3017 GROUPS 0844 871 3037

THE MUSICAL FOR ALL COMES HOME COMING TOTIME VENUE DATES MON 19 SEP - SAT 1 OCT

atgtickets.com/liverpool

Bkg fees apply *Bkg apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company's access charge.

WELCOME

DIARY Welcome to the autumn 2016 edition of our season brochure. You’ll find it

AUGUST

stuffed full of exciting productions

LAZYTOWN THU 11 - SAT 13 AUG

coming to the Empire over the

CREATIVE LEARNING SUMMER PROJECT

coming months!

WEST SIDE STORY THU 18 - SAT 20 AUG

Inside this brochure is everything you need to know when planning your perfect visit to our theatre.

Find out how to book a tasty pre-show meal in our Lime St Bistro (page 39), save money by ordering one of our bespoke packages in advance (page 40) or order interval treats

SEPTEMBER CHICAGO MON 12 - SAT 17 SEP BLOOD BROTHERS MON 19 SEP - SAT 1 OCT

from the comfort of your seat with Ordertorium.

OCTOBER

Add some real sparkle to your evening and book a place

ONE NIGHT OF ELVIS SUN 2 OCT

on the Ambassador Lounge’s exclusive guest list, where you’ll experience the luxury and glamour of our private hospitality suite (page 41) If you’re planning a group outing you could enjoy even bigger savings with discounts available on the majority of shows as well as a huge range of other benefits (page 6).

For our customers with additional access needs, we’ve planned a number of audio described, captioned and signed performances. There is also a relaxed performance during our pantomime, Snow White. Our in-house team can assist you with all of your booking needs (page 4).

On behalf of the whole team at the Empire, I thank you for your continued support of our venue. We do hope to welcome you back very soon.

WELSH NATIONAL OPERA

KISS ME, KATE WED 5 - FRI 7 OCT THE CARPENTERS STORY SAT 8 OCT SISTER ACT MON 10 - SAT 15 OCT THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW MON 17 - SAT 22 OCT PSYCHIC SALLY: CALL ME PSYCHIC TUE 25 OCT SING-A-LONG-A FROZEN WED 26 OCT SING-A-LONG-A GREASE WED 26 OCT

DIANE BELDING

THE AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD THU 27 OCT

GENERAL MANAGER

MUM’S THE WORD 2 FROM TODDLERS TO TEENAGERS

FRI 28 OCT ROY CHUBBY BROWN SAT 29 OCT

@LIVERPOOLEMPIRE

NOVEMBER

KEEP DANCING TUE 1 - SAT 5 NOV

FACEBOOK.COM/LIVERPOOLEMPIRE

LIVERPOOL_EMPIRE

QUEEN EXTRAVAGANZA SUN 6 NOV

THE FULL MONTY MON 7 - SAT 12 NOV

FEBRUARY 2017

GHOST - THE MUSICAL MON 10 - SAT 15 APR

FRANKLY SINATRA SUN 13 NOV

THE SIMON AND GARFUNKEL STORY THU 2 FEB

MOTOWN’S GREATEST HITS - HOW SWEET IT IS WED 26 APR

STAND BY ME SAT 4 FEB

BUDDY - THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY THU 27 - SAT 29 APR

JOHN EDWARD MON 14 NOV BIRKENHEAD OPERATIC SOCIETY TRUST

WHITE CHRISTMAS THU 17 - SUN 20 NOV THE CATHERINE TATE SHOW LIVE TUE 22 NOV JOSH WIDDICOMBE WHAT DO I DO NOW? WED 23 NOV THE SENSATIONAL 60s EXPERIENCE THU 24 NOV THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN SAT 26 NOV ENGLISH NATIONAL BALLET PRESENTS

NUTCRACKER TUE 29 NOV - SAT 3 DEC

DECEMBER SNOW WHITE SAT 10 - SAT 31 DEC

JANUARY 2017 SCOTTISH OPERA

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO THU 5 & SAT 7 JAN WHITNEY - QUEEN OF THE NIGHT SUN 8 JAN

SUNNY AFTERNOON TUE 7 - SAT 11 FEB MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET MON 13 - SAT 18 FEB THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE MON 20 - SAT 25 FEB

MARCH 2017

MAY 2017 ENGLISH NATIONAL BALLET PRESENTS

MY FIRST BALLET CINDERELLA FRI 5 - SAT 6 MAY THE WEDDING SINGER TUE 30 MAY - SAT 3 JUN

FUNNY GIRL TUE 7 - SAT 11 MAR

JUNE 2017

HALFWAY TO PARADISE THE BILLY FURY STORY MON 20 MAR

BARRY STEELE & FRIENDS THE ORBISON STORY TUE 6 JUN

CIRCUS OF HORRORS TUE 21 MAR

THE ELO EXPERIENCE THU 8 JUN

SAM BAILEY SING MY HEART OUT THU 23 MAR

THE DREAMBOYS FRI 9 JUN

ELLEN KENT PRESENTS

WONDERLAND MON 12 - SAT 17 JUN

LA BOHÉME FRI 24 MAR AïDA SAT 25 MAR

JUL 2017

ABBA MANIA FRI 31 MAR

THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME TUE 25 - SAT 29 JUL

APRIL 2017 RICK ASTLEY SAT 1 APR

NOVEMBER 2017

GREASE MON 3 - SAT 8 APR

WAR HORSE WED 15 NOV - SAT 2 DEC

LORD OF THE DANCE DANGEROUS GAMES MON 9 - SAT 14 JAN THE COMMITMENTS MON 16 - SAT 21 JAN EVITA TUE 24 - SAT 28 JAN RUSSIAN STATE BALLET OF SIBERIA

GISELLE MON 30 JAN SWAN LAKE TUE 31 JAN - WED 1 FEB

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW MON 17 - SAT 22 OCT

ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES

FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY

AUDIO DESCRIBED CHICAGO THE MUSICAL THU 15 SEP 7.30PM BLOOD BROTHERS THU 29 SEP 7.30PM SISTER ACT THU 13 OCT 7.30PM SNOW WHITE TUE 20 DEC 2PM THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO SAT 7 JAN 2017 7.15PM THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME WED 26 JUL 2017 7.30PM WAR HORSE TUE 21 NOV 2017 7.30PM

CAPTIONED BLOOD BROTHERS WED 28 SEP 7.30PM SNOW WHITE THU 29 DEC 7PM WAR HORSE THU 23 NOV 2017 7.30PM

SIGNED PERFORMANCES CHICAGO THE MUSICAL WED 14 SEP 7.30PM BLOOD BROTHERS TUE 27 SEP 7.30PM SISTER ACT WED 12 OCT 7.30PM THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW THU 20 OCT 8PM SNOW WHITE WED 21 DEC 7PM THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME THU 27 JUL 2017 7.30PM WAR HORSE WED 22 NOV 2017 7.30PM

RELAXED PERFORMANCE

SPORTACUS, ROBBIE ROTTEN, STEPHANIE AND ZIGGY RETURN IN THEIR ALL-NEW STAGE SHOW FOR 2016 Go, go, go, get up LazyTown - to a brand-new, non-stop, interactive, energetic treat - jam-packed with singing, dancing, acrobatics, music and fun.

Robbie is at his rottenest, Sportacus at his super-active best. LazyTown engages, entertains and motivates children to make healthier choices.

Featuring No One’s Lazy in LazyTown, Bing Bang and Never Say Never. Suitable for ages 3 to 103!

‘BING, BING, BANGMON GET READY FOR NON-STOP 9 - SAT 14 MAY ACTION AND SUPER FUN.7.30pm LET’S GO’ MonHERO - Sat eves SPORTACUS Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G11 F- SAT S E13Details THU AUG page 43 Thu 4pm Fri 1.30pm TICKETS FROM £12& 4.30pm Sat 10.30am & 1.30pm £14.90 online/phone

SNOW WHITE WED 21 DEC 2PM

TOUCH TOUR

Online and phone bookings also carry E Details page(excluding 43 aCtransaction fee of £2.85 Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

TICKETS FROM £14.75

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO SAT 7 JAN 2017 6PM

£16.65 online/phone

To book for any of the above performances please contact the Access Officer on 0844 871 3037 (10am - 6pm, Mon - Fri) or e-mail liverpoolgroups@theambassadors.com Please note: A returnable £5 deposit or debit/credit card will be required for hiring Sennheiser headsets and loops

4

Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E

xx

www.lazytownliveuk.com

xx 0844 871 3017 atgtickets.com/liverpool atgtickets.com/theatrecard

LIVERPOOL EMPIRE CREATIVE LEARNING SUMMER PROJECT BASED ON A CONCEPTION OF

JEROME ROBBINS BOOK BY

ARTHUR LAURENTS MUSIC BY

LEONARD BERNSTEIN LYRICS BY

STEPHEN SONDHEIM ENTIRE ORIGINAL PRODUCTION DIRECTED AND CHOREOGRAPHED BY

JEROME ROBBINS Originally produced on Broadway by ROBERT E. GRIFFITH and HAROLD PRINCE by arrangement with ROGER L. STEVENS This amateur production is presented by arrangement with JOSEF WEINBERGER LIMITED on behalf of MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL of NEW YORK.

A cast of young people from the local area, working with a professional creative team will star in a vibrant production of one of the most beloved musicals of all time, West Side Story.

With ground breaking choreography by the legendary Jerome Robbins, book by Arthur Laurents, an unforgettable score by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, West Side Story changed the face of musical theatre for ever.

The famous score includes such classics as Tonight, America, Maria, I Feel Pretty and Somewhere. Don’t miss the raw power and emotion of West Side Story, brought to you by the best of local talent.

THU 18 - SAT 20 AUG Thu - Sat eves 7.30pm Sat mat 2.30pm EARLY BOOKING OFFER £5 off book by 1 Aug G B E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £18.25 £21.15 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £6 off (Fri 19 Aug only)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard 5

ORGANISE A GROUP AND ENJOY FANTASTIC SAVINGS

THERE ARE GROUP SAVINGS ON THE MAJORITY OF SHOWS INCLUDING

ENGLISH NATIONAL BALLET’S NUTCRACKER THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW | SNOW WHITE THE COMMITMENTS | SUNNY AFTERNOON MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET | FUNNY GIRL EVITA AND MANY MORE!

Look out for shows marked with the G symbol throughout this brochure.

WE OFFER OUR GROUP BOOKERS A HUGE RANGE OF FANTASTIC BENEFITS A DEDICATED AND FRIENDLY VENUE -BASED GROUP SALES TEAM PRIORITY NOTIFICATION OF NEW SHOWS, WITH AN EXCLUSIVE BOOKING PERIOD RESERVE NOW AND PAY LATER NO BOOKING FEES, WITH TICKETS POSTED FREE TO YOUR DOOR RESERVATIONS CAN EASILY BE AMENDED AT NO ADDITIONAL COST PRE-ORDER DISCOUNTED ICE CREAMS AND CONFECTIONARY INVITES TO EXCITING LAUNCHES AND PREVIEWS 6

All offers and prices are subject to terms, conditions, availability and can be withdrawn without prior notice.

ENHANCE YOUR VISIT WITH

A MBA SSA D O R EX P ER I EN CE GROUP DISCOUNTS SEE PAGE 40

RED PACKAGE NORMALLY £15 GROUP RATE £10 PURPLE PACKAGE NORMALLY £45 GROUP RATE £40 VARIETY BOXES BLUE LABEL NORMALLY £15 GROUP £13 MON 9 - SATRATE 14 MAY Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm YELLOW LABEL C G F S£25 E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £14.90 online/phone Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

TO BOOK

SAVE 0844 WITH 871 YOUR CALL 3037 (Mon - Fri 10am E - 6pm) xx EMAIL OR

xx liverpoolgroups@ theambassadors.com atgtickets.com/theatrecard

‘THE SEXIEST MOST SENSATIONAL MUSICAL’ SUNDAY EXPRESS

‘MAKES ALL OTHER MUSICALS LOOK TAME’ DAILY EXPRESS

The international award winning Broadway and West End musical, Chicago, comes to Liverpool for one week only starring West End and Celebrity Big Brother star John Partridge (EastEnders) as Billy Flynn, Dancing on Ice winner and Coronation Street star Hayley Tamaddon (Emmerdale) as Roxie Hart and one of Britain’s most loved soap stars Jessie Wallace (EastEnders) as Matron ‘Mama’ Morton.

Based on events in the roaring 1920s, nightclub singer Roxie Hart shoots her lover and along with cell block rival, double-murderess Velma Kelly, fights to keep from death row with the help of smooth talking lawyer, Billy Flynn.

Created by the musical theatre talents of John Kander, Fred Ebb and legendary choreographer Bob Fosse, Chicago’s sexy, sassy score includes All That Jazz and Razzle Dazzle and is ‘THE SHARPEST, SLICKEST SHOW ON THE BLOCK’ The Times.

It would be a crime to miss it.

MON 12 - SAT 17 SEP Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off Opening Night (Prem, A & B), £5 off Tue - Thu (A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard 7

‘EXHILARATING

ONE OF THE BEST MUSICALS EVER WRITTEN’ SUNDAY TIMES

BILL KENWRIGHT PRESENTS

...THEIR DESTINY JOINED THEM TOGETHER

LYN PAUL RETURNS FROM HER WEST END RUN

‘THE DEFINITIVE MRS JOHNSTONE’ MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS

8

Photos include previous cast

THEIR LIVES WERE WORLDS APART...

THE MUSICAL FOR ALL TIME ‘A TRIUMPHANT EVENING UNMISSABLE AND UNBEATABLE’ THE SPECTATOR

★★★★★ ‘DAZZLING’ SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

BEST MUSICAL

★★★★★ ‘TERRIFIC’ SUNDAY EXPRESS

ALL MAJOR AWARDS

‘GRITTY, GRIPPING, SUPERB’ MAIL ON SUNDAY

Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi awardwinning Blood Brothers. Bill Kenwright’s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone. It has been affectionately christened the ‘Standing Ovation Musical’, as inevitably it ‘BRINGS THE AUDIENCE CHEERING TO ITS FEET AND ROARING ITS APPROVAL’ (THE DAILY MAIL).

Lyn Paul returns to the iconic role she has played many times in the West End, in fact she was the show’s final Mrs Johnstone when it closed at the Phoenix Theatre in 2012. Lyn also starred in Bill Kenwright’s tour of Cabaret with Will Young in 2013 and rose to fame as a member of the pop group New Seekers whose numerous number one hits include I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing which sold over 20 million copies.

The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True.

MON 19 SEP - SAT 1 OCT Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £13 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off Opening Night (Prem, A & B), £5 off Mon - Thu (A - C)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard 9

ANOTHER OP’NIN, ANOTHER SHOW

COLE PORTER’S

KISS ME, KATE 1940s Baltimore. And it’s op’nin’ night of a musical version of The Taming of the Shrew. Rehearsals are over, costumes donned and there’s a 10 minute curtain call. What you’re about to witness is a whole lot more than Shakespeare’s comic love story.

Full of wit, dance, show business and hit songs including Another Op’nin’, Another Show, Brush Up Your Shakespeare and Always True to You in My Fashion, Kiss Me, Kate will leave any Tom, Dick or Harry grinning from ear to ear.

Music and Lyrics by Cole Porter Book by Bella and Samuel Spewack Critical Edition by David Charles Abell and Seann Alderking

★★★★★ ‘SO HOT IT’S PRACTICALLY A FIRE-RISK’ THE GUARDIAN

WED 5 - FRI 7 OCT Wed - Fri eves 7.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £6 £7 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

wno.org.uk/kissmekate

0844 871 3017 atgtickets.com/liverpool 10

An all new production of the Broadway and West End smash hit musical comedy comes to the Liverpool Empire starring Alexandra Burke (X Factor, The Bodyguard).

Directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood, Sister Act is the feel-amazing musical comedy based on the smash hit movie starring Whoopi Goldberg and Maggie Smith.

Featuring original music by Tony® and 8-time Oscar® winner Alan Menken (Disney’s Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Newsies, Enchanted), dazzling dance routines and songs inspired by Motown, soul and disco, Sister Act is the funniest and funkiest musical around.

Come and see the habits hit the road again and why this fabulous family friendly show has been seen by more than 6 million people worldwide.

At matinee performances the role of ‘Deloris Van Cartier’ will be performed by Joanna Francis

MON 10 - SAT 15 OCT Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 £12.90 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off Opening Night (Prem & A) £5 off Tue & Wed (Prem, A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

11

& T S E I X E S E H T L L I T S H HH

T S E I N N FU HH

SHOW IN

T OWN

E V ENING S TA NDA RD

IT’S TIME TO RE-START THE PARTY!

12

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!

RICHARD O’BRIEN’S

★★★★★ ‘FRESH, SUBVERSIVE, ESSENTIAL’ DAILY TELEGRAPH SEP 2015

★★★★

STARRING

PAUL CATTERMOLE (S Club 7) EDDIE/DR SCOTT

STEVE PUNT (Punt & Dennis) AS THE NARRATOR

‘SHARP, SAUCY LOTS OF FUN’ LIVERPOOL ECHO

LIAM TAMNE

WITH (Phantom, The Voice) AS FRANK N FURTER DIRECTED BY CHRISTOPHER LUSCOMBE

MON 17 - SAT 22 OCT Mon - Thu eves 8pm Fri & Sat 5.30pm & 8.30pm

Following a record breaking run in February this year Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Show returns to the Liverpool Empire for one week only this October.

C G E Details page 43

Bursting at the seams with timeless classics, including Sweet Transvestite, Damn it Janet, and of course, the pelvic-thrusting Time Warp, Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Show is a non-stop party!

You have one more chance to see the world’s favourite rock ‘n‘ roll musical so book now before it’s too late.

Be warned, this show has rude parts!

DON’T DREAM IT BE IT! Photos include previous cast

TICKETS FROM £12 £13 online/phone Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups direct from venue)

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price Opening Night, £5 off Fri 5.30pm (Prem, A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

13

BREATHTAKING BALLROOM WITH TV STARS AND CELEBRITY DANCERS SPECIAL GUEST OLYMPIC SPORTSMAN

LOUIS SMITH

SPECIAL GUEST OLYMPIC SPORTSMAN AND WINNER OF STRICTLY COME DANCING, 2012

LOUIS SMITH

SPECIAL GUEST MUCH LOVED DANCER FROM STRICTLY COME DANCING

ROBIN WINDSOR

The Smash Hit Dance Extravaganza

INTERNATIONAL DANCE CHAMPION AND STRICTLY COME DANCING STAR

ANYA GARNIS

TUE 1 - SAT 5 NOV Tue - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm With TV dance stars and celebrity guests from Strictly Come Dancing, Keep Dancing features all of your favourite styles of dance in one fast paced, high energy show.

With dazzling costumes and breathtaking choreography, Keep Dancing is guaranteed to have you dancing into the night and having a Fab-U-Louis time.

TANGO WALTZ CHA CHA CHA SALSA AMERICAN SMOOTH ■ CHARLESTON ■ JIVE ■ SAMBA FOXTROT ■ PASO DOBLE ■ LINDY HOP ■ RUMBA ■

14

■

■

C G S Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £13 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price Opening Night, £5 off Wed - Fri (Prem, A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

WINNER! UK THEATRE AWARD BEST TOURING PRODUCTION

ANDREW DUNN

JOE ABSOLOM

CHRIS FOUNTAIN

GARY LUCY

LOUIS EMERICK

KAI OWEN

MON 7 - SAT 12 NOV Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm A British film about six out of work Sheffield steelworkers with nothing to lose took the world by storm! Oscar-winning writer Simon Beaufoy has adapted his smash hit film into an hilarious and heartfelt play that has not only been getting standing ovations every night, but also won the prestigious UK Theatre Award for Best Touring Production.

Featuring great songs by Donna Summer, Hot Chocolate and Tom Jones you really should... drop absolutely everything and book today!

‘TERRIFIC’ SUNDAY TIMES ‘CHUFFING BRILLIANT’ DAILY MAIL ‘EVERY INCH A WHOPPING HIT’DAILY TELEGRAPH

C G Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £13.90 online/phone Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price Opening Night (A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

15

A CHRISTMAS TREAT FOR ALL THE FAMILY

DIRECTED BY BENIDORM’S Make Christmas 2016 one that your whole family will remember book a visit to White Christmas The Musical and start the festive season in Broadway style!

It’s a must-see classic, now as a lavish new musical that the NEW YORK TIMES says to ‘PUT ON YOUR WISH LIST’. Based on the much-loved movie starring Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye, White Christmas The Musical tells the story of two ex-army pals who team up with a singing sister-act to put on a show to save a remote ski lodge in Vermont, which has fallen on hard times.

Come and enjoy this enduring tale of joy, love and goodwill, filled with timeless Irving Berlin songs, dancing and even snow!

‘THE SONGS ARE A PERPETUAL DELIGHT’ EVENING STANDARD

ELSIE KELLY

THU 17 - SUN 20 NOV Thu - Sat eves 7.30pm Sat - Sun mats 2.30pm FAMILY TICKET From £48 in person £55.60 online/phone plus transaction fee

C G F Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 £11.90 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR SAVE WITH YOUR E This is a non-professional production staged by the renowned BOST Musicals Written for the screen by Norman Krasna, Norman Panama and Melvin Frank Original stage production directed by Walter Bobbie Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin Book by David Ives and Paul Blake

16

Press quotes from previous production.

E

xx xx £2 off evening perfs

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

SCOTTISH OPERA PRESENTS MOZART’S CLASSIC

RUSSIA’S ACCLAIMED BALLET COMPANY RETURNS PERFORMED BY THE RUSSIAN STATE BALLET OF SIBERIA

SWAN LAKE Scottish Opera’s five-star production of Mozart’s irresistible masterpiece is directed by the great British baritone, Sir Thomas Allen, and is full of humour, subtlety and wit. Mozart’s bubbling, energetic score shows him at his theatrical best - with a true genius for getting to the heart of the drama, and each character.

The gorgeous period designs provide the backdrop for a comedy of social revolution and change that is as relevant today as ever.

THU 5 & SAT 7 JAN Thu & Sat eves 7.15pm FIGARO UNWRAPPED FRI 6 JAN 6pm Free event!

Visit website for more info C G F S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 £11 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Sung in Italian with English supertitles. Revival of the 2010 production

£10 off both eves (A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

From the impressive splendour of the Palace ballroom to the moon-lit lake where swans glide in perfect formation, this compelling tale of tragic romance has it all.

GISELLE The moving story of delicate Giselle is set to a glorious score. From the visual splendour of the rustic villagers happily gathering the harvest at the start of the story to the eerie moonlit forest haunted by beautifully drifting spirits, this production is unforgettable.

MON 30 JAN - WED 1 FEB Giselle Mon 30 Jan 7.30pm Swan Lake Tue 31 Jan 7.30pm Wed 1 Feb 2.30pm & 7.30pm C G F S B E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 £11 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price Opening Night, £7 off Tue & Wed eves (A - C)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard 17

★★★★★ ‘DAZZLING’ THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

‘CHRISTMAS-CARD PERFECT’ THE GUARDIAN

18

THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS BALLET FOR ALL THE FAMILY

NUTCRACKER

Over 100 dancers and musicians bring Nutcracker to life with exquisite dancing, beautiful sets and Tchaikovsky’s glorious score played live.

On a sparkling Christmas Eve in a frost-dusted Edwardian London, Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker doll discover a magical world, where she battles with the Mouse King and meets a handsome stranger. As the air grows colder, Clara and her valiant Nutcracker take a hot air balloon ride across London to the glistening Land of Snow where her adventure really begins.

From the sound of the orchestra tuning up, to the final bows and cheers, a trip to English National Ballet’s Nutcracker is an unforgettable Christmas treat.

‘ONE OF THE BEST NUTCRACKERS AROUND’ THE DAILY EXPRESS

‘A SATISFYINGLY MAGICAL WINTER TREAT’ METRO

Photo: Dancer Shiori Kase © Jason Bell. Art Direction and Design by Charlotte Wilkinson Studio

TUE 29 NOV - SAT 3 DEC Tue - Sat eves 7.30pm Thu & Sat mats 2.30pm C G F S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £13.90 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price Opening Night, £7 off Wed - Fri eves & Sat mat (A - C)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

19

HHHH

‘BIGGEST, BRIGHTEST, BOLDEST - AND THIS YEAR POSSIBLY ONE OF THE SNAPPIEST, TO BOOT’ ECHO (DICK WHITTINGTON 2015)

LEANNE CAMPBELL

AS THE WICKED QUEEN

20

JORGIE PORTER AS SNOW WHITE

LIAM MELLOR

AS MUDDLES

MIRROR MIRROR ON THE WALL, WHICH IS THE FAIREST PANTO OF THEM ALL?

HHHHH

SAT 10 - SAT 31 DEC

‘CHOCCA-BLOCK FULL OF GLITZ, GLAMOUR, SPECTACLE, FIZZ, BANGS AND WALLOPS’ PURPLE REVOLVER (DICK WHITTINGTON 2015)

Join us for a festive family adventure into an enchanted fairytale forest and meet all of your favourite characters along the way with this year’s spectacular pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Snow White stars TV favourite Jorgie Porter in the title role, Radio City 96.7’s Leanne Campbell as the evil Wicked Queen and Liam Mellor, back by popular demand as the lovable comic, Muddles.

Snow White is a dazzling fairytale of a pantomime guaranteed to melt everyone’s hearts; watch as the beautiful Snow White and her seven little friends attempt to defeat the Wicked Queen. Will Snow White meet her handsome Prince and save the day? Come along to the Liverpool Empire this Christmas to find out.

Spectacular sets, sparkling costumes, side splitting comedy and lots and lots of fun for the whole family to enjoy.

With tickets from just £11, book now for the best value panto in town!

Sat 10

2pm

7pm

Sun 11

1pm

5.30pm

Mon 12

No performances

Tue 13

11am

7pm

Wed 14

2pm

7pm

Thu 15

11am

7pm

Fri 16

11am

7pm

Sat 17‡

2pm

7pm

Sun 18

1pm

5.30pm

Mon 19

No performances

Tue 20

2pm

7pm

Wed 21

2pm†

7pm

Thu 22

1pm

5.30pm

Fri 23

1pm

5.30pm

Sat 24

12.30pm 5pm

Sun 25

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Mon 26

1pm

5.30pm

Tue 27

2pm

7pm

Wed 28

2pm

7pm

Thu 29

2pm

7pm

Fri 30

2pm

7pm

Sat 31

2pm

-

FAMILY TICKET FROM £45

‘ENTERTAINING AND HILARIOUSLY FUNNY. THIS SHOW SHOULDN’T BE MISSED’

In person at the Box Office, transaction fee applies to telephone and online bookings.

Selected perfs. (4 tickets, incl. at least 1 child).

TICKETS FROM £11!

THE GUIDE, 10/10 (DICK WHITTINGTON 2015)

† NEW Relaxed Performance. Specifically designed to welcome people who will benefit from a more relaxed environment, including people with an Autism Spectrum Condition, sensory and communication disorders or a learning disability. There will be a relaxed attitude to noise and movement with some small changes made to the light and sound effects of the performance.

*

SENIORS HALF PRICE Bands A - B only. Selected perfs.

C G F S B E Details p43 ‡ Jorgie Porter will not be appearing as Snow White on Sat 17 Dec *Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price (Prem, A - C) Excluding Sun 11 Dec mat and all perfs Sat 17 - Thu 29 Dec

atgtickets.com/theatrecard 21

THE SPECTACULAR DANCE PHENOMENON RETURNS

‘MAGNIFICENT TO WATCH’ EVENING STANDARD

Following phenomenal global success in 2015, Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games is back! Featuring new staging, cutting edge technology, new costumes and choreography, new music by composer Gerard Fahy, world champion acrobats and 40 of the world’s most outstanding young performers all directed by Michael Flatley, the show thrills audiences with its intoxicating mix of dance and music.

‘A GREAT NIGHT OUT’ SUNDAY EXPRESS

‘I’M BLOWN AWAY BY THE REMARKABLE TALENT AND ABILITIES OF THE GREAT CAST WE’VE GATHERED’ MICHAEL FLATLEY

22

MON 9 - SAT 14 JAN Mon - Sat eves 8pm Sat mat 2.30pm C G S Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £21.25 £25.15 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £7.50 off Tue - Thu (A)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

DIRECT FROM ITS WEST END TRIUMPH ‘A CLASSIC IS REBORN.

ALL OF THE EVITAS I HAVE SEEN OVER THE YEARS SEEM LIKE DRESS REHEARSALS FOR THIS ONE. IT HAS REACHED ITS APOGEE.

STUNNING’

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

‘GRIPPING’ THE TIMES

‘A GOLD-PLATED WINNER’ MAIL ON SUNDAY

‘SUPERB’ DAILY MAIL

BILL KENWRIGHT

BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH THE REALLY USEFUL GROUP PRESENTS

‘A MONUMENTAL SHOW’ SUNDAY EXPRESS

LYRICS BY

MUSIC BY

TIM RICE

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER

Following its smash hit run at London’s Dominion Theatre, Bill Kenwright’s production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Evita is set to thrill audiences once again across the UK. Telling the story of Eva Peron, wife of former Argentine dictator Juan Peron, Evita follows Eva’s journey from humble beginnings through to extraordinary wealth, power and iconic status which ultimately lead her to be heralded as the ‘spiritual leader of the nation’ by the Argentine people.

With more than 20 major awards to its credit, including the Oscar winning film version starring Madonna and Antonio Banderas, and featuring some of the most iconic songs in musical theatre, including Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, On This Night of a Thousand Stars, You Must Love Me, and Another Suitcase in Another Hall, this smash hit show truly promises to be THE THEATRICAL EVENT OF THE YEAR! Photos of West End cast

TUE 24 - SAT 28 JAN Tue - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed, Thu & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £13 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price Opening Night, £5 off Wed & Thu, £10 off Wed & Thu mat (Prem, A- B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard 23

EARLY BOOKING OFFER 24

FREE GLASS OF WINE OR BOTTLE OF BEER! VALID MON 16 AND TUE 17 JAN. BOOK BEFORE 31 AUG 2016*

*Not available in conjunction with any other offer or discount.

THE SMASH HIT MUSICAL DIRECT FROM THE WEST END

★★★★

‘SUBLIME. WONDERFULLY FUNNY’ DAILY TELEGRAPH

The Commitments is a fantastically feel good celebration of soul.

Direct from a phenomenally successful, record breaking run in London’s West End, The Commitments is based on the BAFTA award-winning film classic. The show received universal critical acclaim following its London World Premiere and was quickly hailed as a smash hit musical sensation.

The Commitments is the story of Jimmy Rabbitte, a young working class music fan, who shapes an unlikely bunch of amateur musicians and friends into an amazing live act, the finest soul band Dublin has ever produced. Placing a classified advert in a music paper, Jimmy auditions a number of wannabes before finalising the new line up who he names The Commitments.

The Commitments musical has been adapted from the novel

by Booker prize winning author Roddy Doyle himself.

Photos of previous cast

MON 16 - SAT 21 JAN Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £13 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price Opening Night, £5 off Tue - Thu (Prem, A- C)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard 25

‘A COLOURFUL AND CONTAGIOUS ROCK MUSICAL THE BEST OF ITS SORT SINCE JERSEY BOYS’ THE TIMES

WIN

BEST NNEERW MU OLIVIERSA ICAL WARD 2015

26

S

‘A BLAZING TRIUMPH. I SWEAR YOU’LL GET GOOSEBUMPS’ DAILY TELEGRAPH

★★★★★

DAILY TELEGRAPH | DAILY MAIL | FINANCIAL TIMES MAIL ON SUNDAY | SUNDAY EXPRESS

THE MULTI AWARD-WINNING HIT MUSICAL DIRECT FROM THE WEST END

Sunny Afternoon tells the captivating tale of how one of Britain’s greatest bands, The Kinks, rose to stardom.

Step into swinging 60s Britain and discover how The Kinks found their definitive sound that rocked a nation and influenced generations.

Featuring the iconic hits You Really Got Me, Waterloo Sunset, Dedicated Follower of Fashion, All Day and All of the Night, Lola, Sunny Afternoon and many more, this production fizzes with energy, and is a fresh new ‘GREAT BRITISH MUSICAL’ (THE TIMES) that will make your spirits soar.

With music and lyrics by Ray Davies (Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Music), a new book by Joe Penhall and direction by Edward Hall, Sunny Afternoon’s faultless musicianship and brilliant songs come together for a moving portrayal of The Kinks’ amazing journey during the youthful, rebellious 1960s.

TWO MIDWEEK MATINEES Production photos by Kevin Cummins from current West End production.

TUE 7 - SAT 11 FEB Tue - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed, Thu & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price Opening Night, £5 off Wed & Thu (Prem, A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

27

★★★★

‘A FEEL GOOD MUSICAL WITH A SOUNDTRACK TO DIE FOR’ INDEPENDENT

Following its success in the West End, Las Vegas and on Broadway, Million Dollar Quartet is coming to Liverpool!

This worldwide smash-hit musical is inspired by the famous recording session that brought together rock ‘n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time.

On December 4, 1956, these four star musicians gathered at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever. Million Dollar Quartet, written by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux, brings that legendary night to life, featuring a score of rock hits including Blue Suede Shoes, Fever, That’s All Right, Sixteen Tons, Great Balls of Fire, Walk the Line, Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On, Who Do You Love?, Matchbox, Folsom Prison Blues, Hound Dog and many more.

Don’t miss your chance to discover the true story of one unforgettable night that made rock’n’roll history!

28

MON 13 - SAT 18 FEB Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S B Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £14.90 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price Mon & Tue (Prem & A), £5 off Wed & Thu (A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

BROADWAY’S AWARD WINNING MUSICAL COMEDY BROADWAY’S WINNER OF BEST MUSICAL ‘A THOROUGHLY FEEL-GOOD, JOYOUS ROMP… PERFECT FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT’ THE EXAMINER

‘TAPPING FEET, GLITZY SETS AND COSTUMES, HAPPY-EVERAFTERS AND SMILES FOR DAYS’ VARIETY (Quotes for original Broadway production)

MON 20 - SAT 25 FEB Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm The winner of six Tony Awards including Best Musical, Thoroughly Modern Millie is based on the 1967 Academy Award-winning film, taking you back to the height of the Jazz Age in New York City, when ‘moderns’ including a flapper named Millie Dillmount were bobbing their hair, raising their hemlines, entering the workforce, and rewriting the rules of love.

From explosive tap numbers to a ‘Fred and Ginger’ dance routine on a window ledge, Thoroughly Modern Millie is a brilliantly funny and entertaining show for all the family.

BROADWAY’S SMASH HIT COMES TO THE UK

C G F S B E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £13 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off Opening Night, £5 off Tue - Thu (Prem, A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard 29

★★★★★

‘DON’T BELIEVE THIS FIVE-STAR HYPE? GO SEE FOR YOURSELVES... IF YOU CAN GET IN’ THE TELEGRAPH Hot on the heels of a record breaking, sold out West End run this ‘UTTERLY IRRESISTIBLE’ (THE SUNDAY TIMES) new production of Funny Girl is now coming to Liverpool.

Funny Girl brought global fame to Barbra Streisand 50 years ago and boasts some of the most iconic songs in film and theatre history, including People and Don’t Rain On My Parade. This ‘EXHILARATING’ (THE INDEPENDENT) musical tells the story of Fanny Brice, whose vocal talents and comedic ability see her rise from Brooklyn music hall singer to Broadway star.

Don’t miss your chance to see this ‘PHENOMENAL’ (THE TELEGRAPH), critically acclaimed production when it comes to the Empire for 1 week only in March 2017.

30

TUE 7 - SAT 11 MAR Tue - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £12.50 off Opening Night, £5 off Wed - Thu (Prem & A)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

OPERA & BALLET INTERNATIONAL PRESENTS ELLEN KENT’S OPERA FESTIVAL ELLEN KENT’S OPERA FESTIVAL WITH INTERNATIONAL SOLOISTS, A HIGHLY PRAISED CHORUS AND FULL ORCHESTRA

VERDI

AIDA

STARRING OLGA PERRIER THE INTERNATIONAL FRENCH SOPRANO AS AIDA AND LIZA KADELNIK THE CELEBRATED MEZZO FROM THE ROMANIAN NATIONAL OPERA AS AMNERIS† This tragic story of war, jealousy and revenge is traditionallystaged featuring a magnificent black stallion, temple dance and the classic Triumphal March with cascades of glittering gold and amazing fire performers.

‘VISUALLY AND VOCALLY GRIPPING FROM START TO FINISH’ THE INDEPENDENT

PUCCINI

LA BOHÈME

The tragic tale of the doomed, consumptive Mimi and her love for a penniless writer. The set reflects the Bohemian art of the period and will include a local brass band, snow effects and Muzetta’s dog.

‘AUTHENTIC, TENDER AND PASSIONATE’ DAILY TELEGRAPH Both operas are sung in Italian with English surtitles. †Cast subject to change. *Horse appearing in Aida

FR1 24 - SAT 25 MAR La Bohème Fri 7.30pm Aida Sat 7.30pm C G S Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £13 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £5 off (Prem & A)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard 31

‘THE NO.1 GREATEST MUSICAL!’ 100 GREATEST MUSICALS, CHANNEL 4

Don’t miss Grease, the No.1 greatest musical, as the original, electrifying West End production lights up Liverpool for just one week only!

Dust off your leather jackets, pull on your bobby-socks and take a trip to a simpler time as ‘bad boy’ Danny and ‘the girl next door’ Sandy fall in love all over again.

It’s the original high-school musical, featuring all the unforgettable songs from the hit movie including You’re The One That I Want, Grease Is The Word, Summer Nights, Hopelessly Devoted To You, Sandy, Greased Lightnin’ and many more.

So throw your mittens around your kittens and hand jive the night away with the show that’ll make you want to stand up and shout, ‘A-wop-bop-a-loo-bop, a-wop-bam-boom!’

‘IT’S ELECTRIFYING - GO, GO, GO!’ SKY NEWS

‘GREASE IS STILL THE WORD’ SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

32

MON 3 - SAT 8 APR Mon - Thu eves 7.30pm Fri 5.30pm & 8.30pm Sat 5pm & 8.30pm C G F S Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £14.90 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price Opening Night, £5 off Mon - Thu (Prem, A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

THE OSCAR-WINNING LOVE STORY LIVE ON STAGE IN A BRAND NEW PRODUCTION

B E L I E V E

OH MY LOV E, MY DA R LING...

I ’ V E H U N G E R E D F O R YO U R TO U C H BILL KENWRIGHT PRESENTS A NEW PRODUCTION OF THE TIMELESS STORY OF LOVE, DESPAIR AND HOPE

T B O O K A N D LY R I C S B Y

H

BRUCE JOEL RUBIN

E

M

U

S

I

C

A

L

M U S I C & LY R I C S B Y

DAVE STEWART & GLEN BALLARD

BASED ON THE PAR AMOUNT PICTURES FILM WRITTEN BY BRUCE JOEL RUBIN

Walking back to their apartment late one night a tragic encounter sees Sam murdered and his beloved wife Molly alone, in despair and utterly lost. But with the help of a phony storefront psychic Sam, trapped between this world and the next, tries to communicate with Molly in the hope of saving her from grave danger…

The Double Academy Award winning movie is a huge success story, both critically and at the box office, where it was the highest grossing film in the year of its release. It starred the late Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, Tony Goldwyn and Whoopi Goldberg and was directed by Jerry Zucker. Bruce Joel Rubin’s script won the Oscar® for Best Original Screenplay and Whoopi Goldberg won the Oscar® for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. The film’s most iconic and moving scene was famously performed to The Righteous Brother’s Unchained Melody, which also features in the musical.

Taking its inspiration from the classic movie, this innovative reimagining will feature an expanded book, new music and original staging.

MON 10 - SAT 15 APR Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £13 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price Opening Night (Prem, A & B), £5 off all perfs exc. Sat eve (A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard 33

‘A NEW MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA’ THEATER MANIA

Following sold out seasons in Tampa, Texas and Tokyo, the multi Grammy, Tony and Drama Desk Award nominated Frank Wildhorn’s Wonderland receives its UK and European première in this brand new British production.

MON 12 - SAT 17 JUN Mon Sat eves 14 7.30pm MON- 9 - SAT MAY Wed Sateves mats7.30pm 2.30pm Mon & - Sat Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 C G F FROM S E Details TICKETS £12 page 43 £13 online/phone TICKETS FROM £12

E N H A N C E YO U R V I S I T WI T H A D R I N K I N O U R S P E C TACU L A R P I A N O B A R , A R E L A XI N G E N V I R O N M E N T WI T H FA N TA S T I C V I E W S O F T H E C I T Y

34

Photography by Ben Fisher

Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction £14.90 fee of £2.85online/phone (excluding Theatre Card & Groups) Online andbooking phone bookings Per ticket fees may also also carry apply.. a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR

E SAVE WITH YOUR

Half price Opening Night, E £5 off Tue - Thu (Prem, A & B) xx atgtickets.com/theatrecard xx

The National Theatre’s internationally acclaimed production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time returns to Liverpool in July 2017.

Winner of 7 Olivier Awards and 5 Tony Awards® including Best Play, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time brings Mark Haddon’s best-selling novel to thrilling life on stage, adapted by two-time Olivier Award-winning playwright Simon Stephens and directed by Olivier and Tony Awardwinning director Marianne Elliott. This smash-hit production continues to play to sold-out houses in London’s West End and on Broadway and will thrill new audiences when it returns on this much anticipated tour.

Christopher, fifteen years old, has an extraordinary brain exceptional at maths while ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. He has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched and he distrusts strangers. When he falls under the suspicion of killing Mrs Shears’ dog, it takes him on a journey that upturns his world.

TUE 25 - SAT 29 JUL Tue - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed, Thu & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 £13 online/phone Online & phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups).

Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off Opening Night, £5 off Tue - Fri (A - B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard 35

SPECIAL EVENTS ONE NIGHT OF ELVIS

PSYCHIC SALLY: CALL ME PSYCHIC

SUN 2 OCT 7.30pm C TC TICKETS FROM £28.25† £31.15 online/phone* Lee Memphis King recreates the essence of the King The ’68 Comeback Special and the Vegas years with a combination of stunningly accurate vocals and incredible passion joined on stage by an 18 piece orchestra.

TUE 25 OCT 7.30pm M TICKETS FROM £25† £27.90 online/phone*

THE CARPENTERS STORY SAT 8 OCT 7.30pm G TC TICKETS FROM £22† £24.90 online/phone*

Funny, entertaining, sometimes heart breaking; the show celebrates her 8th year on the road. This is a fantastic and unique evening out not to be missed.

Book your tickets now to see this phenomenal psychic in action!

This production features the stunning vocals of star Claire Furley as Karen Carpenter with lavish arrangements from live musicians. Includes the classics (They Long To Be) Close To You, We’ve Only Just Begun, and many more!

SING-A-LONG-A FROZEN WED 26 OCT 3.30pm G ADULTS FROM £14† £15.90 online/phone* CHILDREN £10† £11.90 online/phone * A full screening of Disney’s Frozen, with Sing-a-long-a Princesses who will show you how to use your prop bag and warm up your voices! Get your little ones dressed up as their favourite character and remember YOU the audience are the stars!

THE AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD THU 27 OCT Doors 7pm TICKETS FROM £29.75† £32.65 online/phone*

SING-A-LONG-A

GREASE

WED 26 OCT 7.30pm F TC TICKETS FROM £14† £15.90 online/phone * This fully interactive screening of the classic film with on-screen subtitles is the one that you want!

The host will lead a vocal warm up judge a fancy dress competition and show you how to use your magic moments fun packs.

Age 5+

36

www.singalonga.net

This concert will offer a true homage to Pink Floyd, capturing and conveying the spirit as well as the sound alongside jawdropping staging to produce a show that is simply the Best Of The Best!

MUM’S THE WORD 2

ROY CHUBBY BROWN

FRI 28 OCT 7.30pm C G TC TICKETS FROM £20 £22.90 online/phone*

SAT 29 OCT 7.30pm TICKETS FROM £21.50 £24.40 online/phone* Chubby doesn’t hold back from sharing his outlandish views, sailing so close to the mark, even the most seasoned of fans will be left gob-smacked! As politically incorrect as ever, this live performance is the only place to catch the flamboyant comedian!

If easily offended please stay away!

Michelle Heaton (Liberty X) Gemma Bissix (EastEnders/ Hollyoaks), Rebecca Wheatley (Casualty), Polly Highton and Sarah Lawn star in this brandnew production of Mum’s The Word 2. One of the Nation’s favourites, Mum’s The Word laughs at the comedic horrors of bringing up children in this new and updated version of the hit show. Join the mums, now ‘older and wider’, on their continuing journey into their new parenting nightmare that is teenagers!

Both funny and emotional by turn, this is a wonderful evening out.

QUEEN EXTRAVAGANZA

CROSSING OVER WITH PSYCHIC MEDIUM

JOHN EDWARD

SUN 6 NOV Doors 7pm TICKETS FROM £29.75† £32.65 online/phone* Created and produced by Queen’s Roger Taylor, the Queen Extravaganza celebrates the 40th anniversary of Queen’s iconic album, A Night At The Opera, which produced classic tracks as You’re My Best Friend, Love of My Life, as well as the legendary Bohemian Rhapsody.

MON 14 NOV 7.30pm M TICKETS FROM £26.25† £29.15 online/phone*

FRANKLY SINATRA STARRING STEPHEN TRIFFIT

SUN 13 NOV 7.30pm C G TICKETS FROM £26.50† £29.40 online/phone*

John Edward uses his unique abilities to predict future events and connect people with loved ones who have passed on. Author of numerous critically acclaimed bestsellers, John has brought a fresh and honest attitude to the world of psychic phenomena.

Celebrating the centenary of Sinatra Live at the Sands, it’s the world’s No 1 Sinatra tribute.

With velvet vocals backed by the sound of big band swing including favourites Fly Me to the Moon, New York, New York and My Way. www.easytheatres.com

atgtickets.com/liverpool *(Bkg/trns fees apply) Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 or £4; events with a † carry a 1% per tickets booking charge when booking by credit or debit card in person.

37

SPECIAL EVENTS CATHERINE TATE

MAGIC OF MOTOWN THE REACH OUT 10TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

STARRING MATHEW HORNE TUE 22 NOV 7.30pm TICKETS FROM £30.75† £33.65 online/phone* In never seen before sketches, the tour will unite some of Catherine’s best-known characters from her hugely successful BBC series.

The cast will include ‘Nan’ Taylor; Irish nurse Bernie; Essex girl Sam and the return of a certain argumentative teenager…

Age Guidance 12+

JOSH WIDDICOMBE WED 23 NOV 8pm TICKETS FROM £19.25† £22.15 online/phone*

Josh Widdicombe, that guy from the TV comedy shows with the curly hair, is back on the road with a brand new tour. If you have seen him before live or on TV and enjoyed yourself then this is the show for you.

If you didn’t like him then it probably isn’t.

THE SENSATIONAL 60’s EXPERIENCE THU 24 NOV 7.30pm C TC TICKETS FROM £26.75† £29.65 online/phone * Returning by huge popular demand for one night only, 3 hours of pure 60s nostalgia.

Seven legendary names take to the stage and deliver to you a night never to be forgotten.

With the definite feel good factor this is the must see 60s show for 2016. Step back to when pop music was at its very best with the biggest and best line up to ever tour the UK. Hits include I’m Into Something Good, Out Of Time, Hippy Hippy Shake, Storm In A Tea Cup plus many more.

38

SAT 26 NOV 7.30pm C G TC TICKETS FROM £28.75 £31.65 online/phone* The legend of The Four Tops, Supremes, Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Lionel Richie and more continues.

Over 36 classics revived from a huge cast with gliterring costumes, dazzling dance moves and superb musicianship.

WHITNEY

QUEEN OF THE NIGHT SUN 8 JAN 7.30pm C TC TICKETS FROM £20† £22.90 online/phone * A stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time.

This award winning production features a stellar line-up, with rising West End star Rebecca Freckleton delivering a powerhouse performance as Whitney.

atgtickets.com/liverpool *(Bkg/trns fees apply) Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 or £4; events with a † carry a 1% per tickets booking charge when booking by credit or debit card in person.

BOOK NOW FOR PRE-THEATRE OFFERS 2 COURSES FOR £12.95* SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR ONE OFF SHOW SPECIALS

limestbistro@theambassadors.com 0151 702 7354 atgtickets.com/limestbistro EMPIRE THEATRE LIME STREET LIVERPOOL L1 1JE *Terms and conditions apply, subject to availability, see website for info.

THE AMBASSADOR EXPERIENCE THE AMBASSADOR THEATRE GROUP

GREEN

IS PROUD TO OFFER AN EXCITING

Buy a drink voucher in advance and save up to 20%

RANGE OF BESPOKE PACKAGES TO YOU, OUR THEATREGOER. THE AMBASSADOR EXPERIENCE GIVES YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE YOUR VISIT TO THE THEATRE EVEN MORE SPECIAL AND RELAXING

BY ORDERING IN ADVANCE AND SAVING MONEY.

£5

A DRINK AT THE BAR (175ml Glass of Chenin Blanc or Pinotage)

BLUE Treat yourself to the package that has it all in one tidy bundle.

£15 BE S T VA L UE

A DRINK AT THE BAR VARIETY BOX including: 187ml bottle of house wine Corkers Crisps, Dormen Coated Raisins OR Bottle of Water, Corkers Crisps, Dormen Coated Raisins, Beechdean Ice Cream A HOUSE PROGRAMME (or theatre gift if not available)

YELLOW

BOOK NOW AT THE BOX OFFICE

0844 871 3017

*

£25

Make your visit to the theatre even more special by treating yourself to a celebratory glass of bubbly.

A HALF BOTTLE OF PERRIER JOUËT CHAMPAGNE A BOX OF HANDMADE BELGIAN CHOCOLATES

WWW.ATGTICKETS.COM/

AMBASSADOREXPERIENCE

RED

£15

Discover our exclusive Ambassador Lounge where you can enjoy exceptional luxury and dedicated host service.

ENTRY TO THE AMBASSADOR LOUNGE WELCOME GLASS OF PROSECCO SAVOURY SNACKS OR Treat your child to ENTRY TO THE AMBASSADOR LOUNGE AN ACTIVITY PACK INNOCENT BUBBLES SWEET TREATS

PURPLE

£45

Pamper yourself with the full VIP treatment in our Ambassador Lounge. Luxury and glamour for a very special occasion.

ENTRY TO THE AMBASSADOR LOUNGE HALF BOTTLE OF PERRIER JOUËT CHAMPAGNE A BOX OF HANDMADE BELGIAN CHOCOLATES A HOUSE PROGRAMME (or theatre gift if not available)

40

*Calls cost up to 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

D O YO U WA N T T O B E A S TA R F O R T H E N I G H T ?

E N J OY G UA R A N T E E D TA B L E S E R V I C E

T H E L I V E R P O O L E M P I R E T H E AT R E I S

BY A HOST WHO WILL BE ON HAND

DELIGHTED TO OFFER A SPECIAL RANGE

T O C AT E R T O YO U R E V E R Y N E E D.

O F PAC K AG E S F O R O U R C U S T O M E R S I N THE A MBASSADOR LOUNGE .

PA M P E R YO U R S E L F W I T H A L L T H E L U X U R Y AND GL AMOUR OF THE RED L ABEL AND P U R P L E L A B E L PAC K AG E S . YO U W I L L B E O N

G O O N S P O I L YO U R S E L F !

I F YO U W O U L D L I K E T O B O O K A N Y O F T H E A M B A S S A D O R PAC K AG E S P L E A S E C A L L 08 4 4 87 1 3017 *.

T H E E XC L U S I V E G U E S T L I S T A N D E S C O R T E D T O T H E A M B A S S A D O R L O U N G E O N A R R I VA L .

Photography by Brian Slater. *Calls cost up to 7p per minutes plus your phone company’s access charge.

41

42 42

YOUR CHANCE TO GET INVOLVED IN A FULL SCALE PRODUCTION! Following the success of Legally Blonde we are holding open auditions for those aged 15 - 21 be part of our Youth Musical Theatre and Youth Dance Company.

We’re looking for great singers and performers to join our Youth Musical Theatre Group and enthusiastic dancers for our Youth Dance Company. Both groups will work towards a number of performances including a full scale production at the Liverpool Empire in August 2017. Auditions will take place in October 2016.

We are also recruiting for new members aged 7- 14 to join our weekly Junior Youth Theatre class starting in September 2016.

No audition necessary.

All performing arts groups work towards a number of performances under the guidance of industry professionals. It offers the young people the opportunity to experience a professional environment, preparing them for the world of work within the theatre industry and many of those involved go on to pursue professional careers in performing arts.

CONTACT US Natalie Flynn Creative Learning Manager natalieflynn@ theambassadors.com 0151 702 7337

Visit http://www.atgtickets.com/venues/liverpool-empire/ creative-learning/ for further information and to download an application form.

http://creativelearning.atg. co.uk/eventsworkshops /liverpool-events/

Liverpool Empire Creative Learning Department strives to provide educational opportunities such as backstage tours, history talks, careers days, holiday activities, after school clubs and show related workshops for adults and children to engage creatively with the Empire and the performing arts. The department regularly works with schools, colleges and universities from Liverpool and the surrounding areas, educating and inspiring the local community through theatre. Look for the E symbol throughout the brochure, and call for more information.

The Empire Theatre (Merseyside) Trust Ltd. Reg Charity No: 509458 (England)

Photo to left of page Youth Theatre Sister Act rehearsals: Brian Slater. Both photos at top of page by Jo Forrest (left Youth Theatre Legally Blonde, right Showstoppers 2016)

BOOKING INFORMATION ONLINE Book all shows 24hrs a day at www.atgtickets.com/liverpool (secure online bookings).

All bookings are subject to fees.

Payment Methods: Credit Card/ Debit Cards

BY PHONE All telephone calls are received through ATG Tickets on 0844 871 3017 (bkg fee) Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.

and branches of WHSmith, or by calling Tokenline on 0870 164 8800. www.theatretokens.com CONCESSIONS We offer discounts for senior citizens, people with special access requirements, students, children, the unemployed, and people with hearing, visual and mobility impairments for the majority of shows, on production of relevant ID. Always ask the Box Office at the time of booking as we cannot discount on tickets already purchased.

Open Mon - Sat 9am- 10pm, Sun 10am - 8pm. All bookings are subject to fees. Payment methods: Credit card/Debit cards. All calls are charged at national rate.

Shows with these symbols have the following concessions available

BOOK IN PERSON Call into our Box Office at the Empire on the corner of London Road and Lime Street, Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm (closes 15mins after performance starts on show nights, and opens 2 hours prior to performances on Sunday). Payment Methods: Cash, Credit Card/Debit Cards and Gift Vouchers.

S Schools discounts

Booking/Transaction fees may apply

BY POST Postal bookings are accepted and should be sent to the following address: The Box Office, Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool,L1 1JE. Payment Methods: Cheque, Postal Order, Credit Card/Debit Cards and Gift Vouchers. Cheques should be made payable to ATG London Ltd. Cheques must be received 3 weeks prior to the performance date.

GROUPS OF 10+ Call our Groups Hotline on 0844 871 3037 Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm for more information. Please note we operate a book now, pay later facility.

Visit our website specifically designed for the groups market www.atgtickets.com/groups THEATRE TOKENS We sell and accept national Theatre Tokens. They are unique theatre vouchers and can be used to see shows at over 230 theatres nationwide.

Available in values of £5, £10 & £20 with no expiry date.

Tokens can also be purchased at most Tourist Information Centres Design SWD swd.uk.com Print John Good Ltd

C General concessions G Group discounts F Family discounts

correct at time of printing, and is subject to change. Due to the varying nature of the shows and sets we cannot guarantee an unrestricted view from all seats at all times.

M MEDIUM/THERAPIST/ CLAIRVOYANT By attending this event you agree that you have sought the services provided of your own accord and understand that it is a holistic experiment and experience. The medium/therapist/ clairvoyant may give you information that could bring about a positive change in your life, but any changes that you make are your personal and legal responsibility. his brochure is printed on responsibly sourced T FSC® paper. Please continue to help the environment by recycling it.

B Early booking offers E Workshops and creative activity TC Theatre Card

Only one concession is applicable at any one time, please check for restrictions on special offers. All concessions are subject to availability and conditions and can be withdrawn at any time.

ATG THEATRE CARD ATG Theatre Card offers are subject to availability on selected seat prices and for a max. 4 tickets per Card. Please book early to avoid disappointment.

RESTORATION FUND The ticket price for certain shows may include a contribution of up to £1.50 to the theatre’s restoration fund. We are very grateful to our patrons for the financial help we receive through our restoration levy.

EMPIRE THEATRE TRUST The Empire Theatre is managed by The Ambassador Theatre Group (Venues) Limited on behalf of The Empire Theatre (Merseyside) Trust Ltd The Trustees are Terry Smith (Chairman) Lesley Marshall Prof. John Last CBE Tony Ensor Tony Thompson Pam McGaffney David Morgan (Secretary) The Trust is a registered Charity.

No. 509458 All information in this brochure is

AMBASSADOR THEATRE GROUP LTD Co-founded by Sir Howard Panter and Rosemary Squire OBE in 1992, the Ambassador Theatre Group Ltd (ATG) is the world’s number one live-theatre company with 45 venues in Britain, the US and Australia. ATG is among the most prolific and internationally recognised award-winning theatre producers in the world with co-productions in the UK, New York, across North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. ATG is the market leader in theatre ticketing services through ATG Tickets, LOVETheatre and Group Line. ATG’s portfolio of West End theatres includes the Apollo Victoria, Donmar Warehouse, Duke of York’s, Fortune, Harold Pinter, Lyceum, Phoenix, Piccadilly, Playhouse, Savoy and Trafalgar Studios 1 and 2.

In the US, ATG owns The Lyric Theatre and the Hudson Theatre on Broadway and ACE Theatrical Group (ACE), and in Australia ATG is leaseholder of and manages the Theatre Royal, Sydney, ATG’s first theatre in the Asia Pacific region. ATG has regional theatres in Aylesbury, Birmingham, Brighton, Bristol, Edinburgh, Folkestone, Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester, Milton Keynes, Oxford, Richmond, Southport, Stoke-on-Trent, Sunderland, Torquay, Wimbledon, Woking and York. ATG currently has offices in London, New York, Sydney, Mannheim and Cologne. Current and recent ATG co-productions include The Spoils, Dr Faustus, The End of Longing, The Maids, The Ruling Class, Oresteia, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, East is East, Richard III, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Jersey Boys, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Inala, Love Me Tender, Macbeth, The Hothouse, Passion Play, Posh, Jumpy and Constellations (Royal Court at the Duke of York’s), Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 The Musical, Legally Blonde the Musical, Monty Python’s Spamalot, The Rocky Horror Show, South Pacific, All New People, Ghost the Musical, Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker!, Being Shakespeare, The Misanthrope, West Side Story, Elling and Guys and Dolls. ATG has various production company initiatives/partnerships including Jerry Mitchell Productions, Theatre Royal Brighton Productions and Jamie Lloyd Productions. ATG also owns family entertainment and pantomime company, First Family Entertainment (FFE). ATG has a group partner company Sonia Friedman Productions (SFP), a West End and Broadway production company responsible for some of the most successful theatre productions in London and on Broadway in recent years. ATG is the majority shareholder of BB Group, a leading producer and promoter of premium live entertainment in Europe with a particular strength in touring musicals and dance productions throughout Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

43

21 15 100,000 £35

THEATRES ACROSS THE UK

Your ATG Theatre Card gives you a whole year of: Opening night offers

WEST END AND LONDON THEATRES

MEMBERS WORLDWIDE

FOR 12 MONTHS WHEN YOU JOIN BY

JOIN TODAY www.atgtickets.com/theatrecard 0844 871 7633 (Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge)

Your nearest ATG Box Office

Priority booking Ticket deals No extra fees to pay Free ticket exchange 10% off in all our bars Theatre talks and tours Restaurant and visitor attraction offers Complimentary cloakroom

RICHARD O’BRIEN’S

HALF PRICE

OPENING NIGHT MON 17 OCT £5 OFF FRI 21 OCT 5.30PM (PREM, A - B)

HALF PRICE

OPENING NIGHT MON 7 NOV (A - B)

*ATG Theatre Card benefits are subject to availability, please check with the venue or call 0844 871 7633. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge. Members can purchase up to 4 tickets at the Theatre Card price per performance and up to 4 drinks at UK venues in the Ambassador Theatre Group. Offers are subject to availability and cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions or offers. Additional booking fees may apply on selected music, comedy and named act events and on tickets to events at non ATG and ATG international venues. ATG reserve the right to withdraw benefits or related offers and without notice.

ATG Theatre Card current price is valid until 31/12/2016. For full Terms and Conditions please visit atgtickets.com