What's On Guide - Mercury Theatre Colchester

Saturday Night and Sunday Morning

You Can Always Hand Them Back

FREE THE ENERGY WONDER PASSION AMAZEMENT FUN IN YOU

WHAT’S ON GUIDE SPRING / SUMMER 2014

Call 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

WELCOME A very warm welcome to our season brochure for Spring/Summer 2014, with details of everything that you can see at the Mercury through to August, plus information about a whole year of Made in Colchester productions.

With outstanding audience and critical feedback for many of our home-grown productions, plus a record number of people visiting the theatre for the first time, I’m looking forward to building on the successes of 2013 with a cracking line-up of drama, music, comedy, dance and spectacle.

In May, we’re transporting you back to the 1950s with Saturday Night and Sunday Morning.

Directed by Tony Casement, whose recent Mercury hits have included Arsenic And Old Lace and Quadrophenia, this iconic story, remembered by many from the hit film starring Albert Finney, centres on the rise and fall of hard-drinking, double-dealing Arthur Seaton, and promises an evening of funny, sexy, hard-hitting drama.

Other Made In Colchester shows coming up in 2014 include You Can Always Hand Them Back, the UK premiere of a funny, touching musical comedy about grand-parenthood; a Mercury Young Company production of Pink Floyd’s The Wall; an adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s evacuee drama Friend or Foe; a chilling new production of Macbeth; and a laugh-out-loud re-imagining of Dracula!

02

There’s also a chance to see our most varied selection of visiting shows ever, including Moon on a Rainbow Shawl, The Fitzrovia Radio Hour and Flash - a Tribute to Queen.

We hope you’ll agree that our jam-packed schedule really does feature something to whet every appetite - so please do join us this year to take advantage of the vast array of talent we’ve got on offer here in Colchester!

With best wishes,

Daniel Buckroyd Artistic Director

P5

P8

P25

P10

P13

P17

P4

P12

DRAMA

NEW TALENT

PEER DIVIDED

Talawa Theatre Company in association with the National Theatre presents

MOON ON A RAINBOW SHAWL

Based on Henrik Ibsen’s masterpiece Peer Gynt Translated by Michael Meyer

By Errol John Directed by Michael Buffong

Tue 8 – Sat 12 Apr

Fri 11 – Sat 12 Apr

7.30pm / Thu 2.30pm & 7.30pm

MAIN THEATRE

Talawa Theatre Company and the National Theatre take Errol John’s ‘bruising, brilliantly witty play’ (Time Out) on tour after its critically acclaimed run in London in 2012.

Universally praised by critics and audiences alike, the original creative team have reunited to present John’s mesmerising and heart-warming masterpiece once more.

In Port of Spain, Trinidad, the snatches of calypso music, hymn tunes and drums are interrupted by the raucous celebrations of troops returning from war.

Here, neighbours drink, bawl, make love, look out for each other and crave a better life. But Ephraim is no dreamer and nothing, not even the seductive Rosa, is going to stop him escaping his dead-end job for a fresh start in England.

HHHH ‘I was spellbound … thrilled by one of the 20th century’s great neglected plays ... just go’ The Times

SEE DIARY FOR SPECIAL PERFORMANCES CAP

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS 4

Fri 6pm / Sat 2pm & 6pm

STUDIO THEATRE

“The moment of despair is the moment of hope….”

Money. Possessions. Power. Celebrity.

Peer gets them all as he rises from poverty to business tycoon and beyond, in a lifelong struggle to fight the forces of nature and find what it means to be yourself.

Ibsen’s epic drama is beautifully re-told in a fast paced mix of movement, music, devising and original text.

This is a Mercury Youth Theatre production, featuring members of our 14 – 18 year old groups. The Mercury Youth Theatre works to build and develop theatrical skills among its talented young participants.

£6 & DISCOUNTS

FAMILY

FAMILY

Scamp Theatre and Watford Palace Theatre presents

Colchester Scout and Guide Gangshow presents

PIRATE GRAN

IT’S MY LIFE

From the books by Geraldine Durrant and Rose Forshall Directed by Pieter Lawman Adapted by the Company

Wed 16 – Thu 17 & Sat 19 Apr

Fri 11 – Sat 12 Apr 1.30pm / Sat 10.30am and 1.30pm

Meet Gran. She bakes. She knits. You’d never guess she was a pirate!

‘Pirating isn’t the life for everyone, but Gran says if you don’t mind sleeping in a hammock and being called Scary Mary, then it’s a career more girls should think about.’

With a pet crocodile under her bed, a wicked sense of humour and a whole raft of adventures under her belt – time with Gran is never dull! Gran isn’t scared of anything. Not even monsters.

£8.50 & DISCOUNTS

MAIN THEATRE And then there’s Grandpa.

A magical swashbuckling story from the team that bring books to life. Previous productions include Stick Man – Live on Stage, Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales and Private Peaceful.

An absolute treat for seafaring children aged 3+ and their shipmates of all ages.

7.30pm / Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm

MAIN THEATRE

After last year’s successful show, Colchester Scout and Guide Gangshow return to the Mercury Theatre for a brand new show for 2014. It’s My Life follows the stories that a grandfather tells his grandson, from youth to the present day. A brand new young and dynamic production team bring their own unique style to the show, while keeping with the familiar format of singing, dancing and sketches.

This year, our return to a truly traditional Gangshow will showcase the talent of our amazing young cast.

Come and join the journey – the Gang look forward to welcoming you!

£8.50 & DISCOUNTS 5

COMEDY

LIVE MUSIC

COMEDY

AHEAD OF OUR COPRODUCTION OF DRACULA

JONGLEURS

PASADENA ROOF ORCHESTRA

Wed 23 Apr

Thu 24 Apr

Jongleurs Comedy Club Ltd presents

8pm

MAIN THEATRE

The world-famous comedy club at the Mercury for one night only, with another superb line-up from the best of the British stand-up circuit. During this hilarious evening three comedians and a compere will take to the stage to tickle your funny bone.

This is the perfect way to get your evening off to a hilarious start!

Suitable for 18+yrs.

Acts include Mark Maier, Colin Cole & Robert White.

Compered by Dave Ward. Line up subject to change.

7.30pm

From the growling trumpet and muted trombone to the wailing clarinet glissando over the steady throb of the rhythm section, the 11 piece band produce immaculately presented shows featuring all time classics from the great entertainers such as Louis Armstrong, Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire, Duke Ellington, Cole Porter and George Gershwin.

www.jongleurs.co.uk

£12 6

MAIN THEATRE

When it comes to authentic dance band and early swing music, the legendary Pasadena Roof Orchestra have no equal.

Seabright Productions and Fitzrovia Productions presents

THE FITZROVIA RADIO HOUR Fri 25 Apr 7.30pm

Blending homage and satire, Fitzrovia mixes the chauvinist attitudes of 1940s Britain with sharp contemporary humour to produce a spiffing evening of entertainment. Throughout the plays, sound effects are created live: a Bakelite hairdryer imitates a heating torch, a desk fan becomes an aeroplane, and multiple types of cabbage help to stage a fight scene! www.fitzroviaradio.co.uk Suitable for 12+yrs

£25 - £10

MAIN THEATRE

Recreating the unique spirit of 1940s radio plays, The Fitzrovia Radio Hour’s brand new show tours fresh from three critically acclaimed London residencies, and two sell-out years at the Edinburgh Fringe.

£25 - £10

DRAMA

FAMILY

DINOSAUR ZOO

The Future is Unwritten presents

ENGLAND AWAY A new play by Paul Hodson

Thu 24 - Sat 26 Apr

Sat 26 - Sun 27 Apr

Thu 9pm, Fri and Sat 7.45pm

STUDIO THEATRE

11am & 2pm

MAIN THEATRE

2001, the night before England thrash Germany 5-1. Four England fans meet for the first time on a campsite in Munich. Drink is drunk, songs are sung, secrets are exposed.

Direct from the West End, Dinosaur Zoo brings these awesome prehistoric creatures to the stage as you’ve never seen them before!

1945, Alf and Ted march through Europe for home, fighting fascism while dreaming of a new England.

From cute baby dinos to teeth-gnashing giants, observe and interact with these extraordinary life-like dinosaurs in this imaginative and hilarious live show.

Tonight, live on your stage, stand up comic Eddy Brimson offers a funny, hard-hitting insight on English society, football and comedy today.

But watch out - not all of these ravenous reptiles are as tame as they seem!

England Away is an upfront, comic play about passion, patriotism and ‘Englishness’ - what is it? What was it? What will it be? And will the England football team ever win anything ever again...?

‘PUPPET-TASTIC! Thoroughly entertaining. A delight’ Time Out

From the author of Meeting Joe Strummer, Way Out West and adaptor of Fever Pitch.

SEE DIARY FOR SPECIAL PERFORMANCES

£12.50 & DISCOUNTS

T

DINOSAUR ZOO | Master image | 30.4.13 Running time: 50 minutes (no interval) followed by a meet & greet with the dinosaurs.

‘Technical brilliance, cultural insight and enchantment all in one go’ Sydney Morning Herald www.dinosaurzoolive.com A tyrannosauric treat for all ages 3+yrs

£12.50 / DANGER SEATS £15 7

DRAMA

COMEDY

Salida Productions in Association with Assembly presents

The Out of Joint and Octagon Theatre Bolton co-production

OUR COUNTRY’S GOOD

FORMBY Performed and written by Ewan Wardrop

By Timberlake Wertenbaker

Directed and co-devised by Ed Hughes

Tue 29 Apr – Sat 3 May

Sun 18 May

7.30pm / Thu & Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm

MAIN THEATRE

Our Country’s Good is the powerful true story of a ragbag cast of convicts, who put on a play under the guidance of an earnest young marine officer. As the barriers between captors and captives break down, they start to discover each other, both onstage and behind the scenes…

Olivier Award: Play of the Year

25 years ago, Our Country’s Good premiered at the Royal Court Theatre before transferring to the West End and Broadway, winning major awards on both sides of the Atlantic. This new production by the play’s original director, Max Stafford-Clark, was hailed as a triumph.

HHHH ’Glowingly persuasive, Warmly recommended’ Independent

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS 8

MAIN THEATRE

Returning to the Mercury after a sell-out run in 2012 comes Formby, the story of George Formby and his rise from awkward stable boy to one of Britain’s biggest stars. In a unique one-man performance Ewan Wardrop plays the role of Formby, as well as all the key characters involved in this fascinating slice of his life.

New York Critics Circle: Best Foreign Play

HHHH ’Marvellous revival… Hilarious…

Desperately moving’ Mail on Sunday

HHHH ‘A consummate revival of a modern classic’ Guardian Recommended for 14+yrs.

SEE DIARY FOR SPECIAL PERFORMANCES

7.30pm

T

Formby is a funny, touching and thoughtful play of an essentially ordinary man with an extraordinary talent.

This sensational production features many of Formby’s classic hits brilliantly performed live by Wardrop on the ukulele, including: Blackpool Rock, Leaning On A Lamp-Post, When I’m Cleaning Windows, TT Races, and many more.

£25 - £10

THERE ARE SIX PEOPLE IN THIS PHOTO The financial support of the Friends of the Mercury Theatre make incredible moments, like this scene from Quadrophenia, possible. Friends donate between ÂŁ26 and ÂŁ500+, and get a host of benefits in return like priority booking, discounts in our bar, and access to special events.

Go to Support Us at www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

or call 01206 573948 9

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2014

DRAMA

SATURDAY NIGHTAND By Alan Sillitoe SUNDAY MORNING

Adapted by Amanda Whittington Cast includes: Hester Arden, Gina Isaac, Ian Kirkby, Patrick Knowles, Tim Treslove, Elizabeth Twells

ENJOY A FULL YEAR OF THEATRE FOR JUST £15 PER SHOW WITH OUR SILVER SEASON TICKET. See page 21

Fri 9 – Sat 24 May

Would you like to join a community chorus for this show?

If you are interested, email talent@mercurytheatre.co.uk

starring Albert Finney. Now Mercury favourite T Wed 14 May Tony Casement brings the tale raging back to life Performance times pages 30-31 MAIN THEATRE in a fast-moving new stage adaptation by critically BT Sat 17 May acclaimed writer Amanda Whittington (Be My Hard-drinking, double-dealing, womanising, Arthur Baby, The Thrill Of Love).

P Tue 20 May Seaton thinks he’s got it made, but he’s playing with Classic kitchen sink drama blended with highCAP Wed 21 May fire because now he’s got two women on the go at energy action and a toe-tapping soundtrack makes the same time. What’s more, everything could be S Thu 22 May about to change for Arthur and the women in his life this funny, sexy, heart-rending show a must see. following a bombshell revelation one night on the Approximate running time 2hrs including interval. TT Sat 24 May boardwalk.

Recommended for 14+yrs.

AD Alan Sillitoe’s ground-breaking picture of 1950s Britain Contains smoking and moderate sexual content. was immortalised in the award-winning 1960 film

10

7.30pm

TalkBack

11.00am

Backstage Tour

4.30pm

Page to Stage

7.30pm

Captioned Performance

1.30pm

Seniors Matinee

1.00pm

Touch Tour

2.30pm

Audio Described

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS £12 PREVIEW PERFORMANCES 9 AND 10 MAY, TICKET PRICES PAGES 26-29

DRAMA

FAMILY

HHHHH ‘An evening of rare, raw power’ The Independent

HHHHH‘Powerfully affecting’ Daily Telegraph HHHH The Times

Bravo 22 presents

Kazzum presents

THE TWO WORLDS OF CHARLIE F

NANA’S JUMBLE

Tue 27 – Sat 31 May

Thu 29 - Sat 31 May

7.30pm / Wed, Thu, Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm “My name is Lance Corporal Cassidy Little. I lost a limb whilst serving my country. I’m now starring in a UK touring show, telling the story of the real consequences of service, injury and recovery. Our battle for survival continues at home. Welcome to our war.”

The Two Worlds of Charlie F is a soldier’s view performed by real ex-service men and women. The show explores the effects of injury and its impact on others.

MAIN THEATRE Charity performance on 27 May. Top-price tickets £50 each, including a glass of champagne with the cast after the performance. Money raised goes to the Royal British Legion’s Bravo 22 Co, the theatre project for wounded soldiers.

The performance contains strong language, strobe lighting and loud bangs.

Recommended for 14+yrs.

A darkly comic, authentic and an uplifting tale of survival.

SEE DIARY FOR SPECIAL PERFORMANCES CAP

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS

11am, 2pm & 4pm

STUDIO THEATRE

Nana invites you to her local village jumble sale. She needs your help to declutter before she can move into her new home. Nana’s granddaughter, Josie, is there too, though she would rather be out with her friends than stuck with her old Nan. Forced together they discover that their lives will never be quite the same again.

Nana’s Jumble is a playful and interactive storytelling performance for children and their families. There’s tea and squash, a cake stall, and even a tombola! Nana encourages us to look at everyday objects differently as she shares tales from her adventures around the world.

No 4pm performance on Thursday.

£8.50 / £6.50 CHILDREN 11

DRAMA

DRAMA

The Original Theatre Company & Birdsong Productions Ltd presents

Colchester Institute presents

BIRDSONG

THE DEVIL IN DRAG

By Sebastian Faulks, Stage Version by Rachel Wagstaff Directed by Alastair Whatley

Wed 4 – Fri 6 Jun

Mon 2 – Sat 7 Jun MAIN THEATRE

7.30pm / Thu & Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm Marking the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War, Birdsong is the hit, critically acclaimed stage show based on the world famous novel by Sebastian Faulks. In pre-war France, a young Englishman Stephen Wraysford embarks on a passionate and dangerous affair with the beautiful Isabelle Azaire that turns their world upside down. As the war breaks out over the idyll of his former life, Stephen must lead his men through the carnage of the Battle of the Somme and through the sprawling tunnels that lie deep underground.

Faced with the unprecedented horror of the war Stephen clings to the memory of Isabelle as his world explodes around him. A mesmerising story of love and

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS 12

courage. Set both before and during the Great War. Following on from last year’s national tour, seen by over 75,000 people, now it is your chance to experience this stunning piece of theatre live on stage.

HHHH ‘It left me choked up and blinking back the tears at the end.’ The Daily Telegraph

HHHHH ‘A moving and stunning performance’ WhatsOnStage Recommended for 12+yrs www.birdsongthetour.com SEE DIARY FOR SPECIAL PERFORMANCES

T

7.45pm

STUDIO THEATRE

Students from Colchester Institute in the final year of their Extended Diploma in Acting perform The Devil in Drag by Dario Fo. A contemporary play but set in the 1500s the play concerns an incorruptible judge who is on the verge of revealing bad things in high places – including the church. A devil is employed to enter his body and corrupt him. However the devil mistakenly enters the wrong body – that of his aged housekeeper, Pizzocca. The plan is changed and the Devil/Pizzocca transforms herself into a beautiful woman, complete with inflating breasts, to play on the Judge’s weakness: lust.

Recommended for 12yrs+ Contains humorous sexual content

£8 & DISCOUNTS

COMEDY

COMEDY

Off The Kerb Productions presents

RBM presents

Sun 22 Jun

Sun 29 Jun

RICH HALL

7.30pm

MILES JUPP

MAIN THEATRE

Rich Hall’s critically acclaimed grouchy, deadpan style has established him as a master of absurdist irony and the king of rapid-fire wit, winning him fans all over the globe. The award-winning Montana native is renowned for his plain spoken growling indignation and acerbic observations which leave his audience hanging on every word. Perrier Award (Edinburgh Comedy Festival) and Barry Award (Melbourne International Comedy Festival) winner Hall has been described as a transatlantic messenger lampooning each country he visits with his common sense, and he is no less harsh to his homeland.

‘Now is the time to grab this chance to see the great man at work’ The Guardian

7.30pm

MAIN THEATRE

Actor, writer and comedian Miles Jupp is making a return to stand-up and going on his first live UK tour since the hugely successful Fibber In The Heat in 2012. In this show Miles will be discussing/ranting/describing: himself, you, domestic imprisonment, fatherhood, having to have opinions, hot drinks, the government, bad balance, housing, ill health, the ageing process, navigation, other people’s pants and, inevitably, a number of other things. It’s a man, standing on a stage, facing an audience, talking about some things and ultimately aiming to cover the cost of his white goods.

‘A tour-de-force of very British comedy’ The Telegraph HHHH 2014

‘Intelligent, passionate and angry comedy’ Evening Standard

‘A sharp and smartly structured show that should ensure Miles Jupp is the chap everyone will be talking of soon’ The Observer 2014

Suitable for 15yrs+

Suitable for 16yrs+

£16

£16 13

COMEDY

COMEDY

COMEDY

Avalon presents

Avalon presents

Avalon presents

Thu 19 Jun

Fri 20 Jun

Sat 21 Jun

JARLATH REGAN & MARK COOPER-JONES 8pm

STUDIO THEATRE

STEVE HALL & CARL DONNELLY 8pm

STUDIO THEATRE

Award winning comedian and writer, Jarlath Regan has a reputation for his uplifting, inventive and relentlessly funny stand-up, enjoying sell-out runs at the Fringe since 2007.

As a solo live performer Steve Hall has provided the support for Russell Howard on his sell-out national tours Adventures, Dingledodies and the 2009 arena tour Big Rooms And Belly Laughs.

Chortle Best Newcomer Nominee 2012, Mark Cooper-Jones is an exciting new stand-up comedian.

Much of his material is derived from his past experiences of teaching Geography – with a penchant for rules, countries and capital tests.

2013 Edinburgh Comedy Award Nominee Carl Donnelly is one the freshest and most distinctive acts on the circuit. His conversational style, hilarious anecdotes and observations on the state of the world and how we should be dealing with it - has been called “Gripping, unmissable stand-up” by The Guardian.

ED GAMBLE & LUCY BEAUMONT 8pm

2012 winner of The BBC New Comedy Award and Star of BBC Three’s Live at the Electric Lucy Beaumont tries out new material for her highly anticipated 2014 Edinburgh show.

Suitable for 14yrs+

£10 14

STUDIO THEATRE

Ed Gamble plods into town to plan what he is going to say in his debut Edinburgh show, with new jokes and stories in a certain order (yet to be decided). He has been on Russell Howard’s Good News, Dave’s One Night Stand and supported Greg Davies on a national tour.

Suitable for 14yrs+

Suitable for 14yrs+

£10

£10

COMEDY

Avalon presents

Avalon presents

Fri 27 Jun

Sat 28 Jun

PAUL MCCAFFERY & PHIL WANG 8pm

Corporate supporters make our work possible. Thank you.

COMEDY

STUDIO THEATRE

GARETH RICHARDS & MATT FORDE 8pm

STUDIO THEATRE

Paul McCaffery has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting new acts around, winning both The London Paper and the Latitude Festival new act competitions in 2009. In 2011 Paul took his debut solo stand-up show, Saying Something Stupid to the Underbelly, receiving great critical acclaim.

Winner of the 2010 Chortle Student Comedian of the Year Award, the Comedy Central Live Funniest Student Award 2011, and the current President of the prestigious Cambridge Footlights, Phil Wang is rapidly making a name for himself as one of Britain’s funniest Engineering undergraduates.

Suitable for 14yrs+

Come and see Gareth Richards (2010 Foster’s Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Newcomer nominee) try out brand new material in preparation for his 2014 Edinburgh solo-show. Gareth offers delectable comedy delights with his off-beat and unique style making him one to watch. Following the success of The Political Party shows in London and a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe this year, Matt Forde brings his sharp topical stand-up to the Colchester.

Having appeared on Have I Got News For You, This Week (both BBC 1) and Russell Howard’s Good News (BBC 3), don’t miss your chance to see this “first class comic” (The Guardian). Suitable for 14yrs+

£10

£10

Bang and Olufsen of Colchester thebestofcolchester Birkett Long Solicitors Colchester Institute DK Moriarty Limited Ellisons Solicitors Essex & Suffolk Water Scrutton Bland The Smile Clinic Ltd Thompson Smith & Puxon Solicitors WRS Insurance Brokers Ltd Barclays Bank PLC Beaumont Seymour & Co Bowling Garrard Electrical Capel Court plc CCS IT Ltd Constable VAT Consultancy LLP T J Evers Ltd Good Move Removals and Storage Hansen Lloyd Asset Management Holmwood House School Hutton Construction Ltd James & Lindsay Ltd Karelia Network Solutions Ltd Linklaters LLP Marsil Marine Ltd M B Training Systems Ltd Mosaic Publicity NatWest Bank Peyton Tyler Mears Plater Claiborne Purcell Quality Solicitors FJG St. Mary’s School for Girls

Strident Computer Systems Ltd Technology Means Business Ltd Website Design Ltd K Welham Ltd Whittle & Co Whybrows

Join us Corporate support is a great way to play an active role in your local community, and you receive benefits for your staff including free and discounted tickets.

For more information call Gill Oakley on 01206 577006 or email supporters@mercurytheatre.co.uk

15

DON’T HANG AROUND

DRAMA

Stage Write presents

LIVING WITH LUKE

L A V R E INT CAN BE S K PRE-ORDERED N I R D

By Paul T Davies

Wed 25 – Thu 26 Jun 9pm

STUDIO THEATRE

Danson Thunderbolt is no ordinary Dad, and his teenage son Luke is not so ordinary either. For Luke is autistic and the Autistic Shadow gets between them every single day, making communication a struggle. So what’s a Dad to do? Wrestle the Autistic Shadow that’s what! Join us in a real wrestling ring as Thunderbolt fights the Shadow- literally- to make contact with Luke and the Ref tries to keep control! Funny, poignant and real, the play is adapted from the blog Living with Luke, and fuses wrestling and theatre to show what life is like living with an autistic child.

Suitable for 14+.

Contains strong language –and wrestling!

£12 & DISCOUNTS 16

Did you know you can beat the rush for interval drinks and ice creams by placing your order at the bar or kiosk before the start of the performance?

The service is free of charge.Your drinks and ice cream order will be ready for you outside the auditorium at the interval.

Any questions? Please ask a member of staff!

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2014

MUSICAL COMEDY

Music and lyrics by Peter Skellern Book by Roger Hall

ENJOY A FULL YEAR OF THEATRE FOR JUST £15 PER SHOW WITH OUR SILVER SEASON TICKET. See page 21

Fri 13 – Sat 28 Jun Performance times pages 30-31

MAIN THEATRE

UK PREMIERE

With music from Peter Skellern (You’re a Lady, Stop The Week) and script by Roger Hall (Middle Age Spread, Conjugal Rites), You Can Always Hand Them Back is a heart-warming, laugh-outloud celebration of the heroes of any family - the grandparents.

Kath and Maurice, self-confessed old-duffers, are settling into a comfortable retirement. For Kath, however, there’s just one fly in the ointment – she wishes Show-stopping original musical numbers include they heard more from the kids. Well, that’s all about to Twice-A-Night Tinkle Tango, My Hearing Is change with the arrival of four nappy-wearing terrors!

Absolutely Fine, The Age Of Bewilderment, You thought the days of burping, bathing and and the bath-time favourite Don’t Let The Little babysitting were over, but it’s all come round again, and B*****d Get Away! this time the ‘Bank of Granny and Grandad’ is well and Approximate running time 2hrs including interval truly open too!

T

Wed 18 Jun 7.30pm

BT Sat 21 Jun 11.00am S

Thu 26 Jun 1.30pm

Talkback Backstage Tour Seniors Matinee

CAP

7.30pm

Captioned Performance

TT Sat 28 Jun

1.00pm

Touch Tour

AD

2.30pm

Audio Described

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS £12 PREVIEW PERFORMANCES 13 AND 14 JUNE, TICKET PRICES PAGES 26-29

17

LIVE MUSIC

DANCE

LIVE MUSIC

The Lorraine George School of Dancing presents

Sweeney Entertainments proudly presents

Sweeney Entertainments proudly presents

Fri 4 - Sun 6 Jul

Tue 8 Jul

Wed 9 Jul

SUMMER SHOW TIME ‘14 FLASH – LIVE IN CONCERT MOZART BY A TRIBUTE TO QUEEN CANDLELIGHT 7.30pm / Sun 1pm & 6pm

MAIN THEATRE

The Lorraine George School of Dancing is planning its very own round the world trip. Where will we go? What might we do along the way? How will we get there? We hope you will join us, as our talented pupils pack their bags and prepare to dance, sing and act their way around the globe. Friday night’s performance will be in aid of Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research.

Looking forward to seeing you there and sharing a trip of a lifetime!

7.30pm

MAIN THEATRE

FLASH have been paying homage to the world’s most theatrical and dramatic rock band since 1995.

Front man Scott Maley plays a uncannily realistic ‘Freddie’ with just the right look, stage persona and, most importantly of all, the most incredibly powerful voice!

Featuring an enormously talented band including Nathan Mathers who brings all the electric guitar virtuosity required to play a very convincing Brian May, their attention to detail is truly impressive.

‘Nice one Flash’ Janice Long – BBC Radio 2

£13.50 & DISCOUNTS 18

£25 – £10

7.30pm

MAIN THEATRE

Britain’s best-loved classical touring ensemble, the Locrian, present a musical tribute to the greatest of all composers.

Performing in lavish period costume, presented in front of a stunning classical set, these charismatic musicians perform many of Mozart’s most celebrated melodies. Starting from his early string works written when Mozart was a child prodigy, the programme also includes the effervescent Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, and features mature masterpieces such as the sublime clarinet quintet.

£25 – £10

LIVE MUSIC

LIVE MUSIC

Sweeney Entertainments proudly presents

JACKSON – LIVE IN CONCERT

SPECTACLE

EasyTheatres.com presents

World on Stage presents

IMMORTAL CHI

RAT PACK LIVE

A WARRIOR’S QUEST FOR HARMONY World Tour

Starring Ben and his incredible band and dancers

Thu 10 Jul 7.30pm

Fri 11 Jul MAIN THEATRE

Ben’s portrayal of Michael Jackson in his prime has to be the most vocally and visually accurate tribute to the King of Pop to have ever toured UK theatres.

Ben is joined on the stage by his incredible band and dancers who work their way through all the hits.

He’s got the look, the moonwalk and the voice! His renditions of Thriller, Beat it and Billie Jean are truly sensational.

Jackson – Live in Concert features all-live vocals and music, fabulous costumes and of course all the signature dance moves moves associated so fondly with the undisputed King of Pop. Pure MJ!

£25 – £10

7.30pm

Sat 12 Jul MAIN THEATRE

During their 1950s and 1960s heyday they were the definition of cool. The Rat Pack combined big band swing with charisma, panache and swagger. The show’s Dean played Dino in the West End, Sammy starred at the New York’s Rainbow Rooms and the show’s Frank gained rave reviews in the West End. Featuring all the patter and razzmatazz of the Rat Pack’s infamous live stage show, join the UK’s number one Dean, Sammy and Frank live concert extravaganza. Prepare to experience the definition of cool...

Together the talented trio combine superbly… spectacularly…”swingsationally” in Rat Pack Live.

£25 - £10

5pm & 8pm

MAIN THEATRE

Direct from China and created by the team behind the renowned Shaolin Warriors, Immortal Chi is a brand new spectacular fusion of jaw-dropping martial arts, amazing multi-media images, fabulous costumes and original live music.

This world-class team have created an original show incorporating traditional combat techniques and weapons, acrobatics, authentic Chinese instruments and stunning Chinese drum girls with a contemporary feel.

This show is a feast for all the senses. Conceived by acclaimed Cirque director Erick Villeneuve.

Immortal Chi is not just a show – it’s an experience!

£25 - £10 / CHILD £12.50 19

TAKE PART! www.mercurytheatre.co.uk Call 01206 573948 PLAY & SWAY FOR EARLY YEARS Tuesdays, 10.30am - 11.30am (term time only) £4 per child Make a rainbow or have tea with a tiger in our creative and fun-filled sessions for toddlers and their parents or carers. We welcome newcomers and each session is a stand alone class - there’s no need to book ahead.

Our drama sessions run during term time. Booking is essential and waiting lists may apply. Venues vary, so please call for further information.

After School Drama Club for 5-7years Mondays, 4.15pm - 5.15pm

Youth Theatre for 11-14years

DRAMA & STORY BUILDING FOR 3-5 YEARS

Tuesdays, 6pm - 8pm or Wednesdays, 6pm - 8pm

Tuesdays, 1pm - 2pm (term time only) £4 per child

Wednesdays, 7pm - 9pm or Thursdays, 7pm - 9pm

Share in your child’s imagination and help prepare them for school in our fun-packed sessions of games, activities and story building led by our specialist Early Years Practitioners.

This is a drop-in class - come and try us out.

ACT V Mondays, 10.15am - 1pm (term time only) £4.50 per session Our popular theatre group for older adults returns.

Each session includes movement, a range of theatre activities and a great opportunity to meet new people during the coffee break. Suitable for beginners.

20

DRAMA ACTIVITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Youth Theatre for 14-18years BT

BACKSTAGE TOURS

£6 per person Our backstage tours take you on stage and behind the scenes, to reveal how the Mercury Theatre produces the Made In Colchester Season. Tours last for approximately 1 hour.

Sat 17 May, 11am Sat 21 June, 11am Pre-booking is essential. Please notify us of any mobility issues at the time of booking.

If you would like to arrange a backstage tour for your group or school, please contact our Ticket Sales team on 01206 573 948.

SUMMER SCHOOLS 2014 The Mercury Theatre and Lakeside Theatre have teamed up to provide these outstanding activities for young people.

Create a Play in a Week for 7-11years Mon 11 - Fri 15 Aug, 10am - 3pm £75 per participant Are you ready for a fun and exciting challenge? Come and create your own play in just one week! You’ll work with professional theatre makers and be involved in devising the show, developing characters and performing on the Friday to your family and friends.

Fresh Play for 12-16years.

Tue 29 July – Sat 2 Aug, 10am - 4pm £100 per participant Working with a theatre director, you’ll learn how to create a performance and find out more about how the experts do it.

At the end of the week you’ll perform a fresh piece of theatre made by you.

E R ON TICKET T S A A E S E H 4 T G OFFER 201 N I Z A M A O T D E E N T ’ DOESN .

H T R A E E COST TH INGREDIENTS

FOR THE PERFECT NIGHT AT THE THEATRE

Top quality theatre Huge ticket discounts

A cracking present idea Social life = sorted!

Enjoyed the show? You can come along to a full year of theatre at the Mercury for just £15 per show, with our Made in Colchester silver season ticket!

Pay £60 for four shows or £75 for five. Offer includes any seat on any show from Monday to Friday. Free ticket exchanges mean you can reschedule if you can’t make the date you first choose.

Speak to a member of our ticket sales team or go online for more information.

NOT GOT YOUR MADE IN COLCHESTER SILVER SEASON TICKET YET? IF YOU’VE ALREADY SEEN EITHER DIAL M FOR MURDER OR BETTY BLUE EYES, YOU CAN STILL UPGRADE TO A SILVER SEASON TICKET - WE’LL JUST TAKE THE PRICE OF YOUR SHOW TICKETS OFF THE OVERALL COST.

21

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2014

THE WALL

NEW TALENT PINK FLOYD’S

THE WALL

By Roger Waters

Thu 21 – Sat 23 Aug 7.30pm / Fri and Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm We don’t need no education!

When Pink Floyd’s iconic double album burst onto the music scene in 1979, it caught the imagination of a generation with its epic rock score, including songs such as Another Brick In The Wall, and its heart-rending tale of the rise and fall of a rock star called Pink.

Following a hugely successful debut with Quadrophenia, the Mercury Young Company will be returning to the Mercury Theatre’s main stage in 2014. If you’re aged 16 to 25 years and want to be among the first to be involved, visit our website and fill out an online application form.

22

£12.50 – £10 TICKET PRICES PAGES 26-29

From its opening track, culminating in the sounds of a plane crashing and a baby crying, The Wall plunged its audience into a surreal journey through misunderstood childhood, troubled marriage, social isolation and,

MAIN THEATRE ultimately, to the brink of madness. It was and remains, without doubt, one of the most theatrical rock concept albums ever produced.

Now the Mercury Young Company returns to the stage, fresh from their 2013 sold-out stage adaptation of Quadrophenia, to bring Roger Waters’ extraordinary rock opera to life for a new generation. FIVE PERFORMANCES ONLY - book early to guarantee your seats!

Approximate running time 2hrs including interval

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2014

FAMILY

MICHAEL MORPURGO’S

Adapted by Daniel Buckroyd

ENJOY A FULL YEAR OF THEATRE FOR JUST £15 PER SHOW WITH OUR SILVER SEASON TICKET. See page 21

Fri 29 Aug – Sat 13 Sep

And when a German plane crashes on their farm the boys are plunged into a breathtaking Performance times page 30-31 MAIN THEATRE adventure and faced with a life-and-death moral dilemma.

A thrilling tale of extraordinary friendship from master storyteller Michael Morpurgo, the prize-winning author Our 2013 production of The Butterfly Lion was the Mercury’s biggest selling show ever, so book of War Horse and The Butterfly Lion. early to secure your seats for the latest Michael Evacuated from London at the height of the Second Morpurgo classic to hit the stage.

World War, David and Tucky can’t help feeling as though the fighting is a long way away from their new This production will be supported by education workshops for schools, looking at WW2, lives in the countryside. But then suddenly, one night, evacuation, and themes of loyalty and friendship. the skyline is lit up with gun flashes and the distant sound of bombing shatters their new found peace.

Approximate running time 2hrs including interval

T

Wed 3 Sep

6.30pm

TalkBack

P

Fri 5 Sep

10.30am

Page to Stage

BT

Sat 6 Sep

11.00am

Backstage Tour

P

Thu 11 Sep

1.30pm

Page to Stage

7.30pm

Captioned Performance

CAP

P

Fri 12 Sep

10.30am

Page to Stage

TT

Sat 13 Sep

1.00pm

Touch Tour

AD

2.30pm

Audio Described

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS £12 PREVIEW PERFORMANCES 29 & 30 AUGUST, TICKET PRICES PAGES 26-29

23

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2014

DRAMA

MACBETH

By William Shakespeare

ENJOY A FULL YEAR OF THEATRE FOR JUST £15 PER SHOW WITH OUR SILVER SEASON TICKET. See page 21

Thu 2 – Sat 18 Oct Performance times page 30-31

MAIN THEATRE

Shakespeare’s ultimate exploration of political ambition, and the extraordinary lengths to which one couple will go to secure their place in history, is brought chillingly to life at the Mercury this Autumn in a brand new production directed by Daniel Buckroyd.

Cut through the pageantry and sweep aside the supernatural and what you’re left with is a terrifying picture of a world in which the future of a nation, indeed the very humanity of the man and woman

24

at the heart of the unfolding political storm, hang on the fate of a single child. Will no one step forward to protect the innocent? After all, what’s the point of winning power today only to lose it ... tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow?

Screw your courage to the sticking place and witness Shakespeare’s bloody masterpiece.

T

Wed 8 Oct

7.30pm

Talkback

BT

Sat 11 Oct

11.00am

Backstage Tour

P

Tue 14 Oct

4.30pm

Page to Stage

S

Thu 16 Oct

1.30pm

Seniors Matinee

CAP

Captioned Performance 7.30pm

Approximate running time 2hrs 35mins including interval

TT

Sat 18 Oct

1.00pm

Touch Tour

Recommended for 11+yrs

AD

2.30pm

Audio Described

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS £12 PREVIEW PERFORMANCES 2 AND 3 OCTOBER, TICKET PRICES PAGES 26-29

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2014

COMEDY

MERCURY THEATRE COLCHESTER PRESENTS THE FITZROVIA RADIO HOUR IN

GLY! N I P RIP D FUN T OA GOO R H T

ENJOY A FULL YEAR OF THEATRE FOR JUST £15 PER SHOW WITH OUR SILVER SEASON TICKET. See page 21

Thu 30 Oct – Sun 16 Nov Performance times page 30-31

MAIN THEATRE

We interrupt the horror to bring you a message from our sponsors... Strike up a Soho Cigarette as we recreate a 1940s radio play and invite you to take the role of studio audience in a live broadcast of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, brilliantly evoking a dinner-jacketed age of casual imperialism and stiff upper lips.

Performed with cut-glass theatricality and backed by a phalanx of bizarrely created sound effects, the Fitzrovia

Radio Hour mixes the chauvinist attitudes of 1940s Britain with sharp contemporary humour to produce a heady comic cocktail.

Will Jonathan Harker escape Dracula’s clutches? What will become of the beautiful young Lucy? And why is that big grey wolf biting into a melon? Well, how are you supposed to create the sound of a person exploding? Get ready to applaud please…

5-4-3-2-1, we’re on air!

Running time approx 1hr 50 mins including interval

S

Thu 6 Nov

1.30pm

Seniors Matinee

BT

Sat 8 Nov

11.00am

Backstage Tour

Wed 12 Nov

7.30pm

Talkback

7.30pm

Captioned Performance

1.00pm

Touch Tour

2.30pm

Audio Described

T

CAP Thu 13 Nov

TT AD

Sat 15 Nov

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS £12 PREVIEW PERFORMANCES 30 AND 31 OCTOBER, TICKET PRICES PAGES 26-29

25

BOOK AT WWW.MERCURYTHEATRE.CO.UK BOOK AT WWW.MERCURYTHEATRE.CO.UK TICKET SALES Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester CO1 1PT

TEL EMAIL WEBSITE FAX

01206 573948 tickets@mercurytheatre.co.uk www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 01206 769607

Ticket sales opening hours Monday to Saturday, 10am to 8pm (Sundays and Bank Holidays from 90 minutes before a performance).

BUYING YOUR TICKET Just call, email or write to us – tickets can be bought by cash, cheque, theatre tokens and credit and debit cards. Tickets can be reserved without payment for five working days.

Book online at www.mercurytheatre.co.uk Print@home – You can collect your tickets from the ticket counter prior to the performance, have them posted for £1, or choose to print them yourself at home. Please be aware print@home prints one page per ticket.

BOOKING AND INFORMATION

26

Exchanging tickets – We will exchange tickets for another performance or give you a credit to the value of your seats for use at a later time, up to five days prior to the date on the ticket. Tickets must be returned to the Ticket Sales Counter. Unfortunately we cannot give refunds. We charge £1 per transaction for this service. No charge for season ticket holders.

Babes in arms – Due to theatre licensing regulations everyone must be issued with a ticket, regardless of age.

WITH NO BOOKING FEE DISCOUNTS £10/£12 concessions available in most seats for over 60s, jobseekers, students and under 26s available Monday to Friday and matinees for all Made in Colchester shows (excluding The Wall) and selected other performances. We also now offer discounts on all price bands for matinees of all Made in Colchester shows (excluding The Wall).

Job Seeker Standby £1 Job Seeker Standby tickets on matinees from one hour before performance. ID required.

School Groups All tickets £8.50 Mon-Fri, plus one free additional ticket for every ten purchased on Made in Colchester shows (excluding The Wall).

Cloakroom

Mercury Gift Vouchers & Theatre Tokens

Bags and coats can be left in a supervised cloakroom – payment by donation.

We sell Mercury Theatre Gift Vouchers and National Theatre Tokens. Please speak to the Ticket Sales Counter or see website for details.

Special Effects Warning If you are concerned about any special effects (strobe lighting, smoke, loud bangs etc.) sometimes used in productions, please call the Ticket Sales Counter on 01206 573948.

Refreshments Theatre Bar – the theatre bar is open 1 hour before the performance, during intervals and after the show. Tea, coffee and a wide range of drinks are on sale. You can avoid the interval crush by ordering your drinks before the show in the bar or at the kiosk.

Hire the Mercury Theatre Did you know that the Mercury can be hired for children’s parties (from as little as £50), conferences, meetings and events? A range of spaces, packages and prices are available. Please contact Carol Rayner for more details on 01206 577006 or carol.rayner@mercurytheatre.co.uk T Talk Back Join the cast after a performance to ask your questions. For dates see diary pages 30-31.

Kiosk – the foyer kiosk is open 45 minutes before the show and during intervals and sells a selection of ice cream and confectionery. Tea, coffee and soft drinks are also available.

S Seniors Matinees Seniors Matinee ticket holders can enjoy a preperformance FREE talk and tea or coffee at 1.30pm.

For dates see diary pages 30-31.

Only one discount can be applied to each ticket transaction.

Food @ The Mercury – open from 10am to late daily. Lunch and pre-show set menus and a delicious a la carte selection. Call 01206 368100 to book.

P Page to Stage Performance Discover more about the creative process in this free workshop. For dates see diary pages 30-31.

YOUR VISIT

Digby Gallery

Call the Ticket Office on 01206 573948 for times and to book your free place.

Group Discounts Groups of 10+ get £2 off per ticket on Made in Colchester shows excluding The Wall, the first two performances and the lowest priced tickets.

Car parking The Mercury Theatre offers discounted car parking exit tickets for our patrons who park in St Mary’s car park after 3pm. These can be purchased online, at the kiosk, bar or at the Ticket Sales Counter.

The Digby Gallery hosts a varied programme of exhibitions by professional artists and photographers connected with the region. There is also space for 3D work in a display cabinet. For details on exhibiting and for information about forthcoming exhibitions call 01206 573948 or email gallery@mercurytheatre.co.uk

27

BOOK AT WWW.MERCURYTHEATRE.CO.UK SEATING PLAN

ACCESS Tickets for disabled customers including those who have impaired sight or hearing and the person accompanying them are £8.50 for all Made In Colchester productions. Access tickets for all other shows £10 unless otherwise indicated. There is limited disabled parking under the front canopy for blue badge holders which operates on a first come first served basis. A lift situated along the corridor to the right of the Ticket Sales Counter is available for patrons who have trouble negotiating the stairs.

Q 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 Q P 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 O

8

M 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

8 8

K 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

8

35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

G

41 F

39 E

39 38 38 D

37

38

39

40 40

38 37 37 37 C

37 36 36 36

36

36 35 35 35

35

F 34 34 34

34 34

B A

33 33 33 33

8

E 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

E

D 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10

32 32 32 32

C

31 31 31

30 30

30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 B 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13

29

A 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 A

stage

6 5 7

12

6 7 8

9

13

6

F

11 12

H

7 G

D

C

B

11 11

4 K J

7

8

33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

6 5 L

7 8

G 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

M

6 7

8

36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

H

41

7 N 7

36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

J

42

O

N 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 L

H

P

33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

10 10 10

7

8 9 9

7 8

5

5

6 6 6

4

4

5

4

5

7

4

6

8

2

3

4

5

3

3

3

2

2 1

1

H

G

F

E

D

We welcome Assistance Dogs at all performances, please inform us when booking. The Mercury Theatre can accommodate up to 7 wheelchair users in the main auditorium with ample accommodation in the Mercury Studio Theatre.

Please state that you require a wheelchair space when booking.

C

B A

An infrared enhancement system is available in the main auditorium at all performances. Our system is suitable for use with or without a hearing aid through our specialised equipment.

Made in Colchester ticket prices Green Yellow Purple Blue Red Fri and Sat evenings £25.00 £22.50 £19.50 £15.00 £10.00 Wed, Thur evenings and matinees £22.50 £19.50 £15.00 £12.00 £10.00 Mon and Tue evenings £19.50 £17.50 £15.00 £12.00 £10.00 First two performances £12.00 £12.00 £12.00 £12.00 £10.00 This is an example seating plan. Seating plans vary, see our website or speak to one of our friendly Ticket Sales assistants for details. Ticket prices, particularly for preview performances, may change without notice.

28

RP Relaxed Performance Relaxed performances are for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment including people with an Autistic Spectrum Condition, sensory or communication disorders, or a learning disability. Audience members will be free to come and go as they please throughout the performance and make noise if they want to.

WITH NO BOOKING FEE

CAP

HOW TO FIND US Mercury Theatre Balkerne Gate Colchester Essex CO1 1PT

The Mercury Theatre is only one hour from London by car or train.

Following the theatre mask symbols on the road signs will take you to St Mary’s car park (CO3 3AA), which is a short walk across the Balkerne Hill footbridge to the theatre.

Captioned

Do you or someone you know enjoy theatre but find it difficult to hear what is being said?

Captioning converts the spoken word, songs and sound effects in to text on a caption unit on the stage. For dates see diary pages 30-31.

NORTH STATION

A12 LONDON

A134 SUDBURY

WAY WEST

COLNE BANK AVENUE

HA RW ICH RO AD

COWDRAY AVENUE

MERCURY THEATRE

ST MARY’S CAR PARK

JUMBO

HIGH ST

FIRSTSITE

A133 CLACTON

TOWN STATION SOUTH WAY

MAGDALEN ST

B1025 MERSEA

For a more detailed map please visit our website, www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

MERSEA ROAD

For access information please contact Carol Rayner on 01206 573948 or email access@mercurytheatre.co.uk

B1022 TIPTREE

CO WD RA YA VE NU E

CASTLE PARK

LEXDEN ROAD

Call 01206 573948

A12 IPSWICH

A137 HARWICH M’TREE

BALKERNE HILL

Please let us know of any requirements you or anyone in your party may have. We will do all we can to make your visit as enjoyable and as straightforward as possible.

NORTH

IPS WIC HR OAD

Audio described performances give you a live commentary about the action happening on stage through a pair of headphones. We also offer Touch Tours before each audio described performance, enabling you to explore the stage and get a feel for the costumes and set before the show starts.

For dates see diary pages 30-31.

TUR NER ROA D

AD Audio Description

29

DIARY April Tue 8 7.30pm Wed 9 7.30pm Thu 10 2.30pm 7.30pm Fri 11 7.30pm 1.30pm 6.00pm Sat 12 10.30am 1.30pm 2.00pm 7.30pm 6.00pm Wed 16 7.30pm Thu 17 7.30pm Sat 19 2.30pm 7.30pm Wed 23 8.00pm Thu 24 7.30pm 9.00pm Fri 25 7.30pm 7.45pm Sat 26 11.00am 2.00pm 7.45pm Sun 27 11.00am 2.00pm Tue 29 7.30pm Wed 30 7.30pm

Moon on a Rainbow Shawl Moon on a Rainbow Shawl Moon on a Rainbow Shawl Moon on a Rainbow Shawl Moon on a Rainbow Shawl Pirate Gran Peer Divided Pirate Gran Pirate Gran Peer Divided Moon on a Rainbow Shawl Peer Divided Colchester Gangshow Colchester Gangshow Colchester Gangshow Colchester Gangshow Jongleurs Pasadena Roof Orchestra England Away Fitzrovia Radio Hour England Away Dinosaur Zoo Dinosaur Zoo England Away Dinosaur Zoo Dinosaur Zoo Our Country’s Good Our Country’s Good

May Thu 1 Fri 2 Sat 3 Fri 9 Sat 10 Mon 12 Tue 13 Wed 14 Thu 15 Fri 16 Sat 17 Sun 18 Mon 19 Tue 20 Wed 21 Thu 22 Fri 23 Sat 24 Tue 27 Wed 28 Thu 29

Fri 30

Sat 31

30

June 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm P 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm AD/TT 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 11.00am 2.00pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 11.00am 2.00pm 4.00pm 7.30pm 11.00am 2.00pm 2.30pm 4.00pm 7.30pm

Our Country’s Good Our Country’s Good Our Country’s Good Our Country’s Good Our Country’s Good Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Formby Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning Sat Night and Sun Morning The Two Worlds of Charlie F The Two Worlds of Charlie F The Two Worlds of Charlie F Nana’s Jumble Nana’s Jumble The Two Worlds of Charlie F The Two Worlds of Charlie F Nana’s Jumble Nana’s Jumble Nana’s Jumble The Two Worlds of Charlie F Nana’s Jumble Nana’s Jumble The Two Worlds of Charlie F Nana’s Jumble The Two Worlds of Charlie F

Mon 2 Tue 3 Wed 4 Thu 5 Fri 6 Sat 7 Fri 13 Sat 14 Mon 16 Tue 17 Wed 18 Thu 19 Fri 20 Sat 21 Mon 23 Tue 24 Wed 25 Thu 26 Fri 27 Sat 28

7.30pm Birdsong 7.30pm Birdsong 7.30pm Birdsong 2.30pm Birdsong 7.30pm Birdsong 7.30pm Birdsong 2.30pm Birdsong 7.30pm Birdsong You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 2.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 2.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 2.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back 2.30pm AD/TT You Can Always Hand Them Back 7.30pm You Can Always Hand Them Back

July Fri 4 Sat 5 Sun 6

7.30pm 7.30pm 1.00pm 6.00pm Tue 8 7.30pm Wed 9 7.30pm Thu 10 7.30pm Fri 11 7.30pm Sat 12 5.00pm 8.00pm

Summer Showtime 2014 Summer Showtime 2014 Summer Showtime 2014 Summer Showtime 2014 Flash - A Tribute to Queen Mozart by Candlelight Jackson Live!

Rat Pack Live Immortal Chi Immortal Chi

August Thu 21 7.30pm Fri 22 2.30pm 7.30pm Sat 23 2.30pm 7.30pm Fri 29 7.30pm Sat 30 2.30pm 7.30pm Sun 31 2.30pm

Pink Floyd’s The Wall Pink Floyd’s The Wall Pink Floyd’s The Wall Pink Floyd’s The Wall Pink Floyd’s The Wall Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe

6.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm Fri 5 10.30am 7.30pm Sat 6 2.30pm 7.30pm Sun 7 2.30pm Tue 9 6.30pm Wed 10 6.30pm Thu 11 1.30pm 7.30pm Fri 12 10.30am 7.30pm Sat 13 2.30pm AD/TT 7.30pm

Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe Friend or Foe

Fri 10 Sat 11

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm

Sat 1 Mon 3 Tue 4 Wed 5 Thu 6 Fri 7 Sat 8 Mon 10 Tues 11 Wed 12 Thu 13 Fri 14 Sat 15 Sun 16

October Thu 2 Fri 3 Sat 4 Mon 6 Tue 7 Wed 8 Thu 9

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm Fri 17 7.30pm Sat 18 2.30pm 7.30pm Thu 30 7.30pm Fri 31 7.30pm

Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Dracula Dracula

November

September Wed 3 Thu 4

Mon 13 Tue 14 Wed 15 Thu 16

Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth Macbeth

7.30pm Dracula 7.30pm Dracula 7.30pm Dracula 7.30pm Dracula 2.30pm Dracula 7.30pm Dracula 7.30pm Dracula 2.30pm Dracula 7.30pm Dracula 7.30pm Worlds Aids Day Gala 7.30pm Dracula 7.30pm Dracula 2.30pm Dracula 7.30pm Dracula 7.30pm Dracula 2.30pm AD/TT Dracula 7.30pm Dracula 4.00pm Dracula

KEY TalkBack discussion after the show P

Page To Stage Performance Discover more about the creative process in a free workshop

S

Seniors Matinee (With FREE Talk at 1.30pm & tea / coffee)

CAP Captioned Performance

AD Audio Described Performance TT Touch Tour of the set at 1pm

See www.mercurytheatre.co.uk for more information 31

Theatres are at the heart of our communities.

Let’s shout about how much that matters.

KEEP IN TOUCH www.facebook.com/mercurytheatre

When our Councillors are taking tough decisions about how to spend our taxes, they need to know how much we value our local theatre’s work and role in the community.

Twitter @mercurytheatre

My Theatre Matters! invites you to shout about how important your theatre is. We’ll be gathering your stories and building a collective voice to influence decision makers.

www.mercurytheatre.co.uk Call 01206 573948 Join our mailing list: tickets@mercurytheatre.co.uk

Theatres are at the heart of our communities. your voice heard.

All details in this brochure are Add your voice to the UK-wide campaign Let’s shout about how correct at the time of going to mytheatrematters.com press. Colchester Mercury Theatre much that matters.

Let’s tell them - my theatre matters!

Join the campaign and find ways to make

When our Councillors are taking tough decisions about how to spend our taxes, they need to know how much we value our local theatre’s work and role in the community.

My Theatre Matters! invites you to shout about how important your theatre is. We’ll be gathering your stories and building a collective voice to influence decision makers.

Let’s tell them - my theatre matters!

Join the campaign and find ways to make your voice heard.

Add your voice to the UK-wide campaign

mytheatrematters.com

Ltd reserves the right to make alterations where necessary.

Brochure design by Poulsen Selleck Printed by John Good Reg charity no 232387 Registered in England no 441035