What's On Guide Summer 2015

E D I U G N O WHAT’S SUMMER 2015

Call 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

WELCOME If you’re anything like me, when you receive a new theatre brochure you have a flick through the whole thing before coming back to the welcome! So by now you may have seen an innovation we are very excited about - Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach is a summer show running throughout August in the main theatre. Friend or Foe director Matthew Cullum will create a wonderfully interactive treat, and with children’s tickets for £10 we hope to tempt many of you along.

In our Spring brochure I promised to update you on improvements to the heating and cooling in the main theatre. I’m delighted to say that we have secured £580,000 funding to completely refurbish the studio theatre and, yes, install new air handling equipment in the main theatre. By the time James and The Giant Peach opens in August, we expect that the temperature in our main theatre will be much improved!

Did you know the Mercury Theatre is a charity?

We raise over £3.4m each year to continue our work - £9,300 every day! - and we’re very fortunate that a third of that support comes from Arts Council England, Colchester Borough Council, and Essex County Council. For the rest we look to ticket and bar sales, Friends and supporters, and your donations. Thank you.

Even choosing to eat in Food @ The Mercury

supports our work and helps to keep a tradition of theatre in Colchester, dating back to Roman times, alive and thriving.

Look out for Lights Up!, our festival of new talent across four weeks in June. Do pick up a leaflet from the theatre today or go to mercurytheatre.co.uk/lightsup. Give it a go I hope you’ll be impressed by the talent on display, and if you’d like to stage a show yourself in 2016 you can express your interest on the website today.

Finally, I know that many of you appreciate the chance to buy discounted car parking with your theatre tickets. Due to changes at St. Mary’s car park, if you want to buy £1.50 parking from us in the future it must be purchased in advance, and we will send you a ticket to display in your windscreen. This means you can no longer buy or collect your parking ticket from us when you arrive pre-show. On the upside, the discounted parking is now available to our matinee customers! You can purchase your parking online when booking a show, or give us a call on 01206 573948.

I hope you enjoy the summer season at the Mercury!

Daniel Buckroyd Artistic Director Wherever you see a FRIENDS FIRST star, the show opens for priority booking to Friends of the Mercury from 10am on Tuesday 7 April, and goes on general sale 10am on Tuesday 14 April. Become a Friend from £26 to book the best seats and support the work of the Mercury!

See page 25, click Support Us on our website FRIENDS www.mercurytheatre.co.uk FIRST or call 01206 573948 Book from 7 April

2

DRAMA

Talawa Theatre Company present

ALL MY SONS

By Arthur Miller Presented in arrangement with Josef Weinberger Limited

Tue 14 - Sat 18 Apr 7.30pm, Thu and Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm It is 1947 and Joe and Kate Keller, an all-American couple, are living with the ghosts of World War II. Joe is a successful, self-made businessman, a loving family man and a pillar of the community. He is a partner in a machine shop building fighter plane parts. Joe and Kate’s happiness is clouded by one thing – their son is missing in action, presumed dead by all but his mother …

All My Sons is a searing investigation of honesty, guilt and the corrupting power of greed.

The play was Arthur Miller’s first success, establishing him as a leading voice in theatre.

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS

MAIN THEATRE

Talawa are the UK’s primary Black led touring theatre company. Michael Buffong is Artistic Director of Talawa. His recent credits include Moon on a Rainbow Shawl (National Theatre), All My Sons (Royal Exchange Theatre), and God’s Property (Talawa Theatre Company, Soho Theatre and the Albany).

‘A flawless production that … honours Miller’s ability to see things human’ The Guardian HHHHH Royal Exchange and Talawa Theatre Recommended for 12+yrs

OVER 60s £10

POST-SHOW TALK WEDNESDAY 15 APRIL T

3

MUSICAL COMEDY

Sell A Door Theatre Company present

AVENUE Q

Wed 22 - Sat 25 Apr Wed 7.30pm, Thu - Sat 5.30pm & 8.30pm Following five years in the West End (packed with mischief, bad behaviour and political incorrectness), this hugely entertaining show is hitting the road on a brand new tour!

Created by Jeff Marx and Robert Lopez (Co-creator of Book of Mormon), AVENUE Q is an irresistibly charming musical which tells the story of the loveable characters on a downtown New York street trying to make sense of life’s burning issues.

Hilarious, cheeky and uproariously entertaining, with a terrific batch of songs performed by a cast of hugely talented performers and puppets, AVENUE Q is the musical like no other.

4

£26.50 - £10

MAIN THEATRE Winner of the Tony Awards ‘Triple Crown’ for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, Avenue Q is part flesh, part felt and packed with heart.

‘The best musical of the decade’ Sunday Times ‘You’d be a muppet to miss it!’

Edinburgh Evening News HHHHH

HHHHH Sunday Times, Magic FM, Sunday Express, Absolute Radio and Smooth FM @AvenueQUKTour Contains strong language and sexual content Recommended for 14+yrs

TALK

FOOD@ THE MERCURY Open for food or drinks Afternoon teas 10am til late

Early evening set menus

Continental breakfasts Pre-show meals

ASK THE CANDIDATES

Lunches

Daily specials

Complete your visit with a pre-show meal?

Three course set menu just ÂŁ15.95!

Mon 4 May MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Come along to the Mercury Theatre to put questions to candidates from all of the main parties in Colchester competing for your vote in the 2015 General Election.

Chaired by elections expert and TV pundit Professor Paul Whiteley of the University of Essex, our big debate will take place just two days before the polls open!

This one-hour event is free to attend but booking in advance is essential. Questions can be left for the candidates when booking, or just come along to hear the debate.

In partnership with

Menus online at www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

FREE

For daily specials and bookings, call 01206 368100

5

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2015

BY MICHAEL FRAYN Director Daniel Buckroyd Designer Dawn Allsopp Lighting Designer Mark Dymock Sound Designer Poetical Machines Ltd Fight Director Paul Benzing Casting Director Marc Frankum CDG

6

FRI 1 – SAT 16 MAY

BANK HOLIDAY MATINEE

Performance times pages 30 & 31

MAIN THEATRE

As this rip-roaring farce unfolds at breakneck speed, the backstage dramas of a touring theatre company threaten to derail the show, with hilarious consequences.

Noises Off lifts the curtain on the ups and downs on-stage and behind-the-scenes as bungled romances collide with wayward sardines, forgotten lines and just a few precious egos!

A shambolic dress rehearsal limps to a frantic opening night in WestonSuper-Mare and then it’s downhill all the way to the Municipal Theatre in Stockton-On-Tees. Can director Lloyd hold the show together? (No) Will Selsdon stay sober long enough to make his entry on time? (No) Does Dotty know whether she is coming or going? (Absolutely not) The show must go on!

Winner of the Olivier and Evening Standard awards for Best Comedy, Noises Off is hailed as one of the greatest British comedies ever written.

It has delighted millions since it premiered in 1982.

Join us for a door-slamming, axe-wielding, trouser-dropping lineup of laughs to welcome the spring!

Approximate running time 2hrs 30 minutes, including interval

COMEDY DRAMA Cast includes

Dan Cohen (My Mad Fat Diary)

Sara Crowe Sarah Jayne Dunn Peter Ellis (The Bill) (Four Weddings (Hollyoaks) and a Funeral)

Louise Kempton David Shelley (War Horse (The White National Theatre) Queen)

Hywel Simons (The Bill)

‘Probably the most sidesplitting play ever written’ The Independent

Louise Jameson (Doctor Who)

Louis Tamone (Hollyoaks)

‘Noises Off gives a hysterical glimpse into life in touring theatre’ WhatsOnStage

T

Wed 6 May

7.30pm

Post-show Talk

Recommended for ages 12+yrs

S

Thu 7 May

1.30pm

Seniors Matinee pre-show talk

Contains some strong language

BT

Sat 9 May

11am

Backstage Tour

P

Tue 12 May

4.30pm

Page to Stage: Staging Comedy

CAP

Thu 14 May

7.30pm

Captioned Performance

TT

Sat 16 May

1.00pm

Touch Tour

AD

Sat 16 May

2.30pm

Audio Described

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS £12 PREVIEW PERFORMANCES 1 & 2 MAY, TICKET PRICES PAGES 26–29

7

LIVE MUSIC

LIVE MUSIC

Photograph Eric Richmond

DRAMA

GALA SHOW Photograph Andy Siddens

MIDGE URE AND INDIA ELECTRIC CO BREATHE AGAIN Mon 18 May

Mercury Theatre & present

7.30pm

8pm

MAIN THEATRE

In 1995 Midge delivered his fourth solo album, Breathe.

This album, with its Celtic feel, involved a plethora of acoustic instruments from uilleann pipes to mandolin alongside his trademark soaring electric guitar riffs.

After the successful reformation of Ultravox in 2009, Midge revisits his Celtic roots to perform Breathe in its entirety for the first time, ably accompanied by two musicians from India Electric Co. The show will feature a selection of other hits such as Vienna, Dancing with Tears in My Eyes, Fade to Grey and If I Was, as well as songs from his recent album Fragile.

£18.50 8

Vamos Theatre present

THE BRODSKY QUARTET

Wed 20 May

Tue 19 May MAIN THEATRE

Programme to include Schubert’s Death & the Maiden.

The Brodsky Quartet are the only quartet to combine a performing career at the top international level with a thirst for genre-bending collaborations with the likes of Elvis Costello, Jacqui Dankworth, Tunde Jegede and Björk. They have toured the great concert halls of Europe, Australasia, and North and South America, and continue to expand their incredible discography of over 60 CDs of the quartet repertoire.

‘The Brodsky Quartet is not just a great group. It is a genuine phenomenon, with a musical repertoire that is mind-blowing in its diversity.’ The Herald

£22.50 - £10

NURSING LIVES

7.30pm

MAIN THEATRE

When Flo learns that the hospital she trained at during the Second World War is being demolished, she decides to take one last look. Her illicit visit becomes a personal celebration of friendship, courage, adventure and romance. But is history ready to be re-written?

Set in the early 1980s the show takes us back to the hard-working, heart-breaking, swing-dancing world of the UK’s wartime hospitals. The production is wordless, telling its story through physical communication, a strong visual design and an original soundtrack. This is a humorous and poignant production from one of the UK’s best full mask theatre companies.

Recommended for 12+yrs

£22.50 - £10 & DISCOUNTS

A note from our Artistic Director about Nursing Lives I’m thrilled that Vamos Theatre are returning to the Mercury, two years since they last visited us with Finding Joy in the studio theatre.

In those two years, the world wars have been remembered in so many ways. I’m sure the poppies at the Tower of London stand out for many of us - and for me they were a powerful reminder that sometimes words just aren’t necessary. Nursing Lives is wordless, telling its story through physical communication, a strong visual design and an original soundtrack.

Flipping between 80’s Britain and a Second World War hospital, Nursing Lives has already attracted five star reviews across the country, with one newspaper saying ‘No words were necessary in Vamos Theatre’s magical production. It was a universally understood language of love and loss.’

We don’t often get the opportunity to share stories using full mask theatre here at the Mercury. I hope you’ll join us for something a little bit different and very special.

Daniel Buckroyd Artistic Director Mercury Theatre

DANCE

BRAND NEW SHOW BALLETBOYZ present

theTALENT Thu 21 - Sat 23 May 7.30pm BalletBoyz are back with a brand new show for 2015.

Under the direction of former Royal Ballet dancers Michael Nunn OBE and William Trevitt OBE, theTALENT has become one of the hottest dance tickets around boasting rave reviews and sell-out performances around the world.

This show features two new commissions from leading British choreographers, The Murmuring by Alexander Whitley and Mesmerics by Christopher Wheeldon.

Performed by the incredible all male cast of 10 dancers, theTALENT promises an evening of style, excitement and muscular grace.

£25 - £10

MAIN THEATRE ‘…like a smooth deep breath interrupted by a kick to the ribs’ (The Murmuring) Evening Standard ‘Mesmeric…moves bodies with an unfailing verve and wit’ Financial Times ‘A wonderfully bonded ensemble who move with passion and presence…’ The Times ‘A triumphant return for the prodigal sons’ TimeOut Recommended for 7+yrs

POST-SHOW TALK THURSDAY 21 MAY T

9

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2015 A Mercury Theatre Colchester & Salisbury Playhouse Production

BOOK & LYRICS BY HOWARD ASHMAN Director Gareth Machin Designer James Button Musical Director Richard Reeday Choreographer Nick Winston Lighting Designer David W. Kidd Sound Designer Alex Twiselton Fight Director Paul Benzing Voice and Dialect Coach Kay Welch Casting Director Charlotte Sutton

MUSIC BY ALAN MENKEN Based on the film by Roger Corman Screenplay by Charles Griffith Image: feastcreative.com

10

DRAMA MUSICAL COMEDY

WED 27 MAY – SAT 13 JUN Performance times pages 30 & 31 Mushnik’s Flower Shop is open for business as the monster musical Little Shop of Horrors takes over the Mercury Theatre with its feelgood mix of fun, flamboyance… and foliage.

Down-and-out shop worker Seymour becomes an overnight sensation when he raises a plant that feeds on fresh blood. Soon the plant is taking over the world and offering Seymour fame and fortune in exchange for feeding its growing appetite.

Will Seymour give in to the plant’s demands and will he win the heart of kooky shop assistant Audrey?

Cast includes: Gareth Cassidy (Around the World in 80 Days), Leon Craig (Jesus Christ Superstar), Gbemisola Ikumelo (Rent), Karis Jack (Urinetown), Andrew London (War Horse), Frances Mayli McCann (Here Lies Love), Frances McNamee (RSC, Pride and Prejudice), Carole Stennett (The Lion King, The Bodyguard), Ben Stott (Wicked), Simeon Truby (Sweeney Todd), Jez Unwin (Once, Ghost, Top Hat)

MAIN THEATRE With a mixture of popular music styles – including rock ’n’ roll, doowap and Motown – Little Shop of Horrors is a charming and funny boymeets-girl, plant-eats-world musical that never fails to entertain. But remember… don’t feed the plants!

Originally produced by the WPA Theatre (Kyle Renick, Producing Director). Originally produced at the Orpheum Theatre, New York City by the WPA Theatre, David Geffen, Cameron Mackintosh and the Shubert Organization. Presented by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Limited on behalf of Music Theatre International of New York.

COMPLETE YOUR VISIT WITH A PRE-SHOW MEAL AT FOOD @ THE MERCURY, JUST £15.95!

Recommended for ages 10+yrs

‘A mouthwatering musical treat’ The Times (on previous productions) ‘Monstrous fun’ Daily Telegraph (on previous productions) ‘Kooky, irresistibly feel-good’ The Guardian (on previous productions)

T

Wed 3 Jun

7.30pm

Post-show Talk

S

Thu 4 Jun

1.30pm

Seniors Matinee pre-show talk

BT

Sat 6 Jun

11am

Backstage Tour

TT

Sat 6 Jun

1.00pm

Touch Tour

AD

Sat 6 Jun

2.30pm

Audio Described

P

Tue 9 Jun

4.30pm

Page to Stage: Making Musical Theatre

Thu 11 Jun

7.30pm

Captioned Performance

CAP

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS £12 PREVIEW PERFORMANCES 27 & 28 MAY, TICKET PRICES PAGES 26–29

11

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2015

GEORGE ORWELL’S Director Filiz Ozcan

By George Orwell, adapted by Peter Hall, with lyrics by Adrian Mitchell and music

by Richard Peaslee An amateur production presented by arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH LTD

12

Look out for the Mercury Young Company at Colchester Carnival on 18 July

THU 16 – SAT 18 JUL 7.30pm

FRIENDS FIRST Book from 7 April

MAIN THEATRE

The Mercury Young Company are back! A talented team of 16-25 year olds work on-stage and backstage to present one of the greatest stories of the 20th century.

But it isn’t long before the pigs take charge and things start to turn sour. While all animals are equal, some are more equal than others. Will the farm revolt again?

Manor Farm has fallen on hard times under the ownership of spiteful drunken farmer, Mr Jones.

Tired of the hard life under human rule, the starving animals drive their wicked master off the land.

George Orwell’s Animal Farm has gripped readers since it was first published in 1945, but is rarely seen on stage. This unflinching exploration of personal freedom bursts into life in a new production by the Mercury Young Company, following their hit productions Quadrophenia (2013) and The Wall (2014).

The sun rises on the reborn ‘Animal Farm’, a perfect home for those who walk on trotters, hooves or webbed feet. “All animals are equal” – everyone gets an equal share of food for an equal share of work. Life is good, and pleasures are plenty.

Our project has been supported by the Essex County Council Chairman’s Fund managed by Essex Community Foundation.

£12.50 - £10 TICKET PRICES PAGES 26–29

NEW DRAMA TALENT Approximate running time 2hrs, including interval Recommended for ages 10+yrs

‘Slick, provocative and most importantly, striking’ Colchester Gazette on the Young Company’s 2014 production of Pink Floyd’s The Wall

JOIN OUR YOUNG COMPANY rt-pumping.’

‘Amazing, exhausting, mind-blowing, hea Young Company Member 2014

Aged 16-25 years and passionate about theatre making? Mercury Young Company could be just the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. We’re looking for the next generation of actors, dancers, singers, musicians, directors, designers, stage managers and technicians.

Register online now for more information about how to get involved in our Summer 2015 production of George Orwell’s Animal Farm.

Sign up at www.mercurytheatre.co.uk/youngcompany

13

Director Matthew Cullum Designer Trina Bramman Musical Director Richard Reeday Sound Designer Marcus Christensen

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2015 14

07 – 30 AUG Performance times pages 30 & 31 After James spills a bag of magic on an old peach tree, he watches in amazement as the tree grows a peach so humongous it’s almost as big as a house! Inside this magical peach James meets the best (and most unusual!) friends a boy could have – five larger than life garden bugs!

Together, James and his newfound friends roll away in the enchanted peach and set out on the adventure of a lifetime.

And the best part? You’re coming too!

The action spills out into the audience as you’re carried away

by James and his pals in this fantastic summer holiday treat.

FRIENDS FIRST

FAMILY DRAMA Cast includes: Dale Superville

Book from 7 April

MAIN THEATRE Join us for a transatlantic voyage from the White Cliffs of Dover all the way to the Empire State Building.

Approximate running time 1hr 45minutes, including interval

Magical and musical, this stage adaptation of Roald Dahl’s juicy tale is directed by Matthew Cullum, whose production of Friend or Foe was a big hit with Mercury audiences last year. It’s sure to put big smiles on the faces of adults and children alike.

‘A heartwarming mix of fun, fruit and nuts’ The Daily Mail

Recommended for adults and families with children aged 6+yrs Ticket prices may change. Book early for the best deal!

GET CLOSER TO THE ACTION! COME UP ON STAGE AFTER THE SHOW

www.roalddahl.com www.davidwood.org.uk Children & Over 60s £10 RP

Wed 26 Aug

6pm

Relaxed Performance

TT

Thu 27 Aug

12.30pm

Touch Tour

AD

Thu 27 Aug

2pm

Audio Described

CAP

Sun 30 Aug

2pm

Captioned Performance

£22.50 - £10 & DISCOUNTS £12 PREVIEW PERFORMANCES 7 & 8 AUGUST, TICKET PRICES PAGES 26–29

15

LIVE MUSIC

LIVE MUSIC

FRIENDS FIRST

LIVE MUSIC

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 7 April

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 7 April

Book from 7 April

BLURB AND THE KAISER THIEFS

Barry Collings Entertainments present

EasyTheatres.com present

Fri 14 Aug

Fri 21 Aug

Fri 28 Aug

MAIN THEATRE 8pm Blurb and The Kaiser Thiefs bring their rocking Britpop tribute to the Mercury performing top hits such as Song 2, Parklife, Country House, Girls and Boys, There’s No Other Way, Ruby, I Predict a Riot, Oh My God and Everyday I Love You Less and Less.

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Following the release of their brand new album That’s What Happens and a sold out arena tour with Status Quo, Chas and Dave bring their On The Road Tour to Colchester. Having been friends since the early 60s, now celebrating their 50th anniversary, Chas and Dave began writing and performing songs together in 1972. Popular hits include Gertcha, The Sideboard Song, Rabbit, Ain’t No Pleasing You, Margate, London Girls and Snooker Loopy. Having gained a cult audience of both young and old they’re back on tour due to public demand!

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Stars from West End smashes including Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera and The Producers present a two-hour feast of musical theatre’s greatest hits.

Fully approved by both Blur and The Kaiser Chiefs this high energy tribute, who deliver popular hits with the same energy and enthusiasm as the acts themselves, recreate the glory days of British rock in this iconic ‘Godfathers of Britpop’ vs ‘Sons of Britpop’ evening not to be missed! Celebrating 20 years since the Battle of Britpop.

CHAS AND DAVE ON THE ROAD

MASTERS OF THE HOUSE SING THE MUSICALS

An all-new score for 2015 includes all-time favourites from Chicago, Evita, Joseph, Phantom, Rocky Horror, Wicked!, Miss Saigon, The Sound of Music, Blood Brothers, Jesus Christ Superstar, My Fair Lady, Grease, La Cage aux Folles, South Pacific, Little Shop of Horrors and more plus magical medleys from West Side Story, Mamma Mia! and Rodgers and Hammerstein.

Culminating with the greatest musical of all time, Les Misérables, the West End comes to Colchester. www.easytheatres.com

£15 & DISCOUNTS 16

£25

£25 - £10

R E F F O T E K C I T N O SEAS ICKET GOLD1 T per show Just £13.3

£39.93

H Includes best available seats on all days H Includes a free programme your plans H Free ticket exchanges if you need to change H Saves you up to £42.57!

OVER 60s All of the GOLD TICKET abbeovnee,fitfos ofr £3th6e Gold tickets apply to: Noises Off, Little Shop of Ho rrors and James and The Giant Peach

TO BUY YOUR GOLD TICKET:

Register and log in to our website at www.mercurytheatre.co.uk Choose your performances and the Gold Ticket will be automatically applied at checkout, or call us on 01206 573948.

CAN’T MAKE ONE OF THE SHOWS?

Gold Tickets are fully transferable, so you can give your ticket for any show to a friend!

ALREADY GOT A GOLD TICKET? Extend your discount to include James and the Giant Peach by using the code GOLDPEACH when booking!

If you would like to buy both a standard gold ticket and an over 60s gold ticket, these must be purchased in separate transactions for the discount to apply correctly.

17

LIVE MUSIC

FRIENDS FIRST

FRIENDS FIRST

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 7 April

Book from 7 April

Book from 7 April

Sweeney Entertainments present

JBA Concerts present

Lakin McCarthy present

Tue 1 Sep

Wed 2 Sep

Thu 3 Sep

MAIN THEATRE 8pm 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.

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Inspired by the King Oliver Creole Jazz Band, Chris formed his first band in 1949 at the age of nineteen and has since gone on to become not only Europe’s most successful and influential bandleaders, but a bona fide jazz legend.

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Jay Rayner, award-winning journalist, writer and broadcaster, has been a restaurant critic for over a decade, and if there’s one thing he’s learnt it’s that people delight in reviews of bad restaurants. Here, he examines our love affair with lousy reviews, reads accounts of excruciating nights and looks at the worst reviews of his own work. Jay, recently voted Best Food and Drink Journalist in Britain, has been the Observer’s restaurant critic for over 12 years, resident food expert on The One Show, regular judge on MasterChef and chair of BBC Radio 4’s Kitchen Cabinet.

JACKSON LIVE IN CONCERT

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

£21 18

TALK

LIVE MUSIC

THE BIG CHRIS BARBER BAND

With his 10-piece band, featuring a 7-strong front line, Chris plays a selection of his favourite music: from his roots in New Orleans style in Bourbon Street Parade to the early music of Duke Ellington and Sidney Bechet ... before going back to When the Saints!

The Big Chris Barber Band combine all these ingredients into an exciting and often moving evening of world-class jazz.

£25

JAY RAYNER MY DINING HELL

Contains mild swearing Recommended for 14+yrs

£22.50 - £10

LIVE MUSIC

WHITNEY WHITNEY

DON’T HANG AROUND

LIVE MUSIC

QUEEN QUEEN OF OF THE THE NIGHT NIGHT

FRIENDS FIRST

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 7 April

Book from 7 April

WHITNEY QUEEN OF THE NIGHT

Maple Tree Entertainment Ltd present

Fri 4 Sep

Sat 5 Sep

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm 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 breathtaking performance as Whitney. Taking us on a magical rollercoaster ride through three decades of classic hits that include I Wanna Dance With Somebody, One Moment in Time, I’m Every Woman, Greatest Love of All and many more, the show beautifully remembers the most highly awarded female artiste in the world.

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Direct from its success in London’s West End, a sold out UK tour and standing ovations at every performance, The Simon and Garfunkel Story is back on the road! Using huge projection photos and original film footage, this 50th anniversary celebration also features a full live band performing all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more. Get your tickets fast as this is an evening not to be missed!

THE SIMON AND GARFUNKEL STORY

‘Fantastic’ BBC Radio 2

Get ready for the Queen of the Night!

‘Authentic and exciting’ The Stage

www.queenofthenight.co

www.thesimonandgarfunkelstory.com

£25

£25

L A V R E T IN DRINKS CAN BE D E PRE-ORDER

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.

19

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2015

Written by Fine Time Fontayne and Daniel Buckroyd Director Daniel Buckroyd Designer Juliet Shillingford Musical Director Richard Reeday Sound Designer Marcus Christensen Choreographer Charlie Morgan

20

SAT 28 NOV – SUN 10 JAN Performance times pages 30 & 31 Hop on your magic carpet and join us for the adventure of a lifetime!

Come with us to Old Peking where Aladdin dreams of marrying the beautiful Princess Jasmine and providing a better life for his mother, Widow Twanky, and brother, Wishee Washee.

With the promise of an inheritance to make him as rich as a prince, the wicked magician Abanazer has tricked Aladdin into helping him find a magic lamp hidden in a secret cavern high in the hills.

Aladdin soon finds himself trapped with only a battered old lamp for company. It’s only when he rubs the scruffy lamp that his adventure really begins!

FRIENDS FIRST

FAMILY DRAMA Cast includes: Dale Superville

Book from 7 April

MAIN THEATRE Will Widow Twanky find romance? Will Wishee Washee prove his worth? Will Aladdin finally marry Princess Jasmine?

All will be revealed at the Mercury Theatre this December!

Approximate running time 2hrs 15minutes, including interval Recommended for adults and families with children aged 3+yrs Everyone, including infants of all ages, must have a valid purchased ticket

Aladdin will need the help of all his pals in the audience if he’s going to win the Princess’s heart. So prepare to boo, hiss, cheer and sing! Are you ready?

We can’t hear you…!

FILL UP FIRST AT FOOD @ THE MERCURY! CALL 01206 368100 TO RESERVE A TABLE

£26.50 - £10 TICKET PRICES PAGES 26–29

TICKET PRICES FROZEN AND EXTRA WEEKEND SHOWS! RP

Tue 5 Jan

2pm

Relaxed and Dementia Friendly

RP

7pm

Relaxed and Dementia Friendly

CAP

Fri 8 Jan

7pm

Captioned Performance

TT

Sat 9 Jan

12.30pm

Touch Tour

AD

Sat 9 Jan

2pm

Audio Described

21

A PLACE FOR NEW TALENT TO SHINE

22 22 22

17 JUN – 12 JUL This year we’re launching a new festival to celebrate emerging new talent in Colchester and North Essex. Lights Up! will be packed with an array of exciting shows brought to the Mercury by some of the best amateur groups in the area. Find out more at www.mercurytheatre.co.uk/lightsup

June

“For your tomorrow, we gave our today”

EMORTUUS The Fallen

S ’ T A H N W O

Wed 17 Thu 18 Fri 19 Sat 20 Sat 20 Thu 25 Fri 26 Sat 27 Sun 28

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7pm 5pm

Come Fly With Us Come Fly With Us Come Fly With Us Come Fly With Us Come Fly With Us Christine The Musical Christine The Musical Emortuus – The Fallen Peter Pan The Musical

7.30pm 7.30pm 1pm 6pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 4pm

Summer Show Time ‘15 Summer Show Time ‘15 Summer Show Time ‘15 Summer Show Time ‘15 Living with Luke Ramon Goose and Adrian Nation Milenka End of Year Show

July Fri 3 Sat 4 Sun 5 Sun 5 Wed 8 Thu 9 Sat 11 Sun 12

23 23 23

BECOME PART OF SOMETHING SPECIAL EARLY YEARS Drop in classes for young children and their parents or carers – no need to book ahead. £4.50 per child. Term time only.

Play and Sway for Toddlers-3yrs

Tuesdays, 10.30am - 11.30am Make a rainbow or have tea with a tiger in our creative and fun-filled sessions.

Drama and Story Building for 3-5yrs

Tuesdays, 1pm - 2pm Share in your child’s imagination and help prepare them for school in our fun-packed sessions of games, activities and story building.

AFTER SCHOOL DRAMA CLUBS

5-7yrs: Mondays, 4.15pm - 5.15pm 8-11yrs: Mondays, 5.30pm - 6.30pm Summer term: £58.50 (13 weeks). Term time only.

Fun drama sessions, which enable children to build confidence and make new friends.

Pre-booking essential.

FIND OUT MORE 24

YOUTH THEATRE

11-14yrs: Tuesdays OR Wednesdays, 6pm - 8pm Summer term: £63 (14 weeks). Term time only.

14-18yrs: Wednesdays OR Thursdays, 7pm - 9pm Summer half term: £27 (6 weeks). Term time only.

Weekly sessions to develop performance skills and inspire creativity. No experience is necessary, just enthusiasm. Pre-booking essential.

ACT V Mondays, 10.30am - 1.20pm £4.50 per session. Term time only.

These sessions for older adults include movement, a range of theatre activities and a great opportunity to meet new people during the coffee break.

Pre-booking recommended.

PLAYWRIGHTS’ SURGERY Selected Thursdays, 7.30pm - 9.30pm in Food @ The Mercury These free sessions are designed for playwrights and aspiring writers to share and discuss their work.

Pre-booking essential.

Thu 16 Apr, Thu 7 May, Thu 21 May, Thu 4 Jun

Call 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk/get-involved

TEACHERS’ NETWORK & DRAMA CPD EVENTS

inuing The Mercury Theatre is offering Cont for ties rtuni oppo ent lopm Deve al Profession ation Primary, Secondary and Further Educ sessions provide teachers from across Essex. These gain new tice, prac best share to ty an opportuni skills and develop existing ones.

PRIMARY TEACHERS Tue 16 Jun, 5.45pm - 8pm

CHERS SECONDARY & FE DRAMA TEA Thu 7 May, 6.30pm - 7.30pm Thu 18 Jun, 5.45pm - 8pm these free To find out more or to book onto o.uk/CPD tre.c thea cury .mer www events, go to:

NEETSA

!

E C N E R E F IF D A E K MA

AS A REGISTERED CHARITY YOUR SUPPORT HELPS US TO KEEP HIGH QUALITY THEATRE IN COLCHESTER.

FRIENDS BENEFITS Regular newsletter Priority booking – new shows on sale 7 April Invitation to a Supporters’ event Drinks voucher Membership card Up to six free ticket exchanges Young Friend: (16 to 25-year-olds) £4 Friend: from £26 Premier Friend: from £130 Ambassador: from £500

CORPORATE SUPPORTER Bang and Olufsen thebestofcolchester Birkett Long Solicitors Citi Business Systems Colchester Institute DK Moriarty Limited

Ellisons Solicitors Essex and Suffolk Water Scrutton Bland The Smile Clinic WRS Insurance Brokers LTD

There are two levels of membership available for our corporate supporters, costing as little as £275+VAT a year. Corporate support of the Mercury is a great way to play an active role in your local community and you’ll receive multiple free tickets to selected performances, networking events and exclusive backstage opportunities!

TERS@MERCURYTHEATRE.CO.UK OR PP SU AIL EM 948 573 06 012 LL FOR MORE INFORMATION CA O.UK/SUPPORT-US OR VISIT WWW.MERCURYTHEATRE.C 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 is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 8pm (10am to 6pm when there is no evening performance). For performances on Sundays and bank holidays ticket sales will be open 90 minutes prior to the show.

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

Book online at www.mercurytheatre.co.uk Print@home – You can collect your tickets from the ticket counter at least 45 minutes prior to the performance, or we can post them to you for £1. We would recommend however that we email your tickets to you to print yourself at home.

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. There is no charge for season ticket holders, Friends or supporters.

Babes in arms – We can now accommodate up to 15 under 2s, sat on laps, at select performances. Tickets are £2.50 each and can be booked in person at our ticket desk or over the phone.

WITH NO BOOKING FEE DISCOUNTS £10/£12 concessions available in most seats for over 60s, jobseekers, students and under 26s offered Monday to Friday and matinees for all Made in Colchester shows and selected other performances.

Job Seeker Standby £1 Job Seeker Standby tickets on Made in Colchester show 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.

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

Only one discount can be applied to each ticket transaction.

YOUR VISIT Car Parking The Mercury Theatre offers discounted car parking for our patrons who park in St Mary’s car park. This must be purchased in advance.

Cloakroom Bags and coats can be left in a supervised cloakroom – payment by donation. Booster seats for children are also available.

E-cigarettes

Digby Gallery

In line with World Health Organisation guidance we don’t allow the use of e-cigarettes or vaping indoors at the Mercury Theatre.

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

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 team on 01206 573948.

Refreshments Theatre Bar – the theatre bar is open one 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 rush by ordering your drinks before the show in the bar or at the kiosk.

Kiosk – the foyer kiosk is open 45 minutes before the show, during intervals and after the show, selling a selection of ice cream and confectionary. Tea, coffee and soft drinks are also available. You can now order your interval drinks from the kiosk, so no need to queue at the bar.

Interval Drinks – Avoid the rush by purchasing your drinks or ice creams at the bar or the kiosk before the show – then at the interval they will be waiting for you. And don’t worry – the ice cream will still be frozen and your wine chilled!

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 or email food@mercurytheatre.co.uk.

Mercury Gift Vouchers & Theatre Tokens We sell Mercury Theatre Gift Vouchers and National Theatre Tokens. Please speak to the ticket sales team or see www.mercurytheatre.co.uk for details.

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, email carol.rayner@mercurytheatre.co.uk or see www.mercurytheatre.co.uk for more information T Post-show Talk Join the cast after a performance to ask your questions. For dates see diary pages 30-31.

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.

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

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

27

BOOK AT WWW.MERCURYTHEATRE.CO.UK SEATING PLAN

ACCESS

This is an example seating plan for Noises Off and Little Shop of Horrors.

Seating plans vary, see our website or speak to one of our friendly ticket sales assistants for details. See our website for James and the Giant Peach and Aladdin seating plans. Ticket prices, particularly for preview performances, may change without notice.

Tickets for disabled customers including those with impaired sight or hearing are £8.50 for all Made in Colchester productions. Please check online or call to book. For access ticket prices and availability for other shows please call 01206 573948.

Companion Tickets If you need to have a companion with you to enable you to visit us we will also discount their ticket to the Access price.

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 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

H

G

41 F

40 39 E

38

39 39 38 38

D

38 37 37 37 C

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

37 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

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

30 30

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

29

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

6 5 7

stage

12

6 7 8

11 12 13

6

F

9

B

H

7 G

D

C

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

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.

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

40

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

41

O

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

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 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 L

42

P

10 10 10

7

8 9 9

7 8

5

5

6 6 6

4

4

5 5

4

6

8

2

3

4

5

7

3

3

4

3

2

2 1

1 G

F

E

D

C

B A

H

We welcome Assistance Dogs at all performances, please inform us when booking. The Mercury Theatre can accommodate up to four wheelchair users, with additional spaces available for specialised performances. Please state that you require a wheelchair space when booking.

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. Please mention when making your booking.

Equipment should be collected from the cloakroom.

Noises Off and Little Shop of Horrors ticket prices See show pages or website for prices of other shows.

28

Green Yellow Purple Blue Red

RP Relaxed Performance

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

Relaxed performances are for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment including people with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder, 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. For dates see diary pages 30-31.

WITH NO BOOKING FEE 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 into text on a caption unit on the stage. For dates see diary pages 30-31.

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 STATION

A12 LONDON

A134 SUDBURY

WAY WEST

COLNE BANK AVENUE

A137 HARWICH M’TREE

www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

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

B1022 TIPTREE

CO WD RA YA VE NU E

CASTLE PARK

LEXDEN ROAD

For access information please contact Maria Harrison on 01206 573948 or Foremail a more detailed map please visit our website, access@mercurytheatre.co.uk

A12 IPSWICH

COWDRAY AVENUE

MERCURY THEATRE

ST MARY’S CAR PARK

Call 01206 573948

NORTH

IPS WIC HR OAD

Mercury Theatre Balkerne Gate Colchester Essex CO1 1PT

HA RW ICH RO AD

CAP

HOW TO FIND US

NOR THE RN APP RD

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.

BALKERNE HILL

AD Audio Description

29

DIARY April Tue 14 Wed 15 Thu 16 Fri 17 Sat 18 Wed 22 Thu 23 Fri 24 Sat 25

7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 5.30pm 8.30pm 5.30pm 8.30pm 5.30pm 8.30pm

All My Sons All My Sons All My Sons All My Sons All My Sons All My Sons All My Sons Avenue Q Avenue Q Avenue Q Avenue Q Avenue Q Avenue Q Avenue Q

May Fri 1 Sat 2 Mon 4 Tue 5 Wed 6 Thu 7 Fri 8 Sat 9

30

Mon 11 Tue 12 Wed 13

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

S

P

Noises Off Noises Off Noises Off Ask the Candidates Noises Off Noises Off Noises Off Noises Off Noises Off Noises Off Noises Off Noises Off Noises Off Noises Off

Thu 14 Fri 15 Sat 16 Mon 18 Tue 19 Wed 20 Thu 21 Fri 22 Sat 23 Wed 27 Thu 28 Fri 29 Sat 30

2.30pm Noises Off 7.30pm CAP Noises Off 7.30pm Noises Off 2.30pm AD/TT Noises Off 7.30pm Noises Off 7.30pm Midge Ure and India Electric Co 8.00pm Brodsky Quartet 7.30pm Nursing Lives 7.30pm Balletboyz - theTALENT 7.30pm Balletboyz - theTALENT 7.30pm Balletboyz - theTALENT 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 2.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 2.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors

June Mon 1 Tue 2 Wed 3 Thu 4 Fri 5 Sat 6 Mon 8 Tue 9 Wed 10 Thu 11 Fri 12 Sat 13

7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 2.30pm S Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 2.30pm AD/TT Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm P Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 2.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm CAP Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 2.30pm Little Shop of Horrors 7.30pm Little Shop of Horrors

July Thu 16 Fri 17 Sat 18

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

Animal Farm Animal Farm Animal Farm

August Fri 7 Sat 8 Wed 12 Thu 13 Fri 14 Sat 15 Sun 16 Wed 19 Thu 20 Fri 21 Sat 22 Sun 23 Wed 26 Thu 27 Fri 28 Sat 29 Sun 30

2pm 2pm 6pm 6pm 2pm 8pm 2pm 6pm 2pm 6pm 6pm 2pm 7.30pm 2pm 6pm 2pm 6pm 6pm RP 2pm AD/TT 7.30pm 2pm 6pm 2pm CAP

James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach Blurb and The Kaiser Thiefs James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach Chas and Dave James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach Masters of the House James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach

September Tue 1 Wed 2 Thu 3 Fri 4 Sat 5

8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

Sun 13 Jackson Live The Big Chris Barber Band Jay Rayner Whitney Queen of the Night The Simon and Garfunkel Story

November Off Peak / Peak / High Peak Sat 28

2pm 7pm

Wed 2 Thu 3 Fri 4 Sat 5 Sun 6 Tue 8 Wed 9 Thu 10 Fri 11 Sat 12

10.15am 2pm 10.15am 2pm 10.15am 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 10.15am 2pm 10.15am 2pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm

Thu 17 Fri 18 Sat 19

Aladdin Aladdin

Sun 20

Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin

Wed 23

December Tue 1

Tue 15 Wed 16

Tue 22

Thu 24 Sat 26 Sun 27 Tue 29 Wed 30 Thu 31

2pm 7pm 2pm 10.15am 2pm 10.15am 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 11am 3pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 11am 3pm

Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin

January Fri 1 Sat 2

2pm 2pm 7pm 2pm RP 2pm RP 7pm 7pm 7pm 7pm CAP 2pm AD/TT 7pm 2pm

Sun 3 Tue 5 Wed 6 Thu 7 Fri 8 Sat 9 Sun 10

Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin

KEY Post-show Talk with Cast/Director 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 RP Relaxed Performance

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.

Theatres are at the heart Call 01206 573948 of our communities. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk your voice heard.

Add your voice to the UK-wide campaign Join our mailing list: Let’s shout about how mytheatrematters.com tickets@mercurytheatre.co.uk 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

All details in this brochure are correct at the time of going to press. Colchester Mercury Theatre 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