Royal & Derngate Summer 2024 brochure

What’s On SUMMER 2024

DRAMA DANCE MUSIC COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES WORKSHOPS FAMILY SHOWS COMEDY MUSICALS

Welcome

It has been a busy start to the year and we are delighted to share with you our programme of events over the coming few months. Excitingly, there are new Made In Northampton productions for you to discover on pages 24-25 and 29: brand new adaptations of two very different but favourite classics. Kazuo Ishiguro’s award-winning story, Never Let Me Go, and a festive treat for families, The Jolly Christmas Postman, will be gracing the Royal stage later this year and are now on sale. Speaking of which, Moby Dick, in association with Simple8, takes place next month – grab your tickets before the production sets sail on tour to Wilton’s Music Hall in London, and beyond.

Direct from the West End we welcome back popular shows Sister Act, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie and, for their first visit to Northampton, Pretty Woman and Pride & Prejudice (*sort of)

There is a bumper selection of shows included in our Subscribe & Save offer this season. From top quality touring musicals to brand new productions that are created right here in Northampton, there’s a great opportunity to see the shows you’ll love at best value prices when booking them in one go. Turn to page 4 to find out more.

If you’re interested in getting involved in this year’s GenFest, our festival celebrating local new writing, you can find all the details and how to apply on page 32.

If you haven’t been to Northampton Filmhouse recently, do remember that we continue to show a great range of films, along with live screenings of top theatre, music and dance events.

Finally, the building, whilst still impacted by RAAC, is making progress and we’re looking forward to removing the majority of the scaffolding later this year, enabling more of the foyer space to open up again. In the meantime, please do check your pre-show emails for information about which entrance to use depending on where you’re seated. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

A BRAND NEW STAGE ADAPTATION

Direct from its London run, the must-see comedy of 2023 hits the road this Spring!

H G Wells’ comic deadly serious masterpiece will never be the same again as a hapless highly skilled group of actors embark on a journey of a lifetime!

Will they be able to defeat the space time paradox - or at least get through the second half?

From the team behind the smash hit comedy The Hound Of The Baskervilles and the award-winning Original Theatre (Murder In The Dark, The Mirror Crack’d, Caroline’s Kitchen, Invincible, The Habit Of Art).

Warning: may contain Cher tunes.

HHHHH “AN ABSOLUTE CLASSIC. A MUST-SEE SHOW” Fairy Powered Productions

HHHHH “EXQUISITELY ENTERTAINING” The Indiependent “A WILD, CLEVER, FUN AND FUNNY SHOW” Peter Kay

Box Office 01604 624811

Tue 26 – Sat 30 March

Eves 7.30pm

Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £17

Concessions, Groups and Stage & Screen Members discounts

Subscribe & Save! See page 4

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Access Information p 60-61

“There she blows!”

Set sail on an unforgettable journey on the high seas in this stunning new retelling of Moby Dick.

In search of fortune and adventure, a humble schoolmaster boards a whaling ship due to sail east off Cape Cod, only to find a Captain hell-bent on revenge - on the whale that lost him his leg. So begins the quest for Moby Dick.

From the award-winning ensemble that brought A Passage

To India to such dynamic life on the Royal stage in 2018, Simple8 conjure the spirit and atmosphere of Herman Melville’s masterpiece.

Wooden planks, tattered sheets and rousing sea shanties create a captivating world at sea as the hunt for the most famous whale on earth is ingeniously brought to life.

HHHHH “A COMPANY POSSESSING THE SKILLS, DEDICATION AND INTELLIGENCE TO CREATE WONDER”

The Times

HHHH “THIS PRODUCTION SHOULD PUT SIMPLE8 IN THE FRONT RANK OF COMPANIES WORKING IN THE COUNTRY TODAY” WhatsOnStage.com

Simple 8, Winner of:

PETER BROOK EMPTY SPACE AWARD: Best Ensemble OFF-WEST END AWARD: Best Ensemble

CAST

Simple8, in association with Royal & Derngate, Northampton

Fri 5 – Sat 13 April

Eves 7.30pm (Wed 10 Apr 7pm)

Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm (Excl. Sat 6 Apr)

ROYAL

Tickets from £15

16-25 & student tickets £10

Concessions, Groups and Stage & Screen Members discounts

Suitable for ages 7+

Subscribe & Save! See page 4

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Adapted by Sebastian Armesto

Director Jesse Jones

Designer Kate Bunce

Lighting Designer Johanna Town

Musical Director Jonathan Charles

Costume Supervisor Victoria Youngson

Production Manager Phil McCandlish

Assistant Director Lau Batty

Relighter Tom Lightbody

Lighting Programmer Claire Gerrens

Company Stage Manager Matthew Harper

Deputy Stage Manager Lottie McLarin

Wardrobe Assistant Stage Manager

Alexandra Kewley

Mark Arends

James Newton

Jonathan Charles

William Pennington

Hannah Emanuel

Guy Rhys

Syreeta Kumar

Tom Swale

Hazel Monaghan

WINNER OF EVERY

Based on the best-selling book by Yann Martel, the five-star hit show, winner of five Olivier Awards including Best New Play, comes to Royal & Derngate.

After conquering the West End and Broadway, the HHHHH ‘theatrical phenomenon’ (Telegraph) embarks on its biggest adventure yet.

Jaw-dropping visuals and world-class puppetry combine in a unique and ‘breath‑taking’ (The Times) theatrical event that is ‘a wonder to behold’ (Daily Mail).

After an epic storm in the Pacific Ocean, Pi is stranded on a lifeboat with four other survivors – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger.

Based on the global phenomenon and winner of the Man Booker Prize, selling over fifteen million copies worldwide, Life Of Pi is the hugely popular story of an epic journey of endurance and hope. Don’t miss the West End and Broadway spectacle on its first ever UK tour.

“IT WILL MAKE YOU BELIEVE IN THEATRE. A TRIUMPH” Sunday Times

Tue 2 – Sat 6 April

Eves 7.30pm

Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £15

Concessions, Groups and Stage & Screen Members

discounts

Subscribe & Save! See page 4

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The National Theatre Connections Festival is a celebration of young people, theatre and the importance of access to the arts. Each year the National Theatre commissions a collection of new plays for young people to perform, bringing together some of the UK’s most exciting writers with the theatre-makers of tomorrow.

Royal & Derngate hosts the largest and most diverse of the regional festivals that take place across the country, and we are delighted to welcome hundreds of young people to Northampton again this April.

Groups from across the region will perform a host of exciting new plays, including Age Is Revolting by Abi Zakarian, Shout by Alex Zegerman, Replica by Titus Halder, Windrush/Gen. by Mojisola Adebayo, Kiss, Marry, PushOffCliff by Josh Azouz, Sad Club by Luke Barnes with Music by Adam Pleeth, Orchestra by Charlie Josephine, The Periodicals by Siân Owen and Back In The Day by Yasmeen Khan

Mon 15 – Sun 21 April

Times vary, see website ROYAL

Tickets from £6

The Kings of comedy, Le Navet Bete, return to the stage with a brand-new comedy for the ages. This hilarious retelling of the Arthurian legends, suitable for the whole family, will have audiences crying with laughter and become part of the legend themselves! Camelot is in trouble. King Arthur knows that if he doesn’t turn things around, this civilisation will be forgotten, and be known as nothing more than a rather dull time in British history. But when three hapless squires approach him about changing that legacy… a legend is born.

“IF YOU ONLY SEE ONE SHOW…THIS IS IT.

EXCELLENT” British Theatre Guide on Le Navet Bete’s Robin Hood

Thu 25 – Sat 27 April

Eves 7.30pm, Sat Matinee 2.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £17

Recommended for ages 7+

Subscribe & Save! See page 4

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BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!

Join Shrek and his trusty sidekick Donkey as they set out on a quest to defeat the fearsome dragon and rescue the beautiful Princess Fiona. With a heartwarming story and a cast of unforgettable characters, this musical extravaganza is a journey you won’t want to miss.

The show is set to a toe-tapping soundtrack featuring fabulous songs like I’m A Believer, Big Bright Beautiful World and I Know It’s Today. These tunes will have you humming all the way home. It’s the perfect night out for the whole family, offering an award-winning show that promises a musical spectacular for big kids and little kids alike.

Our stellar cast is led by theatre legend Antony Lawrence and Strictly Come Dancing star Joanne Clifton. Book your tickets today and get ready for an unforgettable journey with Shrek and his friends – because in this kingdom, everyone is a part of the adventure!

Based on the DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture and the Book by William Steig. Book and Lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire. Music by Jeanine Tesori. Originally produced on Broadway by DreamWorks Theatricals and Neal Street Productions

Tue 23 – Sat 27 April

Eves 7.30pm

Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £27

Concessions, Groups and Stage & Screen Members

discounts

Subscribe & Save! See page 4

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NORTHAMPTON MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY PRESENT

Northampton Musical Theatre Company continue to build on the success of Kinky Boots and Calendar Girls and are delighted to bring their fantastic new production West End Now! to the Royal stage. This is an opportunity to see all your favourite musicals in one place, bringing song and dance from some of the West End’s most loved shows including Six, Les Misérables, Dear Evan Hansen and so much more.

Don’t miss your chance to grab a ticket for this musical extravaganza showcasing the best of Musical Theatre and the talent Northampton has to offer.

Fri 10 & Sat 11 May

Eves 7.30pm, Sat Matinee 2.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £22

From Our Community

WRITTEN BY DAMIAN BARR AND JAMES LEY

ADAPTED FROM THE MEMOIR BY DAMIAN BARR

DIRECTED BY SUBA DAS

“Don’t you worry. I’ll always love you. Love doesn’t run out. It’s not like the gas meter. I’ll find extra love.”

It’s October 12, 1984 – the Brighton bombing. Maggie Thatcher emerges from the rubble, dusty but defiant and somehow in the living room of 8-year-old Damian Barr in Newarthill.

No time for turning, so buckle up for a surreal yet so-real rollercoaster ride through Damian’s painful past rediscovering who he really is. From the furnaces of the Ravenscraig Steelworks to the sanctuary of Carfin Grotto, there’s pain and joy, coming of age and coming out. And Saint Dolly Parton. It’s about finding your voice and telling your story.

Maggie & Me is a Scottish classic and Sunday Times Memoir of the Year. Damian Barr and James Ley (‘One of Scotland’s most exciting, early career writers’ Exeunt) team up for this dramatic return to Damian’s childhood. Before you can move on, you have to look back…

Thu 6 – Sat 8 June

Eves 7.30pm, Sat Matinee 2.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £16

Recommended for ages 14+

BSL Interpreted Relaxed

Audio Described Touch Tour

Access Information p. 60-61

‘THIS PRODUCTION HAS GLAMOUR AND GRIT’

The world’s best-loved musical is back! Grittier and more glamorous than ever before.

After a whirlwind summer romance, leather-clad greaser Danny and girl-next-door Sandy are unexpectedly reunited when she transfers to Rydell High for senior year. But can they survive the trials and tribulations of teenage life and find true love once more?

With its phenomenal score, bursting with hits including Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’, Hopelessly Devoted To You and You’re The One That I Want, this thrilling new version directed by Nikolai Foster, which opened in the West End, is brought to life by a fresh young cast who bring energy, vitality and passion to this ultimate musical classic.

Reignite your passion and get ready for an explosion of summer loving. So round-up your Burger Palace Boys, pick up your Pink Ladies and rediscover why Grease really is the one that you want!

Mon 13 – Sat 18 May

Eves 7.30pm

Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £17

BSL Interpreted

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Access Information p. 60-61

BOOK, MUSIC & LYRICS BY JIM JACOBS & WARREN CASEY DIRECTOR NIKOLAI FOSTER CHOREOGRAPHY ARLENE PHILLIPS

Deliciously naughty and outrageously silly, this timeless comedy is a masterclass in social satire and the art of gossip. Tilted Wig and Malvern Theatres in association with Theatre By The Lake present The School For Scandal by Richard B Sheridan, with Fresh Prince Of Bel Air, RSC and Shakespeare’s Globe star Joseph Marcell who appeared in Royal & Derngate’s Alone In Berlin and King John Sir Peter Teazle (Marcell) believes his wife is sleeping with someone else. She isn’t. But she’s starting to think if her husband believes it, she may as well give it a go. After all, if you’re going to cause a scandal, you might as well enjoy it... Featuring an unforgettable cast of larger-than-life characters, each armed with a lacerating wit, The School For Scandal is one of the greatest comedies ever written. Join us for a lightning-paced evening of romance, revenge and rollicking fun that promises to leave you entertained, enamoured – and perhaps even a little scandalised!

“THUNDERING LAUGHS AND GIGGLES... A GREAT FEEL GOOD SHOW” West End Best Friend on Tilted Wig’s Around the World in 80 Days

Tue 21 – Sat 25 May

Tue – Sat Eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm ROYAL

Tickets from £22

Concessions, Groups and Stage & Screen Members discounts

Subscribe & Save! See page 4

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COMING BACK TO NORTHAMPTON DUE TO HUGE DEMAND!

Following a record-breaking three-year West End residency, sold-out UK and Ireland Tour and Amazon studios award-winning film, the smash-hit and critically acclaimed musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie returns to Northampton. Jamie New is sixteen and lives on a council estate in Sheffield. Jamie doesn’t quite fit in. Jamie is terrified about the future. Jamie is going to be a sensation. Supported by his brilliant loving mum and surrounded by his friends, Jamie overcomes prejudice, beats the bullies and steps out of the darkness, into the spotlight. This ‘Funny, outrageous, touching’ (Daily Telegraph), musical sensation is to be experienced by all the family and not to be missed!

Funny, fabulous and feel good, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie features an all-star cast including West End sensation Ivano Turco as Jamie, musical theatre icon Rebecca McKinnis as Margaret, star of the stage Sejal Keshwala as Ray, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie wonder Talia Palamathanan as Pritti with X Factor winner and legend Sam Bailey as Miss Hedge and Strictly Come Dancing royalty Kevin Clifton as Hugo/Loco Chanelle.

Tue 28 May – Sat 1 June

Eves 7.30pm

Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £15

Recommended for ages 14+

Subscribe & Save! See page 4

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television Joe Joff Bush.

puppets, this to real and Cuffe Studios.

FOR REAL LIFE

When Dad feels like a little bit of Sunday afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans! Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag.

Brace yourselves sisters – the habit is coming to Royal & Derngate! Don’t miss this eagerly anticipated brand

Bluey’s Big Play is a brand-new theatrical adaptation of the Emmy® award-winning children’s television series, with an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, and new music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush.

All your prayers have been answered with a stunning

Join the Heelers in their first live theatre show made just for you, featuring brilliantly created puppets, this is Bluey as you’ve never seen it before, brought to real life in this UK premiere.

HHHHH “A GLORIOUS CELEBRATION

OF EVERYTHING YOU LOVE ABOUT THE SHOW”

disco, this heavenly musical is joyous and uplifting in Sister Act is the brilliant, must-see show which raises the spirits

The Guardian

Thu 6 – Sun 9 June

Thu 10am & 1pm, Fri 10am

Sat & Sun 10am, 1pm & 4pm

DERNGATE

Eves 7.30pm, Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

BBC HeadFest is back, bigger and better for 2024. We’re delighted to support Headfest for a third year. BBC Headfest is your opportunity to explore mental health through talks, films and interactive workshops. This action-packed festival curated by BBC Radio Northampton and hosted by the University of Northampton partners with services from NHS Northamptonshire. New for 2024, Headfest celebrates its partnership with the University of Northampton to offer mental health services and workshops with a particular focus on young people and schools. Most events at the university are free and guests are welcome to drop in for a cuppa or to talk to our roaming mental health first-aiders. Join us at Northampton Filmhouse on Sunday 23 June for films, panel discussions and comedy, all with a focus on mental health.

Look out for more details coming soon on our website: www.royaladnderngate.co.uk/headfest24

Mon 24 – Sat 29 June Times vary,

ROYAL

Tickets from £16

Tickets from £22

Recommended for all ages

www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Bluey’s Big Play is produced by Andrew Kay and Cuffe & Taylor with Windmill Theatre Co for BBC Studios.

SHOW I’VE SEEN ALL YEAR,

HALLELUJAH! A HEAVENLY REVIVAL “ ”

Don’t miss this eagerly anticipated brand new production of the Broadway and UK smash hit musical Sister Act direct from London.

All your prayers have been answered with a stunning cast, including Coronation Street and theatre legend Wendi Peters, recently seen in Royal & Derngate’s Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs, as Mother Superior, and West End star Landi Oshinowo as Deloris, everyone’s favourite nun on the run!”

Disco diva Deloris’ life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Placed under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she shouldn’t be found – a convent! Encouraged to help the struggling choir, she helps her fellow sisters find their true voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

Featuring original music by Tony® and 8-time Oscar® award-winner Alan Menken (Disney’s Aladdin, Enchanted) and songs inspired by Motown, soul and disco, this heavenly musical is joyous and uplifting in equal measures. A musical sent from above, Sister Act is the brilliant, must-see show which raises the spirits and warms the soul time after time.

Mon 10 – Sat 15 June

Eves 7.30pm

Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £22

BSL Interpreted

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Touch Tour

Access Information p. 60-61

Ghosts walking the corridors and crows who think they are ravens – join the Royal & Derngate Actors Company as they solve Another Bloody Murder

Written and directed by Scott Bradley (The Caucasian Chalk Circle), this brand new whodunnit draws on the best capers of country house detective stories, with a twist. Inept Inspector Cluedo, his endlessly patient and long-suffering sergeant, Officer Joan, and a colourful and rather odd collection of residents and guests navigate their way through mayhem, mishaps and murder.

So – Whodunnit? The Bluff Colonel? The Heiress? The Butler? Will Inspector Cluedo ever solve the case of the disappearing Duchess? Is he even in the right house? Drawing on the silliest of comedy traditions, the Actors Company blend the nation’s favourite mystery traditions with downright farce. This show contains adult themes, including some comedy violence and sexual references.

Fri 28 & Sat 29 June

Eves 7.30pm, Sat Matinee 2.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £10

Recommended for ages 12+

From Our Community

It’s time to step into the light. Escape with us for a night like no other, where we take you into a world where the very best of musical theatre showstoppers meets jaw-dropping circus spectacular.

A world that explodes into colour as everyone’s favourite West End and Broadway hits combine with breath-taking, amazing performances, incredible contortionists, and thrilling feats of agility and flair.

An all-star cast performing the big, big numbers from your favourite shows are joined by mesmerising circus stars – making for an enchanting production that is charming and astonishing in equal measure.

Enter the extraordinary world of Cirque

Roll up, roll up and book your seats now for an unforgettable night out – truly like no other.

Sat 29 & Sun 30 June

Sat 3pm & 7.30pm, Sun 1pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £31

www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Peppa Pig is back in her oinktastic brand new live show, Fun Day Out!

Join Peppa, along with her family and friends as they go to the zoo and also the beach for a special partyit’s going to be an exciting and fun packed day.

Prepare to sing and dance with colourful scarecrows, feed the penguins, build big sandcastles, and even swim in the sea!

Packed full of songs, dance and muddy puddles, Peppa’s Fun Day Out guarantees giggles and snorts for all Peppa fans, and a perfect introduction to theatre.

HHHH “A LOVING RECREATION OF THE TV SHOW… IT WORKS BEAUTIFULLY... YOUNG AUDIENCES DON’T WANT IT TO END. AND NOR DO ADULTS TO BE HONEST” The Stage

Experience some of the greatest hits of the ’80s with our Royal & Derngate Community Choir led by Musical Director Gareth Fuller.

Join us as we relive an incredible decade with songs and stories from those who have been there, done that and got the legwarmers.

This nostalgic and unique performance parties its way through some of the songs, events and styles of the ’80s, and invites you to dance along. The event is being held at the Picturedrome bar and live music venue, and celebrates a time of Rubix cubes, bubble perms and the cassette Walkman.

Big hair, ra-ra skirts and stonewashed jeans optional!

Wed 3 & Thu 4 July

Wed 1pm & 4pm, Thu 10am & 1pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £18

Fri 26 & Sat 27 July

Eves 7.30pm, Sat Matinee 2.30pm

THE PICTUREDROME

Tickets from £10

From Our Community

Join all of your favourite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar Alex the lion is the king of the urban jungle, the main attraction at New York’s Central Park Zoo. He and his best friends – Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe and Gloria the hippo – have spent their whole lives in blissful captivity before an admiring public and with regular meals provided for them. Not content to leave well enough alone, Marty lets his curiosity get the better of him and makes his escape – with the help of some prodigious penguins – to explore the world.

Starring CBBC and Strictly Come Dancing star Karim Zeroual as King Julien get ready to join Alex, Marty, Melman, Gloria and those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime. Filled with outlandish characters, adventure galore and an upbeat score, you’ll have no choice but to Move It, Move It!

Thu 18 – Sun 21 July

Thu & Fri 6pm, Sat 2pm & 6pm, Sun 11am & 5pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £17

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www.royalandderngate.co.uk

A Selladoor Worldwide and Theatre Royal Plymouth co-production of

CBBC &

Hollywood’s ultimate rom-com is now “a dazzling stage show” (Daily Express). Make a date to see Pretty Woman: The Musical live on stage at Royal & Derngate, starring Amber Davies (9 To 5, Back To The Future) and Northampton favourite Ore Oduba (Strictly Come Dancing champion 2016).

Direct from the West End, this smash-hit musical features a blazing rock score by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, direction and choreography by Jerry Mitchell (Hairspray, Kinky Boots) and all the iconic moments from the movie! Be swept up in the romance of this feel-good love story for the ages, which also stars Oliver Savile (Wicked, Phantom Of The Opera) as Edward Lewis and Natalie Paris (Olivier nominated for SIX) as Kit De Luca.

A perfect night of escapism for both dates & mates, book your tickets for a trip to Rodeo Drive and get ready for a big night out. Big. Huge!

Mon 9 – Sat 14 September

Eves 7.30pm

Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £22

Concessions, Groups and Stage & Screen Members discounts

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Direct from its triumph in the West End where it won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy and the Evening Standard Theatre Award, Pride And Prejudice* (*sort of) is a unique and audacious retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic love story.

Men, money and microphones will be fought over in this irreverent but affectionate adaptation where the stakes couldn’t be higher when it comes to romance. This multi-award-winning production features a string of pop classics including Young Hearts Run Free, Will You Love Me Tomorrow and You’re So Vain

It’s the 1800s. It’s party time. Let the ruthless matchmaking begin.

“TOTALLY DESERVES THE STANDING OVATIONS IT’S GETTING” Daily Telegraph

“A RAUCOUSLY IRREVERENT ROMP” Daily Mail

“ RIOTOUSLY FUNNY... GLORIOUSLY ENTERTAINING... SENSATIONAL” Variety

Mon 30 September –Sat 5 October

Eves 7.30pm

Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £10

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Two small-town kids from the middle of nowhere became the biggest folk heroes in all America. They craved adventure — and each other. Their names were Bonnie and Clyde.

Winner of Best New Musical at the WhatsOnStage Awards 2023, the West End cult-sensation is set to hold-up Northampton following two hell-raising seasons in London’s West End.

Starring Catherine Tyldesley (Coronation Street, Strictly Come Dancing) as Blanche, Katie Tonkinson (Bat Out Of Hell) as Bonnie and Sam Ferriday (The Cher Show) as Buck. Nate Landskroner (Waitress, Heathers) will play the role of Clyde at matinee performances, with Lauren Jones playing the role of Bonnie at Saturday matinees. The role of Clyde will be announced soon.

Fearless, shameless, and alluring, this award-winning production has garnered a mass following, much like the infamous pair themselves, and now they are set to take your city by storm. Discover the electrifying story of love, adventure and crime that captured the attention of an entire nation.

Tue 22 – Sat 26 October

Eves 7.30pm

Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £17

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You were brought into this world for a purpose. And your futures — all of them — have been decided.

Kazuo Ishiguro’s international best-selling novel arrives on stage in this world premiere of Suzanne Heathcote’s gripping new adaptation.

What if you discovered your whole reason for being was not about your life but about making someone else’s possible?

Your dreams, your desires, your love for another, all of them irrelevant in a world that values only what you give, without question or condition, to someone you’ve never met and will never know.

Memory and reality collide in this stunning new staging that challenges us to think about what it means to be human. What it means to have hope and heart — to love and to lose.

Royal & Derngate, Northampton, Rose Theatre, Bristol Old Vic, and Malvern Theatres present Never Let Me Go

Wed 16 – Sat 26 October

Eves 7.30pm (Thu 17 October 7pm)

Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £15

Concessions, Groups and Stage & Screen Members discounts

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Dementia Friendly

Access Information p. 60-61

Director Christopher Haydon

Writer Suzanne Heathcote

Based on the novel by Kazuo Ishiguro

Set & Costume Design Tom Piper

Movement Director Anna Morrissey

Casting Director Sam Jones CDG

Charlie loves reading. Especially books about pirates. But his sister hates it - it’s boring! Can Charlie convince her that reading is fun? Perhaps if she read a book about a pirate, who is reading a book about Goldilocks, who is reading a book about a knight...

Come and delve into a range of books with Charlie Cook, brought to life with puppetry and enchanting songs, and perhaps you will be able to help his sister discover the wonderful world inside a book.

This Little Angel Theatre, The Lowry and Rose Theatre co-production is based on the original book Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler

HHHH “A CHARMING MUSICAL” WhatsOnStage HHHH “EXQUISITE AND PLAYFUL PUPPETS”

The Stage

HHHH “FILLED WITH MUSIC, DANCE AND WONDERFULLY CREATIVE PUPPET MAGIC”

Time Well Spent Magazine

Text © Julia Donaldson 2005. Illustrations © Axel Scheffler 2005.

Tue 29 & Wed 30 October

Tue 3.30pm, Thu 10.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £17

Recommended for ages 3-8

A MUSICAL DRAMA BASED ON THE LIFE OF WALTER TULL

The inspirational story of Northampton’s legendary pioneering hero – Walter Tull – is brought to the stage in a new musical drama by award-winning playwright Dougie Blaxland and celebrated composer Chris Anthony

Commissioned by Show Racism The Red Card and produced in association with Live Wire Theatre, Our Little Hour explores how Walter Tull – grandson of a Barbadian slave – orphaned at eight years old rose to prominence against all odds.

The first black footballer to play at the highest level of the domestic game in the UK he went on to achieve yet another historic breakthrough as the first man of his heritage to be commissioned as an Officer in the British Army.

Thu 31 October – Sat 2 November

Eves 7.30pm, Sat Matinee 2.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £17

www.royalandderngate.co.uk

BOOK & LYRICS BY DOUGIE BLAXLAND & SCOTT BAYLISS MUSIC BY CHRIS ANTHONY

1943. Whilst Europe tears itself apart, two women hide from their past at what feels like the very end of the world. And one of them has a terrifying story to tell…

“I created life. You don’t believe me but it’s true. I didn’t start from scratch of course but out of portions and odd ends I made something –alive. But what I created… it wasn’t a superhuman. It was a monster.”

This new thriller inspired by the classic gothic novel and complete with a stunning original score explores the very fabric of what makes us human and the ultimate cost of chasing “perfection”.

This new story inspired by the classic novel by Mary Shelley, written and directed by Seán Aydon, is an electrifying reimagining of the world’s favourite horror story that will set minds and spines tingling.

HHHHH “COMPELLING AND HIGHLY ENGAGING... SOME CLEVER MODERN TWISTS” StageTalk Magazine

HHHH “MESMERISING AND THOUGHT-PROVOKING” All Things Theatre

Tue 12 – Sat 16 November

Eves 7.30pm

Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £22

Subscribe & Save! See page 4

TILTED WIG PRESENTS

BY SEÁN AYDON BASED ON THE NOVEL BY MARY SHELLEY

“A dream of a production... some kind of wonderful”

The Guardian

WRITTEN BY ROSS WILLIS

DIRECTED BY SALLY COOKSON

Olivier Award-winner Sally Cookson (A Monster Calls) directs the critically acclaimed Bristol Old Vic production of Wonder Boy by Ross Willis, a heart-warming and inspiring story about the power of communication.

Sonny is twelve. Living with a stammer, he’s finding his way in a world ruled by vicious vowels, confusing consonants, and let’s not forget the biggest beast of them all – small talk.

Packed with playful humour, dazzling visuals and thrilling original music this innovative production includes live creative captioning on stage throughout.

HHHHH “BOUNDINGLY IMAGINATIVE” The Times

Thu 21 – Sat 23 November

Eves 7.30pm, Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £17

Recommended for ages 12+ (strong language throughout)

BSL Interpreted

Relaxed

Captioned at every performance

Access Information p. 60-61

Cluedo is back on stage in 2024, with a brand new hilarious whodunnit.

Starring and Strictly champion Ellie Leach, Cluedo 2 is set in the swinging 1960s and introduces a new house, new suspects, and lots of new bodies, in this all-new tale of murder, mystery and secret passageways.

Directed by the director of The Play That Goes Wrong, Cluedo 2 is a blast! Watch our colourful characters try to survive the night and work out whodunnit... with what... and where!!

“PERFECT VIEWING NO MATTER WHAT YOUR AGE!”

Love London Love Culture

“THE BEST OF THEATRICAL COMEDY” Bristol 247

“SHEER COMEDY GENIUS... ONE FOR ALL THE FAMILY” Western Daily Press

Tue 26 – Sat 30 November

Eves 7.30pm, Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £15

BSL Interpreted

Audio Described

Touch Tour

Access Information p. 60-61

A BRAND NEW STAGE ADAPTATION

Join the Jolly Postman on a frosty, fairytale adventure in this brand-new stage adaptation from Royal & Derngate.

This award-winning story for all the family sees the Jolly Postman cycling through the snow to deliver parcels and letters to familiar friends as they prepare for Christmas celebrations.

There are visits to Red Riding Hood, Humpty Dumpty, the Gingerbread Man, and not forgetting the big, bad wolf!

As the snow continues to fall, who will help the Jolly Postman get home in time for Christmas?

Live music, original songs and a sprinkling of theatre magic bring this favourite festive classic to life for all ages to enjoy.

By arrangement with Penguin Books Ltd, a Penguin Random House UK company

Sat 7 – Sun 29 December

Times vary, see website ROYAL

Tickets from £14

BSL Interpreted

Audio Described

Touch Tour

Captioned

Relaxed

Dementia Friendly

Access Information p. 60-61

Box Office 01604 624811

Don’t miss our hilarious, fun-filled 2024 panto, Cinderella, with a star-studded cast to be announced.

This spectacular show will be written by Paul Hendy and produced by the award-winning Evolution Productions, the same team behind 2022’s smash-hit, Jack And The Beanstalk, and 2023’s brilliant Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs. It’s never too early to book, and with lavish sets, hilarious jokes and fun for the whole family, what’s not to love? So don’t be late for the ball… get your tickets now!

HHHHH “FANTASTIC” What’s Good To Do

HHHHH “ABSOLUTELY HILARIOUS” Toddle About HHHHH “EXCEPTIONALLY ENTERTAINING AND A THRILL FROM START TO FINISH” A Small Mind at the Theatre

* Quotes refer to 2023’s Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs

Fri 6 – Tue 31 December

Times vary, see website

DERNGATE

Tickets from £12

BSL Interpreted

Audio Described

Touch Tour

Captioned

Relaxed

Dementia Friendly

Access Information p. 60-61

Now booking...

GenFest 2024

Royal & Derngate’s Artist Development Festival –Calling All Artists!

GenFest is returning in 2024 and this is your chance to be one of our featured artists.

WHAT IS GENFEST?

Grow your ideas in a professional environment and turn your creativity into a show ready performance.

Test new work in front of an audience or attend our workshops and surgeries - anything is possible at GenFest as we are here to help you.

WHAT MIGHT YOU APPLY FOR?

As every show and your needs are different we will tailor a package of support that may include:

• A fee of up to £500

• Box office split

• Opportunity to present in our Royal auditorium or foyer spaces

• Entry in the festival brochure and website

• Marketing via social media and Royal & Derngate networks

• A recording of your show/sharing

• A technician to operate your sound/lighting

To find out more visit www.royalandderngate.co.uk/gen-fest or

• An opportunity for time with a member of the Arts Team

• A masterclass with the Royal & Derngate Marketing Team

• Support with additional funding applications should you require them

WHEN DOES IT TAKE PLACE?

Your submissions are due Monday 29 April and the Festival takes place from Monday 7 to Sun 13 October.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply or request an information pack, please email getinvolved@ royalandderngate.co.uk.

Also this season...

We’ve packed our summer season with a fabulous variety of entertainment at Royal & Derngate.

Top class comedy, theatre, music and family shows mean there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Visit us online

royalandderngate.co.uk

IAIN STIRLING

Relevant

Wed 20 March 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £24.50 I 16+

The BAFTA-winning comedian, ‘national sensation’ (Evening Standard) and ‘extremely funny’ (Daily Telegraph) Iain Stirling, is bringing his intuitive razor-sharp humour back on tour with a brand new stand-up show for 2024.

As the iconic voice of Love Island, star and writer of sitcom Buffering on ITV, and with his own stand-up special, Failing Upwards, on Prime Video, Iain hits the road once more with a brand new hour (of jokes) in his biggest tour to date! (It’s called Relevant if you’re interested).

LUCY BEAUMONT

The Trouble And Strife!

Wed 20 March 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £24.50 I 14+

It’s time for the wife to tour now.

Award-winning stand-up comedian BEFORE she met Jon Richardson, Taskmaster star and BAFTA nominee, Lucy Beaumont is going to let loose and let slip on her rollercoaster world.

Life through the Beaumont lens is more surreal than you could ever imagine.

HHHH “BEAUMONT’S BIG SKILL IS CAPTURING THE POETRY IN THE ORDINARY” The List “EXTRAVAGANTLY TALENTED”

The Guardian

“BEAUMONT IS A RIOT!”

The Scotsman

“FUNNY AND PAINFULLY RELATABLE” Radio Times

DANIEL O’REILLY Out of Character

Thu 21 March 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £27 I 16+

Daniel O’Reilly is still boasting one of the largest, strongest, most loyal and fastest growing social media followings in the UK that his fans has grown up with him through the years!

He has had many characters, but for this live show he’s going ‘Out Of Character’ to stand up as he brings the laughs and looks back on the mischief, the mistakes and the madness of his career so far. From losing it all, battling addiction and becoming a father he’s been on some rollercoaster and wants you to come for a ride with him, so grab your tickets now and make sure you got your seat belt on!

THE FATHER

Fri 22 & Sat 23 March

Fri 7.30pm, Sat 2pm & 6pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £17 I 12+

Subscribe & Save! - See page 4

From Our Community

Seen through the eyes of a man with dementia, The Father exposes the emotional toll it has on him and his family. Moving and at times heart-breaking, André’s story will be recognised by all too many families. Blisteringly honest but ultimately uplifting, it’s a story of our times. Recently an Oscar and BAFTA-winning film starring Anthony Hopkins and Olivia Colman, this production is by the award-winning White Cobra and stars local actors Ian Spiby as André and Kate Billingham as Anne.

The cast also includes Richard Jordan, Fraser Haines, Bernie Wood and Kimberley Vaughan with original music by Martin Heath. It is directed by Martin Borley-Cox. The portrait of André is by Willy Gilder who is living with dementia.

CHAKA

The Music Of Chaka Khan

Thu 21 March 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £27 I 14+

An exhilarating music show celebrating one of the world’s most gifted music icons and multiple Grammy award-winner, Chaka Khan. Honouring the legacy of a legendary singer and songwriter who has captivated audiences and inspired generations of singers for over five decades with her funk, soul, pop and dance hits, Chaka – The Music Of Chaka Khan is the ultimate musical tribute celebrating an icon.

Led by the incomparable Sulene Fleming (The Brand New Heavies, Incognito, The New Master Sounds) and featuring a stellar live band, this 2-hour music show encapsulates the true essence of Chaka Khan.

STRANGER SINGS

Sat 23 March 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £30

Tune in, children of the ’80s! Join us in the upside-down for this award-winning, smash hit new parody musical, Stranger Sings! This award-winning sci-fi spoof is a wild, irreverent twist on the hit Netflix series – in all its hair-raising, blockbuster glory.

Take a trip with your favourite gang on a night of indulgent pop culture references, heavy synth, poor parenting, dancing demogorgons and maybe – just maybe – you might find justice for Barb along the way.

Let the incredible original writing of Jonathan Hogue subvert the genre with this fearless parody, where there are too many mullets, a generous helping of fairy lights, and the ’80s finally embraces feminism. No mouthbreathers allowed.

THE BUBBLE SHOW

Sun 24 March 2pm ROYAL

Tickets from £15 I 3-12

Join Mr. Bubbles with his extraordinary soap bubbles in all shapes and sizes!

The Bubble Show is a unique blend of magic, storytelling, science and bubble art! Enjoy bouncy bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, smoke bubbles, square bubbles, giant bubbles and even fire bubbles!

Actor, storyteller and Guinness World Record holder, The Highland Joker, is one of the top bubble artists in the world, bringing you an interactive, fun, international award-winning bubble extravaganza!

HHHHH “FLAWLESSLY SIMPLE AND FULL OF WONDER” Deadline News

AN EVENING WITH ANTON DU BEKE AND FRIENDS

Tue 26 March 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £42

Strictly Come Dancing legend and judge, Anton Du Beke, takes to the stage! With his live band, guest singer Lance Ellington, and his dancers, expect a fab-u-lous evening of song, dance and laughter.

Anton will be performing some of his favourite songs and dances that have inspired his career throughout his life. Expect behind the scenes stories from his time on Strictly that will have you laughing out loud.

Don’t miss this special opportunity to get up close to the King of the Ballroom.

LOST IN MUSIC

Wed 27 March 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £28

Get ready to get Lost In Music! Join us as we recreate the magical ’70s and let us take you on a musical journey straight to the heart of disco!

Relive some of the greatest songs of all time from artists such as Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, Earth, Wind & Fire, Sister Sledge and Chic.

This show boasts a sensational live band, incredibly talented cast and stunning vocals and is sure to have you on your feet!

So, come dressed to impress as we celebrate the golden age of disco! With songs such as Never Can Say Goodbye, On The Radio, Hot Stuff, Car Wash, Boogie Wonderland and many, many more!

It’s the feel-good show of the year! Lose yourself with us and leave your troubles at home!

LIMITED AVAILABILITY

HAPPY MONDAYS

Thu 28 March 7pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £42

Legendary Manchester band Happy Mondays have announced their first headline tour in five years. The Been There Done That Tour will head to Northampton for Spring 2024, joined by very special guests and fellow ‘90s British music icons, Inspiral Carpets and Stereo MC’s

Happy Mondays, featuring original lineup – front man Shaun Ryder, Bez (freaky dancing and percussion), Rowetta (vocals) Mark Day (guitar), Gary Whelan (drums) and Dan Broad (MD/ guitar/keys), will perform the band’s classic hits such as 24 Hour Party People, Step On, Hallelujah, Loose Fit, Judge Fudge, W.F.L., and Kinky Afro, amongst many others.

COLLIDE A Choirfest Experience

Sat 30 March 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £22.50

From Our Community

After a show-stopping performance of Stand By Me at the wedding of The Duke & Duchess of Sussex, founder and conductor of the Kingdom Choir, Karen Gibson MBE will be sharing the stage with 200 voices at Collide: A Choirfest Experience This show features the award-nominated Northampton Male Voice Choir, Queen Eleanor Choir and Northants Sings Out (West) in a trailblazing collaboration of their musical genres and individual styles. The absolute finest from an array of artistic disciplines are also set to feature during this hotly anticipated musical experience. With specially arranged mass ensemble pieces led by award-winning MD Gareth Fuller, the evening features an all-star live band and string quartet.

JUSTIN MOORHOUSE

Stretch & Think

Sun 7 April 7.30pm

FILMHOUSE SCREEN 2

Tickets from £17 I 14+

Justin Moorhouse is back: still funny, yet middle aged.

A brand new show that may contain: yoga, getting older, Madonna, shoplifters, labradoodles, middle-aged cyclists, the menopause, running, hating football fans but loving football, not drinking, funerals, is tapas a rip off?, Captain Tom, Droylsden, the environment, self-improvement, ruining a sexual position, electric car charging spots used by doggers, nursery graduation, horses, Stig look-alikes, home cooked food in places that aren’t your own home, the odd advantages of fundamental religions, the gym, shop door etiquette.

And he’s got a new suit. Come, it’ll be fun.

TOMMY TIERNAN tommedian

Wed 10 April 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £29.80 I 16+

Tommy Tiernan’s brand new show tommedian is a fun fueled trip through the comic imagination of one of the best comedians in the world.

This is a wild, uninhibited and fiercely physical display of stand up. A madcap parade of characters, memories and ridiculous flights of fancy. Theatrical, poetical and slightly unhinged…. DON’T YOU DARE MISS IT!

Tiernan’s legendary recordbreaking ticket sales extend across the world. The star of Channel 4’s hit show Derry Girls and Live At The Apollo (BBC) and the host of his own highly critically praised improvised chat show.

This event is a phone-free show, please see our website for details.

CALLING PLANET EARTH

Thu 11 April 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £32

Calling Planet Earth: the show that defines a decade!

A new romantic symphony that goes on a journey through one of the greatest musical eras of all time – the electrifying ’80s. Featuring songs from now legendary artists such as Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, The Human League, Ultravox, Tears For Fears, Depeche Mode, OMD, Japan, ABC, Soft Cell and many, many more.

Performed by an incredible live band with awesome symphonic arrangements combined with stunning vocals and cast this, is the must see show that simply defines a decade.

THE CARPENTERS STORY

Fri 12 April 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £34.50

A musical journey through the glittering career of pop’s most famous brother and sister duo. This highly acclaimed production continues to captivate audiences across the UK with its spectacular celebration of the classic songbook that made The Carpenters a legend.

This brand new show features the outstanding vocal talents of Claire Furley, with Musical Director Phil Aldridge leading The Carpenters Story band as they re-create Richard Carpenter’s original orchestral arrangements including Close To You, Top Of The World, We’ve Only Just Begun, Rainy Days & Mondays, Goodbye To Love and many more!

MIXED BILL COMEDY MEGASHOW

Sat 13 April 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £27

A guaranteed great night out for couples, friends or colleagues.

After a hugely successful collaboration at Franklin’s Gardens in June 2023, Northampton based promoters The Comedy Crate are teaming up again with The Comedy Cow from Milton Keynes to bring you the best in comedy.

MC for the evening Boothby Graffoe will be joined by comedic powerhouse Omid Djalili, master of satirical comedy Marcus Brigstocke and the ‘riotously hilarious’ (The Guardian) Josie Long

THE BILLY JOEL SONGBOOK

Sun 14 April 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £27

The hugely acclaimed singersongwriter and pianist Elio Pace and his incredible band are set to thrill UK audiences once more with the smash-hit, award-winning show The Billy Joel Songbook

This exciting live show pays homage to one of the most iconic musicians, singer-songwriters and composers of the 20th Century, transporting the audience through a catalogue of Joel’s music.

Elio and his band will perform more than 30 hits, including The Longest Time, She’s Always A Woman, An Innocent Man, Uptown Girl, Tell Her About It, The River of Dreams, We Didn’t Start The Fire and Piano Man

“ELIO ROCKS” Brian May

THE BOOTLEG BEATLES

Mon 15 April 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £33.50

Regarded the world over as being the gold standard of tribute acts,The Bootleg Beatles return to Northampton for another nostalgic whirlwind trip through the sixties. With fastidious attention to detail, the band manage to spectacularly recreate the sound and look of the Fab Four through each iconic phase of their illustrious career, with what can only be described as uncanny authenticity.

Their rave reviews say it all. With a little help from their ever-popular orchestral ensemble this magical multi-media show is an absolute must-see for Beatle fanatics of all ages.

“ENTIRELY CONVINCING”

The Times

“LESS A TRIBUTE MORE A REINCARNATION” The Daily Telegraph

JULIAN CLARY A Fistful Of Clary

Wed 17 April 7.30pm DERNGATE

Tickets from £31 I 16+

You’ve heard of The Man With No Name? Well, here’s The Man With No Shame.

Julian Clary, renowned homosexual and national trinket, is fixing to saddle up and head on out for his 2024 UK tour.

“Yes, it has a Western theme,” the old buckaroo confirms, sipping Bourbon from a pint tankard. “It was only a matter of time before I eased myself into some chaps” he adds, dabbing his temples with a damp flannel.

“THE MASTER OF CAMP COMEDY... MIXING THE EXPECTED WITH THE SPONTANEOUS, HE IS PURE ENTERTAINMENT” The Times “ADULT COMEDY THAT MAKES YOU GIGGLE LIKE A CHILD” The Standard

ED GAMBLE Hot Diggity Dog

Thu 18 April 7.30pm DERNGATE

Tickets from £27 I 16+

Ed Gamble has minced a load of meat (thoughts), piped it into a casing (show) and it’s coming to a bun (venue) near you.

There will be all your classic Gamble ranting, raving and spluttering but he’s doing fine mentally. Promise.

Co-host of the award-winning mega-hit podcast Off Menu with James Acaster, judge on Great British Menu, Taskmaster champion and host of Taskmaster the Podcast, and has his own special Blood Sugar available worldwide on Amazon Prime.

Also seen and heard on Mock the Week (BBC2), Live At The Apollo (BBC), The Russell Howard Hour (Sky), QI (BBC2), Would I Lie To You (BBC) and Sunday mornings on Radio X alongside Matthew Crosby. “COMEDY GOLD” Time Out

DON’T STOP BELIEVIN’

The End-Of-The-Night Anthems Show

Fri 19 April 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £34

Jump aboard the midnight train –heaven is a place on Earth called Northampton as the greatest endof-the-night anthems spectacular roars into town.

Guaranteeing a crazy, crazy night of non-stop, singalong favourites – 30 of the biggest songs are brought to life by a sizzling cast, fantastic costumes and amazing light show.

Featuring hits such as Summer Of ’69, I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll, Livin’ On A Prayer, Sweet Child O’ Mine, China

In Your Hand, You Shook Me All Night Long, Sweet Home Alabama and more, hold on to the feeling and Don’t Stop Believin’.

CUBE DISABILITY SHOW

Sat 20 April 6.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £20

From Our Community

Join us while we celebrate a Night At The Movies hosted by the Cube Disability Arts Academy. Follow us on a magical night of musicals featuring special West End guests and the incredible talent of the Arts Academy. Prepare for an unforgettable experience, as audiences are calling it “the most incredible show, so joyful and wholesome.” Come and see amazing individualities coming together to create something truly magical. This is more than just a show; it’s a celebration of the arts, and an opportunity for smiles to shine through. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable night – secure your tickets now for an evening that promises to leave you beaming from ear to ear!

RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC

Sun 21 April 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £32

Rumours Of Fleetwood Mac, the world’s finest tribute to Fleetwood Mac, returns to the stage in 2024 celebrating the very best of Fleetwood Mac.

Channelling the spirit of Fleetwood Mac at their very best, Rumours Of Fleetwood Mac offers a unique opportunity for fans, both old and new, to rediscover the songs and performances that have ensured Fleetwood Mac’s place as one of the most loved groups of all time.

Personally endorsed by Fleetwood Mac founding member, Mick Fleetwood, Rumours Of Fleetwood Mac is the ultimate tribute to one of rock and roll’s most remarkable groups.

GRIMETHORPE COLLIERY BAND

Sun 28 April 3pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £22

The acclaimed Grimethorpe Colliery Band return to Royal & Derngate.

They bring a programme of classic brass band repertoire and music from the film Brassed Off alongside newer works and entertaining solos.

National and British Open Champions on numerous occasions, the band’s contest successes remain legendary and they have performed all over the world. Their diverse range of performances include the FIFA World Cup, the BAFTA Awards, the BBC Proms, Eurovision and the London 2012 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony. They received a BAFTA nomination for their key role in the global hit movie, Brassed Off

“SENSATIONAL” The Times

ROSIE HOLT

That’s Politainment!

Sun 28 April 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £22

The worse the political career, the more lucrative the subsequent entertainment opportunities. Matt Hancock may have slaughtered millions but now he’s making a killing. So can Rosie Holt‘s viral hit MP follow “politainers” Dorries, Farage and Rees-Mogg and leap from the pages of Hansard to Heat?

Following a hugely successful Edinburgh Fringe season, Rosie takes this brand-new show on the road, to tightrope the thin line between politics and entertainment.

HHHH “A PINPOINT PORTRAYAL OF THE PERSONAE MANIFESTING OUR NATIONAL PSYCHE” The Observer

PUNT AND DENNIS We Are Not A Robot

Tue 30 April 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £32

Hugh Dennis and Steve Punt are back on tour for the first time in 10 years. Older but not really much wiser, they are returning to what they do best; sitting in traffic jams wondering if a different route would have been better, and then in the evening, presenting their new live show.

What have they learned from a decade of following the news for Mock The Week and The Now Show? What wisdom has experience taught them? And have they learned any new jokes? Let’s hope so. They promise they have.

RAY BRADSHAW

Doppelginger

Wed 1 May 8pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £18.50 I 16+

BSL Interpreted – see pages 60-61

Multi-award-winning comedian Ray Bradshaw is forever being told “you look just like my mate…” wherever he goes. It’s been happening for years and he’s worried about it. Either someone is cloning generic bald men or there’s a ginger bearded bald man out there who’s doing a bad job of stalking Ray. In his brand-new show Doppelginger, Ray is going to use the latest in genetic research (the internet) to try and put an end to this once and for all. He’s on a quest to find the person who looks most like him. If you have a bald, ginger bearded friend in their 30s (true at time of writing), then bring them along. You never know – they could be The One.

HHHHH “RAUCOUSLY FUNNY” BroadwayBaby

SCREAMING BLUE MURDER COMEDY CLUB

Doors 7.45pm, Show 8pm

ROYAL/FILMHOUSE SCREEN 2

Tickets from £17 I 16+

Line up may be subject to change, advance booking is recommended.

Join us for our popular comedy club with compère Dan Evans

This season features many of comedy’s rising stars:

Thu 2 May

Darius Davies

Jenny Collier

Joey Page

Sun 16 June

Gerry K

Sooz Kempner

Sun 14 July

Alistair Barrie

Sally-Anne Hayward

Sun 11 August

Andrew Bird

Meryl O’Rourke

www.royalandderngate.co.uk

SIX CHICK FLICKS

Or A Legally Blonde Pretty Woman

Dirty Danced On The Beaches While Writing A Notebook On The Titanic

Fri 3 May 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £24 I 13+

Two actors. Six beloved films. One hilarious parody!

This smash hit comedy parodies your favourite chick flicks in one hysterical, fast-paced show.

From the deck of the Titanic to the glittery pink halls of Harvard Law, watch as New York City comedians Kerry Ipema and KK Apple transform the stage with songs, dance breaks, and pop culture hilarity. If you love chick flicks, you’ll love this show. If you hate chick flicks… you’ll love this show!

HHHHH “GLORIOUSLY FUNNY”

Daily Mail

KEVIN QUANTUM

Sat 4 May 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £24

Explore the exotic space where science and magic meet with the magician-scientist-adventurer, trained by US magic legends Penn & Teller.

Kevin Quantum embarks on his first ever UK tour with an entrancing collection of unique magic inventions, stunning sleightof-hand and beautiful (yet deadly) stunts in a show – inspired by science but targeted at humans.

Fizzing with energy and moving moments (scientifically and emotionally) Kevin swings effortlessly from edge-of-yourseat astonishment to belly laughs – culminating with the ‘flaming cannonball’ illusion; a deadly, reimagined version of a Newton’s Cradle – the science desk toy.

HHHH “PART MAGIC, PART SCIENCE, PART COMEDY AND ALL GENIUS” Cream Magazine

GYLES BRANDRETH

Can’t Stop Talking

Sun 5 May 3pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £27

He’s back – and he’s unstoppable. Gyles Brandreth just Can’t Stop Talking. The jumper-loving This Morning star, who keeps popping up on Pointless, QI, Would I Lie To You?, Sunday Brunch, and The One Show, has been burbling and babbling since he was a baby, and in his hilarious new one-man show the award-winning raconteur (and holder of the world record for the longest-ever after-dinner speech – 12 and a half hours!) is trying to work out why.

From 40 years on Radio 4’s Just A Minute to four years on Channel 4’s Celebrity Gogglebox, he can’t keep his mouth shut. He even talks in his sleep. What’s it all about?

He’s going to tell you – because this is his life story.

“WILDLY FUNNY” Daily Mail

NC Jazz ART THEMEN’S NEW DIRECTIONS

Sun 5 May 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £17

THAT’LL BE THE DAY

Untitled-1 1 19/02/2024 12:43:36

Mon 6 May 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £28

TOM ALLEN Completely

Thu 9 & Fri 10 May 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £27

Art Themen formed this new band to showcase some of jazz’s lesser known gems from composers such as Thelonious Monk, bringing musicality to material that you wouldn’t normally hear. It reflects his desire for a fresh though accessible examination of this music and the additional firepower of compositions by Messrs Williams, Somogyi and Fishwick add further variety to the repertoire.

The band’s stellar lineup includes pianist Gareth Williams, trumpeter Steve Fishwick, bassist Arnie Somogyi and drummer Winston

Clifford

“A COLLECTIVE THAT MIGHT STAND COMPARISON WITH ANY IN THE WIDER WORLD OF JAZZ”

The Guardian

That’ll Be The Day is back on the road with another incredible show packed full of world-class performances from Trevor and the highly talented ensemble cast.

Let the world’s leading rock’n‘roll show take you on a journey through the years, as together you celebrate the most iconic moments in comedy, rock’n‘roll and pop culture from the ’50s right the way through to the ’80s.

Combining uproarious comedy sketches and impersonations with breathtaking vocals and dazzling musicianship, That’ll Be The Day truly is in a league of its own. It’s no wonder this show has been touring solidly for over 35 years and it just gets better and better!

“THE BEST ROCK ‘N’ ROLL SHOW ON THE ROAD” Time Out

Tom Allen has finally moved out of his parents’ house, which has been great news for him, better news for department stores and even better news for his latest stand-up tour as he’s eager to share his life updates, get your opinions on his vegetable patch and delve into the protocol of inviting friends with children for dinner.

The household name with his signature acerbic wit and riotous storytelling, Tom is the host of The Apprentice: You’re Fired, co-hosts Cooking With The Stars and Like Minded Friends, and is a regular on Bake Off: An Extra Slice and There’s Something About Movies

AN EVENING OF BURLESQUE

Sat 11 May 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £30

Roll up, roll up... for this scintillating night of sparkling entertainment as the UK’s longest running burlesque show comes to Northampton, bigger and better than ever.

Join us for a good old-fashioned night out as we bring you the ultimate variety show, blending stylish cabaret, comedy, music, circus and burlesque to light up all your senses.

With world-class entertainers and stars of the stage and screen –prepare for an extravaganza of glitz and glamour! Expect fun, feathers and fabulous costumes as we pick from the finest selection of specialty artistes, cabaret and circus stars, comedians, and champagne showgirls! It’s the perfect night for everyone. It’s cocktails and cabaret o’clock!

The University Of Northampton NELL GWYNN

Thu 16 May 2.30pm & 7.30pm & Sat 18 May 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £10

From Our Community

3rd Year BA Acting students at the University of Northampton present Nell Gwynn by Jessica Swale Jessica Swale’s comedy is set in the 1660s, after the ascension to the throne of Charles II. It begins in the playhouse in Drury Lane, London, where Nell Gwynn is an ‘orange hawker’ whose quick wit and remarkable beauty soon get her noticed. When she takes to the stage as an actress, she causes merry havoc in a traditionally male world, and soon comes to the attention of the King. But can her charm and spirit protect her from the dangers of the Court?

The University Of Northampton THE SWEET SCIENCE OF BRUISING

Fri 17 May 2.30pm & 7.30pm & Sat 18 May 2.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £10

From Our Community

3rd Year BA Acting students at the University of Northampton present The Sweet Science Of Bruising by Joy Wilkinson London, 1869. Four very different Victorian women are drawn into the dark underground world of female boxing by the eccentric Professor Sharp. Controlled by men and constrained by corsets, each finds an unexpected freedom in the boxing ring.

As their lives begin to intertwine, their journey takes us through grand drawing rooms, bustling theatres and rowdy Southwark pubs, where the women fight inequality as well as each other.

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra VERDI’S REQUIEM

Sun 19 May 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £17

Conductor Adrian Partington

Soprano Hye-Yoon Lee

Mezzo Soprano Annabella

Vesella-Ellis

Tenor John Findon

Baritone Ossian Huskinson

Northampton Bach Choir

Daventry Choral Society

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra finish their 2023/24 season in a performance of Verdi’s dramatic choral masterpiece.

Dies irae, dies illa… Trumpets blast, drums thunder and a mighty chorus cries out in terror. Verdi’s Requiem mass has been called the grandest opera he never wrote: thrillingly dramatic, blazing with emotion and conceived on an absolutely gigantic scale.

Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust BIG SING

Mon 20 & Tue 21 May 6.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £12

From Our Community

Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust presents a celebration of our singing heroes, featuring a massed primary school choir formed from schools across Northamptonshire.

WHITNEY QUEEN OF THE NIGHT

Wed 22 May 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £22

Experience the ultimate tribute to the musical repertoire of Whitney Houston in an electrifying production that honours her timeless songs with sensational vocalists and a full live band.

Prepare to be blown away by an extraordinary journey through three decades of all-time hits such as I Wanna Dance With Somebody, One Moment In Time, I’m Every Woman, I Will Always Love You, My Love Is Your Love, The Greatest Love Of All and many more.

Join us for an unmissable evening filled with live music, captivating choreography, and powerful vocals, as we pay homage to the one and only queen of the night.

Please note that this is a tribute production and is not endorsed by or affiliated with the Whitney Houston Estate.

www.royalandderngate.co.uk

BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET: BRB2

Sat 25 May 2.30pm & 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £12

After its spectacular sell-out world premiere performance at Royal & Derngate last year, Birmingham Royal Ballet’s BRB2 returns with Carlos Acosta’s Classical Selection, featuring some of the very best young dancers from around the world.

This unmissable show will take you on a whistlestop tour of classical ballet - you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll be amazed and astounded as these talented young dancers perform electrifying highlights from Carlos’s own temperature-raising Carmen (after Bizet), the iconic Swan Lake (Tchaikovsky) and many more.

HHHH The Times

HHHH Daily Telegraph

RUBY WAX

I’m Not As Well As I Thought I Was

Tue 28 May 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £29.50 I 14+

“The original idea behind this show was based on the extreme journeys that I wanted to take in order to find an antidote to living a frazzled life. Along the way I wanted to find meaning, peace, happiness – the stuff we’re all chasing. However, after some transcendent experiences, I ended up in a mental institution. Obviously, I didn’t find what I was looking for.”

I’m Not As Well As I Thought I Was is Ruby Wax’s first tour show in four years following her critically acclaimed, sell-out tour, How To Be Human

HHHH “DEEPLY THOUGHTFUL AND RESOLUTELY FROTHY”

The Times

EMMANUEL SONUBI

Curriculum Vitae

Wed 29 May 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £18.50 I 16+

Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Emmanuel Sonubi presents a whistle stop tour through the jobs that have led him to become one of the hottest stand-ups on the circuit in the brand-new show, Curriculum Vitae

He will take the audience on a hilarious and sometimes poignant journey that explores the professions that he’s had prior to becoming a comedian, discussing how those experiences helped shape his comedic voice. From working in IT to the doors of London’s nightlife whilst building up an impressive list of musical theatre credits.

“SIDE-SPLITTINGLY FUNNY. ROARING LAUGHS”

The Independent

FIONA ALLEN

Thu 30 May 8pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £18 I 16+

Double Emmy Award-winner and star of Smack The Pony Fiona Allen is touring her debut stand-up show!

Like most working mums, since her children were born she hasn’t had a moment for herself. Now free, she has tried new hobbies, new places, even attempting to get fit – difficult when your spirit animal is a sloth! With nowhere left to turn she decided to go on the road as a stand-up. A show about family, marriage, and things that truly annoy her. It’s a show for everyone, even those passive-aggressive school mums…

NC Jazz THE EDISON HERBERT QUARTET

Fri 31 May 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £17

Prepare for an enchanting evening with The Edison Herbert Quartet

The quartet will deliver a repertoire that includes tracks from Edison’s latest masterpiece, All I Need, alongside a selection of timeless favourites. This intimate musical journey will weave through both past and present compositions, treating the audience to engaging grooves, heartfelt ballads, and toe-tapping numbers.

The band features Edison Herbert on guitar, Sean Hargreaves on piano, Winston Clifford on drums and Neville Malcolm on bass.

AN EVENING WITH HARRY REDKNAPP

Sun 2 June 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £39.50

VIP Package available

After a sell-out two years of touring in over 60 venues, Harry Redknapp returns to regale us with stories from his football and TV career.

Once again featuring Terry, your host for the evening and the ever popular Noel Brodie as question master, this entertaining evening is one of the funniest, most entertaining talk shows on the circuit.

KEITH BRYMER JONES LIVE

Life, Clay and Everything

Mon 3 June 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £32 I 14+

Renowned British designer, bestselling author and The Great Pottery Throw Down judge, Keith Brymer Jones returns to the stage as he shares stories of life in front of and behind the potter’s wheel. Join Keith live in conversation with his beloved partner, actor Marj Hogarth – their relationship and on-stage chemistry making for a show like no other.

What’s more, Keith will take the audience on a journey through shapes, giving an exclusive on-stage demonstration at his much-loved pottery wheel and sharing his advice and top tips about working with clay.

MARK SIMMONS Quip Off The Mark

Wed 12 June 7.30pm ROYAL

Tickets from £19 I 16+

As Seen on Mock The Week, BT Sport and ITV, ‘Master of oneliners’ Mark Simmons brings his brand-new show on the road. Mark recently joined Dara Ó Briain and Hugh Dennis on BBC2’s Mock The Week as a semi-regular on the show and now brings you his hotly-anticipated show Quip Off The Mark. He’s also been appearing on BT Sport’s DIY Pundit and The Rugby’s On

This isn’t your average one-liner show as there is the running theme throughout. This year Mark’s parents have sold the house he grew up in and he has to collect his box of stuff from the loft.

Come discover what’s in the box in this top-level, one-liner show structured in a way you’ve never seen before.

“THE QUICKEST QUIPSTER IN SHOWBUSINESS” Evening Standard

HEJIRA

A Celebration of Joni Mitchell

Fri 14 June 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £24

Hejira is a 7-piece band set up to celebrate and honour the masterpiece works of Joni Mitchell

Comprising highly experienced world-class musicians, this band is fronted by the brilliant Hattie Whitehead who not only has – in her own way – assimilated the poise, power and beauty of Joni’s vocals, but also plays guitar with Joni’s stylistic mannerisms.

Expect an evening of the great songs from Mitchell’s back catalogue, such as Amelia, Woodstock, Black Crow, Hejira, Song For Sharon, A Case Of You, Help Me and many more.

“THEY’RE SUPERB LIVE, SO CATCH THEM IF YOU CAN”

The Guardian

AURIE STYLA The Aurator

Sat 15 June 8pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £17

After a year of performing worldwide, award-winning comedian Aurie Styla is back on tour, with his biggest one to date.

Join him as he talks about this wild world, and his journey to make sense of it, in The Aurator!

As seen on Deep Fake Neighbour Wars (ITVX), Comedy Central Live, Jonathan Ross’ Comedy Club (ITV), Life’s A Pitch (Sky), Don’t Hate The Playaz (ITV), The Stand Up Sketch Show (ITV2), Mo Gilligan’s Black British & Funny (C4) and more.

Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust

THE FESTIVAL

Tue 18 & Wed 19 June 7pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £12

From Our Community

An opportunity to share in and celebrate Arts performances by young people from some of the county’s primary and secondary schools, who will be showcasing their talents, skills and irrepressible energy for you.

In partnership with Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust, this promises to be a truly memorable experience for the young people, their teachers and leaders and you, their audience.

LIMITED AVAILABILITY

JAMES ACASTER

Hecklers

Welcome

Thu 20 – Sat 22 June &

Tue 9 & Wed 10 July 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £30 I 14+

Captioned – see pages 60-61

“One of comedy’s most original voices” (Evening Standard) has written a new show. He’s very proud of it. That being said, you are allowed to ruin it. Fill your boots.

“A COMEDY GENIUS AT THE PEAK OF HIS POWERS” THE Guardian

“A REMARKABLE STORY-TELLER, A COMEDIAN WHO CAN IDENTIFY ONE SITUATION AND SPIN IT INTO AN ELABORATE, MULTIFACETED, AND THEMATICALLY RICH NARRATIVE” Vulture

The July performances will be filmed for commercial release; as a member of the audience, you consent to your image being used as part of the recording. This show on Sat 22 June will be captioned.

DANCING SCHOOLS UK

Sun 23 June 10am, 2pm & 6pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £20.50

From Our Community

Join us for the toe-tapping Grand Final of Dancing Schools UK run by Step by Step Dance School Ltd. This is the 11th year of this fabulous Ballroom and Latin dance event designed to encourage school children from across the region to have a try at dancing and nurture team work.

In this Grand Final, finalists of the regional school heats across Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire will compete against each other to win the coveted Dancing Schools UK title and Glitter Ball trophy.

Years 1 & 2: 10am

Finalists from Years 1 & 2

Years 3 & 4: 2pm

Finalists from Years 3 & 4

Years 5 & 6: 6pm

Finalists from Years 5 & 6

STEVE BUGEJA Self Doubt (I Think)

Sun 23 June 8pm

FILMHOUSE SCREEN 2

Tickets from £15.50 I 16+

The creator and star of ITV2’s hit sitcom, Buffering, is back on the road following a sell-out 2022 tour and a critically acclaimed run at the 2023 Edinburgh fringe festival. He’s appeared on Stand Up Central (Comedy Central), Zoe Ball On Sunday (ITV), Love Island: Aftersun (ITV2) and hosted BBC Radio 4’s Economics With Subtitles

This year he’s discussing babies, eye tests and the time he went on holiday with 20 women.

“STEVE’S A CHARMING, LIKEABLE STAND-UP WITH A SET PACKED WITH GAGS” Sunday Post

“AN EYE FOR COMIC DETAIL THAT’S ALL HIS OWN”

The Guardian

“PLENTIFUL JOKES AND COMPELLING STORYTELLING”

The Scotsman

ANTON DU BEKE AND GIOVANNI PERNICE

Together

Tue 25 June 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £48

VIP Package available

After the hugely successful Him & Me tour, the nation’s favourite double act, Anton Du Beke and Giovanni Pernice, are back with their brand new live tour –Together!

Strictly Come Dancing’s Anton and Giovanni will bring you more fun, more dance, more song, and even more entertainment.

With a collection of breathtaking routines, innovative choreography, and a seamless blend of traditional and contemporary dance styles, plus musical theatre, Anton Du Beke and Giovanni Pernice – Together guarantees an unforgettable evening of entertainment.

HHHHH Sunday Express

UK PINK FLOYD EXPERIENCE

Fri 28 June 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £28.50

Celebrating 30 years since the iconic PULSE tour, this highly authentic show recreates the atmosphere of Floyd live –featuring top-flight musicians, a stunning light show and over two hours of incredible music.

The new show for 2024 includes many songs from The PULSE set, featuring tracks from The Division Bell, The Wall, Animals, The Dark Side Of The Moon and Wish You Were Here. The “Syd song” for 2024 is Astronomy Domine. Also included is the much requested Not Now John from The Final Cut Come and share the passion for Pink Floyd’s music, in our true celebration of all things Floyd!

SOLD OUT

MIRIAM MARGOLYES

Oh Miriam! Live

Mon 1 July 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £27 I 16+

An unforgettable adventure through the extraordinary life and strong opinions of Miriam Margolyes, live on stage in her biggest tour yet to mark the launch of her new book.

BAFTA-winning actor, voice of everything from Monkey to the Cadbury’s Caramel Rabbit, creator of a myriad of unforgettable characters from Lady Whiteadder to Professor Sprout, Miriam is one of the most recognisable actresses working today.

From being escorted off the Today programme (for saying what we were all thinking) to declaring her love to Vanessa Redgrave, she is our most loved and most outspoken national treasure – and Oh Miriam! takes you both inside her head and her heart.

ALI COOK: PRINCIPLES OF DECEPTION

Fri 5 & Sat 6 July 7.30pm

ROYAL

Tickets from £17 I 10+

As a child, Ali Cook was given a copy of a 1948 book The Principles Of Deception. It was the first book to describe every type of magic trick and this summer he is going to perform them all in one incredible show, co-written with celebrated comedian Dave Gorman, with choreography by award-winning dance company BirdGang Ltd.

Thrilling, funny and fast paced, see acclaimed magician Ali Cook, star of TV’s Penn & Teller Fool Us and Secret World Of Magic, in this magical tour de force, prior to the West End.

“ONE OF THE MOST SOUGHTAFTER ILLUSIONISTS ON THE PLANET” GQ

HHHH “JAW DROPPING MAGIC” Metro

GET IT ON!

Sat 6 July 7.30pm DERNGATE

Tickets from £32

It’s time to bang a gong and Get it

On for one night of glam rock from the producers who brought you hit show Lost In Music

Girls rock your boys as we bring you the biggest glam rock show of a generation. An outrageous celebration of a golden age, live on stage. The costumes, the make-up, the music...

You ain’t seen nothing yet. So, bring your tiger feet and join us for a night like no other. We will transport you back to a time dreams were made of.

Featuring the biggest hits from T.Rex, Mud, Slade, Bowie, Suzi Quatro, Wizzard, Sweet and many more. Come on feel the noize and dress to impress for this feel-good show of the year!

“IF YOU LOVE THE 70S AND LOVE TO BE TRANSPORTED BACK...

IT REALLY IS FOR YOU”

BBC Radio Tees

Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust GENERATIONS

Sun 7 July 12pm & 6pm DERNGATE

Tickets from £10

From Our Community

NMPAT Summer Festival of Music: New Generation Concert- 12pm

End of year performances by the County Junior Orchestra, NMPAT Singers, County Junior Brass Ensemble, Jazz 3, County Junior Strings and County Junior Wind Orchestra

NMPAT Summer Festival of Music: Second Generation Concert - 6pm

End of year performances by the County Training Wind Orchestra, Guitarlactica, County Training Brass Band, Jazz 2 and County Training Orchestra

Limelight Theatre School SHOWSTOPPERS

Sun 14 July 1pm & 5pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £17.50

From Our Community

Limelight Theatre School are back once again with another fabulous show.

The talented pupils will be celebrating everything Musical Theatre in this exciting production featuring songs and dances from all your favourite West End and Broadway Shows.

So get your Jazz hands ready as we present Showstoppers

UNCANNY

I Know What I Saw

Mon 22 July 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £22

Due to phenomenal demand, the sell-out hit show Uncanny: I Know What I Saw with Danny Robins is back in 2024!

In 2023 Danny asked the questions – do ghosts exists? And if not, why do we see them?

25,000 people at theatres across the country came to find out the answers, in the biggest live investigation into the paranormal. Ever.

You now have another chance to join Danny and his team of experts for this terrifying and thought-provoking evening, featuring chilling real-life stories of the supernatural experienced by ordinary people from ordinary places, brought to life onstage through thrilling theatrical invention in a mix of projection, sound and spellbinding storytelling.

MILTON JONES HA!MILTON

Sun 15 September 7.30pm

DERNGATE

Tickets from £34.50

This is not a musical. Milton Jones is tone deaf and has no sense of rhythm, but at least he doesn’t make a song and dance about it. He has more important things to discuss. Like giraffes… and there’s a bit about tomatoes.

You might know him from Mock

The Week, Live At The Apollo or Radio 4. Or that time he stood for the Scottish National Party, fought a hard campaign, but in the end had to respect the wishes of the people of Cardiff.

A whole new show of daftness. You know it makes sense.

WARNING: contains jokes from the start.

“HE’S FAST, ABSURD AND VERY FUNNY” Radio Times

“NO-ONE CAN TOUCH JONES WHEN HE HITS HIS STRIDE”

The Guardian

Coming Soon...

SOLD OUT

SARAH MILLICAN

Late Bloomer

Wed 18 September 8pm

Tickets from £34.50

SARAH KEYWORTH

My Eyes Are Up Here

Fri 27 September 7.30pm

Tickets from £23

THE WONDER OF STEVIE

Sun 6 October 7.30pm

Tickets from £27.50

LIMITED AVAILABILITY

BEVERLEY KNIGHT

Thu 19 September 7.30pm

Tickets from £27

RACHEL PARRIS

Fri 27 September 7.30pm

Tickets from £20

THE AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD

Tue 15 October 7.30pm

Tickets from £37

ADAM KAY

Undoctored

Tue 24 September 7.30pm

Tickets from £29.50

FERN BRADY

I Gave You Milk To Drink

Sun 29 September 7.30pm

Tickets from £25

RUSSELL HICKS

Happy To Be Here

Sun 20 October 8pm

Tickets from £18

Get Involved...

in being creative together... in developing new skills... with singing... with acting... with youth theatre... with your community... with inspiring artists...

ROYAL & DERNGATE COMMUNITY CHOIR

Our resident choir provides opportunities to develop singing skills and be part of live performances. Members are diverse in terms of age, background and culture, but all share a passion for singing and performance. Explore different musical genres, increase your musical confidence and have fun singing with others. A great way to relax and boost your wellbeing through song.

The choir will be performing as part of Collide: A Choirfest Experience on Sat 30 March (see page 36) as well as bringing you Retro Reminiscence, a nostalgic and unique performance that parties its way through some of the songs, events and styles of the ’80s on Fri 26 & Sat 27 July (see page 18).

Email: getinvolved@ royalandderngate.co.uk

THE ACTORS COMPANY

For those aged over 21, our non-professional Actors Company perform classic, contemporary and new work commissioned by Royal & Derngate. Led by theatre practitioners, members enjoy masterclasses in performance skills such as voice, movement and text, as well as working alongside professional directors to devise, rehearse and perform productions.

Join our Actors Company as they solve Another Bloody Murder, written and directed by Scott Bradley (see page 18).

Email: getinvolved@ royalandderngate.co.uk

MIXED NETWORK NORTHANTS

Join us each month for a vibrant exploration of mixed-race identity, where open engaging discussions meet creative workshops designed to enlighten and inspire. These are relaxed, fun, social sessions with like-minded individuals. Your story is a piece of the mosaic we’re building—come and share it at our welcoming sessions.

Supported by Jenny Lebbon, People In Harmony and Northampton Community Foundation

For more information email chris@onebrownbear.co.uk

Opportunities For Young People

YOUTH THEATRE AND YOUNG COMPANY

Do you love acting and performing? Enjoy being creative? Want to develop your skills further in a fun and friendly theatre environment? Want to gain industry experience working with theatre professionals? Then our Royal & Derngate Youth Theatre and Young Company groups are for you! Weekly sessions provide a great way to build confidence and social skills, develop key theatre skills and make new friends who share your love of theatre. Email: getinvolved@ royalandderngate.co.uk

ACTING GROUPS

Young Company suitable for ages 14-21

Interested in developing your acting skills working with texts? Want to experience working with a director? Then sign up to our Young Company acting group and journey through character development, script work and methods of staging plays.

SATURDAY YOUTH THEATRE

Act One suitable for ages 8-10

Act Two suitable for ages 11-13

Come and work with some brilliant professional theatre makers to increase confidence, express ideas, collaborate with other young people and explore theatre skills such as script-writing, developing characters and creating your own theatre. No previous experience required –just a playful, positive attitude.

MUSICAL THEATRE GROUPS

Youth Theatre Musicals suitable for ages 10-13

Young Company Musicals suitable for ages 14-21

Royal & Derngate’s popular Musicals groups are perfect for young people who love acting, singing and dancing. Members attend fun weekly sessions to develop key theatre skills such as acting through song, choreography, vocal technique and performance.

A limited number of free bursary places are available upon request. Contact getinvolved@ royalandderngate.co.uk for more information.

Artist Development Opportunities

GENERATE

Royal & Derngate’s Artist Development programme has supported over 6000 artists since 2012 to create work and develop their careers. The Generate programme is designed to work closely with local artists to support their needs and provide opportunities for advice, mentorship, rehearsal space, masterclasses and networking.

To access information please join our mailing list by emailing getinvolved@royalandderngate. co.uk and find us on Facebook by searching for GenerateRoyal & Derngate.

THROW IT AT THE WALL

Are you a theatre maker who’s interested in sharing new work? Got a scene up on its feet and want to

see if it has legs? Have an idea for a show that you want to talk through?

We are Fur Coat No Knickers Theatre, Generate Associate Artists of Royal & Derngate. We are running a relaxed group session for theatre makers and devisors who are looking to share, receive feedback and collectively bounce ideas around. If you’re interested in sharing material, attending a session, or finding out more information, please email furcoatnoknickerstheatre@ gmail.com

Session dates are: Mon 8 April, Mon 15 July and Mon 14 October 6-8pm.

EAST MIDLANDS ACTORS WORKSHOP

A supportive network for professional actors based in the region, providing professional development opportunities to develop your acting craft. Monthly

sessions and workshops are held at Royal & Derngate. For more information, please contact eastmidlandsactorsworkshop@ gmail.com

WRITING DOESN’T HAVE TO BE LONELY

We are currently supporting writers and their development through the Writing Doesn’t Have To Be Lonely group led by artist Dan McGarry and producer Caroline Nash This is an opportunity to develop writing skills, bounce ideas and share your work on the first Thursday of every month.

To sign up or for more information, please contact carolinelnash@ hotmail.com

STAGE & SCREEN MEMBERSHIP

Our memberships are designed to save you money and give you more. Whether you’re a theatre lover or film buff, there’s something for everyone, and with our Stage & Screen Membership you can enjoy the very best in entertainment from across both Royal & Derngate and Northampton Filmhouse.

DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE

Our Director’s Circle memberships give you everything from the Stage & Screen Membership and more! Get closer to the action at the level that suits you, all of which include a donation as part of the membership fee to help us continue our ongoing charitable work.

Access Information

ACCESS TICKETING SCHEME

By telling us about your specific needs and joining our Access Scheme, we can ensure that your tickets and seating are taken care of. Once registered, you will also be able to receive free or discounted tickets for your companion when you visit. To apply, please contact the Box Office, email access@royalandderngate.co.uk or visit www.royalandderngate.co.uk/access

ACCESSIBLE PARKING

There are Disabled/Blue Badge holders’ parking spaces to the front of Royal & Derngate in Albion Place surface car park (NN1 1UD). Disabled badge holders can park free along Derngate (NN1 1TY) and Guildhall Road (NN1 1DP) in permitted spaces.

BUILDING ACCESS

Royal & Derngate has level access into the building and into each auditorium, with wheelchair spaces in both. Please be aware that there is a steep hill to walk up from St John’s Car Park to the Main Entrance on Swan Street.

WHEELCHAIR USERS & MOBILITY SCOOTERS

If you are a wheelchair user or wish to transfer to a seat, please contact the Box Office so we can ensure that suitable seating is allocated. Should you need to use a mobility scooter to get to your seat, we can assist with a wheelchair we have for use in these instances. Scooters can be safely left outside the auditorium.

GETTING TO YOUR SEAT

Due to the discovery of RAA Concrete, getting to your seat may temporarily be slightly different.

DERNGATE AUDITORIUM

• For the Stalls there are up to 16 steps up the auditorium, with level lift access for access patrons.

• For the Circle there are up to 20 steps up to the auditorium, with no lift access.

• For the Upper Circle there are up to 35 steps up to the auditorium, with no lift access.

ROYAL AUDITORIUM

• For the Stalls there are 19 steps down to the auditorium, with lift access for access patrons.

• For the Circle there is level access from the street into the front of the auditorium with 14 steps up to the rear of the auditorium.

• For the Upper Circle there are up to 36 steps up to the auditorium, with no lift access. Our dedicated Access Hosts wear orange ties so they stand out from the team. They are always on hand to assist anyone with mobility/additional needs.

ASSISTANCE DOGS

Assistance Dogs are welcome. Water and free ‘doggy’ ice cream can be provided for all service dogs. If you wish to take your dog into the auditorium, please mention this when booking your ticket so a suitable seat can be assigned to you. Our Access Hosts are always happy to look after any Assistance Dogs.

ACCESSIBLE TOILETS & CHANGING FACILITIES

Accessible toilets and changing facilities are available in the main foyer. There is an adult changing facility with hoist located next to Underground 1&2, accessible by lift. Please let us know in advance of your visit if you may require access to this facility.

BROCHURE

Large print and audio versions of this brochure are available on request. Please call Box Office on 01604 624811

NORTHAMPTON FILMHOUSE

A range of Access Enhanced Screenings are also available at Northampton Filmhouse. These include Audio Described, Dementia-Friendly, AutismFriendly, Subtitled and Parent & Baby. All films have Audio Enhancement available. To find out more visit www.northamptonfilmhouse.com/access

For more information about Accessibility at Royal & Derngate and Northampton Filmhouse, please contact Box Office on 01604 624811

www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Please use the symbols throughout this brochure and the listings below for Access Enhanced Performances. For performances beyond July 2024 please visit our website.

RELAXED

During these performances elements of the show are adapted to reduce anxiety and stress. Whilst the narrative of the show does not change, we make small adjustments to sound levels and special effects. Ideal for those on the autistic spectrum, younger audiences or those with learning difficulties or additional needs.

Moby Dick Sat 13 April 2.30pm

Maggie & Me Sat 8 June 2.30pm

CAPTIONED

At these performances large screens are positioned on either side of the stage and present the actors’ spoken words into visible text.

James Acaster Sat 22 June 7.30pm

BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE (BSL) INTERPRETED

These performances have BSL interpretation throughout, delivered by an interpreter who stands to the right of the stage in a spotlight.

The Time Machine Thu 28 March 7.30pm

Life Of Pi Thu 4 April 7.30pm

Moby Dick Thu 11 April 7.30pm

Shrek The Musical Thu 25 April 7.30pm

King Arthur Thu 25 April 7.30pm

Ray Bradshaw Wed 1 May 8pm

Grease Thu 16 May 7.30pm

The School For Scandal Thu 23 May 7.30pm

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie Thu 30 May 7.30pm

Maggie & Me Sat 8 June 7.30pm

Sister Act Thu 13 June 7.30pm

Madagascar The Musical Thu 18 July 7pm

DEMENTIA FRIENDLY

These performances support audience members living with Dementia, their families, friends and carers. We make small adaptations to the show to which may include sound and light levels. There are extra staff on hand to support audiences and we have a relaxed attitude to movement and audience reactions during the show.

AUDIO DESCRIBED & AUDIO ENHANCED

These performances are described to audience members through headsets. The description is live and details all of the action that is taking place on stage. A 15-minute introduction before the performance describes the cast, character relationships, details about costume, set and any visual effects.

The Time Machine Wed 27 March 7.30pm

Life Of Pi Wed 3 April 7.30pm

Moby Dick Fri 12 April 7.30pm

Shrek The Musical Wed 24 April 7.30pm

Grease Wed 15 May 7.30pm

The School For Scandal Wed 22 May 7.30pm

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie Wed 29 May 7.30pm

Maggie & Me Fri 7 June 7.30pm

Sister Act Wed 12 June 7.30pm

Madagascar The Musical Sat 20 July 2pm

Sennheiser Mobile Connect

We provide Sennheiser Mobile Connect, a Wi-Fi based audio enhancement system. This enables us to provide Audio Description for certain performances and Audio Enhancement all shows, which can be listened to using your own smartphone/tablet and headphones.

Find out more at www.royalandderngate.co.uk/ sennheiser-mobile-connect

PRE-SHOW TOUCH TOURS

For many of our Audio-Described Performances, we offer a free Touch Tour. This is an opportunity to experience the stage up close. You will be able to explore and touch set pieces, props and costumes. Touch Tours last around 30 minutes and are for our blind and visually impaired customers. Spaces are limited so please speak to our Box Office team when booking your ticket to a performance.

Life Of Pi Wed 3 April 6.30pm

Moby Dick Fri 12 April 6.30pm

Shrek The Musical Wed 24 April 6.30pm

Grease Wed 15 May 6.30pm

The School For Scandal 22 May 6.30pm

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie Wed 29 May 6.30pm

Maggie & Me Fri 7 June 6.30pm

Sister Act Wed 12 June 6.30pm

Madagascar The Musical Sat 20 July 1pm

61 Box Office 01604 624811

Booking Information

BOX OFFICE OPENING HOURS

Box Office telephone lines are open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-6pm. Our Box Office counter service is available Tuesday-Friday 12pm-6pm and Saturday 10am-6pm. If a performance is scheduled on Sunday or Monday our Counter will open no later than 1 hour before, and remain open until 15 minutes after the start of the last scheduled performance. If there are no performances we remain closed on a Sunday and Monday.

We encourage customers to use cashless payment options in order to reduce contact at our bars and Box Office. We accept all major credit and debit cards, Apple Pay or Google Pay. You can also pay with National Theatre Tokens or Royal & Derngate gift vouchers.

DISCOUNTS/CONCESSIONS

Under 16s, Over 60s, Students, Job Seekers and Access Patrons may be able to claim a discount on their tickets. Please let us know if you are eligible for a concession at the time of booking and note that at some performances only certain types of concession may apply.

• Stage & Screen Members also often make savings on our regular ticket prices.

• For selected performances an allocation of tickets can be purchased at reduced prices by Groups, who also benefit from extended payment terms. For more information email group.bookings@ royalandderngate.co.uk or call 01604 620066.

• Our Subscribe & Save package offer reduced prices when booking for three or more shows – details on page 4.

• Only one discount can be applied per ticket and all discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time.

• When booking performances that allow free entry for babes-in-arms, please inform Box Office how many you will be bringing. Age limits for free babes-in-arms tickets can vary.

TICKET DELIVERY

Tickets can be sent electronically free of charge and may be printed at home or displayed on a smart phone upon entry. There is a £1.50 fee applicable to post your tickets to a UK address. We recommend that we do not post any tickets booked within 10 days of the performance, and instead will hold them at the Box Office for collection and a £1 fee applies for this service.

TRANSACTION FEE

A non-refundable transaction charge of £4 applies to all bookings of £20 and over, except for Members, Access Patrons and Group Bookers. This charge is only applicable per-transaction and not per-ticket. The transaction charge exists to support the running costs of Royal & Derngate. As ticket revenue is divided between many different parties, an increase in ticket prices may not necessarily benefit the theatre. By adding a transaction charge, we ensure that every penny goes directly to Royal & Derngate. We will continue to tell you about these charges when you book tickets with us.

CONDITIONS OF SALE

Once purchased, tickets are non-refundable except where a show is cancelled or postponed. Ticket exchanges may be offered for the same production on payment of a small per ticket fee. For sold out shows we will accept returned tickets for re-sale up to 24 hours prior on the understanding that a gift voucher (less transaction fees) will be provided if the tickets are re-sold. Any tickets found to be sold via an unauthorised agent may be void without refund and the ticket holder refused entry.

When booking, customers now have the option to add refund protection to their tickets via a third party provider, Booking Protect. This protects your ticket should you be unable to attend a show for reasons outside of your control such as illness. Please visit our website for full details on our conditions of sale.

STAYING IN TOUCH

Our Box Office and website will ask when you book if you wish to receive further information from us about Royal & Derngate’s events and activities. We will record your wishes and use them to inform what you receive from us in future. You can update these preferences at any time by accessing your account via our website or by calling Box Office. Full information on how we use your data can be found at www.royalandderngate.co.uk/privacy

Visitor Information

GETTING HERE

Royal & Derngate, 19-21 Guildhall Rd, Northampton NN1 1DP

Royal & Derngate has entrances on Swan Street, Guildhall Road and Derngate. Please check your pre-show email to find out which entrance to use which may vary from what you are used to. The Northampton Filmhouse is located adjacent to Royal & Derngate in Albion Place and can be accessed from Derngate.

Both venues are located in the centre of Northampton, approximately 15 minutes by car from the M1 and an hour from London by train. The postcode for SAT NAV devices is NN1 1DP. The train station is a 15 minute walk from the theatre.

CAR PARKING

The closest car parks are St. John’s Multi-Storey Car Park and Albion Place Car Park. See the map for additional car parks. There are also a number of pay and display on-street options available. Please don’t hesitate to talk to Box Office at time of booking if you have any concerns about your visit. For further information, including parking charges,please visit www.northampton.gov.uk/parking

RESPECTING EVERYONE IN OUR SPACES

BE AN ALLY – Everyone deserves to feel valued and supported. Racism, homophobia, and other hateful behaviours have no place in our society, and will not be tolerated in our spaces.

BAG CHECKS – These keep everyone safe. Please make your bags are available so that we can check these quickly.

ENJOY THE SHOW – Be considerate of the performers and the people around you. We love to see you enjoy the shows; it’s why we do what we do. However, if behaviours become obstructive or create an unsafe environment, we will ask that they stop.

FORGET YOUR PHONE FOR A WHILE

Switch to silent. Please do not take pictures or film during performances.

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EATING AND DRINKING – Super loud or smelly foods are best avoided in the theatres and cinema. Please don’t bring your own alcohol. It will be confiscated and you can collect it as you exit.

We have introduced a new set of guidelines to encourage all of our visitors to be respectful and have the best possible time while attending our venues. P1

P2

55 spaces

P6 Mayorhold NN1 3HA

www.royalandderngate.co.uk

WHAT IF I’M LATE? – We might ask you to wait a few minutes until there’s a good point for you to go in.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

All details were correct at time of going to print. We reserve the right to make any alterations to the programme, performers, times, ticket prices and Box Office opening hours. All concessions are subject to availability and some may only be available for a limited period. All prices are subject to change. Proof of status will be required on the first purchase of a concessionary ticket and can be checked on any subsequent ticket purchase. Some events or performances may be advertised in the national media prior to publication in the brochure and this is beyond the control of the Management. For full T&Cs see www.royalandderngate.co.uk/terms-conditions

P4 The Ridings NN1 2BT

P5 Commercial St. NN1 1PN

What’s On

For full Access Performance listings please see pages 60-61.

Join Our Business Club

Looking to put your brand in the spotlight and have a great night out along the way? We’ve got just the ticket. Whether you’re interested in staff recognition, client entertaining, or unique ways to increase your brand exposure, a business club membership is a great way to get involved!

To find out more, email businessclub@royalandderngate.co.uk.

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR MEMBERS

THANK YOU TO OUR FUNDERS & SUPPORTERS

Northampton Filmhouse offers the discerning cinema-goer an affordable, unrivalled experience in Northampton.

You can sit back in the comfort of luxury, reclining leather seats to enjoy a range of snacks and drinks while you watch the very best in world, independent, British and mainstream films.

On top of our standard programme, our screenings include those exclusively for parents and their babies, silver screenings for our more mature visitors, captioning, audio description and audio enhancement, and regular LGBTQIA+ and Dementia-Friendly screenings.