Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre 2019 Season Brochure

Your Entertainment Centre CONTENTS

Welcome to our 2019 Season, Messages from the Mayor & Centre Manager................. 1

SHOWS

The Sapphires | 21 February | Musical Theatre........................................................................... 2 Australian Booty | 9 March | Cabaret.............................................................................................. 4 The Divine Miss Bette | 23 March | Cabaret................................................................................. 6 TWO | 26 March | Comedy Theatre................................................................................................ 8 360 ALLSTARS | 2 & 3 April | Urban Circus.................................................................................10 My Urrwai | 10 & 11 April | Theatre...................................................................................................12 Stephen K Amos | 2 May | Comedy...............................................................................................14 Possum Magic | 7 & 8 May | Families.............................................................................................16 Jump First, Ask Later | 21 May | Parkour & Youth Theatre.......................................................18 The Wine Bluffs | 13 June | Comedy............................................................................................. 20 Robot Song | 15 – 17 July | School Holiday Fun .......................................................................22 Hitler’s Daughter | 6 August | Theatre for all Ages...................................................................24 Diplomacy | 10 August | Theatre.................................................................................................... 26 Sydney Symphony Orchestra | 17 August | Classical...............................................................28 Lady Sings it Better | 31 August | Cabaret ..................................................................................30 Picasso and His Dog | 3 & 4 September | Families..................................................................32 Lady Beatle | 24 October | Music ..................................................................................................34 Arts Education: Shows for Schools ..............................................................................................36 2019 Morning Matinee Season....................................................................................................... 37

GENERAL INFORMATION

Become a Member: 5 Reasons Why............................................................................................38 My Theatre Mates...............................................................................................................................39 Encore Dining Options......................................................................................................................40 Hire Our Venue for a Special Occasion.......................................................................................41 Access Services | Key Contacts.....................................................................................................42 Important Information.........................................................................................................................43 Thank You..............................................................................................................................................44

Welcome to our 2019 Season

What I love most about the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre is how it brings people together – encouraging them to laugh, sing, dance, connect, and celebrate.

It’s fantastic that we have the opportunity to meet up with family and friends, new and old, in the foyer as we gather to see works which bring into the spotlight our contemporary Indigenous culture, music from around the world, national and international stars of comedy, plus some of Australia’s best regarded actors and singers.

The team at the Entertainment Centre has created a richly diverse programme for 2019, and just one of the many highlights will be the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

There really is something for everyone in this year’s line-up of great acts and there’s a strong focus on programming for young people with urban circus, puppetry, animatronics and more.

See you at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre.

Amanda Findley

Mayor | Shoalhaven City Council

Ever stopped to think about the cultural playlist of your life?

Great music and theatre are the most wonderful expression of humanity – filling our hearts and souls.

These melodies, rhythms, lyrics and stories speak to us, entertain us, and help us explore and understand where we fit in the world.

This playlist may pre-date us with the songs our parents fell in love to…the nursery rhymes and picture books of infancy... the anthemic numbers you sang at the top of your lungs with high school friends…

And of course, the sentiments and soundtracks from your favourite musicals or movies that give you goosebumps, and in some way shape your identity.

Our 2019 Season is full of rich stories, powerful songs, and lots of laughter.

Some of our 2019 shows evoke memories, some respond boldly to the here and now, others call us to a happier future. Each and every one of them is outstanding. We feel certain you’ll Find Your Song at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre in 2019.

Karen Patterson Centre Manager

1

MUSICAL THEATRE A Production by Christine Harris and HIT Productions

The Sapphires Written and Directed by Tony Briggs

A new production of Australia’s beloved modern classic.

The Sapphires is one of Australia’s best-loved stories, winning multiple awards as a play, film and soundtrack album.

Four Aboriginal women, who like singing country music, suddenly get the chance to change their tune, and their lives. Wearing uniforms of sequins, armed only with microphones, they find themselves trying to spread joy in the hell that is the Vietnam War.

The Sapphires is a funny, heart-warming tale inspired by the true story of writer Tony Brigg’s mother. It tells of the incredible journey of a singing group of four Yorta Yorta Women, who sing Motown soul hits against the backdrop of personal change and massive social upheaval.

It is an energetic, fun and engaging play that affirms life and the realisation of dreams.

Cast Ngaire Pigram, Matilda Brown, Mindy Kwanten, Lorinda Merrypor, Mike Smith Producer Christine Harris and HIT Productions Playwright & Director Tony Briggs Associate Producer Kylie Bracknell (Kaarljilba Kaardn) Musical Director Nathaniel Andrew Set & LX Designer Mark Howett Choreographer Leonard Mickelo ENCORE DINING SHOW PACKAGE AVAILABLE

See page 40 for details

Thursday 21 February | 8pm AUDITORIUM EXCLUSIVE MEMBER EVENT

2

Running Time

Approx 2 hrs 20 mins (incl interval)

Recommended For

Ages 7+. Some adult themes, simulated warfare and a small amount of coarse language.

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30 $52.50, Adult $65, Conc $55

Meet & Greet the stars after the show.

Refer to our website for further information.

WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY TONY BRIGGS

A GEM OF A PLAY… HEARTFELT AND JOYOUS BRYCE HALLETT, SYDNEY MORNING HERALD 3

CABARET Black Honey Company & Regional Arts Victoria present

Australian Booty Written by Candy Bowers Candy B’s Australian Booty is an entertaining mix of comedy, social commentary and of course booty shaking!

From the Afro-Aussie sisters behind international smash hit Hot Brown Honey, comes a more intimate, yet fiercely powerful show about self-love. In a sumptuous hour of jokes, stories, music and spoken word this radical babe weighs-in on the Australian identity, interracial dating, Aussie TV and the beauty myth.

Candy B is political, poetic and a little bit naughty in this riotous one-woman romp about her rump. Set to a killer soundtrack created by her big sister the notorious Busty Beatz, Australian Booty will slam, shake and tickle you all the way to the dance floor.

WARNING - Side effects may include uncontrollable booty shaking and higher self-esteem.

Performer Candy Bowers Performer DJ Nancy Denis Composer Busty Beatz Directors Candy Bowers & Nelly Thomas Production Designer Candy Bowers Lighting Designer Daniel Anderson

Saturday 9 March | 8pm STUDIO SHAKE YOUR BOOTY WORKSHOP

4

Running Time

Approx 60 mins (no interval)

Recommended For

Ages 16+. Touches on adult themes.

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30 $44, Adult $49, Conc $46.50

Saturday 9 March | 2pm Learn to shake your booty with Candy Bowers. Suitable for everyone.

Refer to our website for further information.

Photo by Sean Young

ENCORE CAFÉ & BAR Open for drinks and snacks

NON-STOP FUNKY FUN HERALD SUN 5

CABARET Tenacious C & Neil Gooding Productions

The Divine Miss Bette Starring Catherine Alcorn

Big voice, big personality, and even bigger eyelashes.

Prepare to be mesmerised by award-winning stage sensation Catherine Alcorn in her hilarious portrayal of Bette Midler when she channels the People’s Diva in this thoroughly rapturous performance!

Fresh from her US and Sydney Opera House debuts and hailed by critics as “uplifting and life affirming” (Canberra Times) and “masterful” (The Courier-Mail), Alcorn has been thrilling audiences all over the world with her magnificent voice and razor sharp wit, renowned as “a jewel in the crown of Australian theatre” (Adelaide Now) Featuring an electrifying live band, Alcorn will take you on a thrilling rollercoaster ride back to the Palace Theatre, New York in 1973 when she belts out the diva’s early classics including Stay With Me Baby, You’re Moving Out Today, The Rose, Wind Beneath My Wings, Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, and In The Mood.

Produced by Tenacious C Presents and Neil Gooding Productions Musical Director Glenn Moorhouse

ENCORE DINING SHOW PACKAGE AVAILABLE

See page 40 for details

Saturday 23 March | 8pm AUDITORIUM

6

Running Time

Approx 2 hrs (incl interval)

Recommended For

Ages 15+. Occasional coarse language.

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30 $55, Adult $60, Conc $57.50

ABSOLUTELY HILARIOUS TIME OUT SYDNEY 7

COMEDY THEATRE An Ensemble Theatre Production

TWO

By Jim Cartwright

A misfit crowd of eccentric and hilarious individuals.

Directed by Ensemble Theatre Artistic Director Mark Kilmurry, Jim Cartwright’s timeless comedy TWO introduces fourteen colourful characters, all skilfully played by Brian Meegan and Kate Raison.

Set in the local pub, you’ll meet all the regulars, a misfit crowd of eccentric and hilarious individuals. There’s Moth, who fervently loves Maud (and every other woman); Mrs Iger, with her passion for quiet, strong men; possessive Roy, jealous of anybody who looks at Lesley (even the darts players); Alice and Fred and their Elvis obsession; and the publicans themselves – a married couple with an unspoken secret…

By turns funny, heart-warming and poignant, don’t miss this smash hit comedy.

Cast Brian Meegan and Kate Raison Director Mark Kilmurry Set and costume designer Alicia Clements Lighting designer Matthew Marshall Sound designer Neil McLean

ENCORE DINING SHOW PACKAGE AVAILABLE

Tuesday 26 March | 8pm AUDITORIUM EXCLUSIVE MEMBER EVENT

8

Running Time

Approx 1 hr 30 mins (no interval)

Recommended For

Ages 15+. Contains references to domestic violence.

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30 $54, Adult $59, Conc $56.50

Meet & Greet the stars after the show.

Refer to our website for further information.

Photo by Clare Hawley

See page 40 for details

WARMLY COMIC SYDNEY MORNING HERALD 9

URBAN CIRCUS Onyx Productions presents

360 ALLSTARS A phenomenal physical performance exploring all forms of rotation.

360 ALLSTARS connects the street with the elite to deliver a supercharged urban circus. Boasting a stellar international cast, including the two-time World Champion BMX Flatlander, two World Champion breakdancers, an internationally acclaimed basketball freestyler, and a World Record holding roue cyr artist, 360 ALLSTARS is a spectacular fusion of the extraordinary artistry that emerges from street culture.

Add to this a stunning live soundtrack composed by award-winning master musicians, coupled with spectacular video projections, 360 ALLSTARS is as aurally exciting as it is visually astounding.

A magnificent, colourful and astonishing expression of a generation that has reinvented public performance, 360 ALLSTARS is a revolutionary production that will leave you dizzy with excitement!

“The most thrilling stage show ever” Weekend Notes: ★★★★★ “Blindingly talented. The energy is infectious” Broadway Baby: ★★★★★ “Destined to be a sell-out” TV Bomb, Edinburgh: ★★★★★ Directed by Gene Peterson Music by Gene Peterson Video Design by Freddy Komp Lighting Design by Geoff Squires

AUDITORIUM MEET & GREET

10

Running Time

1 hr 10 mins (no interval)

Recommended For

Ages 5 to 105. Contains haze and strobe lighting.

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30/Child (2-18 years) $32.50 Adult $40, Conc $35 Family $112.50 (4 tickets, no more than 2 adults) School Groups: refer page 36 for prices Meet the performers after the show.

Refer to our website for further information.

Photo by Matt Loncar

Tuesday 2 April | 7pm Wednesday 3 April | 11am

ENCORE CAFÉ & BAR Open for drinks and snacks

INCREDIBLY TALENTED ATHLETES AND MUSICIANS THEATERMANIA, NEW YORK

11

THEATRE Performing Lines in association with ILBIJERRI Theatre

My Urrwai

Ghenoa Gela - little sister, daughter, granddaughter, comic, teacher, fighter, gold medallist, air guitarist, charmer, TV star, Torres Strait mainlander, walking political statement – has made a show.

This is your invitation into the complex political, social, colonial and cultural expectations she navigates every day.

Ghenoa is a recipient of both the renowned Keir Choreographic Award and the Deadly Funny Melbourne International Comedy Festival Award. Laughter and deep reflection go hand-in-hand in this unique and intimate story told through movement and words.

My Urrwai, supported by a stellar team including director Rachael Maza and dramaturg Kate Champion, is a revealing reflection on, and celebration of cultural and familial inheritance, and an unflinching comment on race relations in Australia.

Creator/Performer Ghenoa Gela Director Rachael Maza Dramaturg Kate Champion Composer Ania Reynolds Lighting Designer Niklas Pajanti Set & Costume Designer Michael Hankin Originally co-produced by Belvoir & Performing Lines in association with ILBIJERRI Theatre & Sydney Festival

Wednesday 10 April | 8pm Thursday 11 April | 11am STUDIO

12

Running Time

Approx 60 mins (no interval)

Recommended For

Ages 12+. Some coarse language.

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30/Child (2-18 years) $44 Adult $49, Conc $46.50 School Groups: refer page 36 for prices

Photo by David Charles Collins

ENCORE CAFÉ & BAR Open for drinks and snacks

ENGAGING, ENTERTAINING & ENLIGHTENING SYDNEY ARTS GUIDE 13

COMEDY Mary Tobin Presents

Stephen K Amos The Story So Far. Comedy superstar Stephen K Amos returns to Australia with a show celebrating the very best of the last 10 years.

An evening of brilliant favourites, classics and new material. Stephen has been touring the world and in 2019 brings his uplifting, sometimes cynical, always witty and feel good comedy back to Australia. This could be the swan song, a farewell and you won’t want to miss this strictly limited season.

“His material is impeccably crafted, his comic timing skilful and, throughout the show, his delivery remains conversational, amiable and relaxed as he strolls through local and global topics.” Herald Sun ★★★★1/2 “The laughs came thick and fast throughout. Don’t miss it” ★★★★ The Age

ENCORE CAFÉ & BAR Open for drinks and snacks

Thursday 2 May | 8pm AUDITORIUM

14

Running Time

1 hr 50 mins (incl interval)

Recommended For

Ages 16+. Some adult themes and coarse language.

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30 $44, Adult $49, Conc $46.50

LAUGHS CAME THICK & FAST THE AGE

15

FAMILIES A Monkey Baa Theatre Company production

Possum Magic Based on the book by Mem Fox and Julie Vivas

A brand-new stage adaptation of a magical Australian classic.

For more than 30 years, Mem Fox’s Possum Magic has captivated and enchanted young people all over Australia.

Grandma Poss loves making magic. She makes wombats blue and kookaburras pink. She makes dingoes smile and emus shrink. But one day, when danger arrives in the form of a snake, Grandma uses her most magical spell to make Hush invisible. Hush has many wonderful adventures. But being invisible isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, and Hush longs to see herself again.

One problem. Grandma Poss can’t find the spell to make Hush visible again. And then she remembers...this particular magic requires something more, something special, something to do with food…people food.

Possum Magic takes us on a whimsical journey to cities around Australia to find the food that makes Hush visible again.

Joined by an extraordinary creative team, Monkey Baa brings to life the characters, journey and love that has made Possum Magic the most-loved and best-selling Australian picture book of all time.

Based on the book by Mem Fox and Julie Vivas Adapted for the stage by Eva Di Cesare and Sandra Eldridge Directed by Sandra Eldridge Text copyright © Mem Fox 1983 Illustrations copyright @ Jules Vivas 1983

Tuesday 7 May | 1pm Wednesday 8 May | 10.30am & 12.30pm AUDITORIUM

16

ENCORE CAFÉ & BAR Open for drinks and snacks

Running Time

Approx 50 mins (no interval)

Recommended For

Ages 3 – 8. Performance will contain pyrotechnics.

Tickets

Adult/Child (2-18 years) $25 Conc (Pensioners & Seniors) $18 School Groups: refer page 36 for prices

AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE MONKEY BAA THEATRE COMPANY 17

PARKOUR & YOUTH THEATRE PYT Fairfield and Force Majeure

Jump First, Ask Later A Performing Lines Tour

Merging urban freestyling with contemporary dance.

Jump First, Ask Later is a high-octane multi award-winning urban portrait of the streets of Western Sydney.

Featuring members of the Dauntless Movement Crew and directed by acclaimed choreographer, Byron Perry, this multi award-winning show tells the stories of six young champions of Fairfield’s underground parkour and street style community.

See every flip, trick and drop of sweat in this celebration of the will-to-succeed from those growing up in one of Australia’s most vibrant areas.

Urban freestyle, parkour and dance intersect to create a killer theatre experience about finding your path by jumping over life’s obstacles.

Original Director & Choreographer Byron Perry Tour Director Karen Therese Tour Rehearsal Director Larissa McGowan Performers Dauntless Movement Crew AV Design Sean Bacon LX Design Ben Cisterne Sound Design Luke Smiles Originally produced by PYT Fairfield & Force Majeure Tour produced by Performing Lines

ENCORE CAFÉ & BAR Open for drinks and snacks

Running Time Approx 50 mins (no interval) Tuesday 21 May | 1pm & 7pm Recommended Ages 10+. Contains some loud music.

AUDITORIUM

For

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30/Child (2-18 years) $32.50 Adult $40, Conc $35 Family $112.50 (4 tickets, no more than 2 adults) School Groups: refer page 36 for prices

fairfield 18

BREATHTAKING TO WATCH KEVIN JACKSON’S THEATRE DIARY 19

COMEDY Hey Boss presents

The Wine Bluffs A comedy wine masterclass with Damian Callinan and Paul Calleja.

Ever wondered what wine goes best with Fairy Bread? Why hasn’t the ‘Champagne Spider’ caught on? These questions and many more will be inadequately answered by the self-styled sommeliers of comedy, Damian Callinan and Paul Calleja.

After intoxicating sold-out audiences across the country, The Wine Bluffs are here to do what they do best: bullsh*t about wine. Laying spurious claim to a reputation as renowned wine consultants, the duo, fresh from judging the Fruit Wine Section at The Rockhampton Show, will take you through the cellar door experience with a comedic twist.

They’ll help you match wine to Chiko Rolls, translate over-written bottle blurbs and identify the biggest Wine Wanker in the room: if you have a wine fridge set on two temperatures... it’s probably you.

The union of Callinan (Melbourne Fringe Comedy winner and three time Barry Award Nominee) and Calleja (stand-up and writer on Before The Game and countless other TV shows) has everyone’s palate salivating as they prepare to uncork their latest vintage and let the comedy breathe.

Cast Damian Callinan and Paul Calleja Producer Hey Boss Written by Damian Callinan and Paul Calleja Tour Manager Zillah Morrow ENCORE CAFÉ & BAR Open for drinks and snacks

Thursday 13 June | 8pm AUDITORIUM SHARED TABLES WINE TASTING EVENT

20

Running Time

Approx 60 mins (no interval)

Recommended For

Ages 18+. Strong language and adult themes.

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30 $44, Adult $49, Conc $46.50

Meet & Greet the stars and sample Crooked River Wines after the show.

Refer to our website for further information.

Wine Partner

WILDLY FUNNY WINESPEAK HERALD SUN

21

SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN Arena Theatre Company presents

Robot Song Written by Jolyon James

A smart young girl befriends a discarded robot and together they find their true voice.

When eleven-year-old Juniper May receives a petition signed by her entire class stating that she is ‘the most hated person in the school’ her life is thrown into complete meltdown. Juniper stops eating, she refuses to return to school and her parents become increasingly desperate. Finally, after exhausting all other avenues her parents resort to the only thing they have left, a giant singing robot.

Robot Song is a deeply personal story. It shares an honest, intensely funny and often unconventional window into writer, director Jolyon James’ experience parenting a child on the Autism Spectrum.

Robot Song is a genuine family show. It is joyful and full of hope. It is for any child who has ever felt isolated or pushed to the margins and any parent desperate for tools to help. The show employs cutting edge digital technology, startling animatronics and a beautiful original musical score.

Cast Ashlea Pyke and Phillip McInnes Director/Writer/Designer Jolyon James Assistant Director Sarah Branton Dramaturgy Christian Leavesley Composer/Musical Director Nathan Gilkes Monday 15 July | 6.30pm Tuesday 16 July | 11am & 2pm Wednesday 17 July | 11am & 2pm STUDIO Q&A

22

Script Consultant Anthony Crowley Costume Beth Sayer Lighting Design Paul Lim Production Manager Ben Van Dillen ENCORE CAFÉ & BAR Stage Manager Open for drinks and snacks Theresa O’Connor

Running Time

Approx 60 mins (no interval)

Recommended For

Ages 8-12 years. Contains themes about Autism Spectrum.

Tickets

All Tickets $22

A question and answer session will take place after the 2pm and 6.30pm performances.

LAUGH OUT LOUD HILARIOUS… A MUST SEE FIONA PARKER, ABC

23

THEATRE FOR ALL AGES A Monkey Baa Theatre Company production

Hitler’s Daughter Based on the book by Jackie French

Did Hitler’s daughter really exist?

The play begins early morning somewhere in the Australian countryside.

Four children wait for the school bus and they decide to play a game; a simple game of story-telling. As they shelter in the bus stop from a raging storm, Anna creates an intriguing story and simultaneously on stage we begin to hear the bombing of Berlin and we see Heidi crawl from a bunker.

With a large birthmark across her face, we discover that Heidi is the disfigured daughter of Hitler. Caught in the turmoil of war, she is hidden away by her father, one of the most dreaded men in history.

Today, in an age of fake news and fact manipulation, extreme ideologies and rising nationalism, there has never been a more important and relevant time to present this work. Hitler’s Daughter demands its young audiences to question the reality of truth, and notions of personal responsibility and prejudice.

Based on the book by Jackie French Adapted for the stage by Eva Di Cesare, Sandra Eldridge & Tim McGarry Directed by Sandra Eldridge Lighting Designer Luiz Pampolha Set and Costume Designer Imogen Ross Sound Designer Jed Silver The Voice of Hitler is played by Markus Weber

ENCORE CAFÉ & BAR Open for drinks and snacks

Running Time Approx 60 mins (no interval) Tuesday 6 August | 10.30am Recommended Ages 10+. & 1pm For

Q&A

24

Tickets

Adult/Child (2-18 years) $25 Conc (Pensioners & Seniors) $18 School Groups: refer page 36 for prices

A question and answer session will take place after each performance.

Photo by Heidrun Lohr

AUDITORIUM

WINNER – BEST CHILDREN’S PRESENTATION THE HELPMANN AWARDS

25

THEATRE An Ensemble Theatre Production

Diplomacy

By Cyril Gély.

Translated and adapted by Julie Rose.

After a sold out 2018 season, theatre legends John Bell and John Gaden reprise their roles in this unmissable production of this high-stakes WWII thriller.

In 1944 at the Hôtel Meurice, the Swedish diplomat Raoul Nordling and the German General, Dietrich von Choltitz meet, in a life or death situation, for the city of Paris.

On abandoning Paris, Hitler has ordered its destruction. Raoul has one night to persuade the General to leave the landmark city standing. The many twists and turns of their negotiations play out in this highly entertaining thriller by Cyril Gély.

Cast includes John Bell, John Gaden, James Lugton, Joseph Raggatt Director John Bell Assistant Director Anna Volska Translation & Adaptation Julie Rose Set Designer Michael Scott-Mitchell Costume Designer Genevieve Graham Lighting Designer Matt Cox Composer & Sound Designer Nate Edmondson Ensemble Theatre’s commission of the translation and adaptation of Diplomacy was made possible by the generous support of Jinnie and Ross Gavin.

ENCORE DINING SHOW PACKAGE AVAILABLE

Saturday 10 August | 2pm & 8pm AUDITORIUM

Running Time

Approx 1 hr 10 mins (no interval)

Recommended For

Ages 14+. Please note that a nicotine-free cigarette is smoked briefly during this performance.

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30 $64, Adult $69, Conc $66.50

VIP EVENT

Meet & Greet the stars over a glass of French wine and Parisian-inspired canapés after the 8pm performance: $89 (includes show ticket). Members pay only $64 (save $25).

Q&A

A question and answer session will take place after the 2pm performance.

26

Photo by Christian Trinder

See page 40 for details

THE STUFF THAT THEATRES ARE BUILT FOR SYDNEY SCOOP 27

CLASSICAL Mozart’s Symphony No. 29

Sydney Symphony Orchestra Delight in a program of Mozart and Respighi.

Mozart bequeathed wind players some of their most seductive and expressive music – including delightful concertos for oboe, clarinet, horn and bassoon. He also wrote a concerto for that very combination of instruments, and four of the principal players of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra will front the orchestra to perform this irresistible quartet-concerto.

Despite coming of age in turn-of-the-century Italy, Respighi’s fascination with the antique world inspired his Ancient Airs and Dances – gorgeous tributes to the Italian Renaissance and Baroque.

The Symphony No.29 has a magnetic appeal that could only be conjured by Mozart. The vivid theatricality of its first movement draws us to the edge of our seats, and the dazzling finale sparks like a firework.

Over almost nine decades, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra has come to be acclaimed as Australia’s leading orchestra. Resident at the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Symphony is dedicated to performing regularly across New South Wales, presenting a wide array of music – from classical to popular – in collaboration with artists and composers from around the globe.

Program: MOZART Sinfonia concertante in E flat for four winds, K297b RESPIGHI Ancient Airs and Dances: Suite III MOZART Symphony No.29

Saturday 17 August | 2pm AUDITORIUM

28

ENCORE DINING SHOW PACKAGE AVAILABLE

See page 40 for details

Running Time

Approx 1 hr 50 mins (incl interval)

Recommended For

Ages 12+.

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30 $45, Adult $60, Conc $50 Student/Child (2-18 years) $20

Photo by Anthony Geernaert

Andrew Haveron Violin-Director David Papp Oboe Francesco Celata Clarinet Euan Harvey Horn Fiona McNamara Bassoon and the musicians of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra

UTTERLY ENGROSSING PERFORMANCE SYDNEY MORNING HERALD

29

CABARET Presented by Maeve Marsden

Lady Sings it Better One of Australia’s most well-loved comedy cabaret acts.

Smashing expectations one soaring harmony at a time, four women take on the western world’s most famous male musicians and reinvent them. A high energy, hilarious and devilishly bizarre adventure through the darkest corners of pop, rock, hip hop and RnB, Lady Sings it Better gets audiences dancing in their seats, with their faces aching from laughter.

From Tom Jones to George Michael, Usher to Justin Bieber, Prince to Bruno Mars, Meat Loaf to The Beatles to every 90s boyband you can name, Lady Sings it Better rips through your expectations of well-loved songs revealing strange themes, surprisingly hideous lyrics and untapped musical potential.

Lady Sings it Better has sold out shows around the country, playing to critical acclaim at Sydney Comedy Festival, Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Festival of Voices, Sydney Fringe Festival, Gold Coast Arts Centre, Adelaide Fringe Festival, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and beyond. With backgrounds in musical theatre, jazz, pop, rock, folk and improvisation, the Ladies consistently deliver an incredible hour of entertainment for all tastes.

Cast Maeve Marsden, Libby Wood, Annaliese Szota (our 2019 Season cover shot) and Fiona Pearson, with Benjamin Kiehne, Lauren Allison and Hannah James

ENCORE CAFÉ & BAR Open for drinks and snacks

Saturday 31 August | 8pm STUDIO

30

Running Time

Approx 1 hr 30 mins (incl interval)

Recommended For

Ages 18+. Strong language, sexual references.

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30 $44, Adult $49, Conc $46.50

SASSY, PASSIONATE, & DOWNRIGHT HILARIOUS ARTSHUB

31

FAMILIES A Lemony S Puppet Theatre Production

Picasso and His Dog Written and Directed by Sarah Kriegler

For anyone who’s ever patted a dog or been moved by an artwork.

Inspired by this true story, Picasso and His Dog is a delightful show that celebrates the animals with whom we share our lives while exploring what it is to be creative and to create.

One fine spring morning in 1957, Lump arrived for lunch. Lump was an elongated sausage dog with floppy ears and an inquisitive nature. He looked around at Picasso’s villa and then into the deep, brown eyes of the man himself and decided he was home.

This work is a unique children’s puppet play that combines the art and story of Picasso with the extraordinary poems of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda and the text of Picasso’s contemporary and lifelong friend, Gertrude Stein.

The story travels across time and space in a series of imaginative leaps using puppetry to transform the detailed set design as the performers play with scale, shadow puppetry, visual illusions, painting and sculpting on stage.

Cast Ben Grant Puppeteer/Michelle Tamara Rewse Puppeteer/Francoise Jacob Wiliams Design Jonathon Oxlade with Yvette Turnball Lighting Design Rachel Burke Sound Design and Composition Jethro Woodward and Ben TD Producer Erin Milne, Bureau of Works

ENCORE CAFÉ & BAR Open for drinks and snacks

Tuesday 3 September | 10am, 1pm & 6pm Wednesday 4 September | 10am & 1pm AUDITORIUM

Running Time

Approx 55 mins (no interval)

Recommended For

Ages 4+.

Tickets

Adult/Child (2-18 years) $25 Conc (Pensioner and Seniors) $18 Family $75 (4 tickets, no more than 2 adults) School Groups refer page 36 for prices

Q&A

A question and answer session follows each performance.

32

PERFECT CAST, BRILLIANT PUPPETEERING THE BORDER MAIL

33

MUSIC A Little Red Company & Critical Stages Production

Lady Beatle

Originally produced by La Boite Theatre Company

A kaleidoscopic journey through The Beatles’ most monumental hits.

From the creators of celebrated Australian work Rumour Has It comes the mustsee live music event of the year.

Starring UK-born Australian stage and screen star Naomi Price (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Rumour Has It, Ladies in Black, The Voice Australia) and inspired by true accounts, Lady Beatle is a rollicking magical mystery tour soundtracked by The Beatles’ biggest chart toppers, including Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds, Eleanor Rigby, Yellow Submarine and Penny Lane.

Flanked by a live band, Price transports audiences to 1960s Liverpool, taking the audience along for the ride as she riffs off the cuff, invites them to join in the big numbers, and ultimately has them on their feet for the show’s epic mega-mix finale dance party.

Lady Beatle proved a runaway hit when it premiered at La Boite in 2017, drawing capacity audiences and standing ovations at each performance and unanimous critical and audience acclaim.

Cast Naomi Price with Mik Easterman, Andrew Johnson, Michael Manikus, Jason McGregor Created by Adam Brunes & Naomi Price Lighting Design Jason Glenwright Sound Design Jamie Taylor Costume Design Leigh Buchanan ENCORE DINING SHOW PACKAGE AVAILABLE

See page 40 for details

Thursday 24 October | 8pm AUDITORIUM

34

Running Time

Approx 1 hr 15 mins (no interval)

Recommended For

Ages 15+.

Tickets

Member/Group 8+/U30 $55, Adult $60, Conc $57.50

UTTERLY BRILLIANT THE COURIER-MAIL

35

Arts Education: Shows for Schools

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre provides multiple ways in which young people can engage with the arts, whether it’s through experiencing performances or participation in workshops.

TERM 1

360 ALLSTARS

My Urrwai

YEARS K-12 | $18 SCHOOL GROUPS 8+ STUDENTS

YEARS 7-12 | $25 SCHOOL GROUPS 8+ STUDENTS

A phenomenal physical performance exploring all forms of rotation.

A unique and intimate story told through movement and words.

WEDNESDAY 3 APRIL | 11AM

THURSDAY 11 APRIL | 11AM

TERM 2

Possum Magic

Jump First, Ask Later

A brand-new stage adaptation of a magical Australian classic.

Merging urban freestyling with contemporary dance.

TUESDAY 7 MAY | 1PM WEDNESDAY 8 MAY | 10.30AM & 12.30PM YEARS PRESCHOOL, K-4 $18 SCHOOL GROUPS 8+ STUDENTS

TUESDAY 21 MAY | 1PM YEARS 5-12 $10 PRIMARY SCHOOL GROUPS 8+ STUDENTS $25 HIGH SCHOOL GROUPS 8+ STUDENTS

TERM 3

Picasso And His Dog

Hitler’s Daughter

TUESDAY 6 AUGUST | 10.30AM & 1PM

TUESDAY 3 SEPTEMBER | 10AM & 1PM WEDNESDAY 4 SEPTEMBER | 10AM & 1PM

YEARS 5-8 $18 SCHOOL GROUPS 8+ STUDENTS

YEARS PRESCHOOL, K-6 $18 SCHOOL GROUPS 8+ STUDENTS

Did Hitler’s daughter really exist?

For anyone who’s ever patted a dog or been moved by an artwork.

More Information & Bookings Please pick up a copy of our 2019 Arts Education: Shows for Schools brochure.

In Person: Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre Order by Phone: 1300 788 503 Online: shoalhavenentertainment.com.au 36

One teacher free per school group of 8, additional teachers at student price.

2019 Morning Matinees Get together with your friends for the very best daytime entertainment in 2019 and complimentary morning tea!

Pirates to Pinafore TUESDAY 19 MARCH | 11AM

The Complete Works of Gilbert & Sullivan.

Caruso to Carreras: The Great Tenors WEDNESDAY 15 MAY | 11AM

A spectacular concert celebrating the legends.

This Girl | Starring Rachael Beck TUESDAY 23 JULY | 11AM

An enchanting insight into the life of a lady who has been in the limelight since she was 13.

Evening Stars with Jane Rutter & Peter Cousens WEDNESDAY 18 SEPTEMBER | 11AM

A magical day of musical romance.

Olivia Magic The Songs of Olivia Newton John TUESDAY 22 OCTOBER | 11AM

Celebrating Olivia Newton John’s remarkable career.

Santa Claus is Coming to Town TUESDAY 3 DECEMBER | 11AM

Melissa Langton and Mark Jones are back to wish you a very Merry Christmas!

SAVE! Stay after the show and enjoy a delicious twocourse lunch with your friends.

MEMBER $20 REGULAR $22.50

Purchase tickets to five of our matinees and you will receive a ticket to the sixth FREE. MEMBER/GROUP 8+ $20 | CONC $25 | ADULT $27

Lunch bookings and pre-orders are essential.

Pick up a copy of our 2019 Morning Matinees’ brochure or visit our website for further information.

37

TOP 5 REASONS

TO BECOME A MEMBER 1

2

ACCESS TO THE BEST SHOWS

3

ENCORE DINING DISCOUNTS

LEVELS OF MEMBERSHIP

SAVE ON SINGLE TICKET PRICES

4

PRIORITY BOOKING

5

NO PHONE TRANSACTION FEES

SINGLE Membership only $45 per year DOUBLE Membership only $75 per year

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER BENEFITS • Lowest prices for the 2019 Season shows in this brochure.

• Discounted prices for other shows when offered by the promoter – often cheaper than concession prices!

• Book tickets for the best seats in the house for our 2019 Season shows before they go on sale to the general public.

• Invitations to at least three Member events. This applies to 2019 Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre Season shows only (subject to availability).

• VIP invitation for Members and a guest to our 2020 Season Launch in December 2019.

• Regular e-news/mail about upcoming events and offers.

• Early bird special offers (subject to availability).

• Reduced prices for pre/post-show dining.

• 5% discount on purchases at our Encore Café & Bar (excludes specials).

• Exchange fee waived (when exchanging tickets up to 48 hours prior to the event).

• Pay no phone transaction or mailing fees.

Terms and Conditions: Single Membership benefits listed apply to the named cardholder ONLY and not to Member’s guests. A Member (Single) may purchase tickets for guests but membership prices only apply to the Member’s ticket. Double Membership is based on two names, one address; two separate cards will be issued. Preferred seat allocation (where possible). Membership cards are not transferable and the card must be presented for every transaction if requested. Proof of identity may be requested. Memberships expire 31 December 2019.

38

My Theatre Mates

Do you want to mingle with like-minded theatre lovers?

Then My Theatre Mates is for you!

Is there a show you really want to see, but can’t find anyone to go with?

There’s no joining fee to become a part of My Theatre Mates.

Just mention My Theatre Mates when purchasing a show ticket and you’ll be welcomed by a Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre host on the day of the performance, and introduced to other solo theatre-goers.

A special allocation of seats will be put aside for selected Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre 2019 Season shows, so you’ll be able to sit with your new mates. You can have a chat, meet for an interval drink, or share your reviews after the show.

My Theatre Mates tickets are available at the advertised prices for the following 2019 Season shows:

The Sapphires 21 February | 8pm Australian Booty 9 March | 8pm The Divine Miss Bette 23 March | 8pm TWO 26 March | 8pm 360 ALLSTARS 2 April | 7pm My Urrwai 10 April | 8pm Stephen K Amos 2 May | 8pm Jump First, Ask Later 21 May | 7pm The Wine Bluffs 13 June | 8pm Robot Song 15 July | 6.30pm Diplomacy 10 August | 8pm Sydney Symphony Orchestra 17 August | 2pm Lady Sings It Better 31 August | 8pm Picasso and His Dog 3 September | 6pm Lady Beatle 24 October | 8pm Plus Morning Matinee 2019 Season shows

TO BOOK: Call 1300 788 503 or in person at the Box Office. Quote My Theatre Mates when booking and you’ll be seated with your new mates.

Limit of one ticket per person. Tickets are subject to availability at the time of booking.

39

ENCORE FOOD & BEVERAGE OPTIONS

Encore Show Dining Packages Pre-show or post-show dining packages are available for most shows. Enjoy fresh and mouthwatering cuisine in our Gallery Restaurant. All our meals are house-made by our chef using fresh, local produce. Check the event details on our website for information regarding the meal package available for each show.

Dining bookings are essential. To ensure you don’t miss out, please book and pre-order your meal at least one week prior to the show by calling our Box Office.

Our Encore CafĂŠ & Bar serves a selection of hot drinks, sweets and cakes, assorted sandwiches and light meals, there is a fully licensed bar.

On show nights, you can also enjoy quick snacks.

OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 8am - 3.30pm 90 minutes prior to all shows.

The perfect way to catch up with friends and family.

Encore Bar Menu Packages For selected shows, enjoy our bar menu and beverage package. Menus are on our website in the event details for each show. Beverages included in the package are house wine, beer, tea, coffee or soft drink.

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre Members enjoy a 5% discount.

Conditions apply. See our website.

40

Hire our Venue for a Special Occasion Our packages are unique, and tailored to suit your individual needs.

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre is committed to excellence, quality and providing the very best experience for private functions and exclusive cocktail parties, corporate and gala dinners. We can organise and theme an event to suit your style and make it as individual as you are.

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre’s on and off-site catering embodies quality, style and service. We can cater for corporate events, including board meetings, training sessions, and conferences. We also offer packages for weddings, formals, and wakes.

We offer a number of flexible rooms, with a range of set-up options, conference support, custom catering and technical support. Our two main theatres (Auditorium and Studio), can hold approximately 900 and 190 people respectively, in theatre style seating. We also host cabaret-style dinners for up to 450 people in our Auditorium.

For further information about our services, please call us on 02 4429 5752 or visit our website.

41

Access Services Mobility Assistance Selected seats in each theatre are held for patrons who use wheelchairs or have other mobility concerns.

Patrons should advise the Box Office at the time of booking their seats.

We recommend you book early as spaces are limited.

Hearing Assistance The Studio and Auditorium theatres are equipped with an induction hearing loop compatible with T-switch hearing aids. Patrons should advise the Box Office at the time of booking their seats.

Companion Card Companion Card holders are entitled to a ticket for their companion, free of charge. These can only be booked in person or by phoning the Box Office. Please present your Companion Card when you collect your tickets.

Key Contacts Management

Box Office

Events

Food & Beverage

Marketing

Technical

manager@shoalhavenentertainment.com.au info@shoalhavenentertainment.com.au sec_events@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au

catering@shoalhavenentertainment.com.au

marketing@shoalhavenentertainment.com.au

C NNECT WITH US! Be the first to know about news 42

techs@shoalhavenentertainment.com.au

@shoalhavenentertainment @sec_nowra Sign up at marketing@shoalhavenentertainment.com.au

Important Information How to Book

Exchanging Tickets

Online: www.shoalhavenentertainment.com.au In Person: Box Office Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, Bridge Road, Nowra Phone: 1300 788 503

Patrons are charged $4.50 per ticket, per exchange, and original tickets must be returned to the Box Office at least 24 hours prior to the earliest performance. Paid Members of the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre do not pay an exchange fee (when exchanging tickets up to 48 hours prior to the event).

The Box Office is open Monday to Thursday & Saturday 9am to 5pm, Friday 9am - 6pm and Sunday 10am - 2pm and a minimum of 1 hour prior to events. We are closed on Public Holidays.

Reserved Seating Tickets are issued for reserved seating in the Studio and Auditorium unless otherwise stated.

Concession/Under 30 (U30)/ Children Ticket Prices Discounted prices are available for selected shows for Pensioner Concession Card holders, Seniors’ Card holders and full-time students. For children’s shows where there is a Student Group 8+ price, the concession price only applies to Pensioners and Seniors, a single student/child must pay the regular price. Proof of entitlement must be included when booking and may also be requested prior to admission to the theatre.

U30 tickets are not available online.

Ticket Fees No transaction fee applies for counter bookings. A $5.50 transaction fee applies to telephone bookings and a $2 transaction fee applies to online bookings. Postage (if required) is $5 per order. Members do not pay phone transaction or postage fees.

These fees are valid at time of printing.

Refunds Tickets cannot be refunded after purchase except if an event is cancelled, rescheduled or significantly relocated as outlined in the Live Performance Australia Ticketing Code of Practice. For more details visit www.liveperformance.com.au

Parking Free car parking is available at the venue or in surrounding car parks and streets, but can be quite limited during business hours and peak times. Patrons should allow approximately 30 minutes to park and be seated.

Latecomers Until there is a suitable break in the performance, latecomers will not be admitted to the Studio or Auditorium.

Cameras and Recording Equipment Due to copyright requirements and to ensure an enjoyable theatre experience for all patrons, cameras and recording equipment are not permitted in the Studio or Auditorium.

Mobile Phones Out of consideration for the artists and fellow patrons, mobile phones, audible paging devices and alarm watches must be turned off while in the Studio and Auditorium.

Dress Standard Most events have no stated dress code.

Best advice is to dress to suit the type of event you are attending, but “neat casual” is generally a good guide.

Terms of Entry Terms of Entry are printed on the reverse of your tickets. Please read these and be aware of all parties’ obligations.

Season and show information details and prices were correct at the time of printing, however, are subject to change where necessary and without notice.

43

Thank You Supporters of shows in our 2019 Season The producers of the following shows have been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

The Sapphires, My Urrwai, Possum Magic, Jump First, Ask Later, Robot Song, Hitler’s Daughter, Picasso and His Dog, Lady Beatle, TWO, Sydney Symphony Orchestra These projects are supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW. TWO, My Urrwai, Possum Magic, Jump First, Ask Later, Hitler’s Daughter, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Diplomacy

The Wine Bluffs, Robot Song, Picasso and His Dog, Australian Booty

Australian Booty, The Wine Bluffs, Robot Song, Picasso and His Dog

Lady Beatle

TWO, Possum Magic, Hitler’s Daughter, Diplomacy

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre 2019 Season Wine Partner

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre is a division of

44

Bridge Road, Nowra NSW 2541 P: 1300 788 503 E: info@shoalhavenentertainment.com.au www.shoalhavenentertainment.com.au ď‚‚ @shoalhavenentertainment ď‚™ @sec_nowra

Many thanks to our cover girl, local performer Annaliese Szota, who will be performing in Lady Sings it Better as part of our 2019 Season.