The Stables what's on brochure Issue 88

The Laine Dankworth Centre | Wavendon | Milton Keynes

Issue 88 | March - June 2024

world class music & entertainment

Supported using public funding by

box office 01908 280800 www.stables.org

Issue 88 Mar - Jun

welcome to The Stables

Located in the village of Wavendon, Buckinghamshire and only a few minutes’ drive from the centre of Milton Keynes, The Stables (registered charity 1178665) is one of the UK’s best-loved music venues.

Founded by the world-famous jazz musicians Sir John Dankworth and Dame Cleo Laine in 1970, the venue presents more than 400 performances each year across all musical genres in our two venue spaces – the Jim Marshall Auditorium (capacity 398) and Stage 2 (capacity 80) – and welcomes more than 100,000 customers through its doors.

A year-round programme of music-related workshops and courses for all ages and abilities to develop their musical skills is also available – for full details, turn to page 46.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

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keep up to date All details in the brochure are correct at time of going to print.

Visit our website at stables.org to keep up to date with all the latest updates as well as details of all our new shows going on sale throughout the year.

Issue 88 Mar - Jun

front cover artists contents JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM March April May June

4 - 13 13 - 21 21 - 28 28 - 33

STAGE 2 March - June

34 - 45

LEARN & TAKE PART March - June

46 - 53

And not forgetting Also on sale Booking & visitor information Diary

55 57 - 59 60 - 61 62 - 63

Mugenkyo: 30th Anniversary Tour Wednesday 15 May

page 24

Brighouse & Rastrick Band

information key

Sunday 17 March page 10

Friends and Founders are entitled to a 10% discount. Please notify the box office when making your reservation.

Graffiti Classics

New shows which are open for public booking from Friday 16 February. Prior to this date Stables Friends have priority

Wednesday 27 March page 12

Denotes an education event or a concert with an associated education event. Ask Box Office for details.

Curtis Stigers

This event takes place in Stage 2.

Thursday 27 June page 33

This event takes place in Mancini Forum.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

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Hejira: Celebrating Joni Mitchell

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

MARCH

Friday 1 March, 8pm

£20

Hejira are a seven-piece band set up to celebrate and honour the masterpiece works of Joni Mitchell, mostly from the late 1970s. Comprising highly experienced jazz musicians, the band are fronted by the brilliant Hattie Whitehead. Expect an evening of great songs from Joni’s back catalogue, including Amelia, Woodstock, A Case Of You, Song For Sharon and Edith And The Kingpin.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Cloudbusting: The Music of Kate Bush 5 Sep

Fred’s House

+ support from Elizabeth & Jameson Saturday 2 March, 8pm

£16.50

Having just won the Breakout Award at the 2023 NMG Awards, Fred’s House are working towards their fourth album which will be released later this year. In terms of style, it is quite a shift towards radio-friendly commercial pop, but still showcases their hooky song-writing and staple sound of summery folk-rock guitars and West Coast four-part harmonies.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Fugitives 2 Jul

Ceilidh Experience Concert & Dance Sunday 3 March, 1.30pm

£7

Come along and join in the dancing as participants from the Ceilidh Experience course present their new bands, performing a feast of traditional tunes for dancers and folk fans of all ages.

Our guest caller will guide you through the steps in what promises to be a fun afternoon of dance and music. No previous Ceilidh dance experience needed! Suitable for adults and older children (10+).

Kofi Baker’s Cream Faith Tuesday 5 March, 8pm

£25

Son of legendary drummer Ginger Baker, Kofi Baker is a name synonymous with drumming excellence. Without question Kofi not only continues but extends the family legacy with his outstanding skills, drive and dedication to his craft. Tonight, he celebrates some classic cuts from Cream and Blind Faith, in an evening featuring a host of top session musicians.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Are You Experienced? 15 Mar

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All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Blazin’ Fiddles £22.50

Wednesday 6 March, 8pm

Battle of the Bands 2024 Thursday 7 March, 7.30pm

£11, concessions £6

Come and see Bedfordshire’s epic musical talent of the future!

The Battle of the Bedfordshire Schools’ Bands is back – live at The Stables. Each Bedfordshire school sends its best bands to perform in an on-stage event in the hope of becoming champions. The event is organised by Inspiring Music Hub and Bedford Music Hub and sponsored by local companies including the awesome TT Rockstars and Marshalls.

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: RANT 2 Jun

MARCH

Encompassing a rare and virtuosic selection of the fiddle’s diverse Highland and Island voices, Blazin’ Fiddles have become one of the world’s most prolific music ensembles. The band’s frontline of Inverness’s Bruce MacGregor, Shetlander Jenna Reid, Nairn’s Rua Macmillan and Orkney’s Kristan Harvey ignites atop a second-to-none accompaniment from Anna Massie and Angus Lyon.

Promoted by Inspiring Music Hub and Bedford Music Hub

The Glenn Miller Orchestra £33

Friday 8 March, 8pm

Experience the magic of The Glenn Miller Orchestra at The Stables! This fabulous concert showcases the sensational vocals of Catherine Sykes and Mark Porter. The Uptown Hall Gang, an outstanding Dixieland group drawn from members of the orchestra, are also featured. This musical extravaganza promises an evening of wonderful Miller music complete with a tribute to the legendary Dambusters.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Len Phillips Swing Orchestra 8 Jun

turn up the volume!

Turn Up The Volume! is The Stables’ monthly podcast. Each month we’ll bring you lively conversations with upcoming Stables artists and bands, exclusive looks behind the scenes, along with news and updates on what’s coming up.

Visit stables.org to take a listento the latest episode.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

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The Kast Off Kinks £27.50

Saturday 9 March, 8pm

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

MARCH

The Kast Off Kinks include former members of legendary band The Kinks. This great line-up features Mick Avory (founding member of The Kinks and the original drummer on all the classic hits from 1964-84), Mark Haley, Mike Steed and Dave Clarke.

Expect all the hits, including You Really Got Me, Dedicated Follower Of Fashion, Sunny Afternoon, Lola, Come Dancing and many more for a great night out!

Promoted by Mark Southgate

Lee Hurst: Sweet, Sorted, Lovely £22.50

Sunday 10 March, 8pm

Lee Hurst is back on the road with his first national stand-up comedy tour in six years. He’ll be bringing you up to date with what’s been going on in his life, as well as his own observations on things. Mostly he’ll be taking a positive spin and arguing that people should always take the mickey to make the world a more fun place to be.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Andy Parsons 4 May

Last remaining tickets 12+

The Horne Section: The Tour Warm Up £22.50

Tuesday 12 March, 8pm

They have their own Channel 4 TV show and a chart-topping podcast, and now they’re working up a brand new show – it’s the one and only Horne Section! Featuring five outstanding musicians and one non-musical stand up, there’ll be comedy, songs, enthusiastic dancing and a lot of mucking about. Don’t miss this unique show from the hugely talented band and Alex Horne, cohost of Channel 4’s BAFTA award-winning Taskmaster.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Henning Wehn 8-10 Oct

support our work The success of our music and education programme depends on the generous support of many individuals and organisations.

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B ecome a Friend of The Stables – benefits include priority booking and ticket discounts.

Name a Seat – your chosen name on a seat in the auditorium.

Leave a gift in your will to help nurture the next generation of musicians.

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

For further information please call 01908 280800 or email development@stables.org Join our group of volunteers and become a Stablemate.

Purchase Gift Vouchers which can be exchanged for tickets at The Stables.

The Chimpanzees of Happytown

featuring musicians from Ensemble 360 and narrator Elinor Moran

With narration, visuals from the book and lots of music, this is a brilliant first school/family concert for 3–7-year-olds. Before the concert, why not buy the book, download the free participation pack and use the Learn the Songs YouTube videos and other learning and participation resources at linktr.ee/mitr_learning_chimps

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Paul Rissmann’s much-loved musical retelling of Giles Andreae and Guy Parker-Rees’ bestselling picture-book returns. Meet Chutney the Chimpanzee who, with one small act of planting a seed, transforms the lives of the entire town of Drabsville and teaches its inhabitants to celebrate their differences and make life more colourful along the way!

MARCH

£7.50; free teacher’s ticket with every 10 seats booked

Wednesday 13 March, performances at 11am & 1pm (concert lasts approximately 50 minutes) For ages 3 to 7, Foundation/Key Stage 1

Free twilight teachers/educators INSET session for participating groups on Tuesday 6 February, 4.30-6pm. Contact education@stables.org for more information.

Ensemble 360 Wednesday 13 March, 8pm

£25 & £22.50 Mozart Mozart Schubert

Kegelstatt Trio, K.498 Clarinet Quintet in A major, K.581 Trout Quintet, D.667

Robert Plane, Ensemble 360’s clarinettist, takes centre stage in this celebration of Mozart’s writing for wind and strings. His innovative Kegelstatt Trio is followed by the much-loved Clarinet Quintet which showcases Mozart at his most daringly beautiful: from the luxuriant opening string chords, through folk-like charm and reflective melancholy to its hopeful final moments.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Alina Orchestra: Summer Nights 10 May

The second half of the concert features Schubert’s enduringly joyful Trout Quintet, one of the most famous pieces of the chamber repertoire.

Free tickets for Under-25s As a member of the Cavatina Trust ticket scheme, which enables young people to enjoy live chamber music, we are able to offer a limited number of free tickets to eight- to 25-year-olds for this concert. To book these tickets, contact the box office

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

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SUNDAY SESSIONS MANCINI FORUM

Enjoy some fabulous Sunday-morning jazz in the Mancini Forum (The Stables’ main foyer).

We’ll be presenting an enticing mix of established names and rising stars of the UK jazz scene – the perfect way to start the day.

Dean Stockdale Quartet: Celebrating Oscar Peterson Sunday 17 March, 11.30am £16.50 Showcasing new arrangements of Oscar’s compositions and music from famous albums such as Night Train and We Get Requests, this is a show that brings the infectious swing and virtuosity that symbolised Oscar’s groups such as those with Ray Brown, Joe Pass and Ed Thigpen.

The Remi Harris Hot Club Trio Sunday 14 April, 11.30am £16.50 Acclaimed guitarist Remi Harris is joined by double bassist Tom Moore and rhythm guitarist Chris Nesbitt to present a morning of music ranging from the acoustic jazz of the 1930s and 40s to the electric blues of the 1960s and 70s.

The Viper Club Sunday 12 May, 11.30am £16.50 When the great violinist Stuff Smith arrived in New York in 1936, he and trumpeter Jonah Jones formed a small orchestra that for four years graced the Onyx Club on 52nd Street. There they produced some of the most compelling, hard-swinging recordings to come out of New York at that time. The Viper Club quartet strive to keep the music of Stuff Smith and his orchestra well and truly alive.

Doors open at 11am. Coffee and tea will be available to purchase before each concert and the bar will be open.

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Last remaining tickets 16+

Reginald D. Hunter: The Man Who Could See Through Sh!t £26.50

Thursday 14 March, 8pm

Are You Experienced?: Tribute to Jimi Hendrix £22.50

Friday 15 March, 8pm

Are You Experienced? are now in their 28th year together and in that time have firmly established themselves as Europe’s leading Hendrix tribute. The band continue to enjoy bringing Jimi’s music to a new and eager audience as well as to those who remember him the first time around.

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ed Byrne 12 Dec

MARCH

In these supercharged socio-political times, the challenge is more and more about becoming separating what’s true and what’s real. Lucille Hunter proudly proclaimed: “It’s easy to see through sh!t, the hard part is pretending you haven’t.” Join Reginald D. Hunter for an exploration of this phenomenon in this progressive work in a pre-next-variant world.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: RUSH A Joyous Jamaican Journey 13 Apr

Never The Bride £22.50

Saturday 16 March, 8pm

Never The Bride are back with a new album featuring original tracks such as Love Finds The Young And Old, Don’t Trudge Mud and The Girls Are Back In Town, all performed in their inimitable blues rock style. The band perform with the same energy and enthusiasm as when they first got together 25 years ago, with lead vocalist Nikki Lamborn proving once again that she has earned her title as the queen of blues rock.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Deborah Bonham Band 27 Apr

Dean Stockdale Quartet: Celebrating Oscar Peterson £16.50

Sunday 17 March, 11.30am

The Dean Stockdale Quartet bring together four of the UK’s finest musicians to showcase the music of the great Canadian jazz pianist Oscar Peterson. The concert features new arrangements of Oscar’s compositions and music from famous albums such as Night Train, We Get Requests and The Canadiana Suite.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Viper Club

12 May

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

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Brighouse & Rastrick Band £26

Sunday 17 March, 4pm

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

MARCH

Regarded by many as the best and most consistent ‘public subscription band’ in the world, the legendary brass band present a highly entertaining concert of much-loved tunes. Over recent years the band has enjoyed successful collaborations with Kate Rusby, BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winner The Unthanks and actor Simon Callow.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Grimethorpe Colliery Band 23 Jun

Ligeti Quartet: WeCompose Schools Concert Monday 18 March Music in the Round’s WeCompose project is a new programme to support schools in developing young people’s creativity and composing skills. Students have been supported by visits from emerging and professional composers and extensive resources to help create their own music, which, in this culmination concert, will be performed with the internationally renowned Ligeti Quartet. For more information, contact education@stables.org

acknowledgements The Stables would like to give a special thanks to the following for their valuable support:

• Arts Council England • Cavatina Trust • Dame Cleo Laine • Dentons • FCC Communities Foundation

Stay connected!

• Garfield Weston • MK Community Foundation • PMC • The Wavendon Foundation

Home Service Wednesday 20 March, 8pm

£24

Home Service were formed in 1981 from the creative nucleus of The Albion Band line-up that produced the classic album Rise Up Like the Sun. They return to The Stables with new lead singer Bob Fox, who joined the band in 2023. Long regarded as one of the great voices of British folk song, Bob is embracing a new role alongside Graeme Taylor’s fiery lead guitar and Home Service’s stirring brass and rock-solid rhythm sections.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Show of Hands 3 May

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All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

The Dublin Legends £31.50

Thursday 21 March, 8pm

12+

Jon Courtenay £20

Friday 22 March, 8pm

Join the winner of ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent in 2020 for his biggest show yet, jam-packed with the very best in music, comedy and entertainment. As well as Jon’s trademark brand of musical comedy, with all new material, the show will feature an updated version of his hilarious one-man musical which he played for a limited run at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2022 to great acclaim.

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Lonnie Donegan: The Stories 19 May

MARCH

The Dublin Legends perform Irish folk as it was meant to be – pure and straight from the heart. When the band take to the stage, within a few minutes you will feel like you are in an Irish pub – the beating heart of Irish cities and villages, where stories about tough sailors, fiery romances and unhappy loves are told over a pint of Guinness or a good glass of whiskey.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Richard Digance 11 Apr

The Coral: The Making Of The Debut Album with James Skelly and Nick Power

£29.50

Saturday 23 March, 8pm

The Coral are celebrating the 21 anniversary of their eponymous debut album, described at the time by the NME as the funniest and most refreshing British debut in years. The record still sounds as fresh and remarkable as it did in 2002. Singer and songwriter James Skelly will be joined by keyboardist Nick Power for an evening of conversation, audience questions and acoustic songs. st

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Johnny Hates Jazz 14 Jun

The Story of Guitar Heroes £30

Sunday 24 March, 8pm

Prepare to be blown away by the most amazing guitar riffs of the last 50 years. Highly acclaimed as the UK’s ultimate guitarfest, The Story of Guitar Heroes is renowned for its world-class musicianship and use of over 30 authentic guitars. Featuring iconic hits from legends Jimmy Page, Hank Marvin, Chuck Berry, Jimi Hendrix, Brian May, Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, Van Halen, David Gilmour, Tony Iommi, Slash and many more.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The History of Rock 25 May

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

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Aly Bain & Phil Cunningham £20

Tuesday 26 March, 8pm

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

MARCH

Having toured since 1986 to packed concert halls all over the world, Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham continue to charm audiences with their stunning music and on-stage charisma. Witty and humorous banter sits alongside tunes that tug the heartstrings and joyous reels and melodies that will have your feet tapping along. The pair have recorded many highly acclaimed albums in their 30 years together, including two ‘best of’ collections.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: RANT 2 Jun

Graffiti Classics £27

Wednesday 27 March, 8pm

Who are Graffiti Classics? Sixteen strings, eight dancing feet and four voices with one aim: to make classical music wickedly funny and fantastically exhilarating for everyone, young and old. The ensemble burst the boundaries of the traditional string quartet with their hilarious all-singing, all-dancing musical comedy show. It’s a classical concert, a gypsy-folk romp, an opera, a stand-up comedy set and a brilliant dance show all rolled into one!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Red Priest 23 Apr

Last remaining tickets

The Counterfeit Stones: Not Fake Away Thursday 28 March, 8pm

£32, standing £24.50

Why pay a fortune to see ants in a stadium when, for a fraction of the price, you can get up close and smell the faking brilliance of The Counterfeit Stones? Their latest fast shuffle, Not Fake Away, promises yet another night of pure, unadulterated CopyRock. Packed with big hits, retro fashion and vintage guitars, it’s Satis-fiction guaranteed.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Kast off Kinks 9 Mar

Last remaining tickets

A Night To Remember Motown Show Friday 29 March, 8pm

£35

A Night To Remember Motown Show takes you back in time to 1960s Detroit. Be prepared for a high-energy show packed with the greatest Motown hits. Starring The Voice UK finalist Bizzi Dixon and backed by the soulful vocal dynamics of The Motown Divas, this musical celebration is sure to have you singing along and dancing in the aisles and the streets.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Stars from The Commitments 22 Sep

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All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Lionel: A Tribute to Lionel Richie £24.50

Saturday 30 March, 8pm

Puss In Boots: The Last Wish £6 & £4

Wednesday 3 April, 11.30am

PG

Everyone’s favorite swashbuckling feline returns for a new adventure in the Shrek universe as Puss In Boots goes on a grand quest to find a magical Wishing Star.

(104 minutes)

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Real Thing 15 Nov

MAR / APR

Following his appearances with Lionel Richie himself on ITV’s Sunday Night At The Palladium and the BBC’s Graham Norton Show, Malcolm Pitt delivers a powerhouse, breathtaking performance in this high-octane show celebrating the music of Lionel Richie and the Commodores. This award-winning fivestar production also features a stellar line-up of world-class musicians including musical director Jonny Miller from Talon.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: James Campbell 4 May

Wonka £6 & £4

Wednesday 3 April, 2.30pm

PG

Willy Wonka – chock-full of ideas and determined to change the world one delectable bite at a time – is proof that the best things in life begin with a dream, and if you’re lucky enough to meet Willy Wonka, anything is possible.

(116 minutes) LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Barbie (12) 28 May

The Last of the Blonde Bombshells Wednesday 3 April, 7.30pm

12

£10 & £8 (£1 off for under-18s)

The last time they played the Blonde Bombshells brought down the house – while bombs rained down over London.

More than 50 years later, two of the group’s original members try to strike up the band again. A life-affirming comedy starring Judi Dench and also featuring Dame Cleo Laine. (84 minutes) LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Great Escaper (12A) 28 May

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

13

Pop Princesses Thursday 4 April, 2pm

APRIL JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

£22

A magical show where beautiful princesses become pop stars!

Don’t miss this musical spectacular starring four fabulous fairytale princesses who just love to sing. It’s the perfect mix, featuring a soundtrack of top pop hits from artists such as Little Mix, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor and internet sensation JoJo Siwa, plus songs from all your favourite films and musicals.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Barbie (12) 28 May

Last remaining tickets 14+

Clinton Baptiste: Roller Ghoster!

Thursday 4 April, 8pm

£31

Solo again, Britain’s most celebrated clairvoyant medium psychic returns with his new hilarious one-man stand-up show. As well as venturing into the audience to offer his unique spirit readings, Clinton comes armed with more tales from his extraordinary childhood – the family that shaped him, the narrow-minded who doubted him and the lovers that left him.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Count Arthur Strong 8 May

John Smith Friday 5 April, 8pm

£22.50

Steeped in the lineage of British folk and American guitar music and taking his cue from Richard Thompson, John Martyn and Ry Cooder, John Smith has evolved and pioneered a transatlantic blend of guitar techniques. His deeply romantic and vivid songwriting, combined with his innovative guitar work, have won him a loyal following.

John has released six studio albums and is hard at work on album number seven, with a set of brand new songs to play live.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Mary Gauthier 18 Apr

FM: 40th Anniversary Tour + support from Brave Rival

Saturday 6 April, 8pm

£29.50

Formed in the 1980s by the Overland brothers, FM have become one of the UK’s seminal rock bands. Celebrating their illustrious 40-year career, tonight they perform songs from their 13 albums including Indiscreet (their 1986 debut release), Tough It Out, Metropolis, Synchronized and many more, plus songs from their forthcoming 14th studio album.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Wishbone Ash 14 Oct

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All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Pasadena Roof Orchestra £27.50 & £25

Sunday 7 April, 8pm

16+

Iain Stirling: Relevant + support from Steve Bugeja

£25

Wednesday 10 April, 8pm

The BAFTA-winning comedian and ‘extremely funny’ (Daily Telegraph) Iain Stirling is back! As the iconic voice of Love Island and star and writer of ITV sitcom Buffering, 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!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Steve Bugeja

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Glenn Miller Orchestra 8 Mar

APRIL

It’s hard to believe, but this year the Pasadena Roof Orchestra are celebrating 55 years of performing live music from the 1920s and 1930s. Their recipe for longevity is simple – staying true to the sounds that were produced nightly by the resident bands of some of New York’s most famous jazz clubs. Their show involves lovingly recreated orchestrations of melodies from the great American Songbook composers such as Irving Berlin and George Gershwin.

18 May

Teach Rex Live: The Velociraptor Show Thursday 11 April, performances at 10am, 12.30pm & 3.30pm

Adults £13.50 under-16s £11

Teach Rex use lifelike dinosaurs to perform their one-hour show, teaching children about the anatomy and life of one of the most mesmerising creatures to have ever roamed our planet. The show is packed with effects and music and gives children and their families the chance to get up close and personal with these fantastic, realistic beasts.

Promoted by TeachRex

Richard Digance Thursday 11 April, 8pm

£20

2024 sees Richard Digance still going strong and performing at selected venues as well as spending more time in his studio composing soundtrack music. Richard is a BAFTA-nominated entertainer and a recipient of The Gold Award from The British Academy of Composers and Songwriters. He has also won a Sony Award and is one of only three British folk singers mentioned in The Virgin Anthology of Songwriters.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Jon Courtenay 22 Mar

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

15

Royal South £18.50

Friday 12 April, 8pm

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

APRIL/ FEB JAN

Individual artists in their own right, SaraBeth and Glen Mitchell have come together to form the harmony powerhouse Royal South. Based in Nashville, Tennessee, the Texas and London natives have attracted the attention of renowned producer Paul Worley.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Fugitives 2 Jul

Rush: A Joyous Jamaican Journey £31

Saturday 13 April, 8pm

Join us for this incredible narrated musical as John Simmit tells the story of the Windrush generation and reggae, and how this music took the world by storm. The show features classic ska, rock steady, calypso, gospel, lovers rock, dancehall and reggae tracks, all played live by the JA Reggae Band. Get ready to enjoy the music of Desmond Dekker, Jimmy Cliff, Bob Marley, Millie Small and many more LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Are You Experienced? 15 Mar

The Remi Harris Hot Club Trio £16.50

Sunday 14 April, 11.30am

Acclaimed guitarist Remi Harris is joined by double bassist Tom Moore and rhythm guitarist Chris Nesbitt to present a morning of music ranging from the acoustic jazz of the 1930s and 40s to the electric blues of the 1960s and 70s.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Viper Club

gift ideas Footpath of Fame – your chosen name or text engraved onto a brick and placed amongst many celebrities in our exclusive Footpath.

Stables Gold – a presentation pack of The Stables’s very own 50th anniversary beer, specially made us by Concrete Cow Brewery.

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Gift Vouchers – treat someone to a great night of entertainment.

Your support helps us to continue providing music and music-making opportunities for children and adults alike.

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

12 May

For more information contact box office on 01908 280800 or email development@stables.org

The George Harrison Project £26

Sunday 14 April, 8pm

keep up to date

Stay connected! like us on facebook /StablesMK

All details are correct at time of going to print.

For latest programme and other updates from The Stables, please visit www.stables.org and keep an eye on our social media channels.

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Roy Orbison & The Traveling Wilburys Experience 21 Jun

APRIL

Enjoy the UK’s leading live music tribute to George Harrison performing his best-loved hits from The Beatles, his solo career and The Traveling Wilburys. After the Liverpudlian four-piece called time on Beatlemania, George enjoyed a successful solo career, releasing 12 studio albums, including Living In The Material World and Cloud Nine.

follow us on twitter @stablesMK

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Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club: The Look of Love: The Music of Burt Bacharach by a handpicked selection of world-class instrumentalists and special guest vocalists.

Wednesday 17 April, 8pm

£38.50 & £36.50

Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club present a celebration of Burt Bacharach’s unforgettable music, including iconic songs such as The Look Of Love, Do You Know The Way To San Jose and Walk On By. Featuring brand new jazz-inspired arrangements created

by Ronnie Scott’s Artistic Director James Pearson.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: What Now My Love?: A Tribute To Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass 8 Sep

Mary Gauthier songcraft reflecting both love and loss.

+ support from Jaimee Harris Thursday 18 April, 8pm

£20

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Mary Gauthier has once again used her art to traverse the uncharted waters of the past few years.

“I’m the kind of songwriter who writes what I see in the world right now,” she says. Her powerful album Dark Enough To See The Stars collects 10 sparkling jewels of songcraft reflecting both love and loss.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: John Smith 5 Apr

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

17

16+

Paul Foot: Dissolve £18.50

Friday 19 April, 8pm

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

APRIL

Life is a stress: full of rushed breakfasts, angry people, internal conflict and Jacob Rees-Mogg. But what happens when everything you thought was important – your problems, grievances against others, your very identity – simply disappears? Multi-award-winning and trailblazing comedian Paul Foot is back on tour with Dissolve, his most personal, surprising and groundbreaking show to date.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Rich Hall 12 Jun

The Manfreds: Hits & More In ‘24 Saturday 20 April, 8pm

£31

Following the huge success of their 60th anniversary tour in 2023, The Manfreds are once again making their way to The Stables. The band perform many of their best-loved hits, including Do Wah Diddy Diddy, one of the most popular and instantly recognisable songs of the 1960s, along with a mix of jazz and blues covers and tracks from their individual solo albums.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: New Amen Corner 4 Jul

Woburn Sands Band Sunday 21 April, 4pm

£16.50, under-18s £6

The Woburn Sands Band present their Celebratory Concert for Springtime. The programme runs the gamut from big band and classical sounds to jazz, pop and arrangements of some of your best-loved melodies – all in one show. Come along for some true family entertainment from your favourite local brass band, with soloists from the band featured in this, the 70th concert in the Drakeloe Series.

Promoted by Woburn Sands Band

14+

John Cooper Clarke + special guest

Monday 22 April, 8pm

£32 & £29.50

Literary phenomenon John Cooper Clarke is a British cult hero.

Known as the ‘Godfather of Punk Poetry’ and the original people’s poet, John’s cultural influence spans literature, music and fashion.

This year he celebrates his 75th birthday with a UK tour – don’t miss this chance to see one of the world’s most important and entertaining spoken word artists at his bold and brilliant best.

18

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Red Priest: Baroque Extravaganza £22.50

Tuesday 23 April, 8pm

Concerto in G minor La Notte Gypsy Sonata in A minor

Telemann: Bach:

Toccata and Fugue in D minor

Handel: The Harmonious Blacksmith Variations and works by Purcell, Cima, Ortiz and Cazzatti.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Graffiti Classics 27 Mar

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Vivaldi:

APRIL

The iconic baroque quartet Red Priest perform a thrilling programme of 17th and 18th century masterworks in their inimitable, high-energy style, featuring highlights from a 27-year international career at the cutting edge of early music performance. The programme includes:

Free tickets for Under-25s As a member of the Cavatina Trust ticket scheme, which enables young people to enjoy live chamber music, we are able to offer a limited number of free tickets to eight- to 25-year-olds for this concert. To book these tickets, contact the box office

Feast of Fiddles: 30th Anniversary Tour Wednesday 24 April, 8pm

£26

Feast of Fiddles are a band of friends who perform with passion, joy and a liberal dose of fun. Marion Fleetwood joins fiddlers Peter Knight, Brian McNeill, Ian Cutler, Tom Leary and Garry Blakeley who bring a wide range of fiddle-playing styles to the rock back-line of guitars, keyboards, sax and accordion – all held together by legendary drummer Dave Mattacks.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Blazin’ Fiddles 6 Mar

UK Blues Awards Thursday 25 April, 7.30pm

£22.50

The UK Blues Federation are delighted to bring The UK Blues Awards to The Stables. Every year this prestigious event gets bigger and bigger and it’s now a staple in the blues community’s diary. Once again Paul Jones will be hosting the evening and introducing some fabulous live music from some of the award nominees as well as very special guests making the presentations of those coveted awards.

Promoted by UK Blues Federation

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

19

Nights On Broadway: Tribute to the Bee Gees Friday 26 April, 8pm

£27

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

APRIL

Nights On Broadway celebrates the timeless music of the Bee Gees, faithfully recreated on stage as a fantastic live concert.

Featuring many of the group’s incredible hit songs spanning four decades, this high-energy show gives the audience the experience of what it was like to be at a real Bee Gees concert.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: ABBA Forever 27 Sep

Deborah Bonham Band Saturday 27 April, 8pm

£18.50

Deborah Bonham has established herself as one of the finest singers that the UK has ever produced. Her most recent album Bonham-Bullick is an inspiring blend of blues, rock and soul interpretations of some classic and contemporary compositions spanning seven decades. November 2023 saw the release of Heavenly Cream, an acoustic tribute to Cream, with Deborah taking the lead on two tracks.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Verity Bromham Band 16 Jun

Showaddywaddy Sunday 28 April, 8pm

£33.50

Showaddywaddy have long been established as Europe’s most successful exponents of retro-inspired rock’n’roll. The record speaks for itself: 23 top 40 hit singles, including Under The Moon Of Love, When, You Got What It Takes and Three Steps To Heaven. After almost 50 years in the business, the band continue to prove that rock’n’roll is alive and kicking.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Merrill Osmond 26 Sep

16+

Punt & Dennis: We Are Not a Robot Monday 29 April, 8pm

£33.50

Older, but not really much wiser, Hugh Dennis and Steve Punt are back on tour for the first time in 10 years. 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.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Horne Section 12 Mar

20

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

16+

Miles Jupp: On I Bang £27.50

Tuesday 30 April, 8pm

One Life Wednesday 1 May, 7.30pm £10 & £8 (£1 off for under-18s)

PG

British stockbroker Nicholas Winton visits Czechoslovakia in the 1930s and forms plans to assist in the rescue of Jewish children before the onset of World War II, in an operation that came to be known as the Kindertransport. Starring Helena Bonham Carter, Johnny Flynn, Anthony Hopkins and Lena Olin.

(109 minutes)

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Griff Rhys Jones 11-12 May

APR / MAY

Obviously, one doesn’t wish to make a big deal of having a brain tumour removed, but this recent experience has left Miles Jupp with a story to tell and a few things that he’d like to share with the room. So that’s exactly what he’s doing in his new show On I Bang – a tale about surprise, fear, luck, love and qualified medical practitioners.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Last of the Blond Bombshells (12) 3 Apr

16+

Nurse Georgie Carroll: Sister Flo 2.0 £24

Thursday 2 May, 8pm

Georgie Carroll is best known as the UK-born, Australia-based nurse turned comedian. She grafted 20 years on the healthcare frontline before swapping the pen torch for the spotlight. She has now retired from nursing but has taken with her an unparalleled comedy voice and a staunch online medical following that have made her viral (in the best way) many times over. You’ll laugh, you’ll gasp, you’ll cry, it might even hurt, but it will make you better!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Rosie Holt 24 May

Last remaining tickets

Show of Hands: Full Circle Tour Friday 3 May, 8pm

£38.50, standing £27.50

With a rich history spanning three decades, Steve Knightley and Phil Beer are renowned for their unique ‘hands-on’ cottage industry approach to touring, and their upcoming tour promises to be a celebration of their enduring legacy. Following the tour, the duo will be taking a well-deserved break from the limelight, so don’t miss this chance to see these two legends of the folk scene live on stage!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Home Service 20 Mar

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

21

6+

James Campbell: Don’t Panic! We CAN Save The Planet Saturday 4 May, 2pm

James Campbell’s new comedy show for children aged 6-11 is perfect for anyone who wants to swap being an Eco Worrier for being an Eco Warrior. Based on his latest book, Don’t Panic!

We CAN Save The Planet, this is a unique eco comedy standup show in which James inspires children to do something about the climate crisis, pollution and ducks with swords.

MAY JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Adults £13.50, under-16s £11

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Zog & The Flying Doctors 25-27 Jun

16+

Andy Parsons: Bafflingly Optimistic Saturday 4 May, 8pm

£19.50

Following a sold-out and critically acclaimed run at the Edinburgh Festival, Andy brings his new full-length tour Bafflingly Optimistic to The Stables. As seen on Netflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Live at The Apollo and Mock The Week.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Lee Hurst 10 Mar

Focus Sunday 5 May, 8pm

£26.50

With their unique brand of progressive rock, Focus manifested themselves at the start of the 1970s as the most successful and appreciated of all the Dutch pop-rock exports. Fronted by founding member Thijs Van Leer, and best known for their hits Hocus Pocus, House Of The King and Sylvia, as well as critically acclaimed albums Moving Waves, Focus 3 and Hamburger Concerto, the iconic Dutch music masters have long enjoyed worldwide success.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Solstice 9 Sep

Katherine Priddy Tuesday 7 May, 8pm

£18.50

Since emerging with her debut EP Wolf, singer-songwriter Katherine Priddy has quickly become one of the most exciting names on the UK music scene. With haunting vocals and a distinctive finger-picking guitar style, Katherine’s live performances are engaging, moving and amusing by turn, delivering original songs with emotional maturity, depth and particularly noteworthy lyrics.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: John Smith 5 Apr

22

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Count Arthur Strong: And It’s Good Night From Him £26.50

Wednesday 8 May, 8pm

The Simon & Garfunkel Story £29.50

Thursday 9 May, 8pm

The Simon & Garfunkel Story is back! Using huge projection images and original film footage, this international hit show also features a full live band performing all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more.

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Paul Foot 19 Apr

MAY

Having consulted with top Harley Street specialists, the St Anne’s Jombulance Brigade and Professor Twitty, that did Covid, (the bald one), Count Arthur Strong has decided to gradually phase in his farewell tour over a yet-to-be-specified number of parts, because of the likelihood of people doing ‘cold turkey’ in theatres over him.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Kast Off Kinks 9 Mar

Alina Orchestra: Summer Nights £27.50 & £22.50, under-16s £6

Friday 10 May, 7.30pm Mozart

Serenade no.6 in D major (Serenata Notturna), K.239

Berlioz

Les nuits été

Mendelssohn

Nocturne and Scherzo from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, op.61

Delius

Summer Night on the River

Mozart

Symphony no.35 in D major, K.385

Hilary Davan Wetton, conductor Rebecca Bottone, soprano Join us for a very special summer concert that celebrates the 80th birthday of Alina Orchestra’s much-loved musical director Hilary Davan Wetton. The programme has been specially chosen by Hilary and features some of his favourite works – ranging from a Mozart Symphony to beautiful works by Delius, Berlioz and Mendelssohn.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ensemble 360 13 Mar

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

23

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

MAY

16+

Griff Rhys Jones: The Cat’s Pyjamas £26

Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 May, 8pm

Join comedian Griff Rhys Jones as he shares more funny observations and comic stories. No theme. The show always varies as Griff rambles on the developing national permacrisis.

Age. Family. Fraud. Nostalgia. The TikTok generation. Crocodile smuggling and noodling in Australia. Travel, dogs, hotels, drink and midnight trains. He takes questions from the audience and lets rip as his associations wander.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Miles Jupp 30 Apr

The Viper Club £16.50

Sunday 12 May, 11.30am

When the great violinist Stuff Smith arrived in New York in 1936, he formed a small orchestra that for four years graced the famous Onyx Club. They produced some of the most hard-swinging recordings to come out of the city at that time. The four members of The Viper Club strive to keep the music of Stuff Smith and his orchestra well and truly alive.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Remi Harris Hot Club Trio

14 Apr

Talisk £21

Tuesday 14 May, 8pm

Mohsen Amini (BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards’ Musician of the Year 2018), Graeme Armstrong and Benedict Morris (BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year 2019) fuse concertina, guitar and fiddle to produce a truly innovative, multilayered signature sound that has captivated audiences around the globe.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Feast of Fiddles 24 Apr

Mugenkyo: In Time Wednesday 15 May, 8pm

£32 & £29, under-18s £26

As Europe’s longest-established taiko group, Mugenkyo are widely recognised as the groundbreaking pioneers of this exciting Japanese drumming art-form, thrilling audiences across the world. Now they return with their first major UK tour in almost five years. The concert promises a full theatrical experience, complete with dynamic choreography and heart-pounding rhythms.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Afro Celt Sound System 15 Oct

24

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Peter White £21

Thursday 16 May, 8pm

Swinging at The Cotton Club £26

Friday 17 May, 8pm

Swinging at The Cotton Club is the action-packed show celebrating the music and dance of New York’s most celebrated nightclub of the 1920s and 30s. Its exhilarating dance and music are recreated by the fabulous Lindy Hop Dance Company, alongside The Harry Strutters Hot Rhythm Orchestra, featuring American vocalist Megs Etherington.

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Shakatak 13 Sep

MAY

Peter White grew up in the English countryside, dreaming that one day he would travel the world playing music. That dream came true when he joined singer-songwriter-folkie Al Stewart’s band in 1975 playing piano and guitar. Since then, he has toured the world playing his own unique style of music, but never forgetting to return to England to charm audiences and visit his old stomping grounds!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Pasadena Roof Orchestra 7 Apr

Ultimate Bowie £25

Saturday 18 May, 8pm

In this authentic celebration of David Bowie and his music, Ed Blaney transports you across David’s golden years from Space Boy to Superstar. A performer who easily commands the eyes of the audience every moment he’s on stage, Ed blends the past and present, revealing the many sides of this icon’s fascinating personality.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Best of Queen 4 Oct

Peter & Anthony Donegan: Lonnie Donegan, The Stories £16.50

Sunday 19 May, 8pm

Award-winning songwriter and star of The Voice UK Peter Donegan and his older brother Anthony present a fantastic evening of songs by and stories about their legendary father – The King of Skiffle – Lonnie Donegan. This is a unique, ‘behind-the-scenes’ glimpse into life growing up with a musical legend as a father. Expect huge laughs, plenty of singing and lots of foot-stomping fun.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Dublin Legends 21 Mar

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

25

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

MAY

become a friend

Join online at stables.org/support_us/friends or call 01908 280800 Enjoy some great benefits including priority booking, discounted for further information

tickets and the What’s On Brochure four times a year!

Becoming a Friend also plays a vital role in the funding of The Stables’ live music, entertainment and education activities.

The Gigspanner Big Band & Raynor Winn: Saltlines Thursday 23 May, 8pm

£33.50

Saltlines is a prose and music collaboration between bestselling author Raynor Winn and folk-roots supergroup The Gigspanner Big Band. Raynor’s vibrant and thought-provoking compositions are artfully wrapped around songs and tunes that were originally gathered from the route of the South West Coast Path by the great song collectors Cecil Sharp and Sabine Baring-Gould.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Home Service 20 Mar

16+

Rosie Holt: That’s Politainment Friday 24 May, 8pm

£22.50

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.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Henning Wehn 8-10 Oct

The History Of Rock Saturday 25 May, 8pm

£31

The History Of Rock is a celebration of rock music through the decades. An exceptional live band perform the music of artists such as Led Zeppelin, Cream, AC/DC and Queen. The show also features original visual footage of the bands and artists, as well as incredible concert staging and lighting.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Story of Guitar Heroes 24 Mar

26

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Returns Only

The Shires: Two Of Us Sunday 26 May, 8pm

£44.50

Barbie Tuesday 28 May, 2.30pm

12

£6 & £4

Eccentric and individualistic, Barbie is exiled from Barbieland because of her imperfections. When her home world is in peril, Barbie returns with the knowledge that what makes her different also makes her stronger. Starring Michael Cera, America Ferrera, Ryan Gosling and Margot Robbie.

(114 minutes)

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Mary Gauthier 18 Apr

MAY

The Shires are one of the UK’s most popular and bestselling country acts. Having made huge waves both on home soil and across the pond, they became the first UK artists to win Best International Act at the prestigious Country Music Awards. Join Ben and Chrissie for an acoustic evening of their biggest hits and favourite tracks.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Wonka (PG) 3 Apr

The Great Escaper Tuesday 28 May, 7.30pm

12A

£10 & £8 (£1 off for under-18s)

In the summer of 2014, a World War II veteran sneaks out of his care home to attend the 70th anniversary commemoration of the D-Day landings in Normandy. Starring Michael Caine, Glenda Jackson and John Standing.

(97 minutes) LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Last of the Blonde Bombshells (12) 3 Apr

FitkinWall: Harpland Wednesday 29 May, 8pm

£21

Ruth Wall’s explorations of Gaelic song, fiddle and pipe tunes and history of the Scottish Highlands, where she grew up, are at the heart of FitkinWall’s new show Harpland. Composer Graham Fitkin has created enigmatic and mesmerising new versions of these tunes for Ruth’s three harps – the sitar-like Renaissance bray harp, the beautiful medieval Gaelic wire harp (clàrsach) and the Scottish lever harp.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: RANT 2 Jun

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

27

The Americana Revue £25

Thursday 30 May, 8pm

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

MAY / JUN

The Americana Revue celebrates many of the world’s best loved Americana and country rock artists and some of the most inspiring songs of a generation. Join frontman Ben Mills (X Factor finalist) and his nine-piece band as they take you on a journey of over two hours of timeless, multi-million-selling number-one hits! Featuring classic songs by Bruce Springsteen, Eagles, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, James Taylor, Willie Nelson and many, many others.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Talon 6 & 7 Nov

G2 Genesis Friday 31 May & Saturday 1 June, 8pm £31.50 book for both shows in the same transaction and save on your tickets G2 are currently celebrating their 24th year of playing classic 1970’s Genesis. The Friday performance will feature a recreation of the band’s Duke tour performance at The Lyceum in May 1980, while Saturday’s show will be The Best Of The Rest – G2’s choice of some 1970s classics, with a few surprises thrown in along the way.

Promoted by G2 Genesis

Alina Orchestra Family Concert £13.50, under-18s £7

Sunday 2 June, 3pm Prokofiev

Peter and the Wolf, op.67

David Lyon

Game: Football Variations for Audience and Orchestra

Conductor

Hilary Davan Wetton

Narrator

Susie Riddell

Alina Orchestra’s first-ever family concert features Peter and the Wolf, Prokofiev’s ever-popular symphonic folk tale for children. The piece introduces individual instruments in the orchestra, as a narrator tells the story of Peter’s encounter with a wolf. With quick thinking and the help of his friends – a bird, a duck and a cat – he manages to capture the wolf which is then taken to the zoo.

Peter and the Wolf is followed by a piece of music unlike any other. David Lyon’s Game takes the audience into the football arena where they become supporters of either ‘Rovers’ or ‘United’. Be part of a game, shout chants and celebrate goals.

Promoted by Alina Orchestra

28

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

RANT £20

Sunday 2 June, 8pm

Martin Taylor £21

Tuesday 4 June, 8pm

Multi-award-winning guitarist and composer Martin Taylor has established a unique career as an internationally acclaimed musician, and his inimitable style has seen him recognised as the world’s foremost exponent of solo jazz guitar playing. Completely self-taught, he has invented and developed a way of playing the guitar that is admired, and often imitated, by guitarists all over the world.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Remi Harris Hot Club Trio

16+

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Blazin’ Fiddles 6 Mar

JUNE

With three acclaimed albums under their belt, RANT remain at the forefront of the Scottish fiddle scene. The quartet, featuring four of the country’s finest players, use just their fiddles to weave a tapestry of melodies, textures, layers and sounds. Their new album Spin is an album of reinterpretation – the band’s own take on influential tracks from their formative years.

14 Apr

Clive Anderson’s My Seven Wonders £22.50

Thursday 6 June, 8pm

Clive Anderson takes to the road as the live version of his hit podcast goes on tour for the first time. Join the host of Whose Line Is It Anyway, Talks Back and Loose Ends as he invites different guests to choose their own personal wonders of the world.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Griff Rhys Jones 11 & 12 May

Quo Connection

+ support from Fi Channon Friday 7 June, 8pm

£21

All former members of John Coghlan’s Quo – Mick Hughes, Rick Chase, Pete Mace and Russ Chadd – have reformed under the name Quo Connection to carry on the legacy of Status Quo and John Coghlan. Performing many of Quo’s hits plus some incredible album tracks, Quo Connection can’t wait to bring their high-octane show to The Stables!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Wishbone Ash 14 Oct

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

29

Len Phillips Swing Orchestra: Frank & Ella Saturday 8 June, 8pm

JUNE JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

£30

Featuring Stephen Triffitt and Nicola Emmanuelle, stars of the West End’s Rat Pack: Live From Las Vegas, the Len Phillips Swing Orchestra perform classic Sinatra and Fitzgerald hits including New York New York, Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye, The Lady Is A Tramp, Manhattan and Fly Me To The Moon.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Swinging at The Cotton Club 17 May

14+

Rich Hall: Shot from Cannons Wednesday 12 June, 8pm

£19.50

Fresh on the heels of his critically acclaimed memoirs, Nailing It, Montana’s transatlantic messenger returns with new rants, knife-edge observations, thrilling musical interludes and an everformidable knack for laughs on the fly. You’ll pay for the whole seat, but you’ll only need the edge of it.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Reginald D. Hunter 14 Mar

13+

Six Chick Flicks Thursday 13 June, 8pm

£24.50

Two actors. Six beloved films. One hilarious parody! Fresh from a sold-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, 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.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Barbie (12) 28 May

Johnny Hates Jazz: Turn Back The Clock Friday 14 June, 8pm

£27.50

Featuring Clark Datchler (songwriting, vocals, keyboards) and Mike Nocito (production, engineering, guitars), Johnny Hates Jazz achieved prominence in the late 1980s with a string of hits, notably Shattered Dreams. This year the band will be embarking on their first ever headline tour of the UK and overseas. With a brand new show, surrounded by world-class musicians, they’re ready to captivate audiences across the globe once again.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Peter Cox 21 Sep

30

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

14+

Carl Hutchinson: Today Years Old £20

Saturday 15 June, 7.30pm

Verity Bromham Band £20

Sunday 16 June, 8pm

With more than a century of recording and touring years between them, John Verity and Del Bromham have come together to bring something a little different to the table. The Verity Bromham Band features these two road warriors performing a broad selection of their favourite rock classics, carefully chosen to showcase their individual vocal and guitar-playing skills to the full.

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Iain Stirling 10 Apr

JUNE

Comedian Carl Hutchinson is back for a third tour. His storytelling skills and ability to hold an audience are second to none. Rich in observations and exaggerated physical comedy, a night out with this Geordie is guaranteed to have you belly laughing from start to finish.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Deborah Bonham Band 27 Apr

Kossoff The Band Plays On presents

Terry Slesser’s Back Street Crawler £24.50

Wednesday 19 June, 8pm

Don’t miss this special evening to celebrate the life and music of Paul Kossoff. It’s 48 years since the guitar prodigy died in 1976, aged just 25 – but his music lives on. Renowned vocalist Terry Slesser has put together a fine ensemble of high-calibre musicians to pay tribute to Paul and their show features tracks from the very best of Free and Back Street Crawler’s back catalogue.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Wishbone Ash 14 Oct

The Slambovian Circus of Dreams Thursday 20 June, 8pm

£21

Explore the depths of Americana ‘one trippy tune at a time’ with New York’s Slambovian Circus of Dreams. Voted Chronogram Magazine’s Best Band of 2022 for their rootsy rockin’ psychedelia, the Slambovians’ exciting live shows are legendary.

Woodstock-tinged psychedelia, a hint of southern rock and solid songwriting elevates this version of Americana to new heights.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Love 31 Jul

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

31

Roy Orbison & the Traveling Wilburys Experience Friday 21 June, 8pm

JUNE JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

£26

Come and enjoy a fantastic evening of entertainment jam-packed with non-stop hits, big-screen action, expert narrative and a whole lot of fun. You’ll be taken on a journey through several decades of pop as the band celebrate the music of Jeff Lynne’s ELO, Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and The Beatles’ George Harrison.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The George Harrison Project 14 Apr

14+

La Voix Saturday 22 June, 8pm

£27.50

Britain’s funniest redhead is swinging into town with her most ambitious show yet! This brand new show promises an evening like no other, with huge vocals, a live band and side-splitting comedy. La Voix brings fans and first-timers a unique evening of entertainment in the company of a true legend, guaranteed to bring audiences to their feet with music and laughter.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS:

Grimethorpe Colliery Band Sunday 23 June, 7pm

£27.50

The world-famous Grimethorpe Colliery Band perform a programme of classic brass band repertoire and music from the film Brassed Off, alongside newer works and some entertaining solos. The band have been national and British Open Champions many times.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Brighouse & Rastrick Band 17 Mar

Curtis Stigers Thursday 27 June, 8pm

£38.50

Curtis Stigers returns to The Stables with a new show inspired by his weekly online lockdown show, Songs From My Kitchen. You can expect songs from his entire catalogue – pop, jazz, soul, blues and even a little country/folk – delivered in an acoustic, up-closeand-personal style. He’ll bring his guitar, his sax and a couple of bandmates, along with 30+ years of entertaining stories (mostly true) about his long, winding career in show business.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Best of Vonda Shepard 19 Oct

32

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Freckle Productions present

Zog & the Flying Doctors

The crew are back for another roar-some adventure! Based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling sequel to Zog and with music and lyrics by Joe Stilgoe, Freckle Productions (Zog, Stick Man, Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales) present a truly modern take on the classic fairytale.

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

3+

JUNE

Adults £16.50 under-16s £14.50 schools £11

Tuesday 25 June, 4.30pm Wednesday 26 June, 1.30pm & 4.30pm Thursday 27 June, 10.30am & 1.30pm

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: James Campbell: Don’t Panic! We CAN Save The Planet! 4 May

Aynsley Lister Friday 28 June, 8pm

£21.50

After the resounding success of last year’s sold-out show, Aynsley Lister is set to grace The Stables stage once again, promising another unforgettable night of soul-stirring blues and rock. Accompanied by his sensational band, Aynsley returns to captivate the audience with the best music from his remarkable 28-year recording career.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: UK Blues Awards 25 Apr

Logicaltramp Saturday 29 June, 8pm

£25

Logicaltramp bring their unique approach to the music of Supertramp – playing a full-on, two-hour rock show that includes all of Supertramp’s greatest hits, all of their stand-out epic album tracks and even a few rarities for the die-hard fans!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Talon 6 & 7 Nov

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

33

STAGE 2

stage 2 Stage 2 is the ideal place to catch a star of tomorrow on their way up or enjoy more established artists experimenting with new material. With a capacity of just 80 for most gigs, there’s always an intimate and relaxed feel to proceedings.

The Stables’ second performance space: intimate, relaxed and informal

Stage 2 hosts around 100 concerts each year of all shapes and sizes – folk, rock, blues and much more besides – along with a good smattering of comedy and spoken word.

So come and hear the latest new music and comedy, relax and enjoy a drink with friends!

Look out for these Stage 2 artists making their headline debuts this season

34

Hannah Rarity

Fargo Railroad Company

Rob Wheeler

Sat 6 Apr

Tue 30 Apr

Fri 10 May

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Alexandr Misko £16.50

Wednesday 6 March, 8.45pm

30 Mar

STAGE 2

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Billy Watman

MARCH

Alex Misko, a modern fingerstyle guitar prodigy, mesmerises audiences worldwide and represents a remarkable new generation in his craft. His music bridges the old and new, and with five albums, global tours and many accolades to his name, he’s a true guitar maestro. In 2018, he was honoured with the prestigious title of Guitarist of the Year by the renowned magazine MusicRadar.

Jinder

+ support from Peter James Millson £11

Saturday 9 March, 8.45pm

Jinder is a songwriter, storyteller and international touring musician based in the West Country. Best known for the modern folk classic Keep Me In Your Heart, an evergreen song which topped the download charts in eight countries after being featured in the successful British movie Fishermen’s Friends in 2019, Jinder has released 13 critically acclaimed albums.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Blair Dunlop

11 May

Lucy Stevens: Gertrude Lawrence: A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening £16.50

Sunday 10 March, 2.30pm

The 1930s star of musical comedy tells her story in this theatrical cabaret performed by Lucy Stevens with pianist Elizabeth Marcus. Lucy’s performance embodies the spirit of Gertie, a feisty, strong woman from Clapham who transcended the class ceiling, forging her stage and screen career into her 50s.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Swinging at The Cotton Club 17 May

Hannah James and Toby Kuhn £15.50

Wednesday 13 March, 8.45pm

Known for her work with Lady Maisery, Maddy Prior and Sam Sweeney, vocalist Hannah James is a leading figure on the UK folk scene. Always on the lookout for new ways to play his instrument, Toby Kuhn’s unorthodox approach has won admiration and acclaim, bringing the full potential of the cello with him on his journey across style and invention. Together, their music is soulful, original and conversational.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Granny’s Attic

8 May

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

35

The Blackheart Orchestra £18.50

Thursday 14 March, 8.45pm

STAGE 2

MARCH

The Blackheart Orchestra are multi-instrumentalists Chrissy Mostyn and Rick Pilkington. They comprise a two-person ‘orchestra’ playing up to 13 instruments in their unique live show.

From their on-stage ‘musical space station’ they create highly emotional contemporary rock music featuring a multitude of sounds and atmospheres.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Solstice 7 Sep

16+

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club £12.50 in advance, £14.50 on the door

Wednesday 20 March, 8.45pm

Compere Andrew Bird introduces Mark Maier and Joey Page (line-up is subject to change).

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Esther Manito

18 Apr

The Kendall Connection £16.50

Thursday 21 March, 8.45pm

Nick Kendall has spent more than a decade as a first-call session guitarist, having played with names such as 10cc, Tony Hadley, Brian May and Alice Cooper. Nick now brings his own blues rock band The Kendall Connection to The Stables. They recently supported Jools Holland, and their debut album was described

by Blues Matters Magazine as “one of the best debut albums this reviewer has heard in a long time”.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Gerry Jablonski Band

12 Apr

Hannah White Saturday 23 March, 8.45pm

£13.50

Hannah White began 2023 standing on the winner’s podium at the Americana Music Association UK Awards as a hugely popular winner for UK Song of the Year with the goosebumpinducing Crash. But the London-based singer-songwriter is one of those artists who is always about the next thing, and the year culminated in the release of a completely fresh adventure in her fast-expanding career: the exciting new album Sweet Revolution.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Mary Gauthier 18 Apr

36

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Dave Kelly Band £22.50

Sunday 24 March, 5pm & 8.45pm

21 Mar

STAGE 2

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Kendall Connection

MAR / APR

The Dave Kelly Band have continued with various line-ups to play for the past 40 plus years. For their latest visit to The Stables, the band will play some blues, but Dave has always seen his own band as an opportunity to play some other styles of music which he has always loved – rock, country, soul and some standards, and of course his own compositions outside of the blues genre. He’ll also include a selection from his new album Sun On My Face.

Robbie Cavanagh £14

Wednesday 27 March, 8.45pm

2024 sees award-winning singer and songwriter Robbie Cavanagh present his newest body of work, Tough Love, to the world. Where Robbie’s previous record To Leave/To Be Left grappled with emotions of loss and self-pity from leaving or being left behind, Tough Love comes as an invigorating reality check. It’s a grittier and stronger-minded letter to himself and to anybody else who may be in need of a heavy dose of tough love.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Dean Owen & The Sinners

21 Jun

Billy Watman £13.50

Saturday 30 March, 8.45pm

Billy Watman is an award-winning Anglo-Brazilian instrumental guitarist. His musical style and Latin roots fuse the genres of flamenco and classical with rock and pop. Billy is equally at ease on both steel and nylon strings and refuses to be pigeonholed into a specific style – his live show offers a mesmerising, genredefying musical journey.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Martin Taylor 4 Jun

Emma Stevens: The Bloom Tour + support from Emily Faye

£14.50

Thursday 4 April, 8.45pm

Life has been something of a whirlwind for Emma Stevens since she embarked on a solo career in 2012 and burst onto the scene with her distinctively catchy pop melodies fused with folk instrumentation and a touch of country. The increasing popularity of this uniquely versatile artist is now undeniable, thanks to more than three million Spotify plays and over a million video views.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Miranda Sykes

1 Jun

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

37

Hannah Rarity £16.50

STAGE 2

APRIL

Saturday 6 April, 8.45pm

Award-winning singer Hannah Rarity has made a lasting impression since being warmly embraced by the folk world, winning BBC Young Traditional Musician of the Year (2018) and recording and touring with top acts Blazin’ Fiddles, Rura and Cherish the Ladies. Both of her albums have been shortlisted for Album of the Year at the BBC Alba Scots Trad Music Awards.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Blazin’ Fiddles 6 Mar

feeling peckish?

Our snack bar is open from 7pm serving a variety of snacks, soft drinks, teas and coffees. Or why not enjoy a luxury Marshfield Farm ice-cream during the interval?

Save time at the bar! Place your interval drinks order at the bar before the show starts.

For more information on eatingand drinking at The Stables visit stables.org

Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion Sunday 7 April, 8.45pm

£13.50

Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion refresh the blues genre with eclectic arrangements, virtuosic playing and vocal prowess. Expect an exciting live set based around rootsy original songs, strong catchy riffs and exciting grooves. Zoe’s dynamic vocal delivery is complimented by the unmistakeable and inimitable touch and flow of Rob Koral on guitar and backed by the highly accomplished rhythm section of Pete Whittaker-Hammond (organ) and Eddy John (drums).

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Deborah Bonham Band 27 Apr

Gerry Jablonski Band Friday 12 April, 8.45pm

£13.50

The Scottish blues-rock group Gerry Jablonski Band have a unique trademark sound and style – powerful and energetic with an ultra-confident, no-holds-barred swagger. Winners of the best act in the 2018 UK Blues Awards, they deliver infectious blues rock, slow burners and high-octane blues stompers.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Catfish 20 Sep

38

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

keep up to date

Stay connected! /StablesMK

follow us on twitter @stablesMK

follow us on instagram

STAGE 2

For latest programme and other updates from The Stables, please visit www.stables.org and keep an eye on our social media channels.

16+

APRIL

like us on facebook

All details are correct at time of going to print.

stablesMK

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club £12.50 in advance, £14.50 on the door

Wednesday 17 April, 8.45pm

Compere Andrew Bird introduces Noel James and Maureen Younger (line-up is subject to change).

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

14+

15 May

Esther Manito: Hell Hath No Fury £15.50

Thursday 18 April, 8.45pm

Esther Manito is furious. Furious at the state of the world. At being considered dead at 40. At online comments. In Hell Hath No Fury, Esther is at her most passionate and opinionated.

She’s tried to keep a lid on it, but a coat rack has tipped her over the edge. It has far too many coats on it and it’s definitely not a metaphor for anything else.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Steve Bugeja

18 May

Alex Hart £14

Friday 19 April, 8.45pm

Described by BBC Radio 2 presenter Mark Radcliffe as “the Stevie Nicks of folk”, the south-west based singer-songwriter Alex Hart released her latest album Visions at the end of last year. Alex also collaborates and performs with Seth Lakeman, and her voice and her multi-instrumental playing features heavily on his latest album.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Jenny Colquitt

25 May

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

39

Maya de Vitry

STAGE 2

APR / MAY

Saturday 20 April, 8.45pm

£13.50

Maya de Vitry’s dynamic and vibrant voice seems to rise out of a need to bring songs to life. Her recordings and live performances embody both sincerity and playfulness, and a compelling reverence for the power of songs to be a place of gathering – whether played on stage or around a campfire.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Mary Gauthier 18 Apr

Tinkers Lane £14

Friday 26 April, 8.45pm

Tinkers Lane are a five-piece band playing the original songs of frontman Ian Roberts. The music ranges from intimate love songs to upbeat summer tunes that will have you dancing and dreaming of a better world. Melodic sing-along catchy tunes combine with perceptive, poetic lyrics underpinned by a yearning for love, peace and social justice.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Slambovian Circus of Dreams 20 Jun

The Fargo Railroad Co. Tuesday 30 April, 8.45pm

£16.50

The Fargo Railroad Co. are one of the hardest-working bands around, touring and recording their songs of life’s trials and triumphs with a traditional line-up of acoustic and electric guitars, drums and bass. With a live and two studio albums already in their back catalogue, shows in every part of the UK, two tours abroad and a UK support tour for Hayseed Dixie, the band are releasing their latest album Time And Grace in the spring.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Slambovian Circus of Dreams 20 Jun

John Reilly & Lewis Nitikman Thursday 2 May, 8.45pm

£16.50

John Reilly is a singer-songwriter based in Sheffield. He is delighted to making his debut at The Stables with his long-term writing partner, Canadian composer and pianist Lewis Nitikman.

John will showcase new songs and play some old favourites, including his single La La La (Bulletproof) which was BBC Radio 2 playlisted and received worldwide acclaim. He will also include some remarkable covers.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Peter Cox 21 Sep

40

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Patti Boulaye: Billie & Me £22.50

Saturday 4 May, 8.45pm

22 Jun

STAGE 2

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Natasha Seale

MAY

Billie & Me is a jazz and blues one-woman show that draws humorous, thought-provoking and entertaining parallels and similarities between Billie Holiday’s and Patti’s lives through childhood, career, love life, influences and lifestyle choices. The show features the music of Billie Holiday, Etta James, Bessie Smith, Alberta Hunter and Georges Bizet.

Rory Ingham Threes Up Organ Trio £13.50

Tuesday 7 May, 8.45pm

Rory Ingham Threes Up Organ Trio are a high-energy tromboneled organ trio playing a mixture of ferociously swinging standards and adventurous original music all written by members of the group. Jazz trombonist, educator and composer Rory Ingham is a winner of Rising Star in the British Jazz Awards and was chosen as ‘One To Watch’ in Jazzwise magazine.

LIKE THIS? LIKE THIS: The Remi Harris Hot Club Trio

14 Apr

Granny’s Attic £16.50

Wednesday 8 May, 8.45pm

With their exceptional musicianship and boundless energy, Granny’s Attic are going from strength to strength. Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne (melodeon, anglo concertina, vocals), George Sansome (guitar, vocals) and Lewis Wood (violin, vocals) have honed their skills touring the UK and Europe since 2009. Folk Radio described them as “one of the most exciting English folk acts on the scene right now”.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Jacob & Drinkwater

support our work The success of our music and education programme depends on the generous support of many individuals and organisations.

31 May

For further information please call 01908 280800 or email development@stables.org

B ecome a Friend of The Stables – benefits include priority booking and ticket discounts.

Name a Seat – your chosen name on a seat in the auditorium.

Leave a gift in your will to help nurture the next generation of musicians.

Join our group of volunteers and become a Stablemate.

Purchase Gift Vouchers which can be exchanged for tickets at The Stables.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

41

Rob Wheeler £11

Friday 10 May, 8.45pm

STAGE 2

MAY

Rob Wheeler is a singer-songwriter from Cheshire with influences ranging from The Beatles to Bob Dylan and Nick Drake. Previous supports for The Shires, John Smith, Nell Bryden and Newton Faulkner have introduced thousands of new fans to his unique brand of UK country songs delivered with passion and personality. He recently won Songwriter of the Year at the ARC Radio Listener awards.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: John Smith 5 Apr

Blair Dunlop: Let’s Get Out Of The Rain Tour + support from Painted Sky

£19

Saturday 11 May, 8.45pm

Blair Dunlop has been hailed as one of the UK’s most accomplished songwriters since he burst onto the folk scene with his debut Blight & Blossom in 2012. BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards followed, along with critical acclaim, and he is now firmly established as a household name among respected UK songwriters. Let’s Get Out Of The Rain will be Blair’s first studio album since 2018.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Hannah Smith & Toby Kuhn

16+

13 Mar

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club £12.50 in advance £14.50 on the door

Wednesday 15 May, 8.45pm

Compere Andrew Bird introduces James Sherwood and Prateek Kohli (line-up is subject to change).

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Mark Simmons 18 Jul

Jill Jackson £19

Friday 17 May, 8.45pm

Jill Jackson is not just a musician – she’s a force of nature, an artist whose music strikes a chord with the deepest emotions of listeners. From humble beginnings in Glasgow to gracing the stage of Top of The Pops and touring with Bryan Adams, Jill’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Now she re-introduces herself with her new album, Curse of The Damned, approached with the same honesty that has so endeared her to fans.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Dean Owens

42

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

21 Jun

14+

Steve Bugeja: Self Doubt (I Think) £15

Saturday 18 May, 8.45pm

STAGE 2

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Iain Stirling 10 Apr

MAY

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. He’s appeared on Stand Up Central (Comedy Central), Zoe Ball On Sunday (ITV) and Love Island: Aftersun (ITV2), and hosted BBC Radio 4’s Economics With Subtitles. This year Steve is discussing babies, eye tests and the time he went on holiday with 20 women.

James Kirby £19

Friday 24 May, 8.45pm

Award-winning singer-songwriter James Kirby has built a loyal international fan base over recent years, captivating audiences worldwide with his mellow voice and distinctive percussive guitar playing. Blending elements of folk, pop, blues, indie rock and piano, his compositions range from fast and furious to heartfelt and melodic, with James finding new and unorthodox techniques to make music from every part of the acoustic guitar.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Billy Watman

30 Mar

turn up the volume!

Turn Up The Volume! is The Stables’ monthly podcast. Each month we’ll bring you lively conversations with upcoming Stables artists and bands, exclusive looks behind the scenes, along with news and updates on what’s coming up.

Visit stables.org to take a listento the latest episode.

Jenny Colquitt £15

Saturday 25 May, 8.45pm

One of RnR Magazine’s ‘Ones to Watch for 2022’, emerging artist Jenny Colquitt encompasses a unique combination of Americana, indie and folk rock and pop. Jenny was winner of the 2021/2022 FATEA Female Artist of the Year award and the 2020/2021 GSMC Award for best female solo singersongwriter. Her debut album, Something Beautiful, was released in 2021.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Emma Stevens

4 Apr

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

43

Jacob & Drinkwater £14.50

STAGE 2

MAY / JUN

Friday 31 May, 8.45pm

Jacob & Drinkwater began performing together in 2014. They have since released an EP, a live album and two studio albums, gained plaudits from BBC6 and BBC Introducing, performed at Glastonbury and toured extensively in the UK and Europe. With a core sound built around acoustic guitar, double bass and vocal harmonies, their live show has been described as “intense and spellbinding” by Folk Radio UK. LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Granny’s Attic

8 May

Miranda Sykes £15.50

Saturday 1 June, 8.45pm

“It feels like a lifetime ago that the world was in lockdown and the hugs and closeness of family and friends seemed like a faroff dream. My new album Out Of The Woods is a collection of songs that have seen me through my own journey of isolation, illness and recovery and I hope they bring you as much comfort as they did me over the past few turbulent years.”

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Steve Knightley 16 Oct

Banter £13.50

Friday 7 June, 8.45pm

Described by many as the future of folk, Banter take English traditional music to the next level with their iconic interpretations of classic songs and dance tunes. They’ll be touring material from their new studio album Heroes alongside some of their old favourites.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Jacob & Drinkwater

31 May

Iain Matthews

with special guests Plumhall Saturday 15 June, 8.45pm

£22.50

Iain Matthews was a founding member of Fairport Convention and went on to front bands such as Plainsong, Hi-Fi, No Grey Faith, More Than a Song and a Dutch jazz combo, The Searing Quartet. These days Iain prefers to focus more on acoustic solo shows, where he tells stories and plays many fan favourites from his 50-year career.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: John Smith 5 Apr

44

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Dean Owens & The Sinners £16.50

Friday 21 June, 8.45pm

STAGE 2

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Robbie Cavanagh 27 Mar

JUNE

The Sinners make a glorious, brass-infused driving sound with Craig Ross (electric guitar), Philip Cardwell (trumpet) and Adam McMillan (bass) all backing Dean’s searingly soulful voice up front. Together they conjure the magical panoramic sweep of the US desert states, infused with grit and dust from Scotland’s post-industrial heartland. Expect songs of love and lust, sinners and saints, the displaced, the wanderers and the border ghosts.

Natasha Seale: Two Pigeons and a Pizza £16.50

Saturday 22 June, 8.45pm

Vocalist, songwriter and former West End leading lady, Natasha Seale is delighted to return to The Stables for an intimate acoustic evening performing a brand-new set of original songs reflecting on life, motherhood, relationships, nature and finding the magic in the mundane. Deeply personal, yet delivered with Natasha’s trademark warmth and wit, this intimate session will resonate, inspire and ultimately uplift.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Best of Vonda Shepard 19 Oct

The

Stables Bar

Beers & Lagers Our well-stocked bar offers a selection of quality draught and bottled beers, lagers and cider. Look out for our guest beers from local breweries including Leighton Buzzard Brewery, Kelchner Brewery in Ampthill and Tring Brewery.

Drivers Drinks Several low alcohol drinks are available – try an Adnams Ghost Ship or Heineken Zero. Prefer something soft? We have a wide range of still and sparkling drinks to satisfy you.

Interval Orders Beat the queue in the interval by pre-ordering your drinks. Collect and enjoy at your leisure, either in our foyer or back in your seat.

Snack Bar The Stables Bar is open from 7pm on concert nights, serving a wide range of drinks for you to enjoy during the evening.

Hot and cold drinks are available from our popular snack bar plus a selection of sweet treats, crisps and peanuts. Why not try an ice cream from our tempting selection from the Marshfield range, which includes sorbet and vegan flavours?

Our Gin Selection Why not try a gin from our small but quality range of gins – Gordons, Bombay Sapphire, Warners Rhubarb, Gordons Pink – and from our local distilleries Wolverton Gin and Safine Drenc from the wharf distillery in Towcester.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

45

LEARN & TAKE PART

learn and take part The atmosphere was relaxed and the tutor allowed everyone to learn in their own way offering additional support where it was needed.

Learning and participation are central to The Stables’ activities, bringing music to the widest possible audience. Our learning and participation programme works with people of all ages and levels of ability and across many musical styles.

With lifelong learning at its heart, the programme includes workshops, courses, talks, concerts and training. The Stables aims to encourage people to become involved in music, whether by developing existing skills or offering a musical experience for the first time.

The programme offers events for children and young people, through to opportunities for more experienced audiences and music makers. Our outreach work and partnerships aim to support people across the region who may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in musicmaking activities.

Great venue, great course, great teacher!

The Stables (registered charity number 1178665)

Over the following pages you’ll find details of our workshops and courses over the next few months.

Please call The Stables box office on 01908 280800 or visit stables.org to book a place.

46

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

LEARN & TAKE PART

learn and take part workshops & courses APRIL

Date

Time

Suitability

Fee

Ukulele Beginners Part 1

Sat 6

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£38

Saxophone from Scratch

Sat 6

1-4pm

Adult/15+

£28

Harmonica Beginners Part 1

Sat 20

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£38

Intro to Music Recording & Production Part 1

Sat 27

10am-4pm

Adult/15+

£52

MAY

Date

Time

Suitability

Fee

Saxophone from Scratch

Sat 4

1-4pm

Adult/15+

£28

Blues Guitar Beginners Part 1

Sat 11

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£38

Cajon Beginners Part 1

Sun 12

10am-12.30pm

Adult/15+

£28

Singing Lead Vocals & Microphone Technique

Sun 19

1.30-5pm

Adult/15+

£28

Harmonica Beginners Part 2

Sat 25

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£38

Ukulele Beginners Part 2

Sat 25

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£38

JUNE

Date

Time

Suitability

Fee

Intro to Music Recording & Production Part 2

Sat 1

10am-4pm

Adult/15+

£52

Refresher Sax from Scratch

Sat 1

1-4pm

Adult/15+

£28

Melodeon Beginners Part 1

Sat 8

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£42

Blues Guitar Beginners Part 2

Sat 29

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£38

COURSES

Dates

Time

Suitability

Fee

Saxophone Beginners

Sats 6 Apr, 4 May, 1 Jun, 6 Jul

9.30am-12.30pm

Adult/15+

£74

Saxophone Study Group

Sats 13 Apr, 11 May, 8 Jun, 13 Jul 9.30am-12.30pm OR 1-4pm

Adult/15+

£74

Latin Percussion for Beginners

Suns 14 Apr, 12 May, 9 Jun

Adult/15+

£56

Saxophone Improvers Beginners Sats 20 Apr, 18 May, 15 Jun, 20 Jul 9.30am-12.30pm OR 1-4pm

Adult/15+

£74

Suns 9, 16, 23, 30 June, 7 Jul; Sun 14 Jul

10am-1pm; 2-11pm

Adult/15+

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

Rock Experience

1.30-4.30pm

£95

(£75 students)

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LEARN & TAKE PART

Saxophone Beginners Course

Adult/15+ Course

Saturdays 6 April , 4 May , 1 June, 6 July, 9.30am-12.30pm (four-session course) £74 This course offers beginner saxophonists the opportunity to learn as part of a group. Through practical musical activities and exploring tunes, you’ll start to build confidence and develop some of the necessary technical and musical skills to play the saxophone. The course is suitable for beginners who have attended our Sax from Scratch or Refresher workshops, or had another basic introduction to the saxophone.

Participants will need to bring their own tenor, alto or baritone sax. If you have any other recent sax playing experience and are interested in joining the course, contact education@stables.org for further advice before booking.

Ukulele Beginners Part 1

Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 6 April, 10am-3pm

£38

The ukulele is a fun and accessible instrument making a big comeback in popular music and in education. This workshop is ideal for beginners to learn the basics of playing, how to accompany songs and ukulele techniques. Come and take part in the ukulele revival! No prior experience necessary! Participants will need to bring a soprano-, concert- or tenor-sized ukulele.

(The follow on workshop Ukulele Beginners Part 2 workshop takes place on Saturday 25 May.)

Saxophone from Scratch

Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 6 April OR Saturday 4 May, 1-4pm

£28

Have you ever wanted to try the saxophone but didn’t know where to start? Do you want to try it for the first time or have a go before buying one? Starting with the absolute basics, this workshop takes you on a on a step-by-step approach to making your first sounds, breathing tips, exercises, learning fingerings and scale patterns and playing simple melodies from those scales. No previous musical experience is required. You’ll be in a small group of beginners and in a friendly and supportive learning environment. Instruments are provided for use in the workshop, but if you have your own you are welcome to bring it along for advice and comparison, especially if it is one you may be practicing on after the workshop.

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All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Adult/15+ Course

Saturdays 13 April, 11 May, 8 June, 13 July, Group 1 9.30am-12.30pm OR Group 2 1-4pm (four session course)

£74

This course is for saxophonists with more than two years’ experience and looking to reach an intermediate standard (equivalent to Grade 3 plus) on their instrument. You will have the opportunity to learn through a structured programme of study, incorporating a mixture of scale and study work, duet and group performance and improvisation activities.

LEARN & TAKE PART

Saxophone Study Group

The focus is on having fun, building confidence and competence in a supportive environment which enables students to progress in their musical development.

Contact us on education@stables.org to find out availability of places, and also so we can advise you which of the two groups is suitable to join and if your recent sax playing experience is suitable for the course.

Latin Percussion for Beginners

Adult/15+ Course

Sundays 14 April, 12 May, 9 June, 1.30-4.30pm (three session course)

£56

This introductory course is a chance to enjoy the experience of playing percussion in an ensemble, to develop your playing skills and an understanding of latin rhythms, instruments and styles.

You’ll look at how the percussion is built up for a salsa band and how that can develop to play in other latin and popular music styles. You’ll use instruments including congas, bongos, timbales, maracas, guiro, claves and cowbells, and learn how different percussion patterns interlock and work together to create energetic and infectious rhythms.

Instruments are provided, but you are welcome to bring your own if you have them and would like to try playing them in a group. The course is suitable for anyone who has a basic technique in hand drumming from playing conga or other hand drums (able to play basic patterns with bass, slap and open tone) and has some basic rhythm skills gained from playing drumkit or other percussion. Contact education@ stables.org if you need further advice.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

49

LEARN & TAKE PART

Saxophone Improving Beginners Course Saturdays 20 April, 18 May, 15 June, 20 July (four session course) Group 1, 9.30am-12.30pm OR Group 2, 1-4pm

Adult/15+ Course £74

This course offers returning saxophonists the opportunity to learn as part of a group through a fun programme of practical musical activities and performance. It aims to help students develop core technical, performance and improvisation skills and build confidence.

Students must have their own instruments and ideally have attended previous Stables Saxophone from Scratch, Refresher and Improving Beginners workshops. If you have any other recent playing experience and are interested in joining the course, contact education@stables for further advice before booking.

Harmonica Beginners Part 1 Saturday 20 April, 10am-3pm

Adult/15+ Workshop £38

Learn the basics of playing harmonica in this popular workshop, where you’ll be introduced to tune playing, chord-playing and blues improvisation. No previous harmonica experience is necessary, but you’ll need to bring a 10-hole harmonica in C. (The follow-on Harmonica Beginners Part 2 workshop takes place on Saturday 25 May.)

Introduction to Music Recording and Production Part 1 Saturday 27 April, 10am-4pm

Adult/15+ Workshop £52

This workshop offers an introduction to recording and production using music technology, looking at microphone and production techniques and recording different instruments. The workshop uses MAC computer and Logic Software in ways that apply generally across Digital Audio Workstations software including Ableton, Cubase and Sonar. We’ll focus on recording and production rather than just creating within the software and you’ll be able to take away audio files of tracks produced to develop the skills you’ve learned. If you play an instrument, bring it along for the afternoon recording session to learn how best to record it. (Our Part 2 follow on Saturday 1 June looks in more detail into studio-based recording and production.)

50

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Saturday 11 May, 10am-3pm

Adult/15+ Workshop £38

This workshop introduces the blues, looking at techniques such as turnarounds, shuffles and basic basslines, demystifying ‘V-IV-I’ chord sequences. We’ll explore fundamental techniques such as finger picking, hammer-ons and pull-offs, using examples from classic recordings. You’ll need to be comfortable with E, A, D and B7 chords and be able to change confidently between them.

Some knowledge of E and A minor pentatonic scales will also be helpful. (Details available on The Stables website or email education@stables.org.) You will need to bring a six-string acoustic guitar. (The follow on Blues Guitar Part 2 takes place on Saturday 29 June.)

Cajon Beginners Workshop

Adult/15+ Workshop

Sunday 12 May, 10am-12.30pm

£28

LEARN & TAKE PART

Blues Guitar Beginners Part 1

The Cajon (wooden box), the smallest drum kit in the world, is the perfect powerful accompaniment instrument to any kind of band, be it blues, hip hop, boogie, rock, pop, folk or latin – providing a full snare and rich bass sound. Cajons come in various shapes, sizes and styles and during this one-day workshop you’ll get hands-on experience to fully discover a range of possibilities this versatile instrument can provide.

Covering tones, exercises and rhythms, this workshop is suitable for kit drummers and hand drummers alike. Please bring a cajon (with snare wires inside) if you have one or contact education@stables.org if you need to borrow one (limited numbers available).

Singing Lead Vocals and Microphone Technique Sunday 19 May, 1.30-5pm

Adult/15+ Workshop £28

For singers who want to explore some of the technical, artistic and practical aspects of singing with a microphone. Perhaps you already sing in a choir, or play in a band, and want to try solo or lead vocals? You’ll look at equipment essentials, microphone technique and which mic to use, understanding monitoring, fold back and live mixing to get the best out of your sound, how to approach different styles of music such as rock, pop or jazz and how to tackle the challenges of fronting a band, whatever the size.

You’ll also look at how ‘phrasing’ can help with the challenges of some songs and have a go at singing with backing tracks and stripped-down guitar accompaniment.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

51

LEARN & TAKE PART

Harmonica Beginners Part 2 Saturday 25 May, 10am-3pm

Adult/15+ Workshop £38

Learn more of the basics of harmonica playing in this Beginners Part 2 workshop. This session will consolidate the work you have already done on improvisation, tune playing and chugging at Part 1 and move on to the fundamental blues technique of note bending. Participants will need a 10-hole harmonica in C. Prior attendance on Harmonica Beginners Part 1 is recommended.

Ukulele Beginners Part 2

Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 25 May, 10am-3pm

£38

Building on Beginners Part 1, this workshop is ideal for beginner ukulele players to develop their playing further and will help you to develop your rhythm and melody playing skills, add new chords and combine different strokes for rhythmic effects.

Using a mix of contemporary and vintage material, you’ll also get the chance to practice as a ukulele band and try out playing the melody, accompanying and adding colour to the musical arrangements. Previous attendance at Ukulele Beginners Part 1 is recommended and you will need to bring a soprano-, tenor- or concert-sized ukulele.

Intro to Music Recording and Production Part 2

Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 1 June, 10am-4pm

£52

Aimed at those who have attended the Intro to Music Recording & Production Part 1 workshop or who already have some experience of recording and music technology, this follow-up session looks in more depth at microphone technique, effects and processors, synthesis, MIDI, mixing and mastering and the techniques you need to create great recordings in your own home or DIY studio. The workshop uses MAC computer and Logic Software, but in a way that applies generally across Digital Audio Workstations software such as Ableton, Cubase and Sonar. If you play an instrument, please bring it along for the afternoon recording session. (This course follows on from the Introduction to Music Recording & Production Part 1 on Saturday 27 April.)

Refresher Sax from Scratch Saturday 1 June, 1-4pm

Adult/15+ Workshop £28

Following on from the absolute beginners Sax from Scratch workshop, this Refresher workshop will enable students to have more fun playing on one of our saxophones, or bring their own sax, with a view to developing their skills and techniques. Ideal for those that have attended previous Sax from Scratch workshops, or for early beginners who would like to develop their playing.

52

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Adult/15+ Workshop £42

Saturday 8 June, 10am-3pm

A rare chance for beginners to pick up and play the small but mighty melodeon (aka button accordion/squeezebox) with expert guidance from tutor Mel Biggs. Drawing on traditional English dance tunes, the workshop introduces learning the instrument left hand first to develop effective rhythmical control and coordination, before learning your first tune with both hands (the bit most people find tricky at first!). This workshop is for anyone interested in English folk music, folk dance, or trying a squeezebox for the first time. You don’t need to read music notation, and no previous melodeon or folk music experience is required, but a basic knowledge of music (scales, chords, time signatures) will help. This workshop is for instruments tuned in D/G with a minimum of 2-rows and 8-basses. If you don’t have your own, some loan boxes will be available on the day.

(Limited number available so please contact us at education@stables.org if you need to borrow one.)

The Rock Experience

LEARN & TAKE PART

Melodeon Beginners Part 1

Adult/15+ Course

Sundays 9, 16, 23, 30 June, 7 July, 10am-1pm; Sunday 14 July 2-11pm (includes final 7.30pm performance)

£95 (£75 students)

The perfect course for aspiring rock and pop musicians who would like the chance to play in a band, meet other musicians and learn from experienced tutors. Whatever your instrument, whether you are a back-bedroom guitarist, budding vocalist, or interested in forming a band of your own, The Rock Experience is a great opportunity to take the first steps.

You’ll be supported and coached by our tutors in rehearsal and performance skills, finishing on the final Sunday in a gig on The Stables stage.

You need to have some experience of playing your instrument and be confident enough to have a go playing alongside other people, but no previous band experience is necessary.

You need to be willing to have a go at different rock and pop styles, experiment with different songs and learn alongside other people in your band.

Players who have some previous band experiences are welcome, but please join the course as an individual and be prepared to play with new people. Unfortunately, we can’t take existing or pre-formed bands on to the course.

If you’d like further information or advice about joining this course, contact The Stables Learning and Participation Department at education@stables.org

Blues Guitar Beginners Part 2 Saturday 29 June, 10am-3pm

Adult/15+ Workshop £38

Improve your blues playing with this workshop designed to help you move on with your technique. By looking at tunes by Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf and John Lee Hooker, you’ll learn about 12-bar progressions, the blues scale and shuffle rhythms in more depth. Please bring a six-string acoustic guitar with you. Prior attendance on the Beginners Part 1 workshop is recommended.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

53

INFORMATION

Need Tools? Look No further.

We’ve got the lot.

From our humble beginning as a small online retailer, journeying to the opening of our first store in 2015, to the exclusively online retailer you see now.

We're a one-stop shop with one goal in mind: to provide the best products at the very best prices.

That's how we've become one of the largest online tool retailers in the UK, selling the biggest brands in the game: including DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee and more.

OUR WEBSITE

54

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

INFORMATION

and not forgetting...

Tickets are still available for the following Stables shows in February:

FEBRUARY

Date

Fairport Convention

Tue 6

The Fabulous Miss Jones Trio

Tue 6

Thea Gilmore

Thu 8

The Ultimate Classic Rock Show

Sat 10

The Chris Ingham Quartet

Sun 11

Viggo Venn

Sun 11

Janey Godley

Wed 14

Cregan & Co

Thu 15

Aaron Simmonds

Thu 15

Think Floyd

Fri 16

Nine Below Zero

Sat 17

Carrie Martin

Sat 17

The Amazing Bubble Man

Tue 19

Garth Marenghi

Wed 20

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

Thu 21

Coldplace

Fri 22

ELO Again

Sat 23

Maddie Morris & George Sansome

Sat 23

Pete Firman

Sun 24

James Brown v Prince

Thu 29

Christina Martin

Thu 29

Nine Below Zero

Sat 17 Feb

Pete Firman

Sun 24 Feb

James Brown v Prince

Thu 29 Feb email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

55

INFORMATION

Promote your business

at Your Business Expo Milton Keynes www.yourbusinessexpo.co.uk

code n the for Sca er t is g to re ticket e a fre

Reach, engage and connect with the local business community • Generate quality sales leads • Connect with key decision makers • Increase brand awareness • Meet suppliers to help grow your business • Attend seminars led by industry experts or meet and mingle at the Your Business Networking Breakfast book here: http://bit.ly/48o9xYF Headline Sponsors

56

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Business 10AM-3PM Expo2024 5 JUN

YOUR

Free Entry!

Sc code an the to en about quire standa

>> THE RIDGEWAY CENTRE, MILTON KEYNES MK12 5TH

Powered by Business MK

Camille O’Sullivan

Solstice

Shakatak

Wed 4 Sep

Sat 7 Sep

Fri 13 Sep

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM JULY The Fugitives £16.50

Thu 4

New Amen Corner: Bringing On Back the 60s £21.50

Sat 6

Northern Soul Tour Live £30

Thu 18

Mark Simmons: Quip of the Week £20

Fri 19

Livewire: Tribute to AC/DC £29.50

Sun 21 Rubbish Shakespeare: Romeo & Juliet From £11 Sat 27

ALL SHOWS START AT 8PM, EXCEPT WHERE STATED

AUGUST

Tue 2

Karnataka £16.50

Wed 31 Love with Johnny Echols £27.50

INFORMATION

also on sale

Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Friday 16 February.

Prior to this date Stables Friends have priority.

Fri 6

The Tiger Lillies £27.50

Sat 7

Solstice £20

Sun 25 Hello Again: Tribute to Neil Diamond £33

Sun 8

What Now My Love? Herb Alpert Tribute £25

Fri 30 & Fleetwood Bac Sat 31 From £26

Tue 10

Hope & Social £20

SEPTEMBER

Wed 11 G4: 20th Anniversary Tour From £29.50

Sat 24

Sun 1

Hats Off to Led Zeppelin £22.50

Go Now! Tribute to the Moody Blues £29.50

Fri 13

Shakatak £25

Tue 3

Bootleg Blondie £24

Sat 14

Nick Cope From £14.50

Wed 4

Camille O’Sullivan: Love Letter £27.50

Sat 14

Gary Meikle £31

Thu 5

Cloudbusting: The Music of Kate Bush From £25

Sun 15 Richard Carpenter £90 Wed 18 India Electric Co. £20

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

57

INFORMATION

also on sale Richard Carpenter

Aled Jones

Peter Cox

Sun 15 Sep

Thu 19 Sep

Sun 21 Sep

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM Thu 19

Aled Jones From £33.50

Fri 20

Danny Beard: Straight Expectations £24.50

Sun 21 Peter Cox £29.50 Sun 22 Stars From The Commitments £33 Thu 26

Merrill Osmond From £31

Fri 27

Abba Forever £33

Sun 29 & The Shires Mon 30 £44.50

ALL SHOWS START AT 8PM, EXCEPT WHERE STATED

Tue 8 – Henning Wehn: Thu 10 Acid Wehn £31 Fri 11

Sat 12

58

Best of Queen £38.50

Sun 6

Marty Wilde: Greatest Hits Tour 2024 £33

Nearly Dan £24.50

Sun 13 Ronnie Scott’s All Star Band £25 Mon 14 Wishbone Ash £35.50 Wed 16 Steve Knightley £22.50 Sat 19

OCTOBER Fri 4

Rave On: The Ultimate 50s & 60s Experience £27.50

The Best of Vonda Shepard £34.50

Wed 23 Urzila Carlson: Just Jokes £19 Mon 28 Albert Lee: 80th Birthday Tour £31

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Tue 29

Lindisfarne £34.50

Thu 31

Gary & Robbie Live in Concert £32.50

NOVEMBER Mon 4 Omid Djalili: & Tue 5 Namaste £31.50 Wed 6 Talon & Thu 7 £30 Thu 14

The Sound of Springsteen £33

Fri 15

The Real Thing £38

Sun 24 The Beggs Sisters £16.50 Thu 28

Buddy Holly & the Cricketers £26.50

INFORMATION

Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Friday 16 February, Prior to this date Stables Friends have priority.

Henning Wehn

Steve Knightley

The Real Thing

Tue 8 – Thu 10 Oct

Wed 16 Oct

Fri 15 Nov

STAGE 2

ALL SHOWS START AT 8.45PM , EXCEPT WHERE STATED

DECEMBER

JULY

Sat 7

No Jacket Required £25

Thu 4

Diana Jones £14.50

Thu 7

Sat 6

Thu 12

Ed Byrne: Tragedy Before Time £35.50

The Weeping Willows £13.50

Thu 14 Christine Collister £18.50

JANUARY 2025 Sat 11

Dire Streets £33

Sat 25

80’s Mania From £30.50

NOVEMBER

SEPTEMBER Fri 13

The Shackleton Trio £16.50

Fri 20

Catfish £20

OCTOBER Sun 6

Plumhall £15

Suthering £16.50

Tue 19 Eleanor McEvoy £22.50 Wed 20 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club £12.50

DECEMBER Wed 11 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club £12.50

Sat 12 Tad Newton’s Jazz Friends £16.50

SUNDAY SESSIONS IN THE MANCINI FORUM

11.30AM

OCTOBER Sun 20 The Dime Notes £16.50

Wed 16 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club £12.50 Mon 14 Tom Waters Band £26.50

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

59

INFORMATION

booking information How to book

Booking Fees

Core box office opening hours:

Prices published in this brochure include all booking commission fees.

Please visit www.stables.org for details of current opening hours

For tickets up to £10: a commission fee of £1 per ticket will be charged

IN PERSON: please refer to our website for current arrangements regarding in-person booking

For tickets between £10.01 and £15: a commission fee of £1.50 per ticket will be charged

BY PHONE: 01908 280800 during opening hours; text phone users please call 18001 01908 280800.

For tickets between £15.01 and £25: a commission fee of £2.50 per ticket will be charged

ONLINE: www.stables.org

For tickets more than £25.01 and £35: a commission fee of £3.50 per ticket will be charged

COLLECTING YOUR TICKETS: E-tickets: You can choose to receive your tickets via email. You can either print these out at home or show them on your phone to our front of house staff when entering the auditorium.

For tickets more than £35: a commission fee of £4.50 per ticket will be charged These fees apply to all booking channels - in person, by phone and online.

Ticket collection: from The Stables box office during opening hours.

Concessions/discounts

Postal tickets: At an extra cost of £2.50, we can send your tickets to you by post.

Concessions are available on selected performances and where they apply are indicated on the ticket pricing details.

Payment options

You can pay by cash if booking in person; we accept all major debit and credit cards.

Reservations

Gift Vouchers Gift vouchers for The Stables are available to purchase online and from the box office.

Data protection

Ticket reservations must be paid for within three days of booking (excluding groups and Friends of The Stables who can reserve for up to seven days). We are unable to reserve tickets without payment within seven days prior to the performance.

We would like to add or retain your details to keep you informed about future events promoted by The Stables.

When you make your first booking with us, you will be asked whether you want to receive such information.

To be removed from our mailing lists at any time, please call or email the box office boxoffice@stables.org

Terms & Conditions

For full terms and conditions, please visit www.stables.org

seating plan

AB AA

This seating plan gives a general overview of The Stables main auditorium. Please ask a member of our box office staff at time of booking if you have questions regarding the choice of your seats KEY:

Balcony

LEFT DOOR

ENTRANCES

Balcony BR

LEVEL SEAT TIERED SEAT BALCONY SEATING WHEELCHAIR

CA CB CC CD CE CF CG CH CJ CK CL Sound Desk

BL

Balcony

DB DA

AH AG AF AE AD AC

THRUST STAGE DH DG DF DE DD DC

DH DG DF

Shaded areas represent seating levels not prices. Each show is individually priced.

PROSCENIUM STAGE

RIGHT DOOR

For large print brochures, please call our Box Office on 01908 280800 60

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

KEY:

L T B W

th

H5 Portw

ay

A421 H8

A421

S

BUCKINGHAM

0N

13

M1

ew tR por

WALTON

ay

Gr

w ove

th

l Lane

H9

Sou

oad

• Take the second right (Dankworth Way) by the traffic lights onto the new approach road, signposted The Stables. The Stables entrance is straight ahead.

CO’

A5

• At the Kingston roundabout take the first exit signposted Wavendon/Woburn Sands, onto the A5130 (Newport Road)

130

• Head towards Milton Keynes on A421

BEDFORD

A5 TES

• Take the second right (Dankworth Way) by the traffic lights onto the new approach road, signposted The Stables. The Stables entrance is straight ahead.

From M1 Junction 13

y Wa

46

• At the Kingston roundabout take the second exit signposted Wavendon/Woburn Sands, onto the A5130 (Newport Road)

lds

Chi

A41

• At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit.

Follow the road through to the Kingston roundabout

H6

1

• Head towards Milton Keynes

NEWPORT PAGNELL

A42

From M1 Junction 14 • At the first roundabout take the 2nd exit

MK17 8LU

Nor

J13

M1

Stockwel

The Stables is situated to the south east of Milton Keynes in the village of Wavendon.

A50 9 J14

How to find us

INFORMATION

visitor information

BLETCHLEY WAVENDON

WOBURN

Accessible Toilets

There are three accessible public toilets – one as part of the main toilet area situated in the foyer; further toilets are located next to the ladies and within the gents, both accessible from the auditorium.

Parking

Facilities for Hearing Impaired Customers

The Stables has free car-parking on site (vehicles and contents are left entirely at owner’s own risk). At busy times, your exit from the car park may be slightly delayed – thank you for your patience. There are a limited amount of disabled parking spaces available (not bookable in advance). We also have a small bicycle rack available to the left of the main public entrance.

The main auditorium is fitted with an Ampetronic system.

To use this system you must have a hearing aid with either a switchable or auto-detect T-Setting built in. Stage 2 customers will need to wear a hearing necklace, available from the box office. If you wear a hearing device please inform a member of the box office team when booking your tickets so that they can seat you in the area of the auditorium where the signal is strongest.

Access information

Assistance Dogs

The Stables welcomes people with disabilities. For full access information, please refer to the Your Visit section on our website at www.stables.org The Stables is accessible to wheelchair users and other customers with limited mobility. There is a lift available giving access to seats on lower accessible levels. We can accommodate eight people in wheelchairs per performance, subject to availability. We have volunteer customer assistants available at the majority of events to provide assistance.

Please ask a member of our box office team at the time of booking if you have any questions or concerns about your access around the building.

Assistance dogs are welcome, but please advise us when you book so that we can allocate appropriate seats and inform you of any special effects that might affect your dog’s comfort.

Eating and drinking at The Stables Our foyer snack bar serves a range of light snacks, soft drinks, teas and coffees. Ice-creams are also available.

The Stables bar will be available for pre-show and interval drinks on performance nights.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

61

INFORMATION

diary at a glance MARCH

Fri 29

A Night to Remember Motown Show

Fri 1

Hejira: Celebrating Joni Mitchell

Sat 30

Lionel: Tribute to Lionel Richie

Sat 2

Fred’s House

Sat 30

Billy Watman

Sun 3

Ceilidh Experience Concert & Dance

APRIL

Tue 5

Kofi Baker’s Cream Faith

Wed 6

Blazin’ Fiddles

Wed 6

Alexandr Misko

Thu 7

Battle of the Bands

Fri 8

The Glenn Miller Orchestra

Sat 9

The Kast Off Kinks

Sat 9

Jinder

Sun 10 Lee Hurst Sun 10 Lucy Stevens Tue 12

The Horne Section

Wed 13 The Chimpanzees of Happytown Wed 13 Ensemble 360 Wed 13 Hannah James & Toby Kuhn Thu 14

Reginald D. Hunter

Thu 14

The Blackheart Orchestra

Fri 15

Are You Experienced? Tribute to Jimi Hendrix

Sat 16

Never The Bride

Sun 17

Sunday Sessions: The Dean Stockdale Quartet

Sun 17 Brighouse & Rastrick Brass Band Mon 18 Ligeti Quartet: We Compose Wed 20 Home Service Wed 20 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club Thu 21

The Dublin Legends

Thu 21

The Kendall Connection

Fri 22

Jon Courtenay

Sat 23

The Coral

Sat 23

Hannah White

Sun 24 The Story of Guitar Heroes Sun 24 Dave Kelly Band Tue 26

Aly Bain & Phil Cunningham

Wed 27 Graffiti Classics Wed 27 Robbie Cavanagh Thu 28

62

The Counterfeit Stones

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

Wed 3

Stables Screenings: Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (PG)

Wed 3

Stables Screenings: Wonka (PG)

Wed 3

Stables Screenings: The Last of the Blonde Bombshells (12)

Thu 4

Pop Princesses

Thu 4

Clinton Baptiste

Thu 4

Emma Stevens

Fri 5

John Smith

Sat 6

FM

Sat 6

Hannah Rarity

Sun 7

Pasadena Roof Orchestra

Sun 7

Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion

Wed 10 Iain Stirling Thu 11

Teach Rex Live

Thu 11

Richard Digance

Fri 12

Royal South

Fri 12

Gerry Jablonski Band

Sat 13

Rush: A Joyous Jamaican Journey

Sun 14

Sunday Sessions: The Remi Harris Hot Club Trio

Sun 14 The George Harrison Project Wed 17 Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club Wed 17 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club Thu 18

Mary Gauthier

Thu 18

Esther Manito

Fri 19

Paul Foot

Fri 19

Alex Hart

Sat 20

The Manfreds

Sat 20

Maya De Vitry

Sun 21 Woburn Sands Band Mon 22 John Cooper Clarke Tue 23

Red Priest

Wed 24 Feast of Fiddes Thu 25

UK Blues Awards

Friends and Founders discount applies

Educational

Stage 2

Mancini Forum

For more information see page 3

Fri 26

Nights on Broadway

Fri 24

James Kirby

Fri 26

Tinkers Lane

Sat 25

The History of Rock

Sat 27

Deborah Bonham Band

Sat 25

Jenny Colquitt

Sun 28 Showaddywaddy

Sun 26 The Shires

Mon 29 Punt & Dennis

Tue 28

Stables Screenings: Barbie (12)

Tue 30

Miles Jupp

Tue 28

Stables Screenings: The Great Escaper (12A)

Tue 30

The Fargo Railroad Co.

Wed 29 FitkinWall

MAY

Thu 30

The Americana Revue

Wed 1

Stables Screenings: One Life (PG)

Fri 31

G2 Genesis

Thu 2

Nurse Georgie Carroll

Fri 31

Jacob & Drinkwater

Thu 2

John Reilly & Lewis Nitikman

JUNE

Fri 3

Show of Hands

Sat 1

G2 Genesis

Sat 4

James Campbell: Don’t Panic!

Sat 1

Miranda Sykes

Sat 4

Andy Parsons

Sun 2

Alina Orchestra Family Concert

Sat 4

Patti Boulaye

Sun 2

RANT

Sun 5

Focus

Tue 4

Martin Taylor

Tue 7

Katherine Priddy

Thu 6

Clive Anderson

Tue 7

Rory Ingham Threes Up Organ Trio

Fri 7

Quo Connection

Wed 8

Count Arthur Strong

Fri 7

Banter

Wed 8

Granny’s Attic

Sat 8

Len Phillips Swing Orchestra

Thu 9

The Simon & Garfunkel Story

Wed 12 Rich Hall

Fri 10

Alina Orchestra: Summer Nights

Thu 13

Six Chick Flicks

Fri 10

Rob Wheeler

Fri 14

Johnny Hates Jazz

Sat 11

Griff Rhys Jones

Sat 15

Carl Hutchinson

Sat 11

Blair Dunlop

Sat 15

Iain Matthews

Sun 12 Sunday Sessions: The Viper Club

Sun 16 Verity Bromham Band

Sun 12 Griff Rhys Jones

Wed 19 Terry Slesser’s Back Street Crawler

Tue 14

Thu 20

The Slambovian Circus of Dreams

Wed 15 Mugenkyo

Fri 21

Roy Orbison & the Traveling Wilburys Experience

Wed 15 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

Fri 21

Dean Owens & The Sinners

Thu 16

Peter White

Sat 22

La Voix

Fri 17

Swinging at The Cotton Club

Sat 22

Natasha Seale

Fri 17

Jill Jackson

Sun 23 Grimethorpe Colliery Band

Sat 18

Ultimate Bowie

Sat 18

Steve Bugeja

Tue 25 Zog & the Flying Doctors Thu 27

Talisk

Sun 19 Peter & Anthony Donegan Thu 23 Fri 24

The Gigspanner Big Band & Raynor Winn Rosie Holt

Thu 27

Curtis Stigers

Fri 28

Aynsley Lister

Sat 29

Logicaltramp

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

INFORMATION

Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Friday 16 February.

Prior to this date Stables Friends have priority.

63

The Stables… available for hire!

The Stables is a world class music and entertainment venue offering accessible and cost-effective solutions for a wide range of events – from conferences, meetings, away-days, car and product launches to wedding receptions, charity galas, graduation ceremonies, private dining and much more besides.

Located close to the M1 and Milton Keynes station, The Stables offers free car parking, a range of flexible indoor & outdoor spaces, good accessibility, catering and free Wi-Fi – all supported by our experienced event and technical teams.

“MKu3a wanted somewhere special to celebrate its 35th anniversary.

A special day made possible by the support, professional advice and help from wonderful staff and volunteers.”

Lynne Button, Chair, MKu3a

“The Stables team bent over backwards to accommodate our needs and support for our annual employee conference. I couldn’t ask for a better team and wouldn’t hesitate to use The Stables again.” reachmarketing.co.uk 37749 01/24

Fairhive Homes

For further details please contact the Development Office on 01908 280816 or development@stables.org

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800