The Stables Theatre: What's On December 2019 - March 2020

The Laine Dankworth Centre | Wavendon | Milton Keynes

Issue 75 | December 2019 - March 2020 Loremipsum

world class music & entertainment

Supported using public funding by

box office 01908 280800 www.stables.org

Issue 75 Dec - Mar 2020 SEPTEMBER

It’s time to celebrate!

2020 marks 50 years since The Stables opened its doors.

Our vision to engage the widest range of people with music in all its diversity lies at the heart of our programme of performances and participation.

By establishing a registered charity, our founders Sir John Dankworth and Dame Cleo Laine imbued The Stables with a not-for-profit culture that enables us to invest in the development of emerging artists, new audiences and artistic adventures.

With the continued support of our artists and the extraordinary team of dedicated volunteers and staff that brings you more than 400 performances and 250 workshops and courses each year, we are inviting you to join us in celebrating The Stables at 50.

Throughout 2020 we’ll be presenting events and activities that mark this special year. Whether you are thinking of visiting us for the first-time or you are paying us a return visit, we promise you a warm welcome at The Stables.

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treat someone special – gift vouchers are available from the box office

Issue 75 DecSEPTEMBER - Mar 2020

front cover artists contents JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM December January February March

STAGE 2

December - March

4 - 13 14 - 17 18 - 25 25 - 34 35 - 44

LEARN & TAKE PART December - March

45 - 54

CafĂŠ in 2 And not forgetting Also on sale Booking information Diary

55 57 58 - 59 60 - 61 62 - 63

Cleveland Watkiss Friday 31 January

page 17

Matt Cardle

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

New shows which are open for public booking from Tuesday 12 November prior to which Stables Friends have priority.

Thursday 5 December page 7

Don Giovanni Friday 13 March page 28

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

This event takes place in Stage 2.

This event takes place in Mancini Forum.

Roswell Saturday 8 February page 39

email emailstables@stables.org stables@stables.org boxboxoffice office01908 01908280800 280800

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DECEMBER JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM 4

booking fees apply – please turn to page 60 for details.

Scamp Theatre present DECEMBER

THE SCARECROWS’ WEDDING based on the bestselling book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler Date: Tuesday 17 - Sunday 29 December

“ENCHANTING AND HILARIOUS.BAGS OF SHEER FAMILY FUN.” The Stage ****

“CHARMING AND CHEERFUL. THESE SCARECROWS WILL MAKE EVERY CHILD SMILE.”

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

The team behind Stick Man present the best wedding ever, the best wedding yet…

Daily Mail **** Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay are excellent scarecrows. Their wedding plans are all coming together until Harry leaves Betty’s side and the devilishly smooth Reginald Rake tries to take Harry’s place. Will Harry make it back in time to save their special day?

This heartwarming and award-winning adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book is bursting at the seams with Scamp Theatre’s inimitable style. It’s an epic love story that promises wit, drama and wedding bells! Packed with live music and laughter, this is one Christmas wedding you and your children will never forget!

DECEMBER

Running time: 55 minutes (no interval) Age recommendation: 3+ (but suitable for all)

Tue 17 Wed 18

11.30am 11.30am

1.30pm 1.30pm

Thu 19

11.30am

1.30pm

Fri 20

11.30am

1.30pm

Sat 21

11.30am

1.30pm

3.30pm

Sun 22

11.30am

1.30pm

3.30pm

Mon 23

11.30am

1.30pm

Tue 24

11.30am

1.30pm

Wed 25

No performances

Thu 26

No performances

Fri 27

11.30am

1.30pm *

Sat 28 Sun 29

11.30am 11.30am

1.30pm 1.30pm

BOOK FOR LUNCH

Ticket prices £15 £13 £52

Adults Children under 16 Family ticket (two adults, two children)

Carers accompanying disabled patrons Groups of 10+ Schools

£11.25 £12 £11

(one free teacher’s ticket for every 10 tickets booked)

Relaxed performance

3.30pm 3.30pm

£11

* R ELAXED PERFORMANCE ON FRIDAY 27 DECEMBER AT 1.30PM: This performance is designed for people who will benefit from a more relaxed environment, including those with an autism spectrum condition, sensory and communication disorders or a learning disability.

To make the most of your visit to The Stables, why not enjoy a familyfriendly lunch menu in Café in 2, our in-house restaurant? Advance booking is strongly advised – call the box office to reserve a table.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

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JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

DECEMBER

Les McKeown’s Bay City Rollers Sunday 1 December, 8pm £25

gift ideas Footpath of Fame – your chosen name or text engraved onto a brick and placed amongst many celebrities in our exclusive Footpath Name a Seat – a seat in the auditorium with your chosen name on it Gift Vouchers – treat someone to a great night of entertainment

Bay City Roller frontman Les McKeown tells the story of how five guys from Edinburgh became a worldwide pop sensation. Joined by his fourpiece band, Les performs songs that influenced the original group as they forged their way in the music business, as well as all the hits including Bye Bye Baby, Summer Love Sensation, I Only Want To Be With You and Shang A Lang.

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

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

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Merrill Osmond

18 Mar 2020

Maxwell String Quartet Monday 2 December, 8pm £17.50 & £15, free tickets available for 8-25 year-olds W.A. Mozart: String Quartet No.17 in B-flat major, K. 458 The Hunt Debussy: String Quartet in G minor, Op.10 Schubert: String Quartet No.14 in D minor, Death and the Maiden First prize and Audience prize winners at the 9th Trondheim International Chamber Music Competition 2017, and hailed as “brilliantly fresh, unexpected and exhilarating” by The Scottish Herald, the Maxwell String Quartet is now firmly established as one of Britain’s finest ensembles.

They perform regularly across the UK and abroad, at venues including London’s Wigmore Hall and Purcell Room. maxwellstringquartet.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Don Giovanni

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.

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buy any time – book your tickets online 24 hours a day

13 Mar 2020

CLASSICAL SUPPER AT THE STABLES Enjoy a two- or three-course pre-concert meal in Café in 2. Advance booking is strongly recommended – to reserve a table, please call the box office on 01908 280800.

Steeleye Span: 50th Anniversary Tour

Led by the iconic Maddy Prior, the seven-piece line-up will draw on the group’s incredible history to provide a night of favourites and surprises from down the decades. steeleyespan.org.uk

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

1969 saw the birth of a band that started out as an idea to electrify traditional music and went on to become one of the most enduring stories in the folk world. Fifty years on and Steeleye Span are celebrating this milestone with new album EST’D 1969 and a UK tour.

DECEMBER

Tuesday 3 & Wednesday 4 December, 8pm £30

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Fairport Convention

Matt Cardle

11 Feb 2020

No Jacket Required: Tribute to Phil Collins

Thursday 5 December, 8pm £30 & £25

Saturday 7 December, 8pm

LAST FEW TICKETS

£19.50

Matt Cardle is a multi-platinum-selling recording artist, Brit award nominee and award-winning West End actor. He returns to the stage for his new headline show, performing material from his four studio albums, some breathtaking covers and a few surprises along the way. mattcardlemusic.com

The UK’s top Phil Collins tribute are back! This stunning 11-piece band perform two hours of non-stop hits from Phil’s award-winning solo career, with a little Genesis thrown in for good measure. There’s something for everyone in this spectacular show which spans three decades of chart-topping success. A sell-out show every time they play here, so don’t miss out – book early! nojacketrequired.co.uk

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The Christians

27 Mar 2020

G2 Genesis

email stables@stables.org

22-23 Mar 2020

box office 01908 280800

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DECEMBER JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Woburn Sands Band: The Christmas Concert

STABLES

SCREENINGS

Sunday 8 December, 4pm £12; under-16s £5

NOW SHOWING

It’s A Wonderful Life U Tuesday 10 December, 8pm £11.50 & £9.50 (includes a glass of fizz, mulled wine or soft drink)

George Bailey (James Stewart), beset with many personal problems, attempts a Christmas time suicide before an angel intercedes and shows him what his hometown would be like without him. (130 mins)

The programme will run the gamut from big band sounds to classical, jazz to pop and arrangements of some of your best-loved and very seasonal melodies, all in one show. Come along to this early-evening event for some true family entertainment from your favourite local brass band, with soloists from the band featured in this, the 64th concert in the Drakeloe series.

Promoted by Woburn Sands Band

Nadiya Hussain: Finding My Voice

Cara Dillon Christmas Show

Monday 9 December, 8pm £25 Join TV presenter, cook and bestselling author Nadiya Hussain to celebrate the publication of her new book Finding My Voice as she considers her roles as mother, Muslim, working woman and celebrity in her own warm, honest and humorous way. The event will be followed by a book signing with Nadiya (copies of the book will be on sale on the night). nadiyahussain.com *Please note this is a fundraising event for The Stables Theatre LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Adventures of the Yorkshire Shepherdess: An Evening with Amanda Owen

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24 Mar 2020

Wednesday 11 December, 8pm £22.50 Cara Dillon, possessed of one of the most celebrated folk voices to have come out of Ireland, is touring her Christmas show Upon A Winter’s Night for the fourth year running. She will be joined by her wonderful band who weave Celtic and folk rhythms with reverent and atmospheric carols while Cara holds the darkness at bay with the purity of her voice. caradillon.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Lucy Ward

treat someone special – gift vouchers are available from the box office

1 Dec

NOW SHOWING

In a new strand in our programme, The Stables will be transformed into a cinema to screen four much-loved films between December and February.

With ample free parking, films starting at the advertised time, theatre-style seating and a range of pre-show eating options available on site, The Stables has everything you could want for a great night out at the movies!

It’s A Wonderful Life (U)

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

SCREENINGS

DECEMBER

STABLES

(130 minutes)

Tuesday 10 December, 8pm £11.50 & £9.50 (includes a glass of fizz, mulled wine or soft drink) George Bailey (James Stewart), beset with many personal problems, attempts a Christmas time suicide before an angel intercedes and shows him what his hometown would be like without him.

Blinded By The Light (12A)

(117 minutes)

Monday 27 January, 8pm

£8.50 & £6.50

Set in 1987, during the austere days of Thatcher’s Britain, Blinded By The Light is a joyous, coming-of-age story about a teenager who learns to live life, understand his family and find his own voice through the words and music of Bruce Springsteen.

Green Book (12A)

(130 minutes)

Monday 10 February, 8pm

£8.50 & £6.50

Set in America in 1962, Green Book tells the heart-warming true story of Tony Lip, a working-class Italian-American bouncer who takes on a job as a chauffeur for Dr. Don Shirley, a highly-educated African-American classical pianist.

Rocketman (15)

(121 minutes)

Monday 24 February, 8pm

£8.50 & £6.50

An epic musical fantasy about the uncensored human story of Sir Elton John’s breakthrough years, starring Taron Egerton, Jamie Bell, Richard Madden and Bryce Dallas Howard.

£1 off for under18s; all ticket prices include booking fees Look out for our programme of family films during February half-term. Turn to page 22 for more information.

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 in a relaxed, cabaret-style setting – the perfect way to start the day.

Paul Higgs: Shades of Miles Sunday 15 December, 11.30am £14 Ace jazz trumpeter Paul Higgs is renowned for his magical sound and exceptional skill. His great sensitivity, high energy and talent as a composer make him a superb proponent of Miles Davis’s music.

Dominic Alldis Trio: The Music of Jacques Loussier Sunday 16 February 2020 11.30am £14 The great jazz pianist Jacques Loussier sadly passed away in 2019. By way of tribute the Dominic Alldis Trio will be performing new jazz arrangements of classical themes that pay homage to his remarkable achievements.

The Dime Notes Sunday 22 March, 11.30am £14 The Dime Notes dig back into the blues-drenched sounds of clarinet-driven 1920’s New Orleans jazz, unearthing gems by musicians such as Jelly Roll Morton, Johnny Dodds and Red Nichols.

Joanna Eden: Sondheim & Me Sunday 19 April, 11.30am £15 Joanna’s latest show traces Sondheim’s work from West Side Story to Into the Woods, seeking to explore the jazzy side of Sondheim without losing the theatrical truth.

Doors open at 11am and before each concert you can enjoy a cup of coffee and a hot bacon roll, along with a full bar and snack bar service – the Sunday papers will be available too! After the music has finished our in-house restaurant Café in 2 will be serving a two- or three-course lunch (full menu details are available on www.stables.org – pre-booking strongly advised).

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booking fees apply – please turn to page 60 for details.

ENJZYOYSUNDAY

LA NG THAT NING FEELI MOR

Mostly Autumn

become a friend

Winners of best track (Sight of Day) and best female vocalist (Olivia Sparnenn-Josh) in the Classic Rock Awards 2017, Mostly Autumn have built their fan base the old-fashioned way by playing live at every opportunity. While they draw on influences from the golden age of 1970s rock, they have also developed their own sound and style. Tonight the band will be showcasing their latest album, White Rainbow. mostly-autumn.com

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Enjoy some great benefits including priority booking, discounted 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.

DECEMBER

Thursday 12 December, 8pm £17 in advance, £18 on the door

Join online at stables.org/support_us/Friends or call 01908 280800 for further information

Promoted by Mostly Autumn

Cleo’s Christmas Show

Dates: Friday 13 & Saturday 14 December, 8pm £32.50 & £30 Kick off the festive season in style and take your seat for Cleo’s annual Christmas celebration. She’s invited a host of friends and family to create a show packed with great music and seasonal fun, as well as some surprises along the way.

Already confirmed on the guest list are Kevin Whately, Lorna Dallas, Jacqui Dankworth, Emily Dankworth, Peter Fisher, Charlie Wood and the Woburn Sands Band. Be sure to join them! *Please note these are fundraising concerts for The Stables Theatre LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Syd Lawrence Orchestra

email stables@stables.org

24 Jan 2020

box office 01908 280800

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JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

DECEMBER

Brother Strut Tuesday 17 December, 8pm £25

Paul Higgs: Shades of Miles Sunday 15 December, 11.30am £14 Ace jazz trumpeter Paul Higgs is renowned for his magical sound and exceptional skill. His great sensitivity, high energy and talent as a composer make him a superb proponent of Miles Davis’s music.

Playing with Paul in this celebration of the great man are the outstanding trio of Chris Ingham (piano), George Double (drums) and Jerome Davies (bass). paulhiggs.co

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Dominic Alldis Trio

“You will wait a very long time indeed to see anything better, I can’t think who can top this,” said Blues and Soul magazine, awarding Brother Strut’s debut album an astonishing 10/10.

Taking their album on the road, three spectacular sell-out tours have followed in which the band have gained notoriety for their ‘barnstorming’ sets. Brother Strut’s passion for live music has endeared them to audiences who seek real music amid the music industry’s increasingly corporate soul. brotherstrut.com

16 Feb 2020

The Rhythm Kings

Tuesday 17 - Sunday 29 December see pages 4 & 5 for more information

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buy any time – book your tickets online 24 hours a day

17 Jan 2020

Bootleg Blondie

Wednesday 18 December, 8pm £15

Friday 20 December, 8pm £18

olibrownofficial.com

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Ben Poole & Stevie Nimmo

There aren’t many tribute bands that can say they’ve been endorsed by the original group, but Bootleg Blondie are one of them. They are the only Blondie tribute to play on some of the same stages as Debbie Harry and co., from the worldfamous CBGB’s in New York to the Isle of Wight Festival, Bootleg Blondie have earned their credentials on an international level. blondietributeband.co.uk

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Returning to his blues stomping ground, Oli Brown is preparing to release a new album, something his fans have been pleading for. Oli has been busy writing and preparing the record throughout 2019 and is now ready to tour the songs and take them out to an audience. This is an exclusive opportunity to hear some of the new album in a live setting before the official release.

DECEMBER

Oli Brown

16 Feb 2020

Toyah & Hazel O’Connor

17 Apr 2020

Sad Café Thursday 19 December, 8pm £18.50 Regarded by many as one of the best live bands of the 1980s, Sad Café are back.

Original members Ian Wilson, bassist Des Tong and drummer Dave Irving are joined by singer-songwriter Sue Quin, the exciting vocal talent of Barry James Thomas and lead guitarist Dave Day. With multiinstrumentalist Neil Shaw-Hulme and keyboard player Matt Steele completing the line-up, the band will be performing their catalogue of great songs including the unforgettable Every Day Hurts and My Oh My. sadcafe.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Merrill Osmond

18 Mar 202

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 • PMC • PRS for Music Foundation • The Wavendon Foundation

Thank you!

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

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The Rhythm Kings

All Star Tribute to The Flying Burrito Brothers: 50th Anniversary Concert

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

JANUARY

Friday 17 January, 8pm £25

Sunday 19 January, 8pm £24

Formed in 1996, The Rhythm Kings toured for 17 years, working with artists such as Mary Wilson, Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, Georgie Fame and Paul Carrack. They are still highly respected in their own right and with the help of new member Greg Harewood on bass, they have recently been wowing audiences with their bluesy, soulful take on classic songs and modern-day numbers. therhythmkingsuk.com

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Brother Strut

17 Dec 2019

8 Feb

16+

Tuesday 21 January, 8pm £25

Saturday 18 January, 8pm £15 Now established as a popular touring duo, Damian Wilson and Adam Wakeman are embarking on a UK tour. Featuring Damian on vocals and acoustic guitar and Adam on piano, vocals and acoustic guitar, they’ll perform songs from their individual back catalogues and artists they have worked with, along with tracks from their joint albums, all intertwined with stories and memories from their extensive touring careers. wilsonwakeman.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

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Los Pacaminos

Ed Byrne: If I’m Honest

Wilson & Wakeman

John Coghlan’s Quo

This is nothing less than a deep dive into the origins of contemporary legends such as The Eagles, their forebears The Byrds and their descendants The Flying Burrito Brothers, co-founded in 1969

by Gram Parsons. After resurrecting The Byrds, Parsons then formed The Flying Burrito Brothers in 1968. Vocalist Greg Harris joined the band in 1979. As well as Greg, tonight’s celebratory concert will feature guitarist Jeff Pevar, Richard Newman (bass) and Tony Morley (drums).

20 Jun

Ed Byrne presents his brand-new masterclass in observational comedy hot on the heels of his touring hit, Spoiler Alert! Join Ed as he takes a long, hard look at himself and tries to decide if he has any traits that are worth passing on to his children. A household TV name, Ed has appeared on Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week and QI in the past 12 months. edbyrne.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Simon Brodkin

treat someone special – gift vouchers are available from the box office

20 Feb

Cregan & Co

Syd Lawrence Orchestra: Live & Swinging

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Sad Café

19 Dec 2019

Friday 24 January, 8pm £23.50 & £21.50

The ‘Best Big Band in the Land’ are back with an explosive new show. Directed by Chris Dean, Live & Swinging is a mesmerizing performance packed with all your big band favourites, featuring the music of Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and many more. syd-lawrence-orchestra.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Ronnie Scott’s All Stars Band

Simply reRed

Back to Bacharach

Thursday 23 January, 8pm £21

Saturday 25 January, 8pm £24

With more than 30 Top 40 singles and several of the bestselling albums of the past four decades to choose from, this world-class, seven-piece band recreate every slick groove and perfect melody from Mick Hucknall’s remarkable global career. The authenticity and style are guaranteed to keep you singing and dancing all night. simplyrered.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

The Christians

27 Mar

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Jim Cregan was Rod Stewart’s musical director for 19 years.

During that time Jim co-wrote the hits, recorded the albums and toured the world with Rod – writing and performing You’re In My Heart, I Was Only Joking, Baby Jane, Blondes Have More Fun, D’Ya Think I’m Sexy and many more. Now he is taking to the road to present the very best of Rod Stewart – the songs that formed the soundtrack to our lives for more than 30 years. creganandco.com

JANUARY

Wednesday 22 January, 8pm £19.50

29 Mar

Back to Bacharach celebrates the music of Burt Bacharach, one of the most accomplished popular composers of the 20th century who, together with Hal David, penned countless memorable hits. This exciting production is performed by three of the West End’s finest singers, accompanied by a 10-piece band. Songs featured in the show include Alfie, Anyone Who Had A Heart, Arthur’s Theme, I Say A Little Prayer For You and Magic Moments. back-to-bacharach.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Nights on Broadway

email stables@stables.org

22 Feb

box office 01908 280800

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JANUARY JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Sax Appeal

Deborah Bonham

Sunday 26 January, 8pm £17

Tuesday 28 January, 8pm £14.50

Featuring five of the UK’s top saxophonists and a world-class rhythm section, Sax Appeal are the multi-award-winning band led by Derek Nash. Derek has been a member of the Jools Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra since 2004 and has led Sax Appeal for more than 40 years. Expect driving swing, Blue Note-style Ellington sweetness, pure danceable Brazilian Latin, Brecker Brothers-style fusion and biting Sanborn-style funk from a stellar line-up. saxappeal.co.uk

Over the course of an impressive career, Deborah Bonham has established herself as one of the finest blues rock vocalists the UK has produced. A string of critically acclaimed original album releases, captivating standing ovation concert performances at the Royal Albert Hall, London Palladium, and on the recent USA Amphitheatre Tour with Paul Rodgers, Jeff Beck and Ann Wilson of Heart, have kept her at the very forefront of the international press and music scene. deborahbonham.com

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Oli Brown

Yolanda Brown

29 Apr

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18 Dec 2019

STABLES

SCREENINGS NOW SHOWING

Blinded By The Light 12A Monday 27 January, 8pm £8.50 & £6.50 (Includes booking fee) Set in 1987, during the austere days of Thatcher’s Britain, ‘Blinded

By The Light’ is a joyous, comingof-age story about a teenager who learns to live life, understand his family and find his own voice through the words and music of Bruce Springsteen. (117 minutes)

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booking fees apply – please turn to page 60 for details.

27 January-2 February 2020 The Stables is proud to support Independent Venues Week 2020 Jan Mon 27 Tue 28 Thu 30 Fri 31 Fri 31

Blinded By The Light (12A) Deborah Bonham Remi Harris Cleveland Watkiss The Local Honeys

Feb Sat 1 Sat 1

Martyn Joseph Megan Dixon-Hood independentvenueweek.com

Thursday 30 January, 8pm £15

This extraordinary band, dubbed the Definitive Pink Floyd Experience, present a complete performance of The Wall as well as the whole range of classic Pink Floyd from Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here and much more.

With an impressive laser light show, this exciting production faithfully recreates the atmosphere, visual magnitude and musical excellence of Pink Floyd live on stage. thinkfloyd.net

Remi Harris is a guitarist whose unique style draws inspiration from artists such as Django Reinhardt, Jimi Hendrix, Wes Montgomery and Led Zeppelin. Ranging from the acoustic jazz, swing and gypsy jazz of the 1940s to the psychedelic rock and blues of the 60s and 70s, Light & Shade is his most diverse and eclectic show to date. Remi performs on a variety of acoustic guitars, electric guitars and a ukulele, accompanied by double and electric bass, drum kit and percussion. remiharris.com

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G2 Genesis

22 - 23 May

Nicolas Meier World Group

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Remi Harris: Light & Shade

Wednesday 29 January, 8pm £25

JANUARY

Think Floyd

3 Dec 2019

Cleveland Watkiss: The Great Jamaican Songbook Friday 31 January, 8pm £17.50 Renowned jazz singer Cleveland Watkiss presents a historical project that brings to life some of the greatest songs ever written by Jamaican legends such as Gregory Isaacs, Dennis Brown and Delroy Wilson.

Cleveland will delve into Jamaica’s long history of pioneering musical sounds from mento, ska, reggae, dub, roots and way beyond.

He’ll also celebrate many of its internationally acclaimed musicians, who emerged from the great musical institution The Alpha Boys School, under the tutelage of Sister Mary Ignatius Davis. Joining Cleveland will be fellow UK greats Ray Carless (saxes), Orphy Robinson (keys/ percussion), Byron Wallen (trumpet), Delroy Murray (bass), Brandon Murray (guitars), Dan Barnett (drums) and Phil Ramocon (keys). clevelandwatkiss.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Olcay Bayir

PRE-CONCERT TALK: 7.15PM

9 Feb

Free to ticket holders, but must be booked in advance Join Cleveland as he reflects on his personal musical influence, his career in music and the role and influences of Jamaican music on his own music making and the wider British music scene.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

17

FEBRUARY JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Martyn Joseph

John Shuttleworth’s Back

Saturday 1 February, 8pm £19

Tuesday 4 February, 8pm £18.50

Martyn Joseph is a unique and mind-blowing artist.

Take everything you think you know about singersongwriters… and rip it up. For one man and a guitar, he creates a performance with a huge, farreaching sound that’s energetic, compelling and passionate. Be it to 200 people or 20,000, he blows the crowd away night after night. martynjoseph.net

Years of strenuous DIY, not to mention playing his organ while perched on a multi-pack of Diet Sprite with no lumber support, have taken their toll.

But – ever the trouper – John returns to regale audiences with an evening of his classic songs (plus new ones and hilarious ‘back’ stories), pausing only to reapply his deep heat rub! shuttleworths.co.uk

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Choice Grenfell

Lucy Ward

1 Dec 2019

with Suzanna Walters and Andrew Brewis Wednesday 5 February, 8pm £17.50 & £16 In these uncertain times comes a wonderful evening of warmth, wit and gentle humour.

The show features the best of Joyce Grenfell’s hilarious songs and monologues including Stately As A Galleon and Free Activity Period.

Joyce is our guide for a delightful delve into some of her most endearing characters, ably accompanied by her trusted pianist William Blezard.

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Stay connected!

18

buy any time – book your tickets online 24 hours a day

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Cleo’s Christmas Show

13 & 14 Dec 2019

The Stables at 50 Event

FEBRUARY

BBC Big Band: Swing Legends Thursday 6 February, 8pm £35 & £32.50

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Join the internationally renowned BBC Big Band for an evening of world-class big band music inspired by the 20th century’s finest composers.

The music of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Artie Shaw, Tommy Dorsey and Benny Goodman defined a golden age of jazz. Sit back and enjoy the tunes that made them stars, such as One O’Clock Jump, Take the ‘A’ Train, Begin the Beguine, Sing, Sing, Sing and Opus One. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of The Stables, the orchestra also take a special look at the music of Sir John Dankworth – including some of his best known big band numbers, such as African Waltz, Experiments With Mice and Tomorrow’s World. bigbandspecial.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

* Please note this is a fundraising event for The Stables Theatre

Fascinating Aïda Friday 7 February, 8pm

Ronnie Scott’s All Star Band

16+ LAST FEW TICKETS

£32.50 & £30

Los Pacaminos

featuring Paul Young Saturday 8 February, 8pm £22.50

They’re back at last! Dillie Keane, Adèle Anderson and Liza Pulman are heading out on tour with a selection of old favourites, songs you haven’t heard before and some you wish you’d never heard in the first place. The songs are hilarious and topical, the glamour is unstoppable. fascinatingaida.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Choice Grenfell

29 Mar

5 Feb

One of the UK’s most popular touring bands, Los Pacaminos play the very best in Tex Mex border music from The Texas Tornadoes and Ry Cooder to Los Lobos and even Roy Orbsion.

This is a tequila-fuelled Tex Mex party, as each venue becomes the perfect cantina setting for a great night’s rocking with the cactus-sharp, tequila-filled, Stetson-wearing magnificent six, Los Pacaminos! lospacaminos.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

All Star Tribute To The Flying Burrito Brothers

email stables@stables.org

19 Jan

box office 01908 280800

19

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

FEBRUARY

Olcay Bayir: Dream for Anatolia Sunday 9 February £15 Singer-songwriter Olcay Bayir takes us on a journey into the heart of Anatolia in Turkey. Using well-known folk songs and original compositions from her highly-praised album Rüya (Dream), and with a velveteen voice and band of talented musicians, Olcay leads us through the many cultures found in a country that we may have visited for a holiday and whose food we all love, but that often remains a mystery, even mysterious.

The magnificent city of Istanbul, with its Ottoman court culture and cosmopolitan history, is a starting point. From there the road heads east and south. Reaching the Mediterranean and passing through areas once populated by Armenians, Olcay finally arrives at Gaziantep, her birthplace, to explore her own Kurdish and Alevi roots. olcaybayir.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Cleveland Watkiss

MEAL DEAL

31 Jan

For an additional £20 per head, you can enjoy A Taste of the Mediterranean (vegetarian options available) served in Café in 2.

Book in advance through the box office.

STABLES

SCREENINGS NOW SHOWING

Green Book 12A Monday 10 February, 8pm £8.50 & £6.50 (Includes booking fee) Set in America in 1962, Green Book tells the heart-warming true story of Tony Lip, a working-class Italian-American bouncer who takes on a job as a chauffeur for Dr. Don Shirley, a highly-educated African-American classical pianist.

(130 mins)

Fairport Convention

+ support from Smith & Brewer Tuesday 11 February, 8pm £28 Fairport Convention have been entertaining music lovers for more than 50 years. During that time the band that launched British folk-rock has seen many changes, but one thing has remained the same – Fairport’s passion for performance.

Tonight’s concert will present a mix of longestablished Fairport favourites and some surprises from albums old and new. fairportconvention.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Lindisfarne

20

treat someone special – gift vouchers are available from the box office

8 May

Mark Thomas: 50 Things About Us

16+

Roy Orbison & the Traveling Wilburys Experience

In his new show, Mark Thomas combines his trademark mix of storytelling, standup, mischief and extensively researched material to examine how we have come to inhabit this divided wasteland that some of us call the United Kingdom. Mark picks through the myths, facts and figures of our national identities to ask who do we think we are?

And how we have so much feeling for such a hollow land. markthomasinfo.co.uk

This fantastic show celebrates the music of 1980s super-group The Traveling Wilburys. The Wilburys never toured, perhaps due to the untimely death of Roy Orbison in 1988, and so their fans never got to see them perform live. With that in mind, Paul Hopkins has joined up with four talented singers and musicians who together have formed this incredible tribute show. travelingwilburystribute.co.uk

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Cregan & Co

Jeremy Vine

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22 Jan

28 Feb

The Ultimate Classic Rock Show Thursday 13 February, 8pm £22.50 Dust off your air guitars for The Ultimate Rock Show, an evening of the very best classic rock anthems from legends past and present.

You’ll be treated to two hours of classic rock songs, from legendary artists such as Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin, Queen, Pink Floyd, The Eagles and Jimi Hendrix. The concert features musicians and singers who have a wealth of experience in the music industry. Together they recreate the biggest and best classic rock anthems with outstanding energy and stunning accuracy. ultimateclassicrockshow.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

The Counterfeit Stones

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Friday 14 & Saturday 15 February, 8pm £19.50

FEBRUARY

Wednesday 12 February, 8pm £17.50

27 Feb

Ben Poole & Stevie Nimmo Sunday 16 February, 8pm £16.50

An unmissable double bill! Blues guitarist Ben Poole is being described as one the most exciting young artists to come out of the UK for a long time. His live shows are energetic and impassioned, giving the audience just what they want. Having toured extensively with the critically acclaimed Nimmo Brothers over the past few years, Stevie Nimmo is now in full stride with his full-on, electric, no-holds-barred trio format. benpooleband.com stevienimmo.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Zoë Schwarz Blue Commotion

email stables@stables.org

7 Dec 2019

box office 01908 280800

21

FEBRUARY JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

HALF-TERM FILMS

FOR ALL THE FAMILY

STABLES

SCREENINGS NOW SHOWING

Pay a visit to Milton Keynes’ newest cinema during February half-term and catch some of the greatest family films of recent years.

With ample free parking, films starting at the advertised time, theatre-style seating and a range of eating and drinking options available on site, The Stables has everything you could want for a great movie experience!

The Greatest Showman (PG)

Toy Story 4

The Lion King

(U)

(PG)

(105 minutes)

(100 minutes)

(118 minutes)

Monday 17 February, 11.30am Tuesday 18 February, 2.30pm

Monday 17 February, 2.30pm Tuesday 18 February, 11.30am

Thursday 20 February, 2.30pm

Hugh Jackman leads an all-star cast in this bold and original musical filled with infectious showstopping performances that will bring you to your feet time and time again.

Inspired by the story of P.T. Barnum (Jackman), the film follows the visionary who rose from nothing to create a mesmerizing spectacle.

When Bonnie adds a reluctant new toy called Forky to her room, a road trip adventure alongside old and new friends will show Woody how big the world can be for a toy.

Heartwarming, funny, and beautifully animated, Toy Story 4 manages the unlikely feat of extending – and perhaps concluding –a practically perfect animated saga.

Lions rule the African savanna in The Lion King, which welcomes Donald Glover (Atlanta, Solo: A Star Wars Story) as future king Simba and Beyonce Knowles-Carter (Dreamgirls) as Simba’s friend-turned-love interest Nala.

Tickets £5 (raked seating), £3 (flat seating), under-18s £4 and £2. All prices include booking fee

GRAB A BITE 22

Grab a bite to eat before or after the show Café in 2, The Stables’ in-house restaurant, will be running a family-friendly lunchtime menu on 17, 18 and 20 February. Advance booking is advised – call the box office on 01908 280800 to reserve a table. A range of snacks and drinks will also be available in the foyer.

booking fees apply – please turn to page 60 for details.

Friday 21 February, 2pm £12 adults & £10 children

For decades Algorisms’ band members have been helping to develop the sound of British jazz and pop working with the likes of JTQ, Vibraphonic, Incognito, Courtney Pine, Basement Jaxx, Massive Attack and many more.

The band aims to deliver the same exceptional levels of performance that have defined these acts, while at the same time breaking new ground with eclectic and contemporary arrangements of classic jazz and pop. algorisms.co.uk

Louis Pearl has been thrilling audiences worldwide for more than 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles.

Louis explores the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding tricks to keep everyone mesmerized. amazingbubbleman.com

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Cleveland Watkiss

Simon Brodkin: 100% Simon Brodkin

31 Jan

16+

Thursday 20 February, 8pm £20 Following three hugely successful BBC series as Lee Nelson, multiple sell-out tours and various court appearances following worldfamous stunts on Theresa May, Sepp Blatter, Donald Trump and Kanye West, the award-winning comedian unleashes his funniest creation yet… himself!

Fresh from a critically acclaimed run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Simon takes his debut stand-up show on a nationwide tour.

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Jonny Awsum

18 Apr

The Scarecrows’ Wedding

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

The Amazing Bubble Man

Wednesday 19 February, 8pm £15

FEBRUARY

Algorisms

17 - 29 Dec 2019

The Mods Band Friday 21 February, 8pm £18.50

All your favourite 1960 sounds are here: The Small Faces, The Kinks, The Who, The Animals, The Rolling Stones, Nashville Teens, The Yardbirds, The Doors, Spencer Davis and Desmond Dekker to name a few. Come and experience a real celebration of the best music from the 1960s, as The Mods Band transports you back to those magical times. Maximum entertainment guaranteed! themodsband.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

The Counterfeit Stones

email stables@stables.org

27 Feb

box office 01908 280800

23

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

FEBRUARY

Nights On Broadway: The Bee Gees Story

Red Priest: Truly Madly Baroque Tuesday 25 February, 8pm £18.50, under-25s £7.50

Saturday 22 February, 8pm £23 Nights On Broadway: The Bee Gees Story celebrates the timeless music of the Bee Gees. The ‘Brothers’ take you on a musical journey through all your favourite songs, including Night Fever, Stayin’ Alive, More Than A Woman, You Should Be Dancing, Jive Talkin’ and many more! nightsonbroadway.net LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Cregan & Co

22 Jan

STABLES

SCREENINGS NOW SHOWING

Rocketman 15 Monday 24 February, 8pm £8.50 & £6.50 (includes booking fee)

An epic musical fantasy about the uncensored human story of Sir Elton John’s breakthrough years, starring Taron Egerton, Jamie Bell, Richard Madden and Bryce Dallas Howard.

(121 mins)

24

buy any time – book your tickets online 24 hours a day

After their recent foray into the world of gypsy music with their classical-chart-topping Baroque Bohemians project, Red Priest return to their origins with a stunning concert of baroque classics, arranged and performed with their trademark energy, virtuosity and (in the best baroque sense) madness! The programme includes works by Bach, Vivaldi and Albinoni. redpriest.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Don Giovanni

Phil Wang

13 Mar

16+

Wednesday 26 February, 8pm £15 Fresh from a sell-out Edinburgh Fringe run, Phil ‘Philly Philly Wang Wang’ Wang is back on tour with his latest show. With his unique brand of smart and silly, Phil has made a name for himself (that name being Phil Wang) exploring sex, romance, politics and his mixed British-Malaysian heritage.

This one is about morality and the modern sense of self. Swell! philwang.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Jonny Awsum

18 Apr

The Strange Doors

Thursday 27 February, 8pm £25

Saturday 29 February, 8pm £16

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The Cavern Beatles

strangedoors.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

18 Apr

Jeremy Vine: What The Hell Is Going On? Friday 28 February, 8pm £17.50 Over the course of a 30-year career at the BBC, Jeremy Vine has presented Newsnight, Panorama, Crimewatch, Eggheads and Points of View – as well as his daily Jeremy Vine Show on BBC Radio 2. Increasingly he finds himself asking “What the hell is going on?” as information and misinformation get mixed together and the sheer volume of news that gets thrown at us all becomes mind-blowing. Get ready to laugh and cry as Jeremy tries to make sense of a world that increasingly makes no sense at all.

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Mark Thomas

The music of The Doors continues to reach into souls in a way no other music can, whether it be the moving intrigue of Riders On The Storm, the expansive energy of L.A. Woman or the sheer exuberance of the stand-out rock classic Light My Fire. With their authentic instruments and sets crafted through years of experience, The Strange Doors invite audiences to immerse themselves in the vibe and to move to the hypnotic beat.

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

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 copy-rock. Packed with big hits, retro fashion, vintage guitars and a huge dollop of Spinal Tap humour, it’s Satis-fiction guaranteed. thecounterfeitstones.com

FEB / MAR

The Counterfeit Stones

12 Feb

Are You Experienced?

Tribute to Jimi Hendrix

13 June

The Jive Aces Big Beat Revue Sunday 1 March, 8pm £22 & £20 Britain’s Got Talent semifinalists The Jive Aces explode onto the stage in their trademark yellow suits and vintage style for their Big Beat Revue show. Featuring special guests Miss Kara Lane, the songstress from down under, and blonde bombshell Lottie B, along with the hot licks of jazz trumpeter Antonio Socci and the smooth accordion of Grazia Bevilacqua, the show is an exciting mix of hot jive, swinging rhythms, blues and classic rock’n’roll. jiveaces.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

The Dime Notes

email stables@stables.org

22 Mar

box office 01908 280800

25

Albert Lee

Tuesday 3 March, 8pm £21.50

Friday 6 March, 8pm £26

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

MARCH

The Fureys

Legends of Irish music and song The Fureys, renowned for their many hits including I Will Love You, When You Were Sweet 16, The Green Fields Of France, The Old Man and Red Rose Café, make a welcome return to The Stables.

The Fureys are responsible for some of the most stirring music ever to capture the public imagination. thefureys.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

The Dublin Legends

14 May

An Audience With presents

Havana Nights starring Graziano Di Prima Thursday 5 March, 7.30pm £30 An all-new show brings an exciting mix of Latin dances with individual performances from Graziano and Giada as well as entertaining group numbers with their supporting dancers. This fastpaced production promises to be fresh and innovative with amazing routines to dazzle and wow you. Italian Latin champion Graziano Di Prima has established himself as a favourite on the hit BBC show Strictly Come Dancing.

Pre-show meet and greet: £60 (includes a ticket for the show; only bookable in person or by phone) Promoted by An Audience With

26

Double Grammy award-winner Albert Lee returns to the UK, this time accompanied by his great Electric Band.

Undoubtedly one of the world’s finest guitarists, Albert is also an accomplished piano player and has a fine singing voice that can ‘tear it up’ rock’n’roll style. He has played on countless sessions worldwide and has appeared and recorded with the likes of Glen Campbell, Dave Edmunds and Joe Cocker. albertleeofficial.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Richard Digance

Sam Avery: Toddlergedon

19 Mar

16+

Saturday 7 March, 8pm £18 Join awardwinning comedian and bestselling author Sam Avery (aka The Learner Parent) for an evening of hilarious stand-up, brand-new for 2020. How do you raise a toddler with more attitude than Kanye West?

Can you negotiate effectively with a pre-schooler who knows you’re clueless? And will any of us survive Toddlergeddon? thelearnerparent.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

The New Scummy Mummies Show

treat someone special – gift vouchers are available from the box office

31 Mar

British Film Institute Study Days

Tuesday 10 March, 10am-3pm Using the BFI’s DVD of French short films (Cine-Minis) among others, the focus will be on developing an interactive way of learning through cinematographic techniques, while learning more about film language and consolidating prior knowledge of French vocabulary and grammar. The afternoon will comprise an introduced screening of a suitable feature film for this age group. The event will be conducted predominantly in French and students will be encouraged to speak in the target language. Students should be in their second to third year of studying French in order to get the most benefit from this event.

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Ciné-minis pour les jeunes: a KS3 French Study Day

MARCH

Film is an exciting medium which opens a window to new language and cultural practices. In a new partnership with the British Film Institute, we are excited to offer two innovative study days for children studying French or Spanish.

The day will be led by Nicole Valencia, former teacher of French at Southend High School for Girls, and primary languages coordinator in Southend-on-Sea.

Cine espãnol para jóvenes: a KS3 Spanish Study Day Wednesday 11 March, 10am-3pm Focusing on a suitable selection of short films, such as Emperrado (2009), La Leyenda del Espantapájaros (2205) and La Huida (2011), the interactive morning session will highlight themes of interest to young people while offering glimpses into Spanish life and culture. There will be interactive activities in the target language and vocabulary extension related to the films. There are opportunities for students to learn more about film language and also to act out small dramas on stage which will help consolidate learning. The afternoon comprises an introduced screening of the popular feature film, Zipi y Zape y el club de la canica (2013).

The day will be led by Nicola Fahidi, Head of MFL, Immanuel College, Bushey

Booking information These events are intended for teachers and students only.

Tickets £10 per student; £1 per adult accompanying every 5 students; for any additional adult the student rate applies. £40 for teachers attending without students. Discounts are available to Buckinghamshire schools and Milton Keynes schools serving communities experiencing disadvantage. Please contact BFI on 020 7815 1329 or education@stables.org / 01908 280821 to find out more.

To book tickets call The Stables Box Office on 01908 280800.

Please refer to BFI Education frequently asked questions before contacting our Education team, as these may help answer your queries.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

27

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

MARCH

Ivo Graham: The Game Of Life

Sound of Springsteen 16+

Wednesday 11 March, 8pm £13

Thursday 12 March, 8pm £22.50

The time for faff is over: has Big Daddy Graham got the skillz (anecdotes/banter/ topical asides) to pay da billz (gas/ water/electric)? More hilariously anxious blather from one of the most hilariously anxious blatherers in the business.

Recently nominated for Dave’s Edinburgh Comedy Award following a sell-out run at the 2019 Fringe Festival, Ivo has also been spotted on Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, Live from the BBC and 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown. ivograham.com

Formed in late 2017 each member of this eight-piece band was carefully chosen by the producer for their unique abilities as a performer and an undeniable passion for the music of The Boss. Although fairly new the band are already showing signs of a big and successful career, quickly gathering online momentum even before performing their first date. sospringsteen.co.uk

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Simon Brodkin

20 Feb

The Counterfeit Stones

27 Feb

Merry Opera presents

Don Giovanni by W.A. Mozart (sung in English) Friday 13 March, 8pm £21.50 & £19.50 It’s Judgement Day for Don Giovanni, the world’s greatest lover. A supernatural comedy-thriller occurring in breakneck real time, the story begins with murder and ends with a hellish sentence passed on the legendary seducer – it’s the epic downfall of a man who always knows what we need, always makes us happy, but eventually realises he is out of time.

Polarising audiences for centuries, startlingly modern yet a dinosaur, can Don Giovanni still make us love him as he hurtles through his final hours? merryopera.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Maxwell String Quartet

28

booking fees apply – please turn to page 60 for details.

2 Dec 2019

Best of Queen

Aly Bain & Phil Cunningham

featuring The Bohemians

Monday 16 March, 8pm £17.50

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Feast of Fiddles

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Cavern Beatles

Having toured together since 1986 to packed concert halls all over the world, Aly and Phil continue to charm audiences with their stunning music. Aly was a founder member of the Boys of the Lough and his passionate fiddle playing has found its way onto recordings by the likes of Eddi Reader and Richard Thompson. Accordion player Phil has been named as one of Scotland’s 25 most influential people and his mastery of the instrument has led to him working with Mark Knopfler, James Taylor and Midge Ure. philandaly.com

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

The Bohemians have been paying homage to the world’s most theatrical rock band since 1996.

Frontman and pianist Rob Comber’s outrageous stage antics and personality makes him perfect to play an uncannily realistic ‘Freddie’.

Rob is joined on stage by a talented band that includes Christopher Gregory, who brings all the electric guitar virtuosity required to play a very convincing Brian May. Their attention to detail is truly impressive! thebohemians.com

MARCH

Saturday 14 March, 8pm £25

7 Apr

18 Apr

Ceilidh Experience Concert & Dance Sunday 15 March, 7.30pm £7

like us on facebook /TheStablesMK

follow us on twitter @stablesMK

follow us on instagram stablesMK Come along and join in the dancing as participants from the Ceilidh Experience course present their new bands created especially for tonight and play a feast of traditional tunes for dancers and folk fans of all ages. Our guest dance caller will guide you through the steps, in what promises to be a fun evening of dance and music. No previous Ceilidh dance experience needed! Suitable for adults and older children.

Stay connected!

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

29

Ensemble 360 and narrator Polly Ives present

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

MARCH

Sir Scallywag & The Battle Of Stinky Bottom

Tuesday 17 March, 1pm (concert lasts approximately 50 minutes) £7.50 (free teachers ticket with every 10 seats booked) Schools/family concert for ages 3 to 7 /Foundation /Key Stage 1

“When King Colin sets his sights on finding the famous Golden Sausage, there’s only ONE person for the job, Sir Scallywag! But will the six-year-old knight be mighty enough to defeat the filthy trolls and win the Stinkiest Battle Ever?”

Join our quintet of musicians from Ensemble 360 and narrator Polly Ives for a children’s concert packed full of highly engaging live classical music, vivid story-telling, bright illustrations from the book and lots of audience participation. Music in the Round’s Children’s Composer in Residence Paul Rissmann has written music set to the brilliant story written by Giles Andreae and illustrated by Korky Paul (Penguin, 2015). There’ll also be an opportunity to meet the musicians in the foyer after the concert.

Learn the songs and download the free teachers pack before the concert. The comprehensive crosscurricular digital resources are ideal for any early years setting looking to develop their music-making and enrich their learning. More information available at musicintheround.co.uk Wednesday 22 Jan 4.30-6pm: free teachers/educators INSET session for participating groups – contact education@stables.org for more information

Ensemble 360 Tuesday 17 March, 8pm £17.50 & £15 Beethoven: Quintet for piano and wind in E flat, Op.16 Farrenc: Sextet in C minor, Op.40 Mozart: Quintet for piano and wind in E flat, K.452 Celebrate Beethoven’s 250th anniversary year with some of the country’s finest musicians and what are widely considered to be some of the greatest works in the wind repertoire. It was Beethoven’s Quintet that inspired Louise Farrenc to write her Sextet. A brilliant 19th century composer, she is now starting to achieve the recognition her outstanding music deserves. maxwellstringquartet.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Maxwell String Quartet

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.

30

buy any time – book your tickets online 24 hours a day

2 Dec 2019

CLASSICAL SUPPER AT THE STABLES Enjoy a two or three-course pre-concert meal in Café in 2. Advance booking is strongly recommended – to reserve a table, please call the box office on 01908 280800.

Merrill Osmond

An Evening with Eric & Ern

strarring Ian Ashpitel and Jonty Stephens

Wednesday 18 March, 8pm £29.50 & £27.50

Les McKeown’s Bay City Rollers

1 Dec 2019

ericandlittleern.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Choice Grenfell

5 Feb

Suzi Ruffell: Dance Like Everyone’s Watching

Richard Digance Thursday 19 March, 8pm £17.50

16+

Saturday 21 March, 8pm £14

Bafta-nominated Richard Digance embarks on his one-man show in 2020, negotiating motorway closures and diversions to play his favourite venues around Britain. He’ll perform some new tunes along with his popular nostalgic songs that promise the kind of audience participation he has made his own. richarddigance.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Albert Lee

A show for all the family from 8 to 108! A brilliant homage crammed full of those famous comedy sketches, muchloved Morecambe & Wise routines and songs and, of course, a musical guest!

Be taken back to a world of those fantastic Christmas specials.

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

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Friday 20 March, 8pm £22.50

MARCH

Merrill Osmond is the lead singer of the world-famous Osmond family. He is also an established solo artist, singing lead vocals on no fewer than 27 gold records. Tonight, Merrill will be performing all The Osmonds’ greatest hits as well as talking about his experiences of growing up with one of the world’s biggest bands and revealing some of the famous names he has met along the way. merrillosmond.com

6 Mar

Suzi Ruffell has made a name for herself by turning tragedy and anxiety into big laughs. This year she is actually happy. This show answers the question: are all stand-ups at their best when they are miserable? Fingers crossed no! The last 12 months have been massive for Suzi: a smash hit UK tour, heaps of television appearances including Live At The Apollo, Hypothetical and 8 Out Of 10 Cats – plus she has learnt how to make the perfect lemon cake. suziruffell.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Jen Brister

email stables@stables.org

25 Mar

box office 01908 280800

31

MARCH JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

Adventures of the Yorkshire Shepherdess: An Evening with Amanda Owen Tuesday 24 March, 8pm £17.50

The Dime Notes Sunday 22 March, 11.30am £14 Small band, huge swing!

The Dime Notes dig back into the bluesdrenched sounds of clarinet-driven 1920’s New Orleans jazz, unearthing a repertoire of stomps, blues standards and forgotten gems of the era from musicians such as Jelly Roll Morton, Johnny Dodds and Red Nichols. thedimenotes.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Joanna Eden

19 Apr

Monday 23 March, 8pm £15

9 Dec 2019

Limehouse Lizzy

Amy Wadge has been performing and releasing music since leaving the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama more than 20 years ago. She won a Grammy in 2016 for her co-write of Ed Sheeran’s worldwide hit Thinking Out Loud. Amy has recently written and recorded six original songs for the hit BBC Wales drama, Keeping Faith. amywadge.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

32

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Nadiya Hussain

Amy Wadge

Nell Bryden

Yorkshire shepherdess Amanda Owen shares heartwarming tales and honest anecdotes from her remarkable life in North Yorkshire.

You’ll hear how Amanda juggles life as a shepherdess, home renovator and mother to nine children with that as a bestselling author. Funny, charming and filled with unforgettable characters, Adventures of the Yorkshire Shepherdess will delight anyone who has dreamed of a new life in the country. yorkshireshepherdess.com

15 May

Wednesday 25 March, 8pm £21 Limehouse Lizzy continue to keep the spirit of Celtic rock icon Philip Lynott and his band Thin Lizzy alive and well.

Having added a tribute to exLizzy guitarist Gary Moore, the band return in 2020 with their most explosive show and critically acclaimed line-up yet. limehouselizzy.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

John Coghlan’s Quo

treat someone special – gift vouchers are available from the box office

20 Jun

Inspiring Music presents

Thursday 26 March, 7.30pm £10 (concessions £6)

Promoted by Inspiring Music Hub and Bedford Music Hub

T-Rextasy are now accepted as the world’s only official live tribute band dedicated to Marc Bolan and T.Rex, and the only band endorsed and approved by Marc’s family, estate and original T.Rex members. The band has been described by many as ‘beyond the boundaries of tribute’. If you want to know exactly what a Marc Bolan concert was like in the 1970s, this show is for you! trextasy.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

The Counterfeit Stones

27 Feb

Ronnie Scott’s All Star Band

The Christians Friday 27 March, 8pm £24

Sunday 29 March, 8pm £22.50 & £21

Renowned for an endless string of soulful yet socially aware hits including Forgotten Town, Ideal World, Born Again and Harvest For The World, The Christians enjoyed huge acclaim in the late 1980s and early 90s. Still headed by enigmatic lead singer Garry Christian, the band are enjoying a revival and are currently touring successfully in the UK and Europe. thechristianslive.co.uk

The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars take to the road to celebrate the Ronnie Scott’s story. Featuring classic music from many of the jazz greats, who have performed at the club along with tales of old Soho, miscreant musicians and police raids, the show is a glimpse into this unique world and its incredible history.

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Matt Cardle

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

This is the seventh year that Battle of the Bands will be hosted by The Stables. Every year Bedfordshire schools send their best bands to compete and become champions.

A popular local band will judge the event which is organised by Inspiring Music Hub and Bedford Music Hub and sponsored by local companies Marshall Amplification, Kawai Keyboards. Come and see the musical talent of the future!

Saturday 28 March, 8pm £25

MARCH

Bedfordshire Schools Battle of the Bands

T.Rextasy

5 Dec

BBC Big Band

email stables@stables.org

6 Feb

box office 01908 280800

33

Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM

MARCH

Monday 30 March, 8pm £20

34

Having temporarily put down their pens and picked up guitars, this crime-writing super-group – Mark Billingham, Val McDermid, Chris Brookmyre, Luca Veste, Doug Johnstone and Stuart Neville – happily murder muchloved songs by The Clash, Elvis Costello, Hank Williams, The Beatles and many others who are currently considering legal action. Between them, they have sold more than 20 million books worldwide and won every major crime-writing award going. Now they’re rocking out on the stage and performing killer tunes in a series of roof-removing shows at major festivals and rock venues. funlovincrimewriters.com

booking fees apply – please turn to page 60 for details.

The New Scummy Mummies Show

16+

Tuesday 31 March, 8pm £18 Back by popular demand!

Following their sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, comedians Ellie Gibson and Helen Thorn return to The Stables for an all new show – new songs, new jokes and new catsuits.

This show celebrates the scummier side of parenting, from drinking wine at teatime to hiding from the PTA. Expect stand-up, sketches, songs, and some very scummy stories. Guaranteed to make parents laugh and non-parents happy about their life choices. scummymummies.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Sam Avery

7 Mar

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

JANUARY

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.

Stage 2 hosts around 120 concerts each year of all shapes and sizes – folk, rock, blues and much more besides – along with a good smattering of comedy and theatre nights.

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

Hope In High Water

Robbie Cavanagh

The Trials of Cato

Saturday 15 February

Wednesday 26 February

Friday 27 March

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

35

Sound of the Sirens

+ support from Sadie Horler

Sunday 1 December, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door Join BBC awardwinning singersongwriter Lucy Ward for an evening of solstice magic, woven from festive song and traditions ages old. Sprinkled with her own stunning back catalogue of spellbinding original material, this will be an enchanting and beautiful seasonal performance.

STAGE 2

DECEMBER

Lucy Ward

lucywardsings.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Cara Dillon

11 Dec

Friday 6 December, 8.45pm £13.50 West Country folk-rock duo Sound of the Sirens released their new album This Time earlier this year, and it continues to showcase their gift for crafting unique, vivid and enduring melodies.

Their live shows combine a natural facility for connecting with their audiences and unforgettable performances with warmth, humour and, above all, real conviction. soundofthesirens.net LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Grace Petrie

Nicolas Meier World Group Tuesday 3 December, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

Zoë Schwarz Blue Commotion

In just a few years, Nicolas Meier has carved a reputation as one of the UK’s most original and uniquely talented guitarists. Drawing from a love of Turkish, Eastern and Middle Eastern music, flamenco, tango and more – all mixed with jazz – Nicolas is one of the rising stars of the UK jazz scene. But his versatility and musical fluency extends well beyond that, so much so that his considerable talents drew the attention of rock guitar legend Jeff Beck, who has since made Nicolas a mainstay in The Jeff Beck Group. meiergroup.com

Zoë Schwarz Blue Commotion refresh the blues genre with eclectic arrangements, virtuosic playing and vocal prowess. Zoë’s dynamic and commanding vocal delivery is edgy and suave at the same time. The band also features Rob Koral’s electrifying touch and flow on guitar and and the highly accomplished rhythm section of Pete Whittaker-Hammond (organ) and Paul Robinson (drums). bluecommotion.com

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Remi Harris

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12 May 2020

Saturday 7 December, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

30 Jan 2020

buy any time – book your tickets online 24 hours a day

Erja Lytinnen & Bernard Allison

10 May 2020

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

Albany Down 16+

Saturday 14 December, 8.45pm £12 in advance, £14 on the door

DEC / JAN

Wednesday 11 December, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

STANDING GIG

STAGE 2

Presenting the comedy stars of tomorrow today!

Compere Andrew Bird introduces rising star Helen Bauer and the headliner is Sean Meo. Lineup may be subject to change.

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Catherine Bohart

12 Mar 2020

Masada

+ support Friday 13 December, 8.45pm £5

Albany Down are an original rock band with influences ranging from classic acts such as Led Zeppelin and Thunder to modern bands The Black Keys and Clutch. They have recorded three highly acclaimed studio albums with producer Greg Haver. The most recent, The Outer Reach, won the UK Songwriting Contest and was voted fifth best album of the year by Blues Rock Review. albanydown.com Promoted by Albany Down

Greg Russell & Danny Pedler: Field & Dyke Friday 17 January, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

Back in 1993, three musicians formed Masada to write original material. The following year, the band released their debut album Virtually Real and embarked on an ambitious UK tour. The music was heavy, intense and technical. Although never signed, 25 years on, older and wiser, the album has just been released by the boys on all digital music platforms. To celebrate that legacy, the original members will be reforming to play the album live one more time.

Promoted by Masada

Danny Pedler and two-time BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards winner Greg Russell bring you the Field & Dyke project. The music and songs incorporate samples of dialogue from Field & Dyke interviewees and factory machine rhythms. These innovative techniques create songs that explore folk music as a vehicle to communicate the feeling behind social and cultural themes present in 21st century England. gregrussellfolk.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

The Trials of Cato

email stables@stables.org

27 Mar

box office 01908 280800

37

The Local Honeys 16+

Wednesday 22 January, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

STAGE 2

JAN / FEB

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

Presenting the comedy stars of tomorrow today!

Compere Andrew Bird introduces rising star Faye Treacy and the headliner is Matt Green. (Line-up is subject to change.)

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Simon Brodkin

20 Feb

Friday 31 January, 8.45pm £12 in advance, £14 on the door Hailing from the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Montana Hobbs and Linda Jean Stokley are two talented young women who have been bringing the folk music of Kentucky to a string of UK festivals. If you’re looking for an antidote to the surplus of young beardy middle-class men singing winsomely about love, then The Local Honeys will bring you something more vital, more socially and environmentally aware... and they’ll deliver it so beautifully you’ll be hooked in seconds. thelocalhoneys.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Gary Fletcher Band

Roswell

Friday 24 & Saturday 25 January, 8.45pm £12 in advance, £14 on the door

8 Feb

Megan Dixon-Hood Saturday 1 February, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

Gary Fletcher and his band perform a compelling mix of originals and classic covers straddling blues, Americana and folk. Following the great success of the band’s gig at The Stables last year, tonight’s show promises to be an exciting evening of high-quality performances from musicians of considerable pedigree. garyfletchermusic.net LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Robbie Cavanagh

38

26 Feb

A sound of ethereal alternative art rock/folk, a fairytale world that hints at Florence + the Machine – this is Megan Dixon-Hood. The Cheshire born singer-songwriter has begun to make waves on the music scene and the end of 2018 saw her release her new EP Tales From The North. She recently collaborated with Manchester’s The Untold Orchestra to bring her songs to life in another way with the help of the 18-piece orchestra and her band for her latest release. megandixonhood.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Julie July Band

treat someone special – gift vouchers are available from the box office

17 Jul

Lewis Wright & Kit Downes Duo Tuesday 4 February, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

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Nicolas Meier World Group

3 Dec 2019

Footpath of Fame – your chosen name or text engraved onto a brick and placed amongst many celebrities in our exclusive Footpath Name a Seat – a seat in the auditorium with your chosen name on it Gift Vouchers – treat someone to a great night of entertainment

STAGE 2

Both award-winning, internationally recognised musicians in their own right, vibraphonist Lewis Wright and pianist Kit Downes make one of the most virtuosic and original duos of recent years.

From exhilarating up-tempo improvisation to lyrical ballads, they explore a landscape of music that blurs the boundaries between the scored and the improvised.

FEBRUARY

gift ideas

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

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

Roswell Saturday 8 February, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

Maz O’Connor +support

Friday 14 February, 8.45pm £14

Since their first gig together in 2018, new indie folk/Americana duo Roswell have won Purbeck Rising 2018, had their debut single Heaven Knows selected for Fatea magazine’s Winter Showcase, and released their debut EP Remedy.

The duo – singer-songwriters Jasmine Watkiss and Zoe Wren – are fresh from an exciting 2019, including appearances at festivals across Europe and completing their second EP. roswellband.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Mike Silver & Zoe Wren

2 May

Maz O’Connor firmly established herself as a rising star with widely praised LPs The Longing Kind, on which she addressed millennial angst, and its predecessor This Willowed Light, a folk set released during her year as recipient of a BBC Performing Arts Fund Fellowship. Her latest work Chosen Daughter just been released. mazoconnor.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Kirsty Merryn

email stables@stables.org

14 Mar

box office 01908 280800

39

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

Saturday 15 February, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

16+

Wednesday 19 February, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

STAGE 2

FEBRUARY

Hope In High Water

Hope In High Water have established themselves as one of the hardest-working acts on the UK folk/Americana scene. Off the back of their tireless gigging schedule and successful debut album Never Settle, the duo have received radio play across the US and UK, including BBC Radio 1. Their second album Bonfire & Pine is due for release in November. hopeinhighwater.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Roswell

8 Feb

Presenting the comedy stars of tomorrow today!

Compere Andrew Bird introduces rising star Jo Coffey and the headliner is Joey Page. (Line-up subject to change.)

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Jen Brister

25 Mar

James Kirby Saturday 22 February, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

Dominic Alldis Trio: The Music of Jacque Loussier Sunday 16 February, 11.30am £14 The great jazz pianist Jacques Loussier sadly passed away in 2019. By way of tribute the Dominic Alldis Trio will be performing new jazz arrangements of classical themes that pay homage to his remarkable achievements. dominicalldis.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

The Dime Notes

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UK acoustic singer-songwriter James Kirby performs beautiful and melodic songs that captivate audiences of all ages. With his unique style of guitar playing, he is not to be missed!

James is currently touring UK, Europe and the US promoting his new release Everything To Fight For. jameskirbymusic.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Dean Owens

22 Mar

booking fees apply – please turn to page 60 for details.

26 Mar

Harry Bolt Quartet

Wednesday 26 February, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

Tuesday 3 March, 8.45pm £12

Gary Fletcher Band

24 & 25 Jan

4 Feb

Matt Richardson: Imposter

16+

Friday 6 March £14

Andy Fleet Friday 28 February, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door Piano man Andy Fleet pulls his influences from Tom Waits, John Lennon, Donald Fagen and Allen Toussaint. He returns to The Stables with his brilliant quartet featuring Andre Canniere on trumpet, Rob Rickenberg on bass and Joe Evans on drums with a sound best described as sultry, engrossing, dynamic and cinematic. The band will be touring to promote the release of their third album The Sleepless Kind. andyfleet.com

Imposter tells the story of Matt Richardson’s adventures in showbiz and television, and how he deals with the imposter syndrome that accompanies these worlds. He doesn’t just feel like an imposter in show business, but in the business of being an adult in general. Imposter is an hour of unrestrained, raucous laughs, where audience interaction and impromptu tangents mean anything can (and probably will) happen. mattrichardsoncomedy.co.uk

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Sad Café

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Lewis Wright & Kit Downes

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STAGE 2

Manchester’s Robbie Cavanagh writes unscrubbed, heartfelt Americana. His second record saw him showcase at AmericanaFest in London and across the pond in Nashville, as well as perform alongside the likes of Jarrod Dickenson, Robert Vincent, Mary Gauthier and Ferris & Sylvester. Robbie is working on material for a third record, some of which he’ll be performing live with his band for the first time on this tour.

Fresh from an extended time playing in New York, Harry will lead his own talented Quartet who are NOT an “eclectic mix of trip-hop, psyambient, neo-soul, underworld electronic fusion”, but four young modern jazz musicians, UK rising stars at the top of their game delivering a new approach on jazz classics, standards and modern contemporary arrangements that also provides a showcase for Harry’s exciting, standout compositions! harrybolt.com

FEB / MAR

Robbie Cavanagh

19 Dec 2019

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Jen Brister

email stables@stables.org

25 Mar

box office 01908 280800

41

Ray Cooper

Saturday 7 March, 8.45pm £12.50

Friday 13 March, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

Palmerston are a five-piece acoustic band who weave their magic around folk, country and Americana styles to original and wonderful catchy songs by band member Alan Rondeau. In addition to playing theatres and festivals around the country, Palmerston are keen, eager and very pleased to be returning to The Stables in 2020 with a wealth of new material. palmerston.biz

Ray Cooper is a Scottish/English songwriter currently living in Sweden. When Ray left art school in Brighton he decided to follow where music took him. He joined Oysterband, eventually recording 19 albums and touring in 27 countries.

In 2013 he went solo and never looked back.

He has released three albums, the most recent of which – Between The Golden Age & The Promised Land – sees Ray Cooper make his recording debut as a pianist. raycooper.org

STAGE 2

MARCH

Palmerston

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Roswell

8 Feb

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Dean Owens

Catherine Bohart: LeMonday

16+

Thursday 12 March, 8.45pm £10 Join the star of BBC2’s The Mash Report as she smashes stereotypes around sex, sexuality and relationships. As seen and heard on Roast Battle, 8 Out Of 10 Cats, The Stand Up Sketch Show, Jon Richardson: Ultimate Worrier and The Guilty Feminist Podcast.

like us on facebook /TheStablesMK

follow us on twitter @stablesMK

follow us on instagram stablesMK

catherinebohart.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Jen Brister

42

25 Mar

buy any time – book your tickets online 24 hours a day

Stay connected!

26 Mar

Kirsty Merryn

Siobhan Miller

Saturday 14 March, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

Thursday 19 & Friday 20 March, 8.45pm £15

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

14 Feb

17 May

Jinder: The Silver Age Tour

+ support from Peter James Millson 16+

Wednesday 18 March, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

Saturday 21 March, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door

Presenting the comedy stars of tomorrow today!

Compere Andrew Bird introduces rising star Peter Brush and the headliner is Steve Day. (Line-up is subject to change.)

2019 has been a banner year for Jinder, with his single Keep Me In Your Heart crashing into the top 30 of the download charts after featuring in smashhit movie Fisherman’s Friends, and follow-up single Overthinkers Anonymous hitting number 14 four months later. His forthcoming album The Silver Age is scheduled to land in November, featuring a glittering selection of dynamic, guitar-driven singles, soulful storytelling songs and elegiac orchestral ballads. jinder.co.uk

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Phil Wang

STAGE 2

Maz O’Connor

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The Shee

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MARCH

Kirsty Merryn’s music consists of piano-based songs with sharply observed lyrics, packaged with panache in elegant, beautifully balanced settings and delivered in crystal clear, assured vocals.

Kirsty launched her debut album in 2017 while supporting folk legends Show of Hands on their UK tour. She returns to The Stables as part of a UK-wide tour promoting her brand new album. kirstymerryn.com

One of Scotland’s foremost singers, Siobhan Miller is an exceptional talent, renowned for her unique vocal style paired with evocative songwriting and a fusion of indie and alternative music.

Alongside a 2018 BBC Radio 2 Folk Award, she is the only ever three-time winner of Scots Singer of the Year at the BBC Alba Scots Trad Music Awards. She releases her fourth album in spring 2020, following three critically acclaimed solo releases. siobhanmiller.com

26 Feb

Dean Owens

email stables@stables.org

26 Mar

box office 01908 280800

43

Jen Brister: Under Privilege

16+

STAGE 2

MARCH

Jen Brister has it all: a wife, kids, a house and a job she loves (sometimes), so what the hell is she moaning about?

Join Jen as she takes an irreverent look at the often controversial subject of ‘privilege’. Who has it? Who doesn’t?

And why does no one like to admit they have any? jenbrister.co.uk LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Catherine Bohart

The Trials of Cato Friday 27 March, 8.45pm £12.50

Wednesday 25 March, 8.45pm £12.50

12 Mar

Dean Owens & The Southerners

Originally from North Wales and Yorkshire, The Trials of Cato formed while living in Beirut and spent a year boiling down the roots of their sound into a hybrid of traditional influences. Returning home from Beirut in 2016, they have since torn a shape very much their own into the canvas of the UK folk scene. Musical development in the run-up to their debut album was swift and sure, with Hide and Hair winning acclaim and receiving repeated national airplay on BBC Radio 2 and BBC 6 Music. thetrialsofcato.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

Greg Russell & Danny Pedler

17 Jan

Thursday 26 March, 8.45pm £10 in advance, £12 on the door Award-winning Scottish singersongwriter Dean Owens is widely hailed as one of UK’s finest troubadours, with fans including Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh and BBC legend “Whispering” Bob Harris. He’s delighted to be returning to The Stables with his new power trio The Southerners. Dean’s music conjures the wild romanticism of the open road, distilling the Scottish and Americana into a unique blend of Celtic spirit, country soul. deanowens.com LIKE THIS? TRY THIS...

James Kirby

44

22 Feb

pre-concert dining Before the show starts, enjoy a tasty meal in our in-house restaurant Café in 2.

To be sure of getting a table, call the box office on 01908 280800 to make a reservation.

Visit www.stables.org for details of our a la carte current menu and specially themed meal deals

treat someone special – gift vouchers are available from the box office

LEARN & TAKE PART

learn and take part Workshops & Courses NOVEMBER

Date

Time

Suitability

Fee

Blues Guitar Beginners Part 2

Sat 30

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£35

DECEMBER

Date

Time

Suitability

Fee

Sax from Scratch

Sat 7

9.30am-12.30pm OR 1-4pm

Adult/15+

£25

JANUARY

Date

Time

Suitability

Fee

Ukulele Beginners Part 1

Sat 11

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£35

Cajon Beginners

Sun 12

2.30-5pm

Adult/15+

£24

Sax from Scratch

Sat 18

1-4pm

Adult/15+

£25

Harmonica Beginners Part 1

Sat 18

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£33

Guitar for Improvers

Sat 25

10am-4pm

Adult/15+

£33

FEBRUARY

Date

Time

Suitability

Fee

Intro to Live Sound Engineering

Sat 1

10am-4pm

Adult/15+

£40

Intro to Music Recording & Production Part 1

Sat 8

10am-4pm

Adult/15+

£48

Sing Lead Vocals and Microphone Technique

Sun 9

1.30-4.30pm

Adult/15+

£25

Harmonica Beginners Part 2

Sat 15

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£33

Sax from Scratch

Sat 15

1-4pm

Adult/15+

£25

Ukulele Beginners Part 2

Sat 29

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£35

MARCH

Date

Time

Suitability

Fee

Conga Drumming Beginners Part 1

Sun 1

2.30-5pm

Adult/15+

£24

How To Make Up Chord Sequences

Sat 7

10am-4pm

Adult/15+

£35

Refresher Sax from Scratch

Sat 14

1-4pm

Adult/15+

£25

Intro to Music Recording & Production Part 2

Sat 21

10am-4pm

Adult/15+

£48

Mandolin Beginners

Sun 22

10am-3pm

Adult/15+

£37

Conga Drumming Beginners Part 2

Sun 29

2.30-5pm

Adult/15+

£23

COURSES

Dates

Time

Suitability

Fee

Saxophone Improving Beginners

Saturdays 11 Jan, 8 Feb, 7 Mar, 5 Apr

9.30am-12.30pm

Adult/15+

£69

Saxophone Study Group

Saturdays 11 Jan, 8 Feb, 7 Mar, 5 Apr

1-4pm

Adult/15+

£69

Conga Study Group

Sundays 12 Jan, 1 Mar, 29 Mar

11am-2pm

Adult/15+

£52

Saxophone Beginners Course

Saturdays 18 Jan, 15 Feb, 14 Mar

9.30am-12.30pm

Adult/15+

£52

Ceilidh Experience

10am-12.30pm; Sundays 19 & 26 Jan, 9 &23 Feb, 8 & 15 Mar (15 Mar: 4pm reh, 7.30pm perf)

Adult/15+

£92 (students £72)

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

45

LEARN & TAKE PART

Blues Guitar Workshop Beginners Part 2 Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 30 November, 10am-3pm £35 Joff Watkins returns with another workshop to help you move on with the blues guitar.

By looking at tunes by Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Jimmy Reed and John Lee Hooker, you’ll learn about 12-bar progressions, the blues scale and shuffle rhythms in more depth. You will need to bring a six-string acoustic guitar and prior attendance on the Beginners Part 1 workshop is recommended.

Saxophone from Scratch

Ukulele Beginners Part 1 Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 11 January, 10am-3pm £35

Come and take part in the ukulele revival! This fun and accessible instrument is making a comeback in popular music and in education. Learn the basics of playing, how to accompany songs and ukulele techniques. No prior experience is necessary but you will need to bring a soprano or concert-sized ukulele with you.

Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 7 December, 9.30am-12.30pm OR 1-4pm £25 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.

46

booking fees apply – please turn to page 60 for details.

gift ideas Footpath of Fame – your chosen name or text engraved onto a brick and placed amongst many celebrities in our exclusive Footpath Name a Seat – a seat in the auditorium with your chosen name on it 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.

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

Adult/15+ Course

Saturdays 11 January, 8 February, 7 March & 5 April, 9.30am-12.30pm (four session course) £69

LEARN & TAKE PART

Saxophone Improving Beginners Course

This course offers returning saxophonists the opportunity to learn as part of a saxophone group via 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.org for further advice.

Saxophone Study Group Adult/15+ Course

Saturdays 11 January 8 February, 7 March, 5 April, 1-4pm (four session course) £69 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.

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 if your recent sax playing experience is suitable for the course.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

47

LEARN & TAKE PART

Conga Study Group Adult/15+ Course

Sundays 12 January, 1 March & 29 March, 11am-2pm (three-session course) £52 This course is for those who have been playing congas for a while and have previous experience of playing traditional and popular Cuban or Brazilian styles. Ideally participants will have attended previous Stables Conga Beginners and Improvers courses or have a lot of playing experience from other groups. Contact us at education@stables.org before booking if you are interested in this course and we can advise you if your experience is suitable. Bring a pair of congas if you have them, or contact education@ stables.org if you need to borrow them (limited numbers available).

Cajon Beginners Workshop Adult/15+ Workshop

Sunday 12 January, 2.30-5pm £24

The cajon (wooden box) is the smallest drum kit in the world and the perfect powerful accompaniment instrument to any kind of band, providing a full snare and rich bass sound.

During this one-day workshop you’ll get handson experience to fully discover the 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) if you have one, or contact education@stables.org if you need to borrow one (limited numbers available).

48

buy any time – book your tickets online 24 hours a day

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 • PMC • PRS for Music Foundation • The Wavendon Foundation

Thank you!

Adult/15+ Course

Saturdays 18 January, 15 February & 14 March, 9.30am-12.30pm (three-session course) £52

LEARN & TAKE PART

Saxophone Beginners Course

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 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.

Saxophone from Scratch

Harmonica Beginners Part 1

Saturday 18 January OR 15 February, 1-4pm £25

Saturday 18 January, 10am-3pm £33

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.

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. Tutor Joff Watkins is a leading performer and teacher of blues harmonica and blues guitar, and has introduced hundreds of new players to the blues! If you get bitten by the harmonica bug and want to take it further, watch out for our part 2 workshop later in the year.

Adult/15+ Workshop

Adult/15+ Workshop

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

49

LEARN & TAKE PART

Ceilidh Experience Adult/15+ Course

undays 19 & 26 January, 9 & 23 February, 8 March 2020, 10am-12.30pm; Sunday 15 March, S 4pm afternoon rehearsal & 7.30pm evening performance Course fee: £92 (£72 students) for six sessions Playing for dancing can stretch you as a musician, but can also be one of the most rewarding musical experiences. The Ceilidh Experience is a chance for anyone interested in traditional and folk music to play in a band and play at a ceilidh. During the sessions you’ll learn tunes and come together as small ceilidh bands, getting ready to perform at a final event for dancers and folk fans of all ages.

You’ll be supported in the sessions by experienced professional tutors and ceilidh band performers, have the opportunity to practice with a ‘caller’ and perform on a professional stage and learn how to perform acoustically and with amplification. All instruments are welcome, but acoustic ones especially so! You should already be able to play tunes from memory, ideally at ’dance speed’ and be prepared to do some tune practice between sessions.

Guitar for Improvers Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 25 January, 10am-4pm £33 This follow-up workshop to our Guitar for Absolute Beginners is also suitable for beginners who may have been playing for a while but would like some extra help in moving on. This workshop concentrates on how to use chords and scales to play songs. It covers strumming and finger-picking techniques. You’ll learn about open, closed and bar chords and approaches on playing “movable” shapes, chord types (focusing on major, minor and seven(th) chords). We’ll cover simple open scales and how to use them to play tunes and briefly look at more advanced closed scales. We’ll also look at plectrums and types that suit you, as well as tab notation and how it relates to standard music notation, along with its pros and its cons. You’ll also learn about how and why to use a Capo.

To take part in this workshop you should know how to tune your guitar, the names of the strings and be able to play most if not all of the following chords: G, C, D, D7, A, Am, G7, E, Em, B7. You should also be familiar with the 12 chromatic notes and how to make up a major scale from them (the 2-2-1-2-2-2-1 or T-T-S-T-T-T-S rule). Contact education@stables.org if you have any questions about your experience or suitability for this workshop. Please bring a guitar (acoustic preferred), guitar tuner and a capo.

50

treat someone special – gift vouchers are available from the box office

Introduction to Music Recording and Production Part 1

Saturday 1 February, 10am-4pm £40

Saturday 8 February,10am-4pm £48

Adult/15+ Workshop

Are you an aspiring sound engineer? Or a musician who wants to understand how to use PA and get a better sound at your gigs? This workshop offers a basic introduction to the world of live sound engineering. It will cover types of microphone and placement, basic parts of a PA, how to use a mixing desk and how to use basic EQ. This course is suitable for complete beginners or for those who have gaps in their understanding of live sound.

Adult/15+ Workshop

LEARN & TAKE PART

Introduction to Live Sound Engineering

Join us in The Stables’ studio and control room for this music technology and recording workshop and hands-on studio session. Our popular oneday introduction is ideal for beginners or those who want a refresher. The workshop will use a MAC computer and Logic Software, but in a way that looks at the general principles that apply across all DAWS (Digital Audio Workstations) software such as Ableton, Cubase, Sonar. You will 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 further practice the skills you’ve learned. If you play an instrument, please bring it along for the afternoon recording session to learn how best to record it.

Singing Lead Vocals and Microphone Technique Adult/15+ Workshop

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 • PMC • PRS for Music Foundation • The Wavendon Foundation

Thank you!

Sunday 9 February, 1.30-4.30pm £25 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. Participants will be sent a short list of songs to listen to and get familiar with before the workshop. Please note his workshop is not a ‘singing lesson’ as such and won’t be about general singing technique, and you’ll need enough singing experience to know you want to have a go at singing solo.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

51

LEARN & TAKE PART

Harmonica Workshop Beginners Part 2

Ukulele Workshop Beginners Part 2

Saturday 15 February, 10am-3pm £33

Saturday 29 February, 10am-3pm £35

Our popular one-day harmonica workshops continue with this Beginners Part 2 day. This session will consolidate the work you have already done on improvisation, tune playing and chugging at the Beginners Part 1 workshop and move on to the fundamental blues technique of note bending.

Participants will need a 10-hole harmonica in C. Prior attendance on Beginners Part 1 is recommended.

Tutor Sara Spade returns with a chance for ukulele players to improve their skills. Building on Beginners Part 1 this workshop 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 or concert-sized ukulele.

Adult/15+ Workshop

Adult/15+ Workshop

Conga Drumming Beginners Part 1

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

Become 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.

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

52

booking fees apply – please turn to page 60 for details.

Adult/15+ Workshop

Sunday 1 March, 2.30pm-5pm £24 This workshop is for anyone new to hand drumming or interested in finding out more about conga drumming or Latin-American rhythms.

We’ll look at basic techniques including palm/finger movements and hand shapes for producing open tones, bass tones and slap, exercises for developing tone, independence and coordination. We’ll also explore some Brazilian and Cuban rhythms, with parts for one, two and three drums, and how the individual lines fit together with bell patterns and the ‘clave’ rhythm. You’ll take away plenty of ideas after the workshop as well as notes of what is covered on the day.

Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 7 March, 10am-4pm £35 This workshop is designed to de-mystify the process of making up the chords to a song. Suitable for guitarists, keyboard players and anyone else interested in the process, it will look at examples of popular songs in different styles, starting with simple chord sequences and progressing to more advanced ones, and looking at how more complex chords can add colour and depth. This fast-paced workshop covers basic principles that relative beginners will need to understand, but also more complex extended chord sequences that more experienced players will find useful. Full notes will be supplied to take away. You should have some understanding of scales and chords. If you are a guitarist, please bring an acoustic guitar and capo. Some keyboards will be available (please advise at time of booking if needed).

Refresher Sax from Scratch Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 14 March, 1-4pm £25 Following on from the absolute beginners Sax from Scratch workshop, this Refresher workshop will enable students to have more fun playing one of our saxophones, or bring their own sax, with a view to developing their skills and techniques. It is ideal for those that have attended previous Sax from Scratch workshops, or for other early beginners who would like to develop their playing.

become a friend Enjoy some great benefits including priority booking, discounted 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.

LEARN & TAKE PART

How To Make Up Chord Sequences

Join online at stables.org/support_us/Friends or call 01908 280800 for further information

Intro to Music Recording and Production Part 2 Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 21 March, 10am-4pm £48 Aimed at those who have attended the Intro to Music Recording and Production Part 1 workshop or who already have some experience of recording and music technology, this follow-up session will look 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 apply 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.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

53

LEARN & TAKE PART

Mandolin Beginners Adult/15+ Workshop

Sunday 22 March, 10am-3pm £37 The mandolin is a popular instrument used in a range of styles including country, bluegrass, traditional folk and Irish music. It is great as a melody or rhythm instrument and this workshop will introduce both styles of playing.

It will look at basic technique, simple tunes, chord shapes and progressions, and playing as a group and is suitable for those who have some basic experience of stringed instruments (such as guitar, ukulele, banjo, bouzouki, violin) and who can play basic open chords and a few scales of tunes. An ability to read tablature is useful but not essential. Please bring a mandolin if you have one, or contact education@stables.org if you need to borrow one (limited numbers available).

Conga Drumming Beginners Part 2 Adult/15+ Workshop

Sunday 29 March, 2.30-5pm £23 The aim of this workshop is to enrich your knowledge of conga drumming, become aware of the interplay between several congas and train physical stamina on the instruments. You’ll look at a range of Cuban and Brazilian rhythms with two-drum conga patterns for one player. We’ll continue developing work on all conga sounds (including open slaps and muffled tones) and look at more complex exercises including palm/ finger movements and rudiments.

The workshop is suitable for anyone who has done Conga Part 1 or has some experience of conga drumming. Contact education@stables. org if you would like to enquire if the course is suitable for your level of experience.

National Youth

Music Camps July/August 2020

Residential music weeks to inspire young music-makers Each summer young people from across the UK and abroad come together to take part in an inspiring week-long musical experience: National Youth Music Camps. From orchestral playing to jazz improvisation, ukulele sessions to steel pan groups, music theatre production to choirs and rock bands, the Camps include all kinds of music making.

The Camps are suitable for all young people interested in music, regardless of their playing standard – there is no minimum grade of entry. All we ask is that you love music and are keen to develop your talent.

2020 VENUE AND DATES Camps will be taking place at Pipers Corner School in Great Kingshill near High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire.

Teenage Camp 1 (for ages 13-17 years): Sunday 26 July-Saturday 1 August Teenage Camp 2 (for ages 13-17 years): Sunday 2-Saturday 8 August Junior Camp (for ages 8-12 years): Sunday 9-Saturday 15 August

For further information and to apply, visit www.stables.org/Learning/music_camps 54

buy any time – book your tickets online 24 hours a day

If you are looking for somewhere to eat before the show, then look no further. Café in 2 enjoys a reputation for top quality food and tasty dishes at a reasonable price.

CAFÉ IN 2

café in 2

Call Café in 2 on 01908 280832 or email stables@stables.org to book a table

Café in 2 is open from 6pm on concert nights.

For more information and the current menu visit stables.org and click on the link to Café in 2.

To be sure of a table we recommend that you make your reservation well in advance – call the box office on 01908 280800 or email stables@ stables.org – please advise us of any dietary requirements when making your reservation.

From time to time Café in 2 offers a specially devised menu to complement the accompanying concert.

MEAL DEALS Enjoy themed menus to complement the evening’s concert A TASTE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN OLCAY BAYIR: DREAM FOR ANATOLIA

Sunday 9 February

CLASSICAL LUNCH/SUPPER Before the music starts, enjoy a two- or three-course meal.

MAXWELL STRING QUARTET

Monday 2 December

ENSEMBLE 360

Tuesday 17 March

SUNDAY LUNCH AT THE STABLES Following our Sunday Sessions jazz concerts, we’ll be serving a tasty Sunday lunch.

PAUL HIGGS

Sunday 15 December

DOMINIC ALLDIS TRIO

Sunday 16 February

THE DIME NOTES

Sunday 22 March

JOANNA EDEN: SONDHEIM & ME

Sunday 19 April

JAZZ DYNAMOS

Sunday 17 May email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

55

INFORMATION

The Stables Bar

Winter Warmers

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

Snack & Bottle Bar

Keep the winter blues at bay with a warming glass of mulled wine or a tipple from our range of spirits.

Visit our revamped Snack Bar in the foyer with a selection of soft drinks and bottled beers along with hot and cold snacks to enjoy before the show or during the interval.

Dry January To help you through try something from our range of low alcohol beers featuring Ghostship, Heineken Zero and Becks Blue. We also have a selection of still and sparkling fruit drinks for those with a sweeter palate.

Gin’s The Thing Peruse our Gin Menu to choose from our selection of gins, tonics and garnishes

culture plus ad - stables.qxp_Layout 1 07/01/2019 11:55 Page 1

Save Time at the Bar! You can pre-book your interval drink at any till before the show starts and collect from our dedicated Interval Order area.

Culture

PLUS

Read the exciting new quarterly supplement in the area’s leading business publications

Features and interviews on the performers, artists and directors delivering great shows on the local stages + the comprehensive guide to who’s on where across Milton Keynes and Bedfordshire.

To find out more, call 01908 394501 or email news@businessmk.co.uk www.businessmk.co.uk www.businessinbedfordshire.co.uk

56

treat someone special – gift vouchers are available from the box office

INFORMATION

And not forgetting...

Tickets are still available for the following shows in November:

NOVEMBER

Date

NOVEMBER

Date

Ian Parker Band

Fri 1

Pearl Handled Revolver Acoustic

Sat 16

Andy Fairweather Low

Sat 2

Sunday Sessions: Clark Tracey Quintet

Sun 17

Glymjack

Sat 2

Daliso Chaponda

Sun 17

The Beatles: Hornsey Road

Sun 3

An Evening with John Illsley

Mon 18

Paul Zerdin

Mon 4

Andy Parsons

Tue 19

Tir na nOg

Mon 4

Jack Lukeman

Tue 19

The Delines

Tue 5

Buddy Holly & the Cricketers

Wed 20

Hot Club of Cowtown

Wed 6

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

Wed 20

Rowan Rheingans

Wed 6

Jason Byrne

Thu 21

Cinelli Brothers

Thu 7

Gigspanner Big Band

Fri 22

Gnoss

Fri 8

Jersey Budd & Silverball

Fri 22

T.Rextasy: The Acoustic Show

Sat 9

Clare Teal

Sat 23

Peter White

Sun 10

An Evening with Stray & Del Bromham

Sun 24

Mister Keith

Sun 10

Laurence Clark

Sun 24

Lost Voice Guy

Mon 11

Blazin’ Fiddles

Tue 26

The Willows

Tue 12

Flo & Joan

Wed 27

Marco Marconi Trio

Tue 12

Noble Jacks (standing gig)

Wed 27

Ikarai: Muhammad

Wed 13

Edgar Broughton

Thu 28

Making Tracks

Thu 14

Kiki Dee & Carmelo Luggeri

Fri 29

Ruth Notman

Fri 15

The Small Glories

Fri 29

Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers

Sat 16

The Barron Knights

Sat 30

forest of fools (standing gig)

Sat 30

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

57

INFORMATION

Also on sale Clive Anderson

Thu 2 Apr

Naturally 7

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM APRIL Wed 1 Graham Gouldman’s Heart Full of Songs £26

Sat 2

Thu 2

Clive Anderson: Me, Macbeth & I £19

Fri 8

Lindisfarne £28 & £26

Fri 3

Dr Feelgood £23

Sat 9

Ultimate Bowie £22.50

Sun 5

Tommy Fleming: Voice of Hope II £27.50 & £25

Tue 7

Feast of Fiddles £22

Fri 17

Toyah & Hazel O’Connor £30

Tue 21 Naturally 7 £25 Fri 24

Story of Guitar Heroes £21

Sat 25 Tenors Unlimited £21 Sun 26 Yolanda Brown £18

Grace Petrie

Tue 12 May

ALL SHOWS START AT 8PM, EXCEPT WHERE STATED

MAY

Sat 18 Cavern Beatles £22

58

Tue 21 Apr

Tue 26 Tom Robinson Band £21.50

Jake & Elwood: Best Blues Brothers Show £24

Wed 27 Rose Royce with Gwen Dickie £39.50 Thu 28 Daphne’s Flight £18.50 Fri 29

Sun 10 Erja Lytinnen & Bernard Allison £18

Sat 30 Danni Nicholls £16

Tue 12 Grace Petrie £15

Sun 31 The Demon Barbers XL £20

Thu 14 The Dublin Legends £27.50 Fri 15

JUNE

Nell Bryden £20

Sun 17 The Shee £16.50 Fri 22 & G2 Genesis Sat 23 £26 (£24 if both shows booked in same transaction) Sun 24 Simon & Garfunkel Story £22.50

booking fees apply – please turn to page 60 for details.

Cats in Space £20

Sat 6

King for A Day: The Nat King Cole Story £20

Fri 12

Northern Soul Live £23.50

Sat 13 Are You Experienced: Tribute to Jimi Hendrix £20

INFORMATION

Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Tuesday 12 November, prior to which Stables Friends have priority.

Friends and Founders are entitled to a 10% discount.

Please notify the box office when making your booking.

Tom Robinson Band Tue 26 May

Danni Nicholls

STAGE 2 Fri 19

Richard Durrant: Music for Midsummer £15

Sat 30 May

ALL SHOWS START AT 8.45PM , EXCEPT WHERE STATED

APRIL Thu 2

Matt Owens £10 adv/£12 otd

Sat 20 John Coghlan’s Quo £18.50

Sun 5

Lucid £10 adv/£12 otd

Sat 27 Classic Clapton £18.50

Sat 18 Jonny Awsum is Coming to Town £14

JULY Fri 3

Sat 4

Fri 10

Magic: A Kind of ELO £23 (£22 if show booked with A Kind of Queen in same transaction) Magic: A Kind of Queen £23 (£22 if show booked with A Kind of ELO in same transaction) Livewire: AC/DC Tribute £19

Sat 17 The Drifters £28.50

John Coghlan’s Quo Sat 20 Jun

Sun 24 Carus Thompson £10 adv/£12 otd Fri 29

Captain of the Lost Waves £10 adv/£12 otd

JULY Fri 17

Julie July Band £12 adv/£14 otd

Wed 22 Screaming Blue Murder £10 adv/£12 otd Fri 24

Ryan Young & Jenn Butterworth £10 adv/£12 otd

MAY Sat 2

Mike Silver & Zoe Wren £10 adv/£12 otd

Sat 9

Sam Carter £10 adv/£12 otd

Fri 15

Mark Simmons & Jack Gleadow £10

Wed 20 Screaming Blue Murder £10 adv/£12 otd Fri 22

Kieran Goss & Annie Kinsella £18

SUNDAY SESSIONS IN THE MANCINI FORUM

11.30AM

APRIL Sun 19 Joanna Eden: Sondheim & Me £15 MAY Sun 17 Jazz Dynamos £14

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

59

INFORMATION

booking information How to book

Support our Vision for 2020

Core box office opening hours:

As we approach the 50th Anniversary of The Stables in 2020, our ambitions include the creation of a new flexible performance and education space, but we also need to ensure that the current facilities are maintained and modernised. The total cost of this programme of work is expected to be in the region of £10 million. We have introduced an optional donation of £1 on all box office transactions. Your support now will help us to realise our plans and provide us with a secure platform from which to present world-class concerts and educational opportunities for the next 50 years and beyond. Thank you in advance for your support.

Monday - Saturday: 10am-6pm (until 8pm on show nights); Sunday: 5-8pm (show nights only) IN PERSON: the box office is located in the main foyer

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

ONLINE: www.stables.org

BY POST: please write to The Box Office, The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU

BY EMAIL: boxoffice@stables.org

Concessions/discounts

Payment options

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

You can pay by cash if booking in person; we accept Visa, Mastercard and Visa Delta.

Gift Vouchers

Reservations

Gift vouchers (any denomination) for The Stables and for Café in 2 and Bar (available in £5 denominations) are available to purchase from the box office.

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.

Data protection 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

Transaction Fees All bookings (in person, by phone or online) are subject to a transactional charge of £3.00. Online bookings are subject to an additional booking fee of £1.80 per ticket.

seating plan

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

PROSCENIUM STAGE

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

AB AA

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

LEFT DOOR

ENTRANCES

Balcony BR

BL

Balcony

DH DG DF DE DD DC

DB DA

AH AG AF AE AD AC

THRUST STAGE

KEY:

LEVEL SEAT TIERED SEAT BALCONY SEATING WHEELCHAIR

RIGHT DOOR

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

buy any time – book your tickets online 24 hours a day

th

H5 Portw

ay

lds

y Wa

TES A421 H8

13 0N

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.

Stockwel l Lane

H9

ve Gro

WALTON

Sou

oad

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

y wa

tR por

The Stables welcomes people with disabilities. For full access information, please visit the information 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.

M1

ew

Access information

A421

A5

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.

CO’S

BUCKINGHAM

• Head towards Milton Keynes on A421 • At the Kingston roundabout take the first exit • Take the first right into Stockwell Lane and The Stables is on the right

Parking

BEDFORD

130 A5

Chi

46

From M1 Junction 13

H6

A41

Head towards Milton Keynes At the first roundabout turn left onto the A5130 At the Kingston roundabout take the second exit Take the first right into Stockwell Lane and The Stables is on the right

NEWPORT PAGNELL

A42 1

From M1 Junction 14 • • • •

MK17 8LU

Nor

J13

M1

The Stables is situated in a rural setting to the south east of Milton Keynes in the village of Wavendon, only a short drive from the centre of the city.

A50 9 J14

How to find us

INFORMATION

visitor information

BLETCHLEY WAVENDON

th

WOBURN

Facilities for Hearing Impaired Customers

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.

Assistance Dogs

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

On performance nights, our popular in-house restaurant Café in 2 is open for pre-show meals and light-bites.

Service starts at 6pm and advance booking is highly recommended – please call the box office on 01908 280832 to make a reservation.

The Stables main bar (located in the foyer) is open from 7pm on performance nights. Coffee, teas and other refreshments are available from the snack bar in the main foyer.

Tickets are sold by The Stables Theatre Ltd subject to the following terms and conditions: 1) Tickets are sold on behalf of The Stables Theatre Ltd for itself or as agent for other promoters. 2) Tickets cannot be refunded except on the cancellation or substantial alteration of the performance. The Stables may be able to resell tickets when shows are sold out – a charge of £3.00 will apply (charge waived for Stables Founders and Friends only where The Stables Theatre Ltd is the promoter. 3) The Promoter reserves the right to refuse admission to any venue if it reasonably considers such refusal to be necessary for the safety and convenience of other customers or for the proper running of the venues and events. 4) Latecomers cannot be admitted until a suitable break or interval in the performance.

5) Smoking is not permitted in any part of a venue unless designated as a smoking area. 6) Every effort is made to present shows at suitable sound levels, however levels may vary according to artists’ requirements, over which the Promoter has no control and concerts may be loud. Refunds will not be given on a matter of personal taste or noise level experienced. 7) The Promoter presents a range of seated and standing events and cannot always guarantee uninterrupted views as the stage setup, as determined by the artist, may vary and some people may stand around you. 8) Some performances may have a support artist before the main act and the Promoter may not know this in advance. 9) Some artists may use strong language. The Promoter has no control over this. 10) Internet ticket sales are subject to booking fees and transaction charges which are levied to cover the cost of third party web/financial service providers and as such cannot be refunded. 11) By purchasing and/or using a ticket you consent for yourself and for any person using a ticket purchased by you to being photographed, filmed or recorded as an audience member when official photography, filming or audio recording is taking place. If you have difficulties with this please contact the Box Office on 01908 280800 before purchasing tickets.

Please note that all other unauthorised photography, filming or audio recording is not permitted and the Promoter reserves the right to confiscate equipment used/material gained in this way and/or remove offending individuals from the show. 12) Tickets sold or offered for sale by any person or persons other than The Stables, the Promoter or their authorised agents will not be honoured. 13) Please note some shows may contain flashing lights or smoke effects. The Promoter cannot always provide / specific warnings of these in advance to customers. 14) The Stables means The Stables Theatre Ltd (company no. 3224226). Please check stables.org or contact the box office for full current terms and conditions of ticket purchase as they may vary. The Promoter means The Stables or the promoter of the event for which the ticket is sold, in which case The Stables acts as the agent of that promoter. The Stables is owned by Wavendon Allmusic Plan Ltd (Charity No 261645) which aims to engage the widest range of people with music in all its diversity. As a non-profit making charitable organisation, any surplus made through the programme is re-invested in its artistic and educational projects.

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

61

INFORMATION

diary at a glance DECEMBER

Sun 19

All Star Tribute to The Flying Burrito Brothers

Sun 1

Les McKeown’s Bay City Rollers

Tue 21

Ed Byrne

Sun 1

Lucy Ward

Wed 22 Cregan & Co

Mon 2

Maxwell String Quartet

Wed 22 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

Tue 3

Steeleye Span

Thu 23

Simply reRed

Tue 3

Nicolas Meier World Group

Fri 24

Syd Lawrence Orchestra

Wed 4

Steeleye Span

Fri 24

Gary Fletcher Band

Thu 5

Matt Cardle

Sat 25

Back to Bacharach

Fri 6

The Manfreds SOLD OUT

Sat 25

Gary Fletcher Band

Fri 6

Sound of the Sirens

Sun 26

Sax Appeal

Sat 7

No Jacket Required

Mon 27

Sat 7

Zoë Schwarz Blue Commotion

Stables Screenings: Blinded By The Light (12A)

Sun 8

Woburn Sands Band

Tue 28

Deborah Bonham

Mon 9

Nadiya Hussein*

Wed 29 Think Floyd

Tue 10

Stables Screenings: It’s A Wonderful Life (U)

Thu 30

Remi Harris

Fri 31

Cleveland Watkiss

Wed 11 Cara Dillon

Fri 31

The Local Honeys

Wed 11 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

FEBRUARY

Thu 12

Mostly Autumn

Sat 1

Martyn Joseph

Fri 13

Cleo’s Christmas Show*

Sat 1

Megan Dixon-Hood

Masada

Tue 4

John Shuttleworth

Sat 14

Cleo’s Christmas Show*

Tue 4

Lewis Wright & Kit Downes Trio

Sat 14

Albany Down

Wed 5

Choice Grenfell

Sun 15

Sunday Sessions: Paul Higgs

Thu 6

BBC Big Band*

Sun 15

Kim Wilde SOLD OUT

Fri 7

Fascinating Aïda

Sat 8

Los Pacaminos

Sat 8

Roswell

Fri 13

Tue 17- The Scarecrows’ Wedding: Christmas fun for all Sun 29 the family – see pages 4-5 for more details

Sun 9

Olcay Bayir

Wed 18 Oli Brown

Mon10

Stables Screenings: Green Book (12A)

Thu 19

Sad Café

Tue 11

Fairport Convention

Fri 20

Bootleg Blondie

Wed 12 Mark Thomas

Tue 17

62

Brother Strut

JANUARY

Thu 13

The Ultimate Classic Rock Show

Fri 17

The Rhythm Kings

Fri 14

Roy Orbison & the Travelling Wilburys Experience

Fri 17

Greg Russell & Danny Pedler

Fri 14

Maz O’Connor

Sat 18

Wilson & Wakeman

Sat 15

Roy Orbison & the Travelling Wilburys Experience

treat someone special – gift vouchers are available from the box office

Friends and Founders discount applies

Educational

Stage 2

Mancini Forum

For more information see page 3

Sat 15

Hope In High Water

Thu 12

Sound of Springsteen

Sun 16

Dominic Alldis Trio

Thu 12

Catherine Bohart

Sun 16

Ben Poole & Stevie Nimmo

Fri 13

Don Giovanni

Mon 17 The Greatest Showman (PG)

Fri 13

Ray Cooper

Mon 17 Toy Story 4 (U)

Sat 14

Best of Queen

Tue 18

Toy Story 4 (U)

Sat 14

Kirsty Merryn

Tue 18

The Greatest Showman (PG)

Sun 15

Ceilidh Experience Concert & Dance

Wed 19 Algorisms

Mon 16 Aly Bain & Phil Cunningham

Wed 19 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club Tue 17

Sir Scallywag and the Battle of Stinky Bottom

Simon Brodkin

Tue 17

Ensemble 360

Fri 21

The Amazing Bubble Man

Wed 18 Merrill Osmond

Fri 21

The Mods Band

Wed 18 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

Sat 22

Nights on Broadway

Thu 19

Richard Digance

Sat 22

James Kirby

Thu 19

Siobhan Miller

Mon 24 Stables Screenings: Rocketman (15)

Fri 20

An Evening with Eric & Ern

Tue 25

Fri 20

Siobhan Miller

Wed 26 Phil Wang

Sat 21

Suzi Ruffell

Wed 26 Robbie Cavanagh

Sat 21

Jinder

Thu 27

The Counterfeit Stones

Sun 22

The Dime Notes

Fri 28

Jeremy Vine

Mon 23 Amy Wadge

Fri 28

Andy Fleet

Tue 24

Sat 29

The Strange Doors

Wed 25 Limehouse Lizzy

Thu 20

The Lion King (PG)

Thu 20

Red Priest

MARCH

INFORMATION

Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Tuesday 12 November, prior to which Stables Friends have priority.

Adventures of the Yorkshire Shepherdess

Wed 25 Jen Brister

Sun 1

The Jive Aces Big Beat Revue

Thu 26

Bedfordshire Schools Battle of the Bands

Tue 3

The Fureys

Thu 26

Dean Owens & The Southerners

Tue 3

Harry Bolt Quartet

Fri 27

The Christians

Thu 5

Havana Nights

Fri 27

The Trials of Cato

Fri 6

Albert Lee

Sat 28

T.Rextasy

Fri 6

Matt Richardson

Sun 29

Ronnie Scott’s All Star Band

Sat 7

Sam Avery

Mon 30 Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers

Sat 7

Palmerston

Tue 31

Tue 10

BFI Study Day: French

The New Scummy Mummies Show

Wed 11 BFI Study Day: Spanish Wed 11 Ivo Graham

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

63

your perfect Conference Venue The Stables offers an inspirational and unique setting for a wide range of meetings, conferences, team-building musical workshops and businessfocussed events.

Hold your event at The Stables before the end of March 2020 and receive

15% discount on room hire For further details please contact the Development Office on 01908 280815 or development@stables.org SHARE OUR PASSION...

become a Friend of The Stables Membership starts at just £30 per year

By becoming a Friend of The Stables you’ll be helping to support one of the UK’s favourite concert venues. You’ll also be entitled to a range of benefits designed to make your visits to us even more enjoyable.

Your support will enable us to plan for the future with greater confidence and ensure we can continue to develop our world-class music and education programmes.

To become a Friend please call The Stables box office on 01908 280800.

Alternatively, pick up a membership form from the box office or join online at stables.org Wavendon Allmusic Plan Ltd (Registered charity number 261645)

email stables@stables.org

box office 01908 280800

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