Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Autumn 2014 brochure

THEATRE ROYAL BURY ST EDMUNDS Programme

SEPTEMBER 2014 − FEBRuARY 2015

BOX OFFICE www.theatreroyal.org / 01284 769505

Welcome to the AUTUMN Season sponsored by A Note From Our SponSors

Welcome to the new season brochure which has many great shows including drama, ballet, opera and comedy. We are featuring work through to February, so as the nights draw in we hope you find many reasons for spending more time here. For families and schools, you will see we have continued our commitment to offering a year-long programme of exciting work.

With nearly six months packed into this brochure, it’s hard to single out particular shows but I know Michael Morpurgo’s deeply moving Private Peaceful will continue our commemoration of the First World War with great sensitivity. I am also pleased to be able to support local writers and artists and we have a number of performances that celebrate work from our region. Equally we feature plays by two of the best-known British contemporary writers John Godber and Tim Firth.

We also bring the fabulous and internationally renowned Complicite to Bury for the very first time with their highly acclaimed production Lionboy. With award-winning LipService, BBC 4’s John Shuttleworth, and the musical talents of Showstoppers I hope you feel that we are offering some really great nights out.

Through the Summer we will also be undertaking some important work with the National Trust improving the comfort of the seating in the Pit.

Beckett Financial Services is based in Bury St Edmunds and we are very proud to be supporting the Theatre Royal.

This project will continue over the coming years as resources become available.

Creatively, the Theatre Royal are working with The Original Theatre Company to produce Three Men in a Boat, and Two Bit Classics are returning with Pride and Prejudice. I am also looking forward to directing my first productions for the Theatre Royal Cinderella and Tim Firth’s Sign of the Times providing opportunities for artists and performers to work in our region.

Finally, I would like to thank our local authorities St Edmundsbury District Council and Suffolk County Council, Arts Council England, our season sponsor Beckett, and the many individuals and businesses that have been so supportive to the Theatre Royal over the past six months. We believe we are moving into an exciting new era for the Theatre Royal but it would be impossible without your support as audience members.

DIRECTOR / Karen Simpson

Our company has been providing investment advice since 1988 and we are accredited Chartered Financial Planners so our clients enjoy the highest operating standards in our industry; chartered status is awarded by our professional body and is the gold standard for insurance and financial planning.

We can help you with a broad array of independent financial solutions including retirement planning, mitigating your inheritance tax, evaluating the options available to your business and securing your family’s financial future.

MANAGING DIRECTOR / Ian White

FRIENDS & PRIORITY BOOKING OPENS Wed 18 June at 10am General Booking Online OPens Sat 21 June at 6pm General Booking OPens Tues 24 June at 10am Box Office Mon – Sat, 10am – 6pm

01284 769505

Book online at www.theatreroyal.org or e-mail booking@theatreroyal.org

DRAMA SAVER

FRINGE SAVER

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Spend less and see more this Autumn with our special saver packages!

Book 4 SHOWS − 5% discount

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Book 5 SHOWS − 10% discount

DRAMA & FRINGE SAVERS

DRAMA & FRINGE SaveRS

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Book 6 Shows or more − 15% discount Tickets must be booked in the same transaction.

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DRAMA SAVER: Indulge in some drama this season...

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Try something new this

Thurs 4 – Fri 12 September Three Men In A Boat pg 4

Wed 22 – Sat 25 October Pride & Prejudice pg 10

Wed 17 September Suffolk Stories pg 6

Wed 12 November Seven Ages pg 12

Tues 23 - Sat 27 September You’re Never Too Old pg 7

Thurs 22 – Sat 31 January Sign Of The Times pg 19

Thurs 18 September Call Mr Robeson pg 6

Tues 30 September – Sat 4 October On The Piste pg 8

Thurs 5 – Fri 6 February Teechers pg 20

Sun 26 October Around The World In 80 Days pg 11

Thurs 13 – Fri 14 November The Picture Of Doreen Gray pg 13

Mon 6 – Sat 11 October Private Peaceful pg 9

Other u21 D offers:

Tues 10 – Fri 13 February Lionboy pg 21

Fri 31 October – Sat 1 November The Restoration of Nell Gwyn pg 11

FDSFriends Discount FDSsee pg 32 S S see pg 32 u21D Under 21 Saver

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Sat 15 November John Shuttleworth pg 14 Sat 17 January Showstopper!

The Improvised Musical pg 18

School Discount see pg 32

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SEPTEMBER Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Thurs 4 − Fri 12 September

DRAMA / The Original Theatre Company & The Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds

Three Men In A Boat

by Jerome K Jerome, adapted & directed by Craig Gilbert

Following a sell-out hit tour in 2012, Craig Gilbert’s ingenious, acclaimed adaption of Jerome K Jerome’s classic tale of boating misadventure returns to the UK stage this Autumn armed with more singing, wilder adventures and sporting even brighter blazers.

Originally intended as a guide to boating on the Thames, Jerome’s ripping yarn of youthful friendship, mischief and folly celebrates the very essence of Britishness inspiring many of our comic legends from Morecambe and Wise to Monty Python.

The producers of Birdsong take this classic tale of British misadventure and folly by the scruff of the neck. Equipped with a working pub, live piano accompaniment, some ale, music hall singing, a dog and a feast of physical comedy, settle yourself in for a night out to remember.

‘The whole audience, which ranged from 8 to 80, were in stitches’ WhatsOnStage.com ‘More laughs than you can shake an oar at’ The Argus D

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Thurs 4, Mon 8 & Tues 9 7.30pm

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Fri 5 − Sat 6, Wed 10 − Fri 12 7.30pm £26 £21.50 £16.50 £8.50 4

Sat 6 3pm

£20.50 £16.50 £12.50 £8.50

Wed 10 & Thurs 11 2pm

£12.50 £10.50 £10.50 £8.50

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Tues 16 September

OPERA / Opera Up ClosE

‘OperaUpClose is leading an artistic revolution’ The Sunday Times

Mon 15 September

Nathan Williamson piano Wed 8 October

The Kingfisher Trio, led by Beth Spendlove violin Wed 5 November

Brazilieros Mon 26 January 2015

Rebecca Welham and Catherine Johnson, cello duo

LUNCHTIME CONCERTS / SEPTEMBER

LUnchtime Concerts

La Traviata

by Giuseppe Verdi,

directed by Robin Norton-Hale

The story of Violetta, a so-called ‘fallen woman’ who sacrifices her own happiness for the sake of her lover’s family and future, La Traviata has been thrilling audiences for generations.

Verdi’s sumptuous melodies are accompanied by a trio of clarinet, cello and piano. With a new libretto in English, OperaUpClose return to the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds after their Olivier award winning production of La Boheme.

Sponsored by

TICKETS £8.50 or book all four for £27 Complimentary tea, coffee and cakes after the concert.

More information at www.theatreroyal.org

TICKETS

Tues 16 7.30pm

A B C RV £26 £21.50 £16.50 £8.50

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SEPTEMBER Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Wed 17 September

Thurs 18 September

DRAMA / Lubkinfinds Theatre

DRAMA

‘. . . this exquisitely couched trio of monologues by Elizabeth Kuti . . . shimmering fishy tales from the depths of time and human experience.

HHHH The Guardian, Fishskin Trousers

Suffolk Stories

An evening of two plays by Elizabeth Kuti directed by Robert Price

written and performed by Tayo Aluko, with live piano

The Broken Token Set in Bury St Edmunds, amongst the strolling actors of the 19th century East Anglian theatre circuit, this is a fable of love, war and betrayal.

Fishskin Trousers Three lives interconnect across the centuries. In the 12th century, Mab gives an eye-witness account of the wild Man of Orford, caught in the nets of fishermen… At the height of the Cold War, Ben hears strange noises as he tries to fix the island’s radar system… While in 2003, Mog is faced with a heartbreaking decision…

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Wed 17 7.30pm

Call Mr. Robeson — A life, with songs

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accompaniment directed by Olusola Oyeleye, designed by Phil Newman

A rollercoaster journey through African-American actor and singer Paul Robeson’s life, highlighting how his activism led to his downfall. The production features Ol’ Man River and other classic songs, much fiery oratory, and a defiant testimony to the House Un-American Activities Committee.

‘First-rate… an admirable introduction to a great pioneering performer’ HHHH The Guardian

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Thurs 18 7.30pm

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SEPTEMBER

Tues 23 − Sat 27 September

DRAMA / Anton Benson Productions

You’re Never Too Old

by Steve Wood directed by Danusia Iwaszko

EDINBURGH to BURY

Tommy (Ian Lavender) and Ada (Ruth Madoc) are in the autumn of their years when they meet on a park bench. As they each confide secrets and recount memories, could this be the start of something special for such an unlikely pair?

This enchanting gem of a one-act play comes direct to the Theatre Royal from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, prior to a UK tour.

Running time: 60 minutes

Ian Lavender

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Tues 23 8pm & Sat 27 3pm

£14.50 £12.50 £10.50 £8.50

Wed 24 − Sat 27 8pm

£16.50 £14.50 £10.50 £8.50

Wed 24 2pm

£12.50 £10.50 £10.50 £8.50

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SEPTEMBER — OCTOBER Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505 D

Tues 30 September − Sat 4 October

DRAMA / The John Godber Company & Theatre Royal Wakefield

On The Piste

by John Godber

Join ski instructors Tony, Isobel, Michelle and Marie in an avalanche of laughs as they take us on the piste in Chamonix. From first time Brits to the champagne set, join them on the slopes and in the sauna as the ski novices try to impress.

On The Piste is as fresh as newly fallen snow and in this new version the laughs come thick and fast.

Life is out there but the falls are hard in this high energy, visual production set in the French Alps.

If God had wanted us to ski, he would’ve given us long feet!

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Tues 30 7.30pm & Sat 4 3pm

£20.50 £16.50 £12.50 £8.50

Wed 1 2pm

£12.50 £10.50 £10.50 £8.50

Wed 1 − Sat 4 7.30pm

£26 £21.50 £16.50 £8.50

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DRAMA / Scamp Theatre & Fiery Angel

100TH ANNIVERSARY WWI

Private Peaceful

OCTOBER

Mon 6 − Sat 11 October

written by Michael Morpurgo,

adapted & directed by Simon Reade

Private Peaceful relives the life of Private Tommo Peaceful, a young First World War soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn. During the night he looks back at his short but joyful past growing up in rural Devon: his exciting first days at school; the accident in the forest that killed his father; his adventures with Molly, the love of his life; and the battles and injustices of war that brought him to the front line.

Winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year, Private Peaceful is by third Children’s Laureate, Michael Morpurgo (author of War Horse).

His inspiration came from a visit to Ypres where he was shocked to discover how many young soldiers were court-martialled and shot for cowardice during the First World War. Age Guidance: 8+

‘The horrors of war and the joyfulness of life are bound up together in this magnificent show.’

HHHHH The Scotsman

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Mon 6 − Wed 8 7.30pm

£16.50 £14.50 £10.50 £8.50

Tues 7 & Thurs 9 2pm

£10.50 £10.50 £10.50 £8.50

Thurs 9 − Fri 10 7.30pm & Sat 11 2pm £16.50 £14.50 £12.50 £8.50

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OCTOBER Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Sat 11 October

Wed 22 − Sat 25 October

MUSIC

DRAMA / RDL, TWO BIT CLASSICS & THE THEATRE ROYAL BURY ST EDMUNDS

‘a uniquely theatrical experience... an acting tour-de-force... highly entertaining’ HHHHH Oxford Times

Buddy Holly and The Cricketers

Jane Austen’s

Pride & prejudice with 2 actors

directed by Abigail Anderson designed by Dora Schweitzer

This breathtaking show has rock ’n’ rolled audiences across the globe from Cardiff to California, Barking to Bangkok and Swindon to Sweden, and is guaranteed to have everyone singing along and dancing in the aisles.

A witty and inventive new adaptation of one of the most loved novels of all time, calling on two actors to play 21 characters and cramming 400 pages of action into just two hours.

It stars some of the finest actor-musicians in the UK and was endorsed as Britain’s most popular Buddy Holly act when the boys guested on BBC One’s The One and Only.

‘Buddy brilliant!’ Graham Norton

After a hugely successful run at the Theatre Royal last Autumn, we are thrilled to welcome back Two Bit Classics on their 2014 national tour. A welcome second chance to see this highly praised show.

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Sat 11 8pm

Wed 22 − Sat 25 7.30pm A B C RV £20.50 £16.50 £12.50 £8.50

A B C RV £20.50 £16.50 £12.50 £8.50

Thurs 23 2pm

£12.50 £10.50 £10.50 £8.50

Sat 25 3pm

£16.50 £12.50 £10.50 £8.50

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DRAMA / Chipping Norton Theatre & Oxfordshire Theatre Company

friendly

Tues 28 October

FAMILY

KIDS / tutti frutti & York Theatre Royal

friendly

Fri 31 October − Sat 1 November

OCTOBER — NOVEMBER

Sun 26 October

DRAMA / Ensemble & York Theatre Royal

Around The World In 80 Days

THE Princess AND the Pea

by Jules Verne, adapted by Toby Hules

by Mike Kenny

a new comedy by Steve Trafford, with songs by Henry Purcell

In this new fantastical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Princess and the Pea, Mike Kenny and the inventive tutti frutti team create a funny, original, beautiful retelling of this familiar tale.

Full of humour and bawdy wit, this new comedy transports us into the wanton world of the English Restoration. King Charles II lies ill, Nell Gwyn, his royal mistress, once the brightest star of the Restoration theatre, rages against her fate. What will become of her if Charles is summoned to his Maker? What perils will befall the English nation?

Mistress Gwyn and Margery, her maid, lead us a merry dance, filled with their laughter, tears and Nell’s enchanting songs of the Baroque.

A joyfully frenetic whirlwind of a show, full of daft Victorian invention, daring deeds and downright silliness. Three actors portray a cast of thousands in this madcap adaptation of Jules Verne’s globetrotting classic, bringing to life sea storms, police chases and even elephant rides!

The spirit of theatrical imagination combines with the great age of industrial invention to produce a piece of theatre that will have you crying with laughter as you travel the world.

Age Guidance: 7+

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Sun 26 3pm

£16.50 £12.50 £10.50 £8.50

Sun 26 7pm

£16.50 £14.50 £10.50 £8.50

For everyone OVER

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Not for the faint hearted, fake Princesses or for those who have trouble sleeping at night!

‘A company worth watching’ The Observer

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Tues 28 2pm & 4pm

The Restoration of Nell Gwyn

A B C RV £10.50 £10.50 £10.50 £8.50

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Fri 31 − Sat 1 7.30pm

£16.50 £14.50 £10.50 £8.50

Sat 1 3pm

£12.50 £10.50 £10.50 £8.50

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NOVEMBER Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Mon 10 − Tues 11 November

Wed 12 November

OPERA / Mid Wales Opera

DRAMA / Kepow Theatre

‘This small whistlestop touring outfit has done it again – out-pointing its bigger brothers as decisively as it did with its terrific productions of Falstaff and The Tales of Hoffmann’ HHHH The Telegraph, Albert Herring 2013

Carmen

Seven Ages

English translation by Rory Bremner

Magical comedy theatre, celebrating the seven stages of life!

by Georges Bizet

directed by Jonathan Miller

World famous opera director Jonathan Miller teams up with MWO’s Artistic Director, Nicholas Cleobury, to create an exciting new production of the much loved favourite of the operatic repertoire.

This crowd-pleasing production with a live orchestra, features classics such as the Habanera and The Toreador Song in a new orchestration of Bizet’s legendary score by world-renowned opera and music theatre composer Stephen McNeff, commissioned especially for the Mid Wales Opera Chamber Orchestra.

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Mon 10 − Tues 11 7.30pm

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EDINBURGH to BURY

Fresh from a sell-out world tour to 10 different countries - on 4 different continents - Seven Ages has been seen at over 400 venues across the UK and garnered 5 star reviews at the Edinburgh Festival. Created by and starring Kevin Tomlinson (winner of the Sunday Times Playwright Award) this wonderful show explores the seven stages of life. From infancy - through love and wisdom - to growing old disgracefully.

Enjoy the whole of life, compressed into two hilarious, heart-warming hours!

For ages 6-106

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Wed 12 7.30pm

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NOVEMBER

Thurs 13 − Fri 14 November

COMEDY / LipService & Oldham Coliseum

The Picture of Doreen Gray We are delighted to welcome back LipService following their hugely successful productions Inspector Norse, Move Over Moriarty, Withering Looks and Desperate to be Doris.

Doreen Gray has it all, a drive time radio show, a high ratings lifestyle programme, Up Sticks and Away on Even More 4, her famously youthful looks – she ranks up there in the national treasure list alongside Cliff and Lulu. But how does Doreen stay so incredibly young? When Doreen is invited to a school reunion, the headmistress dusts off Doreen’s portrait to reveal a dark and dreadful secret.

Featuring community actors as Doreen’s school mates and some random fairies.

‘It really is quite some time since one has seen a theatre audience enjoy such total participation in every aspect of a show’ Public Review on Inspector Norse

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WeFare looking for members of the community to participate in a variety of ways in this production.

Please contact Amy Wyllie amyw@theatreroyal.org to register your interest.

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NOVEMBER Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Sat 15 November

Sun 16 November

COMEDY / RBM

DRAMA / Clive Francis Productions

‘Spellbinding’ HHHHH The Sunday Times ‘Clive Francis’ storytelling is as fresh, ingenious and enthralling as if it had only this minute sprung to life’ HHHHH The Irish Times John Shuttleworth in

Clive Francis in

As heard recently on BBC Radio 4’s John Shuttleworth’s Lounge Music.

a unique one man adaptation of Dickens’ classic novel

A WEE KEN TO REMEMBER Versatile singer/organist, John Shuttleworth, wants to share fond memories of his favourite past weekends.

However, a typo on the poster means John is obliged to spend the evening paying homage to his nextdoor neighbour and sole agent – the diminutive Ken Worthington. He’ll probably end up doing both!

In this brand new show, Shuttleworth will perform classic tunes such as Two Margarines and I Can’t Go Back To Savoury Now as well as new ditties like Bitter Sweet Memories and Relatives In Rotherham.

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adapted and devised by Clive Francis, music and sound by Phillip Sheppard

Clive Francis reprises his acclaimed RSC performance as the misanthropic Ebenezer Scrooge, inspired by Dickens’ first reading and performance of A Christmas Carol on 27 December 1853 at the Birmingham Town Hall.

Bringing to life a whole host of Dickensian characters, from the spectral Jacob Marley to the warm and loving Bob Cratchit and his son Tiny Tim, not forgetting of course the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. www.clivefrancisachristmascarol.com

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Sat 15 8pm

A Christmas Carol

A B C RV £16.50 £14.50 £12.50 £8.50

TICKETS

Sun 16 7.30pm

A B C RV £20.50 £16.50 £12.50 £8.50

NOVEMBER

Mon 17 − Wed 19 November DANCE / Ballet Theatre UK

Swan Lake With its fantastic plot filled with romance, sorcery and betrayal, Swan Lake remains one of the most enduring and moving classical ballets. Join Ballet Theatre UK with their spectacular new production of this timeless classic. This immortal tale tells of a Princess held captive as a swan by the spell of an evil magician, a spell that only can be broken if the Prince swears true love to her.

Celebrating their 10th new production, Ballet Theatre UK will be performing this iconic masterpiece featuring their international cast of highly talented dancers, new glittering costumes and stunning stage sets.

‘Glittering costumes, expressive dancers... a pleasure to witness a production of this calibre’ Dance Europe, The Snow Queen

Supported by Hazelwood Dance Studio (01284 488134) D DS S

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Mon 17 − Wed 19 7pm

£26 £21.50 £16.50 £8.50

Tues 18 & Wed 19 2pm

£26 £21.50 £16.50 £8.50

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NOVEMBER 2014 — JANUARY 2015 Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Fri 28 November 2014 − Sun 11 January 2015 A Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Production PANTOMIME

A Traditional Family Pantomime

by Peter Duncan directed by Karen Simpson designed by Rebecca Lee

Cinderella and her father live in the dilapidated Hardup Hall helped by the ever-reliable Buttons, and watched over by a Fairy Godmother.

Then one day, two greedy stepsisters charge into their world and make things rather unpleasant! But with a glamorous ball on the horizon, and a chance meeting with a handsome stranger in the forest, are Cinderella’s fortunes about to change? And can she get home before midnight…?

Known for its traditional, fun-filled, family pantos the Theatre Royal will once again serve up a sparkling festive treat filled with catchy songs, silly jokes, and a sprinkling of magic. Packed with dastardly villains, miraculous mice, swirling dresses and some stupendous slapstick, you’re sure to have a ball!

‘Family entertainment comes in bucket fulls’ East Anglian Daily Times, Aladdin 2013

See our website or flyer for details of times and prices.

BSL Interpreted performance - Wed 17 December at 2pm Don’t miss our sparkling gala performance on Sunday 14 December at 1pm (show starts at 2pm).

Sponsored by

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EarlY Bird discount ENDS Mon 28 July

Media partners

@TheatreRoyalBSE #CinderellaBSE

MUSIC / The Chapel Choir of Selwyn College, Cambridge At St Mary’s Church, Bury St Edmunds

2015

Our Golden Anniversary

50 Years In 2015 it will be 50 years since the Theatre Royal opened its doors again to the people of Bury St Edmunds and as such it is a special occasion within our long history.

MAY YOUR DAYS BE MERRY AND BRIGHT A Christmas Concert

conducted by Sarah MacDonald

A programme of seasonal favourites, including music by John Rutter and Morten Lauridsen, along with arrangements of traditional carols and songs.

DECEMBER / 50 years

Tues 9 December

Throughout the year we will be working with Bury St Edmunds Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society, Irving Stage Company, and through the Theatre Royal’s Education and Community projects to celebrate this important anniversary.

In 1965, through local endeavour, the building was transformed from Greene King’s barrel store back to its original purpose – a working theatre – and we have made a promise to mark this inspiring story with a wide range of events and activities. 50 years later, the building is of national significance as the last remaining Grade 1 listed Regency Theatre, a National Trust property and is known by performers and artists throughout the country.

However, its real significance is to the many, many people from this region for whom the theatre remains a central part of their lives.

DIRECTOR / Karen Simpson

Sponsored by

TICKETS

Tues 9 1.10pm

£8.50

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January Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Fri 16 January 2015

MUSIC / Sing-a-long-a PRODUCTIONS

Sat 17 January 2015

COMEDY / SHOWSTOPPER PRODUCTIONS

‘Achingly funny. Top-class creativity in action. Worth seeing again and again.’

HHHHH Time Out Critics’ Choice HHHHH WhatsOnStage.com Sing-a-long-a

Sound Of Music The smash-hit musical show returns to the UK in celebration of the movie’s 50th anniversary. Yes, the original Sing-a-long-a is back, giving the movie a birthday party to remember!

Sing-a-Long-a Sound of Music is a screening of the Julie Andrews film musical in glorious, full-screen Technicolor, with a host, subtitles so that everyone can sing along and a free fun pack.

The audience is the star of this interactive show – at Sing-a-long-a THERE ARE NO RULES! www.singalonga.net

SHOWSTOPPER! THE IMPROVISED MUSICAL

Spontaneous musical comedy at its finest!

The Showstoppers are delighted to return to Bury St Edmunds with their multi award-winning show.

A brand new musical comedy is created at every performance – transforming audience suggestions into an all-singing, all-dancing production with unpredictable and hilarious results.

The Showstopper! have performed in the West End and around the world, as well as six sell-out seasons at Edinburgh Fringe.

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Fri 16 7pm

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EDINBURGH to BURY

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Sat 17 7.30pm

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January

Thurs 22 − Sat 31 January 2015

DRAMA / A Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Production

Sign Of The Times

by Tim Firth

directed by Karen Simpson

Frank is the Head of Installation at Forshaws, a commercial lettering factory, and an aspiring novelist. Teenager Alan is his reluctant trainee, more interested in his band ‘Lizard’ and his iPod than the complexities of bracketing systems and electrical isolators. However, this pair of Yorkshiremen have a lot more in common than they both think, and as their relationship develops, their roles are reversed and they realise that they hold the key to each other’s salvation…

Written by award-winning comedy writer Tim Firth (Calendar Girls) and originally commissioned by Alan Ayckbourn, this comedy drama explores the power of words in our changing world, and the value of dreams.

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Thurs 22 7.30pm

£16.50 £14.50 £12.50 £8.50

Fri 23 − Sat 24 & Tues 27 − Wed 28 7.30pm

£20.50 £16.50 £12.50 £8.50

Sat 24 & Sat 31 3pm

£16.50 £14.50 £10.50 £8.50

Wed 28 2pm

£12.50 £10.50 £10.50 £8.50

Thurs 29 − Sat 31 7.30pm

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Sat 7 February 2015

DRAMA / Blackeyed Theatre, in association South Hill Park

MUSIC / David Graham Entertainment Ltd

‘Hilarious’ The Stage

Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

FEBRUARy

Thurs 5 − Fri 6 February 2015

‘A top of the class production’ British Theatre Guide

TEECHERS

SONGBIRD : THE MUSIC OF EVA CASSIDY

by John Godber, directed by Adrian McDougall

Blackeyed Theatre revives its highly-acclaimed production of John Godber’s classic comedy about life at a modern comprehensive for Mr Nixon, an unsuspecting new drama teacher. Fast-moving, inventive and highly entertaining, Teechers brings to life an array of terrifying teachers and hopeless pupils through the unique eyes of Salty, Gail and Hobby; three Year 11 students about to leave school for good.

Starring Sarah-Jane Buckley, who has already made her name as one of the world’s leading Eva Cassidy interpreters.

The music of Eva Cassidy only came to prominence in this country following her untimely early death.

Since Terry Wogan first played her recordings in 2000 she has had three No 1 UK hits and a total of 11 UK chart hits, including five top three albums.

Brought back to the stage with high energy, break-neck comedy and breathtaking ensemble performances.

Age guidance: 12+

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Thurs 5 – Fri 6 7.30pm

£20.50 £16.50 £12.50 £8.50

Fri 6 2pm

£12.50 £10.50 £10.50 £8.50

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The show features a brilliant on-stage live band, fantastic video footage and classic Eva Cassidy arrangements of some of the best songs of the late 20th century. u21

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Sat 7 7.30pm

A B C RV £26 £21.50 £16.50 £8.50

FEBRUARY

Tues 10 − Fri 13 February 2015 DRAMA / Complicite

Lionboy

from the novels by Zizou Corder adapted by Marcelo Dos Santos

Charlie Ashanti lives in a future where phones are powered by the sun, cars are banned and companies are more powerful than countries. Charlie is a perfectly normal boy, except for one thing: he can speak to cats.

So when his parents are kidnapped, he sets off on a rescue mission – with a little help from a floating circus and its pride of performing lions.

Award-winning company Complicite comes to the Theatre Royal with a revival of its first ever show for families and young people. Inspired

by Zizou Corder’s bestselling novels, Lionboy fuses storytelling, circus and live percussion in an adventure for everyone aged 8 and up.

‘It twinkles with a sense of magical possibility… liveliness, invention and effortless appeal’ HHHH The Times ‘A roaring success’ HHHH Mail on Sunday

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Tues 10 7.30pm

A B C RV £16.50 £14.50 £10.50 £8.50

Wed 11 & Thurs 12 2pm

£12.50 £12.50 £12.50 £8.50

Wed 11 – Fri 13 7.30pm

£20.50 £16.50 £12.50 £8.50

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Photo - Original Cast, Mark Douet

Originally co-produced by Complicite, Bristol Old Vic, Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse, Oxford Playhouse, Wales Millennium Centre and Warwick Arts Centre

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DISCOVER Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

The Community On Stage

DISCOVER TALK BACK

Thurs 29 January

FAMILY

Playclub

Join the cast for a post-show chat after the 7.30pm show...

Thurs 5 February

Join us for family activities in the Greene Room bar from 1 hour before the show...

Join us after the matinee for a group discussion over a cup of coffee...

Sun 26 October

Wed 10 September

Thurs 11 September

Three Men In a Boat

Sign Of The Times Teechers

Thurs 12 February (2pm & 7.30pm)

LionBoy

Thurs 18 September

Call Mr Robeson Thurs 25 September

You’re Never too Old Thurs 2 October

Director’s Talk Thurs 11 September, after 2pm show

On the Piste

Three Men In a Boat

Thurs 9 October

Tues 27 January, after 7.30pm show

Private Peaceful

Sign Of The Times

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Around the World in 80 Days Tues 28 October

The Princess and The Pea

Three Men In a Boat Wed 1 October

On the Piste Thurs 9 October

Private Peaceful Thurs 23 October

Pride & Prejudice Fri 6 February

Teechers

Wed 11 February

Thurs 23 October

LionBoy

Pride & Prejudice

Join Us

Join us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and find out what’s going on backstage, in our offices and all over the theatre! We love to hear what you think, discuss forthcoming shows and see photos of your visit to the theatre, so make sure you don’t just follow – get involved too! @ TheatreRoyalBSE 22

The work of the amateur companies, schools and colleges alongside the Theatre Royal’s own projects in the community is something I am deeply committed to. The work presented on our stage by the community is an important part of the creative and cultural life of Bury St Edmunds. We are proud that the Theatre Royal offers an important meeting place for artists of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to share their skills and passion and add to the programme of work for our audiences.

DIRECTOR / Karen Simpson

Mon 15 September

Fri 19 September

LAST NIGHT OF THE PROMS

A Summer Selection

Moktoberfest

MUSIC / THE BURY ST EDMUNDS CONCERT BAND

in the Greene Room

Bury St Edmunds Concert Band return with their sell-out concert evening to celebrate the finale of the terrific Summer season of The Proms, as they perform popular classics and patriotic anthems.

‘Absolutely delighted with the experience’

Audience comment on Bury St Edmunds Concert Band

TICKETS

Sat 13 7.30pm

DRAMA / THEATRE ROYAL WRITERS

A B C RV £15 £10 £10 £8.50

Money raised from this fundraising event will help to support the Theatre Royal’s creative, education and community work (Registered Charity 242977)

Following on from the success of Winter Warmers, the Theatre Royal Writers present an evening of new writing for the theatre performed scriptin-hand. This time the plays will be a mixture of comical and serious pieces. So do come along and see what the fervid imaginations of our writers have produced. You could be in for a few surprises!

COMMUNITY

Sat 13 September

STAND UP COMEDY

LaughingStock Stand Up Comedy The Bury-famous stand-up comedy night returns for the Autumn. After two sell out shows at the Theatre Royal, LaughingStock’s hilarious, fresh, new show is packed full of the best unseen comics from across the land, bringing a little bit of the fringe festival to Suffolk (via Munich)! Five fantastic acts, one perfect night not to be missed.

It will be the best of times, it will be the wurst of times! In support of local charity Focus12.

‘Hilariously inventive; they superbly straddle the line between stitch inducing satire & calamitous controversy’ Edinburgh Festival Guide

TICKETS

Mon 15 7.30pm

£10

Money raised from this fundraising event will help to support the Theatre Royal’s creative, education and community work (Registered Charity 242977)

TICKETS

Fri 19 8pm

£10

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COMMUNITY Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Mon 29 September

DRAMA / Introspective Theatre

HAPPY DAYS

by Samuel Beckett, directed by Ric Gardner

“Was I ever loveable? Do not misunderstand my question, I am not asking you if you loved me, we know all about that, I am asking you if you found me loveable - at one stage.”

First performed in 1961, Beckett’s striking play introduces us to Winnie, whose resilience is challenged by an unfulfilling relationship with husband, Willie.

Wit, irony and surrealism are used to pose fundamental questions about the human condition, in this universal comic-tragic production.

On-stage seating in our studio format.

By kind permission of Samuel French and The Beckett Estate.

TICKETS 24

Mon 29 7.30pm £12

Tues 14 − Sat 18 October

MUSICAL / Bury St Edmunds Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society

Anything Goes music and lyrics by Cole Porter

original book by P.G. Wodehouse & Guy Bolton, new book by Timothy Crouse & John Weidman and Howard Lindsay & Russel Crouse, originally produced by Lincoln Centre Theatre, New York, by arrangement with MusicScope and Stage Musicals Limited of New York

This Cole Porter classic is an enjoyable romp combining romance and side-splitting comedy, with the farcical antics of ill-assorted characters on board the S.S. American. The show is full of glamour, colour and spectacular tap-dancing routines, with a memorable score including I Get a Kick out of You, It’s De-lovely, You’re the Top and Anything Goes. This revised Beaumont Theatre version is enhanced with songs from other Cole Porter musicals to make it more appealing than ever. A fun show for all the family.

TICKETS

Mon 20 − Tues 21 October

FESTIVAL / Shakespeare Schools Festival

FAMILY

friendly

Shakespeare Schools Festival The Theatre Royal is delighted to welcome back the UK’s largest Youth Drama Festival to our stage. The Shakespeare Schools Festival works with over 1,000 secondary, primary and special schools all over the UK, making it possible for them to stage abridged Shakespeare productions in their local professional theatre.

Each night four schools will perform four different Shakespeare plays. Come and celebrate the achievements of your local schools in a wonderful evening of entertainment.

A B C RV

Tues 14 − Sat 18 7.30pm

£20 £16 £12 £8.50

Sat 18 2.30pm

£20 £16 £12 £8.50

Discounts available for Senior Citizens, those aged 25 and under, and Groups.

TICKETS

Mon 20 − Tues 21 7pm £8.75 / £6.75 (concs)

Tues 4 − Sat 8 November

Tues 3 − Wed 4 Feb

The Hunchback of Notre Dame

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

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by Victor Hugo

music by Andrew Lloyd Webber

adapted for the stage by Neil Duffield

lyrics by Tim Rice

Finborough School are thrilled to return to the Theatre Royal with the hit Broadway musical ‘13’.

Jesus Christ Superstar is an incredibly powerful and dramatic Rock Opera. The thought provoking and poignant story tells of the last days of Jesus of Nazareth’s life through the eyes of Judas Iscariot.

Following a move from New York City to smalltown Indiana, young Evan Goldman grapples with his parents’ divorce, prepares for his impending Bar Mitzvah, and navigates the complicated social circles of a new school. This is an uplifting, hilarious show, with an important message about life, love and friendship.

DRAMA / Theatre Royal Young Actors Company

directed by Amy Wyllie

Amidst the leering gargoyles, gothic flying buttresses and deafening bells of Notre Dame Cathedral, a figure looms as he surveys the bustling, squalid city of Paris below. But is he a man… or a monster?

MUSICAL / Irving Stage Company

DRAMA / Finborough School

COMMUNITY

Wed 29 − Thurs 30 October

music and lyrics by Jason Robert Brown book by Dan Elis

The battle between Paris’ elite and wealthy church and its seedy, impoverished underworld is brought dramatically to the stage in this fast-paced and vibrant adaptation of Victor Hugo’s classic novel.

Supported by Rural Youth Trust.

TICKETS

TICKETS

Wed 29 − Thurs 30 7.30pm £11.50 (£8.50 concs)

Tues 4 − Sat 8 7.30pm

£20 £16 £12 £8.50

Thurs 30 2pm £11.50 (£8.50 concs)

Sat 8 2.30pm

£20 £16 £12 £8.50

A B C RV

TICKETS

Tues 3 − Wed 4 7.30pm £12 (£10 children)

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OTHER EVENTS / BOX OFFICE SERVICES Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505 26

Tues 30 September

FUNDRAISER / in association with ClubNoticeboard and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds At Haverhill Golf Club

Box Office Services

TOURS Sept− Nov There are a variety of ways to explore behind the scenes and find out more about the rich and vibrant history of one of the oldest working theatre buildings in the country.

Please always check with the Box Office for any schedule changes for all of the below due to performances and rehearsals at the Theatre.

Guided Tours The 2014 Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds

Pro-Am Celebrity Golf Day

Join us for our annual ProAm Golf Day at beautiful Haverhill Golf Club, an 18 hole course lying across two valleys in gorgeous parkland. Bring a team of three friends, work colleagues, or clients and we will match you up to play with a PGA Pro, TV Celebrity or Football Legend to compete as a team of four. £180 per team includes coffee and bacon rolls on arrival, 18 holes, followed by a meal at the end and, of course, the prize-giving presentation.

Please email ian@clubnoticeboard.co.uk for more details.

If you would like to submit a team please contact Julia Read on julia@theatreroyal.org or call 01284 829942 Money raised from this fundraising event will help to support the Theatre Royal’s creative, education and community work (Registered Charity 242977)

6 Sept − 20 Nov Our tours provide a fascinating and lively insight to the Theatre’s history. Tours last approximately 70 minutes.

Now Selling For:

If you are promoting an event take advantage of our professional box office service, please contact Sue Pilgrim, Box Office Manager, on 01284 829949 or email sue@theatreroyal.org Bury St Edmunds Concert Club Churchgate Meeting House, Churchgate Street Mon 15 September 7.30pm Jubliee String Quartet Mon 13 October 7.30pm Manus Noble Sun 16 November 3pm Calum Huggan Sun 15 February 3pm She’Koyokh Band Mon 16 March 7.30pm Florin Ensemble Tickets £15, Students £5

Woolpit Festival Fringe Sat 29 November 7pm Woolpit Village Hall Oh Whistle...Two Ghost Stories

by M.R. James Tickets £12 St Edmundsbury Cathedral Sat 6 December 7pm G.F. Handel: Messiah St Edmundsbury Cathedral Choir, The St Edmundsbury Singers, The Suffolk Handel Players, conducted by James Thomas Tickets £20, £15 & £10

Tuesday and Thursday 2pm Saturday 11am

Self Explore

6 Sept − 20 Nov If you would prefer to take a more leisurely look around the Theatre, visit us during one of our regular open sessions.

Tuesday and Thursday Saturday

2pm – 4pm 10.30am – 1pm

Group Tours To arrange and book a group tour, contact grouptours@theatreroyal.org or 01284 829956 Tour Guided Tours Self Explore

Full Price

Concs

NT Member

£6

£4.50

FREE

Donation Donation (£2.50) (£2.50)

FREE

EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY PROJECTS

Theatre Royal Education and Community Projects Community and Education Throughout the year, the Theatre Royal works with a wide range of people across our region. Whatever your age or experience, we offer an exciting, professionally-led, range of projects that improve skills, develop confidence, and generally bring you into contact with other like-minded people. Over the coming months there will be regular updates and it is worth registering with our team for more information, keep an eye on our website www.theatreroyal.org/get-involved/

Schools and colleges We offer schools and colleges a wide range of activities that support the curriculum and increase children and young people’s opportunities to creatively engage with the range of work on our stage.

We are also pleased to be working with the Shakespeare Schools Festival in October. If you would like to receive information about this work please contact our Education Projects Officer on education@theatreroyal.org or call 01284 829935.

We are very excited to announce that we have developed a formal partnership with West Suffolk College to create opportunities for students to work alongside Theatre Royal staff and the artists on stage.

Community Projects

We are developing a Teachers Forum, offering teachers a chance to get together, find out more about the opportunities on offer, share good practice and inform what we programme at the Theatre Royal. We are also offering schools a range of activities to support the Creative Response Projects, Page to Stage workshops, Work Experience and bespoke programmes running alongside our productions. With productions such as Private Peaceful and Lionboy in the programme we are offering activities to support the core subjects as well as broader themes such as the First World War and multicultural education.

Throughout the Summer we will be recruiting a number of young adults for our ‘Young Associates’ programme and through the autumn we will continue to develop Theatre Royal’s Youth Theatre.

The Discover programme (see page 22) also offers a range of talks and discussions for audience members to support their enjoyment and connection to the work on our stage.

We have a wide range of projects and activities for young people and the community to get involved in. The programme is very varied and includes performance based projects, skills workshops and creative opportunities for groups. In the past these have included work with people with special needs, young offenders, teenage parents, and older people.

The Creative Learning programme is supported by The Rural Youth Trust, D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust, The Alfred Williams Charitable Trust and The St Edmunds Trust

We are currently working on a production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame with young people aged 16-25 years, a Summer School, children’s arts activities in a number of villages and towns in West Suffolk, and will be embarking on a new project with the community which will explore the story of the Theatre Royal’s reopening in 1965 as part of the 50th anniversary programme during 2015.

Writers Group If you are interested in writing drama – be it fit for stage, screen, television or radio – this group meets regularly to read and discuss work. Contact richard.stainer@btinternet.com for more details.

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SPECIAL EVENTS / COSTUME HIRE Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505 28

SPECIAL EVENTS

Our theatre offers unique spaces in our magical auditorium, contemporary Greene Room Bar and intimate Edwardian Premier Bar for special events. Whether it’s a family party, christening, birthday, corporate event or just an excuse to have a party, we provide an excellent service tailored to suit your requirements.

Catering for bespoke events of all sizes, our dedicated events team will work with you throughout the planning process and provide an attentive service to make you and your guests feel really special.

parties

Turn a visit to the theatre into the perfect celebration.

Serving a variety of party food, we can cater for any party either pre-show, between matinee performances or evening performances in our Greene Room or Premier Bar. You can also hire the Theatre itself for a larger celebration.

COSTUME HIRE

Weddings

Join the elite few who have married on stage and celebrate your wedding day in a unique venue. We create bespoke celebrations that truly reflect your personality in an environment where 200 years of history meets the modern day.

To speak to a member of our events team, please contact Ric Gardner on 01284 829957 or email ric@theatreoryal.org

Bar Facilities

Pre-show and interval drinks are available in the Greene Room Bar which opens one hour prior to each performance.

Our intimate Edwardian Premier Bar is available for private hire.

Hire a costume

Add a touch of professional glitz to your performance – hire a costume from the Theatre Royal.

Whether it’s for a fancy dress party, your local village pantomime or even a Regency ball we have a wide selection of costumes available to hire at reasonable rates. Discounts for schools and local theatre groups available.

Please contact us 01284 829955 or email wardrobe@theatreroyal.org for more details

The Theatre’s Development (Fundraising) department aim to raise some £200,000 annually to help support and sustain the Theatre Royal. We work with charitable trusts, business sponsors, individual Patrons, Friends and donors, and create fundraising events to support the Theatre’s artistic programme and enable much of our community work.

The commitment and generosity of people who value the arts and clearly see how much it can offer is more essential than ever in today’s financial climate.

NEWS: We would like to say a heartfelt thank you to the many people who took part in our Stage to Stage sponsored walk.

We raised a wonderful £11,049.

SUPPORT US

Support us

With a range of exciting and rewarding benefits, you can show your support and form a closer relationship with the theatre.

FRIEND / £47 (£25 for under 26s)

Enjoy ticket discounts, priority booking, regular news, discounted Guided Tours, guaranteed ticket returns and invitations to special events.

DONOR FRIEND / £120

Support the Theatre with £10 per month and receive all the benefits of a Friend’s membership plus invitations to special events and rehearsals. Donor Friends help us benefit from Gift Aid.

PATRON AND PATRON BENEFACTORS / £250 – £2,500

Enjoy benefits such as complimentary invitations to First Nights, season launches, and special events, your name on our Roll of Honour in the foyer and in our production programmes, watching open rehearsals and meeting cast members, plus personalised attention and love from the Development team.

Come and join us because we need people like you For further information visit www.theatreroyal.org and click through Support Us or call Julia Read on 01284 829942, email julia@theatreroyal.org Generous tax incentives exist for UK taxpayers supporting charities like the Theatre Royal.

‘How far that little candle throws his beams!

So shines a good deed in a naughty world’ William Shakespeare The Merchant of Venice Registered charity number 242977

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SUPPORTERS Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS The Theatre Royal would like to offer heartfelt thanks to our wonderful supporters for their kindness and generosity. Please do support those businesses who help the Theatre Royal through their generous sponsorship.

Irving Stage Company

Education Partners

Theatre Royal Patrons and Major Donors /

George Agnew and Ady White, Jennifer and Nicholas Antill, Martin Bell, Derek and Valerie Blake, Stephen and Stephanie Bourne, Gyles Brandreth, Tony and Marie Brown, Duncan Burke, William and Lynn Cardale, Sir Geoffrey and Lady Cass, Gordan Cawthorne MBE and Judith Cawthorne, Prof.Michael Chisholm, Sian Couture, The Croft Family, Rev. David Crofts, Patrick and Heide Daniels, Sarah Davies, Ian and Alison Duncan, DE Evans, Vivien Gainsborough Foot, Richard and Anne Freeman, Lesley Garrett CBE, Chris Grady, Richard and Anne Greenfield, Stuart & Melanie Henderson, David and Gillian Hodge, Eric and Hazel Humphreys, Hazel Jackman and the Hazelwood Dance School, Peter Jackson CBE and Ann Jackson, Stephen & Victoria Jenkins, Peter Jones, Penny Kelly, Tim Kenny, Jim and Carol Keohane, Lavenham Theatre Group, Ian Lavender and Ric Wakeman, Karl and Annette Ludvigsen, Joanna Lumley, Robert Malyon, Margaret May, Peter and Julie Merrick, Marguerite Nice, Jeffrey Parker, Michael Parkinson MBE, Nicholas Pearson OBE and Fiona Pearson, Heather Phillips, Carol Pool, Julia Read, Michael & Catherine Remond, Susan Roberts, Jamie Robertson, Paul Romaine, Judith and Mike Shallow, Graham Showell, John Simpson, Charles and Suzanne Simpson, Prof. Richard and Dr Margaret Smith, Martin and Karen Soons, Simon Spence QC, Richard Stewart, The Stamper Family, David Taylor, Claire Tomalin and Michael Frayn, Keith and Penny Turner, The Very Revd Dr Frances Ward, Pip and Tony Ware, Eric and Ann Warner, Amanda Wearing, Sarah Wenban CBE and Peter Wenban, Deborah Williams.

Charitable trusts D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust / The Alfred Williams Charitable Trust / The St Edmunds Trust / Rural Youth Trust

The Theatre Royal would like to express its heartfelt thanks to all of our valued volunteers – we couldn’t open without them!

Life Patrons / Colin Blumenau, Sir Peter Hall CBE, Sir Jeremy Isaacs, Sir David Rowland, Judith Shallow, Timothy West CBE 30

Registered charity number 242977

CAR PARKINg / HOW TO BOOK Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Car Parking

HOW TO BOOK Discounts J43

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D

S

u21

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u21

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DS

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SCHOOL Schools pricing of £10.50 per ticket with 1 free u with every 10 purchased where you see this symbol.

CALL 01284 769505 J44

Greene King’s staff car park, off Cullum Road, is just 200 metres walk from the back of the Theatre and is available for weekday evening and all weekend performances.

The cost is £2, payable on entry. A well-lit footpath leads from the car park to the back of the Greene Room.

While we regret there is no access for customers in wheelchairs to the Greene Room via this footpath, the front entrance to the Theatre Royal is completely wheelchair accessible.

FRIENDS Friends benefit from £1.50 discount off the cost of 1 or 2 full price tickets where you see this symbol.

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You can choose your own seats and print your tickets

IP33 1QR

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UNDER 21 SAVER On selected performances we offer a special rate of £10.50, bookable in advance, for anyone under the age of 21.

ONLINE www.theatreroyal.org

Other car parks close to the Theatre can be found in Swan Lane and on Angel Hill.

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E-MAIL booking@theatreroyal.org Come and see us at the Theatre Royal Box Office, 6 Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QR (adjacent to the Theatre).

Opening hours Mon – Sat 10am – 6pm GROUP BOOKING for groups of 8 or more

contact our Group and Schools Booking Co-ordinator on 01284 829931 or email groupbookings@theatreroyal.org

Ticket exchange Includes a £1.50 admin charge.

Tickets can be exchanged for another performance up to a week in advance or we can credit your Theatre account which can be used against another show within two years.

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GROUPS OF 8 OR MORE £1 off full price tickets on selected performances.

CONCESSIONS Under 16s, students, registered unemployed, those on registered state benefit and registered disabled – £2 off selected performances. Proof of status may be required.

Discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

STANDBY Best seats available on the day, on the door for just £8.50 for all Concessions and Senior Citizens one hour before the show. Subject to availability.

Restricted View All price bands marked RV are restricted view seating and priced at £8.50. Unless otherwise stated.

BOOKING FEE We do not charge any fee when booking tickets online, in person or by phone. Please note a £1.25 postal charge is made when postage is requested.

Access

Pit Access – down 25 steps.

Dress Circle boxes – are on street level / level access.

Greene Room Bar – street level access.

Upper Circle boxes – up 14 steps.

Gallery – one further flight of stairs (29 steps total).

There is a ground floor accessible toilet, the main level access toilets lead off the Greene Room Bar, and there are additional toilets at Upper Circle/Gallery level.

At every performance:

Gift Vouchers

Theatre Royal Gift Vouchers can be bought from the Box Office and exchanged for show tickets. Vouchers are valid for five years from purchase.

We also accept National Theatre tokens which can be used and exchanged for the purchase of Theatre Royal tickets.

Personal data

Please note that contact details given to our Box Office during a ticket transaction are held securely and confidentially, and we may use them, with your informed consent, to contact you by post, phone or e-mail for marketing purposes. If you would prefer not to receive information regarding future events, please let us know.

Induction Loop – available in every seat with your hearing aid in the T position.

D

Wheelchair space – available in Dress Circle Box F, H, K, M.

Guide dogs are welcome in our Dress Circle boxes.

GALLERY 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 D 9 8 D 10 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 C 9 8 C 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 10 2 1 12 11 B 13 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 14 3 13 12 B 14 2 Box H 15 1 Box G Box J A 6 5 4 4 6 5 5 6 4 Box K 1 3 2 1 3 2 4 6 3 2 1 5 5 1 3 6 UPPER CIRCLE 2 2 3 1 4 Box L 5 1 6 2 3 Price Band A 3 Box M 1 4 Price Band B 2 5

KEY

Box N

3 4

1 2

Box P

4 5 6

1 2 3

2 3

1

Box Q

For more information on accessible performances please see our website www.theatreroyal.org

Sightlines

The Theatre Royal is an historic horseshoe-shaped Georgian auditorium – if you are unfamiliar with sightlines please talk to our Box Office staff or enjoy a guided tour.

Some seats offer a restricted view for certain performances, and we try to reflect this in our pricing.

The atmosphere and design of the Theatre allows a very special connection between audience and actor – you are never very far from the action.

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Box N

7

Box J

6 8 7

8 6

4

7 5 3

5

4 2

1

1

9 8 7

3 4

1 2

4 Box Q 5 6

1 2-3

3 Box R 4 5 Box S

1 2 1 2

6 2

Box E

5

4

1

5 Box D 4 3

2 1

4

1 3 2 L

6 5 4 3 2

5

1

5 4 3 2

Box H 8 7 6

3 2 1 1

9

4

6 3

5

2

2 1

4 Box C 3

3 2 1

6 5 Box B 4

5

4 3 Box A

8

G

14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2

1

G

F

14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2

1

F

11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2

1

E

D

11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2

1

D

C

11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2

1

C

B

11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2

1

B

A

11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2

1

A

PIT

STAGE

2

4 1 2 1

H

1

8

5

J

E

7

4

3

2 1

Box G

1

L

5 2 K 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 K 3 6 3 J 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 4 1 8 5 H 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 2

Box P

3

DRESS CIRCLE

9 Box M

4

(RV – Restricted View)

Box L

6

Box F

Price Band C Price Band RV

Box K

4 5

With wheelchairs and guide dogs, please make clear your requirements when booking, so that we can make sure our staff are ready to welcome you.

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GENERAL INFORMATIOn / ACCESS / SEATING PLAN

General Information, Access and Seating Plan

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Box F

6

5 8 Box E 4 7 3 6

2 1

4 3

3

6 5 Box C 4

1-2 2 1

Box D

5 4 Box B 3 2 Box A 1

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Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505 DIARY 34

DIARY Box Office 01284 769505 E-mail booking@theatreroyal.org Book online at www.theatreroyal.org Box Office Opening Hours Mon – Sat 10am – 6pm Date

Event

Help us to help you!

Please have the following information to hand when you book your tickets: 1 The date and time of performance(s) that you wish to book for; 2 The number of tickets and any discounts that apply; 3 If applicable, your preferred seating area; 4 Your credit / debit card number.

Time

SEPTEMBER Thurs 4 Three Men In A Boat 7.30pm Fri 5 Three Men In A Boat 7.30pm Sat 6 Three Men In A Boat 3pm & 7.30pm Mon 8 Three Men In A Boat 7.30pm Tues 9 Three Men In A Boat 7.30pm Wed 10 Three Men In A Boat 2pm & 7.30pm Thurs 11 Three Men In A Boat 2pm & 7.30pm Fri 12 Three Men In A Boat 7.30pm Sat 13 Last Night of the Proms 7.30pm Mon 15 Lunchtime Concert 1.10pm

A Summer Selection 7.30pm Tues 16 La Traviata 7.30pm Wed 17 Suffolk Stories 7.30pm Thurs 18 Call Mr Robeson 7.30pm Fri 19 Moktoberfest 8pm Tues 23 You’re Never Too Old 8pm Wed 24 You’re Never Too Old 2pm & 8pm Thurs 25 You’re Never Too Old 8pm Fri 26 You’re Never Too Old 8pm Sat 27 You’re Never Too Old 3pm & 8pm Mon 29 Happy Days 7.30pm Tues 30 Pro-Am Celebrity Golf Day

On The Piste 7.30pm

FRIENDS & Priority Booking opens Wed 18 June at 10am GENERAL Booking ONLINE opens Sat 21 June at 6pm General Booking opens Tues 24 June at 10am

Events highlighted in red are taking place at a venue other than the Theatre Royal. Please check venue details at time of booking.

The Greene Room will be open 60 mins before each performance.

Page 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 23 5 23 5 6 6 23 7 7 7 7 7 24 26 8

OCTOBER Wed 1 Thurs 2 Fri 3 Sat 4 Mon 6 Tues 7 Wed 8

Thurs 9 Fri 10 Sat 11

Tues 14 Wed 15 Thurs 16 Fri 17 Sat 18 Mon 20 Tues 21 Wed 22 Thurs 23 Fri 24 Sat 25

On The Piste On The Piste On The Piste On The Piste Private Peaceful Private Peaceful Lunchtime Concert Private Peaceful Private Peaceful Private Peaceful Private Peaceful Buddy Holly & The Cricketers Anything Goes Anything Goes Anything Goes Anything Goes Anything Goes Shakespeare Schools Festival Shakespeare Schools Festival Pride & Prejudice Pride & Prejudice Pride & Prejudice Pride & Prejudice

2pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 3pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 1.10pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 2pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7pm 7pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 3pm & 7.30pm

8 8 8 8 9 9 5 9 9 9 9 10 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 10 10 10 10

Sun 26 Tues 28 Wed 29 Thurs 30 Fri 31

Around The World In 80 Days The Princess & The Pea The Hunchback of Notre Dame The Hunchback of Notre Dame The Restoration Of Nell Gwyn

NOVEMBER Sat 1 The Restoration Of Nell Gwyn Tues 4 Jesus Christ Superstar Wed 5 Lunchtime Concert Jesus Christ Superstar Thurs 6 Jesus Christ Superstar Fri 7 Jesus Christ Superstar Sat 8 Jesus Christ Superstar Mon 10 Carmen Tues 11 Carmen Wed 12 Seven Ages Thurs 13 The Picture of Doreen Gray Fri 14 The Picture of Doreen Gray Sat 15 John Shuttleworth Sun 16 A Christmas Carol Mon 17 Swan Lake Tues 18 Swan Lake Wed 19 Swan Lake

3pm & 7pm 2pm & 4pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm

11 11 25 25 11

3pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 1.10pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 7pm 2pm & 7pm 2pm & 7pm

11 25 5 25 25 25 25 12 12 12 13 13 14 14 15 15 15

Fri 28 November 2014 − Sun 11 January 2015 A Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Production

DECEMBER Tues 9 May Your Days Be Merry And Bright

1.10pm 17

JANUARY 2015 Fri 16 Sing-a-long-a Sound Of Music Sat 17 Showstopper! The Improvised Musical Thurs 22 Sign Of The Times Fri 23 Sign Of The Times Sat 24 Sign Of The Times Mon 26 Lunchtime Concert Tues 27 Sign Of The Times Wed 28 Sign Of The Times Thurs 29 Sign Of The Times Fri 30 Sign Of The Times Sat 31 Sign Of The Times

7pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 3pm & 7.30pm 1.10pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 3pm & 7.30pm

18 18 19 19 19 5 19 19 19 19 19

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm

25 25 20 20 20 21 21 21 21

FEBRUARY 2015 Tues 3 13 Wed 4 13 Thurs 5 Teechers Fri 6 Teechers Sat 7 Songbird: The Music Of Eva Cassidy Tues 10 Lionboy Wed 11 Lionboy Thurs 12 Lionboy Fri 13 Lionboy

DIARY

Programme details are published in good faith, but changes may occasionally be necessary.

Join us for our traditional family pantomime written by Peter Duncan, directed by Karen Simpson

See our website or flyer for details of times and prices.

The Theatre Royal is operated by a registered charity (number: 242977) Bury St Edmunds Theatre Management Ltd. Registered in England & Wales.

Registration No. 842455 Reg offices: 6 Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1QR Brochure designed by AWDESIGN 35

Fri 28 November 2014 − Sun 11 January 2015 PANTOMIME

A Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Production

A Traditional Family Pantomime

by Peter Duncan directed by Karen Simpson designed by Rebecca Lee

Hop in your horse and carriage and join us for our 2014 traditional family pantomime!

‘Family entertainment comes in bucket fulls’ East Anglian Daily Times, Aladdin 2013 Please see pg 16 for more details.

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EarlY Bird discount ENDS Mon 28 July