Spring 2023

support us with a theatre royal membership

FROM JUST £47 PER YEAR!

Our Patrons and Friends play an integral role in the theatre’s well-being, supporting the huge range of work that we do, both in the community and on our stage. We look to reward our Patrons and Friends with great benefits, with the main ones listed below. You will find more details at theatreroyal.org/memberships or you can get in touch with Emma Suckling, our Head of Development, by emailing development@theatreroyal.org

FRIEND £47 annually

SAVE ON TICKETS - Get 5% off tickets in Price Bands A & B. Excludes tickets for Children’s Shows, Fundraising Events, Local Amateur Productions, and Pantomime.

PRIORITY BOOKING - Access to a priority booking period. Available for each season launch and special events.

GUARANTEED RETURNS - Guaranteed refunds and exchanges up until 24 hours before a performance with no handling fees.

DONOR FRIEND from £10 monthly

Donor Friends receive all the benefits of a Friend Membership, including savings on tickets, priority booking and guaranteed returns, as well as invitations to special events and rehearsals.

This level of membership also allows us to benefit from Gift Aid.

PATRON from £250 annually

Patrons receive all the benefits of a Friend membership plus: invitations to Theatre Royal production opening nights and open rehearsals, bespoke tours of the theatre, acknowledgment in brochures, in-house programmes, and on our donor board in the Greene Room Bar. Plus, you’ll get lots of love and care from the Development Department!

WELCOME

They say the best things come in threes, and our Spring season proves that rule. We have three fantastic dramas, starting with our in-house production of Lucy Kirkwood’s The Children . Following on from the success of Home, I’m Darling, this is the next play in our ‘Best Plays of the Last 10 Years’ series. It is a truly brilliant, sizzling drama to keep you on the edge of your seat. New Wolsey Theatre bring us Brief Encounter, a beautiful adaptation of Nöel Coward’s timeless tale of romance and heartache. And Trinity Theatre present a production of the classic play All My Sons by Arthur Miller.

We also have three great comedies: David Cantor and Michael Kingsbury’s comedy Jumping the Shark explores the world of sit-com writing. Blackeyed Theatre bring us an updated version of John Godber’s comedy about the education system; Teechers Leavers ‘22 . London Classic Theatre will be cracking out the cheese and pineapple sticks for Mike Leigh’s timeless comedy Abigail’s Party.

We have three exciting plays from the Edinburgh Fringe, each visiting for one night only: SAP a contemporary thriller and one of the stand-out productions from this year’s festival, SHEWOLVES a modern day Thelma and Louise that follows two teens on the run, and

Watson: The Final Problem; a new play about literature’s most famous side-kick.

Theatre Royal’s Youth Theatre will stage three plays this spring: Small Fry , The Changing Room and Tuesday. We have big name standup comedians in Lucy Porter and Daliso Chaponda (and don’t forget Theatre Royal’s very own Comedy Club!).

All of these productions can be enjoyed alongside delicious food through our new partnership withLÉA. So why not treat yourself to three courses too?

Thanks to all of our sponsors, especially our season sponsor Ellisons Solicitors, main sponsor Greene King, and principal sponsor Jaynic.

OWEN CALVERT-LYONS Artistic Director

SPRING 2023 SPONSORED BYTHEATRE ROYAL PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

SEASON SAVER DISCOUNT

Two retired nuclear scientists in an isolated cottage by the sea as the world around them crumbles. Together they are going to live forever on yoghurt and yoga, until an old friend arrives with a frightening request.

Hailed as one of the top three plays in The Guardian’s recent Best Theatre Shows of the 21st Century, The Children premiered at London’s Royal Court Theatre in 2016. It then transferred to Broadway where it was nominated for Best Play at both the Tony Awards and the Outer Critics Circle and is now staged by Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds as part of our commitment to presenting the best plays of the last 10 years.

Lucy Kirkwood’s previous plays also include Chimerica (winner of the Olivier Award for Best Play, the Evening Standard Award, the Critics’ Circle Best New Play Award).

A Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Production. Age Guidance: 12+

Captioned Performance: Wed 22 Mar, 7.30pm

Touch Tour: Thu 23 Mar, 6.30pm

Audio Described Performance: Thu 23 Mar, 7.30pm

FRI SAT

10 MAR 11 MAR 2pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

TUE WED THU FRI SAT

14 MAR 15 MAR 16 MAR 17 MAR 18 MAR 2pm 2pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

TUE WED THU FRI SAT

MAR 22 MAR 23 MAR 24 MAR 25 MAR 2pm 2pm

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

“Retired people are like nuclear power stations. We like to live by the sea.”

compulsively.” - Michael Billington, The Guardian

“A richly suggestive and beautifully written piece of work... Kirkwood is the most rewarding dramatist of her generation.” - Paul Taylor, The Independent

Sat 28 Jan - Sat 4 Feb | Tickets from £10.80

From the writers of Round the Horne, Revisited and BBC’s My Family.

Comedy is no laughing matter. ‘Misleads’, ‘straight reverses’, ‘telegraphing’, ‘the rule of three’, ‘the law of the C’, ‘jumping the shark’; these are the rules of comedy. You can’t just learn them, you have to live them. Five strangers gather in a conference room that is in need of improvement, but then again, so are our protagonists. Despite their many differences, there is one thing that links Pam, Gavin, Morgan, Dale and Amy. They all want to realise their dreams through comedy.

Frank Donohue is the finest sit-com writer of his generation. He has flown in first class from Los Angeles to teach his five lucky disciples the tricks of the trade and maybe, if they have what it takes, he’ll show them the holy grail: how to write the perfect sit-com. As his seminar progresses we get a unique snapshot into the characters and discover that unlikely mix-ups, farcical set-pieces, and gut-wrenching tragedy exist in their everyday lives as much as it does on the page.

Age Guidance: 12+

(The

&

Office)

FEATURING

TO BE

-

Jan

28 JAN 2pm 7.30pm

TUE WED THU FRI SAT 31 JAN 1 FEB 2 FEB 3 FEB 4 FEB 2pm 2pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

DAVID SCHAAL as

HARRY VISINONI

SARAH MOYLE as

a laugh?

Royal’s very own comedy club features a great line-up of

across the UK touring circuit

up-and-coming

Finalist of Britain’s Got Talent and star of BBC Radio 4’s Citizen of Nowhere , Daliso Chaponda is finally back out of the house and on a stage with a new show of the slickest, sharpest look at life.

line-up for these performances

be announced soon! Keep an eye on our website to find out who will be joining

Royal Comedy Club

Royal Bury St Edmunds

Kirsty Hudson of Comedy

fair to say that 2020-2021 didn’t go to plan for Daliso... but he performed online daily to millions of viewers, and this is your chance to see what this master of satire has been cooking up!

of sharp one-liners and well crafted

real talent to look out for.

LUCY PORTER: WAKE-UP CALL

Fri 12 May, 7.30pm | Tickets £20

A brand-new stand-up show from the TV and radio favourite as heard on Radio 4’s The News Quiz and The Now Show and seen on Would I Lie to You, QI and Live at the Apollo.

Wake-up Call is a show about revelations, realisations and epiphanies - both large and small. Subjects covered include: bin collection schedules, the novels of Jean Rhys, cats, school fair booze tombolas, the Scottish Enlightenment, pressure washers, and Huel. It’s an exuberant, silly show with some wisdom sprinkled on top.

“Impeccably punch-lined anecdotes...” - The Telegraph

Age Guidance: 16+

TURNING THE AIR GREEN

Sun 18 Jun, 7.30pm | Tickets £25

An evening of high-class stand-up comedy and satire with Angela Barnes and Martin Rowson.

Angela Barnes (Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo) has good intentions but trying to live your best life, as it turns out, can be really hard. Joining her will be The Guardian’s multi-award-winning cartoonist Martin Rowson, offering a hell-for-leather journey through the history of visual satire.

Presented by West Suffolk Green Party as a fundraiser in support of Adrian Ramsay, the selected candidate for the soon-to-be North Suffolk Constituency.

Age Guidance: 16+

BALLET CENTRAL

May,

Ballet Central returns to Theatre Royal presenting a mixed programme created by internationally acclaimed choreographers. The 2023 tour includes the celebrated Mirror Mirror, Michael Pink’s restaging of Snow White , a new piece created for the company’s dancers from renowned choreographer Morgann Runacre-Temple, and an excerpt from Sophie Laplane’s Dextera, danced to a selection of Mozart’s music. This is a chance to see the skills, artistry, and versatility of young performers, all on the cusp of their professional careers.

THE HAZELWOOD DANCE SHOW

Jun,

Bringing their own special brand of magic to the stage of Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, students of Hazelwood Dance Studios guarantee to brighten your day with a show full of talent, colour, and variety.

aid of the Hazelwood Scholarship Fund.

OUR FRINGE FAVOURITES

SAP BY RAFAELLA MARCUS

Tue 9 May, 7.30pm | Tickets £10.80 - £15

A contemporary thriller with ancient roots. When a woman tells a lie to her girlfriend, a seed is planted that starts to grow in the darkness. Now roots are cracking up through the pavement and branches are coming in at the windows, and - as she starts to see things that no one else can - she becomes the focus of some seriously unwanted attention.

The award-winning theatre company Atticist and Ellie Keel Productions return with a new play based on an old myth about passion, power, and photosynthesis.

Age Guidance: 14+

SHEWOLVES

Thu 18 May, 7.30pm | Tickets £10.80 - £15

Armed with a backpack full of pop-tarts and a hunger to tackle climate change, Priya and Lou embark on a covert expedition into the wild. But when the wilderness closes in around them, can they overcome their differences to make their voices heard?

SHEWOLVES is an uplifting coming-of-age comedy for anyone who has ever been a teen.

Somewhere between Booksmart, The End of the F***ing World and Thelma & Louise . SHEWOLVES is a play about forging friendships when you’re a bit weird, the power of hope and the underestimated smartness of teens.

“Excellent script, funny and touching, dramatic and dynamic at its core.” - Paul Bourne, Menagerie Theatre

WATSON: THE FINAL PROBLEM

Tue 16 May, 7.30pm | Tickets £10.80 - £15

1984. Watson is alone. A broken man. His beloved wife Mary and the great Sherlock Holmes are gone. But London seethes with false reports and rumour. It is time for Watson to tell his story.

A tale of long buried secrets, betrayal and death! There is a shadow in the gutters of London. A spider’s web of poisonous intrigue lies across the city. Someone is playing a long game and Holmes and Watson must face their greatest ever challenge.

Based on the stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Performed by Tim Marriott (The Brittas Empire and ‘Allo ‘Allo) and written by Bert Coules (BBC’s The Further Adventures of Sherlock Holmes , Cadfael & Rebus).

PENNED UP

Mon 20 Feb, 7.30pm | Pay What You Can

Prisoners. Should we lock them up and throw away the key? Danusia Iwaszko has run script writing groups in male prisons for the last 15 years and in Penned Up she shares her experience. The prisoners usually join the group to get out of their cells for a couple of hours, but as they do, they break other chains that bind them.

A script-in-hand reading of a new play by Danusia Iwaszko (The Wisdom Club, A Labour of Love, Tough Love).

Supported by Arts Council England, Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, Synergy Theatre Project, Menagerie Theatre and The Production Exchange London.

MAGICAL BONES

Sat 20 May, 7.30pm | Tickets £10.80 - £22

Britain’s Got Talent finalist Magical Bones takes to the road with a brand-new show full of the most awe-inspiring and high-energy magic you’ll see this year. Direct from appearances on BBC1’s BAFTA Awards, ITV1’s This Morning and Sky’s Around the World in 80 Tricks .

“A dazzling show...full of imagination and flair.”

- The Guardian

LIMITED CAPACITY POST-SHOW EXPERIENCE 30 minutes of close-up magic with the opportunity for selfies for an additional £10 (only available when purchased with a ticket for the show).

Age Guidance: 10+

Thu 22 Jun, 7.30pm | Tickets £10.80 - £15 EXPRESS G&S

The “masters of Gilbert & Sullivan” present their side-splitting spoof of a classic railway murder mystery, while ripping through material from every single G&S opera with a cake soaked butter knife!

Get ready to be swept away on this topsy-turvy journey from Cornwall to Chancery Lane, from Titipu to the Tower of London, from Portsmouth to Fairyland - all aboard the G&S Express!

A trio of intriguing travellers (and a pianist) take on multiple characters, uncovering clue upon red herring in this extraordinary, inventive, witty murder mystery spoof, which is splattered with favourite songs from the Savoy operas including The Pirates of Penzance, The Mikado and H.M.S. Pinafore as well as some of those less performed.

A Trinity Theatre Production | Written by Arthur Miller | Directed by Sean Turner

Two years after the end of conflict, successful businessman Joe Keller must reckon with things he did to survive during World War Two, whilst he and his family come to terms with the loss of a son.

All My Sons is one of the true landmark plays of the 20th Century. It has stood the test of time, going from a state-of-the-nation play on its premiere to dangerously relevant fable today. Director, Sean Turner, returns to Miller’s work having discovered and directed the world premiere of his first play in 2015. No Villian opened at the Old Red Lion before receiving critical acclaim and transferring to the West End.

Arthur Miller is one of the most celebrated American playwrights of the 20th century. Among his most popular plays are All My Sons , Death of a Salesman , The Crucible , and A View From the Bridge.

In this startling new production of All My Sons , one of Miller’s greatest theatrical accomplishments will grip audiences again, 75 years after the story first left an auditorium stunned.

“With this thrilling discovery, Sean Turner has done a great service to Miller studies, but also to audiences in search of gripping and intelligent drama.” - The Guardian on No Villain

TUE WED THU FRI SAT 28 FEB 1 MAR 2 MAR 3 MAR 4 MAR 2pm 2pm

7.30pm

Tue 2 - Sat 6 May | Tickets £10.80 - £26

By John Godber. Directed by Adrian McDougall. Hilarious, high-energy and full-blooded, Teechers Leavers ‘22 brings to life an array of terrifying teachers and hopeless pupils through the eyes of Salty, Gail and Hobby; three Year 11 students facing a scary world, armed only with imagination and a joy of theatre.

It’s 2022 at Whitewall, a struggling academy that’s failed its Ofsted. The bell’s gone and they can’t afford a new one. The first 15 have lost 67 - 0 and the playing field needs levelling up. Sadly, Whitewall is led by donkeys. Enter Miss Nixon, a new drama teacher with a fire in her belly, a lesson for the elite and a well ‘sick’ Tik Tok!

Will Miss Nixon abandon her students for a soothing private school? Who puts the bounce in Miss Prime’s step, the PE teacher? Will Mrs Parry ever find her Koko? And why does everyone smell of spring onions?

Unplug, switch off and buckle up for the world premiere tour of Teechers Leavers ‘22 , John Godber’s breath-taking, breakneck comedy about education for the ‘haves’, the ‘have nots’, and a generation left behind.

“Teechers Leavers ‘22 hits home not only with the same laughter and punchy theatricality as the original, but also with the same political rage.” - The Guardian

Guidance: 11+

Discussion: Wed 3 May

TUE WED THU FRI SAT 2 MAY 3 MAY 4 MAY 5 MAY 6 MAY 2pm 2pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

FEBRUARY

THE MAGIC OF SCIENCE

Sun 12 Feb, 2pm | Tickets £15

Non-stop, action-packed, interactive, magical science experiments. Top Secret is a fast-moving science show inspiring and educating young magicians and scientists. Suitable for all ages.

TALES FROM ACORN WOOD

Thu 23 - Fri 24 Feb | Tickets £15

Poor old fox has lost his socks! Are they in the kitchen or inside the clock? And rat-a-tat-tat! Who’s that keeping tired rabbit awake?

THU FRI

23 FEB 24 FEB 2.30pm 10.30am 1.30pm

Toe-tapping songs, puppetry, and all of the friends from Acorn Wood. The perfect treat for all ages.

Age Guidance: 3 - 7

THE KING OF NOTHING

Tue 14 - Wed 15 Feb | Tickets £15

King Reginald likes to keep in style. Hearing of his passion for fashion, two fast-talking, unscrupulous Weavers bring news of a brand new fabric. It’s “smart”, it’s “in” and it’s just what the king needs. MONSTRO and Little Angel’s latest puppet musical is an anarchic retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s Emperor’sNewClothes . With songs, puppetry, slapstick and more, the two Weavers will weave their cunning magic on children and adults alike.

Age Guidance: 5+

TUE WED

14 FEB 15 FEB 11am 3pm 3pm

HALF TERM!

DINOSAUR ADVENTURE LIVE

Thu 16 - Fri 17 Feb | Tickets £15

65 million years in the making... are you ready for an adventure? Stomp, roar and swish your tail as we introduce you to some of the most incredible species ever to have lived on Earth. Learn their history with amazing facts and even meet baby dinosaurs. You could even come face-to-face with a T-Rex! But watch out, you could be on the menu!

This awe-inspiring interactive stage show captivates both young and young-at-heart, immersing audiences in the enthralling and

THU FRI 16 FEB 17 FEB 2pm 11am 4.30pm 2pm

realistic world of dinosaurs. You won’t want to miss it, it’s totally t-rex-iffic! Suitable for all ages.

THE LITTLE RED HEN

Sat 18 - Sun 19 Feb | Tickets £15

Making bread is hard work, but it would be a lot easier if the lazy farmyard animals got off their reclining sofas and lent a hand! Join our plucky little hen as she finds her own way to get stuff done. This spirited adaptation of a much-loved story brings to life a host of animal puppets through captivating songs and unforgettable comic routines. Invest in your children’s imaginations: share the magic of live theatre and take playfulness home with you!

Age Guidance: 3-10

SAT SUN 18 FEB 19 FEB 11am 3pm 3pm

FAMiLY

POP PRINCESSES

Sun 22 Jan, 2pm | Tickets £10.80 - £17.50

A music spectacular starring fabulous princesses who just love to sing. It’s the perfect mix!

Featuring a soundtrack of hits from artists such as Little Mix, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor, and Miley Cyrus, plus all the best songs from your favourite films and musicals. Suitable for all ages.

I SPY WITH MY LITTLE EYE

Sat 13 May, 2.30pm | Tickets £6.50 - £10.50

Molly and Bingo the dog would like you to join them for a very special I Spy With My Little Eye party to celebrate Molly’s 6th birthday. With all your favourite sing-along songs and lots of games to play, it’s going to be the best party ever!

Age Guidance: 2+

THE JUNGLE BOOK

Thu 13 Apr, 2pm & 5pm | Tickets £15

This original, larger-than-life musical will have you howling with laughter.

Filled with original music and audience interaction, join Mowgli and his friends on a mad-cap jungle adventure.

Immersion Theatre are thrilled to be reviving their critically-acclaimed musical adaptation of the Rudyard Kipling family favourite.

Age Guidance: 4+

FAvoURiTEs

THE SINGING MERMAID

Fri 2 - Sat 3 Jun | Tickets £15

The singing mermaid is tempted away to join a travelling circus with the promise of a life of excitement (and her own swimming pool!). The audiences love her singing but she soon finds out she’s been tricked by the dastardly circus master. Will she ever escape? And who will help her?

With three skilled performers, beautiful puppetry and music and songs, Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ hugely popular story comes to the stage.

Age Guidance: 3 - 8

FRI SAT 2 JUN 3 JUN 11am 11am 2pm 2pm 4pm

A play with music inspired by the book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler

THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE

Fri 9 - Sun 11 Jun | Tickets £15

A heart-warming adventure for the whole family, from the fantastic company that brought you The Gruffalo .

Longing to see the world, a tiny sea snail hitches a lift on the tail of a great big, grey-blue humpback whale. Together they go on an amazing journey, brought vividly to life through live music, storytelling and lots of laughs.

Age Guidance: 4+

“Captivating, inventive storytelling”

WhatsOnStage Edinburgh Festivals for Kids Broadway Baby

FRI SAT SUN 9 JUN 10 JUN 11 JUN 11am 11am 2pm 2.30pm 2.30pm

THEATRE ROYAL

NATIONAL THEATRE CONNECTIONSYOUTH THEATRE

“I love Youth Theate because I can have time with my friends and we play great games. We also get a lot of experience and it is all so fun!” Iris, Aged 12, Participant

JUNIORS (8-11s)

Mondays, 4.30pm - 6pm Saturdays, 11am - 12.30pm

SENIORS (12-16s)

Wednesdays, 5pm - 7pm Thursdays, 5pm - 7pm

YOUNG COMPANY (16-22s)

Thursdays, 7pm - 9pm

SENSORY YOUTH THEATRE

These groups support young people who are learning disabled or neurodivergent to participate in non-verbal creative play in a fun and friendly environment.

“I take part and enjoy the fun a lot and some people with disabilities I meet, I get to know a lot of them and I am really happy about that.”

Christian, Aged 11, Participant

JUNIORS (8-12s)

Tuesdays, 4pm - 4.40pm

SENIORS (13-18s)

Tuesdays, 5pm - 5.40pm

To register interest for a Youth Theatre group, contact engagement@theatreroyal.org

Youth Theatre Non-Verbal

Supported by

TUESDAY BY ALISON CARR

Performed by Theatre Royal Young Company, in association with National Theatre Connections 2023.

The play centres on an ordinary Tuesday that suddenly turns very weird indeed when a tear rips across the sky over the school yard. The play explores themes of friendship, sibling love, family, identity, grief, bullying, loneliness, and responsibility. In the process, we will learn something about astronomical theories of the multiverse and just maybe, about ourselves too!

Age Guidance: 8+

Thu 30 - Fri 31 Mar, 7.30pm | Tickets £7

YOUTH THEATRE

SMALL FRY BY NEIL DUFFIELD

Performed by Theatre Royal 8-11 Youth Theatre groups, Small Fry follows a battle between the Predators and Scavengers for the gold coins which are guarded by the local Dragon.

Focusing on themes of power, ownership and belonging, Small Fry showcases the power of the little people in this everchanging and greed-hungry world.

Neil Duffield is the winner of the Arts Council England Children’s Award.

Age Guidance: 6+

The rights for this production have been gifted to us by Neil Duffield in memory of Karen Simpson.

THE CHANGING ROOM BY CHRIS BUSH

Performed by the Theatre Royal 12-16 Youth Theatre Groups

Sometimes adults can forget what it is like to be a teenager, the excitement, the impatience and the uncertainty.

Set by the edge of a swimming pool, The Changing Room explores the secrets and anxieties which affect young people in today’s society. The Changing Room allows us to understand what being a teenager is like through the voices of young people. Includes original songs, so come along and dive into a new world.

Guidance: 8+

Tue 23 - Sat 27 May | Tickets £10.80 - £29

Adapted for the stage by Emma Rice.

A dazzling adaptation of the greatest love story of all time.

When a chance encounter in a train station tearoom kindles a timid, yet passionate, love affair between a married doctor and a suburban housewife, the two are forced to question if it’s worth risking everything for the sake of love.

Tender and joyous, this show has all the drama of the original masterpiece with added live music, comedy and spectacle, taking you on a rollercoaster ride through all of love’s beautiful complications.

Brief Encounter is adapted by award-winning theatre-maker Emma Rice, directed by the New Wolsey Theatre’s new Chief Executive Douglas Rintoul (Made in Dagenham, Private Lives, and All My Sons) and brought to you by the producers behind The Ladykillers and The Worst Wedding Ever.

Captioned Performance: All performances will be captioned Audio Described Performance: Audio Description is available for all performances BSL Performance: Sat 27 May, 2pm

TUE WED THU FRI SAT 23 MAY 24 MAY 25 MAY 26 MAY 27 MAY 2pm 2pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

Tue 27 Jun - Sat 1 Jul | Tickets £10.80 - £29

Directed by Michael Cabot.

It was 1977, the year of skin-tight polyester, the Queen’s Silver Jubilee and SaturdayNightFever . The Sex Pistols were storming up the charts, skateboarding was the latest craze and Angela Rippon danced with Morecambe and Wise.

And at Hampstead Theatre in London, Mike Leigh and his cast were putting the finishing touches to Abigail’s Party, a ferocious black comedy and landmark of 20th-century theatre.

In her suburban living room, Beverly prepares for the arrival of her guests. She and husband Laurence will play host to neighbours Angela, Tony and Sue. As the alcohol flows and the ‘nibbles’ are handed around, Mike Leigh’s ruthless, achingly funny examination of 1970s British life begins...

Abigail’s Party was premiered at the Hampstead Theatre in 1977, with the role of Beverly being immortalised by Alison Steadman. A record 16 million people watched its broadcast as Play for Today, underlining its status as a true modern classic and national treasure.

Age Guidance: 14+

Captioned Performance: Wed 28 Jun, 7.30pm

Touch Tour: Thu 29 Jun, 6.30pm

Audio Described Performance: Thu 29 Jun, 7.30pm

TUE WED THU FRI SAT 27 JUN 28 JUN 29 JUN 30 JUN 1 JUL 2pm 2pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

SPECIAL EVENTS

CALL MY BLUFF: THE WINE QUIZ

Thu 16 Mar, 7.30pm | Tickets £25

Join us at the Hunter Club for this wine quiz with a difference! Test your knowledge of wine against the wit and expertise of a panel of bluffers as they bluff, and double bluff, as you guess and quaff! Enjoy a riotous evening of laughs, fun and fine wine, hosted by Nethergate Wines.

Ticket includes welcome drink and wine, plus pates, cheese, and bread!

This is a Theatre Royal Friends Committee fundraising event to support Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds (Registered Charity Number 242977).

GOLF DAY AT THETFORD GOLF CLUB

Thu 20 Apr | Tickets £160 per team

Enter a team of four for a relaxed and fun day of golf at one of East Anglia’s top golf coursesThetford Golf Club.

The format for the day is the best 3 out of 4 stableford scores per team. There is a generous prize table and raffle.

Enjoy coffee and a bacon roll on arrival and fish and chips in the clubhouse after your round (included in the entry fee).

Tee times start from 8am We offer our grateful thanks to Ian Duncan for organising this event - our tenth golf day!

These events are fundraising events in support of Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds. Registered charity number 242977.

HIDDEN GARDENS OF BURY

Sun 2 Jul, 11am - 5pm

We were delighted to welcome so many visitors to our theatre garden for Hidden Gardens of Bury St Edmunds in 2022, so we’re back this year! Visit www.hiddengardens.co.uk to book your tickets. This event is in aid of St Nicholas Hospice.

THE MAGIC OF THE MUSICALS

Fri 16 Jun, 7.30pm | Tickets £12 - £22

Join Bury St Edmunds Operatic and Dramatic Society for an exciting celebration of musical theatre old and new!

Broadway and West End hits from Oklahoma! to Dear Evan Hansen and Sweeney Todd to Come From Away.

Bar Snacks & Refreshments

NEW! Free mini Theatre Tour tasters

Spend an evening enjoying an exhilirating snapshot of musicals through the ages!

This is a joint fundraiser for BSEODS (Registered Charity Number 278388) and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds (Registered Charity Number 242977).

Bury St Edmunds Concert Band will return in May with another fantastic concert. Keep an eye on our website for more information coming soon!

ACT YOUR AGE WORKSHOPS

Act Your Age is Theatre Royal Bury St Edmund’s theatre group for over 55s who have a love of the theatre.

Each term members work with a team of theatre professionals to experience the enjoyment of professionally-led workshops. This group allows you to be creative, all whilst making lasting friendships.

Act Your Age is a regular group and we work on a new theme each term. We are always on the lookout for new members to join us. No previous theatre experience is necessary!

When do we meet? Tuesdays, 1.30pm - 3pm at Theatre Royal.

Come and try something new. To find out more and apply, email engagement@theatreroyal.org

WORKSHOPS FOR OVER 55s “Act Your Age are brilliant sessions, not only is it fun and full of laughs, it encourages everyone to throw themselves into it. Having the beautiful Theatre Royal as a venue is amazing and I have enjoyed every minute of it.”

- Ann, Aged 68, Participant

LOCAL AMATEUR PRODUCTIONS

IRVING STAGE COMPANY

MURDER ON THE NILE

Tue 18 - Sat 22 Apr | Tickets £10.80 - £19

Heiress Kay Ridgeway embarks on a Nile cruise accompanied by her new husband, surrounded by colourful characters who have reason to hate her. When a shocking murder occurs, clergyman Canon Pennefather must assume the role of detective to uncover an extraordinary conspiracy.

Agatha Christie’s stage adaptation of her novel, Death on the Nile, is set in the golden age of mystery and suspense.

This amateur production of Murder on the Nile is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk

TUE WED THU FRI SAT

18 APR 19 APR 20 APR 21 APR 22 APR 2pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

BURY ST EDMUNDS AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY

SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE

Tue 25 - Sat 29 Apr | Tickets £10.80 - £20

William Shakespeare is tormented by writer’s block until he meets Viola de Lesseps, whose fiery passion for poetry leaves her secretly longing to be an actor. Viola’s father has promised her to the stuffy Lord Wessex to gain a family title, but under the veil of secrecy, Will and Viola’s passionate love affair becomes the basis of Romeo and Juliet. With opening night - and Viola’s wedding - fast approaching, will it work out in the end or are the star-crossed lovers destined for tragedy.

Captioned Performance: Wed 26 Apr, 7.30pm

Post-Show Discussion: Thu 27 Apr

TUE WED THU FRI SAT

25 APR 26 APR 27 APR 28 APR 29 APR 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

LUNCHTIME CONCERTS

BRAZILIEROS

BRAZILIAN CHOROS | SOUTH AMERICAN | DANCE MUSIC

WED 1 FEB

Led by Anna Noakes (flute) and returning by popular demand, our favourite Brazilian-style trio will melt the winter blues away with stunning Brazilian choros, dance music, and South American sounds.

PETRA HAJDUCHOVA

HARPISCHORD | BAROQUE | BOHEMIAN | ROCK | EUROPEAN

WED 15 MAR

From Baroque to Rock! An exciting programme of Bohemian and European Baroque to contemporary - which may include traditional JS Bach, Dussek and Scarlatti, or even Stephen Montague and surprising electronic effects!

YALDA DAVIS

SOLO CELLO | BACH | IRISH AIRS | PABLO CASALS

WED 19 APR 1.10PM

During lockdown, Yalda kept calm and carried on playing - in medieval churches raising money for charities! Come and enjoy her favourite solo works from this amazing feat, including a Bach Suite, Irish airs and work from Pablo Casals.

THE CHAMPAGNE QUARTET

CLASSICS | JAZZ | POPULAR ARRANGEMENTS | STRING QUARTET

WED 24 MAY 1.10PM

Famous in Felixstowe, the Champagne Quartet recorded a CD sent to HM The Queen for her Jubilee. Pop in for lunch and hear sparkling light classics, jazz, and toe-tapping popular arrangements from Bach to The Beatles!

TICKETS ARE £10 EACH AND INCLUDE REFRESHMENTS AFTER THE PERFORMANCE

Lunchtime Concerts Sponsored by Ellisons Solicitors

BOOKING

BOOK ONLINE

Booking is quick and easy on our website; you can spend theatre credit from your account, redeem gift vouchers, gain group discounts, book parking and more! theatreroyal.org/bookinginformation.

Alternatively, you can book via our Box Office in person or by calling us on 01284 769505, Monday to Saturday 10am-6pm.

GROUPS & SCHOOLS

Groups of 10+ receive a 5% discount and groups of 25+ receive a 10% discount when all tickets are booked in one transaction.

For pantomime, group offers are available on off-peak performances.

Schools tickets are £10.80 each with every 11th ticket free. Pantomime schools tickets are £10.50 each (2022/23), £10.80 (2023/24).

To find out more, email groupbookings@theatreroyal.org

EARLY BOOKING

Our ticket prices are subject to change as the theatre fills, so book early to secure your favourite seats at the best possible price.

TICKET REFUND PROTECTION

Tickets are non-refundable, so for peace of mind, you can now protect your tickets from the unexpected for just £1.50 per ticket. See full information on our website and add Ticket Protection when buying your tickets.

CUSTOMERS WITH ACCESS NEEDS

In order that we can best accommodate your requirements, please book via our Box Office on 01284 769505 or by emailing booking@theatreroyal.org and we will help find the seat most suitable for you. Those unable to attend the theatre alone are offered a complimentary assisting companion ticket.

CAR PARK

Greene King Staff Car Park is available for evening and weekend performances only. It is not available for weekday matinees. Access is via Cullum Road (A1302 - signposted “Westgate Brewery”).

SIGHTLINES

Theatre Royal is an historic, horseshoe shaped, Georgian auditorium which means that some seats have a restricted view of the stage for some performances. Seats in the Dress Circle boxes A, B, C, Q, R and S, Upper Circle boxes A, B, C, N, P and Q and Gallery rows C and D are marked as restricted view for some productions.

To check the view from seats, we have a 360° view of the theatre that can be found at theatreroyal.org/360-tour/

KEY

T Theatre House Seat - Not available for purchase.

W Wheelchair Space - Book via Box Office.

A Assisting Companion - Book via Box Office.

Restricted View - Suitable for anyone above 5ft.

Restricted Leg Room - Suitable for anyone below 5ft.

supporters

WE ARE SO GRATEFUL TO OUR WONDERFUL PATRONS, FRIENDS, DONOR FRIENDS, SPONSORS AND MAJOR DONORS FOR THE ONGOING SUPPORT THEY GIVE TO THEATRE ROYAL, WITHOUT THEM WE SIMPLY COULD NOT EXIST AND WE OFFER OUR HEARTFELT THANKS TO THEM.

THEATRE ROYAL PATRONS & MAJOR DONORS

Joan Abbs, Nancy Ackland-Lang, George Agnew and Adrian White, Suzanne Alston, Jennifer and Nicholas Antill, Alix and Robert Ashton, Daria and Kit Aspen, Gary Avis MBE, Robert and Sally Baxter, Bob and Sally Beckett, Countess Helen Benckendorff, Lee and Angela Berry, Christopher Biggins, Christine Bird, Ben and Katie Birrell, Sarah Birrell, Derek Blake MBE and Valerie Blake, Stephen and Stephanie Bourne, Joy Bowes, Gyles Brandreth, Stuart Brennan, Marie Brown and in memory of Tony Brown, Julie Bryant, William and Lynn Cardale, Laura Carmichael, Sir Geoffrey and Lady Cass, Gordon Cawthorne MBE and in memory of Judith Cawthorne, Richard Chaplin, Michael Chisholm, Marcus and Sophie Codrington-Fernandez, David Cossart, Sian Couture, Louise Cramp, The Croft Family, Rev. David Crofts, Jane and Michael Crowe, Yvonne Curtis, Lady Mary Damerell, Patrick and Heide Daniels, Piers Day, Nicholas Denyer, Michelle Dockery, David and Barbara Dougan, Ian and Alison Duncan, The Fabulous Fascia Co Ltd, Andrew Flatt, Emma Fisher, Vivien Gainsborough Foot, Keith and Mary Gallois, Sarah George, Jayne Gittus, Philip Glenister, Robert Glenister, Richard and Anne Greenfield, Judith Grandi, Bryan Hamilton, Kit Hesketh Harvey, Nigel Havers, The Very Rev’d Joe Hawes and The Rev’d Christopher Eyden, David and Gillian Hodge, Sam Hughan, John Meers and Jo Holden, Stephen Hubner, Roy Hudd OBE and Debbie Hudd, Eric and Hazel Humphreys, Antony Hurden, Sir Derek Jacobi CBE, Peter Jackson CBE and in memory of Ann Jackson, Alex Jennings, Christina Johnston, Lesley Joseph, Jim and Carol Keohane, Nicholas Law and Susan Tanis, Malcolm Leith and Amanda Wearing, Barry Lingwood, Dame Maureen Lipman DBE, Bryan and Emma Littlefair, Andrew Long and Gina Long MBE, Karl and Annette Ludvigsen, John Meers and Jo Holden, Janet Martin, Sir Ian McKellen CH CBE, Peter and Julie Merrick, Nic and Kat Metcalfe, Martin and Sylvia Moss, David and Pauline Mulley, Marguerite Nice, Alan O’Connor, John and Maureen Orange, Irene and David Overman, Jeffrey Parker, Sir Michael Parkinson CBE, Nicholas Pearson OBE and Fiona Pearson, Mark Pendlington DL, Fiona Phillipps, Heather Phillips, Mary Porch, Clare Presland, Libby Purves OBE, Roger and Thelma Quince, Sue Rawlinson, Michael Redgrave, Mike and Kate Redmond, Jo St Clair Roberts, Susan Roberts, James Robertson, Paul Romaine, Michael and Margaret Rustin, Prunella Scales CBE, Sue Scrivener, John Sergeant, Michael Shallow and Judith Shallow DL, Alice Sheepshanks, Graham Showell, John Simpson CBE, Charles and Suzanne Simpson, Sue and Dick Soper, Simon Spence QC, Jo Stark, Sha Starr, Christian and Susan Stenderup, Richard and Heulwen Stewart, Steven and Kimonie Stroud, Dame Janet Suzman DBE, Meriel Sykes, David Taylor, Nick and Rosemary Thomson, Patricia Thompson CBE, Fiona Unwin, Terry Waite CBE, Julia Wakelam, Dame Harriet Walter DBE, Christine Webber, Peter Wenban and Sarah Wenban CBE, Timothy West CBE, Sam West, Deborah Williams, In memory of Gabrielle Woodward, The Association Management Company, Theatre Royal Friends Committee and the generous donors of The Show Will Go On! – Theatre Royal’s Reopening Appeal (2020).

DATE PERFORMANCE AM PM EVE

Sat 21 Jan A Century of Swing 7.30pm

Sun 22 Jan Pop Princesses 2pm

Sat 28 Jan Jumping the Shark Previews 2pm 7.30pm

Tue 31 Jan Jumping the Shark 7.30pm

Wed 1 Feb Brazilieros (Concert) 1.10pm

Wed 1 Feb Jumping the Shark 7.30pm

Thu 2 Feb Jumping the Shark 2pm 7.30pm

Fri 3 Feb Jumping the Shark 7.30pm

Sat 4 Feb Jumping the Shark 2pm 7.30pm

Sat 11 Feb Daliso Chaponda 7.30pm

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

Sun 12 Feb The Magic of Science 2pm

Tue 14 Feb The King of Nothing 3pm

Wed 15 Feb The King of Nothing 11am 3pm

Thu 16 Feb Dinosaur Adventure Live 2pm & 4.30pm

Fri 17 Feb Dinosaur Adventure Live 11am 2pm

Sat 18 Feb The Little Red Hen 3pm

Sun 19 Feb The Little Red Hen 11am 3pm

Mon 20 Feb Penned Up! Rehearsed Reading 7.30pm

Wed 22 Feb Theatre Royal Comedy Club 7.30pm

Thu 23 Feb Tales from Acorn Wood 2.30pm

Fri 24 Feb Tales from Acorn Wood 10.30am 1.30pm

Tue 28 Feb All My Sons 7.30pm

Wed 1 Mar All My Sons 7.30pm

Thu 2 Mar All My Sons 2pm 7.30pm

Fri 3 Mar All My Sons 7.30pm

Sat 4 Mar All My Sons 2pm 7.30pm

Fri 10 Mar The Children 7.30pm

Sat 11 Mar The Children 2pm 7.30pm

Tue 14 Mar The Children 7.30pm

Wed 15 Mar Petra Hajduchova (Concert) 1.10pm

Wed 15 Mar The Children 7.30pm

DATE PERFORMANCE AM PM EVE

Thu 16 Mar Call My Bluff: The Wine Quiz 7.30pm

Thu 16 Mar The Children 2pm 7.30pm

Fri 17 Mar The Children 7.30pm

Sat 18 Mar The Children 2pm 7.30pm

Tue 21 Mar The Children 7.30pm

Wed 22 Mar The Children 7.30pm

Thu 23 Mar The Children 2pm 7.30pm

Fri 24 Mar The Children 7.30pm

Sat 25 Mar The Children 2pm 7.30pm

EASTER HOLIDAYS

Thu 30 Mar NT Connections: Tuesday 7.30pm

Fri 31 Mar NT Connections: Tuesday 7.30pm

Sat 1 Apr Come What May 7.30pm

Tue 4 Apr Youth Theatre Presents 7pm

Wed 5 Apr Youth Theatre Presents 2pm 7pm

Fri 7 Apr Youth Theatre Presents 7pm

Sat 8 Apr Youth Theatre Presents 2pm 7pm

Thu 13 Apr The Jungle Book 2pm 5pm

Sat 15 Apr The Elton John Show 7.30pm

Tue 18 Apr Murder on the Nile 7.30pm

Wed 19 Apr Yalda Davis (Concert) 1.10pm

Wed 19 Apr Murder on the Nile 7.30pm

Thu 20 Apr Golf Day 8am - 5pm

Thu 20 Apr Murder on the Nile 7.30pm

Fri 21 Apr Murder on the Nile 7.30pm

Sat 22 Apr Murder on the Nile 2pm 7.30pm

Tue 25 Apr Shakespeare in Love 7.30pm

Wed 26 Apr Shakespeare in Love 7.30pm

Thu 27 Apr Shakespeare in Love 7pm

Fri 28 Apr Shakespeare in Love 7.30pm

Sat 29 Apr Shakespeare in Love 2.30pm 7.30pm

Tue 2 May Teechers Leavers ‘22 7.30pm

DATE PERFORMANCE AM PM EVE

Wed 3 May Teechers Leavers ‘22 7.30pm

Thu 4 May Teechers Leavers ‘22 2pm 7.30pm

Fri 5 May Teechers Leavers ‘22 7.30pm

Sat 6 May Teechers Leavers ‘22 2pm 7.30pm

Tue 9 May SAP (Fringe) 7.30pm

Thu 11 May Ballet Central Tour 2023 7.30pm

Fri 12 May Lucy Porter: Wake-Up Call 7.30pm

Sat 13 May I Spy With My Little Eye 2.30pm

Tue 16 May Watson: The Final Problem (Fringe) 7.30pm

Wed 17 May Theatre Royal Comedy Club 7.30pm

Thu 18 May SHEWOLVES (Fringe) 7.30pm

Sat 20 May Magical Bones 7.30pm

Tue 23 May Brief Encounter 7.30pm

Wed 24 May The Champagne Quartet (Concert) 1.10pm

Wed 24 May Brief Encounter 7.30pm

Thu 25 May Brief Encounter 2pm 7.30pm

Fri 26 May Brief Encounter 7.30pm

Sat 27 May Brief Encounter 2pm 7.30pm

MAY HALF TERM

Fri 2 Jun The Singing Mermaid 11am 2pm & 4pm

Sat 3 Jun The Singing Mermaid 11am 2pm

Sun 4 Jun The Hazelwood Dance Show 4pm

Thu 8 Jun The Carpenters 7.30pm

Fri 9 Jun The Snail and the Whale 2pm

Sat 10 Jun The Snail and the Whale 11am 2.30pm

Sun 11 Jun The Snail and the Whale 11am 2.30pm

Fri 16 Jun The Magic of the Musicals Fundraiser 7.30pm

Sun 18 Jun Turning the Air Green 7.30pm

Thu 22 Jun Express G&S 7.30pm

Sat 24 Jun The Take That Experience 7.30pm

Tue 27 Jun Abigail’s Party 7.30pm

Wed 28 Jun Abigail’s Party 7.30pm

DATE PERFORMANCE AM PM EVE

Thu 29 Jun Abigail’s Party 2pm 7.30pm

Fri 30 Jun Abigail’s Party 7.30pm

Sat 1 Jul Abigail’s Party 2pm 7.30pm

Sun 2 Jul Hidden Gardens 11am - 5pm

ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES

CAPTIONED PERFORMANCES

The Children - Wed 22 Mar, 7.30pm

Shakespeare in Love - Wed 26 Apr, 7pm

Brief Encounter - Wed 24 May, 7.30pm

Abigail’s Party - Wed 28 Jun, 7.30pm

AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCES

The Children - Thu 23 Mar, 7.30pm

Brief Encounter - Audio Description will be available for all performances

Abigail’s Party - Thu 29 Jun, 7.30pm

TOUCH TOURS - Please book with Box Office.

The Children - Thu 23 Mar, 6.30pm

Abigail’s Party - Thu 29 Jun, 6.30pm

BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETED PERFORMANCES

Brief Encounter - Sat 27 May, 2pm

THEATRE TOURS

Visit our website for current dates & times

Tickets: £5 - £10

Led by our enthusiastic team of Tour Guides, you’ll travel around the theatre, taking in the building and all of its history, from front-ofhouse to behind-the-scenes.

Step on up and into the spotlight where the likes of Ian McKellan CBE, Dame Judi Dench DBE, Sir Peter Hall CBE and many more have gone before you.