Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Spring 2014

THEATRE ROYAL BURY ST EDMUNDS SPRING 2014 Programme

JANUARY – MAy 2014

BOX OFFICE www.theatreroyal.org or 01284 769505

Welcome to the SPRING Season sponsored by PRIORITY BOOKING OPENS Wed 20 November at 10am General Booking ONLINE OPens Sat 23 November at 6pm General Booking OPens Mon 25 November at 10am

Box Office Mon – Sat, 10am – 6pm

01284 769505

Welcome to my very first season as the new Director of the Theatre Royal. I want you to be enthralled by what you experience and eager to return again and again.

The Theatre Royal is a very special place and in the new season we offer drama, dance, music and comedy from a range of top international companies alongside some of the leading artists from across the UK. We have a fantastic range of drama including world premieres, classics and the very best new work on our stage. There are performances to mark the anniversary of the start of World War I, a wonderful Valentine’s weekend of music and dance, and a fabulous programme for all the family at the Theatre and around Suffolk.

It has been very exciting creating this programme and I am delighted to thank our funders, sponsors, Patrons and Friends for their continued support together with our many volunteers who work so hard throughout the year. This is the start of a new era for the Theatre Royal. Enjoy…

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DIRECTOR / Karen Simpson

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

Gary De’ath

Gross & Company Solicitors are delighted to extend their longstanding support of the Theatre Royal by sponsorship of their Spring Season.

We have a well earned reputation for providing clients with effective and practical legal advice. We are Top Ranked

by Chambers Directory of UK Lawyers as a result of independent, objective research. Though based in East Anglia, our reputation has attracted private and business clients from locations throughout the UK and more than 40 countries worldwide.

Tel: 01284 763333 www.gross.co.uk

H DRAMA SAVER H Book four of these drama highlights and get the fifth free

EGUSI SOUP This May Hurt a Bit Twelfth Night She Stoops to Conquer RISING DAMP Tickets must be purchased in the same booking, valid only on £20 tickets.

DRAMA / Menagerie and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds

egusi soup

DRAMA HIGHLIGHTS

Thursday 20 – Saturday 22 February

by Janice Okoh, directed by Paul Bourne A spicy comedy about love, life, loss and… packing!

As the Anyias, a British-Nigerian family, pack their suitcases and prepare to head home to Lagos for a memorial service in honour of the late Mr Anyia, they soon realise they will need to get rid of some excess baggage first!

After a successful run at London’s Soho Theatre in 2012 the Theatre Royal are very excited to welcome this brilliantly funny play.

‘Extraordinary writing and acting talent… a triumph’ HHHH Public Reviews Age Guidance 16+ H DRAMA SAVER H

TICKETS A B C RV Thurs 20 – Sat 22 at 7.30pm £20 £16 £12 £8.50 Sat 22 at 2.30pm £16 £12 £10 £8.50

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DRAMA HIGHLIGHTS Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Thursday 6 – Saturday 15 March DRAMA / Out of Joint and Octagon Theatre Bolton

This May Hurt A Bit

by Stella Feehily directed by Max Stafford-Clark, designed by Tim Shortall, lighting by Jason Taylor, sound by Andy Smith World premiere at the Theatre Royal prior to its West End run.

‘It would be a great reform in politics if wisdom could be made to spread as easily and rapidly as folly’ Winston Churchill With characteristic wit, tenderness, and dives into surrealism, Stella Feehily’s new play explores one family’s journey through the digestive system of the NHS, and asks: what is the prognosis for this much-loved, and fiercely debated, institution?

‘Feehily's excellent new play explodes onto the stage. This is a play that has much to say - and say with great acuity and wit’ Oxford Times on Bang Bang Bang ‘Genuinely heartbreaking… Genuinely hilarious’ Metro on O Go My Man H DRAMA SAVER H TICKETS A B C RV

Thurs 6 –Sat 8 & Wed 12 – Sat 15 at 7.30pm Tues 11 at 7.30pm, Sat 8 & Sat 15 at 2.30pm Wed 12 at 2pm

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£20 £16 £12 £8.50 £16 £12 £10 £8.50 £10 £10 £10 £8.50

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This production is supported by Frank and Elizabeth Brenan

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* WORLD PREMIERE ***

DRAMA HIGHLIGHTS

Tuesday 18 – Saturday 22 March DRAMA / Filter in association with the Royal Shakespeare Company

by William Shakespeare created by Filter, directed by Sean Holmes Two worlds collide in Filter’s explosive new take on Shakespeare’s lyrical Twelfth Night.

Olivia’s melancholic, puritanical household clashes head on with Sir Toby’s insatiable appetite for drunken debauchery. Orsino’s relentless pursuit of Olivia and Malvolio’s extraordinary transformation typify the madness of love in Illyria: land of make-believe and illusion. This story of romance, satire and mistaken identity is crafted into one of the most exciting and accessible Shakespeare productions of recent years.

Experience the madness of love in this heady world where riotous gig meets Shakespeare.

‘Rock and Roll Shakespeare’s a blast… Filter is a company blessed with wit, style and a touch of magic… This irreverent and inventive Twelfth Night never outstays its welcome…’

Daily Telegraph HHHHH The Independent H DRAMA SAVER H

TICKETS A B C RV

Tues 18 at 7.30pm & Sat 22 at 2.30pm £16 £12 £10 £8.50 Wed 19 – Sat 22 at 7.30pm £20 £16 £12 £8.50 Wed 19 & Thurs 20 at 2pm £10 £10 £10 £8.50

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DRAMA HIGHLIGHTS

Tuesday 22 – Saturday 26 April DRAMA / The Original Theatre Company and Birdsong Productions LTd

Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

STAGE VERSION BY

Rachel Wagstaff

directed BY

ALASTAIR WHATLEY

Marking the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War, Birdsong is the hit, critically acclaimed, stage show based on the world famous novel by Sebastian Faulks.

In pre-war France, a young Englishman, Stephen Wraysford, embarks on a passionate and dangerous affair with the beautiful Isabelle Azaire that turns their world upside down.

A mesmerising story of love and courage. Set both before and during the Great War. Following on from last year’s national tour, seen by over 75,000 people, now it is your chance to experience this stunning piece of theatre, live on stage.

‘A moving and stunning performance’ HHHHH WhatsOnStage.com ‘It left me choked up and blinking back the tears at the end.’

HHHH The Daily Telegraph TICKETS A B C RV

Tues 22 at 7.30pm & Sat 26 at 2.30pm £20 £16 £12 £8.50 Wed 23 – Sat 26 at 7.30pm £25 £25 £16 £8.50 Wed 23 & Thurs 24 at 2pm £16 £10 £10 £8.50

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@birdsongthetour

100TH ANNIVERSARY WWI

DRAMA HIGHLIGHTS

Tuesday 13 – Saturday 17 May DRAMA / Creative Cow

She Stoops to Conquer

by Oliver Goldsmith With mayhem and merriment, this classic comedy by Oliver Goldsmith revels in the mistakes and misunderstandings that come together to create a heart-warming, hilarious evening.

Marlow stutters and quivers around educated and well-to-do young women, so when his father sets him up with his old friend’s daughter Kate, he is totally tongue-tied!

But Kate Hardcastle’s attraction to her nervous suitor leads her to embrace a new and rather different persona to win him over…

Meanwhile playboy Tony Lumpkin plays a practical joke on the unsuspecting Marlow, leading to social disarray and confusion on a Shakespearean level!

This is Creative Cow’s second visit to the Theatre Royal following their production of Charley’s Aunt.

‘The Rivals is not only tackled, but wrestled to the floor in a flurry of ruffled wigs, corsets and impeccable comic timing’ WhatsOnStage.com H DRAMA SAVER H

TICKETS A B C RV

Tues 13 at 7.30pm & Sat 17 at 2.30pm £16 £12 £10 £8.50 Wed 14 – Sat 17 at 7.30pm £20 £16 £12 £8.50 Wed 14 & Thurs 15 at 2pm £10 £10 £10 £8.50

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Post-Show TalkOut: Thurs 14 November

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DRAMA / Comedy Theatre Company

by Eric Chappell ITV’s top comedy of all time, Rising Damp, comes to the stage in a brand-new production from the Comedy Theatre Company, producers of the stage versions of Victoria Wood’s Dinnerladies and BBC TV’s Birds of a Feather.

An un-named northern university town is home to Rupert Rigsby, landlord of arguably the seediest, most run-down boarding house that England has to offer. His unlucky tenants include Ruth Jones, an administrator at the university, Alan, a medical student and Philip, who is studying town and country planning. Between them, Alan and Philip are the focus and foil of the majority of Rigsby’s many prejudices, usually at the expense of his dignity and standing in the eyes of Miss Jones, with whom he is hopelessly and pathetically in love.

‘The stage version of ITV’s best and certainly most highly-respected sitcom to date, Rising Damp shines as a masterwork and is a real highlight. Writer Eric Chappell’s fabulous dialogue sparkles to this day. There’s really not much more we can say – it’s just a fantastic night out all-round’ British Comedy Guide H DRAMA SAVER H

TICKETS

A B C RV Tues 27 at 7.30pm & Sat 31 at 2.30pm £20 £16 £12 £8.50 Wed 28 – Sat 31 at 7.30pm £25 £21 £16 £8.50 Wed 28 at 2pm £16 £14 £10 £8.50

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Cast: Spring Tour 2013

DRAMA HIGHLIGHTS Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Tuesday 27 – Saturday 31 May

FAMILY

Children‘s Shows Join a variety of colourful characters in some surprising stories with our shows for children aged 3 and upwards this Spring.

y est Bestest Pla B ’s la o L d n a Charlie Sat 19 April Thurs 17 –

Hansel and Gretel off th e Sofa Sat 15 – Sat 22 Februa ry

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SE E PAG E 19

ad a Farm H ld a n o D Old Mac 1 February PSAEGE Fri 2

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Dinosaur Zoo

Tues 1 – Wed 2 April

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Lunchtime Concerts / Pantomime / January

Lunchtime Concerts at The Theatre Royal, 1.10pm

Fri 17 January

PANTOMIME / Theatre Royal Bury St EdmundS

AN AUDIENCE WITH…

A Traditional Family Pantomime

An audience with

by Daniel O’Brien directed by Tim Welton, designed by Nigel Hook

A chance to meet Dr Jonathan Miller – one of our most renowned theatre and opera directors. Despite training as a doctor in the late 1950’s, Miller came to public prominence as part of the comedy revue Beyond the Fringe with Peter Cook, Dudley Moore and Alan Bennett. He is also a satirist, humourist, public intellectual and TV personality.

Sponsored by

Mon 24 February

Christine Stevenson piano Christine Stevenson enjoys a distinguished career as a piano recitalist and concerto soloist throughout the UK and abroad. Her programme will be a journey through the musical connections between Schumann, Chopin, Liszt and Debussy.

Mon 31 March

‘My Brother Benjamin’

by Beth Britten discussed by Britten’s niece, Sally Schweizer with Nick Cooper cello The younger of Benjamin Britten's two sisters, Beth Britten first published this wonderful portrait of their shared Lowestoft family upbringing in 1986. The discussion will be followed by Britten’s 3rd Cello Suite by ex-LSO cellist Nick Cooper, and a book signing by Beth’s daughter, Sally. Order your copy in advance – see our website for more details.

Mon 14 April

David Gough guitar Danielle Perrett harp Leading period and concert harpist, Danielle Perrett, joins forces with her husband, David Gough, best known for his TV and film scores, including the soundtrack for Persuasion, on guitar. They will bring a programme of popular toe-tapping classics for all the family to enjoy.

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Fri 29 November 2013 – Sun 12 January 2014

TICKETS £8 or book all three for £20

Complimentary tea, coffee and cakes after the concert.

Aladdin

Join us for our traditional family pantomime bursting with magic, music and family fun!

‘Annual visit to the best panto in the country, another great success’ ‘Now THAT'S a panto!’

Audience comments on Rapunzel and the Rascal Prince For more information on performance times, prices or accessible performances please visit our website or call the Box Office.

Sponsored by

Media partners

Jonathan Miller

TICKETS A B C RV 7.30pm

£25 £21 £16 £8.50

Tues 21 – Wed 22 January

Thurs 23 January

MUSICAL / SHOWSTOPPER PRODUCTIONS

DRAMA / Soho Theatre and NABOKOV

COMEDY / Seabright Productions

The Showstoppers Improvised Musical

BLINK

Eric and Little Ern

by Phil Porter, directed by Joe Murphy

created and performed by Ian Ashpitel and Jonty Stephens featuring classic material by Eddie Braben, Dick Hills & Sid Green

Spontaneous musical comedy at its finest!

A brand new musical comedy is created from scratch at each performance of this award-winning show. Audience suggestions are transformed on the spot into an all-singing, all-dancing production with unpredictable and hilarious results. The Showstoppers have been heard on their own BBC Radio 4 series and seen in multiple West End seasons.

‘Achingly funny. Top-class creativity in action.

Worth seeing again and again.’

HHHHH Time Out Critics’ Choice

This is a True Story, and it’s a Love Story.

This is Our Love Story…

This is the tale of Jonah and Sophie. It’s a love story.

A dysfunctional love story, but a love story all the same.

Against the lonely backdrop of London, the worlds of two shy individuals collide, and a charming, delicate and darkly funny story unfolds before your eyes.

‘Funny, fresh and appealing.’ HHHH Telegraph ‘A joy to watch.’ HHHH Evening Standard Age Guidance 14+

TICKETS 7.30pm

A B C RV £20 £16 £12 £8.50

TICKETS A B C RV Tues 21 – Wed 22 at 7.30pm £16 £16 £10 £8.50

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JANUARY

Sat 18 January

This affectionate, moving and fantastically funny homage to the greatest comedy double act that Britain has ever seen, vividly brings back warm memories of a bygone era.

Recreating some of the finest moments of Eric and Ernie’s television and stage performances alongside new material.

The show was a hit at the Edinburgh Fringe 2013 playing to sell-out crowds and ultimately, winning a West End transfer.

‘Spot on… You could watch this for hours.’

HHHH Daily Telegraph TICKETS

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A B C RV £20 £16 £12 £8.50

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JANUARY Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Fri 24 January

Sat 25 January

Thurs 30 January

AN AUDIENCE WITH…

MUSIC / NICK ROSS ORCHESTRA

An AUDIENCE WITH…

An evening at the Theatre with the

Sounds of the Glenn Miller era

An evening with

Recapture the sounds of a bygone era as the Nick Ross Orchestra presents ‘an unmissable evening of music and song’ – the classic Big Band sound of the 1940s.

devised and performed by Helen Fraser accompanied by Keith Monk

Ipswich Town Football Club LEGENDS An unmissable evening for Ipswich Town fans young and old, we will be joined by some of ITFC’s best-loved players (Bryan Hamilton, Simon Milton, Allan Hunter, John Wark and Mick Stockwell) as they host an evening at the Theatre full of stories and anecdotes about the club and their careers, this evening will provide a unique insight into the fascinating game that is football.

With a full line-up of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, a rhythm section and top singers, The Nick Ross Orchestra will faithfully recreate the wonderful sounds of such Big Bands as those led by Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Harry James and Tommy Dorsey.

SPECIAL EVENT: Limited places available to meet and share a drink with the ITFC stars after the show.

Reception Tickets: £15 and allocated on a first come first served basis.

TICKETS A B C RV 7.30pm

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£28 £20 £16 £8.50

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

Helen Fraser A miscellany of memories from stage and screen… past and present.

Helen Fraser has been a professional actress for more than fifty years known for many iconic roles in film and theatre including Sylvia (Bodybag) in Bad Girls and Barbara in the film Billy Liar.

Working with some of the biggest names in show business, Helen’s show traces her theatrical journey and features some of the music which has played an important part in her life.

TICKETS 7.30pm

A B C RV £25 £21 £16 £8.50

TICKETS 7.30pm

A B C RV £20 £16 £12 £8.50

Sat 1 February

Fri 7 February

Comedy / FOCUS 12

COMEDY

Comedy

Laughing stock 2: Crouching ROFL Hidden Punch Line

TWITTER TITTERS

Mitch Benn is the 37th Beatle

The perfect Christmas present for those who love stand-up comedy!

This sell-out stand-up show is back and bigger and better than ever. Enjoy a fast paced evening of comedy with the best stand-up comics around, all in the name of local charity Focus 12! Laugh away the January blues!

‘…giving gifted comics the chance to perform in a fantastic setting while giving locals the chance to see some fresh new acts’ Bury Free Press

In yet another farewell tour, Baz returns – charged with persistent joking all he asks is for 20 more shows to be taken into consideration…

You are the judge and jury, but be merciful to the aged accused, he merely seeks to bring a ray of sunshine amid the dark clouds of life. He’ll be enjoying himself – do join him.

‘When it comes to jokes, Cryer knows his stuff ’ The Guardian

TICKETS

TICKETS 8pm

Barry Cryer and Colin Sell

All tickets: £10

7.30pm

A B C RV £25 £21 £16 £8.50

JANUARY – FEBRUARY

Fri 31 January

Mitch’s new show combines his Scouse upbringing with his love of music and a lifelong obsession with Liverpool’s most famous sons. It is most definitely not a tribute show and while his affection for his subjects is well documented, expect the satirical twists for which Mitch is well known. As Mitch himself says: ‘Many have claimed the title ‘Fifth Beatle’. They can’t all be right; some were righter than others…’

‘Anyone who likes music, hates Simon Cowell and likes learning new things will love it’ HHHH Chortle

TICKETS 8pm

A B C RV £20 £16 £12 £8.50

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FEBRUARY Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Fri 14 February

Sat 15 February

Sun 16 February

Dance / Tango Siempre

MUSIC / BURY ST EDMUNDS CONCERT BAND

OPERA / Co-Opera Co

TangoMotion

♥ VALE NTIN E EVENT

Tangomotion features four world class tango dancers with live music from the acclaimed tango quartet Tango Siempre.

The Tangomotion musicians and dancers have previously appeared in the hit West End show Midnight Tango (starring Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace), BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, Sally Potter’s Covent Garden production of Carmen and Madonna’s film Evita.

From virtuoso displays of traditional tango dance in stunning costumes to the exquisite sounds of 1930’s Buenos Aires and the powerful Nuevo Tango music of Astor Piazzolla, Tangomotion is a breathtaking journey into the heart of Tango Argentino. special valentines EVENT: Our Greene Room bar will transform into an Argentinean tango club after the show.

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7.30pm

A B C RV £25 £21 £16 £8.50

SATURDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES

♥ VALE NTIN E EVENT

Join the Bury St Edmunds Concert Band for a lively, fun and entertaining evening as they perform music featured in Star Wars, Superman, Jurassic Park, James Bond, Beauty and the Beast and many more.

This is the band’s second concert here at the Theatre Royal after a sell-out performance of Last Night of the Proms last September – if you enjoyed the Proms, you’ll love this!

TICKETS A B C RV 7.30pm £15 £12 £12 £8 Money raised from this fundraising event will help to support the BSE Concert Band and the Theatre Royal’s community and education programme (Registered Charity 242977)

Dinner & Divas

Sponsored by

A Night of Fine Dining and Musical Entertainment On Stage

♥ VALE NTIN E EVENT

For the ultimate experience in theatrical dining we will serve a sumptuous four course dinner, with wine, on stage with operatic and musical entertainment provided by Co-Opera Co, an exciting opera company that has already thrilled audiences in Bury St Edmunds with Carmen, The Magic Flute and Madama Butterfly.

The evening will begin with a sparkling champagne and canapé reception and finish with coffee and petit fours served at your table. Between courses and after dinner you can enjoy some of the best loved arias, accompanied by a chamber ensemble.

‘If music be the food of love…’ then why not buy a favourite aria to be performed on the night and featured in the event programme. Call the Box Office for more details.

TICKETS £100 (request a Personal Aria: £25) 6.30pm for reception Money raised from this fundraising event will help to support Co-Opera Co and the Theatre Royal’s community and education programme (Registered Charity 242977)

Fri 21 February

Sun 23 February

DRAMA / Menagerie and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds

CHILDREN / THE PEOPLE'S THEATRE COMPANY

MUSIC / THREE PIN PRODUCTIONS

Egusi Soup

Old MacDonald Had A Farm

An intimate evening with

by Janice Okoh, directed by Paul Bourne

by Steven Lee

A spicy comedy about love, life, loss and… packing!

As the Anyias, a British-Nigerian family, pack their suitcases and prepare to head home to Lagos for a memorial service in honour of the late Mr Anyia, they soon realise they will need to get rid of some excess baggage first!

‘Okoh’s play is punchy and funny, and generates much laughter of recognition.’ The Stage Age Guidance 16+ H DRAMA SAVER H

more details ON PAGE 3

TICKETS A B C RV

Thurs 20 – Sat 22 at 7.30pm £20 £16 £12 £8.50 Sat 22 at 2.30pm £16 £12 £10 £8.50

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For everyone aged4and above

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Old MacDonald had a farm E - I - E - I - O. But Old MacDonald’s animals have gone missing! Can you help a friendly scientist and his amazing time machine get them back for him?

Written especially for parents to enjoy with their children, this fun-filled farmyard tale brings to life all the best loved characters from the original nursery rhyme along with a magical medley of games, giggles and sing-along songs.

‘Fast, slick, colourful, thoroughly entertaining and above all brilliant fun’ WhatsOnStage.com

FEBRUARY

Thurs 20 – Sat 22 February

RUTHIE HENSHALL Musical Theatre’s Leading Lady

A unique opportunity to spend an unforgettable evening with one of the world’s best loved and most captivating performers.

Ruthie and her band will take you on a personal musical journey through her extraordinary career. Including music and memorable moments from Chicago, Oliver!, Crazy for You and Les Misérables as well as popular tunes significant to Ruthie now, such as Both Sides Now, Vincent and I’ve Loved These Days.

‘…dazzling burst of star power’ The Times

Running time: 75 minutes

TICKETS

1.30pm

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A B C RV £10 £8.50 £8.50 £8.50

TICKETS 7.30pm

A B C RV £25 £21 £16 £8.50

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FEBRUARY – MARCH Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Fri 28 February

Sat 1 March

Thurs 6 – Sat 15 March

MUSIC

COMEDY / Avalon

DRAMA / Out of Joint and Octagon Theatre Bolton

Keith Ball and HIS Jazzmen

Alex Horne: Lies

THIS MAY HURT A BIT

A Tribute to Kenny Ball

A welcome return to the Theatre Royal for the late Kenny Ball's Jazzmen. Led now by Keith Ball, Kenny’s son, on vocals and Ben Cummings on trumpet, the Jazzmen perform a selection of Kenny’s top 20 hits interspersed with the very best in Dixieland Jazz.

‘Horne is a gifted raconteur… unrelenting and enviably quick-witted’ HHHH Fest

by Stella Feehily directed by Max Stafford-Clark

With characteristic wit, tenderness, and dives into surrealism, Stella Feehily’s new play explores one family’s journey through the digestive system of the NHS, and asks: what is the prognosis for this much-loved, and fiercely debated, institution?

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more details ON PAGE 4

TICKETS A B C RV

Thurs 6 –Sat 8 & Wed 12 – Sat 15 at 7.30pm Tues 11 at 7.30pm, Sat 8 & Sat 15 at 2.30pm Wed 12 at 2pm

TICKETS 16

On the back of yet another sell-out stadium tour, the triple Perrier-winning comedian, original host of Blockbusters and former Mr Universe, Alex Horne presents a show packed full of jokes, impressions and lies.

* WORLD PREMIERE ***

7.30pm

A B C RV £20 £16 £12 £8.50

TICKETS

8pm All tickets: £12

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Mon 31 March

Tues 1 – Wed 2 April

DRAMA / Filter in association with the Royal Shakespeare Company

DRAMA / UP IN ARMS

CHILDREN / Erth

TWELFTH NIGHT

Visitors

DINOSAUR ZOO

by William Shakespeare directed by Sean Holmes

by Barney Norris directed by Alice Hamilton

Two worlds collide in Filter’s explosive new take on Shakespeare’s lyrical Twelfth Night.

In a farmhouse at the edge of Salisbury Plain, a family is falling apart. Stephen can't afford to put his mother into care; Arthur can't afford to stop working and look after his wife…

When a young stranger with blue hair moves in to care for Edie as her mind unravels, the family are forced to ask: are we living the way we wanted? Visitors takes a haunting, beautiful look at the way our lives slip past us.

This story of romance, satire and mistaken identity is crafted into one of the most exciting and accessible Shakespeare productions of recent years. Experience the madness of love in this heady world where riotous gig meets Shakespeare.

H DRAMA SAVER H

more details ON PAGE 5

TICKETS A B C RV

Tues 18 at 7.30pm & Sat 22 at 2.30pm £16 £12 £10 £8.50 Wed 19 – Sat 22 at 7.30pm £20 £16 £12 £8.50 Wed 19 & Thurs 20 at 2pm £10 £10 £10 £8.50

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Dare to get up close and personal!

‘To write like this, while making the audience ache with recognition, is a wonderful thing’ Exeunt Magazine on Fear Of Music TICKETS A B C RV

Mon 31 at 7.30pm £16 £12 £10 £8.50

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MARCH – APRIL

Tues 18 – Sat 22 March

For everyone aged3and above

Direct from the West End, Dinosaur Zoo brings these awesome prehistoric creatures to the stage as you’ve never seen them before! From cute baby dinos to teeth-gnashing giants, observe and interact with these extraordinary life-like dinosaurs in this imaginative and hilarious live show.

But watch out – not all of these ravenous reptiles are as tame as they seem! Get up close to the action in our Danger Seats.

‘PUPPET-TASTIC! Thoroughly entertaining.

A delight’ HHHH Time Out Running time: 50 minutes

TICKETS A-C RV

Danger Seats: £15 Tues 1 at 1.30pm & Wed 2 at 10.30am £11.50 £8.50 Tues 1 & Wed 2 at 4.30pm £12.50 £8.50

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APRIL Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Thurs 3 April

Fri 4 April

Wed 16 April

DRAMA / The Production Exchange in association with Cambridge Devised Theatre

DRAMA / EASTERN ANGLES

CABARET / SEABRIGHT PRODUCTIONS

EMILY

CHICKEN

Julie Madly Deeply

by Molly Davies

starring Sarah-Louise Young, accompanied by musical director Michael Roulston, directed by Russell Lucas

The Making of a Militant Suffragette

by Ros Connelly, directed by Kath Burlinson, performed by Elizabeth Crarer An extraordinary woman pushed to extraordinary deeds.

Emily Wilding Davidson died under the galloping hooves of King George’s Derby horse in 1913. She was campaigning for what she believed in. This is the story of her life and the events that lead to her untimely end.

‘…worth seeing just for Crarer’s performance’ HHHH The Public Reviews Age Guidance 10+ Running time: 70 minutes

TICKETS 7.30pm

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A B C RV £16 £16 £10 £8.50

Chicken is a quirky and darkly comic new play by nationally acclaimed East Anglian writer Molly Davies. It explores family relationships, human fear and difference, and reveals the poignancy of parenthood. It also charts the journey a farm bird takes before becoming the centrepiece of a disastrous supper party!

‘The East of England would be a far poorer place theatrically without the indispensable Eastern Angles’ The Guardian TICKETS

A B C RV £16 £16 £10 £8.50

7.30pm

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Adored by millions, Dame Julie Andrews is a genuine legend of showbiz around the globe. This charming yet cheeky cabaret takes an engaging look at fame and fandom, through the eyes and voice of award-winning singer, West End actress and Fascinating Aïda star Sarah-Louise Young, who has been named by Time Out as one of London’s Top Ten cabaret performers.

Touring direct from a West End run.

‘A tour-de-force from a terrifically talented trouper’ HHHH Time Out TICKETS

F 7.30pm

A B C RV £16 £16 £10 £8.50

Tues 22 – Sat 26 April

Tues 6 May

CHILDREN / Watershed Productions present the BBC Worldwide and Polka Theatre production

DRAMA / The Original Theatre Company and Birdsong Productions LTD

DANCE / BALLET CENTRAL

Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play

Birdsong

Ballet Central 2014

For everyone aged3and above

based on the characters created by Lauren Child adapted by Jonathan Lloyd I have this little sister Lola. She is small and very funny…

Don’t miss everyone’s favourite brother and sister, Charlie and Lola, in their extremely everso wonderful stage show! The stars of the hit BBC TV series and books by Lauren Child are brought to life by a magical mix of puppets, live action and music.

Charlie and Lola ™ and © Lauren Child 2005. Charlie and Lola is produced by Tiger Aspect Productions and distributed by BBC Worldwide Ltd. ™ & © BBC 1996.

TICKETS A B-C RV

Thurs 17 at 4.30pm £13 £11.50 £8.50 Fri 18 at 11am & 1.30pm £13 £11.50 £8.50 Sat 19 at 11am, 1.30pm & 4.30pm £13 £11.50 £8.50

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by Sebastian Faulks directed by Alastair Whatley

100TH ANNIVERSARY WWI

Marking the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War, Birdsong is the hit, critically acclaimed, stage show based on the world famous novel by Sebastian Faulks.

APRIL – MAY

Thurs 17 – Sat 19 April

Fresh from a sell-out season at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Ballet Central perform at Bury St Edmunds with an exciting programme of ballet, contemporary and jazz dance. The varied repertoire includes a mixture of newly commissioned works and much-loved revivals, which showcases the talent of the company's young and emerging dancers.

A mesmerising story of love and courage. Set both before and during the Great War.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see these highly talented dancers as they launch their professional careers.

‘A moving and stunning performance’ HHHHH WhatsOnStage.com

‘A complete delight’ Dance Europe, Ballet Central’s 2013 Tour

more details ON PAGE 6

TICKETS A B C RV

Tues 22 at 7.30pm & Sat 26 at 2.30pm £20 £16 £12 £8.50 Wed 23 – Sat 26 at 7.30pm £25 £25 £16 £8.50 Wed 23 & Thurs 24 at 2pm £16 £10 £10 £8.50

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TICKETS 7.30pm

A B C RV £20 £16 £12 £8.50

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MAY Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Wed 7 – Thurs 8 May

Fri 9 – Sat 10 May

Sat 10 May

MUSICAL / Salida Productions in Association with Assembly

OPERA / OPERA UK

OPERA / OPERA UK and Ian Lavender

Formby

Cosi Fan Tutte

performed and written by Ewan Wardrop directed and co-devised by Ed Hughes

by Mozart, sung in English

Follow George Formby’s rise from awkward stable boy to one of Britain’s biggest stars. In a unique one-man performance Ewan Wardrop plays the role of Formby, as well as all the key characters involved in this fascinating slice of his life.

An evening of fun, frivolity and heartache!

This sensational production features many of Formby’s classics, including: Blackpool Rock, Leaning on a Lamp-Post, When I’m Cleaning Windows, and many more.

‘A little stick of theatrical dynamite’ HHHH The Telegraph TICKETS A B C RV

Wed 7 – Thurs 8 at 7.30pm Thurs 8 at 2pm

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£16 £16 £10 £8.50 £12 £12 £10 £8.50

100TH ANNIVERSARY WWI

A seeming soufflé of fun makes us question the definition of love, honesty and integrity. With Mozart’s sublime score plummeting and soaring, gloriously reflecting every change of mood, two men, Guglielmo and Ferrando, encouraged by their friend Don Alfonso, deceive their girlfriends by telling them they have gone to war, only to return, disguised, and seduce them.

With the deception revealed, life returns to normal, or does it? And with the First World War looming, can things ever be the same?

TICKETS A B C RV

Fri 9 – Sat 10 at 7.30pm

£25 £21 £16 £8.50

Keep The Home Fires Burning

100TH ANNIVERSARY WWI

The Theatre Royal is very pleased to welcome back Ian Lavender, Dad’s Army’s Pike, and Opera UK for an afternoon of musical tour-de-force, revisiting the First World War era.

With popular music of the era including Lehar’s The Merry Widow, many of Ivor Novello’s hits, and such well known classics as Pack Up Your Troubles in Your Old Kit Bag and It’s a Long Way to Tipperary.

Join Ian Lavender as he narrates and guides you through this evocative and musical afternoon.

TICKETS 2.30pm

A B C RV £20 £16 £12 £8.50

Sun 18 May

Mon 19 – Tues 20 May

DRAMA / Creative cow

Cabaret / MUST CLOSE PRODUCTIONS

DRAMA / Metta Theatre

MAY

Tues 13 – Sat 17 May

© Archant

She Stoops to Conquer

Cowards In The Wings

Alice

by Oliver Goldsmith

Two of East Anglia’s brightest personalities Helen McDermott (Anglia TV) and Adrian Wright lift a glass to the genius of Noel Coward in this kaleidoscopically entertaining celebration of his songs, joined by pianist Annette Jude and John Knowles.

1915. While bombs rain down outside, Alice Hargreaves takes refuge in her dusty cellar, rediscovering her childhood amongst broken tennis racquets, old lamp shades and moth-eaten christening gowns. Meanwhile her son Alan, a WWI soldier, makes the same imaginary journey down the rabbit hole to escape the madness of war, animating the objects around him to return them both to a wonderland of talking rabbits, mad hatters and savage queens.

With mayhem and merriment, this classic comedy by Oliver Goldsmith revels in the mistakes and misunderstandings that come together to create a heart-warming, hilarious evening.

‘The Rivals is not only tackled, but wrestled to the floor in a flurry of ruffled wigs, corsets and impeccable comic timing’ WhatsOnStage.com

Only Mad Dogs and Englishmen should miss this fantastic cabaret evening!

Based on Lewis Carroll’s literary classic and the real life Alice who inspired it, this poignant new play is brought imaginatively to life with Metta’s trademark mix of theatre and puppetry.

H DRAMA SAVER H

more details ON PAGE 7

Age Guidance 10+

TICKETS A B C RV

Tues 13 at 7.30pm & Sat 17 at 2.30pm £16 £12 £10 £8.50 Wed 14 – Sat 17 at 7.30pm £20 £16 £12 £8.50 Wed 14 & Thurs 15 at 2pm £10 £10 £10 £8.50

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100TH ANNIVERSARY WWI

TICKETS A B C RV

7.30pm £16 £16 £12 £8.50

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

TICKETS

A B C RV Mon 19 – Tues 20 at 7.30pm £12 £12 £10 £8.50 Mon 19 – Tues 20 at 2pm £10 £10 £10 £8.50

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MAY Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Wed 21 May

Fri 23 May

Sat 24 – Sun 25 May

DRAMA / house and Snuff Box Theatre in collaboration with Richard Jordan Productions

DANCE

VARIETY / SLIGHTLY FAT FEATURES

BITCH BOXER

JaLeo FLAMENCO

by Charlotte Josephine

In a scintillating fusion of heartwrenching vocals, explosive footwork and virtuoso guitar playing, Jaleo return to Britain with their latest new stage show A Compás, brimming over with the intoxicating rhythms, palpable energy and joie de vivre which have become synonymous with the company.

SLIGHTLY FAT Features in Varietyville

Meet Chloe, 21, from Leytonstone. She likes the simple things in life: cherry sambuca, hairbrush-in-the-mirror karaoke and winding her Dad up.

Oh, and she’s a boxer.

London, 2012. Women will step into the Olympic boxing ring for the very first time. And it’s in Stratford. Down the road.

As Chloe trains for the fight of her life, she is left winded by two life-changing events. In a man’s world, can she prove she’s still worth the title?

‘Sparkily written, feistily performed’ HHHH London Evening Standard TICKETS

A B C RV £16 £16 £10 £8.50

7.30pm

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FS

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A Compás (in rhythm) charts an evocative musical journey through the diverse flamenco regions of Andalusia in which some of Spain´s finest award-winning artists combine their talents in a mesmerising tour-de-force to produce a unique spectacle of universal appeal which encapsulates the very essence of flamenco.

‘Spellbinding fusion of acoustic guitar, rhythm, songs, handclapping and ignitable dance’ The Guardian TICKETS

F 7.30pm

A B C RV £20 £16 £12 £8.50

A riotous comedy cabaret for all ages, shapes and sizes.

The smash hit variety troupe Slightly Fat Features, return to Bury St Edmunds after their packed out shows in 2010 and 2012 with more astonishing physical skills and orchestrated mayhem.

So gasp in wonder at dazzling feats, laugh till your belly hurts and gorge yourself on a smorgasbord of theatrical invention.

With special guest appearances from Bury St Edmunds’ very own brilliant Hazelwood Dance Studio dancers.

Variety is back and it’s Slightly Fat.

‘Comedy magic’ The Independent TICKETS

Sat 24 at 7pm Sun 25 at 2.30pm

A B C RV £13 £10 £10 £8.50 £10 £10 £10 £8.50

DRAMA / Comedy Theatre Company

Rising Damp

‘The stage version of ITV’s best and certainly most highly-respected sitcom to date, Rising Damp shines as a masterwork and is a real highlight…’

British Comedy Guide H DRAMA SAVER H

A B C RV

Tues 27 at 7.30pm & Sat 31 at 2.30pm £20 £16 £12 £8.50 Wed 28 – Sat 31 at 7.30pm £25 £21 £16 £8.50 Wed 28 at 2pm £16 £14 £10 £8.50

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IN DEPTH

TALK BACK

CHILDREN’S

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

Delve deeper and find out more about the context of these productions…

Join the cast for a post show chat…

Post show booking signing…

Thurs 20 February

Fri 21 February

Egusi Soup

Old MacDonald Had a Farm

Wed 12 March

Thurs 24 April, 6pm

This May Hurt a Bit

Birdsong

Thurs 6 March

with director Alastair Whatley

This May Hurt a Bit

Twelfth Night

ITV’s top comedy of all time, Rising Damp, comes to the stage in a brand-new production from the Comedy Theatre Company, producers of the stage versions of Victoria Wood’s Dinnerladies and BBC TV’s Birds of a Feather.

TICKETS

PLAY CLUB

Wed 19 March

by Eric Chappell

more details ON PAGE 8

DISCOVER

Wed 23 April

Birdsong Thurs 8 May

Formby Wed 14 May

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Thurs 20 March

Twelfth Night Mon 31 March

Visitors

Thurs 3 April

Emily

She Stoops to Conquer

Thurs 24 April, 7.30pm

Tues 20 May

Thurs 15 May

Alice

She Stoops to Conquer

Wed 28 May

Rising Damp

Birdsong

Mon 19 May, 7.30pm

ALICE

MAy / DISCOVER

Tues 27 – Sat 31 May

Join us for family fun activities prior to the performance…

Fri 21 February

Old MacDonald Had a Farm Draw your favourite farmyard animal in the Greene Room bar.

Tues 1 – Wed 2 April

Dinosaur Zoo Family activities in the Greene Room bar.

Thurs 17 – Sat 19 April

Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play Family activities in the Greene Room bar.

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COMMUNITY Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

The Community On Stage 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.

Indeed the Theatre Royal is coming up to a very important anniversary in this respect. In 1965, the building was transformed from Greene King’s barrel store back to its original purpose – a working theatre. This was achieved through the dedication and tenacity of the amateur companies locally. In 2015, we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the reopening and I look forward to planning this important milestone with many of the performers whose work is presented in the following pages.

DIRECTOR / Karen Simpson

Wed 29 Jan DRAMA / Theatre Royal Writers

Winter Warmers in the Greene Room

Join the Theatre Royal Writers’ group for an evening of rehearsed script-in-hand comedy plays. This will be a fun evening of original writing performed for you by a group of actors who work regularly with the group. Welcome drinks and light refreshments are included in the price.

7.30pm

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TICKETS: £10

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

Tues 4 – Thurs 6 & Sat 8 February

Tues 11 – Wed 12 February

Drama / Bury Theatre Workshop

MUSICAL / Finborough School

Pygmalion

Grease

by Bernard Shaw

book, music and lyrics by Jim Jacobs & Warren Casey

Pygmalion is probably the most popular of Bernard Shaw’s plays and 2014 is the centenary of its first London production so Bury Theatre Workshop are bringing this sparkling comedy of manners to the Theatre Royal.

Finborough School are thrilled to be performing at the Theatre Royal again, this time with their school production of Grease.

Audiences will know the story from its musical adaptation, My Fair Lady. The play gives you all of Shaw’s wit and his view that the English judge people by how they speak not what they say – do we really judge a book by its cover? Follow Professor Higgins as he attempts to turn a flower girl into a Duchess in six months with an outcome that neither he nor she expects.

TICKETS A B C RV Tues 4 – Thurs 6 at 7.30pm £14 £10 £10 £5 Sat 8 at 2.30pm £14 £10 £10 £5 Sat 8 at 7.30pm £15 £12 £12 £5 Please note there is no performance on Fri 7 February

When wholesome good girl Sandy and greaser renegade Danny fall in love over the summer, they never expect to see each other again. But when they both discover that they are now attending the same high school, social differences challenge their romance. Including Greased Lightnin’, Summer Nights and Hand Jive, come and enjoy the musical that sparked the well-known hit movie.

TICKETS

Tues 11 – Wed 12 at 7.30pm £12 / £10 children

Wed 26 – Thurs 27 February

Tues 25 – Sat 29 March

CHILDREN / Theatre Royal Young Associates

DRAMA / Theatre Royal Education

MUSICAL / Bury St Edmunds Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society

Hansel and Gretel off the Sofa

Scientists and their Discoveries

Sweet Charity

* ON RURAL TOUR *

Gretel keeps stuffing her face with fizzy cola bottles, and Hansel can’t tear his eyes away from his games console. But there’s lots of fun and adventures to be had outdoors. The dog wants to go for a walk, and all their friends are playing out in the fresh air – perhaps you can help persuade them to get up off the sofa. Join Hansel and Gretel as they go on a magical adventure exploring the world outside their living room.

A funny and magical show for ages 4+

Spring Celebration of Student Drama 2014 The Theatre Royal has now been celebrating students’ work for four years, and we are delighted to open the Theatre’s doors once again and invite school groups to perform on our stage. This year the theme is scientists and their discoveries and each group has looked at different inventors, physicists, chemists and doctors and how their work has shaped our world today.

Sat 15 Feb, 11am - Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Thurs 20 Feb, 3pm - Haverhill Arts Centre Fri 21 Feb, 3pm - The Curve, Sudbury Sat 22 Feb, 11am - Ixworth Village Hall Sat 22 Feb, 3pm - Memorial Hall, Newmarket Running time: 45 minutes Tickets: £5

COMMUNITY

Sat 15 – Sat 22 February

book by Neil Simon, music by Cy Coleman, lyrics by Dorothy Fields, based on an original screenplay by Federico Fellini, Tullio Pinelli and Ennio Flaiano, produced for the Broadway stage by Fryer, Carr and Harris, conceived, staged and choreographed by Bob Fosse, by arrangement with MusicScope and Stage Musicals Limited of New York

A classic and ever-popular musical! Shed a tear as the lonely dance hall hostess Charity Hope Valentine looks for love.

Laugh at the dilemmas in which she finds herself, and tap your feet and rejoice in one of the best musical scores ever.

With familiar songs Hey, Big Spender, If My Friends Could See Me Now, I’m a Brass Band, I Love to Cry at Weddings, The Rhythm of Life and many more!

TICKETS A B C RV

TICKETS: £6.50 / £4 concs.

Wed 26 – Thurs 27 at 7pm

Tues 25 – Sat 29 at 7.30pm £20 £16 £12 £8.50 Sat 29 at 2.30pm £20 £16 £12 £8.50 Discounts available for Senior Citizens and groups.

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COMMUNITY Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Wed 9 – Thurs 10 April

Sat 12 – Sun 13 April

Tues 29 April – Sat 3 May

DRAMA / THEATRE ROYAL YOUTH THEATRE

DRAMA / Theatre Royal Community Company

MUSICAL / THE IRVING STAGE COMPANY

“Flaming Youth!”

(Or Shakespeare's Kids)

The Comedy of Errors

Jekyll & Hyde

directed by Sally Waters

by William Shakespeare directed by Amy Wyllie

Shakespeare plays; full of stuffy old grownups, stomping around, being boring and having no fun? Not this time! Meet Shakespeare’s teenagers - falling in and out of love, sulking, arguing, fighting and not doing what they are told. This youthful bunch haven’t changed a bit over the last 500 years, and who better to play teenagers, than teenagers?

When two sets of identical twins, separated at birth during a storm at sea, unknowingly find themselves in the same bustling city, all hell breaks loose! Shakespeare’s joyfully farcical comedy of mistaken identity, jealousy, demonic possession and a multitude of errors is brought to the stage this Spring by the Theatre Royal’s Community Company.

The Musical

conceived for the stage by Steve Cuden and Frank Wildhorn book and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse music by Frank Wildhorn A musical thriller based on the novel The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson, this vibrant show by Bricusse & Wildhorn is full of powerful musical numbers.

This Easter join the Theatre Royal’s three 13-15 year old Youth Theatre groups as they bring to life some of Shakespeare’s more youthful characters, performing extracts from his tragedy, comedy and history plays.

TICKETS 26

Wed 9 – Thurs 10 at 7.30pm £8.50 / £6.50 concs

TICKETS

Sat 12 – Sun 13 at 7.30pm £10 / £8.50 concs

TICKETS A B C RV

Tues 29 – Sat 3 at 7.30pm Sat 3 at 2.30pm

£19 £15 £12 £8.50 £19 £15 £12 £8.50

TOURS

OTHER EVENTS WE SELL / TOURS

OTHER EVENTS WE SELL

JAN – MAy 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.

Guided Tours 1 Feb – 15 May Our tours provide a fascinating and lively insight to the Theatre’s history. Tours last approximately one hour.

BOX OFFICE SERVICES If you are promoting an event and would like to maximise your ticket sales by taking advantage of our professional, fully computerised, box office service, please contact Sue Pilgrim, Box Office Supervisor, on 01284 829949 or email sue@theatreroyal.org ST EDMUNDSBURY CATHEDRAL The Messiah Sat 7 Dec 2013, 7.30pm Tickets: £10, £15 & £20 SSAFA Forces Help venue: St Edmundsbury Cathedral Concert of Carols sung by the Honington Military Wives Choir Thurs 19 Dec 2013, 7pm Tickets: £12, £10 & £8

Bury St Edmunds Concert Club venue: Unitarian Meeting House Jonathan Dormand cello Sun16 Feb 2014, 3pm Piatti String Quartet Mon 17 March 2014, 7.30pm Tickets: £15 (Students £5)

Tuesday and Thursday 2pm Saturday 11am

A brief history of the Theatre Royal

Open Doors 1 Feb – 15 May 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

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

Group Tours To arrange and book a group tour, contact grouptours@theatreroyal.org or 01284 829957 Tour Self Explore General Guided Tours

Designed and built in 1819 by the renowned architect William Wilkins, the Theatre Royal is the only surviving example of a Regency playhouse and one of only eight Grade 1 listed theatre buildings in this country. Owned by the Greene King brewery and in the care of the National Trust, the Theatre Royal is managed and operated today by a registered charity, Bury St Edmunds Theatre Management Ltd. In 2005, the Theatre underwent a major programme of restoration and development, partly funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. The Theatre was reopened in September 2007. In addition to a year-round programme of drama and other arts performances, the Theatre sets out to bring its fascinating heritage to life for today’s audiences.

Full Price Concs NT Member Donation Donation Donation £6

£4.50

FREE

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SPECIAL EVENTS Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

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.

celebration. Serving traditional fun party food, we cater for children’s parties either pre-show or between matinee and evening performances in our Greene Room or Premier Bar.

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.

Whether you are attending a show with a group of friends, work colleagues, an organised group, or entertaining clients, why not make a night of it and turn your visit to a show into a special occasion. For a minimum of 20 people you can have free exclusive use of our Premier Bar. Whether it’s pre-show and interval drinks, canapés or a finger buffet, we can cater for your requirements. And remember there are show ticket discounts for a minimum group of 8.

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

Children’s parties Turn a visit to the theatre into a perfect birthday

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Add a touch of professional glitz to your performance – hire a costume from the Theatre Royal Please contact us 01284 829955 or email wardrobe@theatreroyal.org for more details

Group events

To speak to a member of our events team, please contact Sara Surman on 01284 829945 or email sara@theatreroyal.org.

Get involved in the running of a busy wardrobe department. Our sessions are aimed at young people with low to moderate learning difficulties. Working together towards getting the costumes made, mended and ready for use and hire.

Please contact us 01284 829955 or email wardrobe@theatreroyal.org for more details Supported by the St Edmunds’ Trust

SUPPORT US

Support us

‘How far that little candle throws his beams! So shines a good deed in a naughty world’ William Shakespeare The Merchant of Venice The commitment and generosity of people who love theatre is more essential than ever in today’s financial climate. To sustain our work as a registered charity, we must raise at least £200,000 each year (14% of our income) through fundraising activity (sponsorship, charitable trusts, fundraising events and individual giving).

Money raised through our individual giving schemes contributes a very valuable 20% towards our overall target. This helps ensure the Theatre Royal’s sustainability and future success.

With a range of exciting and rewarding benefits, you can show your support, whilst learning more about the workings of the theatre and enjoying exclusive offers and events.

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.

members, plus personalised attention and care 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 or Emma Suckling on 01284 829952, email emma@theatreroyal.org Generous tax incentives exist for UK taxpayers supporting charities like the Theatre Royal.

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

Registered charity number 242977

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Creative Learning Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505 30

Creative Learning

Don’t just wonder if you could… Give it a try!

Many people don’t know that alongside the shows that you see on the stage of the Theatre Royal, there’s a huge range of activities that you can get involved with too. Whatever your age or experience you can learn new skills; get upand-doing instead of just dreaming; set your creative juices flowing and meet a whole bunch of people that are doing the same.

A programme of activities is available to teachers including additional activities at the theatre and sessions delivered in school or college. Page to stage, response projects, introduction and theme-based workshops all form part of this work. Schools may also present their own work on the Theatre Royal stage as part of the annual Spring Festival.

Community projects

The skills and techniques that we practice to create theatre find a thousand and one uses in all corners of life – selfconfidence, speaking up, listening, team-work, giving and getting criticism and, of course, remembering to laugh.

We do a lot of that!

We can deliver dynamic activities for groups with specific needs and interests. This has included working with a whole village to create a show together; working with people with learning difficulties, those with mental health issues, young offenders and teenage parents, providing them with opportunities, through creativity, to share and develop their skills and self confidence.

For schools and colleges

Regular clubs and activities

We offer special projects that support pupils’ and teachers’ enjoyment and understanding of the work on stage.

From young people to adults, there are productions, projects and events to take part in. From Theatre Makers, through

Youth Theatre and Young Company to Community Company and our aspiring actors’ Young Associates Programme there’s something for everyone.

Whether you are a school, community group, or individual of any age looking for more information about getting involved in any of our regular groups or Creative Learning projects, contact us on 01284 829933/35 or email creativelearning@theatreroyal.org, or click on the ‘Get Involved’ tab on www.theatreroyal.org 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.

Writers Group If you are interested in writing drama – be it for stage, screen, television or radio - this group meets regularly to read and discuss members’ work. For more details send an email now to Richard Stainer richard.stainer@btinternet.com

Seating Plan Discounts

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UNDER 21 SAVER On selected performances we offer a special rate of £8.50, bookable in advance, for anyone under the age of 21.

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.

ONLINE www.theatreroyal.org You can choose your own seats and print your tickets

CALL 01284 769505 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 Jo on 01284 829931 or email jo@theatreroyal.org

Ticket exchange Includes a £1 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.

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.

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

GALLERY

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

HOW TO BOOK

HOW TO BOOK

Key

Box N

3 4

1 2

Box P

4 5 6

1 2 3

2 3

1

Box Q

Price Band C Price Band RV

9

Box M

Box N

3 6 3 7 4 1 8 5 2

1 2

4 1 Box Q 5 2-3 6 3 Box R 4 5 Box S

1 2 1 2

7 5 3

4

5

3 Box P 4

8 6

7 8

3 2 1

6 5 Box B 4

5 4 2

1

6 5 4

1 3 2 L

1 2

9 8 7

4

K

3 2 1

4 3 Box A

5

Box J

6 8 7

Box L

6

4 Box C 3

DRESS CIRCLE Box K

4 5

2 1

5

Box H 8 7 6

3 2 1

5 4 3 2 1

2 1

9

4 6 3

2

L

7 6 5 4 3 2 1

5

8

Box G

7

4

1

8

5

7

3 2

K

J 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

4 1

J

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

2 1

H

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 E 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

Price Band RV – Restricted View

F

Box F 6

5 8 Box E 4 7 3 6

2 1

4 Box D 3

3

6 5 Box C 4

1-2 2 1

5 4 Box B 3 2 Box A 1

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GENERAL INFORMATION

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

Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505

Typetalk is available in our Box Office.

D

Wheelchair space – available in Dress Circle Box F, H, K, M. Guide dogs are welcome in our Dress Circle boxes.

Bar Facilities IP33 1QR

Our intimate Edwardian Premier Bar is available for private hire.

Car parking Greene King’s staff car park, off Cullum Road, brings you just 200 metres walk from the back of the Theatre, is available for weekday evening and all weekend performances. The cost is £1.50, 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.

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

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

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).

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.

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.

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 it, 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.

SUPPORTERS

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.

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

Worldwide Theatrix Limited

The Theatre Royal would like to express its heartfelt thanks to all of its Front of House Volunteers – we couldn’t open without them!

Theatre Royal Patrons and Major Donors / Jennifer and Nicholas Antill, Derek and Valerie Blake, Stephen and Stephanie Bourne, Gyles Brandreth, Tony and Marie Brown, Duncan Burke, The Bury St Edmunds Concert Band, William and Lynn Cardale, Sir Geoffrey and Lady Olwen Cass, Gordon Cawthorne MBE and Judith Cawthorne, in memory of John and Molly Cheston, Prof. Michael Chisholm, The Croft Family, Rev David Crofts, Patrick and Heide Daniels, Sarah Davies, Simon Daykin, Ian and Alison Duncan, D E Evans, Richard and Anne Freeman, Vivien Gainsborough Foot, Chris Grady, Richard and Anne Greenfield, Stuart and Melanie Henderson, David and Gillian Hodge, Eric and Hazel Humphreys, Hazel Jackman, Peter Jackson CBE and Anne Jackson, Stephen and Victoria Jenkins, Peter Jones, Penny Kelly, Jim and Carol Keohane, Ian Lavender, Lavenham Theatre Group, Margaret May, Peter and Julie Merrick, Jeffrey Parker, Sir Michael Parkinson CBE, Nicholas Pearson OBE and Fiona Pearson, Heather Phillips, Carol Poole, Mr and Mrs Rawlinson, Julia Read, Michael and Catherine Redmond, Susan Roberts, Paul Romaine, Judith and Mike Shallow, Graham Showell, Charles and Suzanne Simpson, Prof.

Richard and Dr Margaret Smith, Martin and Karen Soons, Simon Spence QC, The Stamper Family, David Taylor, Rick Wakeman, The Very Revd Dr Frances Ward, Eric and Ann Warner, Sarah Wenban CBE and Peter Wenban, Deborah Williams.

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

Registered charity number 242977

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DIARY Box Office www.theatreroyal.org 01284 769505 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

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.

Priority Booking opens Wed 20 November at 10am GENERAL Booking ONLINE opens Sat 23 November at 6pm General Booking opens Mon 25 November at 10am Open Doors for tours and coffee: Tues & Thurs, 2 – 4pm, Sat 10.30am – 1pm

The Greene Room will be open 90 mins before each performance.

Guided Tours: Tues & Thurs 2pm, Sat 11am

Events highlighted in red are taking place at a venue other than the Theatre Royal.

Please check venue details at time of booking.

Date JANUARY until Sun 12 Fri 17 Sat 18 Tues 21 Wed 22 Thurs 23 Fri 24 Sat 25 Wed 29 Thurs 30 Fri 31

Event

Time

Aladdin Please see website for more details.

An Audience with Jonathan Miller 7.30pm The Showstoppers Improvised Musical 7.30pm Blink 7.30pm Blink 7.30pm Eric and Little Ern 7.30pm An Evening at the Theatre with the ITFC Legends 7.30pm Sounds of the Glenn Miller Era 7.30pm Winter Warmers in the Greene Room 7.30pm An Evening with Helen Fraser 7.30pm Laughing Stock 2 8pm

10 10 11 11 11 11 12 12 24 12 13

FEBRUARY Sat 1 Tues 4 Wed 5 Thurs 6 Fri 7 Sat 8 Tues 11 Wed 12 Fri 14

Twitter Titters: Barry Cryer and Colin Sell Pygmalion Pygmalion Pygmalion Mitch Benn is the 37th Beatle Pygmalion Grease Grease Tangomotion

13 24 24 24 13 24 24 24 14

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

Page

Sat 15

Sun 16 Thurs 20

Fri 21

Sat 22

Sun 23 Mon 24 Wed 26 Thurs 27 Fri 28

Hansel and Gretel off the Sofa – Theatre Royal Saturday Night at the Movies Dinner & Divas Hansel and Gretel off the Sofa – Haverhill Egusi Soup Old Macdonald Had a Farm Hansel and Gretel off the Sofa – Sudbury Egusi Soup Hansel and Gretel off the Sofa – Ixworth Hansel and Gretel off the Sofa – Newmarket Egusi Soup An Intimate Evening with Ruthie Henshall Lunchtime Concert - Christine Stevenson Scientists and their Discoveries Scientists and their Discoveries Keith Ball and His Jazzmen

11am 25 7.30pm 14 6.30pm 14 3pm 25 7.30pm 3 1.30pm 15 3pm 25 7.30pm 3 11am 25 3pm 25 2.30pm & 7.30pm 3 7.30pm 15 1.10pm 10 7pm 25 7pm 25 7.30pm 16

MARCH Sat 1 Thurs 6 Fri 7 Sat 8 Tues 11 Wed 12

Alex Horne: Lies This May Hurt A Bit This May Hurt A Bit This May Hurt A Bit This May Hurt A Bit This May Hurt A Bit

8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm

16 4 4 4 4 4

This May Hurt A Bit This May Hurt A Bit This May Hurt A Bit Twelfth Night Twelfth Night Twelfth Night Twelfth Night Twelfth Night Sweet Charity Sweet Charity Sweet Charity Sweet Charity Sweet Charity Visitors Lunchtime Concert - My Brother Benjamin

7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 1.10pm

4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 25 25 25 25 25 17 10

APRIL Tues 1 Wed 2 Thurs 3 Fri 4 Wed 9 Thurs 10 Sat 12 Sun 13 Mon 14 Wed 16 Thurs 17 Fri 18 Sat 19 Tues 22 Wed 23 Thurs 24 Fri 25 Sat 26

Dinosaur Zoo Dinosaur Zoo Emily: The Making of a Militant Suffragette Chicken ‘Flaming Youth!' [Or Shakespeare's Kids] ‘Flaming Youth!' [Or Shakespeare's Kids] The Comedy of Errors The Comedy of Errors Lunchtime Concert – Danielle Perrett Julie Madly Deeply Charlie and Lola's Best Bestest Play Charlie and Lola's Best Bestest Play Charlie and Lola's Best Bestest Play Birdsong Birdsong Birdsong Birdsong Birdsong

1.30pm & 4.30pm 17 10.30pm & 4.30pm 17 7.30pm 18 7.30pm 18 7.30pm 26 7.30pm 26 7.30pm 26 7.30pm 26 1.10pm 10 7.30pm 18 4.30pm 19 11am & 1.30pm 19 11am & 1.30pm & 4.30pm 19 7.30pm 6 2pm & 7.30pm 6 2pm & 7.30pm 6 7.30pm 6 2.30pm & 7.30pm 6

Tues 29 Wed 30

Jekyll & Hyde Jekyll & Hyde

MAY Thurs 1 Jekyll & Hyde Fri 2 Jekyll & Hyde Sat 3 Jekyll & Hyde Tues 6 Ballet Central 2014 Wed 7 Formby Thurs 8 Formby Fri 9 Cosi Fan Tutte Sat 10 Keep the Home Fires Burning

Cosi Fan Tutte Tues 13 She Stoops to Conquer Wed 14 She Stoops to Conquer Thurs 15 She Stoops to Conquer Fri 16 She Stoops to Conquer Sat 17 She Stoops to Conquer Sun 18 Cowards in the Wings Mon 19 Alice Tues 20 Alice Wed 21 Bitch Boxer Fri 23 Jaleo Flamenco Sat 24 Slightly Fat Features in Varietyville Sun 25 Slightly Fat Features in Varietyville Tues 27 Rising Damp Wed 28 Rising Damp Thurs 29 Rising Damp Fri 30 Rising Damp Sat 31 Rising Damp

7.30pm 7.30pm

26 26

7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 2pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm

26 26 26 19 20 20 20 20 20 7 7 7 7 7 21 21 21 22 22 22 22 8 8 8 8 8

DIARY

Thurs 13 Fri 14 Sat 15 Tues 18 Wed 19 Thurs 20 Fri 21 Sat 22 Tues 25 Wed 26 Thurs 27 Fri 28 Sat 29 Mon 31

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

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

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