The joan's 2016 season brochure

TRE A E H T E MIER Y E R P D L WOR IOUS COMED HILAR ETTE MIDLER T OF B IANCE S E B E H T RILL SE! B L A C I S MU CALYP ILL, O P A E H T G SURVIVE URST, RICHARED! LEH INE & MOR Z A H I N NO PATSY CL

Welcome to The Joan’s 2016 Season!

It’s always a thrill to work with patrons, artists and arts companies in putting together a selection of the best performances from around Australia for you to enjoy throughout the whole year. I’m especially excited that Penrith’s own professional theatre program The Q, located here at The Joan, has a new show in this year’s season – Teacup In A Storm – inspired by the incredible life work of local artist, teacher and carer Therese Cook, who features on this year’s cover.

When I was thinking about a person who symbolises all The Joan has to offer from learning programs and performances to artist development and access initiatives, Therese sprang to mind. As someone who is regularly and passionately involved in all of these, she shows the great variety of ways anyone can get involved and make a positive impact in their own unique way.

I look forward to seeing you at The Joan in 2016 – and whichever way you are involved I trust it will be a vitalizing experience for you, your family and your friends.

James Fischer Director, Community Engagement, The Joan

It’s an exciting time for the Penrith region as we announce another wonderful year of top quality performing arts experiences– there really is something for everyone in this year’s Subscription Season, which kicks off our program announcements for 2016.

As someone who has been involved with The Joan for more years than I care to mention, I get enormous satisfaction from the great sense of energy coming through the organisation: through pathways forged for young and emerging artists, new work created and presented by The Q, and thousands of young community performers owning their moment in the spotlight through the many schools’ and dance festivals as well as the State Band championships.

The Joan is leading the way in providing opportunities for local performers and presenters, for children and young people learning the crafts of theatre and music; and people of all ages, abilities, cultures and walks of life expressing themselves through the performing arts.

I am so thrilled to see The Joan going from strength to strength as it passes its quarter century and heads into 2016 with a sense of adventure and excitement, there are wonderful plans on the horizon. As well as exceptional performances and learning opportunities, the community will benefit from enhanced facilities.

But at the heart of this activity are the professional performances we present, be they intimate or on the grand scale, in music or theatre, local, national or international, making the best in the arts both local and accessible.

As partners and long-time friends of The Joan, Penrith City Council is delighted to have supported these developments including upgraded air conditioning to make The Joan more comfortable for patrons.

New technical upgrades, including access to the NBN, will ensure the Centre is better resourced for local companies and artists using its many spaces. All these improvements lead to an enhanced audience experience.

I am proud and truly grateful for the support of our community and look forward to sharing a year of exceptional entertainment with you.

I offer the team my warmest congratulations on a brilliant 2016 Subscription Season and I look forward to seeing you at The Joan this year.

The Hon. Peter Anderson AM Cr Karen McKeown Chairman, PP&VA

Mayor of Penrith

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE Pack 4 Pack 6 Pack 8 Pack

Adult Concession SAVE $180 $160 $5-$95 $246 $216 $45-$135 $320 $280 $85-$175

Why Subscribe?

Guaranteed Seats

Get Out More

We love to bring the best shows from around the country to you at the most accessible and affordable prices possible.

Hottest ticket in town? No need to worry about missing out when it’s already in your hand. Many of our shows do sell out fast.

Our subscribers are the heart of our community, and that’s just one of the many benefits of being a Joan subscriber:

Best Seats

Don’t let that great show you were dying to see somehow pass you by. Sign up now and as the months come around you’ll have plenty of special treats on the calendar to look forward to.

Big Savings The more shows you pick in your pack, the more dollars you’ll save. In 2016 Joan subscribers save between $5 and $175 depending on your selections, which means you can save up to $30 off the single ticket price for some shows!

Want a bigger pack? Contact our box office and we’ll be happy to help.

First in, best dressed.

Subscribers are seated in premium seats.

It’s Ok To Change Sometimes plans shift as the year unfolds. If you’re a subscriber we offer free ticket exchanges so you can reschedule to suit.

How Do I Subscribe?

Use the attached form to become a 2016 Joan Subscriber – simply choose either a four, six or eight pack – the bigger the pack the more you save!

Once we have your completed form we’ll process your subscription and post out your tickets and you and your friends will be all set for your year of entertainment.

You can also purchase your subscription online thejoan.com.au

THE ULTIMATE BETTE MIDLER EXPERIENCE

S H T N O M 12 TASTIC N A F OF AINMENT T R E T EN In 2016, we are delighted to present 12 wondrous performances for you and your friends to enjoy here at The Joan.

From Bette Midler to Patsy Cline, stand-up comedy to operatic heights and tea rituals to deep sea exploration The Joan’s 2016 Season is not-to-be-missed!

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE READ ON

FOR DETAILS

THE DIVINE MISS BETTE

JAN

COMEDY AT ITS FUNNIEST

MICF ROADSHOW

MAY

THERE’LL BE LAUGHTER. AND LOTS OF IT!

THE WHARF REVUE

AUG

WORLD PREMIERE THEATRE

Starring

ANDRÉ RIEU’S STUNNING SOLOIST

Conducted by

RICHARD GILL Featuring the

THE SYDNEY CHAMBER CHOIR

TEACUP IN A STORM

FEB

CLASSICAL BRILLIANCE

SYDNEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

JUNE

With

MAR

“PROFOUNDLY MOVING THEATRE”

SURVIVE THE APOCALYPSE!

COUNTRY SONG

ALVIN SPUTNIK

JULY

NONI HAZLEHURST

SEPT

MOTHER

APR

JULY

“EXTRAORDINARY!”

Starring

COUNTRY MUSIC’S NEXT BIG THING

ALWAYS...

PATSY CLINE

SACRED & PROFANE

THIS TIME TOMORROW

OCT

TEDDY & GRETA

NOV

After sellout seasons across Australia, Catherine Alcorn brings her acclaimed smash hit to The Joan to open our 2016 Season with a summer night to remember!

THE DIVINE MISS BETTE

Bawdy, brash and just as fabulous as the original, The Divine Miss Bette is your chance to become intimately acquainted with one of the greatest cabaret artists of our time. Trained

by Steve Ostrow, the man who discovered Bette Midler, Alcorn will take you on a thrilling roller coaster ride back to the Palace Theatre, New York 1973.

Backed by a five piece band, she’ll belt out the divas early classics including Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, The Rose, Friends and more – get ready for a divine experience!

“She’s bloody talented. She can sing.

She can act. She has comic timing...the confidence, the unmitigated chutzpah…”

Crikey Sydney “Between the tall tales, double entendre, and tongue-in-cheek vulgarity, the heartache behind the humour, most evident in Alcorn’s rendition of Am I Blue, elevates her titillating tribute to a tender triumph.” The West Australian

Presented By

NEIL GOODING PRODUCTIONS & CATHERINE ALCORN

Concept by Catherine Alcorn Created by Peter Cox Produced by Neil Gooding Productions and Catherine Alcorn

A rollicking ride: a huge voice, with sass and heart to boot.

NEIL GOODING PRODUCTIONS

JAN Single Tickets: $55 Adult, $50 Concession Or put this in your Subscription Pack to SAVE up to $15 per ticket HT LIGHTS Fri 22 January 8pm* ITHreFRadIDoAnYfoNrIGmore W * Sat 23 January 2pm Sat 23 January 8pm

Made by

THE Q

“Some would say I’m an idiot, some would say I’m a saint.”

Teacup in a Storm is a window into an unseen world of crashes, laughter and carrying on.

Join us in February for the world premiere of our very own brand new work based on the incredible stories of carers in our local region.

Carers make up one in eight Australians and account for 1.9 billion hours of unpaid work annually. Teacup in a Storm

draws on a series of detailed interviews with a number of these carers from the local region, exploring their personal experiences.

Teacup in a Storm brings together the dynamic local circus-maker, carer, teacher and community artist Therese Cook, with acclaimed writer Noëlle Janaczewska and emerging performer Marie Chanel, under the direction of award-winning artist Nick Atkins. Make sure you’re there when this exciting team unveil our world premiere new work!

Teacup in a Storm has been made right here at The Joan

by The Q – our contemporary theatre production program, which has evolved from the creative lineage of the Q Theatre Company and its more than fifty years of commitment to the presentation and production of new theatre works.

A heartfelt piece filled with light and shade, coloured by experiences and shared stories.

FEB Single Tickets: $50 Adult, $45 Concession Or put this in your Subscription Pack to SAVE up to $10 per ticket HT LIGHTS Thur 25 February 8pm ITHreFRadIDoAnYfoNrIGmore W * Fri 26 Feburary 8pm* Sat 27 February 8pm

SACRED & PROFANE

In 2016 one of Australia’s most energetic and popular conductors, Richard Gill (Spicks And Specks) takes the reins of one of Australia’s leading choirs – the Sydney Chamber Choir – and you can see them first here at The Joan in March!

Sacred and Profane will be a choral roller-coaster ride you’ll remember for a very long time as Richard Gill leads the Sydney Chamber Choir through some of music’s most remarkable works.

The contrast couldn’t be greater as the afternoon commences with one of medieval music’s most sacred masterpieces, Machaut’s Messe de Notre Dame, before culminating with one of

Featuring the

THE SYDNEY CHAMBER CHOIR Conducted by

RICHARD GILL

Richard Gill Richard Gill is well known for his inspiring leadership in the field of music education, his achievements as Artistic Director of Victorian Opera and his work as a conductor of international renown.

the 20th Century’s most powerful and profane compositions, Carmina Burana, Carl Orff’s monumental work for orchestra, chorus and soloists – just google O Fortuna, you’ll recognise it straight away. With its earthshaking sound and powerful rhythms, it’s an awe-inspiring experience, a celebration of all that’s lusty and luscious in life.

Sydney Chamber Choir Founded in 1975, Sydney Chamber Choir has forged a reputation as one of Australia’s leading choral ensembles, with its performances frequently broadcast across the country on ABC Classic FM.

A powerful performance that will stimulate your senses and set your soul alight.

Performers Conductor – Richard Gill, Sydney Chamber Choir, Two Pianists / Percussion, With Children’s Chorus from NSW Arts Unit and Penrith region.

MAR Single Tickets: $55 Adult, $50 Concession Or put this in your Subscription Pack to SAVE up to $15 per ticket ONE SHOW ONLY Sun 13 March 3pm

Starring

The youngest ever winner of the prestigious Dame Joan Sutherland Opera Award graces The Joan’s stage for a spectacular April concert – and when you hear her voice it’s easy to see why she won!

ANDRÉ RIEU’S SUBLIME SOLOIST MIRUSIA

Acclaimed as the “Angel of Australia”, Mirusia gained worldwide fame as the featured soprano soloist with André Rieu and the Johann Strauss Orchestra.

Mirusia was invited by André Rieu himself to audition for him in The Netherlands – and as they say, having now thrilled millions around the world with her voice – the rest is history.

On top of her great successes with Rieu, Mirusia has released five solo albums, and was the first classical artist ever to receive a No 1. ARIA Award, after topping the ARIA DVD charts, with an album including Ave Maria, Memory, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again and Botany Bay. This Time Tomorrow is Mirusia’s 2016 Australian tour, as she brings her beautiful voice and charming personality to thousands around the country, including a very special autumn evening in Penrith.

THIS TIME TOMORROW Pure perfection – a spine-tingling performance.

APR Single Tickets: $65 Adult, $60 Concession Or put this in your Subscription Pack to SAVE up to $25 per ticket ONE SHOW ONLY Sat 16 April 8pm

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW With some of the world’s best comedians in town May is the month to laugh. Be in on the biggest jokes in town when Penrith’s favourite comedy roadshow crashes through The Joan’s stage door.

After 16 years of travelling Australia with the best comedians around, this Roadshow really knows how to bring the party, strut its stuff and leave you rolling on the floor laughing!

The superstars of Australia’s biggest comedy festival have been set off the leash and on to the road. From Hobart to Hong Kong and back, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is a comedy odyssey, bringing a raft of the world’s best comedy to one big show for a raucous night out.

“An event no comedy fan should miss.” Satellite “The Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow has such chalk and cheese personalities delivering such a wide assortment of gags, it has everyone’s humour covered.”

The Sunday Times

A night of hilarity with some of Australia’s hottest comic talent on show.

MAY Single Tickets: $45 Adult, $40 Concession Or put this in your Subscription Pack to SAVE $5 per ticket ONE SHOW ONLY Tue 17 May 8pm

Featuring

SYDNEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Conducted by

ROGER BENEDICT

MOZART AT NIGHT Warm your way into winter at The Joan as the musicians of the SSO serenade you with an evening of nocturnal entertainments, poetic revelations and colourful visions in music.

Mozart sets the tone with everyone’s favourite serenade, ‘A Little Night Music’.

After we’ve made you smile, Schoenberg brings a mood of intensity with luscious harmonies and music that soars on the wings of deep human feeling: a couple walk through the night, she makes a revelation, ‘their breath kisses in the air’.

A spellbindingly beautiful musical adventure.

Beecham, Igor Stravinsky and, more recently, Indigenous Australian musician Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu.

Like the Schoenberg, Britten’s songs for tenor and orchestra are inspired by the opulent images of poetry. And the concert ends with Mozart’s wickedly good-humoured ‘Night-time Serenade’.

MOZART Eine kleine Nachtmusik, K525

It’s hard to imagine a program more varied in mood and spirit and so rich with musical delights.

SCHOENBERG Transfigured Night

Sydney Symphony Orchestra Founded in 1932 by the ABC, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra has evolved into one of the world’s finest orchestras. The orchestra’s history boasts collaborations with legendary figures such as Sir Thomas

MOZART Serenata notturna, K239

BRITTEN Les Illuminations Roger Benedict conductor Brenton Spiteri tenor

JUNE Single Tickets: $70 Adult, $65 Concession Or put this in your Subscription Pack to GHT LIGHTS SAVE up to $30 per ticket * WITHreFRadIDoAnYfoNrI more Fri 3 June 8pm*

A Queensland Theatre Company and Queensland Performing Arts Centre production

COUNTRY SONG A fictionalised story inspired by the life of Jimmy Little

By

REG CRIBB Original Concept by

MICHAEL TUAHINE

You’ll laugh, cry, dance and maybe even sing along as this fictionalised story inspired by the life of Jimmy Little comes to Penrith in late July.

icons weave in and out of his life, as they chalk up a list of firsts for their people as Australia goes through a turbulent change.

Country Song is a rollicking celebration featuring music from some of Australia’s renowned Indigenous entertainers and pure entertainment, revelling in the healing power of music.

Michael Tuahine leads a multitalented cast of six actor/ musicians who double as a toe-tappng band belting out over 18 live country and rock’n’roll hits across this two hour show, including Johnny Cash’s Ring of Fire, the iconic Danny Boy and Jimmy’s own cover version of The Church’s Under The Milky Way.

It’s the ‘70s, and Jimmy takes a nostalgic trip through his past from talented teen to honey-voiced guitar-slinger to respected leader. Indigenous

Be swept up in the story, the songs and the sheer enjoyment.

QTC’s Country Song 2016 Tour has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body, and is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.

Penned by Reg Cribb, author of Bran Nu Dae and brought to life

by Wesley Enoch, director of The Sapphires stage play, Country Song had standing ovations throughout its nine-week world premiere season in 2015. “... they laughed and cheered and had a wonderful time.

A standing ovation.” Crikey “If you love good theatre and Australian stories, don’t miss Country Song.”

Northern Star Lismore

JULY Single Tickets: $55 Adult, $50 Concession Or put this in your Subscription Pack to SAVE up to $15 per ticket Sat 23 July 8pm Sun 24 July 2pm

By

TIM WATTS Produced By

THE LAST GREAT HUNT

THE ADVENTURES OF ALVIN SPUTNIK: DEEP SEA EXPLORER Take a deep breath in late July and join intrepid explorer Alvin Sputnik’s quest to save humanity from itself in this…

One-Man-Micro-Epic-PuppetShow That Melds Technology and Multimedia!

This magical show has toured to sold out houses and rave reviews all over the world receiving numerous awards including ‘Outstanding Solo Show’ at the New York International Fringe Festival, ‘Best Theatre’ at Auckland Fringe Festival, ‘Best Puppetry’ at the Adelaide Fringe Festival, and ‘Best Male Performer’ at Dublin Fringe Festival. Let’s just say it leaves audiences spell-bound.

Alvin Sputnik, who has just lost his wife, accepts this perilous mission so that he may follow her soul down to the underworld so that they can be together again once more – a touching story of enduring love and the end of the world.

The seas have risen, billions have died and those who are left live on farms atop skyscrapers, atop mountains.

The scientists have tried everything. Floating islands sank, space probes found nothing, and the giant sponges, visible from the moon, are now rotting icons of failure.

Now science and humanity are turning to the oceans themselves.

A last ditch effort to save the human race requires journeying down through the mysterious depths of the deep blue sea to find a new place for us to live.

Be absorbed, uplifted and engaged, no matter what your age!

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body. This production was originally supported by The Blue Room Theatre and Perth Theatre Company.

It’s only 50 minutes long – but this one’s definitely a case of quality not quantity!

“If Pixar had a theatrical division, one would think (and hope) they’d create something like this show.” NYTheatre.com

JULY Single Tickets: $35 Adult, $30 Concession Or bundle with Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, The Wharf Revue & The Divine Miss Bette and SAVE at least $25 on a year of entertainment!

HT LIGHTS Fri 29 July 8pm* ITHreFRadseIDoeAnpaYfogeNrIGmx ore W * Sat 30 July 2pm Sat 30 July 8pm

Written and Created by

JONATHAN BIGGINS, DREW FORSYTHE & PHILLIP SCOTT

They sing, they dance, they wear funny hats.

Paul Keating once said that politicians come in three varieties: straight men, fixers and maddies. Well, you can be sure all of them will be knocked down a peg or two when The Wharf Revue comes rolling into The Joan in August.

From the inimitable minds of Jonathan Biggins, Drew Forsythe and Phillip Scott comes another instalment of what has become a true Sydney institution. From the movers to the shakers, from the winners to the losers, the stage will be filled with a year’s worth of foolishness.

A Sydney Theatre Company production

THE WHARF REVUE 2016

Musical Director Phillip Scott

And if there’s one thing that a federal election year brings, it’s a smorgasbord of satirical goodies. There’ll be minor party pies, red meat, blue cheese and don’t forget your greens. But most of all, there’ll be laughter.

And lots of it.

Lighting Designer Matthew Marshall With: Jonathan Biggins, Drew Forsythe, Phillip Scott.

“What’s so brilliant… is how the material constantly falls between sharp, incisive satire and deliriously cheap gags.”

Crikey “It truly is a must see.”

Sydney Arts Guide

Razor-sharp political satire and a whole bunch of silliness.

AUG Single Tickets: $70 Adult, $65 Concession Or put this in your Subscription Pack to SAVE up to $30 per ticket Wed 24 August 8pm HT LIGHTS Thurs 25 August 8pm ITHreFRadseIDoeAnpaYfoNgerIGmx ore W * Fri 26 August 8pm* Sat 27 August 2pm, 8pm

ALWAYS… PATSY CLINE

By

TED SWINDLEY

Celebrate the life and music of one of the greatest female vocalists of all time in September with one of America’s most loved musicals – it’s sure to be a hot ticket!

Always...Patsy Cline is more than a tribute to the legendary country singer who died tragically at age 30 in a plane crash in 1963. The show is based on a true story about Cline’s friendship with a fan from Houston named Louise Seger, who befriended the star in a Texas honky-tonk in 1961, and continued a correspondence with Cline until her death.

This musical play, complete with down home country humour and true emotion, includes many of Patsy’s unforgettable hits such as Crazy, I Fall to Pieces, Sweet Dreams and Walking After Midnight…

27 songs in all. The show’s title was inspired by Cline’s letters to Seger, which were consistently signed “Love ALWAYS...Patsy Cline.”

Always…Patsy Cline has enjoyed great success all over the United States, including a successful run off-Broadway. It has been one of the most produced musicals in America according to American Theatre Magazine and has been enjoyed internationally by audiences in Canada, the UK and Australia.

This new production directed by AFI award winning Denny Lawrence stars Courtney Conway, one of Australian country music’s most exciting new talents, alongside popular stage star Mandi Lodge (Menopause® The Musical In Concert).

“Simply irresistible.” Chicago Theatre Review “A heartfelt story that will lift your spirits.”

Chicago Critic Writer Ted Swindley Patsy Cline Courtney Conway Louise Seger Mandi Lodge Director Denny Lawrence Music Director Cameron Thomas Set and Lighting Designer Jacob Battista

Great songs, a great story and an unforgettable night out.

SEPT Single Tickets: $55 Adult, $50 Concession Or put this in your Subscription Pack to SAVE up to $15 per ticket TS Fri 23 September 8pm* WITH FRIDApaY geNrIGmxHoT reLIGH * en fo se o d a re Sat 24 September 2pm Sat 24 September 8pm

MOTHER By

DANIEL KEENE Starring

NONI HAZLEHURST

Directed by

MATT SCHOLTEN If you only see one piece of drama this year, make sure it is here at The Joan in October.

Mother is a performance not to be missed, featuring one of our local region’s most loved performers.

“I said I was a good mother.

They said I was a bad mother.

I didn’t know what they meant.”

A one-woman play written for acclaimed, award winning actor Noni Hazlehurst, Mother is the newest work from the ‘dangerous’ playwright Daniel Keene directed by his long-time collaborator Matt Scholten.

Mother is a fictional story based on the writings of famous

Australian writer Dorothy Hewett and the ancient Greek play Medea. Mother is a uniquely Australian piece of theatre that honestly tackles the issues of motherhood, poverty and isolation. The combination of powerful script writing, tender direction and Noni’s magnetising performance make for a surprisingly touching and insightful night of intimate theatre.

and amuses herself with telling anyone who will listen to the story of her colourful, troubled life.

Christie is a homeless, aging woman, living on the outskirts of suburbia. She is something of a celebrity, attracting the curiosity of the locals, she’s not shy of an audience

“Daniel Keene is indisputably one of Australia’s most poetic, thoughtful and probing playwrights.” Bryce Hallett

Authenticity, honesty and a powerhouse performance. This show has sold out houses around the country. Don’t miss it.

Photo: Serena Ryan

One of Australia’s leading actresses, Noni Hazlehurst has received two Logies as well as four AFI Awards for her prolific television and film work.

“Hazlehurst gives an authoritative performance, steeped in vulnerability.”

Sydney Morning Herald

OCT Single Tickets: $55 Adult, $50 Concession Or put this in your Subscription Pack to SAVE up to $15 per ticket HT LIGHTS Fri 7 October 8pm* ITHreFRadIDoAnYfoNrIGmore W * Sat 8 October 2pm Sat 8 October 8pm

TEDDY & GRETA LIVE IN CONCERT Two of Australia’s very best opera stars grace the stage here at The Joan for the first time ever, in this one-night-only trip to music nirvana.

Starring

TEDDY TAHU RHODES AND GRETA BRADMAN

As recently seen on Australian Story, Greta Bradman – granddaughter of cricketing legend Sir Don – is going places quickly with her career. Greta’s latest album, My Hero, debuted at #1 on the ARIA Classical Charts in August 2015, with critics likening Greta’s voice to Joan Sutherland herself. It’s also fitting that one of Greta’s biggest fans is Joan’s husband Richard Bonynge, given that the Concert Hall she will be performing in is named after him.

Joining Greta is ‘Opera’s Man Mountain’, the double Helpmann award winning bass-baritone Teddy Tahu Rhodes.

In his phenomenal career, Teddy has performed on the world’s most prestigious stages with some of the world’s top opera companies, as well as with every Australian symphony orchestra, and is equally adept as leading man in musical theatre (The King and I, South Pacific) as he is playing opera’s Don Giovanni or Figaro to spellbound audiences.

“The palette of Bradman’s voice is stunning in its richness and variety.”

The Australian “The thrill of Rhodes’ gravelly, sepulchral bass-baritone breaks new ground.”

Sydney Morning Herald

Big voices, big thrills, and a brilliant night out.

Photo: Jeff Busby

NOV Single Tickets: $70 Adult, $65 Concession Or put this in your Subscription Pack IGHT LIGHTS to SAVE up to $30 per ticket * WITH FRseIDeApaY geN x ONE SHOW ONLY Sat 19 November 8pm

T H G I N Y A FRIDIGHTS L 5-8pm

before the following shows…

22 January The Divine Miss Bette 26 February Teacup In A Storm 29 July The Adventures of Alvin Sputnik: Deep Sea Explorer 26 August The Wharf Revue 23 September Always…Patsy Cline 7 October Mother

Fabulous Food & Fantastic Drinks Light snacks and a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are available before and after all of the shows in this brochure.

We’re thrilled to announce that for the Friday evening performances in our 2016 Season we’re taking things a step further – Welcome to Friday Night Lights!

Pop-Up Lounge Bar Friday Night Lights is a pop-up event from 5pm-8pm before a Friday evening 2016 Season performance here at The Joan in one of our great lounges. Think tempting cocktails, fabulous-and-filling finger food and a cosy atmosphere with plenty of comfy nooks. A perfect way to wind down from the week before enjoying a show.

Great Local Music Local singer-songwriters and musicians will be performing at each Friday Night Lights bringing you an eclectic range of styles from funky soul and blues to prog-rock-tronica, smooth tunes and acoustic pop. For more details and performer announcements check thejoan.com.au closer to each night.

We’d love to see you there!

Kids at The Joan: The Moon’s a Balloon (Patch Theatre Company) June 2016

Morning Melodies: European Classics, the first in a year of great concerts

WHAT’S ON AT THE JOAN

The Subscription Season is one of many performance seasons on offer here at The Joan in 2016. We are always on the lookout for shows that cater for the wide range of ages and interests of people in Penrith and its regions. Here’s a snapshot of What’s On At The Joan all year round.

Morning Melodies The Joan’s longest continually running season moves into its 26th year in 2016. As well as a monthly trip down a musical memory lane led by legends of Australian music, the morning wouldn’t be complete without an abundant Devonshire morning tea served with a smile by Penrith’s Red Cross ladies.

Kids at The Joan Underwater dinosaurs, the world’s biggest treehouse, two very famous princes, seesawing gumnut fairies, and dancing balloons that resemble the moon. Aimed at 3-12 year olds, but just as captivating for their adults – each school holidays and some weekends too – local kids and their families will be spoiled for choice here at The Joan in 2016.

Schools at The Joan In 2016 local high schools will have the opportunity to richly and deeply connect with The Q’s contemporary performance program and one of the world’s most celebrated chamber ensembles, with local primary schools having the opportunity to see top quality shows from around Australia, and engage with the Australian Chamber Orchestra’s Music and Art program too.

MORE

Brave New Work: Never Did Me Any Harm (Force Majeure), August 2016

THERE’S

BNW Brave New Work For those who like their performance experiences with a difference this is the season for you – ideas to make you think, in ways that make you notice. And we’d love you to hang around after the show for a cider, craft beer and dj to reflect on what just happened.

The Joan is a great place to be on a Sunday afternoon in Penrith – with a fabulous winter world music series, ACO Collective and Penrith Strings workshops and concerts, top class theatre, champagne and cheese, and new pop-up events to be announced as the year rolls on!

Richard Bonynge Piano Series Piano Recitals at The Joan are the new black, with audiences continuing to grow for this four show season. And why wouldn’t they – when concert after concert you get to experience the world’s finest pianists playing on the grandest of pianos in the stunning acoustics of the Richard Bonynge Concert Hall!

Stay Tuned We will be announcing new season dates for all of these throughout 2016, so make sure you sign up to The Joan’s e-newsletter to be the first in the know about on-sale dates and the latest information on each of these seasons.

Keep an eye on our Facebook page facebook.com/joansutherland performingartscentre for the inside stories on The Joan and our creative community too!

Sundays at The Joan: Hetty Kate, May 2016

Sundays at The Joan

INSPIRE-EXCITE-ENGAGE

LEARNING AT THE JOAN

As well as the myriad of great shows performed here each year, The Joan has a thriving learning program, with hundreds of local people involved each week – whether it’s learning an instrument, joining a choir, exploring acting or performing on one of our stages. Giving people the opportunity to experience the arts themselves, and develop their own skills is a big part of what we are about.

Penrith Conservatorium of Music Individual Tuition Music Lessons for all ages and stages.

We specialize in classical and contemporary piano and voice, and also offer violin, viola, cello, flute, clarinet, saxophone, harp, contemporary and classical guitar, bass, banjo, music theory and composition.

Early Music Education Lessons for kids from the ages of 1-7.

Ensembles Violin, Strings, Flute and more to come!

Choir The Joan Kids Chorus.

Support We have eight great Scholarship opportunities on offer in 2016.

Penrith Strings In 2016, the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Penrith Symphony Orchestra and The Joan continue their exciting new education and mentoring partnership to create the Penrith Youth Orchestra Program.

Examinations The Conservatorium is also a major examination centre for the Australian Music Education Board (AMEB), and Trinity College or Australian and New Zealand Cultural Arts Limited.

For more information about these programs contact Heather Davies: heather.davies@ penrithcity.nsw.gov.au or phone 02 4723 7611.

studioQ Acting Courses studioQ is a place where young people can learn about the craft of acting, create new theatre works and connect with their fellow performing artists, with regular performance opportunities. studioQ offers workshops on eight Saturdays each term including Starting Out for Ages 5-8; Stepping Up for Ages 9-12; Ignite for Ages 13-15 and Accelerate for Ages 16-18. studioQ also offers a weekly acting course for people of all ages who are living with disabilities.

School Holiday Workshops The learning doesn’t stop when the holidays start! Each school holidays The Joan hosts a series of theatre and music activities to keep young minds firing. These workshops are the perfect way to get a taste of acting, performing and music-making over a few fun-packed hours.

Schools We love working with our local schools and welcoming students into our venue. We offer a wide range of shows for schools throughout the year, Q&As with cast and crew, Venue Tours, Flexible Workshops tailored to your area of study, Work Placements and more!

For more information about these programs contact Rowan Bate: rowan.bate@penrithcity. nsw.gov.au or (02) 4723 7611.

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THE

2016

On for Young and Old… The Q is a producer of contemporary performance projects based at The Joan.

The Q has evolved from the creative lineage of the Q Theatre Company and its more than fifty years of commitment to the presentation and production of new theatre works.

On stage The Q ‘16 will host community storytelling events with ‘Teacup in a Storm’ and ‘Mini Gras’ both in a jam packed February. We’ll kick down new doors with ‘Want Not’ in June and ‘Leda and the Swan’ in August with the help of young and emerging artists and return to the classics with a contemporary adaptation of ‘Frankenstein’ in November.

Back stage The Q ’16 will continue to scan Penrith and beyond for exciting artists and projects through its artist in residence program Q Lab as well as a series of exciting new opportunities for playwrights, directors and creative people.

For More Information If you’d like more information on The Q or its 2016 program contact Producer of New Work Nick Atkins on nick@jspac.com.au

S U T R O P P U

S

There are many ways of working with The Joan to support local creative projects, from partnerships and sponsorships to individual donations and bequests. Our partners and supporters are an enormous part of what we do and are a vital element of our success.

Donations For a not-for-profit arts organisation, every donation is valuable, and the combined support we receive from our community helps enormously. The price of your ticket covers only a percentage of the costs involved in bringing you a show. The gift of giving is priceless and we gratefully welcome your support.

All donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible.

Partnerships We approach all sponsorship and partnership arrangements with a philosophy of mutual benefit to deliver bespoke programs with unique outcomes.

As well as offering value to your business, its brand and its community profile, partnerships with The Joan also enrich at a local level, offering benefits back to the community where they really make a difference. For instance, supporting the community access element of a production – providing support for free or reduced cost-tickets to those who couldn’t otherwise attend – offers huge social return for your business and is a great basis for a long-term partnership.

We are also able to offer partnerships that support creative engagement for students, young people and people with disabilities.

For more information and to make a tax deductible donation securely online visit thejoan.com.au

WHO WE ARE Penrith Performing & Visual Arts (PP&VA) was established in 2007, and is an internationally unique (and ambitious) amalgam of the visual arts, performing arts and arts education.

PP&VA produces and presents dynamic cultural and arts education programs for the people of Penrith, western Sydney and beyond, and comprises:

Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre A superb venue presenting the best in music, theatre and dance. The Joan is also home to Penrith Conservatorium of Music, which provides quality music education for students of all ages and abilities; and The Q, which provides theatre training to young people aged 5-18, and people with a disability, as well as making innovative and communityfocused performances, building on the substantial legacy of the Q Theatre Company.

Penrith Regional Gallery & the Lewers Bequest Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest is set on the western bank of the Nepean River at the foot of the Blue Mountains at Emu Plains, and was established in 1981 at the

former home and property of sculptor Gerald Lewers and painter Margo Lewers. Each year tens of thousands of visitors delight in the Gallery’s dynamic exhibitions, events, education programs, splendid gardens and weekend café.

Within our beautiful heritage setting we aim to develop and maintain a visual arts centre of excellence and diversity for the enjoyment and benefit of the people of Penrith, the surrounding region and beyond.

Penrith Performing & Visual Arts Ltd Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre PO Box 2 Penrith NSW 2751 597 High Street Penrith Box Office 02 4723 7600 or thejoan.com.au Administration 02 4723 7611 Fax 02 4731 3701

Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest 86 River Road Emu Plains NSW 2750 Administration 02 4735 1100 Fax 02 4735 8334 penrithregionalgallery.org

O E C E H FROMA TRADVAN HANI We love seeing our community coming together to enjoy shared experiences, whether they’re inventive, provocative and entertaining performances, spine-tingling musical concerts or laid-back gigs in a comfy lounge with a cool beverage.

With great quality entertainment right here on our doorstep, there’s no need to travel far for a good night out, so why not grab a friend and join us? Friday Night Lights will transform our foyers into a twinkling wonderland with a live and local feel: an energised social space for you to drop in, share a show, unwind and enjoy.

As always, we love to hear what you think, and your ideas are always welcome. Please feel free to drop us a line. You can find us easily on social media and all our email contacts are on our website thejoan.com.au I look forward to welcoming you to The Joan in 2016.

Hania Radvan CEO – PP&VA

Therese Cook Artist

“Being part of The Joan’s creative community means belonging to future imaginings, dreamings and storytellings of a culturally exuberant and diverse region.”

Michelle Bamber Subscriber

“Since becoming a subscriber I have seen more performances than ever before in my life. I love the fact that I can go out and see a show and see people I know. I also love being able to do life locally and support the local community. I love that the Joan celebrates diversity.”

Josiah Bamber Access Ensemble

“I am now going to a drama class at The Joan.

I think I will be a great actor. I am going with my friends. I hope we will see more shows next year as well … maybe I will be in a show!”

Teri Hughes-Everard Tutor

“Teri (pictured) is someone who really puts her students first. I am constantly in awe of her knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the voice – she really knows her instrument and is not only open to learn about your personal musical tastes but has an intuitive understanding of what will work well for you. Teri is a truly talented teacher and I feel blessed that I am able to have her as my mentor and be a part of the vibrant community here at the Joan.”

Claire, PCOM Student

LOCALS AT THE JOAN

Local people participating in the arts are at the heart of what The Joan does, and in 2016 we’re thrilled to welcome a wide range of organisations who enable this to happen here throughout the year. For a taste of the local flavour here’s a quick look at four community groups who proudly call The Joan their home.

Penrith Musical Comedy Company Penrith Musical Comedy Company has been producing quality affordable musicals since 1978. Some highlights have been the premieres of In The Heights, Xanadu and Legally Blonde. Other highlights include Hairspray, Spelling Bee, Shout, The Wedding Singer and Joseph.

2016 will see the staging of The Boy From Oz, the story of Peter Allen. The Boy From Oz is the most successful Australian musical ever and the first to make it to Broadway. It is a musical biography/tribute to the late great Peter Allen.

Another show is planned for 2016 so keep checking pmcc.org.au and Facebook. Penrith Musical Comedy Company can be contacted through their Facebook page or via penrithmusical@gmail.com

Penrith Symphony Orchestra

Blue Mountains Nepean Dance Festival

Penrith Symphony Orchestra is recognised as one of Australia’s leading pro-am orchestras.

As Orchestra-in-Residence at The Joan, it presents the only annual concert season in Western Sydney featuring major symphonic, oratorio and operatic repertoire.

It collaborates regularly with leading professional soloists, emerging artists and composers, and with local choirs. In 2015, the orchestra partnered with the Australian Chamber Orchestra and The Joan to establish Penrith Strings, a youth orchestral training program which is the first step towards a youth orchestra affiliated with Penrith Symphony Orchestra.

To find out more or get involved visit pso.org.au or email president@pso.org.au

One of Penrith’s most popular community dance celebrations, the Blue Mountains Nepean Dance Festival has been running for nearly 25 years and has engaged many thousands of young, enthusiastic and talented performers from schools across our region, with many returning as dance teachers and parents. The Festival features over 2,600 students from more than 50 schools in a dance programme covering 130 acts.

Blue Mountains Nepean Dance Festival is open to local public schools in the Penrith and Blue Mountains region. For more information contact committee @bmdancefestival.com

Nsw State Band Championships 2016 marks the 120th Anniversary of the NSW State Band Championships, organised by the Band Association of NSW. The Championships include concert and brass band divisions from throughout NSW resulting in a spectacular weekend of colour and excitement in August/September here at The Joan, as hundreds of talented players visit Penrith en masse to vie for glory and have a great time. The Championships also include a non-competitive event for bands who would like to just be part of the experience. Any band registered with the Band Association of NSW is welcome to be involved. Contact secretary@bandnsw.com

For regularly updated information about these activities keep an eye on the Locals At The Joan and What’s On sections of our website.

The Perfect Venue for Your Next Event Boasting facilities to accommodate from 1 to 580 people, The Joan is an ideal venue for your next conference, event or show, with access to professional staff, catering, technical and conference equipment.

Located within close proximity to the Council Chambers, Penrith City Library and Westfield Penrith, The Joan boasts a 580 seat concert hall, 378 seat drama theatre, 90 seat performance studio, 2 Foyers, 2 Bars, 4 Rehearsal/Meeting Rooms and 23 Small Studios/ Office Spaces – it really is the perfect venue! For more information contact us via admin@jspac.com.au or on (02) 4723 7611.

, E R T N E C R YOU UR VISIT YO Box Office

Special Access Programs

Location

Our Box Office is open between 9.00am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday, and one hour before each performance.

We also offer a range of access programs for under 25s, people with a disability and their carers, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders – for further information contact rowan.bate @penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre is at 597 High Street, Penrith and is situated opposite the Council Chambers and Penrith Plaza. The Box Office is located on the ground floor near the bar and lift.

Infants Attending Performances

Getting to The Joan

Phone (02) 4723 7600 Fax (02) 4731 3701 Email boxoffice@jspac.com.au

Internet Bookings Booking online is easy!

Simply go to our website thejoan.com.au, browse our program and click through to book. You can also subscribe online. Online bookings incur a $4 transaction fee.

Payment Credit Card (Visa or Mastercard), Cheque or Money Order made out to Penrith Performing & Visual Arts Ltd, Cash (please do not post). All bookings except for cash incur a $4 transaction fee.

Concessions Concession pricing is available for any type of pensioners, Australian Government Health Care Card holders, as well as full time tertiary, TAFE and school students only. We do not accept Seniors Cards as a concession.

Generally infants aged two years and under do not require a ticket to attend performances at The Joan provided they can sit on a parent’s lap. The exception to this is when a performance is specially programmed for this age group.

The Joan has baby change facilities and a lift available.

The Joan is easy to reach, either by train or car. We are a five minute walk from Penrith station, through Penrith Plaza.

If you’re coming by car, you’ll find us located just off Mulgoa Road, on High Street. There are several parking options nearby.

Access Information

Easy Ways to Submit

Checklist

The Joan is committed to ensuring access for all people.

Online

Before sending, please check the following

Our Box Office and Front-ofHouse staff will be happy to assist with any needs.

Mail

• Wheelchair spaces • Accessible seating • Companion card accepted • Hearing loops in the Q Theatre • Audio-described performances • Lifts from ground floor

The Fine Print For more detailed subscriber information including ticketing terms and conditions, ticket exchanges and our privacy statement please visit our website thejoan.com.au

Subscriptions are available at our website thejoan.com.au You can put your completed form in the mail and Australia Post will deliver it to our door.

2016 Subscriptions Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre PO BOX 2 PENRITH NSW 2751

In Person

Come and say hello to our friendly Box Office staff. Drop your completed form off at The Joan, 597 High Street, Penrith.

Please be aware that during peak times it may not be possible for your subscription to be processed on the spot.

Your tickets will be emailed or posted to you.

Please Note

Contact Details Please ensure these are clearly written and that you have included your mobile phone and email address as these are the easiest ways for us to contact you.

Choose Your Shows Make sure you have selected the package you want (4, 6 or 8 shows) and the performances you want to see, with all the relevant boxes ticked or filled in.

Seating Requirements Please make sure you’ve let us know if you have special needs.

Concession Cards If claiming a concession, include a photocopy of your concession card.

Totals Please make sure you’ve completed your adding up and payment details.

Details are correct at time of printing. We reserve the right to alter without notice program, performers, dates, times and/ or prices as may become necessary.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE READ ON

FOR DETAILS

If you need help with your subscription or would like to package more than 8 shows, please call 4723 7600 or check our website for more hints thejoan.com.au

CHOOSE YOUR PACK AND TICKET TYPE

YOUR DETAILS

4 Pack SAVE between $5-$95 Adult $180

Concession $160

6 Pack SAVE between $45-$135 Adult $246

Concession $216

8 Pack SAVE between $85-$175 Adult $320

Concession $280

Title First Name Last Name Address

Suburb Postcode Email

Ph (Home) Ph (Work) Ph (Mobile) Would you like to be added to our emailing list for updates and offers?

Please email me my subscription tickets Please post me my tickets

$ TOTAL SUBSCRIPTION Carry total to Total Subscription box over the page.

CHOOSE YOUR SHOWS AND DATES AND ADD ANY GUEST TICKETS Please complete the form over the page.

Want to bring a guest or a group of friends?

No problem. If your guest or group of friends are subscribing as well simply submit your forms together.

If they aren’t subscribing and you are purchasing tickets for them to attend with you, please fill in ‘additional guest tickets’ over the page, tally them for each show, and include the total additional amount in the grand total (your subscription + your guest tickets).

Please indicate your concession type (attach a photocopy if mailing) Pensioner Student (full time tertiary, TAFE and school)

SPECIFIC SEATING REQUIREMENTS Wheelchair position Aisle seat Accessible seat

PAYMENT METHOD 1. Cheque (Payable to Penrith Performing & Visual Arts Ltd) 2. Cash (Payable at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre Box Office) 3. Credit Card

GRAND TOTAL $ From the Grand Total box over the page.

Please debit my MasterCard Visa Card Number

Expiry Date

/

Cardholder Name:

Last 3 digits on back:

Signature:

You can also purchase your subscription online thejoan.com.au

CHOOSE YOUR SHOWS AND DATES AND ADD ANY GUEST TICKETS Show Month Date

Additional guest tickets Adult Concession Total guest ticket (number in box) (number in box) amount per show $ 55 50

The Divine Miss Bette

January Friday 22 January 8pm

The Divine Miss Bette

January Saturday 23 January 2pm

55

50

$

The Divine Miss Bette

January Saturday 23 January 8pm

55

50

$

Teacup in a Storm

February Thursday 25 February 8pm

50

45

$

Teacup in a Storm

February Friday 26 February 8pm

50

45

$

Teacup in a Storm

February Saturday 27 February 8pm

50

45

$

Sacred & Profane

March

Sunday 13 March 3pm

55

50

$

This Time Tomorrow – Mirusia

April

Saturday 16 April 8pm

65

60

$

MICF Roadshow

May

Tuesday 17 May 8pm

45

40

$

Mozart at Night

June

Friday 3 June 8pm

70

65

$

Country Song

July

Saturday 23 July 8pm

55

50

$

Country Song

July

Sunday 24 July 2pm

55

50

$

The Adventures of Alvin Sputnik July

Friday 29 July 8pm

35

30

$

The Adventures of Alvin Sputnik July

Saturday 30 July 2pm

35

30

$

The Adventures of Alvin Sputnik July

Saturday 30 July 8pm

35

30

$

The Wharf Revue

August

Wednesday 24 August 8pm

70

65

$

The Wharf Revue

August

Thursday 25 August 8pm

70

65

$

The Wharf Revue

August

Friday 26 August 8pm

70

65

$

The Wharf Revue

August

Saturday 27 August 2pm

70

65

$

The Wharf Revue

August

Saturday 27 August 8pm

70

65

$

Always…Patsy Cline

September Friday 23 September 8pm

55

50

$

Always…Patsy Cline

September Saturday 24 September 2pm

55

50

$

Always…Patsy Cline

September Saturday 24 September 8pm

55

50

$

Mother

October Friday 7 October 8pm

55

50

$

Mother

October Saturday 8 October 2pm

55

50

$

Mother

October Saturday 8 October 8pm

55

50

$

$ Teddy & Greta – Live in Concert November Saturday 19 November 8pm 70 65

TOTAL GUEST TICKETS $

(from Subscriptions Options over the page) TOTAL SUBSCRIPTION $ TRANSACTION FEE $ 4.00

Don’t forget there’s

a checklist to help.

Carry over to ‘Grand Total’ on payment form over the page.

GRAND TOTAL

$

Photography for The Joan by Katrina James, Design by Rachel Anning

S H T N O M 2 1 TASTIC N A F F O AINMENT T R E T EN

PENRITH PERFORMING & VISUAL ARTS LTD Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre PO Box 2 Penrith NSW 2751 597 High Street Penrith Box Office 02 4723 7600 or thejoan.com.au Administration 02 4723 7611 Fax 02 4731 3701 Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest 86 River Road Emu Plains NSW 2750 Administration 02 4735 1100 Fax 02 4735 8334 penrithregionalgallery.org

www thejoan.com.au facebook JoanSutherlandPerformingArtsCentre twitter @_the_joan