A Spectacular Season Of Entertainment At Liverpool's Theatrical Gem!

Image Source: Epstein Theatre

Written By: Mark Armstrong

The Epstein Theatre are continuing their exciting season of entertainment for autumn/winter 2017 - from thought-provoking drama to sing-along musicals, great music, hilarious comedy and fun for all the family. You can book tickets for the shows at www.epsteinliverpool.co.uk/whats-on.

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Epstein Theatre

Former Never Mind The Buzzcocks chairman Simon Amstell is embarking on his fifth UK tour, What Is This, which promises to be a deeply personal, funny exploration of beauty, intimacy, freedom, sex and love. See him on November 2.

Gok Wan – Naked and Baring All, on November 15, sees the TV fashion guru revealing all about his life, from humble beginnings on a Leicester council estate, to becoming one of the country’s most recognised faces.

Award-winning Jason Byrne returns to the Epstein on November 23 with his hilarious new show The Man With Three Brains. The fastest thinking comic around will not only trip himself up, but probably you too.

Music lovers are in for a treat this season with the Epstein’s musical offering which has something for everyone – from My Leonard Cohen, a tribute to the great singer-songwriter from October 13-15, to Wannabe – The Spice Girls Story (October 19).

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Epstein Theatre

There are also tributes to the late great Marc Bolan, 40 years after his death, with a visit from T.Rextasy on November 16, while the next evening the music of Swedish superstars Abba is celebrated in Gimmie Abba.

And there are also a host of original artists making a date with the Epstein during the Autumn.

You won’t want to miss The Pies + Mark Roberts on October 20. Liverpool’s legendary graffiti band will play a rare live set at the Epstein following up on the release of their Best of Pies album. And they will be supported by the world’s greatest streaker, Mark Roberts, doing a stand-up spot.

Liverpool favourite Joe Longthorne appears at the theatre on November 3 in a show that was originally due to take place at the end of May. He will appear with his sensational live band and a special guest artist. And 80s singer Hazel O’Connor brings her big vocals to Liverpool on November 21, performing all the hits from her first three albums including Breaking Glass.

Image Source: Epstein Theatre

And it may be cold outside but it will be hot, hot, hot in the auditorium when the hunky Dreamboys pay a visit to the theatre on November 24. The UK’s top male strip show is perfect for a girls night out with all your friends. It’s a hard knock life for LHK Youth Theatre which presents Annie the Musical from November 10-12, while The Heath Perform and LIPA 4:19 present a special schools edition of the iconic musical Les Miserables on November 18-19.

Young audiences are at the heart of much of the Epstein’s Autumn programme.

Image Source: Epstein Theatre

Click your heels and follow the yellow brick road to make a date for the hugely popular The Wizard of Oz, starring EastEnders’ Cheryl Fergison as the Wicked Witch of the West, which comes to the theatre for three days from October 27-29.

Little ones will love The Night Pirates on November 4-5. Adapted from the best-selling children’s book by Peter Harris and Deborah Allwright, it tells the tale of a group of little girl pirates who descend on a young boy called Tom at bedtime. Eager to join the pirate adventure, Tom uses his house as a pirate ship and sets sail to retrieve stolen treasure from Captain Patch and the bumbling grown-up pirates.

Finally, this year’s fantastic festive show sees a return for the boy who never grew up. Families are invited to fly away on a flight of fancy and fun with Peter Pan. The show features 90s boyband star Dane Bowers as Peter Pan’s arch nemesis Captain Hook, 2016 Britain’s Got Talent contestant Lewis Pryor flying across the stage as the titular Peter, and Radio City’s Claire Simmo who will be adding lots of glitz and sparkle as Tinkerbell.

Rebekah Pichilingi, theatre manager, commented: “Yet again we’ve put together a brilliant line-up of shows for our autumn/winter season, with something to appeal to everyone, whatever your taste or budget, from comedy to family entertainment, and drama to some great musical tributes and original artists.

“The team and I are confident we will be welcoming you back once more to this delightful theatre in the heart of Liverpool.”

SHOW LISTINGS:

My Leonard Cohen
Date: Friday October 13–Sunday October 15
Time: 8pm (Friday), 1.30pm and 8pm (Saturday), 6pm (Sunday)
Tickets: From £16

Wannabe – The Spice Girls Show
Date: Thursday October 19
Time: 8pm
Tickets: £19.50. Concessions £17.50.

The Pies + Mark Roberts
Date: Friday October 20
Time: 8pm
Tickets: £16

The Wizard Of Oz
Date: Friday October 27–Sunday October 29
Time: 6pm (Friday), 10.30am, 1pm and 6pm (Saturday), 12pm and 4pm (Sunday).
Tickets: From £13

Simon Amstell: What Is This?
Date: Thursday November 2
Time: 8pm
Tickets: £24

Joe Longthorne
Date: Friday November 3
Time: 7.30pm
Tickets: £23.50

The Night Pirates
Date: Saturday November 4–Sunday November 5
Time: 1.30pm (Saturday), 11am and 2pm (Sunday)
Tickets: £13.50. Family ticket £46.

Annie - The Musical
Date: Friday November 10–Sunday November 12
Time: 7pm (Friday), 1.30pm and 6pm (Saturday), 2pm (Sunday)
Tickets: £16.50. Concessions £14.50.

Gok Wan – Naked and Baring All
Date: Wednesday November 15
Time: 7.30pm
Tickets: £26

T.Rextasy
Date: Thursday November 16
Time: 8pm
Tickets: £20

Gimmie Abba
Date: Friday November 17
Time: 1.30pm (Saturday), 11am and 2pm (Sunday)
Tickets: £19.50. Concessions £17.50.

The Heath Perform/Lipa 4:19 ‘Les Miserables’
Date: Saturday November 18–Sunday November 19
Time: 7pm (Saturday), 2pm and 7pm (Sunday)
Tickets: £15/£13

Hazel O’Connor
Date: Tuesday November 21
Time: 7.30pm
Tickets: £26

Jason Byrne – The Man With Three Brains
Date: Thursday November 23
Time: 8pm
Tickets: £20.50

The Dreamboys
Date: Friday November 24
Time: 3pm and 7pm
Tickets: £23.50. VIP tickets £28.50

Jack and The Beanstalk
Date: Saturday December 2
Time: 7.30pm
Tickets: £16

Peter Pan
Date: Friday December 8–Monday January 1
Time: Start times vary
Tickets: From £10-£63

To book tickets, please call 0844 888 4411* or go online at www.epsteinliverpool.co.uk*, or in person at the Epstein Theatre Box Office from 2pm-6pm from Monday-Thursday and 12pm-6pm from Friday-Saturday.

*Subject to booking fee. All prices include a £1 per ticket venue restoration levy

For more details, check out www.epsteinliverpool.co.uk and join our mailing list. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/EpsteinTheatre and on Twitter @EpsteinTheatre.

Action-Packed July Guaranteed At The Epstein Theatre

Image Source: Epstein Theatre

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: The Epstein Theatre

Be sure to get down to The Epstein Theatre this July as there is a whole host of fantastic performances on offer. With end of year showcases, comedy nights, live performances and musicals, there really is something for everyone.

Go on an epic journey through dance, music and drama on Wednesday July 5 with Wigan and Leigh College: End of Year Showcase. Expect contemporary and lyrical dance, well-loved and devised acting pieces, stunning vocalists, as well as show-stopping musical theatre numbers from top West End shows that will be choreographed by former West End leading actor Graham Tudor. To top it all off, this magical performance will be compered by Wigan-born Hollyoaks actor, Helen Noble.

Get ready to do the ‘bend and snap’ as LHK Youth Theatre present Legally Blonde: The  Musical on Friday July 7 and Saturday July 8. Based on the hit movie, the show tells the story of college sweetheart Elle Woods, who tries to win her ex-boyfriend back by getting a law degree! Find out what happens to Elle when she finds herself defending a work-out queen in a murder trial... will Blonde save the day? Complete with memorable songs and dynamic dances, this musical is so much fun it should be illegal.

The Heath Performing Arts Academy in association with LIPA 4:19 are delighted to be back for the third year to present their end of year musical theatre and dramatic showcase, Spectacular. Join them for an evening of wonderful entertainment on Sunday July 9.

An Audience With Stan Boardman will give a fascinating insight into Stan’s life and growing up in Liverpool when it arrives onstage on Saturday July 15. From Scottie Road and being bombed out by the Germans during the War, this unscripted show will be unique and entertaining, and Stan will document his struggles and successes. Along with the laughs, for the very first time the show will give a fascinating insight into Stan's life and growing up in Liverpool.

Tread is delighted to be celebrating its 10th anniversary at The Epstein Theatre with Tread 10th Anniversary Showcase on Sunday July 16. The show features an incredible fusion of work from the past 10 years as well as new and exciting material!  Promising fabulous performances which will showcase the immense talent Tread have at their academies across the North West.

Wrapping things up this July is Gary Murphy’s Guitar Legends – The Rock and Roll Years, a show you will not want to miss on Thursday July 27. Performed by Gary and his multi-talented band, the story is narrated by BBC Radio Merseyside’s Billy Butler, who gives an insight into the lives and songs of some of our best loved guitar heroes including Bill Haley, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, Duane Eddy, The Shadows, The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Dave Gilmour, Albert Lee, Angus Young and many more.

Theatre manager Rebekah Pichilingi commented: “There’s plenty to choose from this July as we welcome a whole host of talent to The Epstein Theatre. It’s that time of year again and we are delighted to welcome local youngsters for their end of year showcases. With music and comedy also on the line up this month, there’s no better place for top quality entertainment!”

Check out the website to see what’s on this season and book your tickets now at www.epsteinliverpool.co.uk/whats-on or take a look at the summer brochure at
http://issuu.com/epsteintheatre/docs/epstein_-_brochure_may_-_artworked_.

Casting announced for Billy Elliot: The Musical

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

After a successful press call outside Liverpool Empire Theatre, the producers of the multi award-winning smash hit Billy Elliot: The Musical are delighted to announce casting for the show's run at the Liverpool Empire from May 10-May 27.

Anna-Jane Casey will play Mrs Wilkinson, Martin Walsh will play Dad, Scott Garnham will play Tony, and Andrea Miller will play Grandma. They are joined by Adam Abbou (14 years old from Liverpool), Emile Gooding (12 years old from Reading), Haydn May (12 years old from Bath) and Lewis Smallman (13 years old from West Bromwich), who all play the title role.

Anna-Jane Casey returns to the role of Mrs Wilkinson, having successfully played the role at the Victoria Palace in the West End in 2014. Her many other West End credits include Mavis in Stepping Out, Anita in West Side Story, Velma Kelly in Chicago, Lady of the Lake in Spamalot, Dinah and Pearl in Starlight Express, Rumpleteaser in Cats, and Dot in Sunday in the Park with George at the Menier Chocolate Factory. Anna-Jane has also appeared as the title role in Annie Get Your Gun, Piaf and Sweet Charity, all at the Sheffield Crucible. She appeared as Mabel in Mack and Mabel at the Watermill Theatre, receiving the TMA Award for Best Performance in a Musical.

Martin Walsh’s TV credits include Game of Thrones, Downton Abbey, Coronation Street, Rovers for Sky 1, The Trials of Jimmy Rose and Shameless.

Scott Garnham’s many West End credits include Les Misérables and the original casts of I Can’t Sing and Made In Dagenham. His other theatre credits include Titanic at the Princess of Wales Theatre in Toronto, Grand Hotel at Southwark Playhouse and the UK tour of Never Forget.

Andrea Miller has appeared in numerous musicals including Sweeney Todd, Into the Woods, Blood Brothers and Annie. She most recently appeared in Sister Act.

Adam Abbou trained at Nazene Danielle’s Dance Dynamix and has competed in various regional and national dance championships. He has previously appeared as Jerome in South Pacific and Nibs in Peter Pan, both at the Liverpool Empire.

Emile Gooding has played Eric in Matilda at the Cambridge Theatre in the West End and has also appeared in English National Ballet’s production of Swan Lake at the Royal Albert Hall. During his time training, he won awards at a number of local and national dance competitions including the All-England Dance (2013) and Janet Cram Awards (2015).

Haydn May trained at the Dorothy Coleborn School of Dancing and is a member of Tap Attack in Swindon and the Bristol Hawks Gymnastics Club. He has appeared as Chip in Beauty and the Beast, Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz and Michael in Peter Pan, all at the Theatre Royal, Bath.

Lewis Smallman trained at Arabesque Dance Academy and Renaissance Arts. He has appeared in the English Youth Ballet’s Swan Lake and as Kurt in The Sound of Music at Sutton Town Hall. He is also a keen gymnast with Sandwell Flyers Gymnastic Academy.

The company also includes Leo Atkin, Tom Bainbridge, Deborah Bundy, Jack Butterworth, Luke Cinque-White, Donna Combe, Leon de Graaf, Wayne Fitzsimmons, Nikki Gerrard, Abbie Louise Harris, Ruri James, Leon Kay, Kris Manuel, Kiera Marner, Charlie Martin, Barnaby Meredith, Daniel Page, Ben Redfern, Phil Snowden, Rachel Spurrell, Sebastian Sykes, Milan Van Weelden, Amy Rhiannon Worth and Luke Zammit.

Set in a northern mining town, against the background of the 1984/85 miners’ strike, Billy’s journey takes him out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class where he discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family and whole community and changes his life forever.

Acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, Billy Elliot: The Musical has now been seen by over 11 million people across five continents and is the recipient of over 80 awards internationally, including ten Tony Awards and five Olivier Awards. In 2006, Liam Mower, James Lomas and George Maguire, the first three boys to play the title role, became the youngest performers ever to have won the Olivier Award for Best Actor with the show also picking up the Best Musical prize.

In total, worldwide, ninety five boys have now played the iconic role of Billy Elliot on stage. September 2014 saw a record breaking twenty-five former and current Billy Elliots come together on stage in a specially choreographed mash-up finale for Billy Elliot: The Musical Live, a unique performance that was broadcast live around the world becoming the widest ever cinema release of a live event and hitting number one at the UK box office. In May 2015, Billy Elliot the Musical celebrated its 10th birthday at the West End’s Victoria Palace Theatre where it played its final performance on April 9 2016 after 4,600 performances when the theatre closed for refurbishment.

Billy Elliot: The Musical is brought to life by the multiple award-winning creative team behind the film including writer Lee Hall (book and lyrics), director Stephen Daldry, and choreographer, Peter Darling, joined by Elton John, who composed the show’s score. The production features scenic design by Ian MacNeil, the associate director is Julian Webber, costume design is by Nicky Gillibrand, lighting design by Rick Fisher and sound design by Paul Arditti. Musical supervision and orchestrations are by Martin Koch.

Productions of Billy Elliot: The Musical have previously been staged on Broadway and in Sydney, Melbourne, Chicago, Toronto and Seoul, South Korea. The highly successful North American touring production, which began in 2010, finished its spectacular run in August 2013 with an engagement in São Paulo, Brazil, the first time Billy Elliot played in South America. The first Japanese language production will open at the Akasaka ACT Theater in Tokyo this year, and further international productions are currently planned.

Billy Elliot: The Musical is presented by Universal Stage Productions, Working Title Films and Old Vic Productions and is based on the Universal Pictures/Studio Canal film. The show is produced by Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Jon Finn and Sally Greene. Angela Morrison and David Furnish are executive producers.

Billy Elliot: The Musical will be performed at the Liverpool Empire Theatre from Wednesday May 10 to Saturday May 27. To book your tickets, click here.

For more information about Billy Elliot: The Musical, click here.

Unity Youth Theatre performs a new play by Esther Wilson this Saturday in Unity’s Dark Dark Wood

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Unity Theatre

This Saturday, December 17 at 7.30pm & 8.30pm, Unity Youth Theatre will give a special Christmas performance - 'Once There Were Trees' - inspired by the setting of the Dark Dark Wood and written by the members themselves with award winning Liverpool playwright Esther Wilson ('Ten Tiny Toes', 'Tony Teardrop', 'Unprotected').

Esther Wilson is an award-winning Liverpool playwright and screenwriter. She has written for Bafta and Emmy award winning shows The Street and Accused. She has also won an RTS Award for best newcomer for The Street.

Unity Youth Theatre and their directors, Laura Campbell and Carl Cockram worked with Esther Wilson to bring together the following programme note:

“Britain is the loneliness capital of the world.

“Shockingly, it is a greater concern for young people than it is for the elderly. Loneliness is linked to stress, depression, anxiety, paranoia and addiction. The Internet and social media can be great at keeping us connected to the wider world but it can be detrimental when it replaces personal interaction.

“We are bombarded with information on how we should look, think, feel and experience the world. We often find ourselves lacking in comparison. Everyone seems to be out there having a great time…except ‘me’.

“Or we are faced with the notion that the world is a terrible place. Death, war, famine, climate change. We struggle with great waves of guilt and compassion while feeling inadequate at not being able to do anything to make the world a better place. We have invented all these wonderful systems - science, religion, technology - to help us understand what it is to be human. But they often overwhelm and control us. And stop us from accepting that there are many unknowns in the world…things that can’t be explained or put in a ‘box’. Young people look to the adult world for answers…but we simply don’t have them all. We don’t have many. In reality we are all curious children negotiating an unfamiliar path that can be both terrifying and exciting. Isn’t it our duty to enable those coming after us to trust in their own instincts and thoughts? To help them develop the courage to step into the unknown on their own terms? Original thinkers dare to question what the world accepts as fact. In order to move forward we have to learn and adapt.

“We are a creative species. Look around you. Most things you see have been thought into being. Whatever terrifying things happen around us the desire to celebrate life will still course through our veins. It is manifest in our singing, our dancing and our laughter. It’s the subversive two fingered salute to oppression, suffering and death. It comes from our young people. It is a glorious cause for celebration.

“This piece has been inspired by Dante’s inferno, The Bible, The Viz, Iceland, Carl Sagan, the Beatle’s White Wlbum, Prince, the Anglican Cathedral Gardens, Sting, Night of the Hunter, the 80’s music scene, Red Riding Hood, Absurdism and the courage of the original thinkers of Unity Youth Theatre.

“A collective endeavour involving Unity Youth Theatre, Laura Campbell, Carl Cockram and Esther Wilson.”

Working with Action Transport Theatre and Katie Scott, a designer from Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, the Dark Dark Wood draws on visual ideas from the Christmas show, Little Red and the Big Bad Wolf. The theatre is delighted to have received a grant from the PRS Foundation, which has made the series of events possible.

Tickets can be booked via Unity Theatre’s Box Office, by calling 0151 709 4988 or via www.unitytheatreliverpool.co.uk.

Unity Theatre Goes ‘Out Of Space’ For Spring 2017

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Unity Theatre

Unity Theatre has always had a reputation for sparking debate and challenging the norm. Whether it’s a searing show like Nina: A story about Me and Nina Simone, a festival performance at Homotopia, DadaFest or Physical Fest or the long standing and ever-popular Christmas show with Action Transport Theatre, Unity always programmes work which thinks outside of the box.

In Spring 2017, as Unity Theatre undergoes a £790,000 capital redevelopment, the theatre itself will go outside of its own box, and announces a season that reaches out of the theatre and into the community, with a selection of bold and reactive shows.

Matthew Linley, Artistic Director and CEO at Unity, explained: “We’re delighted to be presenting a season of shows across several venues in the Merseyside area between January and April next year. While our own theatre undergoes a transformation, we want to take the opportunity to use some of the fantastic venues around the city, new and old, conventional and unconventional. We will then reopen in May 2017 with a our summer season, and we can’t wait to show off our new spaces.”

The ‘Out of Space’ season will draw on Unity Theatre’s aims to collaborate and encourage new and burgeoning talent, engage families and individuals from economically disadvantaged areas, tackle current issues and say the important things that would otherwise go unsaid.

Highlights include Narvik (February 27–March 3), a show that cements Unity’s relationship with Bluecoat. Written by Lizzie Nunnery, this critically-acclaimed show crosses generations and cultures in a powerful story of love and war.

Cathy (February 11) by Cardboard Citizens, which will take place in Liverpool Cathedral’s Lady Chapel, has been programmed in response to the current homelessness crisis in Liverpool. The show aims to raise awareness and encourage audience members to make a donation to this cause instead of buying a ticket.

David Morrissey, Actor and Unity Theatre Patron, commented: “Cardboard Citizens do fantastic work for excluded people, and have done for the past 25 years. I'm really pleased that Unity Theatre are able to bring the astounding show Cathy to Liverpool, which has suffered a rise in homeless people over the last few years.

In addition to a suggested donation to the local foodbank, Hope+, Unity will also be collecting for Shelter, the housing and homeless charity. The charity was established 50 years ago in response to public calls for action following the release of the original TV play, Cathy Come Home. Even after 50 years Ken Loach's story is still very relevant today so please give generously!”

Unity Theatre is delighted to be collaborating with MDI (Merseyside Dance Initiative) to create a pop-up dance house for the flagship dance festival, LEAP 2017. From March 1-12, LEAP 2017 will be taking over the city centre’s latest venue, Make Liverpool, to offer a bold and ambitious programme of dance with performers from across the region and UK, joining together to celebrate the festival’s 25th anniversary.

Unity will also be providing the box office for the festival and presenting Hetain Patel’s show, American Man. One of Unity Theatre’s core values is to support radical festivals of new work.

Read on for a roundup of all the events in the ‘Out of Space’ season:

Saturday Splatterdays

Venue: Various

Unity’s workshops for 5-13 year olds will be making their way around Merseyside and further afield. All sessions will be free, in the following venues:

Saturday January 21 2017 Toxteth Library
Saturday February 4 2017 Spellow Lane Library
Friday February 17 2017 (Half Term) The Atkinson, Southport
Saturday February 18 2017 Norris Green Library
Saturday March 4 2017 Toxteth Library
Saturday March 18 2017 Spellow Lane Library
Saturday April 8 2017 Norris Green Library
Saturday April 22 2017 Toxteth Library

Tickets will be on sale from December 13 via Unity’s website.

Night Light by Mandala Theatre

Wednesday January 25, 7.30pm

Venue: Capstone Theatre, Liverpool Hope Uni Creative Campus

Somewhere in England two teenagers seeking asylum, fearing deportation, hide out in an abandoned factory. As the long cold night unfolds, they imagine their future and tell each other about their past. In the midst of sharing food and stories, they hear someone else arrive. Terrified, they creep towards the door where they find a familiar figure. The three of them talk through the night about home, belonging and the system...But the children remain wary: at any point he can reveal their hiding place, turn them over to the authorities and send them back to their countries and to danger.

View the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJ-Tz7VqmP8

On sale now via Ticket Quarter: https://www.ticketquarter.co.uk/Online/night-light

Cardboard Citizens presents Cathy

Saturday February 11, 7.30pm

Venue: Liverpool Anglican Cathedral Lady Chapel

Settled …. Until suddenly you’re not…

Acclaimed Theatre Company Cardboard Citizens presents this powerful and emotive Forum Theatre show, exploring resonances in today’s society with the story told in the ground-breaking Ken Loach film, Cathy Come Home, 50 years ago.

Candid, poignant and intimate, this four star hit new play (The Stage, The Upcoming & The Reviews Hub) by award winning playwright Ali Taylor (Cotton Wool, OVERSPILL, Fault Lines) offers a timely reflection on the social and personal impact of spiralling housing costs, gentrification and the challenges of the forced relocation away from London.

This is a free event, tickets can be reserved at Unity’s box office and there is a suggested donation to the local food bank, Hope+. Unity Theatre will also be collecting donations for Shelter at the show.

Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IoSgUIgfJA

Tickets will be on sale from December 13 via Unity’s website.

5 More Minutes by Travelled Companions

Friday February 17 2017, 11.30am & 2.30pm

Venue: The Atkinson, Southport

When Moon and Stars are shining in your eyes
Then I will sing to you a lullaby
The day is over now it’s time for bed…
But with five more minutes we can play instead?

5 More Minutes is a funny and magical show about bedtime for children and their grown ups, in which we’ll explore the fun, frustration and fantasy that can be had in that magical time between awake & asleep. Real world play will blur with the magic of dreams as we all try to settle down and finally get ready to say goodnight, and go to sleep… unless that is, we can have 5 more minutes!?

5 More Minutes is an interactive family show with a playful performance style, live music and puppetry. In a child’s imagination, five more minutes can last forever! (But this play has a running time of approx. 50 minutes.) Bring along your bedtime snuggly. Suitable for children aged under 6 and their families.

View the trailer here: https://vimeo.com/170939290

Tickets are available here: http://www.theatkinson.co.uk/events/5-more-minutes/

Box Of Tricks Theatre presents Narvik

Monday February 27–Friday March 3, 7.30pm

Venue: Bluecoat

Following an acclaimed run at the Liverpool Playhouse Studio, Narvik embarks on a national tour as part of Box of Tricks’ tenth anniversary season. Lizzie Nunnery is an award-winning playwright ('Intemperance' at Everyman Liverpool and 'The Swallowing Dark' at Liverpool Playhouse Studio and Theatre503) and celebrated singer/songwriter.

Inspired by tales of Naval veterans, Narvik tells the story of a Liverpudlian man and a Norwegian woman pulled together and torn apart by war as the events of one summer cause ripples across an ocean of time. Fusing live folk music and new writing to create a patchwork of memory and dream, Narvik is a bold new play set during the Second World War that brings to life a powerful story of love, guilt, heroism and betrayal.

Watch the trailer here: https://vimeo.com/135671559

Tickets will be on sale from December 13 via Unity’s website.

American Man by Hetain Patel (LEAP 2017)

Thursday March 9, 7.30pm

Venue: Make Liverpool

Award-winning dancer and choreographer, Hetain Patel, is just one of the national and internationally renowned artists to be joining the LEAP 2017 festival line-up to examine the theme of camouflage - the seen and unseen stories of humanity, so we are thrilled to bring you his new production, American Man.

American Man is a new one-man show, which builds on the critically acclaimed American Boy. Playing provocatively with race, gender and identity, American Man imagines a not-too-distant-future where celebrity power and political correctness have reached new heights. A future where Barack Obama’s post-Presidential role is CEO of Apple, and Stephen Hawking voices Disney characters.

Combining seamless vocal and physical impersonations with his characteristic wit and humour, Hetain Patel presents a dystopian outlook on a world where personal freedom walks hand in hand with guilt.

Hetain spent a period of time in research and development at Unity in January 2016 and the theatre are delighted to bring him back to Liverpool as part of LEAP 2017.

Tickets will be on sale from December 14 via Unity’s website.

Gaudete

Friday March 17-Saturday March 18, 7.30pm

Venue: Make Liverpool

Gaudete is a thrilling stage adaptation of Ted Hughes’ poetic novel by OBRA Theatre Company performed by an international ensemble of eight performers. Seven years in the making, this extraordinary piece takes Hughes’ words as a starting point to create a magical and surreal piece of physical theatre. The story follows Nicholas Lumb, an Anglican Minister from the North of England who is abducted by spirits, duplicated and returned to the world a changed man.

Watch the trailer here: https://vimeo.com/71505670

Tickets will be on sale from December 13 via Unity’s website.

Research and Development at Unity

Theatre companies will continue to develop work with support from Unity and will be using the rehearsal room next to Unity Theatre’s temporary offices on Hanover Street.

Scratch Nights

Unity will continue to encourage new writing as the regular Scratch Nights are set to continue in venues outside of Unity Theatre, the first one to be confirmed is at Make Liverpool on March 14 2017. More information and an application form will be available in the next few weeks at http://www.unitytheatreliverpool.co.uk/opportunities.html.

Patrick Dineen performs in Unity Theatre’s Dark Dark Wood

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Unity Theatre

Patrick Dineen, composer for Christmas Show, Little Red and the Big Bad Wolf, performs in Unity Theatre’s Dark Dark Wood

Regular Unity Theatre and Action Transport Theatre Christmas show collaborator, composer Patrick Dineen will use the setting of Dark Dark Wood to continue his own exploration of music inspired by dark fairy tales on Thursday December 15 at 8pm.

Patrick Dineen is a composer, lyricist and orchestrator. He began in music began by touring and recording with his own band Kan Kan and then ran a tango nightclub in London’s West End while writing songs and music for fringe theatres. His work led him to becoming a freelance composer for theatre, TV radio, and film and subsequently being invited to study with Stephen Sondheim in his Master Classes in Music Theatre at Oxford University. Since then he has written many scores, for theatre, ballet, TV, radio, independent film as well as large-scale site-specific projects.

Patrick said: "I'm excited to be writing and developing music which thematically links to the music I’m writing for Little Red, I've always been fascinated by the darker side of fairy tales, and this project has allowed me to go deeper and further into the imagination.”

Working with Action Transport Theatre and Katie Scott, a designer from Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, the Dark Dark Wood draws on visual ideas from the Christmas show, Little Red and the Big Bad Wolf. The theatre is delighted to have received a grant from the PRS Foundation, which has made the series of events possible.

Tickets can be booked via Unity Theatre’s Box Office, by calling 0151 709 4988 or via www.unitytheatreliverpool.co.uk.

The Rise and Fall of The Hamburger Queen - A Preview

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Through comedic characterisations, dazzling dance routines, and a show-stopping voice (obviously, she can do it all) taking you on a journey through her life: from rags to riches, from Liverpool to London, from Nabzys to Nandos, Ashleigh Owen announces The Rise and Fall of The Hamburger Queen, a brand new one-woman comedy show which makes its debut at The Unity Theatre as part of Homotopia Festival from Thursday November 3-5. You are invited to join her, so bring along your funny bones, your dancing shoes ... and your inhalers.

The Rise and Fall of The Hamburger Queen is a story that may seem like it treads a familiar path. A one-woman show, a performer struggling to make it in the harsh world of showbiz, life lessons, colourful characters, and the most graphic musical number about childbirth you’re likely to find anywhere.

Building on the success of last year’s Scratch and See performance, Homotopia Festival are now bringing you the full shebang. The brainchild of Ashleigh Owen and Paul Burke, the show tells Ashleigh’s real-life journey in trying to make it as a performer and the struggles along the way (the term ‘real-life’ is one to be taken with a huge pinch of salt!).

Ashleigh has expanded upon her solo award-winning cabaret piece “A Fat Girl's History of Dance”, which won her the crown at Scottee & Amy Lamés' acclaimed talent competition/beauty pageant for plus size people: “Hamburger Queen”.

It’s a one-woman show unlike any other. It's a one-woman parody, with original musical numbers, outlandish characters, several dance routines, a killer script, and did we mention the childbirth bit!? (Sorry Mum).

This show explores being an outsider; building on the experiences and the challenges competing for work in commercial theatre brings through their obsession with size, age and ‘beauty’.

But don’t worry too much about the serious stuff, you'll be laughing and tapping your feet too much to notice. You might even learn something..... About yourself!

Ashleigh’s professional performances have included Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the International Shakespeare Festival in Gdansk, Poland. In 2011, Ashleigh set up her own theatre company 'Catfish Theatre' with a fellow graduate from her University (London Met). Their first production was an adaptation of Eugene Ionescco’s The Bald Prima Donna. Ashleigh played Mrs Smith, which was a lead role, and also directed the show. It was well-received with over nine performances, including the Cockpit Theatre in London. This was followed by a Liverpool performance at the Lantern Theatre. Ashleigh looked to expand upon her solo comedy and cabaret work and applied to the much-lauded Hamburger Queen Competition, which was a highlight of London’s alternative live art and cabaret scene. Ashleigh went on to win the competition: £600 prize money, and a slot to perform the winning piece at Bestival. Since 2013, Ashleigh has been collaborating with writer Paul Burke on creating a one-woman show inspired by Ashleigh’s real-life experiences of leaving Liverpool to become a performer in London and the turbulent world of auditions. The ups and downs became a quasi-autobiographical, comedy cabaret show featuring dance, physical theatre and themes that Ashleigh identifies with.

The Rise and Fall of The Hamburger Queen runs in the Unity Theatre until Saturday November 5. For ticket information, click here.

You can learn more about Ashleigh Owen by clicking here.

Scouse: A Comedy Of Terrors returns to the stage after almost 20 years since its first run in Liverpool

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Bill Elms Productions

A Scouse comedy show which first took to the stage in Liverpool almost 20 years ago is set to return for Christmas 2016.

Scouse: A Comedy Of Terrors will run for four weeks this festive season at The Dome at Grand Central, and is being brought back to entertain audiences by Lantern Theatre Productions.

The show opens on Thursday November 17 and runs through to Thursday December 15, offering the perfect choice as an alternative show this Christmas.

Keen theatregoers will remember the comedy first time round when it was first performed at the Everyman Theatre in 1997. Its original cast list read like a who’s who of the city’s thriving acting and creative talent and the line-up featured Paul Broughton, Andrew Schofield and Vince Pellegrino.

The cast consists of native Liverpool based actors and the supporting crew all have links to the city. The play features 30 characters played by just 10 actors.

The cast for 2016 features Peter Washington as Tom; Jackie Jones as Kath; Katie King as Susan; James Ledsham as Ben; Curtis Watt as Clive; Reg Edwards as Macka; James McMartin (who played Macka in the original in 1997) as Big Frank; Nicola Ferguson as Lisa; Louise Garcia as Tracey and Michael Hawkins as Darren.

The play is directed by Margaret Connell and the creative team is headed by Jocelyn Meall as set designer.

Lantern Theatre Productions was created following the closure of the city’s Lantern Theatre in July 2016 after the site was sold to developers. In the five years it was open, the Lantern Theatre developed into a genuine fringe venue that supported new writing and emerging artists both locally and nationally. Four plays from its writers group – which were developed through its regular scratch nights – will be staged at Liverpool’s Unity Theatre this Autumn.

The production company was formed by family trio Margaret Connell, son Daniel Noble and daughter Siobhan Noble, who felt the next natural step for them after the theatre’s closure was to concentrate their efforts in the area of theatre they love the most, the production side.

Margaret Connell, director and producer, commented: “When we were first looking for our next project the whole Brexit debate was ongoing and after the vote it was clear Liverpool once again disagreed with the UK as a whole. We just felt considering the current political climate this play is as relevant now as it was 20 years ago.

“Theatregoers will most definitely remember Scouse: A Comedy Of Terrors. It was one of the very first strong Liverpool theatre comedy productions, which went on to pave the way and inspire the many of the excellent shows we see today at the vast choice of theatres our city is proud to play home to.

“When Scouse premiered at the Everyman Theatre almost 20 years ago, it was a sensational success with audiences and critics alike, with all performances selling out. We feel now is the right time to bring the play back and introduce it to new audiences and welcome back the show’s old friends.

“With such a fantastic script and cast, we have an impressive array of visual, sound and movement creative team, which means Scouse is set to become one of the most exciting, funny and emotional pieces of immersive theatre the city has seen.”

Scouse: A Comedy Of Terrors tells the story of the Liverpool People’s Party and its calls for Liverpool to be recognised as an independent republic by the UN, the EU, NATO and UEFA. But the UK Government objects and sends in the army. The play follows Tom, Kath and their children Susan and Ben through the bid for independence and the battle and tragedy that follows.

"The people of Liverpool, and the Liverpool People’s Party, invite the Prime Minister to mind his own business. Here in Liverpool, we’re nearer to space than we are to London. London is 200 miles away; space is only 100 miles away. People here pay as much heed to the Prime Minister as we do to the man in the moon."

Scouse: A Comedy Of Terrors was written by Andrew Cullen, who has since gone on to critical acclaim for his writing talent. His short story, The Six Day War, won the London Writers Award, while his article on Anglo-Japanese relations won the Japan Prize.

Cullen’s credits also include the play Self Catering (A Short History of the World), which won several awards and was filmed by Channel 4 and published by Josef Weinburger plays; Pig’s Ear, a tale of family life during four general elections, won the Peggy Ramsay Award; his first non-fiction book was From Here To Paternity. He has also screenplays for film and television. Andrew Cullen now lives in London with his family.

For more information, visit www.lanterntheatreliverpool.co.uk.

Antony Costa: "I'll always cherish performing"

Image Source: Liverpool
Empire Theatre

Written By: Mark Armstrong

When you think of Antony Costa, you may think immediately of Blue, one of the most British popular boy bands of the early 21st century. But he has also established himself a successful career in theatre, having performed in such shows as Blood Brother and Boogie Nights, and he's back on stage for Save The Last Dance For Me, which comes to the Liverpool Empire Theatre next month. We spoke to Antony about his current theatre tour, as well as key events for him in music and television.

First of all, tell us about the upcoming show Save The Last Dance For Me.

Save The Last Dance is a 60s jukebox musical with a love story. There are some fantastic songs, written by two songwriters called Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman; they wrote songs like A Teenager In Love, Viva Las Vegas and the iconic song Save The Last Dance For Me. It's a lovely musical that's very uplifting with a great love story.

Describe your Milton character in the show.

Milton is very much a ladies' man, a bit of a wheeler and dealer. He's an American Air Force guy; wherever he was based, the first thing he would do is to go out and try to meet girls and have a party etc. That's what he does! Also, Milton introduces Marie (played by Elizabeth Carter) to Curtis (played by Wayne Robinson), whose character is my best friend, and from there Marie and Curtis fall in love, and it's about their journey - do they or don't they?

Are there any differences from a performer standpoint between playing for a theatre audience and playing for a pop audience?

I think the theatre audience are there to see the show, which is great because you're part of an amazing show, whereas if a pop audience have paid to see, say, Blue, then they're specifically paid to see you if you know what I mean. But I think that's the only difference between the audiences really. Both are fantastic, by the way; I love performing, and I'll always cherish any sort of performing that I can do. So, it just depends on what you're doing really. I know that every audience that we've had for this show so far this year have been different, and they've all been great.

You rose to fame as a member of Blue with Simon Webbe, Duncan James and Lee Ryan. How did the group originally form, and when did you feel that Blue had truly made it?

Well, we formed in the year 2000, we had all become friends through auditions and different situations like that, so really we just became mates and from there Blue formed. Then, in 2001, we released All Rise, and it all happened from there for us.

How did you find the experience of participating in I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here in 2005?

It was amazing. A really, really good experience. It's an experience that I'll never forget and that I'll always cherish. It was hard, I'm not gonna lie, but it was really enjoyable!

Tell us about how Blue reformed in 2011 prior to competing in the Eurovision Song Contest.

It was brilliant to get the group back together. You know, to represent your country, in any field I suppose. It's fantastic to be able to represent the country in something that we love doing, which for us is singing. We really enjoyed the experience. It was hard work, but enjoyable.

Finally, what can the Liverpool audience expect from Save The Last Dance For Me?

What they can expect is an uplifting show with great music. We want them up dancing from the start singing along, having fun, leaving their troubles outside and going home with a smile on their faces.

Save The Last Dance For Me plays the Liverpool Empire from Monday June 6 to Saturday June 11. To book your tickets, click here.

For more information about Save The Last Dance For Me, click here.

Full casting announced for Save The Last Dance For Me

Image Source: Liverpool
Empire Theatre

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

Final casting has been announced for the UK tour of Save The Last Dance For Me. Lola Saunders, a finalist on The X Factor 2014, will make her theatrical debut in the role of Jennifer starring alongside previously announced Antony Costa as Milton, with Wayne Robinson as Curtis and Elizabeth Carter returning to the role of Marie.

From the writers, producers, creators and director of the huge success Dreamboats and Petticoats, Save the Last Dance for Me will take you back through the 'music and magic' of the early 60's, a time when each passing week brought another Rock'n'Roll classic. The production will play the Liverpool Empire from June 6-11.

Written by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran (of ‘Goodnight Sweetheart’, ‘Birds of a Feather’ and ‘The New Statesman’) the show features the unmistakable music of Doc Pomus & Mort Shuman, authentically recreating the Rock 'n' Roll sound live on stage with hits including Sweets for my Sweet, Please Mr. Postman, Viva Las Vegas, Can’t Get Used to Losing You, the title track Save the Last Dance For Me and more. This nostalgic, feel-good journey will transport you back to music's golden era.

Save the Last Dance for Me follows two teenage sisters through the summer of '63 as they embark, for the first time without their parents, on a holiday to the seaside. Full of freedom and high spirits they meet a handsome young American who invites them to a dance at the local U.S. Air force base... But young love and holiday romance is never as simple as it sounds, and the sisters soon realise that while the world around them is still watching itself in black and white, life and love can be much more colourful.

Lola Saunders (Jennifer) came to the public’s attention on The X Factor in 2014, becoming the UK’s most famous fishmonger almost overnight! Originally from East Boldon in South Tyneside, Lola wowed the judges with her powerful voice and soulful tone taking her as far as the judges’ houses before being sent home - only to return for the live shows as Cheryl Fernandez-Versini’s wildcard. Most recently Lola has been headlining concerts around the UK and writing and recording new music. Save the Last Dance for Me is her theatrical debut.

Elizabeth Carter (Marie) played Marie in the 2013 UK tour of Bill Kenwright's Save the Last Dance for Me. Her theatre credits include Dreamboats and Petticoats (UK tour 2012 for Bill Kenwright Ltd) and the original cast of Dreamboats and Miniskirts (UK tour 2014/15 for Bill Kenwright Ltd). Elizabeth also appeared in The Wizard of Oz (Popular Productions) and Peter Pan (Evolution Productions).
Wayne Robinson (Curtis) most recently appeared in Kiss Me, Kate (Opera North / National Tour), Thriller (West End/International tour) and In The Heights (Southwark Playhouse). Wayne’s many other theatre credits include Stephen Ward (West End), We Will Rock You (West End) and The Wiz (Birmingham Rep/West Yorkshire Playhouse).

Previously announced, Antony Costa (Milton) has previously appeared on stage in Blood Brothers (West End) and Boogie Nights (UK Tour). He is best known as one of the members of Blue, one of the biggest British boy bands of the Noughties, who enjoyed chart success with three number one albums and 11 Top Ten singles including their debut song All Rise. Blue, which also included Simon Webbe, Lee Ryan and Duncan James, disbanded in 2004 but then reunited in 2011 and that year they represented the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest. This year they released their fifth studio album Colours before embarking on a UK tour.

The cast also includes Sackie Osakonor, Rachel Nottingham, Kieran Kuypers, Joe McCourt, Andrew Joseph, Michael Kantola, Chris Coxon, Sheridan Lloyd, Josef Pitura-Riley, Alan Howell, Anna Campkin and Kate Hardistry.

The director is Bill Kenwright; the designer is Mark Bailey; the sound designer is Dan Samson; the lighting designer is Tim Oliver; the musical supervisor is Tom de Keyser; and the choreographer is Bill Deamer.

To book tickets, visit http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/save-the-last-dance-for-me/liverpool-empire/.

A lorra lorra laughs in store at Cilla tribute show next month

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Epstein Theatre

The countdown is on with one month to go before a show dedicated to the nation’s favourite redhead comes to the Epstein Theatre.

Celebrating Cilla is a show which will share the musical memories of Liverpool’s first lady of entertainment, the one and only Cilla Black OBE.

The show has been touring the UK and will come to The Epstein Theatre on Hanover Street on Thursday June 2.

Celebrating Cilla recreates the sounds of the sixties and is fronted by the incorrigible Brenda Collins, a highly talented performer from County Durham who will pay tribute to Cilla, a national treasure and one of the UK’s best-loved performers of all time.

Not only is Brenda an amazing Cilla lookalike, but she has a truly zany character and like Cilla, she has a personality which oozes fun and laughter and wins the hearts of everyone she meets.

A superb comedy vocalist, Brenda’s show is punctuated with many Cilla favourites from Anyone Who Had a Heart to Step Inside Love.

Brenda will be accompanied by a trio of wonderfully multi-talented musicians plus Liverpool lad Tony Blaney to add an unmistakable Scouse flavour to the mix.

Spiced with humour, the show features memories of Cilla, Liverpool and Merseyside, and is guaranteed to put a smile on your face, giving you, in Cilla’s own words “a lorra lorra laughs.”

Rebekah Pichilingi, theatre manager, commented: “Cilla Black was a national treasure who put the swing into the sixties.

“Brenda has an uncanny capability of recreating Cilla’s unforgettable voice and pays a fitting tribute to the Liverpool icon who shaped popular music and entertainment.

“We can’t wait to welcome her to The Epstein and are sure the audience will take her to their hearts, just as they did with Cilla.”

So come and celebrate magical memories of Cilla – you may even want to “buy a new hat!”

To book tickets, visit http://www.epsteinliverpool.co.uk/whats-on/celebrating-cilla.aspx.

All-star cast prepare to bare all in The Full Monty

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

The 2016/17 UK Tour of Simon Beaufoy’s The Full Monty, which scooped the UK Theatre Award for Best Touring Production, will embark on a second leg this autumn, playing the Liverpool Empire from November 7-12 2016.

The cast will be led by Gary Lucy (Danny Pennant in EastEnders, DS Will Fletcher in The Bill, Kyle Pascoe in Footballer’s Wives, Luke Morgan in Hollyoaks, winner of Dancing on Ice) as Gaz, along with Joe Absolom (Matthew Rose in EastEnders and Al Large in Doc Martin) as Lomper, Andrew Dunn (best known as Tony in Dinnerladies and for his regular appearances playing Alastair Campbell on Bremner, Bird and Fortune) as Gerald, Louis Emerick (Mick Johnson in Brookside and PC Walsh in Last of the Summer Wine) as Horse, Chris Fountain (best known for his roles as Justin Burton in Hollyoaks and Tommy Duckworth in Coronation Street, runner-up of Dancing on Ice) as Guy and Kai Owen (best known for his portrayal of Rhys in Torchwood and recently played Pete in Hollyoaks) as Dave.

In 1997, a British film about six out-of-work Sheffield steelworkers with nothing to lose took the world by storm, becoming one of the most successful British films ever made. The story still resonates today, probably more so now than ever.

Simon Beaufoy, the Oscar- and BAFTA-winning writer of the film, has adapted his own screenplay for this hilarious and heartfelt stage production, which features the iconic songs from the film by Donna Summer, Hot Chocolate and Tom Jones.

The Full Monty is Simon Beaufoy’s first work for the theatre. His screen credits include The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, Salmon Fishing in Yemen, 127 Hours and Slumdog Millionaire, as well as The Full Monty movie.

The UK Tour is directed by Jack Ryder. His directing credits include national tours of Calendar Girls and the short film Act of Memory with Claire Skinner, Owen Teale and Anna Massey, which was officially selected for nine international festivals around the world including the Cannes Film Festival.  As an actor, Jack is probably best known as Jamie Mitchell in EastEnders, a role he played for four years. The design is by Robert Jones, choreography by Ian West, lighting by Tim Lutkin and sound by Sarah Weltman, with casting by Marc Frankum.

The 2016/17 UK Tour of Simon Beaufoy’s The Full Monty, based on the Fox Searchlight Pictures motion picture, is presented by David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers and is a Sheffield Theatres production.

For more information, visit www.fullmontytheplay.com.

To book tickets, visit http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-full-monty/liverpool-empire/.

Catherine Tate revives hilarious characters for live UK tour at the Empire in November

Image Source:
The Catherine Tate Show - Live

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

The critically-acclaimed, award-winning comedian and actor Catherine Tate will take 'The Catherine Tate Show - Live' across the country this autumn, with a 21-date UK tour starting on November 1.

The Catherine Tate Show – Live is at the Liverpool Empire on November 22 2016; tickets are now on sale for what promises to be a brilliant night of comedy.

In sketches that have never been seen before, the tour will unite some of Catherine's best-known characters from her hugely successful BBC series 'The Catherine Tate Show'. The cast will include 'Nan' Taylor; Irish nurse Bernie; Geordie Georgie; Essex girl Sam; and the return of a certain argumentative teenager ...

Nan said: "She's going on tour, is she? What a load of old s**t."

To book tickets, visit http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-catherine-tate-show-live/liverpool-empire/.

Talented trio unite for an evening of musical magic at Epstein Theatre

Image Source: Epstein Theatre

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Epstein Theatre

Three of Britain’s finest musicians and interpreters of songs and tunes will come together for an evening of magical music at The Epstein Theatre on Wednesday June 8 2016.

Martin Simpson, Andy Cutting and Nancy Kerr will unite for the joy of playing and exploring the possibilities of music together.

Each musician an acknowledged virtuoso in their own right, the talented trio have appeared together on stages in various combinations during recent years and have enjoyed it so much, they are coming back for more.

Nancy Kerr has been a major part of the acoustic music scene since she was a teenager and has always been a distinctive and impressive talent, turning heads everywhere she’s played or sung.

She is currently part of an award-winning duo with her husband, James Fagan, and is also one quarter of the Melrose Quartet and a key member of the Full English Band, both nominated for BBC Radio 2 Folks Awards in 2014.

Nancy has previously been nominated for the BBC radio 2 Folk Award for Best Original Song, acknowledging her superb song-writing skills. She is a multi-instrumentalist of rare and astonishing talent, as well as a beautiful and joyful singer. She is one of the shining stars in the British music firmament and is going from strength to strength with every new challenge she takes on.

Andy Cutting is an extraordinary musician. A master of the diatonic accordion and most other squeezeboxes, he is a superbly sensitive accompanist, a writer of beautiful and thrilling tunes, a highly in-demand band member and a sublime solo performer.

His list of recording credits and sessions reads like a Who’s Who of acoustic music both in the UK and abroad and he has played live with The Who, Roger Daltry and Sting, amongst others. His work in a duo with Chris Wood and as a member of the mighty Blowzabella, helped popularise French-Canadian and European music. Andy has toured extensively in the past with Martin Simpson, who always says that playing music with Andy Cutting is his favourite thing to do.

Martin Simpson is a multi-award winning musician, singer and songwriter who has worked with Bonnie Raitt, Richard Hawley and many more, as well as being a world-renowned performer in his own right. He was a notable virtuoso in his early teens and his partnership with June Tabor in the 70s and 80s brought him to the attention of a much wider audience and led to him being courted by the world of rock and roll, which he side-stepped.

Twenty years living in the UK and he has gone from strength to strength. He has often said that playing music with the likes of Andy and Nancy makes him a better player and in this trio he will mainly be playing guitars and banjos, singing and grinning from ear to ear.

The trio’s debut album Murmurs, which is currently available to purchase, was released on Topic Records on June 8 2015 to critical acclaim.

To book tickets, visit http://www.epsteinliverpool.co.uk/whats-on/martin-simpson-andy-cutting-and-nancy-kerr.aspx.

Flavia Cacace: Last Tango a show for everyone to enjoy

Image Source: Burton Mail

Written By: Mark Armstrong

With more than 20 years of professional dancing experience, Flavia Cacace and Vincent Simone have become one of the most notable dancing couples, having starred in several theatre shows and Strictly Come Dancing for seven years beforehand. And their latest show Last Tango is about to foxtrot its way into the Liverpool Empire Theatre. To learn more about the show and their careers, we recently spoke to Flavia Cacace, who promises an eye-catching and emotional performance for the Liverpool audience.

Tell us about the Last Tango tour.

We're on the road at the moment, we're touring the UK, and Last Tango is our first big production. It's quite an emotional show, and all of our shows have a story to follow, so we take you on a journey with us. It’s the story of a man called George, who acts almost as an older Vincent (Simone). So basically we take you through his life, from the very first time he met his partner to all the things that happen in his life, all the way to the very end. There are ups and downs that I think people will relate to.

We've got a cast of eight other musical theatre dancers and singers who are amazing, and we have a main voice in Teddy Kempner who tells George’s story; he's been in all three of our productions. We also have an eight-piece orchestra who are incredible. And there are lots of different styles of dancing; we go from jive to foxtrot to Argentine tango, the salsa, the flamenco … there's a little bit of everything in there as well. So, there's a lot to see, accompanied by some fabulous music.

When did you and Vincent first begin dancing together?

We've danced together now for around 21 years, so it’s been a long time! We were 16 and 17 years old when we partnered up to compete.

When did you both first achieve fame for your dancing?

Well, we were very well-known in what we call the ballroom world. We started competing at a very young age, as we felt we could do very well, so we were already a bit well-known and we were very successful in our own right. Then once we got into television, obviously that’s when we became much more well-known in people's homes. Later on, a lot of other opportunities came along, and now we're touring the UK with our own show.

How were you discovered for Strictly Come Dancing?

We were studying the Argentine tango at a studio in Kensington (in London). The studio had a call from the BBC, who were producing Dance Fever at the time (Graham Norton was the presenter). They were looking for a tango couple to perform with one of the live music acts, so the people that spoke to them put our names forward and we met up with the BBC. We sent them a tape of us dancing, and in the end, we did several performances for Dance Fever over the course of four years with various different music acts.

And then one year, the last year that we did Dance Fever, the BBC producer came to us (she had recently become their new producer), and she told us that she was producing Strictly Come Dancing that year and asked us whether we would like to take part. We'd achieved pretty much everything that we'd wanted to in the world of competitive dancing, so we were ready to move on, and so that's how we got involved in Strictly.

Did you both enjoy Strictly during your time on the show (2006-2012)?

It was an amazing experience. It’s a fantastic show which is watched by millions, and we were very lucky and privileged to be a part of it, and to have been there when it was growing and becoming bigger and more popular. We have lots of great memories from those seven years on Strictly.

What has been your favourite routine to perform together?

Oh, gosh! It would be absolutely impossible to pick. We're often asked what our favourite dance is, and what routine is our favourite. We've been so lucky to be able to dance to so many amazing songs. When we were younger, we had a wish list of songs that we used to listen to, so for example we would practice choreographing to them. And now obviously with our shows, and the performances that we've done, we've been able to make that a reality. So, there are so many different numbers that we love in the show and in the past shows that it would be impossible to pick.

I think our favourite dance, or at least mine, is the Argentine tango. I love the tango music. Obviously, I love them all as I've done them for many, many years, but I think the tango has a special place for me.

What should the audience expect from Last Tango?

It's an emotional show, so come prepared! We've had many people who were a bit teary-eyed at the end of the show and during the show. It’s not just a show for dance fanatics, because there’s the main story to follow, we've got a beautiful set designed by Morgan Large who designed all of our other sets as well (for Dance ‘Til Dawn and Midnight Tango), and we've got amazing music (and it's a real variety of music). So, there's something for everybody; you don't have to be a pure dance fanatic to come and enjoy the show. And obviously we're in it; we've got an amazing cast, and we're thrilled at the fantastic response we're having on tour. We're really happy that people have enjoyed all three of our shows, because that's why we do them. So, we hope to see lots of people in Liverpool, as it's a great city and we're looking forward to coming again.

Last Tango plays the Liverpool Empire Theatre from Monday April 4 to Wednesday April 6. To book your tickets, click here.

For more information about Last Tango, visit www.thelasttangotour.co.uk.

Jodie Prenger stars in Tell Me On A Sunday at the Empire

Image Source: Tell Me On A Sunday

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

Jamie Wilson and Gavin Kalin Productions are delighted to present the Watermill Theatre production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Don Black’s classic musical Tell Me On A Sunday starring Jodie Prenger at the Liverpool Empire Theatre on Monday May 23 2016. Tickets are now available!

Tell Me On A Sunday charts the romantic misadventures of a young English girl in New York in the heady days of the 1980’s. Brimming with optimism, she seeks success and love. But as she weaves her way through the maze of the city and her own anxieties, frustrations and heartaches she begins to wonder whether she's been looking for love in all the wrong places. This iconic musical, with a wonderful original score, features the chart-topping Take That Look Off Your Face and the title track Tell Me on A Sunday.

Jodie Prenger is probably best known for winning the role of ‘Nancy’ in Cameron Mackintosh’s West End production of “Oliver!” through the BBC television series “I’d Do Anything”. During her run in the show at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane she received both critical and public acclaim for her portrayal of the role. Most recently Jodie wowed audiences playing the title role in the national tour of the musical “Calamity Jane”. She has also starred in the National Theatre’s hit production of “One Man, Two Guvnors” both in the West End and on tour and as ‘Lady of the Lake’ in “Spamalot”. Jodie is also a regular presenter on BBC Radio 2.

Originally conceived for television, Tell Me On A Sunday has been performed by many legendary musical theatre stars including Marti Webb and Sarah Brightman. This new production for 2016 will include an intimate chat with Jodie about life, love and playing the role of Emma.

Andrew Lloyd Webber is the composer of some of the world’s best known musicals including Cats, Evita, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Phantom of the Opera and Sunset Boulevard. He is currently working on a stage version of the movie School of Rock which will begin previews on Broadway in November this year. He is the recipient of many awards including seven Tonys, seven Oliviers, a Golden Globe, an Oscar, two International Emmys and the Richard Rodgers Award for Excellence in Musical Theatre. Don Black is an Oscar winning lyrist for Born Free and has penned numerous James Bond theme tunes, and chart hits including Michael Jackson’s Ben and Lulu’s ‘To Sir With Love.’

Tell Me On A Sunday is directed by Paul Foster with musical supervision by Catherine Jayes. It is designed by David Woodhead with lighting design by Howard Hudson and sound design by Tom Marshall. The movement director is Matt Flint.

To book tickets, visit http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/tell-me-on-a-sunday/liverpool-empire/.

Mirror mirror on the wall, which is the fairest panto of all? Casting announced for Empire panto

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

First Family Entertainment and the Liverpool Empire are delighted to announce the line-up for this year’s family pantomime, Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs.

TV favourite Jorgie Porter will be making her pantomime debut as she heads up this year’s cast in the title role of Snow White.

Jorgie is best known for her role as Theresa McQueen in the Channel 4 drama serial Hollyoaks. Jorgie was a contestant on the seventh series of Dancing On Ice on ITV. She made it all the way to the final where she finished runner up. Jorgie was then asked to return for Dancing On Ice: Champion Of Champions. Jorgie recently starred in ITV's award winning series I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! Jorgie spent 23 days in the jungle and had huge public support back home in the UK and finished 5th. Since returning from Australia, Jorgie has filmed an episode of Lip Sync Battle for Channel 5 against Rufus Hound and worked with E! on their live red carpet coverage of the Golden Globes. Most recently Jorgie has been announced as part of the cast of the much-anticipated remake of the comedy Are You Being Served which will be aired on BBC 1 later in the year.

Jorgie commented: "I am so excited to be appearing in Snow White at the Liverpool Empire. It’s every girls dream to play a Princess and Snow White is one of the best! What an honour it is to be appearing at the Liverpool Empire too which is such a beautiful theatre and the pantomime audiences are the best in the country so I can’t wait to see you all this Christmas."

Joining Jorgie are Empire pantomime favourite’s Leanne Campbell who will be taking on the role of the Wicked Queen and Liam Mellor is back by popular demand as the lovable comic, Muddles.

Leanne Campbell has become a much-loved member of the Empire panto family and returns for her fourth consecutive year. Leanne hosts Liverpool's number 1 breakfast show weekday mornings 6-10am on Radio City 96.7, but it was theatre where Leanne first cut her teeth when she first appeared on stage at the age of ten whilst training at Elliott Clarke school of Dance and Drama full time. She landed roles such as Annie (Liverpool Playhouse) and Helen Forester, Twopence to cross the Mersey (Liverpool Empire) for which she was awarded a Scouseology Award for ‘Top Theatre Personality’ and a Daily Post Art Award in the ‘Best New Talent’ category. After winning a scholarship to continue training at Laines Theatre Arts in London, she then continued her theatre career both in Liverpool and on tour.

Leanne is delighted to be appearing in the Empire pantomime once again but this time as the baddie a role she can’t wait to get her teeth stuck into.

After delighting audiences in the role of Idle Jack last year, Liam Mellor returns with his madcap comedy style this time in the role of Muddles. Liam is well known across the UK for his comedy work and received ‘cracking’ reviews last year. He is no stranger to pantomime having written and starred in many pantomime at St Helens Theatre Royal.

Snow White is a dazzling fairytale of a pantomime guaranteed to melt everyone’s hearts; watch as the beautiful Snow White and her seven little friends attempt to defeat the Wicked Queen. Will Snow White meet her Handsome Prince and save the day? Come along to the Liverpool Empire this Christmas to find out. Spectacular sets, sparkling costumes, side splitting comedy and lots and lots of fun for the whole family to enjoy.

To book tickets, visit http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/snow-white-2016/liverpool-empire/.

Exciting star casting announced for Sister Act UK tour

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

Alexandra Burke will be starring as ‘Deloris Van Cartier’ in the national tour of Curve’s all new production of the hit musical comedy Sister Act, directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood with musical supervision and arrangements by Tony award-winning Sarah Travis. Sister Act will open at Curve on Saturday July 30 2016.

Sister Act is at the Liverpool Empire from October 10-15 2016.

Craig commented: "I am truly thrilled that Alexandra is going to be our leading lady in this all new production of Sister Act at Curve. Alexandra is such a fantastic singer and actress that I know she is going to be amazing. I couldn’t think of anyone better to play the role of the smart and funny Deloris."

Alexandra added: "I’m over the moon to be given the opportunity to play the wonderful Deloris in Sister Act. It’s such an iconic role and a part I’ve always wanted to play. I love touring the UK and I’m thrilled to be working with Craig and his amazing creative team. I can’t wait to get started!"

Alexandra Burke can currently be seen starring as ‘Rachel Marron’ in the national tour of “The Bodyguard”, a part she also played in the West End. She originally rose to fame after winning the fifth series of The X Factor. Her debut number one single Hallelujah sold over one million copies in the UK, a first for a British female soloist. Burke’s first album, Overcome saw the release of her subsequent number one singles Bad Boys and Start Without You. In 2011 she embarked on her first solo tour and was invited by Beyoncé to support her I Am... Tour. Her second album, Heartbreak on Hold, was released in June 2012.

Based on the smash hit movie starring Whoopi Goldberg and Maggie Smith, Sister Act tells the hilarious story of Deloris Van Cartier, a disco diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she won’t be found – a Convent! Disguised as a nun and under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

Sister Act features original music by the 8 time Oscar and Tony Award winner Alan Menken. Alan’s credits include the films and stage musicals of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast”, “Aladdin”, “The Little Mermaid” and “Newsies” as well as “Tangled”, “Enchanted”, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”, “Pocahontas” and “Hercules” on film.  His other credits include the film and stage production of “Little Shop of Horrors”.

This all-new production of Sister Act is directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood with musical supervision and arrangements by Sarah Travis. Set and costume design is by Matthew Wright, with lighting design by Richard G Jones and sound design by Richard Brooker.

Craig Revel Horwood is probably best known as a judge on BBC One’s “Strictly Come Dancing”. As a director and choreographer his many credits include the recent all-star concert of Stephen Sondheim’s “Follies” at the Royal Albert Hall, “Sunset Boulevard” at the Comedy theatre in the West End, the national tours of “Fiddler on the Roof”, “Spend Spend Spend” and “Chess” (also Toronto) and “The Witches of Eastwick”, “Martin Guerre” and “Copacabana”, all at the Watermill Theatre. Craig also wrote and directed a brand new show, “Strictly Confidential” that toured the UK starring familiar faces from Strictly Come Dancing as well as the annual arena tours of “Strictly Come Dancing”. As a performer his West End Theatre credits include: 'Munkustrap' in “Cats” at the New London Theatre, “Miss Saigon” at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and ‘Harry’ in “Crazy for You” at the Prince Edward Theatre. Craig most recently starred as ‘Miss Hannigan’ in the national tour of “Annie”.

Sister Act has music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Glenn Slater, with a book by Cheri Steinkellner and Bill Steinkellner and additional book material by Douglas Carter Beane, based on the Touchstone Pictures Motion Picture “Sister Act” written by Jacob Howard.

Jamie Wilson Productions was formed in 2008 and has produced over 50 productions in the UK and internationally. These include Bruce Forsyth at the London Palladium, Robin Cousin’s Ice and most recently the critically acclaimed and box office hit Calamity Jane. As well as Sister Act, future productions include Tell Me on a Sunday with Jodie Prenger.

Curve is one of the UK’s leading producing theatres, achieving both audience and critical acclaim. Opened in 2008, Curve’s award-winning building offers a completely unique visitor experience. Led by Chief Executive Chris Stafford and Artistic Director Nikolai Foster, the theatre has become renowned for the quality of its home-grown musicals and drama productions with recent successes including Roald Dahl’s The Witches, Lionel Bart’s Oliver! Tennessee Williams A Streetcar Named Desire and Sue Townsend’s The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole The Musical.

To book tickets, visit http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sister-act/liverpool-empire/.

Avenue Q: A preview of the puppet extravaganza

Paul Jomain
(Image Source: Avenue Q)

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Avenue Q hits the Liverpool Empire on Monday February 22. On the surface, it seems like your typical family-friendly puppet show, but as Paul Jomain, puppet designer for the show, explains in this exclusive interview, Avenue Q is far more unique and a very different production than the puppet shows that your mum and dad might remember ...

First of all, tell us about Avenue Q.

Basically, it's a parody of Sesame Street, and it takes things one step further. You've got the characters who grow up, whereas in Sesame Street a lot of the characters are quite youthful, so this show turns it on its head. It shows you what the characters would be like when they've grown up, gone to university and gone out on the jobs market. There's a mixture of relationships, careers, sexuality and stuff, so it takes things one step further (than Sesame Street).

What is your role with Avenue Q, and what was your background prior to Avenue Q?

Well, I used to look after the puppets in the show when it was in the West End, which is going back ten years now. Then, I took over building puppet characters for the UK West End Macintosh show and the UK tours, so I trained with a Muppet builder; I worked at the Jim Henson company, which was in Camden Town. That was where I learned how to make puppets. So now I deal with the maintenance of the puppets. I've got about 5 different characters in the show, but there are about 35 puppets that you don't see at once (due to costume changes), so we've got quite a lot of characters backstage that are looked after, and actors who are coming on and off with a new puppet after a costume change for the next scene.

How have you found your time working on the Avenue Q team?

It's very enjoyable. It's a bit of a bizarre job; if someone says to you "What do you do for a living?", saying that I work with puppets is very interesting. I've had other jobs involving puppets, for example working on the Monkey for PG Tips. When you go out and you find materials for a character, it's funny that you have no idea who you've got in your bag; you might have a character that becomes quite famous as the Monkey has done. But I really like my job.

How has Avenue Q grown over the years, and how do you see it growing in future?

Well, it's certainly expanded all over the world. We've got so many different production companies that are doing the show. It's so accessible as well, even if it's to a different culture or to a different country, because you can do quite a lot with a puppet character than you can't do with an actor, for example with dialogue. And we sometimes look at some rather racy subject matters, which I think softens the edge on topics that people maybe don't want to talk about, which I think is a good thing. But hopefully the show will just progress and progress, and there'll be more countries around the world doing it because it's such a great show.

It's certainly very uplifting, and I'm 44 myself, so I'm of the generation that used to watch The Muppets Show. But I've noticed when I've worked with clients, or whoever is my workshop, that when I show them puppets, you can't fail to get somebody's face to light up. Sometimes the most hardened people that you meet, including very business-like people, you can actually see them regressing in their faces; they almost turn into children.

Finally, what can the Liverpool audience expect from Avenue Q?

I think they're gonna have a lot of fun. I'm sure there'll be a lot of people there who will have already seen the show before, but it's quite funny seeing new punters that go in to see the show. There was one time where a footballer came, and I can't remember his name, but there were hardly any seats left in the theatre, so the staff put them in one of the boxes at the side of the stage. Now, they hadn't seen the show, so we had great fun watching their body language as they were watching the show. A couple of times, they turned around in laughter and said "Oh my goodness, you can't do that with puppets!" But it's a great laugh; the Liverpool audience will enjoy it, they really will.

Avenue Q plays the Liverpool Empire from Monday February 22 to Saturday February 27. To book your tickets, click here.

For more information about Avenue Q, visit http://avenuequk.com/.