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Blue County
Aaron Benward and Scott Reeves both had impressive professional resumés before they brought their voices together.
Aaron toured and recorded with his gospel singer father while Scott was encouraged to sing as a youngster by family friend Glen Campbell. They bring together a natural flair for harmony. Blue County have toured extensively with Rascal Flatts, Sugarland, Keith Urban and Tim McGraw. They have also been featured artists in People Magazine.
WHY? Three Time CMA and ACM Nominated Duo of the Year with six US Billboard Top 40 hits
Studio
£15
Maidenhead Community Choir
Led by Tina Reibl.
An opportunity for all those who enjoy singing a toe-tapping repertoire, from Bach to the Beatles and Gershwin to Gospel. No audition or sight-reading required.
Suitable for all levels of experience.
Summer
Tues 1 May – 17 Jul (exc 29 May and 5 Jun)
7pm - 8.15pm
£80 per 10 week term
Suitable for 18+ years.
- 26 Jun
- 3 Jul
- 2 more dates...
Teddies Music Club
Sing • Dance • Play
We’ll get you bouncing, jumping, tickling, giggling, laughing, oh and singing!
Teddies is energetic, lively and fun for grown-ups and children alike, with a singer and musician at every session.
Wednesdays (exc 4 Apr, 11 Apr and 30 May)
10am – 11am
£6 (including one adult) | £4 per sibling or additional adult
Suitable for ages 0-5 years.
Please book one free 'Accompanying Adult' tickets for this workshop, and a free 'Baby Seat' if you are bringing a baby under 6 months
Acoustic Guitar - Absolute Beginners
Led by Richard Lee.
Always wanted to learn guitar but never got around to it? Want to trade your air guitar skills for real guitar skills? It is never too late to learn. Learn guitar right from the beginning. These are fun and informative lessons from a guitarist with over 20 years’ experience.
Spring
18 Apr – 16 May
7pm – 8pm
£40 per 5 week course
Summer
Wed 6 Jun – 4 Jul and 11 Jul – 8 Aug
7pm – 8pm
£40 per 5 week course
Suitable for 18+ years.
- 27 Jun
- 4 Jul
- 5 more dates...
Acoustic Guitar - Beginners
Led by Richard Lee.
Always wanted to learn guitar but never got around to it? Want to trade your air guitar skills for real guitar skills? It is never too late to learn. Learn guitar right from the beginning. These are fun and informative lessons from a guitarist with over 20 years’ experience.
Spring
18 Apr – 16 May
8.15pm – 9.15pm
£40 per 5 week course
19 Apr – 17 May
7pm – 8pm
£40 per 5 week course
Summer
Wed 6 Jun – 4 Jul and 11 Jul – 8 Aug
8.15pm – 9.15pm
£40 per 5 week course
Thur 7 Jun – 5 Jul and 12 Jul – 9 Aug
7pm – 8pm
£40 per 5 week course
Suitable for 18+ years.
- 27 Jun
- 28 Jun
- 12 more dates...
Jonathan Byrd
Assimilating the sounds of southern traditional music, the North Caroline native writes new songs in an ancient style.
He has toured full time for ten years and released 7 albums. Accompanied by his Pickup Cowboy, Johnny Waken.
WHY? ‘Displays John Prine’s gift for stark little songs that tell big, complex stories, Guy Clark’s lean melodicism, Lyle Lovett’s wry mischief, and Bill Morrissey’s knack for the revealing image’ The Boston Globe
Supported by My Girl The River
My Girl The River is mainly the work of singer/songwriter Kris Wilkinson Hughes. She is a Louisiana native, who has been writing songs since a teenager. She brings us into her American deep south world with stories, anecdotes, white lies and fairytales. Some told, mostly sung. She has supported Laura Cantrell and Suzanne Vega.
Studio
£15
Swing'n'Sinatra with Five Star Swing
Join Five Star Swing for an evening of the famous songs spanning Sinatra’s career.
From the Tommy Dorsey band to Hollywood plus Vegas and the Rat Pack to recordings with the Count Basie band. This is a journey through the decades of an unforgettable genre, with the greatest singer of its time!
WHY? Five Star Swing’s singers and multi-instrumentalists have appeared at the Leicester Square Theatre, BBC2’s Military Wives, BBC1’s Children in Need and at Blackpool’s Tower Ballroom
Courtyard Theatre
£18 (£16 conc)
Acoustic Guitar - Intermediate
Led by Richard Lee.
Always wanted to learn guitar but never got around to it? Want to trade your air guitar skills for real guitar skills? It is never too late to learn. Learn guitar right from the beginning. These are fun and informative lessons from a guitarist with over 20 years’ experience.
Spring
Thur 11 Jan 11 – 8 Feb, 22 Feb – 22 Mar and 19 Apr – 17 May
8.15pm – 9.15pm
£40 per 5 week course
Summer
Thur 7 Jun – 5 Jul and 12 Jul – 9 Aug
8.15pm – 9.15pm
£40 per 5 week course
Suitable for 18+ years.
- 28 Jun
- 5 Jul
- 5 more dates...
A Band Called Malice - The Definitive Tribute to The Jam
A Band Called Malice – The Definitive Tribute to The Jam
A Band Called Malice recreate hit after hit of The Jam, one of the most influential and iconic bands in music history. With a wealth of experience, they are committed to giving a performance that is both energetic and authentic.
WHY? Expect to hear all the classics such as That's Entertainment, Going Underground, Town Called Malice and many more
Courtyard Theatre
£14
The Studio Session
Part of the Farm’s programme to support emerging musicians. Local acts play three numbers – at least one of which is an original.
Summer 2018 Line Up
Singer-guitarist and music graduate Charlotte Child is inspired by the likes of the 1975, Amy Winehouse, Carole King, The Stone Roses and Pale Waves.
Holybrook is the music project of acoustic singer/songwriter David Vachell. His style has been compared to Tom Paxton, Nick Drake or Steve Earle.
Tim Bastock (guitar) and Kim Halliday (bass guitar, tenor recorder) are Toxic Sofa. The duo will be performing some comedy song favourites, as well as one of their own songs.
Band Magic Potty will be performing a special acoustic set featuring songs from Foo Fighters, Fleetwood Mac and Led Zeppelin.
And rounding off the line up is Country/Americana artist Liam Barnes.
Studio
£8
If you would like to perform at this Autumn's event, please email: jane.corry@nordenfarm.org
Clayson Sings Chanson
An enthralling evening dedicated to French ‘Chanson’ from Alan Clayson (Clayson and the Argonauts).
Exploring and performing songs in French and English by artists including Jacques Brel, Charles Aznavour and Paul Verlaine. Alan connects their impact on contemporary songwriters, from Ray Davies to Jarvis Cocker, with their emphasis on dramatic story telling. Accompanied by Andy Lavery on keyboards.
WHY? ‘His delivery and performance style has led to a deserved cult status’ Time Out
‘A wonderful evening by a master raconteur at the top of his game’ Newbury Weekly News
‘Definitely more than a performance — an experience!’ New York Village Voice
‘Hugely entertaining. Jacques would have approved’ Rock ‘N’ Reel [RNR]
‘Everything here is equal to the doomed romanticism that was Brel’s trademark’ Record Collector
‘A complex emotional landscape of understated dynamics and dark aesthetics’ Folk on Tap
Studio
£14
Silent Disco - 80s v 90s
Two DJs on two separate channels: Jeff plays the 80s and Dave plays the 90s.
Tune in on your wireless headphones to select the one you prefer. Dance like a legend in your own little bubble whilst you’re listening to one tune and your mates are listening to another!
WHY? This is Norden Farm’s first Silent Disco and is sure to be popular
Studio
£12
Presented by The Vinyl Frontier.
Eduardo Niebla
A formidable flamenco jazz guitar virtuoso and master of today’s generation.
Eduardo has traversed the worlds of jazz, classical, world and pop music. He has appeared in concert at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Celtic Connections Glasgow, Jaipur Festival India, Tbilisi International Jazz Festival and Glastonbury. He is accompanied by guitarist Daniel Martinez Lopez.
WHY? ‘Beautiful melodies, great grooves, charming and self-effacing. He cast a deep, engrossing spell over the audience’ London Jazz News
Studio
£14
Summer Concert Series 1: Mozart Plus
George Harliono (piano)
Mozart Fantasia in D minor, K.397
Beethoven Sonata in F minor, Op.57 (Appassionata)
Chopin Ballade No.1
Liszt Hungarian Rhapsody No.6: Harmonies du soir
Stravinsky 3 Dances from Petrushka
A thrilling programme takes us on a tour through the piano repertoire, beginning with Mozart’s heartfelt Fantasia, and ending with Stravinsky’s dazzling dances from Petrushka.
WHY? George Harliono is a rising star in the piano world
Courtyard Theatre
£16 (£14.50 conc) (£5 under 16s)
Alexandra Ridout (trumpet, flugel) and Sean Payne (saxes)
Brought back by public demand, the fresh, new programmes from two recently-awarded talents on the jazz scene.
Both Alexandra and Sean are BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year winners. Supported by an acclaimed rhythm section headed by drummer Clark Tracey with Andy Cleyndert (bass) and Alex Hutton (piano).
WHY? If you saw them last time you'll want to hear them again – and
if you didn't catch them, you definitely shouldn't miss them again!
Studio
£15 (£13 conc) (£5 under 16s)
One Night of Ska
An homage to the music, bands and artists that influenced two generations of teenagers.
Taking the best of the original 1960s Jamaican scene as well as the 2 Tone English Revival of the late 1970s. The seven piece band perform songs made famous by Prince Buster, Desmond Dekker, Madness, The Specials, The Selecter, The Maytals and Tony Tribe.
WHY? With hits such as The Israelites, One Step Beyond, It Mek, My Girl, Ghost Town, Red Red Wine and more
Courtyard Theatre
£15 (£13 Advantage Card)
Laurie Holloway in Concert with Students of 2018
Laurie Holloway and his Trio perform with the students of the 2018 Summer School.
WHY? The annual concert from the Montgomery Holloway Music Trust
Courtyard Theatre
£15
The 2018 Vinyl Frontier Singles Championship
With Jeff Lloyd.
Eight contestants bring three 7” singles with them and four first round duels decide who goes through to the semi-finals. The audience chooses the winner of each battle.
After a semi final and final one person is crowned The Vinyl Frontier Singles Champion 2018!
WHY? Hear music in its finest form – on vinyl and on fabulous hi-fi!
£8
Studio
Hat Fitz and Cara
The husband and wife’s musical style is a unique combination of folk, roots and gospel blues with old time flavourings reminiscent of a time once forgotten.
Hat Fitz is a veteran wild man of the blues scene in Australia. Cara draws on her soul background while also playing drums, washboard, flute and tin whistle.
WHY ‘Soaring soul vocals, visceral blues guitar, unexpected quiet, and sudden changes in feel and tempo’ Rhythms Magazine
Studio
£14 (£12 Supporters)
Mad About the Movies
The story of The Hollywood Musical as told by award winning singer Robert Habermann.
From the first talking picture The Jazz Singer to the musicals of Busby Berkeley, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers, MGM and Walt Disney. With hits from movies starring Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, Elvis Presley and more.
WHY? Expect songs including 42nd Street, Cheek To Cheek, Over The Rainbow, True Love, The Trolley Song and a medley of Oscar winning songs
£15
Studio
Purple Zeppelin
The excitement of Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin in one mesmerising show.
Whether you were lucky enough to have seen the original bands live or not, Purple Zeppelin will take you back.
In this new show, songs from both bands are played unplugged on acoustic instruments in the first set. In the second set, expect them to plug in and play all the classic hits!
Expect the magic, the excitement and the sheer raw energy generated by those incredible musicians. Expect Ritchie Blackmore’s on stage antics, Jimmy Page’s twin neck guitar and a very special violin bow solo!
WHY? The two and a half hour show covers more than 30 classic songs
Courtyard Theatre
£16
Rock n Roll Concertini with Matt Bond and the Poor Boys Good Time Band
A journey of some of the best loved Rock n Roll themes from the 1950s and beyond.
Be inspired by the sounds of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Elvis whilst the kids dance sing or just chill out on our bean bags.
Suitable for all ages.
WHY? It’s Rock and Roll with a touch of Yee Ha!
Studio
£10 (£8 under 16s)
Family and Friends (4 people) £32
Tickets/seats are not required for children under 18 months who are happy to sit on laps.
Fellow Pynins
An American duo created from years of travelling, farming, childrearing and touring with their 6 piece folk orchestra.
Fellow Pynins are storytellers and a contemporary rootsy folk band weaving banjo, guitar, mandolin and bouzouki beneath lilting vocal harmonies. Their repertoire consists of original songs and traditional European ballads collected during their travels.
WHY? ‘Will transport you into their haunting and beguiling world of love tales and spine-tingling harmonies’ Lisa Dunn, BBC
Studio
£14
Holder and Smith - A tribute to Django and Stephane, The Swing Era
The music of guitar and violin virtuosi Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli played by two of this country’s finest exponents of the style.
Expect to be flown back in time to the dance halls of the 1940s. Ben (violin, vocals) and Stuart (gypsy guitar) are both members of Gypsy Fire.
WHY? This really was the Swing era, full of irresistible rhythms and all the musical indulgence there was to offer
Studio
£13
The Quo Experience
Not just a tribute band – this is an experience with 50 years of hits.
Status Quo are Britian’s biggest singles chart band of all time. Stuart Michaels and Dave Crawte have spent years studying every detail of Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt’s playing styles and stage performances.
WHY? Including hits such as Rockin’ All Over the World, Whatever You Want, Down Down, Living On An Island, In The Army Now, Burning Bridges, What You’re Proposing and more
Andre Rieu 2018 Maastricht Concert
145 mins
An encore screening from The King of Waltz’s hometown of Maastricht. It features the maestro in his element, along with his 60 piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, sopranos, tenors and very special guests. Set against the stunning medieval backdrop of the town square.
WHY? André delivers an unforgettable musical experience full of humour, fun and emotion
£15
Summer Concert Series 2: Mozart Plus
Ashley Wass (piano)
Mozart Sonata in B flat, K.333
Schumann Scenes from Childhood
Elgar Variations on an original theme (Enigma)
A programme including a rare outing for Elgar’s own transcription of his Enigma Variations, alongside familiar works by Mozart and Schumann.
WHY? Ashley is a former winner of the London International Piano Competition
Courtyard Theatre
£16 (£14.50 conc) (£5 under 16s)
@ashleywass
<a target="blank" href="https://twitter.com/nordenfarm">@nordenfarm
Alistair McGowan - Introductions to Classical Piano
A brand new show which brings together all Alistair McGowan’s talents.
He plays tracks from the album and some other short classics piano pieces: from Gershwin to Grieg, Mompou to Mendelssohn, Satie to Schubert. In between the pieces, he will talk a little about history of each piece, the composer and his own connection to the music.
WHY? Expect a lot of beautiful music (with the odd mistake!), some interesting stories and a sprinkling of his trademark impressions
Courtyard Theatre
£15
The Dime Notes
Blues-drenched sounds of clarinet driven 1920s New Orleans jazz combine with London's hard-swinging vintage jazz band.
It unearths a repertoire of hot swinging jazz, stomps, blueses and forgotten gems of the era by musicians such as Jelly Roll Morton and James P Johnson. The Dime Notes present a fresh take on a timeless style, emphasising the propulsive grooves and sultry melodies which made early jazz revolutionary, controversial and wildly popular.
WHY? ‘Inspired!’ Sunday Times
Courtyard Theatre
£15 (£13 Supporters)
The Bon Jovi Experience
The greatest stadium rock band of all time is recreated by the sensational Bon Jovi Experience.
They are the only tribute band to have shared the stage with the real McCoy. Lead singer Tony Pearce is the world’s leading lookalike. With all the hits including Living On A Prayer, You Give Love A Bad Name, Keep The Faith, Bed of Roses, Always and more.
WHY? ‘The best tribute I have ever seen’ Jon Bon Jovi
Courtyard Theatre
£20
Klezmer-ish - The Music of Travellers
Four classically trained musicians let their hair down, explore a wide range of music from travelling people across the world and fuse it all together into their own unique sound.
The line up includes Tom Verity (clarinets, whistles), Rob Shepley (guitar, violin, vocals), Connie Del Vecchio (piano, accordion, violin) and Marcel Becker (double bass).
WHY? A musical journey through klezmer, tangos, gypsy jazz, Irish fiddle music, Italian folk music and much more
Studio
£14
@klezmerish
<a target="blank" href="https://twitter.com/nordenfarm">@nordenfarm
Summer Concert Series 3: Mozart Plus
St John’s Chamber Players
Dvorak 2 Romantic Pieces, Op.75
Mozart Horn Quintet in E flat, K.407
Brahms Clarinet Trio in A minor, Op.114
Dvorak Piano Quintet in A
Brahms’ dramatic Clarinet Trio was one of his last works. Dvorak’s popular Quintet is one of the most tuneful and radiant works in the chamber repertoire
WHY? An opportunity to hear one of Mozart’s less familiar chamber work
Courtyard Theatre
£16 (£14.50 conc) (£5 under 16s)
Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again! (cert tbc)
Dir: Ol Parker 2018 | Run time tbc, US
Get ready to sing and dance, laugh and love all over again! Sophie finds out more about her mother Donna's past while seeking guidance on how to handle her pregnancy. The all-star cast includes Meryl Streep, Lily James, Julie Walters, Pierce Brosnan and Colin Firth.
WHY? An all-new original musical based on the songs of ABBA
£10.50 (£9.50 conc)
Special Ticket Offer
£9 (£8 conc) tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
Parent and Baby Screening
The screening on Tues 28 Aug at 11am is exclusively for parents with children under 2 years. Lights are kept on low level and you can move around if you need to. Tickets are £5.50 for adults (including a cup of tea/coffee); babies and infants are free of charge. Seating is unreserved and unaccompanied adults are not admitted. Please note that buggies and pushchairs cannot be taken into the Courtyard Theatre.
The Magic of Summer with Simon Allen (saxes)
A formidable young jazz artist, Simon's style and humour creates great jazz.
With the renowned Pendulum Trio rhythm section: Alex Hutton (piano), Andy Cleyndert (bass) and Clark Tracey (drums).
WHY? ‘He knows how to produce a luminous, floating tone on alto sax, has an impressive technique, and constructs his solos with maturity and confidence’ The Independent
Studio
£15 (£13 conc) (£5 under 16s)
Jonas Kaufmann: Under the Stars
120 mins.
A spectacular outdoor concert, captured live at Berlin’s iconic Waldbühne amphitheatre. Jonas Kaufmann is regarded as one of the world’s greatest tenors. He has captivated audiences across the globe with his incredible voice. Join him for a magical night of music under the stars.
WHY? The star tenor will perform famous arias and timeless Italian songs
£15
U2Baby
For U2Baby the sound is important, the look is important, but ultimately they recreate the feeling of a live U2 gig.
The chills, the hairs standing up on the back of the neck. Everything that makes a U2 show so special. With hit after hit from the 1980s to the present day from A Sort of Homecoming to With or With Out You.
WHY? ‘The UK’s number one tribute to U2’ The Cavern Club, Liverpool
Courtyard Theatre
£15
The Big Berkshire Beach Gig
A showcase for the most exciting local musical talent in our main theatre.
WHY? The evening wouldn’t be complete without breaks between the acts - so you can
soak up the atmosphere on our beach!
Courtyard Theatre
£8
Appear on the line up!
We're looking for local bands and musicians to join our line up for The Big Berkshire Beach Gig.
During the gig your music will be recorded by professional technicians and sound engineers. You will then be invited back to remix the multi track recording and walk away with a professionally mastered live recording of your sound - for free!
To be in with a chance of playing, send a sample of your music and info about the band to jane.corry@nordenfarm.org
Big Band Concertini with the Blakes Heaven Big Band
An original and enjoyable live music experience designed for grown ups to enjoy with their children in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Blake's Heaven Big Band is a 17 piece ensemble performing jazz, swing, pop and funk, TV themes, Latin and rock – all with a unique twist.
Suitable for all ages.
WHY? Be inspired by sizzling saxes, screaming trumpets and soulful trombones whilst your little one dance sing, wriggle or even sleep!
Courtyard Theatre
This is a standing event with some allocated seating
£10 (£8 under 16s)
Family and Friends (4 people) £32
Son Yambu
Authentic Cuban son, the intoxicating fusion of Spanish and African rhythms that gave rise to salsa.
The band features a new generation of Cuban musicians who are all passionate about maintaining the traditions of the genre, continuing the Buena Vista legacy that put Cuban music back on the map.
WHY? Join us for a free salsa workshop before the event, spaces are limited so don’t miss out!
Courtyard Theatre
£15
Summer Concert Series 4: Mozart Plus
The summer recitals series highlighting works by Mozart concludes with the greatest of all works for wind ensemble, his grand Serenade.
St John’s Wind Ensemble
Jennifer Coleman (soprano)
Nigel Wilkinson (piano)
Richard Strauss Serenade in E flat, Op.7
Songs by Mozart and Richard Strauss
Mozart Serenade for 13 wind instruments, K.361
WHY? Jennifer Coleman provides some delectable songs by both composers.
Courtyard Theatre
£16 (£14.50 conc) (£5 under 16s)
@jennycoleman
<a target="blank" href="https://twitter.com/nordenfarm">@nordenfarm
Martin Turner ex Wishbone Ash
The original Wishbone Ash line up forged a unique musical identity. It was synonymous with high quality guitar-driven melodic rock music.
Martin Turner continues to perform the band’s best loved works. He is joined by Danny Willson and Misha Nikolic (guitars) and drummer Tim Brown. They perform classic tracks from the extensive Wishbone Ash repertoire and new music that remains true to the original style.
WHY? Featuring a full performance of Wishbone Ash’s classic 1970 first album
Courtyard Theatre
£16
The Billy Joel Songbook performed by Elio Pace
A critically acclaimed tour celebrating the phenomenal music of Billy Joel
Elio has performed highly acclaimed reunion concerts with Billy Joel’s original band. He delivers a powerhouse of a show with his six piece band. Expect over 30 classic hits including Uptown Girl, Just The Way You Are, My Life, Goodnight Saigon and Piano Man.
WHY? ‘A great musician, artist and friend. He is a star!’ Alfie Boe
Courtyard Theatre
Son of Town Hall
Welcome to the mythical world of Son of Town Hall.
They are musicians Ben Parker, from London, and David Berkeley, from New Mexico. They create a world that transcends time and space, complete with Victorian-era outfits, meditations about the sea and songs that beg you to sing along. They have performed to packed audiences across America and Europe.
WHY? ‘Think Simon & Garfunkel lost at sea, and you get a sense of the mythic world at play here’ Philadelphia Inquirer
Studio
£14
Adam Kay: This is Going to Hurt
Award-winning comedian Adam Kay shares entries from his diaries as a junior doctor in this 'electrifying' (Guardian) evening of stand-up and music.
Absolute sell-out Edinburgh Fringe 2016 and 2017 and Soho Theatre 2017.
The accompanying book, This is Going to Hurt is a Sunday Times bestseller – and copies will be available to purchase and for signature after the performance.
WHY? ‘Intersperses horror stories from the NHS frontline with a catalogue of sublimely silly spoof songs, and some blissfully brilliant wordplay’ ★★★★★ Mail on Sunday
‘Viscerally raw and passionately delivered’ ★★★★ Chortle
Courtyard Theatre
£17 (£15 conc)
Presented by Seabright Productions.
A Super Happy Story (About Feeling Super Sad)
Presented by Silent Uproar.
A hilarious cabaret musical about depression that explains, sings and throws glitter about how it’s OK not to be OK. Sally’s a happy person. She doesn’t let little things get her down and she almost never cries. But she’s got an illness. It makes her feel like she isn’t the person she wants to be, but she doesn’t want anyone to know about it.
It’s joyful, buoyant, gleeful, slightly silly, sugar coated, unrelenting and completely super happy! (Except for all the bits about depression).
Written by Jon Brittain (Olivier Award-winning Rotterdam), with music by Frisky and Mannish’s Matthew Floyd Jones. Winner of a 2017 Fringe First and the Musical Theatre Review Best Musical.
Suitable for ages 14+ years.
WHY? ‘A mix of wit and low-key emotion that suddenly grips your heart’ The Guardian
★★★★ WhatsOnStage | ★★★★★ British Theatre Guide | ★★★★ The Scotsman
Studio
£14 (£12 Advantage Card)
1 hour
Dan Walsh & Alistair Anderson
Two of the most dynamic musicians in folk music strike sparks off each other with songs, Northumbrian rants, jazzy ballads and Old Time reels.
Alistair Anderson (Concertina and Northumbrian Pipes) and former BBC Radio 2 Musician of the Year nominee, Dan Walsh (Banjo, Guitar and Vocals) share a warm chemistry on stage and their performance combines high energy with world class musicianship.
WHY? ‘A tangible magic’ Folkwords
‘Nifty fun with bags of wow factor’ FRoots
Studio
£16.50
Limehouse Lizzy
The boys are back!
Limehouse Lizzy continue to keep the spirit of Celtic rock icon Philip Lynott and his band Thin Lizzy alive, well and dominating stages worldwide. The band have also added a tribute into their show to ex-Thin Lizzy guitarist (and world renowned solo artist) Gary Moore.
From their Official PRS award, performing for Virgin Atlantic in Barbados, television appearances and to being recruited to record and tour by members of the original Thin Lizzy, Limehouse Lizzy enter their 25th year with their most explosive show and critically acclaimed line up yet.
WHY? 'Limehouse Lizzy's Wayne Ellis, an uncanny ringer for Phil Lynott' The Guardian
'Entertainment for more than a decade…fantastic live music' Arena BBC2
'If you're sceptical about tribute acts, you won't be after seeing Limehouse Lizzy' Radio Times
'Gig of the week' The Mirror
Courtyard Theatre
£17
Fairport Convention
The band has been making great music for over fifty years. Credited with originating British folk-rock music, they retain a passion for live performance.
Whether you are a long-time fan or a newcomer to their music, an evening with Fairport Convention is sure to surprise and delight you.
WHY? ‘Impressive musicians with a great back catalogue... (they) take chances and clearly enjoy themselves’ The Guardian
‘Vigorous and confident... the music leapt around the room’ The Mirror
Courtyard Theatre
£26
Presented by RM Promotions.
No Jacket Required - The Phil Collins Tribute
The UK's top Phil Collins tribute returns by popular demand, as part of their 15th Anniversary Tour.
This stunning eleven piece band performs two hours of non-stop hits from Phil's award-winning solo career, plus a little Genesis thrown in for good measure.
From Another Day In Paradise to Easy Lover and the classic In The Air Tonight, there's something for everyone in this spectacular show which spans three decades of chart-topping success.
WHY? A sell-out show every time they perform with us, so don’t miss out!
Courtyard Theatre
£18
The Musicians of Bremen
A visually stunning adaptation of the Grimm’s fairy tale.
A donkey, a cat, a cockerel and a dog are too old to be of any use to their masters. In this tumbling, musical adventure follow their adventures and their extraordinary friendships. It shows that despite our differences, we can be friends, and that we are never too old to live our dreams. With puppetry, movement and trapeze, all accompanied by live music.
Age guidance: 3 – 7 years.
WHY? A highly visual show and non-verbal work for young and hearing impaired audiences
Courtyard Theatre
£10 (£8 under 16s), Family & Friends (4 people) £32
Rachael McShane and the Cartographers
The singer, cellist, fiddle and viola player is an original member of folk big band Bellowhead.
She toured internationally with them as well as making several TV appearances. Bellowhead recorded 5 studio albums and won a total of 8 BBC Folk Awards in their 12 years together. Rachael is now working on a new solo project of traditional songs. She plays with a brand new band, featuring guitarist Matthew Ord (Assembly Lane) and melodeon player Julian Sutton (Kathryn Tickell, Sting).
WHY? ‘A classy musician and a singer of striking elegance’ Mike Wilson’s Music Blog
‘You're in the presence of something very special… what a voice’ Sid Smith, BBC Music
Courtyard Theatre
Bob Drury's Viva Neil Diamond
Described in Vegas as 'one of the world's finest vocal tributes to Neil Diamond', Bob Drury's one-man show is an absolute 'must-see' for all Diamond fans.
All the hits including Cracklin' Rosie, America, Love on the Rocks, Play Me, Hello Again, Pretty Amazing Grace, Song Sung Blue, Sweet Caroline and many more
Whilst performing in Las Vegas two years ago Bob Drury was described 'one of the world's finest vocal tributes to Neil Diamond' and he's now back touring the UK with his new show
A celebration of the legendary Neil Diamond and his incredible back catalogue of songs. Bob Drury's one-man show is a must see for any Diamond fan. His performance in Vegas has been described as ‘one of the world's finest vocal tributes to Neil Diamond’. His vocal likeness has been delighting audiences around the world.
This year's show includes all the favourites such as Cracklin' Rosie, America, Love on the Rocks, Play Me, Hello Again, Forever in Blue Jeans, Beautiful Noise, I'm a Believer, Red Red Wine and of course Sweet Caroline. Also expect Neil Diamond's UK hit Pretty Amazing Grace and a few lesser known songs.
WHY? ‘An uncanny resemblance to Neil Diamond's voice. That sent tingles down my spine Bob!’ Debbie McGee, BBC Radio Berkshire
‘Bob, it was great hearing you last night and I was totally blown away by your level of musicianship on guitar’ Mark LeVang, keyboard player with Neil Diamond's band
‘Bob is well established as one of the world's finest vocal tributes to Neil Diamond’ Steve Tatone, Film Producer, Midnight Pass Productions
‘If I didn’t know better I’d have said that was Neil Diamond singing’ Pat Marsh, BBC Radio Kent
‘Oozing class’ Nolan Dean, Cruise Director, M/V Island Star
‘Neil Diamond fans will be delighted with the sound-alike quality and the nifty guitar work’ UK Cabaret Magazine
Courtyard Theatre
£16
Never 42
The UK’s premier Level 42 tribute return, bringing Level 42's music live!
The line up includes Howie Rogers (bass & vocals), Garreth Hicklin (keyboards & vocals), Mike Wheeler (drums & vocals), Tom Wright (guitar & vocals) and Richard Pardy (sax). They perform Level 42's greatest hits alongside fan favourites.
Expect to hear Livin it up (The Sun Goes Down), Lessons In Love, Something About You, The Chant Has Begun, Starchild, Are You Hearing What I Hear, Hot Water… and so many more!
Courtyard Theatre
£17
Alvin Youngblood Hart
The New Orleans native is known as one of the world's foremost practitioners of country blues.
Alvin is also known as a faithful torchbearer for 1960s and 1970s guitar rock, Western Swing and vintage country. He is a Grammy Award winner and has released a Grammy Award nominated album. He has apperared on BBC2’s Later with Jools Holland and BBC4’s Blues on Later.
WHY? ‘The boy got thunder in his hands!’ Taj Mahal
Studio
£14
The Fabulous Duck Bros - Tribute to the Music of Eric Clapton
A collection of professional and experienced musicians pay tribute to Eric Clapton’s solo career.
Fronted by long term Clapton fan Phil Astles, the band perform songs produced by Eric throughout his long career. These include the great songs of 24 Nights, The Blues Era and also his time with Derek and the Dominoes and the Cream.
WHY? With a set list that includes classics such as Layla, Wonderful Tonight, Forever Man, Cocaine, Lay Down Sally, Badge, I Shot the Sheriff, Change the World and Bell Bottom Blues
Courtyard Theatre
£15
Harry and Chris Save the World
The hottest comedy-rap-jazz duo out there.
They might also be the only one. After sell-out runs of their 2016 and 2017 shows at the Edinburgh Fringe, Harry Baker and Chris Read have been featured three times on Sky’s The Russell Howard Hour.
Last year they prevented a apocalypse and got a panda pregnant, so they're now drunk on comedy-rap-jazz power, intent on bringing love and laughter to a world that needs both more than ever.
WHY? ‘Amazing, fabulously entertaining’ Jonathan Ross
‘A wonderful blend of infectious songs packed with sharp, clever wordplay… Harry and Chris’ family friendly set leaves the audience with a smile on their face and the catchy tunes stuck in their head for the rest of the day’ ★★★★★ The Sunday Post
‘The numbers are upbeat and feel-good, and all of them are about surprising and inventive subjects or points of view’ ★★★★★ Fringe Guru
'The pair are inspiring Instagram posts in human form' Chortle
Studio
£12.50
Cara Dillon - Upon a Winter's Night
Cara and her band capture the mystery of Christmas with a collection of songs ancient and modern.
They weave Celtic and folksy rhythms alongside reverent and atmospheric carols while Cara holds the darkness at bay with the purity of her voice.
The Christmas story is retold with genuine wonder and celebrated with the dignity, passion and beauty it deserves. Christmas is one of Cara’s passions and her live show and album only go to prove it.
WHY? ‘Simple and stunning’ The Sunday Times
‘An instant Christmas classic’ BBC
‘There’s enchantment aplenty’ ★ ★ ★ ★ The Independent
‘A reminder of the real meaning of the Festive Season, uplifting and inspirational” The Daily Echo
Courtyard Theatre
£26
Hundred Watt Club presents An Evening of Burlesque and Cabaret
Have you been naughty or nice this year? Hundred Watt Club's gift to you is this hot toddy of a show, jam packed full of festive burlesque, cabaret, circus and drag acts.
Always seductive, always sublime, and always that little bit ridiculous. This is an evening of vintage inspired, Christmas themed entertainment. If you like your Winter nights bawdy and a little bit naughty, this is for you!
Starring: Your host, fabulous hostess and angel atop the Christmas tree Eva Von Schnippisch; slinky sugarplum fairy showgirl Lena Mae; circus royalty and her tinselled hula hoops Abi Collins; the queen of 'look-at-me', lametta bedecked Lolo Brow; and the ridiculous, but hairy and hunky Santa Claus, Dave The Bear!
WHY? Perfect for an alternative festive night out with work or friends.
Ages 18+ years only. Adult themes, strong language and partial nudity employed and embraced!
Courtyard Theatre
£16
ELO Again
The 7 piece band give a dramatic taste of what a real ELO concert was like back in their heyday.
The whole experience is professionally re-enacted with a great sound reproduction, light show and visual effects.
ELO Again bring the spectacular live effect of ELO’s famous orchestrations, soaring strings and vocals, full of depth and tone. They certainly know how to entertain too, as the hits just keep on coming. All the big hits are performed – Mr Blue Sky, Livin’ Thing, Sweet Talkin’ Woman, Roll Over Beethoven, Wild West Hero, Don't Bring Me Down, The Diary of Horace Wimp, Telephone Line, Turn to Stone plus many more.
WHY? Relive the age of glam rock in the 21st century as Elo Again pay tribute to the beautifully crafted songs of Jeff Lynne
Courtyard Theatre
£18