Season Brochure Autumn 2023

There’s something really special about the start of a fresh new autumn season, and this year feels particularly exciting as we reopen the doors to our newly refurbished Circle Lounge. We know audiences have missed having the full Hippodrome experience under one roof, so we can’t wait to welcome you back.

We’re really proud to be working with chef Angelina Adamo on a new menu concept with delicious afternoon teas for matinees and Mediterranean-inspired sharing platters, small plates and sweet treats for the evenings; it’s all absolutely delicious (I tried everything, a few times, just to be sure)

Talking of sweet treats, Charlie and The Chocolate Factory is the perfect family treat for October half term This spectacular new production combines some of the most memorable songs from the original 1970 s film with new numbers from the multi awardwinning songwriters of Hairspray - you won’t want to miss it.

Another reason I love the autumn season is the lead up to my favourite time of year at the Hippodrome - panto season We’ve completed our spectacular principal cast for this year ’ s ‘giant’ pantomime, adding the brilliant Samantha Womack and Alexanda O’Reilly to our incredible line up of Alison Hammond, Matt Slack, Andrew Ryan and

Doreen Tipton Alongside our stellar cast, there are some magical surprises in store for Jack and the Beanstalk, so I hope to see you there.

Our festive line up is completed with the return of Birmingham Royal Ballet’s enchanting production of The Nutcracker and Dear Santa in our Patrick Studio - the perfect introduction to theatre for our younger families

In 2024, we celebrate 125 years of this wonderful theatre, and we certainly have some huge blockbuster productions for you.

We can’t wait to welcome back Sir Matthew Bourne in February with his magical dance production of Edward Scissorhands and expect stunning puppetry and storytelling from the phenomenal production Life of Pi when it visits Birmingham as part of its first UK tour Tickets are also flying out for the return of Wicked in spring, so book early to make sure you don’t miss out

Our mission is to provide that “goosebumps” feeling through memorable and extraordinary experiences and we ’ re so pleased you can now have the full Hippodrome “goosebumps” experience under one roof again. We can’t wait to see you

Birmingham Hippodrome strives to provide Access for all.

TWe are pleased to have launched our brand new Access Registration scheme in partnership with Nimbus Disability allowing online booking for the first time alongside our phone service. Nimbus Disability is a social enterprise run by and for disabled people.

Registering is a three-step process, valid for three years and is completely free. This scheme will enable you to:

• Book wheelchair spaces online as well as by phone

• Book in essential companions online as well as by phone

• Have easier access to the most appropriate seats for captioned, BSL interpreted and audio-described performances on an interactive seat map

• View all discounts available to you online

Find out more and register at birminghamhippodrome.com/accessregistration

Please ask our Ticket Sales team for a copy of our access brochure for full details of our access provision.

Our Access Forum, made up of audiences, staff, volunteers and partners, meets quarterly and are committed to improving the experience for all visitors.

If you have any questions, our friendly Access Advisors are available at 0121 689 1060 or hippodromeaccess@birminghamhippodrome.com

Disney’s The Lion King

There are just a few more weeks to catch this acclaimed production in Birmingham!

Set against the majesty of the Serengeti to the evocative rhythms of Africa, The Lion King tells the story of Simba’s epic journey to fulfill his destiny as King of the Pridelands.

Director Julie Taymor uses breathtaking theatrical magic to bring Disney’s beloved animated feature to life in a production which has thrilled over 110 million people around the world.

Don’t miss your chance to experience this theatrical phenomenon

For best availability, please check mid-week performances.

“A magnificent family show that roars with pride and passion”

I Am Birmingham

“

The best show I have ever seen on stage in Birmingham - or anywhere”

Birmingham Mail

“ Take your place in the Circle of Life!

A must see ”

Express & Star

“

There is simply nothing else like it”

The New York Times

Foil, Arms & Hog: Hogwash

With over 1 billion views online, Foil, Arms & Hog are one of the internet’s most renowned comedy sketch groups, but it’s live performance where they thrive. Having previously sold out the Hammersmith Apollo, New York Town Hall and over 26,000 tickets at the 2022 Edinburgh Fringe, Foil, Arms & Hog present Hogwash; a fast-paced mix of sketches, improvisation, audience participation and talking suitcases The show has plenty of music too, including a parody of ‘Every Musical Ever’, and a rock anthem from a group of octogenarians looking to escape a retirement home Come and see why the Irish trio have become the top selling act at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival for three consecutive years

Foil, Arms & Hog are best known for their viral comedy sketches which include ‘Getting past US Immigration’, ‘Quarantine Maths Class Disaster’, ‘An Englishman Plays Risk’ and their mother and son recurring series ‘Anne and Oisín’ Their sketches have been shared in over 150 countries, from local radio stations in the Lebanon to television shows in the UK, Australia, USA, Canada and the Middle East

Dawn French Is A Huge Twat

“This show is so-named because unfortunately, it’s horribly accurate

There have been far too many times I have made stupid mistakes or misunderstood something vital or jumped the gun in a spectacular display of twattery

I thought I might tell some of these buttockclenching embarrassing stories to give the audience a peek behind the scenes of my work life

Roll up! Book early to see the telly vicar lady be a total twat on stage, live in front of your very eyes And ears ”

The Times

“Mini masterpieces of self-mockery. Hugely engaging stories from her 40-year career ”

The Guardian

FESTIVALS

Did you know we ’ re a leading festivals producer and partner in the region, bringing the best of outdoor arts into the city and beyond? In 2022-3 192,000 people engaged with our festivals work.

Guz Khan Live!

By popular demand, Guz Khan comes back to Birmingham!

This loveable, funny guy is known for bringing his big-screen persona and BAFTA-nominated hilarity to the stand-up stage in Guz Khan Live!

Guz is the creator and star of BBC’s Man Like Mobeen, alongside his appearances on Taskmaster (C4), The Last Leg (C4), Live at the Apollo (BBC), Would I Lie To You (BBC), QI (BBC), Four Weddings and A Funeral (Hulu), & movies Army of Thieves and The Bubble (Netflix), How To Date Billy Walsh (Amazon) and much more.

“As a stand-up, Khan is very much a star Make no mistake”

The Evening Standard

This year we’ve produced Lunar New Year, B-SIDE Hip-Hop Festival and Birmingham Weekender, transforming the streets of Birmingham into our third stage.

Our festivals are programmed to reflect the diversity of the West Midlands and beyond.

birminghamhippodrome.com/festivals

Vouchers

From £16

Find out more at birminghamhippodrome.com/giftvouchers

Dance Consortium presents Ailey

2

Ailey 2 is universally renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the country’s finest earlycareer dance talent in the United States with the passion and creative vision of today’s most outstanding and emerging choreographers

Dance Magazine calls Ailey 2 “second to none ” and The New York Times declares “there’s nothing like an evening spent with Ailey 2, the younger version of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater”.

For their return to the UK, Ailey 2 brings an exciting repertory featuring Francesca Harper’s futuristic Freedom Series (excerpt), Robert Battle’s thrilling The Hunt, the incredible energy of William Forsythe’s Enemy in the Figure (excerpt), and Alvin Ailey’s beloved masterpiece Revelations

“Off-the-charts energy”

The New Yorker Discounts Access Families Friends Groups S Schools

Our gift vouchers make the perfect gift for the theatre lovers in your life (especially when you ’ re not sure what they’d like to see, or when they can go).

can be bought for any amount, and are quick, convenient, and flexibleideal for those last-minute gifts!

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie

WINNER!

Best New Musical WhatsOnStage Awards, London

Following a record-breaking West End residency, sold-out UK & Ireland Tour and Amazon Studios award-winning film, the smash-hit musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie returns to Birmingham.

Jamie New is sixteen and lives on a council estate in Sheffield Jamie doesn’t quite fit in Jamie is terrified about the future. Jamie is going to be a sensation. Supported by his brilliant mum and surrounded by his friends, Jamie overcomes prejudice and steps out of the darkness, into the spotlight. This “funny, outrageous, touching” (The Telegraph) musical sensation is not to be missed!

From £25

Funny, fabulous and feel good, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie features an all-star cast including West End sensation Ivano Turco as Jamie, EastEnders legend John Partridge as Hugo/Loco Chanelle, Dancing on Ice royalty Hayley Tamaddon as Miss Hedge, Coronation Street’s Shobna Gulati as Ray, and musical theatre star Rebecca McKinnis as Margaret

Set to an original score of catchy pop tunes that will “blow the roof off the theatre” (Mail on Sunday) by lead singer-songwriter of The Feeling, Dan Gillespie Sells and writer Tom MacRae (Doctor Who). Choreographed by Kate Prince (Into the Hoods, SYLVIA, Message in a Bottle) This “sparkling coming-of-age musical” (The Times) will have everybody talking about Jamie for years to come

Half-Term Treat

Charlie and The Chocolate FactoryThe Musical

“ STUNNINGLY SPECTACULAR”

Manchester Evening News

Escape to a world of pure imagination with ROALD DAHL’S Charlie and The Chocolate Factory - The Musical

Based on the iconic story, this spectacular stage show follows the hit West End and Broadway productions to combine the memorable songs from the original 1970’s motion picture (The Candy Man and Pure Imagination) with all new numbers from the multi award-winning songwriters of Hairspray.

When Charlie Bucket finds one of the five golden tickets to the Wonka Chocolate Factory, Charlie and the other winners can’t wait to feast on the sweets of their dreams. But beyond the gates, they discover more than just remarkable edible delights As they embark on an extraordinary journey through Willy Wonka’s marvellous mind, they soon learn that nobody leaves the same way that they arrived

Every ticket is GOLDEN, book yours today!

From £26

La traviata

Verdi

Always the belle of the ball, Violetta, the most elegant courtesan in all of Paris, has her choice of wealthy admirers falling at her feet She lives for the glamorous lifestyle of high society, but when she finds herself deeply in love with the penniless aristocratic poet Alfredo, she is willing to give everything up for him Can she be accepted just as a woman who has fallen in love, or is she to remain a ‘fallen woman ’ whose love has no future?

Based on Alexandre Dumas fils’s novel, La Dame aux Camélias, Verdi’s timeless opera features some of the most evocative arias and melodies including the instantly recognisable Brindisi (the drinking song) and the beautifully poignant finale, Addio del passato

Elegant and highly charged, WNO’s five-star production will leave you in no doubt why this heart-wrenching tale of thwarted love, scandal and self-sacrifice makes La traviata a favourite with audiences across the world

Touch Tour

Thu 9 Nov 6 pm

Audio Described

Thu 9 Nov 7 30 pm

Sung in Italian, with English surtitles

Ainadamar

Fountain of Tears

Golijov

Ainadamar, Arabic for ‘Fountain of Tears’, is the ancient well near Granada where the Spanish poet and playwright Federico García Lorcalabelled by the Falangist militia as a ‘homosexual socialist’ - was brutally executed in 1936 during the Spanish Civil War

Golijov’s twice-Grammy-winning opera reimagines Lorca’s life through a flashback of memories by his muse and collaborator, the actress Margarita Xirgu, now in her final moments in 1969 Uruguay, as she seeks to pass her generation’s hopes and passion on to her student, Nuria

Ainadamar promises a spine-tingling spectacle from the Olivier-winning star choreographer Deborah Colker (Rio 2016 Olympics Ceremony; Cirque du Soleil) in her much-anticipated operatic debut in the director’s seat

The result is a dazzling kaleidoscope of music, dance, and theatre where flamenco meets opera through traditional Spanish singing and sumptuous operatic numbers, all interspersed with rhythmic, sonic, and poetic outbursts

FREE Pre-Show Talk

Tue 7 Nov 6 30 pm

Please book in advance

wno org uk/ainadamar #WNOainadamar

Sung in Spanish, with English surtitles

Play Opera Live! Space Spectacular

Travel through the depths of space on a musical voyage that is out of this world!

Experience extra-terrestrial activity, learn fun facts, and orbit the incredible world of opera and classical music with Welsh National Opera’s space-themed interactive and educational family show that’s suitable for all ages

Navigating the expedition is the stellar Tom Redmond, who will have you singing, dancing, and clapping along to some of our favourite pieces from stage and screen including Steve Pickett’s Party on Planet Sum Zee from Alien Dances from the Planet Zog, Sunrise from Richard Strauss’ Also Sprach Zarathustra and Howard’s Fly Me To The Moon

A WNO family experience wouldn’t be complete without free foyer activities Transform into an alien at the face painting station, enjoy an intergalactic treasure hunt, and more from 1 30 pm

wno.org.uk/playoperalive

The Nutcracker

Sir Peter Wright’s world-famous production of the classic Christmas tale returns to Birmingham Hippodrome’s stage this November.

Join Clara at her family’s Christmas party and as she sets off on a thrilling adventure through an enchanting winter wonderland of dancing snowflakes into the magical land of the Sugar Plum Fairy…

Following its 2022 refurbishment, Sir Peter Wright’s classic production is looking better than ever. Book now to secure the best seats at the best prices for this annual sell-out show and start looking forward to some festive fun with family and friends.

“ No other version comes close”

The Sunday Times

“ Delivers the wow-factor year on year”

Birmingham Post

“ Ballet doesn’t come much more Christmassy than Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Nutcracker”

The Guardian

Jack and the Beanstalk

Fe-fi-fo-fum, a giant of a panto full of fun!

Birmingham’s own Alison Hammond stars in the UK’s biggest regional panto, alongside Hippodrome favourite Matt Slack back for a 10th year; and star of stage and screen Samantha Womack They are joined by Doreen Tipton as Doreen the Cow, panto dame extraordinaire Andrew Ryan and Brummie local Alexanda O’Reilly as the title role

Doomed to sell his trusty cow, join Jack and his family as they fight to outwit the evil giant and win riches beyond their wildest dreams Featuring stunning sets and costumes from The London Palladium, and bundle-loads of laughter, this is the panto you’ve bean waiting for!

“ An absolute must-see extravaganza if you fancy a fantastic and fun-filled trip to the theatre”

What’s On

“ It’s glitzy, it’s spectacular, it’s funny and it’s hugely entertaining”

The Reviews Hub

“ The Hippodrome knows how to do world class panto”

Black Country Radio

From £19

Pantomime is loud for a small pair of ears, Spectacular sights can sometimes cause tears!

If bringing a little one, please be aware

One or two scenes are intended to scare.

The odd naughty joke for grown-up laughter

Ensures that we all finish Happily Ever After.

Discounts

From £17.50

Family Activities

For shows aimed specifically at young children, we often offer activities before and/or after the performance, including dressing up and crafts for families to enjoy together.

Food & Drink

The Circle Lounge offers a Children’s Afternoon Tea for matinees and a Children’s menu for evening performances The Coffee Bar provides a range of child-friendly snacks and drinks. Please see our menu boards or ask staff for our current options

For information about child and baby tickets, age guidance, baby changing facilities and more, see our Family Friendly Facilities page at birminghamhippodrome.com/familyfriendly

Bluey’s Big Play

When Dad feels like a little bit of Sunday afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans! Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag.

Bluey’s Big Play is a brand-new theatrical adaptation of the Emmy® award-winning children’s television series, with an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, and new music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush

Join the Heelers in their first live theatre show made just for you, featuring brilliantly created puppets, this is Bluey as you ’ ve never seen it before, brought to real life in this UK premiere

Bluey’s Big Play is produced by Andrew Kay and Cuffe & Taylor with Windmill Theatre Co for BBC Studios

“A glorious celebration of everything you love about the show”

The Guardian

All ages welcome Babes in arms (18 months and under) welcome, but please book a seat Children 18 months+ must have a valid ‘paid’ ticket

Discounts

Access Friends Families

S Schools

We are always working to provide the best facilities for our little visitors, creating a magical experience for them (and their grown ups).

Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures Edward Scissorhands

Matthew Bourne’s magical dance production of Edward Scissorhands has carved a place in the hearts of audiences worldwide since its premiere in 2005

Based on the classic Tim Burton movie and featuring the hauntingly beautiful music of Danny Elfman and Terry Davies, Bourne and his New Adventures Company return to this witty, bittersweet story of an incomplete boy left alone in a strange new world

In a castle high on a hill lives Edward; a boy created by an eccentric inventor When his creator dies, he is left alone and unfinished with only scissors for hands until a kindly townswoman invites him to live with her suburban family Can Edward find his place in the wellmeaning community which struggles to see past his curious appearance to the innocence and gentleness within?

“Enchanting. The perfect treat for all the family”

The Times

“Visually arresting and ceaselessly inventive A mountain of eye candy!”

Metro

“Truly magical A show for lovers of dance, musicals, films and everything in between”

The Scotsman

GALA EVENING

From £25

Half-Term Treat

Life of Pi

Based on the best-selling book by Yann Martel, the five-star hit show comes to Birmingham Hippodrome.

Winner of five Olivier Awards, including Best New Play! After conquering the West End and Broadway, the five-star “theatrical phenomenon” (The Telegraph) embarks on its biggest adventure yet.

Jaw-dropping visuals and world-class puppetry combine in a unique and “breath-taking” (The Times) theatrical event that is “a wonder to behold” (Daily Mail).

After an epic storm in the Pacific Ocean, Pi is stranded on a lifeboat with four other survivors - a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger.

Based on the global phenomenon and winner of the Man Booker Prize, selling over fifteen million copies worldwide, Life of Pi is the hugely popular story of an epic journey of endurance and hope. Don’t miss the West End and Broadway spectacle on its first ever UK tour

EXTRA PERFORMANCE FOR HALF TERM!

“Everything about this production is amazing”

Sunday Times

“ Breath-taking. Roar it out: this is a hit”

The Observer

“The puppetry is out of this world”

Mail on Sunday

Our second stage, the Patrick Studio, is our 200 seat flexible studio theatre space.

It’s the place to go this season for hilarious improv, stunning dance, thought-provoking drama and opera, and a first visit to the theatre for your little ones.

Take a look at the next few pages for what’s on in this exciting space over the next few months.

Jumprov!

Created in Birmingham, Jumprov is proudly the UK’s first Black and Brown Improv group Every performance is made up entirely on the spot with suggestions from you, the audience One minute you may be watching your first date re-enacted as a TED Talk and the next you’ll be plunged into the middle of a rap battle based on that week’s headlines - nobody knows exactly what might happen, and that’s the fun!

Not sure what to expect? Think shows like Mock the Week or Whose Line Is It Anyway? but with a signature Midlands twist!

History in the MakingA Black History Special

History in The Making is an educational yet empowering journey through Black History brought to you by G A P Entertainment

This family-friendly production takes audiences on a trip down the black history timeline, presented through drama, spoken word, dance and music performances; highlighting notable historical figures, traditional African culture, Caribbean influences and Black British impacts on society, past, present and future

Thu 7 45pm From

£10

The Good Enough Mums Club

Not perfect? Join the club! Toddle through the highs, lows and sleep deprivation of motherhood with the world premiere of the hilarious new musical The Good Enough Mums Club

Five women thrown together by motherhood, overcome their isolation, loneliness, judgment and perfectionism to discover that they’re stronger as a group than as individuals, and that sometimes, being good enough is best

This hysterical, heart-breaking and honest new musical written, produced, directed, and performed by mothers is capturing the attention of critics, parents and non-parents alike throughout the country

The Good Enough Mums Club is an associate company of Birmingham Hippodrome

Sonia Sabri Company

Roshni

Roshni, from the Persian word meaning light or brilliance, is a beautifully intimate crafting of dance and live music, transporting and uplifting the audience on a journey of joy.

World-class artists Sonia Sabri and Sarvar Sabri, alongside an ensemble of skilled musicians ranging from South Asia, Middle East and Eastern Europe, present a soul-stirring, captivating combination of Kathak dance, with live music and vocals, driven by the bold rhythms of Tabla percussion.

Roshni brings together Sonia’s distinctive style of dance, rooted in the traditions of Kathak from Northern India, yet reimagined in the context of her lived British experience.

Birmingham Royal Ballet presents

Freefalling for 21 years

‘Still Life’ at the Freefall Café

Freefall Dance Company celebrates 21 years of entertaining, inspiring performances and of impacting attitudes towards learning disabled performers

Freefall’s latest delightful and entertaining dance piece takes inspiration from David Bintley’s ‘Still Life’ at the Penguin Café.

With students from Fox Hollies School, Hazel Oak Sixth Form, Uffculme School, All Saints Youth Group and Reddi Support

Freefall 21st Anniversary Exhibition

10 Nov - 11 Feb, Birmingham Hippodrome

Through photos, film and testimony, get to know the dancers, learn about the company ’ s history and discover how Freefall represents BRB’s values - creative to the core; devoted to brilliance; diverse and different; full of heart

75th Anniversary UK Tour Women of the Windrush

An opera by Shirley J. Thompson

Through mesmerising music and seamlessly woven archival and film footage, Shirley J Thompson’s celebratory opera, Women of the Windrush, portrays inspirational narratives from the lives of women who travelled to the UK from the West Indies between the 1940 s and the 1960 s, when persons from those countries were invited by the British government to assist in the rebuilding of post-war Britain.

The stage work is a re-imagining of Thompson’s film, Memories in Mind: Women of the Windrush Tell Their Stories (1992, British Film Institute) The renowned Birmingham-based soprano, Abigail Kelly, leads the performance

“A gripping work celebrating human community and resilience”

Opera Magazine

Dear Santa

Santa is determined to deliver the most fantastic Christmas present to Sarah, but he doesn’t get it right straight away! With the help of his cheeky Elf, he finally settles on something ‘perfect’, just in time for Christmas Eve

From the author of the well-loved children’s book Dear Zoo, Rod Campbell, comes Dear Santa and it’s LIVE! This show is an ideal introduction to theatre for those aged two and over

The Christmas cheer continues with the opportunity to meet Santa in his grotto after the show, where every child will receive an extra special gift!

“Magical family treat and a joy to watch” Mumsnet

Dear Zoo Live!

Dear Zoo the timeless children’s classic book returns to the stage!

See our characters write to the Zoo Who will be delivered? A cheeky monkey, a jumpy frog and of course a perfect puppy

Rod Campbell’s best-selling lift the flap book has delighted generations of young readers since it was first published in 1982 And has sold more than 8 million copies worldwide

This production will delight all those who have read the book (both young and old) as it unfolds with child-engaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction

“A must-see for fans of the book, and for any young child who likes animals!” whatsgoodtodo.co.uk

Tue – Sat 7 30pm Thu & Sat 2pm

From £25

Prices and discounts subject to change (see p44)

The Sleeping Beauty

Age Guidance 5+

Class on Stage Sat 2 Mar 11am - tbc

Pre-Show Talk

Fri 23 Feb 6 30 pm

Free to ticket holders

Touch Tour Sat 24 Feb 12 30 pmtbc

Audio Described Sat 24 Feb 2pm

Discounts

Access Families Groups S Schools

Cursed by a wicked fairy, a beautiful princess pricks her finger and falls into a deep sleep that can only be broken by true love’s kiss

The Sleeping Beauty has been delighting audiences for well over a hundred years, sprinkling ballet magic on this favourite childhood story and its cast of familiar characters And all wrapped up with sparkling virtuoso dance from BRB's brilliant dancers, fairy-tale characters, dazzling spectacle, and Tchaikovsky's glorious music played live by the acclaimed Royal Ballet Sinfonia

BRB’s beautiful production was created by Sir Peter Wright, the genius behind the Company’s famous The Nutcracker and Swan Lake

Sleeping Beauty Dreams Sun 25 Feb, 7pm

Join ballet students of all ages as they take to the Birmingham Hippodrome stage for a performance of Sleeping Beauty Dreams, sharing the spotlight with two of BRB’s world-class dancers

An enchanting experience for all the family. Book early to secure the best seats!

Mail on Sunday

“The treat of a lifetime ”

Birmingham Post

“ Everything you could possibly want from Petipa’s masterpiece”

Financial Times

“ Fairytale characters and dazzling spectacle”

Express & Star

If you love ballet and appreciate the amazing depth of talent in and around the West Midlands, don’t miss what will be an exciting and heartwarming performance

Tickets from £16 50

Wicked

“One of the most successful musicals of all time” (BBC News), Wicked has been casting its magical spell around the world for two decades.

Based on the acclaimed novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked imagines a beguiling backstory and future possibilities to the lives of L. Frank Baum’s beloved characters from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and reveals the decisions and events that shape the destinies of two unlikely university friends on their journey to becoming Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.

Mar 7 Apr

See p46-47 for performance times

From £28

Prices and discounts subject to change (see p44)

This award-winning musical flies back to Birmingham complete with all the spectacle and magic that make this “lavish, thrilling production” (Hereford Times) such an unforgettable and unmissable experience

“ An epic adventure brought to life by superb scenery, innovative effects and superb acting”

Birmingham Mail

Age Guidance 7+

Captioned Thu 14 Mar 7 30 pm

BSL Interpreted Sat 16 Mar 2 30 pm

Audio Described Sat 16 Mar 2 30 pm

Discounts Access Friends Groups S Schools

Mehek is an enchanting exploration of the human heart - its desires, courages, and resiliences - masterfully brought to life by the artistry of Aakash Odedra and Aditi Mangaldas, the great South Asian dancers of their respective generations

This captivating performance gives a voice to an unspoken and overlooked love story Centred around a mature woman and a younger man, the dance delves deep into their intricate characters, challenging norms and redefining the very essence of love.

Derived from the Hindi word for fragrance, the title alludes to the enduring power of memory and the essence of love itself Aditi Mangaldas, dancing the first ever duet of her 50-year career, and Aakash Odedra weave a narrative that celebrates love in all its forms: raw, authentic, and infinitely resonant

Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch

The Musical Parody

Disney villain. Octo-woman. Plus-size icon.

Fresh from complete sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe and around the UK, comes this critically acclaimed hit parody musical Unfortunate is back in Birmingham - bigger and bolder - and things are gonna get wet.

Join everyone’s favourite Disney Diva, Ursula, as she gives her take on what really happened all those years ago under the sea. With an original hot pop soundtrack and trademark filthy humour, it’s time to take the plunge and dive into this year’s hottest night out.

Cruella told her side, and Maleficent’s had her moment Now the legendary queer queen is ready to spill, in this tell-all tale of sex, sorcery and suckers.

Fat Rascal is an associate company of Birmingham Hippodrome

“

Broadway Baby

“Phenomenal. Can I give this show 6 stars!?”

North West End

“Laugh out loud funny”

Manchester Evening News

Unstoppable, mesmerising genius. A strictly not-for-kids classic”

From £25

The Drifters Girl

Direct from the West End, The Drifters Girl comes to Birmingham Hippodrome as part of a major UK & Ireland tour

Nominated for BEST NEW MUSICAL at the 2022 Olivier Awards, this smashhit show has audiences on their feet night after night with a phenomenal soundtrack packed full of iconic Drifters hits including Saturday Night At The Movies, Save The Last Dance For Me and Stand By Me

Discover the remarkable story of The Drifters and the truth about the woman who made them From the highs of hit records to the lows of legal battles and personal tragedy, Faye Treadwell was the legendary manager of The Drifters who refused to give up on the group she loved.

Thirty years, and hundreds of hit songs later, there is no doubt that Faye Treadwell was and always will be, The Drifters Girl

“An extraordinarily enjoyable night out The Drifters Girl is hard to beat”

WhatsOnStage

“Joyful”

Daily Mail

“Hit after hit in this sensational show”

Smooth Radio

“A must-see”

Daily Star

Jesus Christ Superstar

AN ALBUM THAT INSPIRED A REVOLUTION A REVELATION THAT CHANGED THE WORLD. A REINVENTION FOR THIS MILLENNIUM

Timothy Sheader (Crazy for You, Into the Woods) directs this mesmerizing new production of the iconic global phenomenon Jesus Christ Superstar which comes to Birmingham Hippodrome for one week only.

Originally staged by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, this reimagined production won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival, garnering unprecedented reviews and accolades

Choreographed by Drew McOnie (King Kong, Strictly Ballroom), with music and lyrics by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, Jesus Christ Superstar is

£26

set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and Superstar.

“A gorgeous, thrilling, heavenly musical”

The Guardian

“An adrenaline-pumping production”

The New York Times

“Hallelujah! An almighty revelation”

The Telegraph

Discounts Access Friends Groups S Schools

From £26

42nd Street

It’s big it’s bright it’s a brandspanking new production of ‘the original showbiz musical,’ 42nd Street!

Jonathan Church (Singin’ In The Rain, The Drifters Girl) directs the iconic song-and-dance spectacular featuring a hit parade of toe-tapping songs including 42nd Street, We’re In The Money, Lullaby of Broadway, Shuffle Off To Buffalo and I Only Have Eyes For You.

Choreographed and designed by Olivier Award winners Bill Deamer and Rob Jones, 42nd Street is a timeless and inspiring showbiz fairy tale that

combines breathtaking tap dance routines, backstage intrigue, classic romance and delightful comedy to dazzling effect.

“A musical extravaganza that will knock your socks off”

ArtsDesk

“The dance sequences here are every bit as sensational as you would hope”

All That Dazzles

Così fan tutte

Mozart

What does love teach you?

Welsh National Opera takes you back to school with a brand-new production of Mozart’s comic opera Così fan tutte aka The School for Lovers directed by Max Hoehn (The Consul) Set in the early 1970 s, four sixth formers discover that falling in love can be incredible, awkward, and complicated in this coming-of-age tale

Death in Venice

Britten

Would you pursue love for inspiration?

In the search for beauty and meaning, the renowned author Gustav von Aschenbach travels to Venice on a whim In the sultry atmosphere of a cholera epidemic, with the scirocco blowing, he falls in love with Tadzio, a youthful aristocrat who is staying in the same hotel with his family As Aschenbach projects his loneliness and desire on him, fantasy and imagination intermingle with existence. His obsession progresses to a fever pitch as he becomes increasingly divorced from reality.

Inspired by the original Thomas Mann novella, Britten’s magnificently atmospheric opera, Death in Venice, comes to life in this new production from WNO, creating images of ravishing beauty, as well as exploring the grotesque hidden beneath the search for the sublime. As poetic worlds of the imagination collide with reality, the early 20 th century acts as a mirror to our times.

Discounts Access Groups

S Schools

Discounts Access Groups

S Schools

The students are given a valuable lesson in love, life and liberty when their teacher involves them in a secret experiment Played out to some of Mozart’s most ravishing music, they are challenged to re-think their own identities and relationships with each other as they are confronted with a series of amusing scenarios designed to deceive wno.org.uk/venice

As a unique independent charity, we receive no regular funding and ticket sales make up nearly 90% of our income Each year we reach over 500,000 people with our world class productions across our stages, and a further 450,000 young people, vulnerable adults and families through free or low cost education programmes, festivals and theatre, including our popular relaxed performances.

1899 Club

Join our growing regular-giving ‘family’. From just £10 each month, you can help us pass on the magic of theatre and live performance for many more years to come

birminghamhippodrome.com/1899Club

Gifts in Wills

from £50 per year

Leave a Gift to the theatre in your Will to help create generations of joy. Watch our short film at birminghamhippodrome.com/legacy to find out how a special experience inspired one supporter to leave a Gift Your Gift, however small, will make a difference

Name a Seat

Take a seat in our magnificent auditorium and make it your own - perfect for a special occasion gift For a suggested minimum donation of £250 you can help support our transformational work because Arts Matter!

birminghamhippodrome.com/nameaseat

Sister Act The Musical

Brace yourselves sisters - the habit is returning to Birmingham Hippodrome!

Don’t miss this second chance to see the brand new production of the Broadway and UK smash-hit musical Sister Act direct from London

Disco diva Deloris’ life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder Placed under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she shouldn’t be found - a convent! Encouraged to help the struggling choir, she helps her fellow sisters find their true voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

Featuring original music by Tony® and 8-time Oscar® award-winner Alan Menken (Disney’s Aladdin, Enchanted) and songs inspired by Motown, soul and disco, this heavenly musical is joyous and uplifting in equal measures. A musical sent from above, Sister Act is the brilliant, must-see show which raises the spirits and warms the soul time after time.

“A heavenly revival” Independent

From £25

Come From Away

7,000 Stranded Passengers One Small Town A Remarkable True Story

Winner of four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical in London and the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical on Broadway, this smash hit show shares the incredible real-life story of the 7,000 air passengers from all over the world who were grounded in Canada during the wake of 9/11, and the small Newfoundland community that invited these ‘come from aways’ into their lives with open hearts

Experience this joyous story and soaring music as spirited locals and global passengers come together to forge friendships that will stay with them forever. The first female American Airlines captain, the quickthinking town mayor, the mother of a

New York firefighter and the eager local news reporter are among the many real characters caught at the start of the moment that changed the course of history and whose stories became a true celebration of hope, humanity and unity.

Tony Award-winning director Christopher Ashley alongside Olivier Award-winning writers Irene Sankoff and David Hein bring this uplifting true story to the stage in a life-affirming production that has audiences on their feet night after night.

“ One of the best musicals of the century” The Times

The Wizard of Oz

Direct from The London Palladium, the sensational new production of one of the world’s most beloved musicals comes to Birmingham Hippodrome.

Featuring the iconic original score from the Oscar-winning MGM film including Over The Rainbow, Follow The Yellow Brick Road and We’re Off To See The Wizard with additional songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, this spectacular production of The Wizard of Oz will be a truly magical experience for all the family

Join

There’s no place like Birmingham Hippodrome next summer

Birmingham Hippodrome.

Young Advocates (Ages 14-23)

Launched in 2021, this programme selects a group of young people from the West Midlands each year to help shape the Hippodrome’s work with, and for, young people.

Young Advocates work closely with us to programme and produce events for young people including the Young Community Drop-Ins and a young people’s stage at Birmingham Weekender. They also receive training, mentoring and access to a range of different opportunities within the arts industry

Young Community Drop-In Sessions (Ages 14+)

These free sessions have been designed to be creative outlets for young people and offer spaces to relax, connect with others and feel welcome Each drop-in session invites some of the best people currently working in the creative industries to host workshops looking at a range of art forms, skills and careers, and are open to all levels and abilities

Musicals Youth Theatre (Juniors aged 7-11, Seniors aged 12-16)

£100

per term (bursaries available)

Our popular Musicals Youth Theatre meets every Saturday and is led industry professionals Inspired by both popular classics and contemporary musicals, the groups are open to all abilities, developing skills in singing, dancing and acting and working towards public performances in our Patrick Studio Participants also get opportunities to work with our Associate Artists and visiting companies

There are lots of different ways you can get involved at

SIX

The crowning glory of Broadway, the West End and beyond, the international smash hit musical SIX makes its royal return to Birmingham following multiple previous sell-out successes!

Winner of 26 major international awards including the Tony Award for ‘Best Original Score’ and ‘Best Costume Design’, double winner of the Whatsonstage Award for ‘Best West End Show’ and a Gold-Disk winning album, this sell-out Tudor take-off has “an incredibly strong and powerful message” (The Australian) and is “pure entertainment” (New York Times).

From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st

century girl power These Queens may have green sleeves but their lipstick is rebellious red.

Think you know the rhyme, think again... Divorced. Beheaded. LIVE!

“The most uplifting new British musical I have ever had the privilege to watch”

Evening Standard

“ Exhilarating entertainment from six killer Queens. They will, they will rock you!”

Daily Express

“ A royal treat”

The Telegraph

Mon – Sat 7 30pm

Wed 2pm Sat 2 30pm

From £28

Prices and discounts subject to change (see p44)

Hamilton

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s multi awardwinning cultural phenomenon Hamilton is touring the UK and Ireland for the very first time and is coming to Birmingham Hippodrome for a ten week season in summer 2024

Hamilton is the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and helped shape the very foundations of the America we know today. The score blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway - the story of America then, as told by America now

Hamilton has book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, is directed by Thomas Kail, with choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire and is based on Ron Chernow’s biography of Alexander Hamilton.

Winner of 11 Tony Awards including Best Musical, 7 Olivier Awards, the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 2016 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album

thank you

...to all our supporters - major donors, patrons, sponsors, corporate patrons, and Trusts & Foundations - for helping us to create opportunities for everyone to access the arts.

Major Gifts

Gifts in Wills

Hippodrome Circle Patrons

Headline Act Patrons

Leading Role Patrons

Supporting Cast Patrons

1899 Club Founder Members

Curtain Raiser Circle

We hope you share our belief in the value of arts and culture for communities here in the West Midlands and will help us bring our charitable ambitions to life. Because Arts Matter! To

We

Development Partners

Trusts & Foundations

Performance Partners

Associate Partners

Good Company Club

Sponsors and Project Partners

We’re looking forward to welcoming you…

It’s easy to find us

Main entrance address

Hurst St, Southside, Birmingham, B5 4TB.

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We are easy to find and centrally located. Please see parkopedia.com for details of car parks nearby.

Check Transport for West Midlands (tfwm.org.uk) for public transport routes, or call Traveline on 0871 200 2233 (fees may apply). New Street and Moor Street train stations are close and well signposted. Many bus routes and the West Midlands Metro pass nearby, and we are well-served by taxi ranks.

Tickets are sold for the use of the buyer only (and their party) and are not to be resold under any circumstances. We reserve the right to cancel tickets and refuse entry without refund if this condition is breached.

How to book

You can book or reserve tickets, become a Friend, reserve a table in our lounges, make a donation or ask us a question.

• Tickets and information 0844 338 5000 (calls cost 4.5p per min plus your phone company’s access charge).

• Our ticket sales counter at the theatre opens no later than 1 hour prior to a performance and closes 30 minutes after the show starts. It is closed on non-performance days.

• Our ticket sales phone lines are open 10am – 6pm Mon – Fri. They are closed on weekends and bank holidays.

• Choose your own seats online (to a maximum of nine tickets per performance): birminghamhippodrome.com

• Select your own seats may not be available on busy onsale days to help manage website demand.

• Organise a group booking on 0844 338 7000 (calls cost 4.5p per min plus your phone company’s access charge). Mon – Fri, 10am – 5pm.

• We offer a post-purchase enquiries only line on 0121 689 1070

• For enquiries about accessibility, please use the Access phone line on 0121 689 1060

NB: For staff training and maintenance, sometimes change our opening hours, and occasionally we monitor calls.

Payment

• We accept most major credit and debit cards. We don’t accept American Express. After payment, we’ll send e-tickets no later than 2 weeks before a performance date unless booked within that period.

• We don’t accept SOLT Theatre Tokens, but you can buy and redeem our own Birmingham Hippodrome Gift Vouchers.

• Please note we are now a cashless venue.

Privacy Policy

We regularly update our privacy policy to comply with the latest regulations. You can change your preferences at any time by contacting us online, by post or by phone. See birminghamhippodrome.com/privacypolicy.

Conditions of sale

Full terms and conditions are available at birminghamhippodrome.com or you can call us on 0844 338 5000* and just ask one of our friendly team.

Booking Protect

We offer refund protection on your booking through our partners Booking Protect; allowing you to apply for a full refund on your order should anyone in your party be unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances. Protection covers injury, illness, travel trouble and unexpected events. Full details can be found in the terms and conditions on our website.

A note on ticket prices, discounts and charges

• All ticket prices listed in this brochure and elsewhere are subject to change at any time.

• In response to demand we may adapt prices, seating areas and discounting, and availability of concessions or discounts may be limited at our discretion.

• Check online at birminghamhippodrome.com or call us on 0844 338 5000* for current prices.

• Tickets for selected events may include a levy retained by Birmingham Hippodrome.

• We will always endeavour to keep discounts as generous as possible so that no bookers are at a disadvantage. Discounts

Children

We want our productions to be enjoyed by everyone, but very young children can get bored or easily upset by special effects. This is why, unless otherwise stated, we don’t admit children under 3 into our main house performances. See individual show pages or the website for more detailed age guidance.

For family shows, young children are welcome and we indicate any terms or prices for babes in arms (18 months and under). Please book babes in arms in advance. Everyone admitted to the theatre needs a ticket. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult so we know they are safe.

Access Registration Scheme

We are pleased to have launched our brand new Access Registration scheme in partnership with Nimbus Disability allowing online booking for the first time alongside our phone service. Nimbus Disability is a social enterprise run by and for disabled people.

Registering is a three-step process, valid for three years and is completely free. This scheme will enable you to:

• Book wheelchair spaces online as well as by phone

• Book in essential companions online as well as by phone

• Have easier access to the most appropriate seats for captioned, BSL interpreted and audio-described performances on an interactive seat map

• View all discounts available to you online

Find out more and register at birminghamhippodrome.com/ accessregistration

Access

• Assisted Performances: for dates of relaxed, audiodescribed, captioned or BSL interpreted performances, please see the show pages or refer to the diary (p46-47).

Touch Tours usually take place on the same days as audio-described performances. Times are confirmed 2-3 weeks in advance. Visit birminghamhippodrome.com/access or call our Access phone line on 0121 689 1060 for details.

• Visually-impaired: Guide dogs are very welcome in the theatre and can be looked after by staff during performances. Should you require a seat close to entrances, please ask when booking. Please book your guide dog in with Ticket Sales in advance of your visit.

• Deaf, deafened and hard-of-hearing: if you’d like a receiver, just ask at the Access Assistance Desk, located at our main entrance.

• Impaired mobility: Automatic doors and lifts are available and we have wheelchair positions in our main auditorium and Patrick Studio. We have accessible unisex and ambulant disabled toilets on all levels and in The Circle Lounge, plus low-level counter service.

• Please let us know when booking your ticket if you need any additional help with your visit.

Toilet facilities

To ensure everyone’s welcome at Birmingham Hippodrome, in common with an increasing number of public places, we’ve introduced all gender toilets on Level 4. We also have accessible toilets, family friendly toilets and baby-changing facilities available for all genders. Designated Male toilets and Female toilets are still available and easily accessible on all other floors.

Enjoy your next visit!

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this information, changes may occur.

vary, cannot be combined nor applied retrospectively, and may be restricted or limited. They are generally available on presentation of valid ID, and our range includes: 18 and under or 65+, full-time students, selected Hippodrome memberships, benefits claimants, groups of 8+ or 10+ upwards, school and youth groups, those with access needs, plus occasional early booking discounts or special offers.

• Charges vary with other agents selling on our behalf. We regularly use Ticketmaster and other well-known agents. You are advised to check their charges when booking.

• We have several 0844 telephone numbers. *Calls cost 4.5p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

Stalls Stage

Please note: This diagram is a guide and not an accurate representation of seating positions. Stalls Rows A – D are not used for Opera and Ballet performances. Other variations may apply due to technical reasons. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this information, changes may occur.

Artistic Director & Chief Executive Officer: Jon Gilchrist

Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre Trust Limited

Registered Charity No. 510842

Due to potentially restricted views of the stage and the technical requirements of specific productions, boxes may be unavailable to purchase. They are often made available for sale closer to the time over the phone only. If you would like to enquire about a box for a specific performance, please contact us on 0844 338 5000*.

Pop me on your fridge!

Nov

Jan

Feb

We understand the disappointment of not being able to attend an event, so we have partnered with Booking Protect to offer the world’s most flexible and comprehensive refund protection cover.

By selecting Booking Protect when you buy your tickets, you will be able to apply for a full refund in the event that you or a member of your party is unable to attend one of our performances

To read the terms and conditions and see full details of your refund protection go to birminghamhippodrome.com/bookingprotect

Hippodrome Patrons

from £27.50 per month

Hippodrome Patrons play a vital role in sustaining our charitable commitments, helping us to create opportunities for everyone to access the arts Get behind-the-scenes, be a part of special events, be the first to know about and book premium seats for sell-out shows, enjoy discounts and make use of our luxury VIP Proscenium Lounge. You’ll become part of the Hippodrome ‘family’ and help us achieve our ambitions because Arts Matter!

Hippodrome Friends

from £50 per year

If you’re passionate about theatre and want to enjoy a host of exclusive benefits such as priority booking, great savings on tickets and discounts on food and drinks - become our Friend today!

Hippodrome Creatives Card

Are you an artist, producer or creative living or working in Birmingham and the West Midlands? We want to make sure that the creative talent of our region is able to develop, thrive, and make careers from a base at Birmingham Hippodrome. You can benefit from free rehearsal space, space to work and meet in, ticket offers and masterclasses!

If you have a passion for unforgettable performance and want to enjoy exclusive perks and discounts we ’ ve got just the ticket.

If undelivered, please return to Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre Trust Ltd, Hurst Street, Southside, Birmingham, B5 4TB

This mailing was sent to you as an existing customer of Birmingham Hippodrome (registered charity 510842) under the Legitimate Interests lawful basis. For further information please see our privacy policy online. To opt-out from future mailings, please contact dataprotection@birminghamhippodrome.com

Tickets & Information 0844 338 5000 *

Group Bookings 0844 338 7000*

Administration 0844 338 5010*

Events 0844 338 6500*

birminghamhippodrome.com

Registered Charity Number 510842

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