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WHAT’S ON GUIDE AUTUMN / WINTER 2015

FOOD@ THE MERCURY Open for food or drinks

Continental breakfasts

Afternoon teas

Pre-show meals

10am til late

Lunches

Early evening set menus

Daily specials

Complete your visit with a pre-show meal. Three course set menu just ÂŁ15.95!

Menus online at www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 2

For daily specials and bookings, call 01206 368100

WELCOME Can it possibly be the case that panto time is here again? My vocal chords have barely recovered from shouting “they’re behind you!” at Cinderella. Yes, this year’s festive treat Aladdin is just around the corner, and there’s a lot more to celebrate before we release the genie from the lamp. Our new-look Studio Theatre reopens with a Made in Colchester production of Bully Boy by Sandi Toskvig, an intense and enthralling look at the lasting mental health effects of war. Ahead of Bully Boy there are also a couple of opportunities to preview the new Studio as we welcome local touring company Eastern Angles with Parkway Dreams, and our own half-term treat – Not Now Bernard. Made in Colchester will hit the road this year, with a brand new musical comedy featuring the music of Irving Berlin, The Smallest Show on Earth, which opens in September ahead of a UK-wide tour. Following national outings for The Butterfly Lion, Dial M for Murder and Betty Blue Eyes, we’re thrilled to once again be taking the very best theatre made in Essex to audiences across the UK. The Mousetrap and Jeeves and Wooster also stop off here in Colchester this season – two touring shows which have wowed audiences everywhere they’ve been.

Following the installation of a new air-cooling system in our Main Theatre, we’re delighted to be open for business this August with a fantastic new production of James and the Giant Peach – great fun for all ages, and a chance to cool off during what I hope will be a long hot summer! Finally, I’m particularly thrilled that we are taking part in MonologueSlam UK - the first time this cutting edge event, which has launched several prominent acting careers, has come to Colchester. If you are looking for your big break, this could be it. Enjoy the season!

Daniel Buckroyd Artistic Director

Wherever you see a FRIENDS FIRST star, the show opens for priority booking to Friends of the Mercury from 10am on Wednesday 24 June, and goes on general sale 10am on Wednesday 1 July. Become a Friend from £26 to book the best seats and support the work of the Mercury! See page 29, click Support Us on our website FRIENDS www.mercurytheatre.co.uk FIRST or call 01206 573948 Book from 24 June

Director Matthew Cullum Designer Trina Bramman Musical Director Richard Reeday Lighting Designer Mark Dymock Sound Designer Marcus Christensen

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2015 4

FAMILY DRAMA

FRI 07 – SUN 30 AUG Performance times pages 34 & 35 After James spills a bag of magic on an old peach tree, he watches in amazement as the tree grows a peach so humongous it’s almost as big as a house! Inside this magical peach James meets the best (and most unusual!) friends a boy could have – five larger than life garden bugs! Together, James and his newfound friends roll away in the enchanted peach and set out on the adventure of a lifetime. And the best part? You’re coming too! The action bursts out into the audience as you’re carried away by James and his pals in this fantastic summer holiday treat.

Cast includes: Kate Adams, Pete Ashmore, Josie Dunn, Barbara Hockaday, James Le Lacheur, Matthew Rutherford, Dale Superville

MAIN THEATRE Join us for a transatlantic voyage from the White Cliffs of Dover all the way to the Empire State Building.

Approximate running time 1hr 45minutes, including interval

Magical and musical, this stage adaptation of Roald Dahl’s juicy tale is directed by Matthew Cullum, whose production of Friend or Foe was a big hit with Mercury audiences last year. It’s sure to put big smiles on the faces of adults and children alike.

‘A heartwarming mix of fun, fruit and nuts’ The Daily Mail

Recommended for adults and families with children aged 6+yrs Ticket prices may change. Book early for the best deal!

ADD A PICNIC FOR £5!

Pre-order a little taste of summer with a picnic box from Food @ The Mercury and stretch out on our lawn before the show!

www.roalddahl.com www.davidwood.org.uk Children & Over 60s £10 RP

Wed 26 Aug

6pm

Relaxed Performance

Thu 27 Aug

12.30pm

Touch Tour

Thu 27 Aug

2pm

Audio Described

CAP

Sun 30 Aug

2pm

Captioned Performance

£22.50 - £10 & DISCOUNTS £12 PREVIEW PERFORMANCES 7 & 8 AUGUST, TICKET PRICES PAGES 30–33

DON’T HANG AROUND

L A V R E T IN DRINKSE CAN B ED PRE-ORDER

Did you know you can beat the rush for interval drinks and ice creams by placing your order at the bar or kiosk before the start of the performance? The service is free of charge. Your drinks and ice cream order will be ready for you outside the auditorium at the interval.

LIVE MUSIC

Barry Collings Entertainments present

EasyTheatres.com present

Fri 21 Aug

Fri 28 Aug

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Following the release of their brand new album That’s What Happens and a sold out arena tour with Status Quo, Chas and Dave bring their On The Road Tour to Colchester. Having been friends since the early 60s, now celebrating their 50th anniversary, Chas and Dave began writing and performing songs together in 1972. Popular hits include Gertcha, The Sideboard Song, Rabbit, Ain’t No Pleasing You, Margate, London Girls and Snooker Loopy. Having gained a cult audience of both young and old they’re back on tour due to public demand!

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Stars from West End smashes including Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera and The Producers present a two-hour feast of musical theatre’s greatest hits.

CHAS AND DAVE ON THE ROAD

MASTERS OF THE HOUSE SING THE MUSICALS

An all-new score for 2015 includes all-time favourites from Chicago, Evita, Joseph, Phantom, Rocky Horror, Wicked!, Miss Saigon, The Sound of Music, Blood Brothers, Jesus Christ Superstar, My Fair Lady, Grease, La Cage aux Folles, South Pacific, Little Shop of Horrors and more plus magical medleys from West Side Story, Mamma Mia! and Rodgers and Hammerstein. Culminating with the greatest musical of all time, Les Misérables, the West End comes to Colchester. www.easytheatres.com

£25 6

LIVE MUSIC

£25 - £10

LIVE MUSIC

TALK

Sweeney Entertainments present

JBA Concerts present

Lakin McCarthy present

Tue 1 Sep

Wed 2 Sep

Thu 3 Sep

MAIN THEATRE 8pm Ben’s portrayal of Michael Jackson in his prime has to be the most vocally and visually accurate tribute to the King of Pop to have ever toured UK theatres. Ben is joined on the stage by his incredible band and dancers who work their way through all the hits. He’s got the look, the moonwalk and the voice! His renditions of Thriller, Beat it and Billie Jean are truly sensational.

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Inspired by the King Oliver Creole Jazz Band, Chris formed his first band in 1949 at the age of nineteen and has since gone on to become not only Europe’s most successful and influential bandleader, but a bona fide jazz legend.

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Jay Rayner, award-winning journalist, writer and broadcaster, has been a restaurant critic for over a decade, and if there’s one thing he’s learnt it’s that people delight in reviews of bad restaurants. Here, he examines our love affair with lousy reviews, reads accounts of excruciating nights and looks at the worst reviews of his own work. Jay, recently voted Best Food and Drink Journalist in Britain, has been the Observer’s restaurant critic for over 12 years, resident food expert on The One Show, regular judge on MasterChef and chair of BBC Radio 4’s Kitchen Cabinet.

JACKSON LIVE IN CONCERT

Jackson Live in Concert features all-live vocals and superb musicians and dancers, fabulous costumes and of course all the signature dance moves associated so fondly with the undisputed King of Pop. Pure MJ!

£21

THE BIG CHRIS BARBER BAND

With his 10-piece band, featuring a 7-strong front line, Chris plays a selection of his favourite music: from his roots in New Orleans style in Bourbon Street Parade to the early music of Duke Ellington and Sidney Bechet ... before going back to When the Saints! The Big Chris Barber Band combine all these ingredients into an exciting and often moving evening of world-class jazz.

£25

JAY RAYNER MY DINING HELL

Contains mild swearing Recommended for 14+yrs

£22.50 - £10 7

LIVE MUSIC

EXTRA SHOW ADDED

WHITNEY QUEEN OF THE NIGHT

Maple Tree Entertainment Ltd present

Fri 4 Sep

Sat 5 Sep

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm A stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time. This award winning production features a stellar line-up with rising West End star Rebecca Freckleton delivering a breathtaking performance as Whitney. Taking us on a magical rollercoaster ride through three decades of classic hits that include I Wanna Dance With Somebody, One Moment in Time, I’m Every Woman, Greatest Love of All and many more, the show beautifully remembers the most highly awarded female artiste in the world.

MAIN THEATRE 2.30pm & 7.30pm Direct from its success in London’s West End, a sold out UK tour and standing ovations at every performance, The Simon and Garfunkel Story is back on the road! Using huge projection photos and original film footage, this 50th anniversary celebration also features a full live band performing all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more. Get your tickets fast as this is an evening not to be missed!

Get ready for the Queen of the Night!

‘Authentic and exciting’ The Stage

www.queenofthenight.co

www.thesimonandgarfunkelstory.com

£25

THE SIMON AND GARFUNKEL STORY

‘Fantastic’ BBC Radio 2

SAVE MONEY ON CAR PARKING

WHEN YOU BOOK AHEAD Park at St. Mary’s car park, or Middleborough car park when St. Mary’s is full

ADD A PARKING TICKET TO YOUR ORDER FOR JUST £1.50 ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL Please note you can no longer purchase discounted parking from us on the day.

MUSICAL

TALK

FRIENDS FIRST Book from 24 June

Colchester Operatic Society Second Edition (CO2) present

BIB Productions Ltd present

This 19 amateur production is presented by arrangement with Thu 10 - Sat Sep JOSEF WEINBERGER LIMITED on behalf of MUSIC THEATRE INTERANATIONAL of NEW YORK

Sun 13 Sep

LEGALLY BLONDE

SIMON WESTON MY LIFE, MY STORY

7.30pm / Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm MUSIC THEATRE INTERAL of NEW YORK Award-winning CO2 are proud to present (with special arrangement by Josef Weinberger) the Amateur Regional Premiere of Legally Blonde. Based on the hit MGM film, the show follows the journey of Sorority President Elle Woods, who after being dumped by her boyfriend, Warner, decides to follow him to Harvard Law School determined to win him back. However she soon discovers it’s a whole new world than the one she has been used to. With help from new friends Emmett and Paulette, plus a little help from her ‘Greek Chorus’ Elle learns how to defy expectations and remain true to herself. With

£19.75 - £12.50 & DISCOUNTS

MAIN THEATRE music and lyrics by Laurence O’ Keefe and book by Heather Hach, the score includes infectious songs such as Omigod you Guys, Chip on my Shoulder, Whipped into Shape, So Much Better and Bend and Snap. This will be a show you won’t want to miss.

REGIONAL PREMIERE

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm In 1982 Argentina invaded the Falkland Islands in an attempt to recapture them from British control. Amongst those sent to the conflict was Simon Weston OBE who, following one of the most horrific moments, was left with 46% burns to his body following an attack by two Argentine planes. For the first time Simon takes to the stage to tell his story. Guiding him will be David Fitzgerald, former Sky News anchor and BBC broadcaster, as Simon shares his truly inspirational story from the front line of war, to being a happy and contented father, grandfather and national treasure. Contains graphic visual footage Recommended for 15+yrs

£16 & DISCOUNTS 9

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2015

Mercury Theatre, Colchester, Brian Eastman and Christabel Albery present

Director Thom Southerland Writers Thom Southerland & Paul Alexander Designer David Woodhead Choreographer Lee Proud Lighting Designer Howard Hudson

Sound Designer Andrew Johnson Musical Supervisor Gareth Valentine Orchestrator Mark Cumberland Musical Director Mark Aspinall Casting Director Will Burton CDG

FRI 25 SEP – SAT 10 OCT Performance times pages 34 & 35 The Smallest Show on Earth is a brand new musical comedy inspired by the hilarious 1950’s film starring Peter Sellers, featuring classic songs by Irving Berlin ((Blue Skies, Shakin’ the Blues Away, Steppin’ Out With My Baby Baby), starring Liza Goddard (Bergerac) Bergerac) and Brian Capron Bergerac (Coronation Street). Street Stunned to discover they have inherited the Bijou cinema, two innocent newly-weds have their hopes dashed when they discover it is a total flea-pit. To restore it to its former glory and stop the wrecking ball, they need to get the eccentric manageress, Mrs Fazackalee (Goddard) and Mr Quill (Capron), the unreliable projectionist, to help them with their ambitious plans.

MUSICAL COMEDY FRIENDS FIRST Book from 24 June

Cast includes: Leo Andrew, Christina Bennington, Ricky Butt, Brian Capron, Jacob Chapman, Matthew Crowe, Matthew Dale, Liza Goddard, Haydn Oakley, Sam O’Rourke, Laura Pitt-Pulford, Philip Rham, Nova Skipp, Leah West

MAIN THEATRE Will they manage to make it a Blockbuster or will the whole venture Fade to Black? Book your tickets now for this wonderful, feel-good musical! Recommended for 7+yrs

Brian Capron Liza Goddard Haydn Oakley Laura Pitt-Pilford ‘Berlin’s music provides the perfect accompaniment to our 1950s story, not only in lyric, but in style and period too.’ Director, Thom Southerland

Wed 30 Sep

7.30pm

Post-show Talk

Thu 1 Oct

1.30pm

Seniors Matinee pre-show talk

Sat 3 Oct

1pm

Touch Tour

Sat 3 Oct

2.30pm

Audio Described

CAP

Thu 8 Oct

7.30pm

Captioned Performance

Sat 10 Oct

11.00am

Backstage Tour

£25 - £10 & DISCOUNTS £12 PREVIEW PERFORMANCES 25 & 26 SEPTEMBER, TICKET PRICES PAGES 30-33

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS

All our regular drama sessions for children and young people run during term time only.

Play and Sway for Toddlers-3yrs

TRAIL BLAZERS Mon 10 Aug - Fri 14 Aug 2015

Arts Award Discover for 6-8yrs

Drama and Story Building for 3-5yrs Tuesdays, 1pm - 2pm £5 per child – no need to book ahead!

10am - 12.30pm each day

After School Drama Club for 5-7yrs

Arts Award Explore for 9-11yrs

Mondays, 4.15pm - 5.15pm Autumn Term: £70 (14 weeks)

1.30pm - 4.30pm each day

A fun summer holiday activity which gives you a chance to try out something new every day, including animation, art and drama. At the end of the week you’ll receive an Arts Award and share your work with friends and family. Sessions take place at Firstsite, Mercur y Theatre, Colchester Arts Centre and Signals Media Arts Centre. Ask ticket sales for more information about bursary places.

Tuesdays, 10.30am - 11.30am £5 per child – no need to book ahead!

After School Drama Club for 8-11yrs Mondays, 5.30pm - 6.30pm Autumn Term: £70 (14 weeks)

Youth Theatre for 11-14yrs Tuesdays OR Wednesdays, 6pm - 8pm Autumn Term: £70 (14 weeks)

Youth Theatre for 14-18yrs

CONNECTIONS 500

dly host the In 2016 the Mercury Theatre will prou festival for nal regio ions nect Con tre National Thea the first time ever! Festival is The National Theatre’s Connections lving 500 invo by ry versa anni celebrating its 21st e 12 fantastic plays, youth theatres and schools to stag ioned for young picked from the 150+ plays commiss will then transfer n uctio prod r people since 1995. Thei ss the UK. to one of 40 partner theatres acro pany of young Connections 500 is open to any com school, youth a re you’ people aged 13-19. Whether ve never staged you’ or ion nisat orga ntary volu theatre, y to be part appl can p grou your re; a production befo of Connections. For further details and to apply visit .org.uk http://connec tions.nationaltheatre

Wednesdays OR Thursdays, 7pm - 9pm Autumn Term: £70 (14 weeks)

FIND OUT MORE

573948 To book call ticket sales on 01206 .co.uk atre or book online at www.mercurythe

DANCE

LIVE MUSIC

Photograph Bill Cooper

FRIENDS FIRST

LIVE MUSIC

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 24 June

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 24 June

Ballet Black present

Sweeney Entertainments present

Easytheatres.com present

Featuring Mark Bruce’s Second Coming

The Best of Abba Tribute Show

Celebrating the music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

Tue 13 Oct

Wed 14 Oct

Thu 15 Oct

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Join Ballet Black for their latest story ballet, Second Coming, a gothic fairytale created by awardwinning choreographer, Mark Bruce. This triple bill also features To Fetch a Pail of Water? by Kit Holder (Birmingham Royal Ballet) and Ballet Black’s 2009 ballet, Depouillement, created by Will Tuckett.

MAIN THEATRE 8pm In 1974 the little known Swedish pop group Abba swept to superstardom with their Eurovision winning Waterloo. Four decades later the song and the band remain as popular as ever.

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm A Four Seasons song shares a special place in everyone’s heart. This critically-acclaimed spectacular contains their number one hits Walk Like a Man, Sherry, Working My Way Back to You, Rag Doll and Let’s Hang On combined with Frankie’s My Eyes Adored You and Grease. Reviving the sublime harmonies of New Jersey’s finest, including Frankie’s incredible falsettos, oh what a night awaits music fans.

TRIPLE BILL

‘The company have never looked better’ The Independent www.balletblack.co.uk

£22.50 - £10

WATERLOO

This phenomenal new tribute show celebrates the sensational rise of Agnetha, Bjorn, Benny and AnniFrid, giving fans the opportunity to experience the thrill of a live Abba show! Their unique sound is replicated with incredible attention to detail by a full live cast and band - with stunning costumes and breathtaking choreography. Their wonderful lyrics are sung in captivating harmony from the opening refrain to the final sing-along chorus of this two-hour spectacular.

£25

BIG GIRLS DON’T CRY

‘Dancing in the aisles, great music, fantastic voices and lots of comic moments that make this a great show to go and see’ London Theatre www.easytheatres.com Recommended for 12+yrs

£25 13

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 24 June

Terry Dash Music present

I&I Productions Ltd. present

Fri 16 Oct

Sat 17 Oct

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm A celebration of the coolest crooners. The hits of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Michael Bublé, Bobby Darin, Matt Monro, Andy Williams and many more.

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Female impersonator Ceri Dupree brings his new 2015 show EYEcons to the stage in a sensational evening of visual comedy, impressions, music and thousands of pounds worth of astounding jaw-dropping costumes. Once described as ‘Joe Longthorne meets Lily Savage…. only with better legs!’, Ceri delivers his unique comic twist to many new characters including Cilla Black, Lady Gaga and Joan Rivers. You also won’t be surprised to see some old favourites like Dolly Parton, Cher and Shirley Temple. Amazing costumes and pin-point parodies in this gag a minute show which pays tongue in cheek reverence to some of Ceri’s favourite women. Contains adult humour. Recommended for 15+yrs

THE KINGS OF COOL WITH MATT FORD

Award–winning vocalist Matt Ford is regarded as the UK’s finest big band singer, broadcasting frequently with the BBC Big Band and The John Wilson Orchestra. Having performed at the 2011 BBC Proms, Matt has regularly toured the UK with acclaimed conductor John Wilson. Last year he returned to the BBC Proms and made his US debut. The Kings of Cool features Matt’s own stunning nine piece band made up of the finest musicians in the UK. www.terrydash.co.uk

£22 14

DON’T HANG AROUND

VARIETY

LIVE MUSIC

CERI DUPREE EYECons

£16

L A V R E T IN DRINKSE CAN B ED PRE-ORDER

DRAMA

AGATHA CHRISTIE’S THE MOUSETRAP

FRIENDS FIRST Book from 24 June

Mon 19 - Sat 24 Oct 7.30pm / Thu, Fri, Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm A classic. A landmark. A legend. The Mousetrap is famous around the world for being the longest running show of any kind in the history of British theatre - with over 25,000 performances it’s a play to be proud of. Enjoy this once in a life-time opportunity to see this masterpiece here at the Mercury Theatre. The scene is set when a group of people gathered in a country house cut off by the snow discover, to their horror, that there is a murderer in their midst. Who can it be? One by one the suspicious characters reveal their sordid pasts until at the last, nerveshredding moment the identity and the motive are finally revealed.

£26.50 - £10

MAIN THEATRE In her own inimitable style, Dame Agatha Christie has created an atmosphere of shuddering suspense and a brilliantly intricate plot where murder lurks around every corner. ‘The cleverest murder mystery of British Theatre’ The Telegraph ‘A truly entertaining classic thriller’ The Sunday Times ‘Deservedly a classic among murder thrillers’ The Observer www.mousetrapontour.com

MUSICAL

MAKE SURE WE HAVE YOUR

EMAIL ADDRESS

• FREE print@home e-tickets • Regular offers sent to email subscribers only • Exclusive volunteer & supporter events GO TO MERCURYTHEATRE.CO.UK AND CLICK ‘MY ACCOUNT’ TO REGISTER 16

TALK

FRIENDS FIRST

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND

Book from 24 June

Eastern Angles present

PARKWAY DREAMS

Lakin McCarthy present

#parkwaydreams @easternangles

RUBY WAX SANE NEW WORLD

Fri 23 - Sat 24 Oct

Mon 26 Oct

STUDIO THEATRE 8pm, Sat 3pm & 8pm Ipswich-based Eastern Angles theatre company present their acclaimed ‘New Town Musical’ Parkway Dreams. Created by Essex-born writer, Kenny Emson, and inspired by the city of Peterborough, it’s a quirky mix of oral history interviews, 1970s and 1980s TV references and backroom city council shenanigans. A poignant saga of a London overspill family, Parkway Dreams is a fascinating and funny insight into the development of a typical English New Town, and an entertaining night out!

MAIN THEATRE 8pm Ruby Wax is a much loved US born comedian, actor and writer based in the UK. She is also a mental health campaigner and has a Masters degree in Mindfulnessbased Cognitive Therapy from Oxford University.

‘Something very special, very original and ultimately very moving’ InSuffolk.com

This show is based on her critically acclaimed book Sane New World which helps us understand why we sabotage our sanity with our own thinking. Sane New World shows us how to rewire our thinking to find calm in a frenetic world. This show is your passport to saner living. She might not be sane herself but she does a pretty good imitation. Contains mild swearing

Recommended for 12+yrs

Recommended for 14+yrs

£13 & DISCOUNTS

£25

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2015

FAMILY Cast includes: Laura Curnick, Tim Freeman, Sarah Moss

FRIENDS FIRST Book from 24 June

TUE 27 – SAT 31 OCT 11am & 2pm

By David McKee Adapted and Directed by Daniel Buckroyd

STUDIO THEATRE

Everyone’s got a monster in them that wants to go grrrr! It sometimes feels as though everyone’s just too busy to listen to little Bernard, but when he finds a big purple monster in the garden things rapidly go from bad to worse. David McKee’s much-loved Not Now, Bernard is joined by two of his other wonderfully funny (and not too scary) monster stories, The Two Monsters and The Monster And The Teddy Bear, in this fast-paced show about growing up and learning how to deal with change.

Director Daniel Buckroyd Composer Carlton Edwards Designer Emma Cains

Not Now, Bernard and Other Monster Stories follows last year’s hugely successful production of Hare and Tortoise. Expect masks, puppets, music, possibly the biggest teddy in the world ... oh, and LOTS of mess! Recommended for children aged 3-8yrs

HALF TERM

TREAT

£8.50 / £6.50 CHILD TICKET PRICES PAGES 30-33

Wed 28 Oct

2.00pm

Relaxed Performance

DRAMA

LIVE MUSIC

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 24 June

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 24 June

LipService Theatre & Oldham Coliseum present

jbaconcerts.com present

The Paper Moon Theatre Company present

Tue 27 Oct

Wed 28 Oct

Thu 29 Oct

THE PICTURE OF DOREEN GRAY 7.30pm

MAIN THEATRE

Be careful what you wish for..! Celebrity presenter Doreen Gray has it all - a drivetime radio show, a high ratings lifestyle programme and a career that is the envy of her old chums. But hitting 50, her face no longer fits the bill. At a school reunion Doreen stumbles across a youthful self-portrait and makes a pact with the picture that will come back to haunt her. Featuring film, fun and LipService’s own unique blend of the surreal and downright silly. ‘Comedy gold at its best’ The Public Reviews Recommended for 10+yrs

£19.50 - £10 & DISCOUNTS 18

VARIETY

THE MAGNIFICENT MUSIC HALL

GEORGIE FAME

7.30pm

MAIN THEATRE

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of his chart-topping hit Yeh, Yeh, Georgie Fame hits the road for a limited number of UK tour dates. With his much loved blend of jazz and rhythm and blues, Georgie has consistently worked in the highest musical circles, becoming a true icon of the British music scene. With over twenty albums and fourteen hit singles, his number ones include Yeh, Yeh, Getaway and The Ballad of Bonnie and Clyde. He’s also collaborated with some of music’s most famous names including Muddy Waters, Gene Vincent, Bill Wyman, Eric Clapton and Van Morrison. In Georgie Fame you have a bona fide music legend!

£25

2.30pm

MAIN THEATRE

Step back in time to the glorious and glamourous heyday of British Music Hall, circa 1890’s, a truly golden era. At the helm of this splendid afternoon of rich entertainment of song, dance, magic and laughter will be your eloquent and elegantly waistcoated Chairman complete with gavel and sharp wit together with an ‘august’ line-up of artistes who have all appeared on BBC TV’s The Good Old Days. This two-hour gala performance will delight and entertain lovers of participatory entertainment, the songs you love to sing and the jokes you love to hear. Carefree, cheerful and uniquely British. Recommended for 14+yrs

£22.50 - £10

COMEDY

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 24 June

JEEVES AND WOOSTER ANDY HAMILTON CHANGE MANAGEMENT PERFECT NONSENSE Lakin McCarthy present

Thu 29 Oct

Fri 30 Oct - Sun 1 Nov

MAIN THEATRE 8pm In his 60 years on this planet, comedy writer and performer Andy Hamilton has experienced many changes. For instance, he was once a 6’4” tall professional basketball player, until a tree fell on him. But, of course, change is an inescapable part of the human condition. Some changes are good, some bad. Why can’t they be more clearly labelled? How did we end up working longer hours? Where did all the sparrows go? If you’re feeling flustered because of flux, Andy will teach you how to cope with the changes we have seen and the changes yet to come.

Fri 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sun 2.30pm

Contains mild peril Recommended for 14+yrs

£25

Direct from the West End! The hit West End comedy is now on tour. This hilarious production layers joy on joy, joke on joke, in a delightful evening of theatrical absurdity featuring P G Wodehouse’s iconic double act. When a country house weekend takes a turn for the worse, Bertie Wooster is unwittingly called on to play matchmaker, but also to steal a silver cow creamer from Totleigh Towers. Naturally, the ever dependable Jeeves is there to prevent Bertie from making a fool of himself in front of a cast of Wodehouse’s finest characters.

Book from 24 June

A new play adapted from the works of P G Wodehouse By The Goodale Brothers Directed by Sean Foley

MAIN THEATRE Enjoy an evening of raucous comedy in the company of Gussie Fink-Nottle, Madeline Bassett, Sir Watkin Bassett, Aunt Dahlia, Roderick Spode and Constable Oates! Laugh out loud funny, Perfect Nonsense is the comedy of the year. Book now! ‘Devour every last drop of this Wooster sauce with relish’ Sunday Telegraph ★★★★★ ‘An inventive evening of bonkers comedy’ Daily Mail ★★★★ www.jeevesandwoosterplay.com Recommended for 8+yrs

£25 - £10 19

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2015

by Sandi Toksvig Director Dan Sherer

HEROES, HAUNTED.

THU 5 – SAT 21 NOV Performance times pages 34 & 35 Patrolling the dusty streets, every step could be your last. You’re twenty years old, a soldier in the British Army, and everyone’s watching your every move – the locals, the enemy, your comrades, your commander. The pressure is constant. Private Edward Clark is every inch the hero to his mates in the Bully Boys, but he’s shattered inside haunted by one particular battle on which his whole life has turned.

DRAMA

FRIENDS FIRST Book from 24 June

STUDIO THEATRE Sandi Toksvig is best known as a comedian, broadcaster and writer. In this intense and enthralling drama, Toksvig digs deep into the ‘war on terror’ to explore the relationship between two men in crisis. Bully Boy is directed by Dan Sherer, Artistic Director of the Colchesterbased Real Circumstance Theatre Company.

Recommended for ages 16+ Contains extremely strong and graphic language throughout Approximate running time 90 minutes with no interval

‘Let us hope that we see more of Bully Boy and of the incomparable Sandi Toksvig’s evident skill in serious drama.’ HHHHH WhatsOnStage (for Nuffield Theatre Southampton, 2011)

When Major Oscar Handley is called to investigate the outcome of this chaotic firefight, his enquiry lifts the lid on Eddie’s fragile mental health, and an unlikely bond is formed between the two men. T

Wed 11 Nov

8pm

Post-show Talk

£14.50 & DISCOUNTS £8.50 PREVIEW PERFORMANCES 5 & 6 NOVEMBER, TICKET PRICES PAGES 30-33

TALK

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 24 June

Sympathetic Developments present

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 24 June

Seabright Productions present

What makes us happy? Reading the human mind.

THE ONLY WAY IS DOWNTON

Barry Collings Entertainments present

Tue 3 Nov

Wed 4 Nov

Fri 6 Nov

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm To some extent, the ability to be happy is inherited, but social scientists have emphasized environmental influences – health, a stable society and economic advantages – can play a major role. Professor Winston examines the role of brain imaging, hormone study, sexuality, child development, pharmacology and psychological research in understanding how science may help us be happier. Happy people tend to live longer, and research suggests we tend to get happier as we get older. Can we make ourselves happier and if so, will knowledge of brain function and how we might manipulate it give us more fulfilled lives? Recommended for 12+yrs

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Direct from a West End season comes this first national tour of Luke Kempner’s tour-de-force impressions comedy, in an extended version featuring exclusive new material.

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Britain’s number one soul band celebrate an incredible 40 years in the business with this night to remember! The three original vocalists, Chris and Eddie Amoo and Dave Smith, perform many of their top 70s hits including You To Me Are Everything, Can’t Get By Without You and Feel The Force alongside a five piece band.

£19.50 - £10 & DISCOUNTS

ROBERT WINSTON

LIVE MUSIC

COMEDY

As celebrities start appearing at the Abbey, cultures clash and eras hilariously collide in this brilliant new parody, which takes in many other popular TV shows and familiar modern voices to help the cast of Downton save the estate from financial ruin – again! ‘Remarkable, tour de force one-man show’ HHHH Daily Telegraph ‘Gloriously funny’ HHHH Independent on Sunday

THE REAL THING

The Real Thing regularly perform at the Rewind 80’s and Here and Now Festivals working alongside artists such as Rick Astley, Boy George, Belinda Carlisle, Kool and the Gang and Chic.

Recommended for 12+yrs

£22

LIVE MUSIC

NEW TALENT

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 24 June

Barry Collings Entertainments present

TriForce Creative Network present

Sat 7 Nov

Tue 10 Nov

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Touring for over ten years, The Ultimate Beatles look the part as well as sounding great. Using the exact instruments The Beatles used, wearing accurate costumes and even emulating The Beatles’ personalities, close your eyes and you’d think you were hearing the real thing.

7.30pm MonologueSlam UK is THE industry showcase for actors. The showcase takes place across the UK with an annual national final in London in December. The only industry showcase to be sponsored by casting directory Spotlight, MonologueSlam UK is renowned for offering a direct link between talent and the industry. Following a lengthy audition process, 22 actors are given the opportunity to perform for a welcoming audience and an industry panel. An added element of competition raises the stakes for the chosen performers. MonologueSlam UK brings you the most exciting new UK talent!

MAIN THEATRE MonologueSlam UK Auditions: Auditions are open to all, with a youth round for 11-18 year olds and two adult rounds for over 18s. Auditions are to be held on Saturday 10 October and Saturday 17 October, in Colchester.

MonologueSlam UK Essex is hosted by actress Chizzy Akudolu (Holby City).

May contain strong language. Recommended for 14+yrs SIGN UP TODAY! Visit monologueslamuk.com

THE ULTIMATE BEATLES MONOLOGUE SLAM UK TRIBUTE SHOW

The show is split into four sets with different costumes representing the eras of the Fab Four’s musical journey. From The Cavern Club, to Shea Stadium, Sgt. Pepper, Abbey Road and more, audiences can sing along (or just scream throughout girls!). All the hits will be performed from Love Me Do to Let It Be. You’ll love them yeah yeah yeah!

£20

MonologueSlam UK Masterclass: The Masterclass is open to all. Analyse the quality and control of your monologue performance in a fun, interactive and constructive session designed to bring out the best in you. The Masterclass will be held on Saturday 31 October.

£10 & DISCOUNTS 23

OPERA

COMEDY

FRIENDS FIRST

ONE MAN BREAKING BAD The unauthorised parody

Wed 11 Nov

Book from 24 June

Olivier Award-winning OperaUpClose present

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO

New orchestration for piano, clarinet and viola by Alex Beetschen. New English version by Robin Norton-Hale

Thu 12 Nov

SAVE MONEY ON CAR PARKING

WHEN YOU BOOK AHEAD Park at St. Mary’s car park, or Middleborough car park when St. Mary’s is full

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm LA actor Miles Allen smacks the senses with his super-charged, hilariously accurate renditions of all the iconic characters. With over a million hits on YouTube and sell-out runs at comedy festivals in Melbourne and Edinburgh, Allen’s incredible impersonations break all six seasons down into one exhilarating, uproarious tour-de-force parody performance.

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm Mozart’s joyous The Marriage of Figaro combines great tunes, laugh-out-loud comedy and powerful insights into what it is to be human, so it’s little wonder that it is one of the world’s best-loved operas.

‘A high-tempo, laugh out loud, beautifully executed homage to one of the best TV shows of our generation.’ HHHHH What’s on Stage

‘Terrific fun’ Time Out HHHH

ADD A PARKING TICKET TO YOUR ORDER FOR JUST £1.50

‘Sublime music which will really knock you back’ Fringe Opera ★★★★★

ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Contains strong language and adult themes Recommended for 16+yrs

Contains strong language Recommended for 12+yrs

Please note you can no longer purchase discounted parking from us on the day

£22.50 - £10

£25 - £10

‘Inspirational’ The Independent HHHH ‘For once laughter that doesn’t rely on subtitles’ Evening Standard HHHH

LIVE MUSIC

TALK

COMEDY

FRIENDS FIRST

Book from 24 June

FRIENDS FIRST Book from 24 June

COLCHESTER MILITARY WIVES CHOIR

Phil McIntyre Entertainments present

MICHAEL PORTILLO A GAME OF TWO HALVES

Fri 13 Nov

Sat 14 Nov

Sun 15 Nov

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm It will be a Grand Night for Singing as the Colchester Military Wives Choir return by popular demand after a sell-out performance last year.

MAIN THEATRE 8pm That bloke. You know. The Irish guy. No, not the bald one. The other one. You know him. The one Carol from work really likes. Wait, that might be Jason Byrne. Anyway. Funny chap. Has a new show!

MAIN THEATRE 7.30pm It took Michael Portillo little more than 10 years to get a seat in the Commons and then rise in power and esteem to a point where he was a favoured leader of his party and possible future PM. A track record like that suggests a privileged friend of the rich and famous, but since leaving the house almost a decade ago Michael has endeared himself to many with his obvious respect for solid workmanship as found in our great Victorian Railways and the daily life of ordinary citizens. Listen to his story and have the opportunity to pose your questions.

With songs from the musicals Oliver and Les Miserables to the popular Skyfall and The Rose, there will be something for everyone. Chattanooga Choo Choo will get toes tapping whilst the beautiful Elgar’s The Snow will give a seasonal note to the performance. Several of the well-known Military Wives Choir songs such as Stronger Together and Wherever You Are will also feature in this not-to-bemissed concert.

£12

ED BYRNE OUTSIDE, LOOKING IN

‘This is a seamless and perfectly timed show that could stand proudly next to any Izzard, Bailey, Carr or Skinner stadium-filler’ HHHHH Sunday Times ‘Hilarious anecdotes! I assure you Ed Byrne is one comedian you should DEFINITLEY see’ HHHHH Edinburgh Festival Magazine Recommended for 12+yrs

£19

Recommended for 12yrs+

£22.50 - £10 & DISCOUNTS 25

MADE IN COLCHESTER SEASON 2015

Written by Fine Time Fontayne and Daniel Buckroyd Director Daniel Buckroyd Designer Juliet Shillingford Musical Director Richard Reeday Sound Designer Marcus Christensen Choreographer Charlie Morgan

FAMILY DRAMA

SAT 28 NOV – SUN 10 JAN Performance times pages 34 & 35 Hop on your magic carpet and join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Come with us to Old Peking where Aladdin dreams of marrying the beautiful Princess Jasmine and providing a better life for his mother, Widow Twanky, and brother, Wishee Washee. With the promise of an inheritance to make him as rich as a prince, the wicked magician Abanazer has tricked Aladdin into helping him find a magic lamp hidden in a secret cavern high in the hills. Aladdin soon finds himself trapped with only a battered old lamp for company. It’s only when he rubs the scruffy lamp that his adventure really begins!

Cast includes panto favourites Ignatius Anthony, Laura Curnick, Tim Freeman, Sarah Moss, Simon Pontin, Dale Superville

MAIN THEATRE Will Widow Twanky find romance? Will Wishee Washee prove his worth? Will Aladdin finally marry Princess Jasmine? All will be revealed at the Mercury Theatre! Aladdin will need the help of all his pals in the audience if he’s going to win the Princess’s heart. So prepare to boo, hiss, cheer and sing! Are you ready? We can’t hear you…!

FILL UP FIRST AT FOOD @ THE MERCURY! CALL 01206 368100 TO RESERVE A TABLE

£26.50 - £10 TICKET PRICES PAGES 30-33

Approximate running time 2hrs 15minutes, including interval Recommended for adults and families with children aged 3+yrs Everyone, including infants of all ages, must have a valid purchased ticket

‘Magical and spectacular’ HHHHH The Public Reviews for the Mercury’s 2014 pantomime, Cinderella

TICKET PRICES FROZEN AND EXTRA WEEKEND SHOWS! RP

Tue 5 Jan

2pm

Relaxed and Dementia Friendly

7pm

Relaxed and Dementia Friendly

CAP

Fri 8 Jan

7pm

Captioned Performance

Sat 9 Jan

12.30pm

Touch Tour

Sat 9 Jan

2pm

Audio Described

DON’T HANG AROUND

MUSICAL

FRIENDS FIRST Book from 24 June

Colchester Operatic Society (COS) present

SISTER ACT

L A V R E T IN DRINKSE CAN B ED PRE-ORDER

Wed 20 – Sat 30 Jan 7.30pm / Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm Colchester Operatic Society are proud to present this feel-good show. Sister Act is a musical written by Cheri Steinkellner and Bill Steinkellner with additional book material by Douglas Carter Beane, lyrics by Glenn Slater and music by Alan Menken. It is based on the hit 1992 film comedy of the same name and tells the hilarious story of Deloris Van Cartier, a wannabe diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a crime and the cops are forced to hide her in the last place anyone would think to look—a convent! Under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

£19.75 - £12.50 & DISCOUNTS 28

MAIN THEATRE This joyful show includes numbers such as Take Me To Heaven, Raise Your Voice, Here Within These Walls and Sister Act. A sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, Sister Act is reason to REJOICE!

! E C N E R E F IF D A E K MA

AS A REGISTERED CHARITY YOUR SUPPORT HELPS US TO KEEP HIGH QUALITY THEATRE IN COLCHESTER.

FRIENDS BENEFITS Regular newsletter Priority booking – new shows on sale 24 June Invitation to a Supporters’ event Drinks voucher Membership card Up to six free ticket exchanges Young Friend: (16 to 25-year-olds) £4 Friend: from £26 Premier Friend: from £130 Ambassador: from £500

CORPORATE SUPPORTER Bang and Olufsen thebestofcolchester Birkett Long Solicitors Citi Business Systems Colchester Institute

DK Moriarty Limited Essex and Suffolk Water Scrutton Bland The Smile Clinic WRS Insurance Brokers LTD

There are two levels of membership available for our corporate supporters, costing as little as £275+VAT a year. Corporate support of the Mercury is a great way to play an active role in your local community and you’ll receive multiple free tickets to selected performances, networking events and exclusive backstage opportunities!

TERS@MERCURYTHEATRE.CO.UK OR PP SU AIL EM 948 573 06 012 LL FOR MORE INFORMATION CA O.UK/SUPPORT-US OR VISIT WWW.MERCURYTHEATRE.C 29

BOOK AT WWW.MERCURYTHEATRE.CO.UK BOOK AT WWW.MERCURYTHEATRE.CO.UK TICKET SALES Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester CO1 1PT

TEL EMAIL WEBSITE FAX

01206 573948 tickets@mercurytheatre.co.uk www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 01206 769607

Ticket sales is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 8pm (10am to 6pm when there is no evening performance). For performances on Sundays and bank holidays ticket sales will be open 90 minutes prior to the show.

BUYING YOUR TICKET Just call, email or write to us – tickets can be bought by cash, cheque, theatre tokens, Mercury Theatre gift vouchers, and credit and debit cards. Tickets can be reserved without payment for five days. Book online at www.mercurytheatre.co.uk Print@home – You can collect your tickets from the ticket counter at least 45 minutes prior to the performance, or we can post them to you (charges apply). We would recommend however that we email your tickets to you to print yourself at home. Don’t have a printer? No problem! Show us your tickets on your phone.

BOOKING AND INFORMATION

Exchanging tickets – We will exchange tickets for another performance or give you a credit to the value of your seats for use at a later time up to five days prior to the date on the ticket. Tickets must be returned to the ticket sales counter. Unfortunately we cannot give refunds. We charge £1 per transaction for this service. There is no charge for season ticket holders, Friends or supporters. Babes in arms – We can now accommodate up to 15 under 2s, sat on laps, at select performances. Tickets are £2.50 each and can be booked in person at our ticket desk or over the phone.

WITH NO BOOKING FEE DISCOUNTS £10/£12 concessions available in most seats for over 60s, jobseekers, students and under 26s offered Monday to Friday and matinees for all Made in Colchester shows and selected other performances.

Job Seeker Standby £1 Job Seeker Standby tickets on Made in Colchester show matinees from one hour before performance. ID required.

School Groups All tickets £8.50 Mon-Fri, plus one free additional ticket for every ten purchased on Made in Colchester shows.

Group Discounts Groups of 10+ get £2 off per ticket on Made in Colchester shows excluding the first two performances and the lowest priced tickets. Only one discount can be applied to each ticket transaction.

YOUR VISIT Car Parking The Mercury Theatre offers discounted car parking for our patrons who park in St Mary’s car park. This must be purchased in advance.

Cloakroom Bags and coats can be left in a supervised cloakroom – payment by donation. Booster seats for children are also available.

E-cigarettes

Digby Gallery

In line with World Health Organisation guidance we don’t allow the use of e-cigarettes or vaping indoors at the Mercury Theatre.

The Digby Gallery hosts a varied programme of exhibitions by professional artists and photographers connected with the region. There is also space for 3D work in a display cabinet. For details on exhibiting and for information about forthcoming exhibitions call 01206 573948 or email gallery@mercurytheatre.co.uk

Special Effects Warning If you are concerned about any special effects (strobe lighting, smoke, loud bangs etc.) sometimes used in productions, please call the ticket sales team on 01206 573948.

Refreshments Theatre Bar – the theatre bar is open one hour before the performance, during intervals and after the show. Tea, coffee and a wide range of drinks are on sale. You can avoid the interval rush by ordering your drinks before the show in the bar or at the kiosk. Kiosk – the foyer kiosk is open 45 minutes before the show, during intervals and after the show, selling a selection of ice cream and confectionary. Tea, coffee and soft drinks are also available. You can now order your interval drinks from the kiosk, so no need to queue at the bar. Interval Drinks – Avoid the rush by purchasing your drinks or ice creams at the bar or the kiosk before the show – then at the interval they will be waiting for you. And don’t worry – the ice cream will still be frozen and your wine chilled! Food @ The Mercury – open from 10am to late daily. Lunch and pre-show set menus and a delicious a la carte selection. Call 01206 368100 to book or email food@mercurytheatre.co.uk.

Mercury Gift Vouchers & Theatre Tokens We sell Mercury Theatre Gift Vouchers and National Theatre Tokens. Please speak to the ticket sales team or see www.mercurytheatre.co.uk for details.

Hire the Mercury Theatre Did you know that the Mercury can be hired for children’s parties (from as little as £50), conferences, meetings and events? A range of spaces, packages and prices are available. Please contact Carol Rayner for more details on 01206 577006, email carol.rayner@mercurytheatre.co.uk or see www.mercurytheatre.co.uk for more information T Post-show Talk Join the cast after a performance to ask your questions. For dates see diary pages 34-35. S Seniors Matinees Seniors Matinee ticket holders can enjoy a preperformance FREE talk and tea or coffee at 1.30pm. For dates see diary pages 34-35. P Page to Stage Performance Discover more about the creative process in this free workshop. For dates see diary pages 34-35. Call the Ticket Office on 01206 573948 for times and to book your free place.

BOOK AT WWW.MERCURYTHEATRE.CO.UK ACCESS

SEATING PLAN

Tickets for disabled customers including those with impaired sight or hearing are £8.50 for all Made in Colchester productions. Please check online or call to book. For access ticket prices and availability for other shows please call 01206 573948.

This is an example seating plan for James and the Giant Peach and The Smallest Show on Earth. Seating plans vary, see our website or speak to one of our friendly ticket sales assistants for details. See website for Aladdin seating plan. Ticket prices usually vary by day of the week, and may change without notice.

Companion Tickets If you need to have a companion with you to enable you to visit us we will also discount their ticket to the Access price.

Q 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 Q P 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 O

P O

33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

N 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

7 N

M 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

6 5 L

6 5

4 K

J 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

38 38

41 40 40

G F

39 E

38 38 D

37 37 37 C

36 36 36

35 35 35 35

34 34 34 34

33 33 33 33

E 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

32 32 32 32

31 31 31

B 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13

30 30

30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12

A 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 A

The Smallest Show on Earth

7 8 9

12 13

5 H

11 11

10 10

8 9

7 8

6 6

5 5

£22.50

£19.50

£15

£12

£10

£19.50 £25

£17.50 £22.50

£12 £19.50

£12 £15

£10

Bully Boy

£14.50

£19.50 £24.50

Purple

£22.50 £26.50

G F

Yellow

Aladdin

stage Green

James and the Giant Peach

7 7 G

33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 D 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10

7 8

G 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

37 36

36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

H 37

There is limited disabled parking under the front canopy for blue badge holders which operates on a first come first served basis. A lift situated along the corridor to the right of the ticket sales counter is available for patrons who have trouble negotiating the stairs.

36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

K 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9

£16 £22

Blue

£12.50 £17.50

Red

£10

We welcome Assistance Dogs at all performances, please inform us when booking. The Mercury Theatre can accommodate up to eight wheelchair users in the main theatre and two in the studio theatre, with additional spaces available for specialised performances. Please state that you require a wheelchair space when booking. An infrared enhancement system is available in the main auditorium at all performances. Our system is suitable for use with or without a hearing aid through our specialised equipment. Please mention when making your booking. Equipment should be collected from the cloakroom.

RP Relaxed Performance Relaxed performances are for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment including people with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder, sensory or communication disorders, or a learning disability. Audience members will be free to come and go as they please throughout the performance and make noise if they want to. For dates see diary pages 34-35.

WITH NO BOOKING FEE The Mercury Theatre is only one hour from London by car or train. Following the theatre mask symbols on the road signs will take you to St Mary’s car park (CO3 3AA), which is a short walk across the Balkerne Hill footbridge to the theatre. If St Mary’s car park is full you may also park in Middleborough car park with a pre-paid voucher from the theatre.

Captioned

Do you or someone you know enjoy theatre but find it difficult to hear what is being said? Captioning converts the spoken word, songs and sound effects into text on a caption unit on the stage. For dates see diary pages 34-35. Please let us know of any requirements you or anyone in your party may have. We will do all we can to make your visit as enjoyable and as straightforward as possible.

NORTH STATION

A12 LONDON

A134 SUDBURY

WAY WEST

COLNE BANK AVENUE

A137 HARWICH M’TREE

MERCURY THEATRE

HIGH ST

FIRSTSITE

LEXDEN ROAD

www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

A133 CLACTON

TOWN STATION SOUTH WAY

MAGDALEN ST

B1025 MERSEA

MERSEA ROAD

For access information please contact Maria Harrison on 01206 573948 or Foremail a more detailed map please visit our website, access@mercurytheatre.co.uk

B1022 TIPTREE

CO WD RA YA VE NU E

CASTLE PARK

JUMBO

A12 IPSWICH

COWDRAY AVENUE

MIDDLEBOROUGH CAR PARK

ST MARY’S CAR PARK

Call 01206 573948

NORTH

IPS WIC HR OAD

Mercury Theatre Balkerne Gate Colchester Essex CO1 1PT

HA RW ICH RO AD

CAP

HOW TO FIND US

NOR THE RN APP RD

Audio described performances give you a live commentary about the action happening on stage through a pair of headphones. We also offer Touch Tours before each audio described performance, enabling you to explore the stage and get a feel for the costumes and set before the show starts. For dates see diary pages 34-35.

BALKERNE HILL

AD Audio Description

For a more detailed map please visit our website, www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

DIARY August Fri 7 Sat 8 Wed 12 Thu 13 Sat 15 Sun 16 Wed 19 Thu 20 Fri 21 Sat 22 Sun 23 Wed 26 Thu 27 Fri 28 Sat 29 Sun 30

2pm 2pm 6pm 6pm 2pm 2pm 6pm 2pm 6pm 6pm 2pm 7.30pm 2pm 6pm 2pm 6pm RP 6pm 2pm AD/TT 7.30pm 2pm 6pm 2pm CAP

James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach Chas and Dave James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach Masters of the House James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach James and the Giant Peach

September Tue 1 Wed 2 Thu 3 Fri 4 Sat 5 Thu 10 Fri 11

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

Jackson Live The Big Chris Barber Band Jay Rayner Whitney Queen of the Night Simon and Garfunkel Story Simon and Garfunkel Story Legally Blonde Legally Blonde

Sat 12 Sun 13 Mon 14 Tue 15 Wed 16 Thu 17 Fri 18 Sat 19 Fri 25 Sat 26 Mon 28 Tue 29 Wed 30

2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

Legally Blonde Legally Blonde Simon Weston Legally Blonde Legally Blonde Legally Blonde Legally Blonde Legally Blonde Legally Blonde Legally Blonde The Smallest Show on Earth The Smallest Show on Earth The Smallest Show on Earth The Smallest Show on Earth The Smallest Show on Earth

October Thu 1 Fri 2 Sat 3 Mon 5 Tue 6 Wed 7 Thu 8 Fri 9 Sat 10 Tue 13 Wed 14 Thu 15 Fri 16 Sat 17 Mon 19 Tue 20 Wed 21

Thu 22 Fri 23

Sat 24

Mon 26 Tue 27

Wed 28

Thu 29 S

2.30pm The Smallest Show on Earth 7.30pm The Smallest Show on Earth 7.30pm The Smallest Show on Earth 2.30pm AD/TT The Smallest Show on Earth 7.30pm The Smallest Show on Earth 7.30pm The Smallest Show on Earth 7.30pm The Smallest Show on Earth 7.30pm The Smallest Show on Earth 2.30pm The Smallest Show on Earth 7.30pm CAP The Smallest Show on Earth 7.30pm The Smallest Show on Earth 2.30pm The Smallest Show on Earth 7.30pm The Smallest Show on Earth 7.30pm Ballet Black Triple Bill 8pm Waterloo 7.30pm Big Girls Donâ€™t Cry 7.30pm The Kings of Cool 7.30pm Ceri Dupree - EYECons 7.30pm The Mousetrap 7.30pm The Mousetrap 7.30pm The Mousetrap

Fri 30

Sat 31

2.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 2.30pm 3pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 11am 2pm 7.30pm 11am 2pm RP 7.30pm 11am 2pm 2.30pm 8pm 11am 2pm 7.30pm 11am 2pm 2.30pm 7.30pm

The Mousetrap The Mousetrap The Mousetrap The Mousetrap Parkway Dreams The Mousetrap Parkway Dreams The Mousetrap Parkway Dreams Ruby Wax Not Now, Bernard Not Now, Bernard Doreen Gray Not Now, Bernard Not Now, Bernard Georgie Fame Not Now, Bernard Not Now, Bernard Magnificent Music Hall Andy Hamilton Not Now, Bernard Not Now, Bernard Jeeves and Wooster Not Now, Bernard Not Now, Bernard Jeeves and Wooster Jeeves and Wooster

November Off Peak / Peak / High Peak Sun 1 Tue 3 Wed 4 Thu 5 Fri 6 Sat 7

2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 3pm 7.30pm 8pm

Jeeves and Wooster Robert Winston The Only Way is Downton Bully Boy The Real Thing Bully Boy Bully Boy The Ultimate Beatles Tribute Bully Boy

Mon 9 Tue 10 Wed 11 Thu 12

Fri 13 Sat 14

Sun 15 Mon 16 Tue 17 Wed 18 Thu 19 Fri 20 Sat 21 Sat 28

8pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 3pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 3pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 8pm 3pm 8pm 8pm 3pm 8pm 2pm 7pm

Bully Boy Monologue Slam Bully Boy One Man Breaking Bad Bully Boy Bully Boy The Marriage of Figaro Bully Boy Colchester Military Wives Choir Bully Boy Bully Boy Ed Byrne - Outside, Looking In Bully Boy Michael Portillo Bully Boy Bully Boy Bully Boy Bully Boy Bully Boy Bully Boy Bully Boy Bully Boy Aladdin Aladdin

Wed 2 Thu 3 Fri 4 Sat 5 Sun 6 Tue 8 Wed 9

10.15am 2pm 10.15am 2pm 10.15am 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 10.15am 2pm

Fri 11 Sat 12 Sun 13 Tue 15 Wed 16 Thu 17 Fri 18 Sat 19 Sun 20 Tue 22 Wed 23 Thu 24 Sat 26

December Tue 1

Thu 10

Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin

Sun 27 Tue 29 Wed 30 Thu 31

10.15am 2pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 10.15am 2pm 10.15am 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 11am 3pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 7pm 11am 3pm

Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin

January Fri 1 Sat 2

2pm 2pm 7pm

Sun 3 Tue 5 Wed 6 Thu 7 Fri 8 Sat 9 Sun 10 Wed 20 Thu 21 Fri 22 Sat 23 Mon 25 Tue 26 Wed 27 Thu 28 Fri 29 Sat 30

2pm 2pm RP 7pm RP 7pm 7pm 7pm CAP 2pm AD/TT 7pm 2pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm 7.30pm

Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin Sister Act Sister Act Sister Act Sister Act Sister Act Sister Act Sister Act Sister Act Sister Act Sister Act Sister Act Sister Act

KEY Post-show Talk with Cast/Director P

Page To Stage Performance

Seniors Matinee (With FREE Talk at 1.30pm & tea / coffee)

CAP Captioned Performance

AD Audio Described Performance TT Touch Tour of the set RP Relaxed Performance

Aladdin Aladdin Aladdin

See www.mercurytheatre.co.uk for more information 35

Theatres are at the heart of our communities. Let’s shout about how much that matters.

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When our Councillors are taking tough decisions about how to spend our taxes, they need to know how much we value our local theatre’s work and role in the community.

Twitter @mercurytheatre

My Theatre Matters! invites you to shout about how important your theatre is. We’ll be gathering your stories and building a collective voice to influence decision makers.

Theatres are at the heart Call 01206 573948 of our communities. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk your voice heard. Add your voice to the UK-wide campaign Join our mailing list: Let’s shout about how mytheatrematters.com tickets@mercurytheatre.co.uk much that matters. Let’s tell them - my theatre matters!

Join the campaign and find ways to make

When our Councillors are taking tough decisions about how to spend our taxes, they need to know how much we value our local theatre’s work and role in the community. My Theatre Matters! invites you to shout about how important your theatre is. We’ll be gathering your stories and building a collective voice to influence decision makers. Let’s tell them - my theatre matters! Join the campaign and find ways to make your voice heard.

Add your voice to the UK-wide campaign

mytheatrematters.com

All details in this brochure are correct at the time of going to press. Colchester Mercury Theatre Ltd reserves the right to make alterations where necessary.

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