The Next Six Weeks

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Directed by trumpet-player Paul Lacey, Back To Basie features London session musicians and jazz soloists all dedicated to the music of Count Basie’s legendary ‘Swingin’ Machine’ - straight ahead swing played with dynamics, good humour, and a large dose of the blues!

Launched in 2001, Back To Basie have since been presenting concerts with “accuracy and style” throughout Britain and Europe to great reviews.

Back To Basie has been voted Best Big Band in the British Jazz Awards six times - in seven years!

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Time travelling magicians Morgan & West present a jaw dropping, heart stopping, brain busting, opinion adjusting, death defying, mind frying, spirit lifting, paradigm shifting, outlook changing, furniture rearranging magic extravaganza!

Morgan & West have fooled Penn & Teller (Fool Us ITV 1), competed to be the Next Great Magician (ITV 1), and even attempted to escape The Slammer (CBBC).

Witness a mountain of mysterious magic, a hatful of hyper-reality, and of course a truck full of tricks and tea. Mixing brain boggling illusion and good old fashioned tom-foolery, Morgan & West present a show for all the family, where magic and silliness abound! Fun for ages five to 105!

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Join time travelling magic duo Morgan & West for an evening chock full of jaw dropping, brain bursting, gasp eliciting feats of magic.

Morgan & West have fooled Penn & Teller (Fool Us ITV 1), competed to be the Next Great Magician (ITV 1), and even attempted to escape The Slammer (CBBC). Join these practitioners of prestidigitation for an unforgettable evening of magic, mystery, and the unexplainable.

The dashing chaps offer up a plateful of illusion and impossibility, all served with wit, charm and no small amount of panache. Be sure to wear a hat – Morgan & West might just blow your mind!

Suitable for adults and youngsters aged 10+

For younger children aged 5+, see Morgan and West: Utterly Spiffing Magic Show for Kids!

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Winner of an Edinburgh Fringe First Award 2018

Directed by Nicolas Kent

Mark Thomas is 54, the NHS is 70, UK national average life expectancy is 84. If Mark makes it to 84 the NHS will be 100, what will they both look like? Based on a series of interviews with leading experts in and on the NHS and residencies in hospitals and surgeries, Thomas working with director Nicolas Kent uses his own demise to explore the state we’re in. What's going right, what’s going wrong and how does it get better?

Suitable for ages 16+

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From the Olivier Nominated duo behind the hugely celebrated & critically acclaimed West End hit Eric & Little Ern

This is a brilliant homage crammed full of renditions of those famous comedy sketches, that hits all the right notes! From Greig's Piano concerto to Mr Memory, "Arsenal!" It’s a show full of Morecambe and Wise's most loved routines, songs and sketches and of course a musical guest. This wonderful show, evokes memories of times when whole families would huddle around the telly on Sunday evenings.

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Like the name says it’s a Comedy Club 4 Kids!

Cracking entertainment for everyone over six years old and under 400 years old (no vampires). We have the best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits!

Age guide 6+

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After a successful debut tour, Dear Zoo the timeless children’s classic book returns to the stage in 2019!

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.

Join us at your local theatre to see what the zoo has sent: the perfect pet – in the end!

Suitable for ages 2+ and their families

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The multi-award winning CTC invite you join their whacky adventures in Wonderland this February!

The ever-curious Alice, begins her journey innocently enough as she chases the White Rabbit down a rabbit hole. Her adventures become increasingly more strange as she finds herself in Wonderland racing a Dodo Bird, getting tied up with Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, rapping with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar and beating the Queen of Hearts at her own game!

Travel down the rabbit hole and join Alice, one of literature’s most beloved heroines, in her madcap adventures this February half-term! Featuring the much loved songs from Disney’s thrilling animated motion picture, including ‘The Mad Hatters Tea Party’ and ‘Painting the Roses Red’ as well as some new snazzy additions such as ‘Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah’ and ‘Golden Afternoon’.

PLEASE NOTE: The New Wolsey Theatre is acting as a ticketing agency for this event. Please check the venue and event details carefully.

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After a successful debut tour, Dear Zoo the timeless children’s classic book returns to the stage in 2019!

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.

Join us at your local theatre to see what the zoo has sent: the perfect pet – in the end!

Suitable for ages 2+ and their families

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The multi-award winning CTC invite you join their whacky adventures in Wonderland this February!

The ever-curious Alice, begins her journey innocently enough as she chases the White Rabbit down a rabbit hole. Her adventures become increasingly more strange as she finds herself in Wonderland racing a Dodo Bird, getting tied up with Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, rapping with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar and beating the Queen of Hearts at her own game!

Travel down the rabbit hole and join Alice, one of literature’s most beloved heroines, in her madcap adventures this February half-term! Featuring the much loved songs from Disney’s thrilling animated motion picture, including ‘The Mad Hatters Tea Party’ and ‘Painting the Roses Red’ as well as some new snazzy additions such as ‘Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah’ and ‘Golden Afternoon’.

PLEASE NOTE: The New Wolsey Theatre is acting as a ticketing agency for this event. Please check the venue and event details carefully.

Full performance details

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After a successful debut tour, Dear Zoo the timeless children’s classic book returns to the stage in 2019!

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.

Join us at your local theatre to see what the zoo has sent: the perfect pet – in the end!

Suitable for ages 2+ and their families

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After a successful debut tour, Dear Zoo the timeless children’s classic book returns to the stage in 2019!

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.

Join us at your local theatre to see what the zoo has sent: the perfect pet – in the end!

Suitable for ages 2+ and their families

Full performance details

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The multi-award winning CTC invite you join their whacky adventures in Wonderland this February!

The ever-curious Alice, begins her journey innocently enough as she chases the White Rabbit down a rabbit hole. Her adventures become increasingly more strange as she finds herself in Wonderland racing a Dodo Bird, getting tied up with Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, rapping with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar and beating the Queen of Hearts at her own game!

Travel down the rabbit hole and join Alice, one of literature’s most beloved heroines, in her madcap adventures this February half-term! Featuring the much loved songs from Disney’s thrilling animated motion picture, including ‘The Mad Hatters Tea Party’ and ‘Painting the Roses Red’ as well as some new snazzy additions such as ‘Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah’ and ‘Golden Afternoon’.

PLEASE NOTE: The New Wolsey Theatre is acting as a ticketing agency for this event. Please check the venue and event details carefully.

Full performance details

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The multi-award winning CTC invite you join their whacky adventures in Wonderland this February!

The ever-curious Alice, begins her journey innocently enough as she chases the White Rabbit down a rabbit hole. Her adventures become increasingly more strange as she finds herself in Wonderland racing a Dodo Bird, getting tied up with Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, rapping with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar and beating the Queen of Hearts at her own game!

Travel down the rabbit hole and join Alice, one of literature’s most beloved heroines, in her madcap adventures this February half-term! Featuring the much loved songs from Disney’s thrilling animated motion picture, including ‘The Mad Hatters Tea Party’ and ‘Painting the Roses Red’ as well as some new snazzy additions such as ‘Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah’ and ‘Golden Afternoon’.

PLEASE NOTE: The New Wolsey Theatre is acting as a ticketing agency for this event. Please check the venue and event details carefully.

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The story of ‘Gorgeous’ George O’Connell, a bare knuckle fighter from a traveller family, hero to his people and self proclaimed ‘Gypsy King’. George enters the world of professional boxing which puts him on a collision course with his roots, his fears and his very identity.

In the opposite corner, Dane ‘The Pain’ Samson, the young pretender and son of a boxing legend, is fighting his own battles. This lead to a tragedy that neither man can predict.

With the real challenge taking place outside the ring, can two men raised to fight ever learn to love?

‘Gypsy Queen’ is a critically acclaimed love story about two men who find each other in the most unlikely world; the world of professional boxing. It explores LGBTQI visibility in sport, faith and sexuality and the notion of masculinity, played out with biting humour, heart and soul.

Age guide 15+ (contains some strong language and scenes of a sexual nature)

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An Eclipse Theatre Company, Bristol Old Vic and Hull Truck Theatre co-production

“My name is Phyllis Princess James. I will wear this crown every day. I will never take it off even when I am asleep.”

Meet Princess. A cheeky 10-year-old, with a plan to win the Weston-Super-Mare Beauty Contest. Trouble is, her mum is busy working several jobs, her brother, a budding photographer, won’t even take her picture and then – The Hustler returns.

In 1963 Bristol, as Black British Civil Rights campaigners walk onto the streets, Princess finds out what it really means to be black and beautiful.

Princess & The Hustler is the second national tour born from Revolution Mix – an Eclipse movement that is spearheading the largest ever delivery of New Black British stories. The first Revolution Mix story was last year’s sell-out production of Black Men Walking.

By Chinonyerem Odimba. Directed by Dawn Walton.

#PrincessandTheHustler

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An Eclipse Theatre Company, Bristol Old Vic and Hull Truck Theatre co-production

“My name is Phyllis Princess James. I will wear this crown every day. I will never take it off even when I am asleep.”

Meet Princess. A cheeky 10-year-old, with a plan to win the Weston-Super-Mare Beauty Contest. Trouble is, her mum is busy working several jobs, her brother, a budding photographer, won’t even take her picture and then – The Hustler returns.

In 1963 Bristol, as Black British Civil Rights campaigners walk onto the streets, Princess finds out what it really means to be black and beautiful.

Princess & The Hustler is the second national tour born from Revolution Mix – an Eclipse movement that is spearheading the largest ever delivery of New Black British stories. The first Revolution Mix story was last year’s sell-out production of Black Men Walking.

By Chinonyerem Odimba. Directed by Dawn Walton.

#PrincessandTheHustler

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Luke Wright Poet Laureate

Following a two week sell-out run in Edinburgh, Luke Wright hits the road with the show the critics are calling his best yet.

With a new Poet Laureate due to be announced in 2019 Wrighty’s chucking his hat in the ring. He’s on a mission to write poems to unite a nation divided by austerity and Brexit. Can it be done? Can one poet ever really represent an entire nation? And just who are these previously laureled rogues? Luke delves into the murky world of poets laureate past: the heroes, the villains, and ones who didn’t even write poetry.

The centre-piece as always is Luke’s own blistering verse. Big-hearted and quick witted, Wright’s poems have been lauded by everyone from Patti Smith to The Libertines. A Fringe First winner and a Stage Award winner, Wright is truly a wordsmith and raconteur at the top of his game. In 2019 he celebrates the twentieth anniversary of his first gig. So maybe he can pull it off?

Age guide 14+

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An Eclipse Theatre Company, Bristol Old Vic and Hull Truck Theatre co-production

“My name is Phyllis Princess James. I will wear this crown every day. I will never take it off even when I am asleep.”

Meet Princess. A cheeky 10-year-old, with a plan to win the Weston-Super-Mare Beauty Contest. Trouble is, her mum is busy working several jobs, her brother, a budding photographer, won’t even take her picture and then – The Hustler returns.

In 1963 Bristol, as Black British Civil Rights campaigners walk onto the streets, Princess finds out what it really means to be black and beautiful.

Princess & The Hustler is the second national tour born from Revolution Mix – an Eclipse movement that is spearheading the largest ever delivery of New Black British stories. The first Revolution Mix story was last year’s sell-out production of Black Men Walking.

By Chinonyerem Odimba. Directed by Dawn Walton.

#PrincessandTheHustler

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Mathilda is a little grey sheep in a little grey world. Her herd is content to munch clovers, but Mathilda's mind is full of questions.

When an orange balloon makes a surprise appearance on the farm, Mathilda discovers there is more to who she is than being a grey sheep! As she explores what it means to be orange, Mathilda leads us all on a journey of self-discovery and the joys of self-expression. Join Mathilda, her herd, and our narrators on stage and see how, with a little imagination and a big open mind, anything is possible! With a diverse cast of Deaf and hearing actors, Mathilda's tactile, fully realised world is welcoming and fully accessible to Deaf and hearing children and families through the use of spoken English, sign language, and creative captions and animation.

Suitable for ages 3 - 8 and their families

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Mathilda is a little grey sheep in a little grey world. Her herd is content to munch clovers, but Mathilda's mind is full of questions.

When an orange balloon makes a surprise appearance on the farm, Mathilda discovers there is more to who she is than being a grey sheep! As she explores what it means to be orange, Mathilda leads us all on a journey of self-discovery and the joys of self-expression. Join Mathilda, her herd, and our narrators on stage and see how, with a little imagination and a big open mind, anything is possible! With a diverse cast of Deaf and hearing actors, Mathilda's tactile, fully realised world is welcoming and fully accessible to Deaf and hearing children and families through the use of spoken English, sign language, and creative captions and animation.

Suitable for ages 3 - 8 and their families

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An Eclipse Theatre Company, Bristol Old Vic and Hull Truck Theatre co-production

“My name is Phyllis Princess James. I will wear this crown every day. I will never take it off even when I am asleep.”

Meet Princess. A cheeky 10-year-old, with a plan to win the Weston-Super-Mare Beauty Contest. Trouble is, her mum is busy working several jobs, her brother, a budding photographer, won’t even take her picture and then – The Hustler returns.

In 1963 Bristol, as Black British Civil Rights campaigners walk onto the streets, Princess finds out what it really means to be black and beautiful.

Princess & The Hustler is the second national tour born from Revolution Mix – an Eclipse movement that is spearheading the largest ever delivery of New Black British stories. The first Revolution Mix story was last year’s sell-out production of Black Men Walking.

By Chinonyerem Odimba. Directed by Dawn Walton.

#PrincessandTheHustler

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Mathilda is a little grey sheep in a little grey world. Her herd is content to munch clovers, but Mathilda's mind is full of questions.

When an orange balloon makes a surprise appearance on the farm, Mathilda discovers there is more to who she is than being a grey sheep! As she explores what it means to be orange, Mathilda leads us all on a journey of self-discovery and the joys of self-expression. Join Mathilda, her herd, and our narrators on stage and see how, with a little imagination and a big open mind, anything is possible! With a diverse cast of Deaf and hearing actors, Mathilda's tactile, fully realised world is welcoming and fully accessible to Deaf and hearing children and families through the use of spoken English, sign language, and creative captions and animation.

Suitable for ages 3 - 8 and their families

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An Eclipse Theatre Company, Bristol Old Vic and Hull Truck Theatre co-production

“My name is Phyllis Princess James. I will wear this crown every day. I will never take it off even when I am asleep.”

Meet Princess. A cheeky 10-year-old, with a plan to win the Weston-Super-Mare Beauty Contest. Trouble is, her mum is busy working several jobs, her brother, a budding photographer, won’t even take her picture and then – The Hustler returns.

In 1963 Bristol, as Black British Civil Rights campaigners walk onto the streets, Princess finds out what it really means to be black and beautiful.

Princess & The Hustler is the second national tour born from Revolution Mix – an Eclipse movement that is spearheading the largest ever delivery of New Black British stories. The first Revolution Mix story was last year’s sell-out production of Black Men Walking.

By Chinonyerem Odimba. Directed by Dawn Walton.

#PrincessandTheHustler

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10 years ago, YolanDa Brown was studying a PhD in Management Science when a career in music came calling.
10 years on, the double MOBO award winner is the premier female saxophonist in the UK.
Known for her unique fusion of Reggae, Jazz and Soul, this concert features music from her critically acclaimed albums, plus many crowd favourites.
YolanDa has toured with Diana Krall, The Temptations and Billy Ocean; and collaborated with artists such as Snarky Puppy’s Bill Laurance, reggae legend Bob Marley’s son Julian, and the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra.
She has played to Presidents and Heads of States, is a celebrity ambassador for The Prince’s Trust and Chair of Youth Music Trust
2019 will see YolanDa with her very own TV series commissioned by BBC Cbeebies Called YolanDa’s Jam Band.

This is an evening filled with sunshine music and not to be missed.

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Presented by Nod At The Fox.
Created and performed by Eden Harbud.

"If it’s likely something you want to do is going to go very VERY badly... then it’s probably not worth doing, right?”

Definitely categorically 100% based on true events; through music, absurd soulful metaphors and chain smoking puppets, Eden tells the emotional and tragic tale of an exponentially unfortunate fox…

Don’t be fooled by the cuddly toys. If you thought this was going to be a children’s show… You thought wrong.

After his resounding success at the latest Pulse Festival Ipswich, Eden Harbud returns under the name of his new company: Nod At The Fox. Burning Tails has so far been seen by audiences in London, Brighton, Ipswich, Hertfordshire & Cambridge.

Age guide 14+

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We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead!

So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage with a brand new West End show that has never toured before - featuring all new scenes!

Would you be shaken or stirred by Richard III? Mount a mutiny against King Henry VIII! See Mary Tudor knock the spots off Mary Queen of Scots! Will Queen Elizabeth I endure her terrible teeth? Would you be hanged by King James I for being a witch? Peep into the world of Samuel Pepys and help Georgian detectives find the headless man! Take a trip into the night with the night soil men and discover how to survive the first ever train ride!

It's the history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!

Suitable for ages 5+ and their families

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We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead!

So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage with a brand new West End show that has never toured before - featuring all new scenes!

Would you be shaken or stirred by Richard III? Mount a mutiny against King Henry VIII! See Mary Tudor knock the spots off Mary Queen of Scots! Will Queen Elizabeth I endure her terrible teeth? Would you be hanged by King James I for being a witch? Peep into the world of Samuel Pepys and help Georgian detectives find the headless man! Take a trip into the night with the night soil men and discover how to survive the first ever train ride!

It's the history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!

Suitable for ages 5+ and their families

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We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead!

So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage with a brand new West End show that has never toured before - featuring all new scenes!

Would you be shaken or stirred by Richard III? Mount a mutiny against King Henry VIII! See Mary Tudor knock the spots off Mary Queen of Scots! Will Queen Elizabeth I endure her terrible teeth? Would you be hanged by King James I for being a witch? Peep into the world of Samuel Pepys and help Georgian detectives find the headless man! Take a trip into the night with the night soil men and discover how to survive the first ever train ride!

It's the history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!

Suitable for ages 5+ and their families

Full performance details

A few more details ...

We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead!

So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage with a brand new West End show that has never toured before - featuring all new scenes!

Would you be shaken or stirred by Richard III? Mount a mutiny against King Henry VIII! See Mary Tudor knock the spots off Mary Queen of Scots! Will Queen Elizabeth I endure her terrible teeth? Would you be hanged by King James I for being a witch? Peep into the world of Samuel Pepys and help Georgian detectives find the headless man! Take a trip into the night with the night soil men and discover how to survive the first ever train ride!

It's the history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!

Suitable for ages 5+ and their families

Full performance details

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We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead!

So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage with a brand new West End show that has never toured before - featuring all new scenes!

Would you be shaken or stirred by Richard III? Mount a mutiny against King Henry VIII! See Mary Tudor knock the spots off Mary Queen of Scots! Will Queen Elizabeth I endure her terrible teeth? Would you be hanged by King James I for being a witch? Peep into the world of Samuel Pepys and help Georgian detectives find the headless man! Take a trip into the night with the night soil men and discover how to survive the first ever train ride!

It's the history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!

Suitable for ages 5+ and their families

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‘Tighten your laces, look to the band and don't let your knees hit the ground.’

Ray is a young man with a big night ahead of him. Led by his very own backing band, The Raylettes, he's going to dance until the end of life.

A tale of resilience, strength and the need to just stay on your feet, The Letter Room present a sweat soaked marathon with a Northern Soul. Packed with live music and wall-to-wall dancing, No Miracles Here is an anthem to feeling alive and keeping the faith.

Made in association with Mind, with support from the Royal Shakespeare Company, Northern Stage and Shoreditch Town Hall.

The Letter Room is a North East theatre company telling stories full of raucous live music.

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A message from Ian McKellen:

I’m celebrating my 80th birthday by touring a new solo show to theatres I know well and a few that I don’t. The show starts with Gandalf and will probably end with an invitation to act with me on stage. In-between there will be anecdotes and acting. I open at my local arts centre in January and end up by August in Orkney.

Live theatre has always been thrilling to me, as an actor and in the audience. Growing up in Lancashire, I was grateful to those companies who toured beyond London and I’ve always enjoyed repaying that debt by touring up and down the country myself, with the RSC, the National Theatre, Prospect Theatre, the Actors’ Company, as well as with commercial productions.

In 1962 I joined the repertory company at the now defunct Arts Theatre in Tower Street playing everything from Henry V to ‘comic Chinese policeman’ in Aladdin. Now I’m returning to Ipswich to make my debut at the New Wolsey. See you there, I hope!

Ian’s motivation for doing this tour is to give something back to theatres around the country that have played an important part in his career. The profits generated from these performances will go directly towards our Education and Community Programmes, enabling us to continue to carry out work in our local communities with children, young people, teachers and life-long learners. We hope you can support us in raising these vital funds and join us for what is going to be a very exciting evening.

Please note that due to demand tickets are limited to a maximum of 5 per person and cannot be reserved.
Please ensure you are logged in to the website to place your order.

Our PRE SALE to PRIORITY MEMBERS opens at 10am on Saturday 10 November. Become a member and book now, using the link below:

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Brought to you by the makers of Shoe Baby, Flyaway Katie, Arthur’s Dream Boat, Pat-a-Cake Baby and Penguin.

When Doris and Delilah wake up to find something strange and sparkly has fallen from the sky, they are inspired to put on the world’s greatest magic show! But HOW do you make real magic happen? What ingredients do you need and who can help them?

Along the way they encounter some fabulous characters; a transformative moth, a giant singing frog, an artistic spider and a sassy glow-worm who all help to create their dream.

Will the conjuring trick work and will anything EVER come out of the hat?

A story about friendship and true magic. Full to the brim with lively songs by the talented Tom Gray of Gomez that will have everyone joining in!

It’s a spectacular theatre experience for all ages-especially 2-8 year olds!

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Brought to you by the makers of Shoe Baby, Flyaway Katie, Arthur’s Dream Boat, Pat-a-Cake Baby and Penguin.

When Doris and Delilah wake up to find something strange and sparkly has fallen from the sky, they are inspired to put on the world’s greatest magic show! But HOW do you make real magic happen? What ingredients do you need and who can help them?

Along the way they encounter some fabulous characters; a transformative moth, a giant singing frog, an artistic spider and a sassy glow-worm who all help to create their dream.

Will the conjuring trick work and will anything EVER come out of the hat?

A story about friendship and true magic. Full to the brim with lively songs by the talented Tom Gray of Gomez that will have everyone joining in!

It’s a spectacular theatre experience for all ages-especially 2-8 year olds!

Full performance details

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A message from Ian McKellen:

I’m celebrating my 80th birthday by touring a new solo show to theatres I know well and a few that I don’t. The show starts with Gandalf and will probably end with an invitation to act with me on stage. In-between there will be anecdotes and acting. I open at my local arts centre in January and end up by August in Orkney.

Live theatre has always been thrilling to me, as an actor and in the audience. Growing up in Lancashire, I was grateful to those companies who toured beyond London and I’ve always enjoyed repaying that debt by touring up and down the country myself, with the RSC, the National Theatre, Prospect Theatre, the Actors’ Company, as well as with commercial productions.

In 1962 I joined the repertory company at the now defunct Arts Theatre in Tower Street playing everything from Henry V to ‘comic Chinese policeman’ in Aladdin. Now I’m returning to Ipswich to make my debut at the New Wolsey. See you there, I hope!

Ian’s motivation for doing this tour is to give something back to theatres around the country that have played an important part in his career. The profits generated from these performances will go directly towards our Education and Community Programmes, enabling us to continue to carry out work in our local communities with children, young people, teachers and life-long learners. We hope you can support us in raising these vital funds and join us for what is going to be a very exciting evening.

Please note that due to demand tickets are limited to a maximum of 5 per person and cannot be reserved.
Please ensure you are logged in to the website to place your order.

Our PRE SALE to PRIORITY MEMBERS opens at 10am on Saturday 10 November. Become a member and book now, using the link below:

Full performance details

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A message from Ian McKellen:

I’m celebrating my 80th birthday by touring a new solo show to theatres I know well and a few that I don’t. The show starts with Gandalf and will probably end with an invitation to act with me on stage. In-between there will be anecdotes and acting. I open at my local arts centre in January and end up by August in Orkney.

Live theatre has always been thrilling to me, as an actor and in the audience. Growing up in Lancashire, I was grateful to those companies who toured beyond London and I’ve always enjoyed repaying that debt by touring up and down the country myself, with the RSC, the National Theatre, Prospect Theatre, the Actors’ Company, as well as with commercial productions.

In 1962 I joined the repertory company at the now defunct Arts Theatre in Tower Street playing everything from Henry V to ‘comic Chinese policeman’ in Aladdin. Now I’m returning to Ipswich to make my debut at the New Wolsey. See you there, I hope!

Ian’s motivation for doing this tour is to give something back to theatres around the country that have played an important part in his career. The profits generated from these performances will go directly towards our Education and Community Programmes, enabling us to continue to carry out work in our local communities with children, young people, teachers and life-long learners. We hope you can support us in raising these vital funds and join us for what is going to be a very exciting evening.

Please note that due to demand tickets are limited to a maximum of 5 per person and cannot be reserved.
Please ensure you are logged in to the website to place your order.

Our PRE SALE to PRIORITY MEMBERS opens at 10am on Saturday 10 November. Become a member and book now, using the link below:

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A one-man musical comedy by award-winning duo Tom Wells (words) and Matthew Robins (music)

Liam is 15 and he’s just signed up for Bev Road Baths’ first ever synchronised swimming team. It’s for his best mate Caz really. She needs to get a team together to win the annual Project Prize at school. She tries every year. She always loses. But Liam’s an optimist, he’s determined to help.

There’s just one problem. Liam can’t swim.

Age guide 14+

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by Anna Beecher and Rachel Lincoln

A stunning multi-sensory experience for pre-walking babies and their parents and carers.

Unfolding in a custom-built performance tent, Nest takes audiences on a journey through the seasons, using playful poetry, sound and song, captivating movement and tactile and sensory play. Gentle, surprising and magical.

Audiences say:
'Exceptional...every single element was spot on'
'There was a sense of wonder and excitement. My child was enchanted'
'The best half hour of my child's life!'

In association with artsdepot
Anna Beecher and Rachel Lincoln are an international associate artist/company of Farnham Maltings.

Age range: Pre-walking babies (guideline 0-14 months)
nestbabyshow.com

TICKETS: 1 ticket is allocated per parent and baby pair

Full performance details

A few more details ...

by Anna Beecher and Rachel Lincoln

A stunning multi-sensory experience for pre-walking babies and their parents and carers.

Unfolding in a custom-built performance tent, Nest takes audiences on a journey through the seasons, using playful poetry, sound and song, captivating movement and tactile and sensory play. Gentle, surprising and magical.

Audiences say:
'Exceptional...every single element was spot on'
'There was a sense of wonder and excitement. My child was enchanted'
'The best half hour of my child's life!'

In association with artsdepot
Anna Beecher and Rachel Lincoln are an international associate artist/company of Farnham Maltings.

Age range: Pre-walking babies (guideline 0-14 months)
nestbabyshow.com

TICKETS: 1 ticket is allocated per parent and baby pair

Full performance details

A few more details ...

by Anna Beecher and Rachel Lincoln

A stunning multi-sensory experience for pre-walking babies and their parents and carers.

Unfolding in a custom-built performance tent, Nest takes audiences on a journey through the seasons, using playful poetry, sound and song, captivating movement and tactile and sensory play. Gentle, surprising and magical.

Audiences say:
'Exceptional...every single element was spot on'
'There was a sense of wonder and excitement. My child was enchanted'
'The best half hour of my child's life!'

In association with artsdepot
Anna Beecher and Rachel Lincoln are an international associate artist/company of Farnham Maltings.

Age range: Pre-walking babies (guideline 0-14 months)
nestbabyshow.com

TICKETS: 1 ticket is allocated per parent and baby pair

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

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“I wait whilst the world carries on
whilst my family grow old
whilst my lovers move on
and I count down the days
and I wait”

Created in collaboration with inmates at HMP Wandsworth and written by Luke Barnes, this intimate and powerful new piece explores the stories of people behind bars and the resilience they need to face a world that moves without them.

Age guide 14+

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

If you’re 3 or 4 years old and love silly stories and tremendous tales then you’ve got to come and meet the Storymaker at the New Wolsey Theatre.

Mums, Dads, Grans, Grandads, big brothers and big sisters should come too, they can look after you and pick up some tips along the way.

Storymaker takes place in the upstairs foyer of the theatre where the children sit on cushions around the Storymaker chair.

NOTE: You only need to book tickets for children.

Full performance details

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If you’re 5 or 6 you can leave your family downstairs in the New Wolsey Café Bar and come upstairs to meet the Storymaker yourself for an amazing adventure, or an exciting escapade.

Mums, Dads, Grans, Grandads, siblings can come too, but they’ll have to join in with the fun.

Storymaker takes place in the upstairs foyer of the theatre where the children sit on cushions around the Storymaker chair.

NOTE: You only need to book tickets for children.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

Touch Tours for Kiss Me Quickstep will start at 6:45pm on Wednesday 20th March and 1.30pm on Saturday 23rd March.
Meet at the Box Office. Please only book in as many places as are needed as numbers re limited for these events.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

Touch Tours for Kiss Me Quickstep will start at 6:45pm on Wednesday 20th March and 1.30pm on Saturday 23rd March.
Meet at the Box Office. Please only book in as many places as are needed as numbers re limited for these events.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

A sequin-studded warm-hearted ballroom drama

Three young couples are striving for glory on the competitive dance circuit - having finally made it to Blackpool's National Amateur Championships via the motorway hard shoulder.

But there's pain and heartbreak beneath the dazzling glitter ball when you're dancing to other people's tunes and hiding secrets.‎ And with the world at your feet, it only takes one false step...

This bittersweet comedy reveals the backstage stories behind the fabulous frocks, fixed smiles and fake tan, looking at the real lives of those for whom dancing is everything.

Please note that we have an exciting new seating plan for Kiss Me Quickstep with an additional bank of seats behind the stage. This show will be performed in the round, with actors performing to all sides. If you have any questions about this seating plan please speak to one of our ticket sales assistants on 01473 295900.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

Maggie returns in her smash hit drag extravaganza!

Following four sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe, the Iron Lady is back and more fabulous than ever.

On the eve of the vote on Section 28, Maggie gets lost in Soho and accidentally becomes a cabaret superstar. Will she change her mind about the homophobic bill before it's too late…? A big gay odyssey about LGBT rights, the 80s and disco created by Olivier Award winner Jon Brittain and Matt Tedford.

Suitable for ages 16+

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Rhum and Clay bring to the stage Dario Fo's seminal master piece, Mistero Buffo – a daring and explosive rallying cry for the disenfranchised.

A travelling storyteller, another employee of the gig economy, rushes from his last delivery of the day to recount ancient tales of Jesus and his life... however these versions aren't like any you've heard before. Darkly comic, sometimes tragic and always subversive, Mistero Buffo takes aim at those who manipulate truth and belief for power and control.

Directed by Nicholas Pitt and starring Julian Spooner this award-winning update of a classic was one of the big hits of the 2018 Edinburgh festival.

Full performance details

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Imagine a night where Pharrell Williams croons with Judy Garland, Ricky Martin scats with Cab Calloway, and Maroon 5 groove with Ella Fitzgerald - that night is here! In a fusion of unforgettable showmanship, these four masters of mashup, with their effortless vocals and sublime harmonies, will whisk you back to the golden age of big bands but with an incredibly unique twist! It's like Sinatra started a band with Bruno Mars!

Even before their acclaimed appearance on the hit BBC show "Pitch Battle", The FlyBoys were travelling the world wowing audiences with an unforgettable marriage of vintage and modern music delivered in delicious four part harmony. Having recently performed with the world famous Glenn Miller Orchestra in the US, and received rave reviews at their 27 night run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, The FlyBoys recently supported Cliff Richard on his 60th Anniversary Tour in October, The FlyBoys are delighted to be appearing at The New Wolsey Theatre.

‘A rip roaring show absolutely bursting with talent, dance, and comedy.’ - Edinburgh Guide

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Imagine designing your own planet. What colour would the sea be? How many legs would a donkey have? What would the farts smell like? Well now’s your chance to choose!

Zoom through the weird and wonderful wormhole alongside Gill and Boo, a couple of crafty World Builders (and clowns) with a ground-breaking plan to build a brand new, fully-functioning planet!

Help them escape from the sinister Robo-Cops, play super silly games with the infamous four-footed gameshow host, Legs Dennis, and meet the mysterious rulers of a distant galaxy who come bearing strange plans, and even stranger sandwiches.
You’ll find everything to play for, and every reason to play, in this interactive theatrical spectacular about making things right; nominated for the Brighton Fringe Best Family Show Award 2018.

Suitable for ages 4 to 4000. Extra-terrestrials welcome.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

Imagine designing your own planet. What colour would the sea be? How many legs would a donkey have? What would the farts smell like? Well now’s your chance to choose!

Zoom through the weird and wonderful wormhole alongside Gill and Boo, a couple of crafty World Builders (and clowns) with a ground-breaking plan to build a brand new, fully-functioning planet!

Help them escape from the sinister Robo-Cops, play super silly games with the infamous four-footed gameshow host, Legs Dennis, and meet the mysterious rulers of a distant galaxy who come bearing strange plans, and even stranger sandwiches.
You’ll find everything to play for, and every reason to play, in this interactive theatrical spectacular about making things right; nominated for the Brighton Fringe Best Family Show Award 2018.

Suitable for ages 4 to 4000. Extra-terrestrials welcome.

Full performance details

A few more details ...

Barely Methodical Troupe follow up their international smash hits BROMANCE and KIN with SHIFT an explosive display of power-based acrobatics.

Marooned in an unstable environment, the acrobats use all available resources – string games, story telling, rubber bands…… pushing physical performance to its limits to pull through.

Core BMT members, big man Louis Gift and international cyr wheeling star Charlie Wheeller are joined by Spain’s leading break dancer Elihu Vazquez and top Swedish acrobat and flyer Esmeralda Nikolajeff.

Commissioned by Norfolk & Norwich Festival; co-produced by Norfolk & Norwich Festival and DREAM.

Age guide 8+

Full performance details

A few more details ...

Barely Methodical Troupe follow up their international smash hits BROMANCE and KIN with SHIFT an explosive display of power-based acrobatics.

Marooned in an unstable environment, the acrobats use all available resources – string games, story telling, rubber bands…… pushing physical performance to its limits to pull through.

Core BMT members, big man Louis Gift and international cyr wheeling star Charlie Wheeller are joined by Spain’s leading break dancer Elihu Vazquez and top Swedish acrobat and flyer Esmeralda Nikolajeff.

Commissioned by Norfolk & Norwich Festival; co-produced by Norfolk & Norwich Festival and DREAM.

Age guide 8+

Full performance details