JANMAY 2017
www.live.org.uk See life’s drama unfold at Livewww.live.org.uk Theatre 1
LIVE THEATRE
Contents PAGE
4-5 LIVE THEATRE PRODUCTIONS World-class new plays produced by Live Theatre 6-9
IVE LAB: NEW WORK L IN DEVELOPMENT Emerging new work and artists, plus networking and career development for theatre makers 10-15 VISITING THEATRE New plays from other regional and national companies 16-17 WORK BY, FROM AND WITH YOUNG PEOPLE Plays made with and for young people, and Live Tales creative writing workshops 18-19 LIVE MUSIC Musicians presented by Jumpin’ Hot Club in association with Live Theatre 20-24 GET INVOLVED Find out about volunteering, support for teachers, becoming a Friend or joining Live’s Youth Theatre 25 OUR SPACES Visit Live Garden or hire one of Live Theatre’s indoor or outdoor spaces 26-30 PLAN YOUR VISIT How to find us, tickets, seating and further information 31 EVENT CALENDAR Find out what’s on
2 Box Office (0191) 232 1232
LIVE THEATRE IS VERY GRATEFUL FOR THE SUPPORT OF: Catherine Cookson Charitable Trust, The D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust, Gillian Dickinson Trust, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Sir James Knott Trust, MACSunderland Music Arts and Culture Trust, The R.W. Mann Trust, The Monument Trust, The Shears Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation and The Wolfson Foundation.
Welcome Welcome to our January to May 2017 programme. This season I am delighted to be working with Patrick Marber, directing his play The Red Lion starring Stephen Tompkinson who I am pleased to welcome back to Live Theatre’s stage following his performance here in Faith and Cold Reading. In February Live Theatre holds its second Elevator festival, a week-long celebration of new work and talent development including work by this year’s Live Lab Associate Artists Cloakroom Theatre. In our visiting theatre programme we welcome Good Dog, new work from exciting theatre company tiata fahodzi, Good Grief, another compelling production from Soho Theatre, performed by BBC Radio’s Jack Rooke, and Open Clasp’s new show Sugar, looking at women in and out of prison. Our Live Tales sessions have proved popular with young people, teachers and volunteers, with sessions available for schools to book until the end of this academic year. Our Youth Theatre continues to grow and produce outstanding thought-provoking work which can be seen in A Suitcase. A Toothbrush. A Ball. in March. We look to develop our education and participation work through an exciting partnership in the new Fire Station project in Sunderland (more news to follow later in the year). I am also delighted to announce Mobile, an intimate show in a caravan, our co-production with The Paper Birds, will tour the UK extensively throughout 2017. Max Roberts Artistic Director Live Theatre
Corporate Partners
Educational Partners
Funders
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LIVE THEATRE PRODUCTION
4 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
LIVE THEATRE PRODUCTION
THURSDAY 6 APRIL - SATURDAY 6 MAY
THE RED LION A Live Theatre Production Written by Patrick Marber Directed by Max Roberts Starring Stephen Tompkinson
If you thought that badge-kissing mercenaries, wide-boy agents and dodgy deals were confined to the Premier League, think again. Set in the ultra-competitive twilight world of semi-professional football, The Red Lion is a powerful, funny and touching drama that reaches beyond the beautiful game, exploring contrasting ideas about loyalty, ambition and what it takes to win, from three different generations. This production stars Stephen Tompkinson (Faith and Cold Reading), with a script specially adapted by the writer for Live Theatre and the North East, following its critically acclaimed opening in 2016 at the National Theatre.
‘Marber’s dressing room drama is a remarkable three-hander about a sport he clearly knows intimately’
HHHH The Guardian
‘a triumph’ The Telegraph
POST SHOW TALK
Meet the Writer
SATURDAY 8 APRIL (after 2pm show) Writer Patrick Marber discusses the writing of the play and adapting it for Newcastle. FREE, booking essential Suitable for Artsmark visits.
THEATRE Approx. 2hrs Suitable for ages 16+ APRIL Thu 6 7.30pm P 241 Fri 7 7.30pm P Sat 8 2pm P 7.30pm P 241 TALK Tue 11 7.30pm O Wed 12 7.30pm Thu 13 2pm 7.30pm EASTER BREAK CLOSED Tue 18 7.30pm Wed 19 7.30pm Thu 20 2pm 7.30pm Fri 21 7.30pm Sat 22 2pm 7.30pm Tue 25 7.30pm Wed 26 7.30pm Thu 27 2pm 7.30pm Fri 28 7.30pm Sat 29 2pm 7.30pm MAY Tues 2 Wed 3 Thu 4 2pm Fri 5 Sat 6 1pm 2pm
7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm
£14-£10, over 60s £12, other concs £6 Youth Theatre Members £3 £18-£12, over 60s concs £16, other concs £10 £22-£15, over 60s £22, other concs £15 £26-£18, over 60s £26, other concs £18
KEY TO SYMBOLS P Preview Performance O Opening Night 241 Friends 241 TALK Post Show Talk BSL Captioned Audio Described Free Touch Tour Relaxed Performance Please see page 27 for information on our assisted performances.
www.live.org.uk 5
LIVE LAB: TALENT DEVELOPMENT
TUE 21 FEB 7.30PM
WRITING POLITICAL THEATRE PANEL DISCUSSION Britain has a rich tradition of political playwriting. An industry panel hosted by Live Theatre’s Literary Manager Gez Casey discusses how to theatrically capture political debate in a chaotic, media driven, post-truth 21st century. Followed by a Q&A session. THEATRE Approx. 1 hr 20 mins Suitable for ages 14+ FREE, booking essential
Live Lab is Live Theatre’s talent development programme providing creative opportunities, mentoring and support for playwrights and theatre makers from the North East and beyond. Live Lab provides networking and career development opportunities for theatre practitioners at all stages of their careers. Live Lab Elevator is an annual festival of exciting new theatre. Specially curated from the Live Lab programme, brand new theatre productions are put centre stage alongside participatory events including workshops and discussions. Be the first to see emerging new work at the earliest stages of its development, help shape its future and join in conversations with leading theatre-makers from across the UK.
6 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
LIVE LAB: TALENT DEVELOPMENT
THU 23 FEB 2PM
LIVE LAB ELEVATOR DOUBLE BILL
WED 22 & FRI 24 FEB 7.30PM
DEVISED THEATRE WORKSHOP
PARKLIFE Presented by The Six Twenty Written by Mhairi Ledgerwood Directed by Melanie Rashbrooke With the Earth under water, V now lives on a ‘21st Century Noah’s Ark’. She must adapt to a new life, while still being haunted by memories of the old one. A play that examines the choices we make, and what we must do in order to survive. This play began as short play in 10 Minutes To… in 2014, and has been supported through Live Lab to be developed into to an hour long piece.
SEX WITH ROBOTS AND OTHER DEVICES Presented by Cloakroom Theatre Written by Nessah Muthy
Winner of the 2016 Live Lab Bursary
It’s 2018. Except, it feels like 2050, or a different planet. Trust us, it’s definitely 2018.
Ahead of their performance of Blackout, fanSHEN explore the process of creating sensory theatre. Whether you are a theatre professional or budding theatre maker this workshop provides a fascinating insight into the creation of new performance work and the practice of this innovative theatre company. STUDIO Approx. 2hrs Suitable for ages 14+ FREE, booking essential
Your neighbours can’t have children, so they buy them. Your dad is lonely (and let’s face it, horny) so he sources some pretty interesting company. Your best friend has started dating someone you’ve never met, and never will. Sex with Robots is the new play by Nessah Muthy (Gastronauts, Royal Court Theatre) which explores the normality of using advanced technology in our dayto-day love lives, and the moral implications that come with being able to buy whatever you desire the most. THEATRE Approx. 2hrs 20mins, incl. interval Suitable for ages 14+ £8, £6 concs
www.live.org.uk 7
LIVE LAB: TALENT DEVELOPMENT
THU 23 FEB 7.30PM
SAT 25 FEB 11AM
SAT 25 FEB 4PM & 6PM
WORK-INPROGRESS
DIRECTOR’S MASTERCLASS: STAGING TEXT
BLACKOUT
An evening of work-inprogress performances in which extracts of larger pieces will be performed with a view to how they will be shaped in the future. These includes Scrambled, a new piece by Plane Paper Theatre, current Live Lab associate artists. Scrambled explores the emotional impact of assisted reproductive technology, motherhood and the psychological effects of infertility. When Beth is unable to conceive, she turns to her sister for help and to donate one of her own eggs. The sisters embark on an emotional and physical journey together that they had never imagined. A visceral and darkly comic investigation of the lengths some women will go to have children.
How does a director approach a new play for the first time? There are many approaches to directing plays and Live Theatre has been home to most of them. In this participatory workshop two of the UK’s leading theatre directors will explore how a director works with text. How they form ideas and translate those to the stage. This workshop, open to anyone with an interest in directing, is a fantastic opportunity to learn the secrets of bringing new plays to life. STUDIO Approx. 3 hrs Suitable for ages 14+ £8, £6 concs
THEATRE Approx. 40 mins Suitable for ages 14+ £6
Follow @Live_Lab on twitter and see www.live.org.uk/livelab for further announcements about the Live Lab Elevator 2017 programme. 8 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
Presented by fanSHEN If seeing is believing, what can you believe when you’re in complete darkness? Blackout explores what happens when you escape from bland certainty of sight. Where does your imagination take you? Does time follow the same rules when you can’t see the hands of your watch? When do you start to notice all of the sounds that make up silence? And what stories do you tell yourself to make sense of it all? Take part in a moment of reflection, an outing into the unexpected, a sensory adventure, all from the safety of a darkened room… See this brand new piece by fanSHEN who were Live Lab 2015 Bursary winners to develop Lists for the End of the World for last years’ Elevator festival. STUDIO Approx. 40mins Suitable for ages 14+ £5
LIVE LAB: TALENT DEVELOPMENT
SAT 13 & SUN 14 MAY 10AM-5PM
SUN 28 MAY 8PM
BECOME A PLAYWRIGHT AN INTRODUCTORY COURSE
10 MINUTES TO…
Live Theatre is committed to nurturing new writers as well as writers who are keen to convert their existing writing skills to the stage. This weekend course is led by Live Theatre’s Literary Manager and covers key elements of playwriting including narrative development, theatrical development, character progression and structure. Recent course graduates Paddy Campbell (Wet House), Nina Berry (The Terminal Velocity of Snowflakes) and Alison Carr (Iris) have all had work produced on Live Theatre’s stages.
10 Minutes to..., Live Lab’s brilliant showcase for some of the region’s best new directors and playwrights, is back. Based on the theme of 10 Minutes to…. Reach Inside five new ten minute plays by five writers will be produced over one exhilarating weekend. For details on an open call out to be involved as a writer or director follow @Live_Lab on twitter or see www.live.org.uk THEATRE Approx. 1hr Suitable for ages 14+ £6
Application closing date: Sun 2 Apr Successful applicants notified: Fri 7 Apr Live Theatre in partnership with Free. Limited places. For more information and details on how to apply see www.live.org.uk/livelab
Waka Waka is offering up to 8 bursaries for young people (aged 16-25) of African Caribbean Heritage to learn playwriting from Live Theatre practitioners (see page 21).
Live Theatre also offers an online course that teaches the art of playwriting. Find out more at www.beaplaywright.com www.live.org.uk 9
VISITING THEATRE
FRIDAY 27 & SATURDAY 28 JANUARY 8PM
EACH PIECE Presented by Northumbria University in partnership with Live Theatre Written and Directed by Steve Gilroy Music by Richard Dawson “You know, the next time we meet? I won’t know you … I won’t even remember saying this.” The diagnosis of dementia changes everything forever. Each Piece reveals the experiences of those whose lives are dramatically impacted by dementia; a husband, wife or partner is now the carer, members of the family can’t come to terms with what’s happened and no one knows how long this journey will last. Award winning playwright Steve Gilroy (Motherland, The Prize) teams up with singer songwriter Richard Dawson to present Each Piece. This work-in-progress verbatim play is based on interviews with those living with dementia and their carers, supported by The Essence Service who help people in Sunderland with dementia to ensure they can have the best quality of life for as long as possible. 10 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
STUDIO Approx. 60mins incl. interval Suitable for ages 12+ JANUARY Fri 27 Sat 28
8pm 8pm
£6 POST SHOW TALKS FRI 27 & SAT 28 MAR FREE, booking essential Suitable for Artsmark visits.
VISITING THEATRE
WEDNESDAY 1 MARCH 7.30PM
GOOD DOG Produced by tiata fahodzi and Watford Palace Theatre Written by Arinzé Kene Directed by Natalie Ibu
THEATRE Approx. 2hrs incl. interval Suitable for ages 12+ MARCH Wed 1
7.30pm
£10-£14, over 60s concs £12, other concs £6
Mum’s promised him that bike so even when school or homelife bites, he knows to keep his chin up, his head down and his shirt clean. No harsh word, no sudden push to the ground will distract him from growing up to be a good man. Because in the end, everyone who’s good gets what they deserve. Don’t they? good dog – set during the early noughties - tells the story of growing up in a multi-cultural community, and the everyday injustices that drive people to take back control. Go back in time and experience the 2000s through the eyes of Mrs Blackwood, waiting for the day her husband notices her, or Old Man Boateng waiting for the day he gets bored of drinking. Delicately observed and fearlessly told by the star of Netflix’s Crazyhead, Eastenders and Channel 4’s Youngers, Arinzé Kene who The Guardian called ‘one of Britain’s most exciting young playwrights’. www.live.org.uk 11
VISITING THEATRE
FRIDAY 10 & SATURDAY 11 MARCH 7.30PM
SUGAR Produced by Open Clasp Written by Catrina McHugh Directed by Laura Lindow Tracy doesn’t like the unpredictable coz it can unsettle but her eye is bleeding and she’s behind with the hostel’s rent. Julie leaves the prison tomorrow. She will have to walk past the pub, smell the laughter and taste the songs as they spill out of the doors and windows. She’ll want to drink, do drugs but she won’t, this is her last time. Annie is late, her sandal is broken, the strap flapping loose and no-one is stopping to ask her why. These stories are three and at the same time one. Sugar exposes the routes into prison, life behind bars and the revolving door that catapults women back. Continuing a long association between Live Theatre and Open Clasp, Sugar is a chance to see Open Clasp’s new production at an exciting first stage of development, following on from their multi-award winning play Key Change. Sugar has been devised with women in HMP Low Newton, Women’s Direct Access Homelessness Service and women on probation attending a Women’s Hub at West End Women & Girls Centre. 12 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
THEATRE Approx. 1hr 30mins Suitable for ages 14+ MARCH Fri 10 Sat 11 2.00pm
7.30pm 7.30pm
£10-£14, over 60s concs £12, other concs £6 POST SHOW TALK
Meet the Team
FRI 10 MAR (after 7.30pm show) FREE, booking essential Suitable for Artsmark visits.
VISITING THEATRE
WEDNESDAY 10 & THURSDAY 11 MAY 7.30PM
JACK ROOKE: GOOD GRIEF Produced by Soho Theatre and Jack Rooke With a coffin full of sympathy snacks, Jack Rooke and his 85year old Nan Sicely invite you to the happiest town in Britain, where Dad’s dead and the only thing to eat is lasagne. Celebrating finding happiness after tragedy, Rooke’s critically acclaimed debut blends comedy, storytelling and film to explore how we treat the bereaved and the state of welfare for grieving families.
THEATRE Approx. 1hr Suitable for ages 14+, contains strong language MAY Wed 10 Thu 11
7.30pm 7.30pm
£10-£14, over 60s concs £12, other concs £6 POST SHOW TALK WITH JACK ROOKE THU 11 MAY (after 7.30pm show) FREE, booking essential Suitable for Artsmark visits.
Another compelling production from Soho Theatre, Good Grief was shortlisted for the Best Show by an Emerging Artist in the Total Theatre Awards 2015. Jack Rooke is a comedian, writer and regular panellist for BBC Radio 1’s The Surgery. He has presented a BBC Radio 4 comedy adaptation of Good Grief and his own BBC Three documentary about happiness, due to air in early 2017.
“Engaging, frank and humourous” The New York Times
“Good Grief wins you over with openness and hilarity” Lyn Gardner, The Guardian
www.live.org.uk 13
VISITING THEATRE
FRIDAY 19 MAY 8PM
MIXTAPE: THE 90s Presented by The Six Twenty Created & Directed by Melanie Rashbrooke
THEATRE Approx. 1hr 45mins, incl. interval Suitable for ages 14+, contains some explicit content MAY Fri 19
8pm
£10, £8 concs
There ain’t no party like a Mixtape party! Comedy sketch troupe Mixtape are back at Live Theatre with a brand new 90s inspired show. Mixtape is a music quiz comedy extravaganza like no other. In celebration of this most bangin’ decade, Mixtape bring you a show crammed full of super fly 90s hits. From boy bands to dance anthems, grunge and summer hits this show’s gonna be off the chain. Know your Spice Girls from your S-Club? Your Offspring from your Green Day? Dig out your 90s crop tops and Docs, brush off your Discman, and bring a team along and see who will win the highly coveted Golden Mixtape trophy! Boo ya!
14 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
HHHHH “Flawless”
Remote Goat
“a very special, unique and utterly brilliant show” NARC
VISITING THEATRE
TUESDAY 23 & WEDNESDAY 24 MAY 8PM
LETTERS TO MYSELF Written and produced by Becci Sharrock Directed by Allie Butler Dear Heart
STUDIO Approx. 1hr 10mins Suitable for 16+, some strong language and adult themes MAY Tue 23 Wed 24
8pm 8pm
£8, £6 concs
Dear Me, You etc. I’ve been given the opportunity to write to you and realised there are a few things I’d like to say. You are bright, unique and capable of anything. You are really more precious than you can imagine. You don’t marry Keanu Reeves. I’m really sorry to break it to you. Created from letters written by real people, Letters to Myself is a heart-warming and humorous look at the best advice we never had. Taking a trip down memory lane it is a recognition of our shared regret and a celebration of our daily triumphs. Letters to Myself has been developed with advice and support in kind from Live Theatre, and support from Cultural Spring, and Arts Centre Washington. www.live.org.uk 15
PLAYS BY AND WITH YOUNG PEOPLE
SATURDAY 4 & SUNDAY 5 MARCH 7.30PM
A SUITCASE. A TOOTHBRUSH. A BALL. A suitcase. A toothbrush. A ball. How are all these things connected, if they connect at all? What are their stories? Where have they been? Who do they belong to? With the theme selected by the young people involved, each piece is devised and performed by members of Live’s Youth Theatre working with drama facilitators in Live Theatre’s youth theatre programme. An exciting weekend of extraordinary short plays based on three seemingly ordinary objects, with a selection of different plays from different groups performed each evening.
16 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
THEATRE Approx. 1hr 45mins, incl. interval Suitable for 8+ MARCH Sat 4 7.30pm Sun 5 7.30pm £8, £6 concs
For more information on Live’s Youth Theatre and the free drama programme it offers across the city for young people aged 11 to 25 see page 20.
FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE
LIVE TALES FREE STORY WRITING WORKSHOPS FOR KEY STAGE 2 CLASSES Live Theatre’s brand new creative writing centre for children and young people, Live Tales offers a free, fun and inspiring two hour workshop for Key Stage 2 classes. Pupils can let their imaginations run wild to write a completely original story. A class visit to Live Tales encourages and inspires children and young people to explore their imagination, develop communication skills and confidence whilst helping with writing progression.
THURSDAYS & FRIDAYS 10AM-12 NOON (DURING TERM TIME) LIVE TALES (situated just behind Live Theatre) 2hrs Suitable for Key Stage 2 classes (ages 7-11) Curriculum links to English, Creative Writing, Writing Progression FREE, must be booked in advance
Live Tales currently offers a workshop specially designed for school visits for young people in Key Stage 2 (ages 7-11).
INSPIRING CREATIVE WRITING CPD FOR KEY STAGE 1 & 2 TEACHERS Hands-on CPD session to help teachers bring creativity back into creative writing. Drama-based activities and tested Live Tales techniques provide a toolkit teachers can use to unlock pupils’ imaginations. ‘Amazing experience. Session delivered with passion and enthusiasm.’ Year 5 Teacher For more information on Live Tales Workshops or teachers CPDs see www.live.org.uk/livetales. To book places contact Box Office on (0191) 232 1232. CPD sessions can also be booked online.
LIVE TALES Half day sessions Approx. 3hrs £100 per teacher (additional teachers from same school £70) JANUARY Mon 30 1pm JUNE Wed 14 9am Twilight sessions Approx. 2hrs £70 per teacher (additional teachers from same school £50) MARCH Thu 16 JUNE Thu 22
4pm 4pm
www.live.org.uk 17
LIVE MUSIC
FRI 20 JAN 8PM
THU 26 JAN 8PM
SUN 29 JAN 8PM
THE CACTUS BLOSSOMS (USA)
LINDSAY LOU & THE FLATBELLYS
BEN HUNTER, JOE SEAMONS AND PHIL WIGGINS
+ HOWLIN RIC & THE ROCKETEERS (UK)
Presented by Jumpin’ Hot Club The Cactus Blossoms’ 2016 debut, You’re Dreaming, garnered comparisons to classic sibling duos like The Everly Brothers. Jack Torrey and Page Burkhum found themselves drawn to classic folk and country music transforming a retro sound, the brothers have brought a breath of fresh air and vitality to the roots music scene.
(USA) + THIS LITTLE BIRD (UK)
Presented by Jumpin’ Hot Club Michigan’s bluegrass and roots quartet Lindsay Lou and the Flatbellys display scintillating musical prowess, swapping instruments and harmonising almost effortlessly. The overarching delight is that whilst bluegrass and folk are the Flatbellys’ roots and anchors, they soar above and beyond any unhealthy strictures that might apply. Lindsay Lou’s own phenomenal voice is their trump card, reminiscent in its often-joyous abandon of Eddi Reader or Lake Street Dive’s Rachael Price.
THEATRE
THEATRE
Approx. 3hrs £13
Approx. 3hrs £13
18 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
(USA) + CHRIS WALLUM (UK)
Presented by Jumpin’ Hot Club Ben Hunter and Joe Seamons present their swirling musical whirlpool of pre-war American vintage music. The pair perform material that emerges from rough-and-tumble collisions of all manner of inspirations from the early 20th Century. Always happy to team up with kindred spirits, they appear in trio format with legendary blues harmonica player Phil Wiggins. It’s going to be an exhilarating experience.
STUDIO Approx. 3hrs £12.50
LIVE MUSIC
THU 23 MAR 8PM
SAT 22 APR 8PM
AN EVENING WITH
CALICO THE BAND THE LOWEST PAIR
BILL KIRCHEN & BAND FEATURING AUSTIN DE LONE (USA)
Presented by Jumpin’ Hot Club Direct from Texas the Telecaster-master Bill Kirchen and the godfather of pub rock Austin de Lone team up. Backed by their all-star British band this soulful and rocking band tour Europe to promote their fine new studio album, Transatlanticana. Their long-overdue release unites the pioneers of two major musical movements, Kirchen co-founded the original Americana band and De Lone was one of the originators of British pub rock. THEATRE Approx. 3hrs £13
THU 11 MAY 8PM
(USA) + TED RUSSELL KAMP (USA) + SKYLARK SONG (UK) (USA)
Presented by Jumpin’ Hot Club CALICO the band, are three Los Angeles songwriters Kirsten Proffit, Manda Mosher, and Aubrey Richmond. As powerful as each are individually, an undeniable magic occurs when all three come together. Expect strong song-writing, rich harmonies, and a pervasive Americana passion, rooted in the vast valleys and canyons of L.A. Support is from solo singersongwriter Ted Russell Kamp, who also plays with Shooter Jennings (son of Waylon) as a day-job. STUDIO Approx. 3hrs £12
Presented by Jumpin’ Hot Club
American duo The Lowest Pair feature the duel banjo picking of Kendl Winter and Palmer T. Lee. Draped in Kendl’s high lonesome harmonies and Palmer’s Midwest croon, their debut album was hailed by American Songwriter. Palmer’s songs are distilled into the warm sweet sounds of his percussive wordplay and the melodic interludes of his own unique style played on a pieced together banjo.
STUDIO Approx. 3hrs £12
www.live.org.uk 19
GET INVOLVED: YOUNG PEOPLE
LIVE’S YOUTH THEATRE Live’s Youth Theatre is free and anyone aged between 11 and 22 can join. It’s a community of 200 young people who meet weekly to find cool ways to express their ideas, views and opinions, to make friends and to boost their self-confidence. It explores the language of theatre, ‘What is a Green Room?’, ‘What does a playwright do (and why is it spelt like that anyway)?’ and uses theatre to explore how life’s experiences affect us, affect our futures and our lives. Groups meet on weekday evenings at Live Theatre, and at satellite groups in the East, West and North of Newcastle, at Benfield School, Excelsior Academy and Kenton School. There are no barriers to involvement, no auditions, no entry requirements and no fees.
REGIONAL YOUNG ACTORS ENSEMBLE HULL CITY OF CULTURE 2017 In 2017 Live Theatre, Derby Playhouse and Hull Truck Theatre Company are forming a Regional Young Actors Ensemble for a production that will be part of Hull 2017 City Culture celebrations. The production will combine artistic excellence with the development of emerging talent. Open auditions for involvement to be held in April 2017. Find out more about Live’s Youth Theatre, or to register online for the new programme that starts in late September 2017 see www.live.org.uk/youth-theatre and for information on the open auditions see www.live.org.uk/opportunities 20 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
GET INVOLVED: YOUNG PEOPLE
GBEN!/WRITE!
For young people (aged 16-25) of African Caribbean Heritage in memory of Osa Omorogbe SATURDAY 21 JANUARY 1PM
GBEN!/WRITE! PLAYWRITING TASTER WORKSHOP An exciting development of Live Theatre’s commitment to writers and young people: a playwriting taster workshop for young people aged 16-25 of African Caribbean heritage. A mixture of discussion and writing exercises, this fun, practical workshop explores how life’s experiences offer rich inspiration for writing. No experience needed.
STUDIO Approx. 3hrs Suitable for young people aged 16-25, from an African Caribbean background who are based in Tyne & Wear. No experience necessary. FREE, booking essential
A bursary worth over £1000 and a place on a future playwriting course in Spring 2017, is on offer to up to eight young people who attend this taster workshop. See below for more details. WEDNESDAY 1 - WEDNESDAY 29 MARCH 6PM
GBEN!/WRITE! PLAYWRITING COURSE Learn the key elements of playwriting from two of the region’s most respected theatre practitioners, including writing dialogue, storyline, theatrical development, and character progression. The course culminates in a celebratory event where extracts of students’ plays will be performed by professional actors in front of an audience at Live Theatre.
STUDIO Approx. 3hrs each Wednesday evening. Suitable for young people aged 16-25, from an African Caribbean background who are based in Tyne & Wear. FREE, applicants should attend the Taster Workshop.
For more information on the Gben!/Write! workshop and bursary see www.live.org.uk/gben Gben!/Write! is in memory of playwright, actor, story-teller and dancer Osa Omorogbe. Supported by Osa’s children, Jane and Owen, mutual friend and artist Peter Adegbie, and Waka Waka Africa North East.
www.live.org.uk 21
GET INVOLVED: TEACHERS
SUPPORT FOR TEACHERS AND SCHOOLS ARTS AWARD
ARTSMARK
Live Theatre’s plays, talks and workshops can support young people to achieve Arts Award. Look for events marked Arts Award in this brochure. Arts Award is a national qualification designed to grow young people as artists and arts leaders.
Live Theatre is an Artsmark venue.
Live Theatre often works in partnership with organisations such as The Prince’s Trust as well as its own Youth Theatre members, to find young people who would like to gain an Arts Award.
An Artsmark award will help schools to deliver a high quality arts and cultural education and provides an excellent way to demonstrate this. Any school can apply and Artsmark schools gain access to exceptional resources as well as networks of the country’s most treasured cultural organisations, helping them develop and strengthen their arts provision.
Arts Award students at Live Theatre have a 100% pass rate. To find out more about opportunities to work together to deliver Arts Award or become an Artsmark school please email education@live.org.uk
22 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
GET INVOLVED: VOLUNTEER
VOLUNTEER AT LIVE TALES Live Tales is always looking for volunteers to help out at its weekday creative writing workshops with school classes of young people aged 7-11. Volunteers support Live Theatre’s experienced drama workers to deliver fun creative writing workshops helping young people to explore their imagination, develop communication skills and grow in confidence.
“What a buzz! Love the games and format. All child-centred and creative. Brings writing to life.” “This is such a joyous thing to do!” Current Volunteers During the workshops volunteers encourage small groups of students as they work on their writing. There is never any emphasis on spelling or grammar. Live Tales is also looking for volunteer illustrators to bring the young people’s ideas to life by creating illustrations to accompany their story. Everyone (as long as they are over 18) and is a good listener is welcome to volunteer. Current volunteers include students, retired people, teachers, journalists and artists. Live Tales provides full training sessions and support for all Live Tales volunteers, who are also subject to disclosure checks. For further information about becoming a Live Tales Volunteer see www.live.org.uk/volunteer www.live.org.uk 23
GET INVOLVED: FRIENDS OF LIVE THEATRE
FRIENDS OF LIVE THEATRE Friends of Live Theatre play a key role in helping us to nurture new writing and deliver world-class plays. Live Theatre relies on income from individuals to sustain and develop our work championing new writing, nurturing new writers and unlocking the potential of children and young people. In return for a donation of as little as £5 per month, you can support our work and have access to: • 2-for-1 tickets • Discount at our bar • Exclusive events And more… Benefits vary subject to availability. Join as a Friend, Good Friend or Best Friend today. For more information about the Friends scheme call (0191) 269 3499 or visit www.live.org.uk/friends.
Our Best Friends are: Anthony Atkinson Noreen Bates Jim Beirne Michael and Pat Brown Dorothy Braithwaite and Paul Callaghan George Caulkin Michael and Susan Chaplin Sue and Simon Clugston Helen Coyne Chris Foy Robson Green Lee Hall John Jordan John Josephs Annette Marlowe Madelaine Newton Elaine Orrick Ian and Christine Shepherdson Margaret and John Shipley Shelagh Stephenson Sting Alan Tailford Graeme and Aly Thompson Paul and Julie Tomlinson Nick and Melanie Tulip Alison Walton Kevin Whately Lucy Winskell And others who choose to remain anonymous.
24 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
OUR SPACES
PHOTO: JILL TATE
LIVE GARDEN Live Garden is Live Theatre’s outdoor garden and performance area which is open every day and free to visit. Located just behind the Theatre it can be accessed from Broad Chare or Newcastle Quayside. As well as being a quiet place for lunch on a sunny day, outdoor performances and special events are held in Live Garden throughout the year. Find out what’s on in Live Garden by checking www.live.org.uk Live Garden is also available for hire or partnership events. For more information email events@live.org.uk or contact (0191) 269 3497.
PHOTO: REED INGRAM WEIR
HOLD YOUR EVENT AT LIVE THEATRE Live Theatre’s five Grade II listed buildings combine to create a series of beautiful and unique indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for any special occasion and the perfect venue for those looking for something a little different. From the main theatre, to historic meeting rooms, or outdoors in Live Garden, we have a range of spaces available to hire for formal or informal events and meetings. With dedicated events staff on hand to help you every step of the way, the option of award-winning food from Terry Laybourne’s 21 Hospitality Group team and in-house Technical and Front of House teams we can help turn your vision into reality.
For more information on hiring Live Theatre or holding an event in Live Garden email events@live.org.uk or contact (0191) 269 3497. Live Garden is a Live Theatre initiative and has been supported byNorth East European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Programme 2007 to 2013, Arts Council England, Newcastle City Council, The Catherine Cookson Charitable Trust, the Gillian Dickinson Trust, The Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, The Sir James Knott Trust, The Monument Trust, Investment and Contract Readiness Fund and the Wolfson Foundation.
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PLAN YOUR VISIT
By choosing one of our nearby partner bars and restaurants your custom will be directly helping to support the work of Live Theatre:
LIVE THEATRE BAR
CAFFÈ VIVO
Enjoy a leisurely drink before or after the performance in Live Theatre’s Bar and Undercroft, where you can order drinks and ice creams for the interval. You can also take drinks from our bar into the theatre.
For a tasty pre-theatre Italian supper, look no further than Caffè Vivo for simple, authentic Italian food cooked with panache and passion. Before the show, choose from the Fixed Price Menu which is served Monday to Friday 12-10pm and Saturday 12-7pm. 2 courses £16.50, 3 courses £19.50.
THE BROAD CHARE The Broad Chare is a proper pub, serving great beer and honest food. Recently awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand for the sixth year running, The Broad Chare is the only pub in the city to feature in the Great Britain and Ireland Michelin Guide 2017. A unique partnership between Live Theatre and 21 Hospitality Group, a proportion of the revenue is invested back into the work of Live Theatre. For more information visit www.thebroadchare.co.uk or to make a reservation call (0191) 211 2144.
For more information visit www.caffevivo.co.uk or to make a reservation call (0191) 232 1331.
HEAD OF STEAM QUAYSIDE Recently lovingly refurbished the Head of Steam offers a great range of craft, local cask and world beers, ciders and wines, along with a focus on great cuisine. A proportion of its revenue is invested back into the work of Live Theatre For more information see www.theheadofsteam.co.uk or call (0191) 261 7385.
26 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
PLAN YOUR VISIT
ASSISTED PERFORMANCES Live Theatre is fully accessible. If you have any special access requirements, or plan to use one or our assisted performances, please inform the box office team when booking so that we can meet your needs. Live Theatre offers a range of assisted performances aimed at improving the theatre experience for all our audience members. These services are marked with the appropriate symbol on the event pages, are offered at no extra cost for service users, and should not affect the performance for other audience members.
ritish Sign Language A BSL B interpreter is positioned on or next to the stage to communicate in a non-verbal language.
Relaxed performances These take a laid-back approach to noise or movement coming from the audience. They are suitable for young people with special educational Captioned The words spoken by needs, or anyone who may benefit the performers are displayed as text from a more relaxed environment. on a screen, on or next to the stage, Audience members can leave the similar to television subtitles. performance and come back in again Audio Described A live commentary and don’t have to be quiet. of the action on stage is described through personal headphones, Internal Hearing Aid Systems between words spoken by the These can be used for shows in both characters. the Theatre and the Studio. Touch Tour To compliment an Audio We welcome Text Relay calls. Described show; this is a ‘hands Dial 18001 (0191) 232 1232 on’ tour of the set describing props, costumes, characters and the visual style of the show especially for visitors with visual impairments. To find out more about assisted performances please visit www.live.org.uk/assistedperformances
This brochure can be made available in a range of formats. Call with your request on (0191) 232 1232.
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PLAN YOUR VISIT
THEATRE SEATING
Cabaret Area
SIDE SEATS
Fixed Seating
SIDE SEATS
There are a range of seating options in the Theatre. These include our cabaret area and fixed seats on the ground floor and balcony. Wherever you choose, audiences at Live Theatre are never far from the action. Cabaret chairs and tables offer an intimate view of the performance with a social atmosphere. Cabaret seating is unreserved and allocated on a first come first served basis when the doors to the theatre open. We recommend you arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of the show.
Ground floor and balcony offer more traditional rows of fixed theatre seating. Side Seats in fixed seating on the ground floor are available for slightly lower prices and may have a limited view.
Accessible Seats When making a booking please let our box office staff know of any access needs that you have so they can allocate the most appropriate seats. Select your own seat when booking online for a performance in the Theatre, see www.live.org.uk
STUDIO SEATING Live Theatre’s Studio is located on the third floor. Seats are unreserved, allocated on a first come first served basis when the doors open. It is usually a mix of cabaret tables and fixed seating. Tickets numbers do not refer to a particular seat and we recommend that you arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of the show. 28 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
PLAN YOUR VISIT
S TU C DE O N N T C S ES & SI OT O H N E S R
AT S SE E D SI
C
AB FI AR XE ET D & SE AT O VE IN G R 60 s
THEATRE TICKET PRICES
GREEN £26 £26 £18 £18
peak demand performances
PURPLE
high demand performances
£22 £22 £15 £15
PINK
£18 £16 £12 £10
BLUE
£14 £12 £10 £6
midweek and mid demand performances and some matinees some previews, early matinees, off-peak or shorter performances
Our Theatre performances have a colour classification on different nights with a range of prices depending on the type of seat that you choose. When booking by phone or in person, our box office staff will discuss your choice of seating and ticket prices with you. We have a wide range of ticket prices, with low ticket prices for students and concessions from just £6 on selected performances. There is also a limited number of lower priced side seats available, which may have a restricted view. Concession tickets for students, under 16s, those on disability and unemployment benefits are £6 on BLUE performances, £10 on PINK performances, £15 on PURPLE performances, and £18 on GREEN performances. One ticket per concession holder and appropriate proof of concession will be required when collecting tickets from the box office.
Over 60s receive £2 off on PINK and BLUE performances on seats in cabaret and fixed seating for theatre productions. Group/teacher/tutor discount are available for those bringing a group to see a show. For every 10 tickets bought Live Theatre’s great group discount gives one additional ticket free.
Music events are reserved seating in the Theatre but unallocated in the Studio, and prices vary. Please check when booking your tickets.
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PLAN YOUR VISIT
Live Tales
Live Garden Live Works
RIVER TYNE
GETTING HERE Public Transport
Parking
Live Theatre is located behind the Law Courts on Newcastle Quayside. It is approximately a 10 minute walk from Monument, Central and Manors Metro stations. The Q3 QuayLink bus service stops opposite the Law Courts and is a 2 minute walk to Live Theatre.
The secure car park in the Trinity Gardens complex is 100 metres from the Theatre, accessed from City Road and Trinity Gardens, it is open from 7am to midnight, and is free after 5pm. There are additional car parks nearby and limited on-street parking on Broad Chare.
BOOKING INFORMATION Book tickets by phone or online
Box office opening hours
Call our box office on (0191) 232 1232 or visit www.live.org.uk where you can select your own seat online. Tickets can be mailed out, at an extra charge of £1, or can be collected from the box office free of charge.
Monday to Friday 12noon to 5.30pm The box office is also open from 2 hours before, and until 30 minutes after the start of evening and weekend performances.
30 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232
Ticket exchanges Ticket Exchanges are available up to 24 hours before a performance, for a fee of £1 per ticket (up to a maximum of £5 per transaction). This can be applied as a credit to your Live Theatre account and is valid for one year.
EVENT CALENDAR
EVENT CALENDAR JANUARY LOCATION PAGE TH P18 Fri 20 The Cactus 8pm Blossoms Sat 21 Gben!/Write! 1pm ST P21 Playwriting Taster Workshop TH P18 Thu 26 Lindsay Lou & 8pm The Flatbellys ST P10 Fri 27 Each Piece 8pm TALK ST P10 Sat 28 Each Piece 8pm TALK ST P18 Sun 29 Ben Hunter, 8pm Joe Seamons & Phil Wiggins FEBRUARY Tue 21 Writing Political 7.30pm Theatre Panel Discussion Wed 22 Elevator Double Bill 7.30m Thu 23 Devised Theatre 2pm Workshop Thu 23 Work-In-Progress 7.30pm Fri 24 Elevator Double Bill 7.30m Sat 25 Director’s 11am Masterclass Sat 25 Blackout 4pm 6pm Mon 30 CPD Session 1pm MARCH Wed 1 good dog 7.30pm Sat 4 A Suitcase. A 7.30pm Toothbrush. A Ball. Sun 5 A Suitcase. A 7.30pm Toothbrush. A Ball. Fri 10 Sugar 7.30pm TALK Sat 11 Sugar 7.30pm Thu 16 CPD Session 4pm Thu 23 Bill Kirchen & Band 8pm
TH P6
TH P7 ST P7 TH P8 TH P7 ST P8 ST P8 LT
P17
TH P11 TH P16 TH P16 TH P12 TH P12
P17 TH P19 LT
APRIL Thu 6 The Red Lion 7.30pm P TH P5 Fri 7 The Red Lion 7.30pm P TH P5 Sat 8 The Red Lion 2pm P 7.30pm P TH P5 241 TALK Tue 11 The Red Lion 7.30pm O TH P5 Wed 12 The Red Lion 7.30pm TH P5 TH P5 Thu 13 The Red Lion 2pm 7.30pm Fri 14 EASTER CLOSED Sat 15 EASTER CLOSED Sun 16 EASTER CLOSED Mon 17 EASTER CLOSED
LOCATION PAGE Tues 18 The Red Lion 7.30pm TH P5 Wed 19 The Red Lion 7.30pm TH P5 TH P5 Thu 20 The Red Lion 2pm 7.30pm Fri 21 The Red Lion 7.30pm TH P5 TH P5 Sat 22 The Red Lion 2pm 7.30pm ST P19 CALICO the Band 8pm Tue 25 The Red Lion 7.30pm TH P5 Wed 26 The Red Lion 7.30pm TH P5 Thu 27 The Red Lion 2pm 7.30pm TH P5 Fri 28 The Red Lion 7.30pm TH P5 TH P5 Sat 29 The Red Lion 2pm 7.30pm MAY Mon 1 BANK HOLIDAY CLOSED Tue 2 The Red Lion 7.30pm Wed 3 The Red Lion 7.30pm Thu 4 The Red Lion 2pm 7.30pm Fri 5 The Red Lion 7.30pm Sat 6 The Red Lion 1pm 2pm 7.30pm Wed 10 Jack Rooke: 7.30pm Good Grief Thu 11 Jack Rooke: 7.30pm Good Grief TALK The Lowest Pair 8pm Sat 13 Become a 10am Playwright Sun 14 Become a 10am Playwright Fri 19 Mixtape: The 90s 8pm Tue 23 Letters to Myself Wed 24 Letters to Myself Sun 28 10 Minutes To… JUNE Wed 14 CPD Session Thu 22 CPD Session
KEY TO SYMBOLS P Preview Performance O Opening Night 241 Friends 241 TALK Post Show Talk TH Theatre ST Studio LT Live Tales
8pm 8pm 8pm
9am 4pm
TH P5 TH P5 TH P5 TH P5 TH P5 TH P13 TH P13 ST P19 TBC P9 TBC P9 TH P14 ST P15 ST P15 TH P9
LT LT
P17 P17
BSL Captioned Audio Described Free Touch Tour Relaxed Performance Please see page 27 for information on our assisted performances.
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“Live Theatre is one of British Theatre’s best kept secrets.” Lee Hall, playwright
Live Theatre is one of the great new writing theatres. World-class plays produced and presented by Live Theatre first in its intimate Quayside theatre, often transfer to theatres across the UK and internationally. See exciting new theatre in development from some of the region’s most exciting up and coming talent, insightful drama produced by and with young people, as well as the best of national touring plays, chosen by Live Theatre for their quality and relevance. Get involved by taking a playwriting course, volunteering at Live Tales creative writing centre or support the theatre’s work by becoming a Friend of Live Theatre. When visiting Live Theatre why not eat at one of our partner bars or restaurants such as The Broad Chare, Caffè Vivo and Head of Steam Quayside, income from which helps to support the work of Live Theatre.
Live Theatre, Broad Chare, Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3DQ Admin (0191) 261 2694 Type Relay 18001 (0191) 232 1232 Fax (0191) 232 2224
Box office (0191) 232 1232 tickets@live.org.uk www.live.org.uk For up-to-the-minute information follow Live Theatre on
Live Theatre is operated by North East Theatre Trust Limited, a registered charity number 513771, company registration number 1697756.