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REVIEW: Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical, Grand Opera House, York, until Saturday ****

Top of the plots: Nic Myers’ Kathryn Merteuil in Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical. Picture: Pamela Raith Photography

AFTER New York and London runs, Jordan Ross, Lindsey Rosin and Roger Kumble’s jukebox musical spin on Kumble’s too-cool-for-school 1999 movie Cruel Intentions arrives in York in only the second week of its debut UK tour.

Tickets are selling well, albeit with surprising availability for Saturday night, with audience members spread across age groups, from the film’s devotees to lovers of Nineties pop and outré musicals.

Bill Kenwright Ltd is mounting the tour, a rubber stamp that guarantees a high-quality production with hi-tech lighting by Nick Richings,  pin-sharp sound design by Chris Whybrow and, above all, a luxuriant set and especially costume design by Polly Sullivan to evoke the wealth of New York’s Upper East Side in the 1990s.

Jonathan O’Boyle’s cast for the 2025 tour of Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical, heading to York, Leeds and Hull. Picture: Pamela Raith Photography

Cruel Intentions was the romance/thriller one with the budding Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon and Selma Blair, re-setting Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’s French novel Les Liaisons Dangereuses in the summer recess before the new term at the exclusive Manchester High School in Manhattan, 1999.

‘Tis the mischief-making season where high society does what it always does in thumb-twiddling lulls: match-making, love-making, plotting and counter-plotting, amid the loss of innocence and the need for inner sense.

Oh, and just like in Sex Education, what all the young seem to have on their mind is sex rather more than education. And like in Sex Education too, a soundtrack to die for. We’ll get to that.

The plotting thickens: Will Callan’s Sebastian Valmont and Nik Myers’ Kathryn Merteuil lay their wager in Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical. Picture: Pamela Raith Photography

The show opens with a voiceover from Nic Myers’ Kathryn Merteuil, waspish and haughtily dismissive, potty-mouthed too, as New York calls on old York to turn off its mobile devices.

Sharp of dress, dark of glass and countenance, Myers’ Kathryn and her step brother Sebastian Valmont (Will Callan) are the “trust fund casualties of absentee parents”, toying with their prey as they place their “cruel” wager. She wins his 1950s’ roadster if he fails to seduce Annette Hargrove (Abbie Budden), virtuous daughter of the incoming new headmaster; he wins next-level sex with Kathryn if he does.

In a new opening song, Livin’ La Vida Loca, director Jonathan O’Boyle introduces all the principals, while Gary Lloyd establishes his choreography will be every bit as snappy, snazzy, fiery, fun and sexy as it was in Heathers.

Abbie Budden’s Annette Hargrove , the new headmaster’s virtuous daughter. Picture: Pamela Raith Photography

In her interview with CharlesHutchPress, Abbie Budden, the only returnee from the London cast, said Cruel Intentions differed from other jukebox musicals in not taking itself too seriously. There was still the darkness of Kumble’s film, she added, but now a playful energy too.

In that way, it might remind you of how The Rocky Horror Show, down the years, has turned camper than the original Rocky Horror Picture Show. Especially here in the entanglements of Luke Conner Hall’s bleach-blond, mullet haired Blaine Tuttle and Joe Simmons’ sports jock Greg McConnell, expressing what they want, what they really, really want in The Spice Girls’ Wannabe.

You want it darker, as Leonard Cohen enquired in his last masterpiece? Well, Kumble and his co-conspirators don’t kill the flame but the darkness comes tongue in cheek, with knowing winks in the dialogue.

Head over heels: Luke Conner Hall’s Blaine Tuttle and Joe Simmons’ Greg McConnell performing Wannabe in Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical. Picture: Pamela Raith Photography

The callous cruelty brought on by privilege stripping perpetrators of moral responsibility should not be this much fun, but as we know, the devil’s disciples always have the best lines. Witness Callan’s Sebastian, irresistible devourer of “insipid Manhattan dilettantes”.

They don’t always have the best tunes: these are splendidly spread out, from Budden’s Just A Girl and Foolish Games to Gabriella Williams’s No Scrubs in the guise of bigoted snob Mrs Bunny Caldwell (the Lady Bracknell of Upper East Side).

Lucy Carter is a scream as daughter Cecile Caldwell, blossoming in her sexual awakening and funnier scene by scene, whether with scandalous Sebastian, Kathryn or cello tutor Ronald Clifford (Kevin Yates), while Myers is spectacularly, seductively splenetic as the viperous Kathryn, her singing of Bitch  being the show’s high point.

Kiss Me: Nic Myers’ Kathryn Merteuil, left, initiates Lucy Carter’s Cecile Caldwell in the art of kissing in Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical. Picture: Pamela Raith Photography

You will love Lloyd’s choreography in raincoats for the railway station scene; cheer the inner strength of Budden’s Annette, and enjoy how the show uses Nineties’ pop gems Lovefool, Kiss Me and Breakfast At Tiffany’s, alongside the rock stealth of Counting Crows’ Colorblind and R.E.M.’s Losing My Religion.

What better way to finish than with Bitter Sweet Symphony, as impactful as it was in the movie, in summing up the overriding theme, whether “Tryna make ends meet, you’re a slave to money then you die” or “Tryna find somebody then you die”.

Will Joy’s musical direction and Zach Spound’s orchestrations peak in this ensemble finale, the band fading away in climax of a cappella singing and orchestrated clapping. Earlier, familiar Nineties nuggets break out in new directions, new interpretations, whether in solos, duets, triplets of duets in a song, even bravura mash-ups as top of the plots meets top of the pops.

Bill Kenwright Ltd presents Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical, Grand Opera House, York, today, 2.30pm and 7.30pm; tomorrow, 7.30pm; Friday, 5pm and 8.30pm; Saturday, 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Age guidance: 15 plus. Box office: atgtickets.com/york. Also playing: Leeds Grand Theatre, May 6 to 10, 0113 243 0808 or leedsheritagetheatres.com; Hull New Theatre, May 13 to 17, 01482 300306 or hulltheatres.co.uk.

Dismissive: Mrs Bunny Caldwell (Gabriella Williams) serves notice on cello tutor Ronald Clifford (Kevin Yates) in Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical. Picture: Pamela Raith Photography

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What’s On in Ryedale, York & beyond. Hutch’s List No. 7, from Gazette & Herald

Banff Mountain Film Festival, on tour from the Canadian Rocky Mountains to York Barbican tonight. Picture: Jordan Manoukian

FROM dangerous liaisons to messy science experiments, Charles Hutchinson looks forward to an action-packed February half-term.

Nail-biting film adventure of the week: Banff Mountain Film Festival Tour, York Barbican, tonight, 7.30pm

HERE comes a new collection of short films packed with extreme expeditions, intrepid characters and stunning cinematography. “Join the world’s top outdoor filmmakers and adventurers as they climb, ski, paddle, run and ride through the wildest corners of the planet,” says tour director Neil Teasdale. “We guarantee you’ll leave inspired to have an adventure of your own.”

Tonight’s highlights include A Team Sport, featuring ultra-runner Courtney Dauwalter; Of A Lifetime’s account of three extreme skiers and snowboarders sailing across the notorious Drake Passage to ride the steep, icy lines of Antarctica and Soul Flyers – The Longest Line, where Fred Fugen, Vincent Cotte and Aurélien Chatard achieve the longest terrain-flying wingsuit line in history. Box office: yorkbarbican.co.uk.

Abbie Budden’s Annette Hargrove in Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical at Grand Opera House, York. Picture: Pamela Raith

Dangerous liaison of the week: Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical, Grand Opera House, York, today, 2.30pm and 7.30pm; tomorrow, 7.30pm; Friday, 5pm and 8.30pm; Saturday, 2.30pm and 7.30pm

CREATED by Jordan Ross, Lindsey Rosin and Roger Kumble from Kumble’s 1999 film spin on Les Liaisons Dangereuses, this American musical is powered by the 1990s’ pop gold dust of Britney Spears, Boyz II Men, Christina Aguilera, TLC, R.E.M., Ace Of Base, Natalie Imbruglia and The Verve.

Step siblings Sebastian Valmont (Will Callan) and Kathryn Merteuil (Nic Myers) engage in a cruel bet, where Kathryn goads Sebastian into attempting to seduce Annette Hargrove (Abbie Budden), the headmaster’s virtuous daughter. Weaving a web of secrets and temptation, their crusade wreaks havoc on the students at their exclusive Manhattan high school. Soon the dastardly plotters become entangled in their own web of deception and unexpected romance with explosive results. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.

Stuart Green’s inspector, Truscott, and Miles John’s thief, Dennis, in York Settlement Community Players’ Loot at York Theatre Royal Studio

Scandalous play of the week: York Settlement Community Players in Loot, York Theatre Royal Studio, until February  27, 7.45pm except February 23; 2pm matinee, February 22

KATIE Leckey directs the Settlement Players in agent provocateur Joe Orton’s scabrous 1965 farce, the one with two thieves, dodgy police officers, adult themes, offensive language, sexism and xenophobia, references to sexual assault, including rape and necrophilia, a live actor playing a dead body in a coffin and digs at the Roman Catholic Church.

Don’t let that put you off! Yes, it still carries a content warning and age recommendation of 16 upwards, but it remains outrageously funny. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

Connie Howcroft in rehearsal for her role as Jo March in Wharfemede Productions’ Little Women – The Broadway Musical

Marching on together: Wharfemede Productions: Little Women – The Broadway Musical, Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, until Saturday, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm Saturday matinee

HELEN Spencer directs York company Wharfemede Productions in their first solo show, playing Marmee too in Allan Knee, Jason Howland and Mindi Dickstein’s musical account of Louisa May Alcott’s story of the March sister – traditional Meg, wild, aspiring writer Jo, timid Beth and romantic Amy – growing up in Concord, Massachusetts, while their chaplain father is away serving in the American Civil War. Box office: tickets.41monkgate.co.uk.

Top Secret: Demonstrating the magic of science at Pocklington Arts Centre on Friday

Experimental show of the week: Top Secret: The Magic Of Science, Pocklington Arts Centre, Friday, 2pm

IS it magic… or is it science? Fusing the mystery of magic with wondrous and miraculous feats of science, Top Secret go on a high voltage adventure in a fast-moving, colourful, interactive show filled with mystery, suspense and loads of mess in experiments to capture the imagination. Box office: 01759 301547 or pocklingtonartscentre.co.uk.

Julia Titus celebrating the blues of Bessie Smith in Ma Bessie’s Prohibition Party at Milton Rooms, Malton

Blues night of the week: Rural Arts On Tour presents Julia Titus in Ma Bessie’s Prohibition Party, Milton Rooms, Malton, Friday, 7.30pm

BUILDING on her passion for the Empress of the Blues, Julia Titus started to perform as Ma Bessie in 2015 to share the music of Bessie Smith and her contemporaries with a new generation. Julia’s rich, warm vocals combine with dynamic guitar and saxophone musicians who look as well as sound the part.

Ma Bessie features classic blues and jazz tunes from the inter-war years, along with original songs and handpicked covers from the past 50 years of popular music: Careless Love, Nobody Knows When You’re Down And Out, Gimme A Pig Foot et al. Box office: 01653 696240 or themiltonrooms.com.  

Jenny Lockyer as Amy Johnson in Last Flight Out, on tour at Helmsley Arts Centre, where she will hold an afternoon workshop too

Ryedale play of the week: Jenny Lockyer in Amy Johnson: Last Flight Out, Helmsley Arts Centre, Saturday, 7.30pm

BORN in the year the Wright Brothers made their first flight and into an age where the romantic heights of flying captured her heart, Amy Johnson lived her life for adventure and the future of aviation. In January 1941, aged 37, she was killed while serving her country on a routine flight for the Air Transport Auxiliary.

Written and performed by Jenny Lockyer, Last Flight Out charts how the “lone girl flier” achieved so much while faced with challenges of all kinds. We meet Amy in a world of memories, desires, wishes and ambitions, where we see how the pieces fit together and learn of the tools she used to bring her dreams to reality. Box office: 01439 771700 or helmsleyarts.co.uk.

James Oliver, top, Mark Kemlo, bottom left, and Norman Watt-Roy: Playing Shire Hall, Howden, on Saturday

The other blues night of the week: Howden Live presents James Oliver with Norman Watt-Roy, Shire Hall, Howden, Saturday, doors 7.30pm for 8pm

IRREPRESSIBLE Welsh blues guitar talent and vocalist James Oliver will be joined in Howden by bass stalwart Norman Watt-Roy, from Ian Dury & The Blockheads, Wilko Johnson’s band and Wreckless Eric’s Captains Of Industry, plus drummer Mark Kemlo.

“James is a passionate roots rocker loaded with guitar firepower,” says guitar legend Bill Kirchen. “I am not easily impressed by guitarists, but this guy is definitely a comer,” adds Captain Beefheart drummer John Drumbo. Box office: 01430 432510 (Shire Hall), 01430 431660 (Dove House shop) or howden-live.com. 

In Focus: 1812 Theatre Company in Art, Helmsley Arts Centre, February 26 to March 1, 7.30pm

1812 Theatre Company’s poster for Art at Helmsley Arts Centre

THE 1812 Theatre Company, resident troupe at Helmsley Arts Centre, will stage Yasmina Reza’s dazzling comedy Art in Joanne Lister’s directorial debut.

Art made its debut in Paris in 1994, followed by Christopher Hampton’s translation being premiered at London’s Wyndham’s Theatre in 1996. Among its many international awards were the Molière Awards for best play, production and author in 1994 and the Evening
Standard Award for Best Comedy in 1996.

Reza’s play asks: Can a friendship between three close friends – Marc, Serge and Yvan – survive when one of them does something completely unexpected? Classical art enthusiast Marc considers Serge to be his protégé, buy when Serge suddenly spends a fortune on a piece of modern art, sparks fly.

Yvan tries to keep the peace but he has his own problems. According to Marc, poor Yvan is “about to marry a gorgon”!

In the British debut, Marc, Serge and Yvan were played by Albert Finney, Tom Courtenay and Ken Stott respectively, so the 1812 cast will have their work cut out to fill their shoes!

John Lister and Mike Martin are cast as Marc and Yvan. They last took to the stage together in 2011 in Martin Vander Weyer’s adaptation of Around the World In 80 Days in the roles of Phileas Fogg and Passepartout respectively.

Ivan Limon will complete the company as Serge, bringing a wealth of experience with him. He never stops performing, either for 1812 Theatre Company or for three drama groups in Teesside.

Joanne Lister is making her full directing debut after helping her husband John to direct 1812’s production of John Godber’s Scary Bikers last year.

Box office: 01439 771700 or helmsleyarts.co.uk.

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Abbie Budden dives into the dangerous liaisons of Cruel Intentions in her debut tour at Grand Opera House from tonight

Abbie Budden as Annette Hargrove in Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical. Picture: Pamela Raith

ABBIE Budden is surrounded by an entirely new cast as she reprises her role of Annette Hargrove in the 2025 tour of Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical, playing the Grand Opera House, York, from tonight to Saturday.

Last year, Abbie made her professional bow aged 20  in the London premiere of Jordan Ross, Lindsey Rosin and Roger Kumble’s New York musical, based on Kumble’s too-cool-for-school  1999 film.

“I’m the only returning cast member from that show at The Other Palace Theatre in Victoria, and it’s been really lovely to revisit it, bringing new elements to it,” says Abbie, who is working again with director Jonathan O’Boyle and choreographer Gary Lloyd.

“The London run flew by and I just didn’t feel I’d finished with it after those five months, so it’s been liberating to come back for three weeks of rehearsals before we opened at Windsor Theatre Royal last Thursday. “

Why was it ‘unfinished business’, Abbie? “It’s always on reflection that you think ‘there is so much more I could have done’, and I’m now finding so many new moments for Annette, bouncing off new members of the cast. 

“But I had an amazing time in London, and as last year was my professional debut, it felt so special to me, and I now come back to the show having had more experiences since then. I did Title Of Show, at Phoenix Arts Theatre and Southwark Playhouse, which was a very different show: a musical about two people writing a musical.

“It was a very meta piece of theatre with a cast of four, the writers and two friends, based on a real story. That was a lot of fun to do, as was playing Jill in my first pantomime  in Jack And The Beanstalk at Ipswich Regent Theatre, and now Cruel Intentions feels like a new challenge again.”

Inspired by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’s French novel Les Liaisons Dangereuses, Cruel Intentions is rooted in a cruel bet where Kathryn Merteuil (Nic Myers) goads step-brother Sebastian Valmont (Will Callan) into attempting to seduce Annette Hargrove, the headmaster’s virtuous daughter at their exclusive Manhattan high school. 

Weaving a web of secrets and temptation, their crusade wreaks havoc but soon the co-conspirators become entangled in their own web of deception and unexpected romance with explosive results. 

Abbie Budden in her debut professional role as Annette Hargrove in last year’s London production of Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical. Picture: Pamela Raith

What a debut role and debut show for Abbie. “I didn’t train at drama college,” she reveals. “I jumped straight into the industry last year at the age of 20. Now I’m 21, and I feel they have really nurtured me. It was exciting but terrifying last year, but now I can be playful with the role with full confidence.

“Last year I learnt so much about myself, just how capable I am – and eight shows a week is tough for anyone.”

After landing such a role on the London stage when so young, Abbie found imposter syndrome kicking in. “But I think that is something that never goes away in this industry: that constant need to prove yourself,” she says. “It’s a feeling that you really have to try to switch off.  Be confident that you’re meant to be here. You just have to remind yourself that you were chosen for a reason.”

Although Abbie has not studied for a drama degree, “as soon as I could, I was wearing dancing shows, from the age of three, growing up in Horsham in West Sussex” she says. “I loved the drama department at my school, Tanbridge House School, and did sessions twice a week and lots of productions at Showdown Theatre Arts, where I found my passion for the arts.

“I did an exchange programme to Baltimore, going to New York too, and that felt like a step into performing that couldn’t have come at a better time before jumping into professional theatre last year.”

Abbie confesses that she had not seen the film until the audition. “The moment I watched it, I loved it. I remember gasping and squealing at how outrageous it was – and chaotic too! The plot really keeps you guessing and Roger Kumble’s script is so cutting. I instantly connected with Annette, knowing it was so right for me as a role,” she says

“Though it’s strongly a 1990s’ film – and placing it in Upper East Side, New York, makes it even more iconic – its themes are still almost painfully relevant.

“Our version plays it slightly different to the film, still taking inspiration from those iconic characters, but I’ve really found my own Annette, where she matches Sebastian at his game. There’s no time where she’s weak or is a victim of Sebastian.

“The Gwen Stefani song that Annette sings, Just A Girl, is telling the world that she yearns to be more than innocent, to be rebellious. She definitely does have a lot of control throughout, and doesn’t lose that; it’s her self-control that she struggles with, showing vulnerability with that.”

The show poster for Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical, playing Grand Opera House, York, Leeds Grand Theatre and Hull New Theatre

As the show title indicates, Cruel Intentions is  packed with 1990s’ pop gold dust, from Stefani, Britney Spears, Boyz II Men and Christina Aguilera to TLC, R.E.M., Ace Of Base, Natalie Imbruglia and The Verve.

“I almost wish all the songs were in the film because they suit the story so well, and what separates this show from other jukebox musicals is that it doesn’t take itself too seriously,” says Abbie.

What is her favourite number? “Torn. The Natalie Imbruglia song. It’s an absolute banger. If I ever went out to a karaoke night, that would be my number one choice – and it’s a real turning point in the show, where she doesn’t know where she will go from there,” she says.

Abbie also sings Lovefool, the one from the swimming pool scene; Counting Crows’ Colorblind – “a gorgeous moment in the film that’s so honest and sincere on stage that you  really feel the audience go quiet” – and Foolish Games.

“That’s my big ‘belty’ solo in the show, where I do songs that give me lots of contrast, from ‘thrashy’ to beautiful, so Annette really gets to go on an emotional rollercoaster.”

What is the ultimate moral of Cruel Intentions, Abbie? “It’s weird because the characters are pretty devious and do some devious things, but because they’re teenagers and playing games, audiences fall in love with them,” she says.

“But the moral behind it is that there’s a dark side behind privilege, where they’re able to brush everything off with their wealth, which doesn’t just apply to the 1990s. A lot of people will connect with that thing of making questionable decisions as a teenager, but there’s a playful energy to the show as well darkness.”

On the road until the end of June, Abbie is visiting York for the first time this week. “I’ve never been there, so it’ll be lovely to see places on this tour that I’ve never been before,” she says. The further Yorkshire delights of Leeds and Hull await in May.  

Bill Kenwright Ltd presents Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical, Grand Opera House, York, tonight, 7.30pm; tomorrow, 2.30pm and 7.30pm; Thursday, 7.30pm; Friday, 5pm and 8.30pm; Saturday, 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Age guidance: 15 plus. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.

Also playing: Leeds Grand Theatre, May 6 to 10, 0113 243 0808 or leedsheritagetheatres.com; Hull New Theatre, May 13 to 17, 01482 300306 or hulltheatres.co.uk.

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Review: York Light Opera Company, Legally Blonde The Musical, York Theatre Royal, until Saturday ****

Emma Swainston’s Elle Woods with her Chihuahua Bruiser (Lily-Rose) in York Light Opera Company’s Legally Blonde The Musical. Picture: Matthew Kitchen Photography

MARTIN Knight is directing the 2011 Olivier Awards Best New Musical winner for the third time.

In other words, he knows this sugar-coated, bubblegum-pink American show well and duly delivers on his promise to “celebrate Legally Blonde’s joy and energy while highlighting its important message of self-discovery and female empowerment”.

Laurence O’Keefe, Nell Benjamin and Heather Hach’s musical spin on the 2001 Reese Witherspoon film charts the path of jilted Malibu fashion merchandising student Elle Woods (Emma Swainston) as she follows ex-lover Warner (Kit Stroud) to Harvard law school with her cute Chihuahua Bruiser (Lily-Rose).

Staying true to herself, her Californian sunshine rubs up against New York cynicism and Ivy League snobbery as she defeats all preconceptions to cut the legal mustard.

Emma Swainston, a regular on the York am-dram stage, was picked by Knight for her “star quality”, and she is utterly swell in her “dream role” as Elle:  perky in pink, fun and funny, full of vulnerability yet vitality, singing splendidly, whether solo, in duets or with the ensemble, and capturing how Elle’s burgeoning legal nous is founded in instinct over conventional intellect.

Not a case of being a law unto herself so much as Elle thinking outside the box, allied to an indefatigable spirit that overcomes obstacles and stereotypical “blonde” pigeonholing with a steely resolve to bring about female empowerment. Even sourpuss love rival Vivienne Kensington (Emily Rockliff) comes round to her side eventually.

Swainston’s Elle bonds especially well with Emily Hardy’s Boston trailer-trash hairdresser Paulette Bonafonte, Hardy being in outstanding voice in her big number, Ireland.  

The musical’s primary innovation, a Greek chorus to represent Elle’s inner thoughts in the style of American sports’ cheerleaders, works a treat, boosted further by Knight’s hot choreography with its snazzy and snappy mix of fabulous glamour, high energy and camp swagger.

Pippa  Elmes’s exercise-video guru Brooke Wyndham, standing trial for murder, gives Act Two a cracking start in the skipping song,  Whipped Into Shape, in a performance packed with hard-ball panache.

Stroud has something of a thankless task as rotten egg Warner but he is as good as ever, while Zander Fick continues his run of impressive performances as Elle’s thoroughly principled, quietly driven, corduroy-clad fellow Harvard interloper Emmett Forrest.

Neil Wood is in stage-commanding form as Professor Callahan, the cynical, predatory Harvard lawyer, his rendition of Blood In The Water full of dark power.

Amid the serious undercurrents of Legally Blonde is a double blast of delightfully daft, tongue-in-cheek but sassy comedy rooted in contrasting men’s tropes in the far superior Act Two’s burst of fresh characters: the UPS delivery stud muffin Kyle (Jonny Holbek in strutting scene-stealing mode), contrasted with the flamboyant camping of Stephen Wright’s Nikos and Martin Lay’s Carlos in the courtroom number Gay Or European?

That comedic high point is preceded by another much-loved routine, the irresistible Bend And Snap, played with just the right combination of earnest expression yet a playful relish.

Throughout, Paul Laidlaw leads his orchestra meticulously, another pleasure in a fast-moving, fabulous show that has a reputation for being a girls’ night out, but seriously, men, you may be outnumbered, but how can you resist the power of pink?  

 York Light Opera Company presents Legally Blonde The Musical, York Theatre Royal, until Saturday, 7.30pm nightly  plus 2.30pm matinees on February 20 and 22. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

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Festival of the week: 40th anniversary Jorvik Viking Festival, York, Feb 17 to 23

Stag burning at Jorvik Viking Festival. More fun and games this week. Picture: Charlotte Graham

A NEW Viking longship, a sword that never misses its target and recreations of the world’s largest fossilised poo take centre stage at Europe’s largest Viking Festival over half-term.

Five days of Norse fun, living history, hands-on combat and lectures culminate in a parade through the historic streets and two dramatic evening son-et-lumière shows. 

“This is our 40th anniversary year of Jorvik Viking Festival, and we’re determined that those who follow in the footsteps of our Norse ancestors will not be disappointed when they get here,” says programmer Gareth Henry, of York Archaeology, the charity that organises and funds the festival. 

“As usual, we are celebrating the end of winter in true Nordic style – so whether you want to learn to fight like a Berserker, make your own authentic pair of Viking socks, or just stand back and watch an army of warriors take to the streets, we’ve got something for you.”

A free living history encampment will form the heart of the festival, taking over Parliament Street with an array of tents featuring craftsmen and traders and the opportunity to handle replica armour and weapons. 

“In the medieval period, the Vikings were known as fierce warriors; in our living history encampment, they are brilliant explainers and interpreters who love to talk about their specialist areas of expertise,” says Gareth. 

“We encourage all of our visitors not to simply walk through and observe, but to stop and talk to the re-enactors. It is easy to spend an hour or more just chatting about what life would have been like in 10th century York.”

Festival highlights include the March to Coppergate on February 22, when more than 200 Vikings muster in Dean’s Park, next to York Minster, before making their way through the city streets to Coppergate in an event free to watch from many vantage points along the route. 

The parading Vikings then join the Viking Games at the Eye of York, next to Clifford’s Tower, when tempers are likely to fray, leading to an epic battle between rival factions!

On February 21 and 22, the Eye of York hosts the Evening Spectacular, a dramatic retelling of a Norse legend featuring a sword that can never miss its target – the ultimate warrior’s weapon. Actors and re-enactors perform this piece of open-air theatre with a thrilling soundtrack, culminating in a fiery finale.

DIG, the sister attraction to the Jorvik Viking Centre, will play host to Poo Week, inspired by one of Jorvik’s most infamous exhibits, the Lloyds Bank Coprolite, the world’s largest fossilised Viking poo. Children can re-create poo, discovering how the composition of human excrement reveals so much about the person who passed it!  Undigested seeds, bits of bone and revolting worms all feature in the re-creations.

The festival will be the first opportunity to play the newest addition to the Top Trumps portfolio of card games.  Jorvik Viking Centre’s Top Trumps will be highlighted in a fun, free city-wide trail with packs of the new game available to purchase throughout the event. Budding teen artists can meet the card designer, Katie Smith, at an illustration workshop.

Jorvik Viking Festival week is the last chance to experience A Winter Adventure at Jorvik Viking Centre.  A ride through Viking-age York is the centrepiece of this Norse winter wonderland, where the centre’s interactive Vikings tell stories of how their ancestors would have fared against a harsh winter. Be aware, tickets are likely to sell out in advance.

For more information on the 2025 festival and to book tickets, go to: jorvikvikingfestival.co.uk.  Early booking is recommended as a number of events have sold out already.

The 2025 Jorvik Viking Festival programme

Monday, February 17
Adult Crafting, Barley Hall Cafe, 10am to 1pm
ENJOY a taste of Viking life with this hands-on leather-working workshop. Using traditional Viking tools, you will craft your very own leather bracers and perhaps discover a new hobby along the way. Suited for adults, these beginner-friendly sessions offer a glimpse into Viking life. With limited spots available, advance booking is recommended. Tickets: £40 per person Age restrictions: 16+ only. Workshop is aimed at beginners.

   
Encampment, Parliament Street, 10.30am to 4.30pm
THE Vikings have taken over York city centre. Snap some selfies as you watch them in action, from woodworking to making stunning jewellery. Try your hand at Viking games through lively demonstrations, and even have your face painted to look like a true Norse warrior. Visit Parliament Street or St Sampson’s Square to experience the excitement up close and catch a glimpse of Viking life right in the heart of the city. Tickets: Free of charge. Age restrictions: None.    

Kids Crafting, Barley Hall, 10am to 4pm
LET your little Vikings unleash their creativity with these crafting activities! They can make Buzz Bones — just like Viking children did — to create a fun buzzing sound (some things never change). From crafting their own shields and weaving braids to painting pottery, there is plenty to keep them busy. They can even create their own Viking beard! Why not enter their masterpiece in our Best Beard Competition for a chance to win? Tickets: Free with Barley Hall admission. Age restrictions: No, but most suited to children aged four to 12.    

Berserker Boot Camp, Midgard Marquee, Parliament Street, 10.30am to 4.30pm
PREPARE your little Vikings ready for battle at the Berserker Bootcamp! Led by Jorvik’s seasoned warriors, children will learn the art of combat with wooden swords, by axe-throwing, and will finish by training in the fearsome shield wall. Don’t worry, Norse health and safety keeps it all safe and fun. This activity is a great way to let young warriors experience the thrill of Viking battle training. This is a drop-in activity, so no need to pre-book for this ideal preparation for the Kids Barbaric Battle event on Saturday. Tickets: £10 per person. Age restrictions: Suitable for ages five to 12 only.    

Tryggvi Treehammer’s Top Trumps Trail Across the city centre, 10.30am to 4.30pm
TRYGGVI Treehammer has set up a Viking Trail, across the city of York. Follow in his footsteps by visiting the Jorvik Viking Centre, Barley Hall, DIG, the Midgard Marquee and festival information point on St Sampson’s Square. Collect special stamps along the wayto earn an exclusive Top Trumps card that’s a perfect addition to the new Jorvk Top Trumps set, making its debut at the festival. And the best part? Gathering stamps and completing the trail is completely free! Tickets: Free. Age restrictions: None.    

Poo Week DIG Lunch Room, 11am to 4pm
IT’S smelly, it’s squelchy, and it’s a highlight of the festival calendar! Believe it or not, poo can reveal plenty about our past! Bring the children to DIG to discover why archaeologists are fascinated by this unexpected treasure. Children will have the chance to create their own replica fossilized poo, inspired by the famous Lloyds Bank Turd at Jorvik Viking Centre. Tickets: Free with a DIG tour ticket. Age restrictions: No, but most suited to children aged four.

Adult Crafting Barley Hall Cafe, 2pm to 5pm
SEE details above. Tickets: £40 per person. Age restrictions: 16+ only. Workshop is aimed at beginners.

Jorvik, Immersive Theatre, Old York Theatre, Barley Hall Great Hall, 6pm to 7pm and 7:30pm to 8:30pm
“Eoforwic has fallen. Today is the day that will impact this city for the rest of time. We may not be here for long, but our legacy will stand.” Jorvik is an immersive play set directly in the aftermath of the fall of Eoforwic to the Great Viking Army and its rebirth as Jorvik.
Old York Theatre lean heavily on the Viking mythos, rejoicing in the fantastical, delivered with the spirit of larger-than-life storytelling as Ubbe, soaked in the blood of battle, finds himself at a great banquet in his honour. However, in this mysterious throne room,not all is as it seems.
Jorvik is a play about loss, glory, family and celebrating life while we are still around to enjoy it. Expect big characters, song, fights and plenty of table banging. Tickets: £20 per person. Age restrictions: 16+

Tuesday, February 18
Adult Crafting Barley Hall Cafe 10am to 1pm
Step into the world of Viking craftsmanship with these hands-on Nalebinding sessions. Make your own Viking hats and socks with this historical technique, one that uses the Norse method of knitting with one needle. Suitable for adults, these beginner-friendly sessions offer a glimpse into Viking life. With limited spots available, booking in advance is advised to secure your place. Tickets: £40 per person. Age restrictions: 16+ only. Workshop is aimed at beginners.

Poo Week DIG Lunch Room 11am to 4pm
SEE details on February 17.

Encampment Parliament Street 10.30am to 4.30pm.- 16:30pm
SEE details on February 17.

Kids Crafting Barley Hall, 10am to 4pm
SEE details on February 17.

Berserker Boot Camp Midgard Marquee, Parliament Street, 10.30am to 4.30pm
SEE details on February 17.

Tryggvi Treehammer’s Top Trumps Trail Across the city centre 10:30am -16:30pm
SEE details on February 17.

Adult Crafting Barley Hall Cafe, 2pm to 5pm
SEE details above.

Rum Tasting with Villains Rum at Barley Hall Barley Hall Great Hall, 7.30pm to 8.30pm/9pm
JOIN Villains Rum of York for an unforgettable evening in the historic setting of Barley Hall, for the launch of the new seasonal Queen Gunnhildr Honey Rum. This exclusive tasting event features five signature villain-inspired rums, alongside an introduction to the legend of Queen Gunnhildr with expert Alex Ibbott on hand to answer questions to those intrigued to know more.
Adding to the atmosphere, a Villains Rum tour guide will deliver captivating stories of the infamous figures behind each rum from Erik Bloodaxe to Guy Fawkes. The evening includes: a welcome drink to start your villainous journey; tasting experience of five Villains Rums, including the new Queen Gunnhildr Honey Rum; a 50ml miniature of Queen Gunnhildr Honey Rum — Limited Edition miniature, not available for general sale. Tickets: £35 per person. Age restrictions: 18+.

   
Jorvik Viking Festival Feast Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, 7pm to 11pm
CELEBRATE the end of a long winter with an unforgettable candlelit dining experience at the historic Merchant Adventurers’ Hall. Gather for a three-course feast inspired by traditional Viking fare, with live entertainment and epic tales from the past that will transport you to another era. For the first time, the Festival Feast will feature both the Best Dressed Viking and Best Beard Contest. All are welcome to enter: attire can be authentic or a new twist and beards can be natural or proudly homemade. Prizes for both competitions will be awarded on the night. Tickets: £95 per person Age restrictions: 18+.

Wednesday, February 19
Adult Crafting Barley Hall Cafe, 10am to 1pm
DIVE into the past at hands-on Viking pottery workshops. This beginner-friendly workshop uses hand-building techniques (not the wheel-thrown pottery you may have tried before) to create your own unique piece to take home – a treasure worthy of any Viking hoard. With limited spots available, booking in advance s advised.Tickets: £40 per person. Age restrictions: 16+ only. Workshop is aimed at beginners    

Poo Week DIG Lunch Room, 11am to 4pm.
SEE February 17 for details.

:The Haunting Of Fortune Farm with Sophie Kirtley York Explore Library (Mariott Room), Library Square, York, 1.30pm to 3pm
AFTER releasing her new Viking-themed novel, Sophie Kirtley, best-selling children’s author of The Wild Way Home and The Way To Impossible Island, discusses the inspiration for Edie’s mysterious adventure and what it’s like to write stories for a living. You can ask Sophie your questions, buy her new book and have it signed,Tickets: £5 for children (with a free accompanying adult), £5 extra adults,  under-fives free.  Pre-booking is essential. Age restrictions: Recommended for ages seven to 11.  

 Encampment Parliament Street, 10.30am to 4.30pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Kids Crafting Barley Hall, 10am to 4pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Berserker Boot Camp Midgard Marquee, Parliament Street, 10.30am to 4.30pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Tryggvi Treehammer’s Top Trumps Trail Across the city centre, 10.30am to 4.30pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Adult Crafting Barley Hall Cafe, 2pm to 5pm
SEE above for details.

Mead Tasting Barley Hall Great Hall, 7pm to 9pm
DISCOVER Discover your new favourite drink! Join the award-winning Lancashire Mead Company as they introduce you to the Vikings’ drink of choice: mead. Learn about the cultural and historical significance of this honey-based beverage, cherished not only by the Vikings but throughout the Middle Ages and into the 21st century! Sample a variety of delicious meads, paired with tasty nibbles, and soak up the atmosphere in the Great Hall. Skål! Tickets: £35 per person. Age restrictions: 18+.

Thursday, February 20

Poo Week DIG Lunch Room, 11am to 4pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Encampment Parliament Street, 10.30am to 4.30pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Kids Crafting Barley Hall, 10am to 4pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Berserker Boot Camp Midgard Marquee, Parliament Street, 10.30am to 4.30pm
SEE February 17 for details.

The Art of Illustration Workshop Barley Hall cafe, 11am and 2pm
JOIN illustrator Katie Smith for an exclusive event where she will share insights into her creative process, discussing how she designed the artwork for the new Vikings Top Trumps cards. The event will begin with an introductory talk, followed by a 45-minute drawing workshop, where Katie will guide participants in creating their own Top Trumps character using simple drawing techniques. Whether you are an aspiring illustrator or a Top Trumps fan, Katie’s expert tips will help you draw a character to take home with you. Additionally, attendees will be gifted a limited-edition Viking Top Trumps card, designed by Katie for the workshop, which the artist will sign. This event is designed for teenagers interested in illustration, drawing or pursuing a career in the creative arts. Tickets: £10 per person, £5 concession. Age restrictions: Suitable for age 15 to 19.

Tryggvi Treehammer’s Top Trumps Trail
SEE February 17 for details.

Helen Thirza Addyman Lecture: JORVIK Viking Centre At 40 National Centre for Early Music, Walmgate, York, 8pm to 9.45pm
JORVIK first opened its doors to the public on Saturday, April 14 1984. Join Chris Tuckley, head of interpretation & learning at York Archaeology, for an entertaining look back at how this museum and tourist attraction came to be. The lecture incorporates a screening of Jorvik Viking Centre At 40, a new documentary film that combines interviews with the original Jorvik project team and archival footage to explore the extraordinary circumstances of Jorvik’s creation. Tickets: £12, £10 concession/Friends of YAT. Age restrictions: None.

Unfeasibly Large DnD with Johnny Chiodini Barley Hall, 7pm to 9pm
STEP into an epic adventure with Dungeon Master Johnny Chiodini for a Viking-inspired game of Dungeons & Dragons like no other! With 34 players, six characters and one wild, unpredictable story, anything can happen. What’s in store? Who knows – so why not roll the dice and find out! This new addition to the festival promises chaotic fun, whether you are a seasoned D&D player or starting out. Is D&D designed for this many players? Probably not, but that will be all part of the excitement! Ready to roll a Nat 20? Book your place today! Tickets: £25 per person. Age restrictions: 18+.

Friday, February 21
Poo Week DIG Lunch Room, 11am to 4pm
SEE February 17 for details.

10th Century Traders Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, 10am to 4.30pm
STEP into 10th century York as it takes over the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall. Meet traders from across the Viking world and explore a vibrant market filled with treasures. Discover hand-crafted weaponry, authentic jewellery, drinking horns and much more. Tickets: adults £5.50; concessions £4.50; family of four £15; re-enactors £3 (with valid reenactment group card). Age restrictions:  None.

Encampment Parliament Street. 10.30am to 4.30pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Kids Crafting Barley Hall, 10am to 4pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Berserker Boot Camp Midgard Marquee, Parliament Street, 10.30am to 4.30pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Tryggvi Treehammer’s Top Trumps Trail Across the city centre, 10:30am to 4.30pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Go on an adventure with Johnny Chiodini Travelling Man, 11am to 12 noon; 12.12pm to 1.15pm; 2pm to 3pm; 3.15pm to 4.15pm
JOHNNY Chiodini, Dungeon Master of the Oxventure Dungeons & Dragons series on YouTube, guides you through the mysterious Mythic North. In this thrilling one-shot, you will face strange beings and twisted creatures that dwell in the shadows. Inspired by Nordic folklore, Vaesen is an award-winning tabletop RPG that brings dark legends to life. Tickets: £10 per person. Age restrictions: None.

Mead Cocktails and Sagas Barley Hall Great Hall, 7pm to 9pm
RAISE a horn with Nidhogger Mead Company for an evening of cocktails and Viking sagas. You may know a Mojito or an Old Fashioned, but have you ever tasted a mead cocktail? Each drink is inspired by a Viking saga, brought to life by the festival’s talented Skald. Be warned: if the mead makes you too merry, you might just become part of the story! Skål! Tickets: £35 per person. Age restrictions: 18+.

Evening Spectacular: Tyrfing. The Cursed Sword, Eye Of York, 7.30pm to 8.30pm
BE guided into a world with a chance encounter between a king and two dwarves that leads to the forging of a magical sword – but not all is at it seems. The sword is named Tyrfing and it possesses formidable powers. It can cut through rock and iron as easily as cloth or flesh. The bearer of the sword will always defeat his opponent. However, this mighty blade also carries a terrible curse. Each time it is drawn, it must taste blood. Someone must die, and it will cause three evil deeds to be done. It will destroy those who wield it and cause great suffering! Join Time Will Tell Theatre to journey into the heart of a Viking myth with trickery, beauty, death and curses. This event sells out every year, so second performance is being added to enable more people to experience this show- stopping spectacular to finish their festival week. Tickets:  adults £20; concessions (senior 60+/child aged three to 16) £15; under threes free. Age restrictions: None.    

Saturday, February 22
Archaeology On Prescription Pop-up Exhibition DIG Classroom, 10am to 5pm
CELEBRATE the achievements of the Archaeology On Prescription programme in a showcase of fascinating discoveries from the winter programme. Be hands-on with artefacts and finds unearthed during the excavation at Willow House and delve into the secrets of the post-excavation process. Hear captivating stories from project participants and uncover the rich history of the people who once called this area home. Tickets: N/A. Age restrictions: None.

10th Century Traders Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, 10am to 4.30pm
SEE February 21 for details.

Encampment Parliament Street, 10.30am to 4.30pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Kids Crafting Barley Hall, 10am to 4pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Berserker Boot Camp Midgard Marquee, Parliament Street, 10.30am to 4.30pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Tryggvi Treehammer’s Top Trumps Trail Across the city centre, 10.30am to 4.30pm
SEE February 17 for details.

Kids Barbaric Battle Eye of York, 10.30am to 11am and 11.30am to 12 noon
EVERY Viking remembers their first battle. Now comes the turn of your little warrior in the new Kids Barbaric Battle. Up to 100 young fighters will step into the Eye of York to prove themselves worthy of Valhalla . This is a practice battle, so safety comes first: foam weapons, shields and equipment are all provided. Little Vikings aged under five will need an adult by their side on the battlefield. If you want to prepare children for combat, check out the Berserker Bootcamp workshops for the ultimate Viking training. Tickets: £5 per child (accompanying adults free). Age restrictions: Accompanying adult required for under fives; optional for under sevens.

Viking Games Eye of York, 1.3pm to 2.30pm
BACK by popular demand for 2025, two teams face off in the family-friendly Viking Games. Contestants battle it out in a test of strength, skill, cunning and wisdom with Odin as the referee. Expect combat, feats of endurance and laughs aplenty along the way. Please note, if you wish to participate in the March To Coppergate, you will not be able to join the Viking Games as it will already be under way. Tickets:  adults £10 adults; concessions (Senior 60+/ children aged three to 16) £5; under threes free. Low income tickets: adults £5; concessions £2.50; under threes free. Age restrictions: None.    

March To Coppergate York Minster to  Coppergate, 1.30pm to 2pm
THE Viking March is a festival tradition like no other as Viking warriors parade through the city. Don’t miss your chance to experience their thunderous war cries echoing through the streets of York. Tickets: Free. Age restrictions:  None.    

Evening Spectacular: Tyrfing. The Cursed Sword, Eye Of York, 7.30pm to 8.30pm
SEE February 21 for details.
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Who is taking part in York Community Choir Festival 2025 and what will they sing?

York Wellbeing Choir members singing at York Community Choir Festival in 2024. Picture: Jenny Jones

YORK Community Choir Festival 2025 will run from March 2 to 8 when more than 1,250 voices will grace the Joseph Rowntree Theatre stage in York.

A festival that began in 2016 with 11 choirs taking part in three concerts will comprise eight concerts in 2025, each featuring up to five choirs, drawn fromHarrogate, Easingwold, Malton, Fairburn, Selby and Pocklington, as well as York.

Choirs of all sizes and types take the stage – all ladies, all men and mixed voices – covering everything from pop classics and show tunes to blues, jazz, folk, world, classical and religious music.

The smallest choir has ten members; Huntington School has 75 representatives and 50 will be participating from schools across the Excel Learning Trust Academy.

Some choirs will give a nod to the JoRo’s 90th birthday celebrations by performing a song from the 1935 “hit parade” in their set.

Festival chair Graham Mitchell says: “I moved to York in 2012, joined the theatre board in 2013 and was immediately struck by the number of choirs in York and the surrounding area, compared with where I had been living previously.

“I asked a colleague where they all sang and was told church halls, community centres and occasionally civic buildings or major halls.

Fairburn Singers on song at the 2024 festival. Picture: Jenny Jones

“It was a no-brainer as far as I was concerned that the theatre needed to give all these people a place to sing that was a real theatrical experience. Now, in the festival’s tenth year, the theatre’s decision to reach out and welcome all forms of performance has been fully justified.”

“In addition to choirs telling us how much they love the experience of being part of a major York event in lovely and welcoming surroundings, the festival ticket sales contribute to the theatre’s “Heart For The Arts Appeal”, raising funds for the improvement of theatre facilities that will benefit all theatre goers”.

March 2’s choirs will be: Selby Youth Choir; The Stray Notes (Harrogate); Aviva Vivace!; Singing Communities: Poppleton and  Easingwold Community Singers. March 3, Euphonics Ladies Choir; The Pocklington Singers; Track 29 Ladies Close Harmony Chorus;
Cantar Community Choir and Community Chorus.  March 4: Jubilate; York City Harmonisers; Ryedale Voices; Supersingers and The Rolling Tones.

March 5: Stagecoach Performing Arts Choir; The Sounds Fun Singers; The Garrowby Singers; In Harmony Ladies Choir and  Stamford Bridge Community Choir. March 6: Huntington Schools’ Choirs; York Military Wives Choir and Heworth Community Choir. March 7, York Theatre Royal Choir; Eboraca; Some Voices York; Bishopthorpe Community Choir and Harmonia.

March 8 matinee: Excel Learning Trust Schools’ Choir; The Rhythm Of Life Singers; The Fairburn Singers and The York Celebration Singers. March 8, evening: York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir; Chechelele, York Sing Space (Musical Theatre Choir); The Wellbeing Choir and Main Street Sound Ladies Barbershop Chorus.

Graham adds: “In addition to choirs telling us how much they love the experience of being part of a major York event in lovely and welcoming surroundings, the festival ticket sales contribute to the Rowntree Theatre’s Heart For The Arts Appeal, raising funds for the improvement of theatre facilities that will benefit all theatre-goers”.

Tickets are on sale on 01904 501935 or at josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk. Evening concerts start at 7.30pm except March 2 at 6pm; March 8 matinee, 2.30pm.

Stagecoach Junior Choir taking part in last year’s festival. Picture: Murray Swain

York Community Choir Festival 2025 programme of songs

March 2, 6pm

Selby Youth Choir will sing: Raising My Voice; This Little Light Of Mine; Dreamer; Count On Me, Pure Imagination and I’m A Believer.

The Stray Notes: Let The River Run; A Thousand Years;  I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For; Who But The Lord and The Scientist.

Aviva Vivace!: Ain’t No Sunshine, 80s’ Medley and Cheek To Cheek.

Singing Communities: Poppleton: Ticket To Ride; City Of Stars; Moor River; True Colours and Cantar.

Easingwold Community Singers: Go Down Deep; Ezatale; I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free; Shanty Medley; Spring Comes In; Dream A Little Dream and Life Is A Song.

March 3, 7.30pm

Euphonics: Flying Free, The Lady Is A Tramp; Colours Of The Wind; Song Sung Blue and California Dreamin’.

The Easingwold Singers: The Lord Is My Shepherd; Why Do The Roses, Magic Moments; Cantique de Jean Racine and The Seal Lullaby.

Track 29 Ladies Close Harmony Chorus: Ascot Gavotte; Chatanooga Choo Choo; Blue Moon; The Gospel Train; De Battle Of Jericho; Steel Away To Jesus; Only You and Goodnight Sweetheart.

Cantar Community Choir: Harbour; TaReKita; Sure On This Shining Night; Follow The Heron and Be The Change.

Community Chorus: Top Hat And Tails; Don’t Sit Under The Apple Tree; King Of The Road; Breakout and You Can’t Stop The Beat.

March 4, 7.30pm

Jubilate: Autumn Leaves; Frankie And Johnny; Blue Skies; Cross The Wide Missouri and House Of The Raising Sun.

York City Harmonisers: Overture; Songbird; More I Cannot Wish You; Dancing In The Dark; Music Of The Night and New York, New York.

Ryedale Voices: Mack The Knife; Pokarekare Ana; Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around; Ramblin’ Sailor and Come What May.

SuperSingers: What A Wonderful World; With A Little Help From My Friends; Blue Moon; Defying Gravity; Never Enough and Waterloo.

The Rolling Tones: Rolling In The Deep; Shenandoah; Disney Movie Showstoppers; All Night, All Day and Crazy Little Thing Called Love.

March 5, 7.30pm

Stagecoach York Junior Choir: I’m A Believer; Please Can I Have A C?; Stars Mash Up and Aladdin Medley.

Sounds Fun Singers: Downtown; There Will Come Soft Rains; Smoke Gets In Your Eyes; Popular (from Wicked) and You Can’t Stop The Beat.

The Garrowby Singers: Lullaby Of Broadway; The Stars Are With The Voyager; Let The Praise Go Round; Wild Horses and River In Judea.

In Harmony Ladies Choir: The Lord Is My Shepherd; Sumer Is Icumen In; The Sound Of Silence; Summertime and Zadok The Priest.

Stamford Bridge Community Choir: Wellerman; California Dreamin’; Run; I Will Follow Him and Sing, Sing, Sing.

Easingwold Community Singers performing at the York Community Choir Festival in 2024. Picture: Murray Swain

March 6, 7.30pm

Huntington School Choirs: Apple Tree; Closer To Fine; Hakuna Mungu Kama Wewe; Fire And Rain; And So It Goes; Hide And Seek; Ubi Caritas; Wonderwall; Jolly Roving Tar; Break My Stride and Keep Your Head Up.

York Military Wives Choir: November Sunday; For Good; When Will I See You Again; Make You Feel My Love; Carry Me and Home Thoughts From Abroad.

Heworth Community Choir: Ticket To Ride; The Ground; Little Blue; Pokarekare Ana and I’ll Be On My Way.

March 7, 7.30pm

York Theatre Royal Choir: It’s Grand Night For Singing; The Lord Is My Shepherd; Let The River Run; I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free; Anthem and Exultate Deo.

Eboraca: Cum Decore; Blue Moon; A Nightingale Sung In Berkeley Square; I Want It That Way and Walking On Sunshine.

Some Voices: I Wanna Dance With Somebody; Freed From Desire; Crazy In Love and Pink Pony Club.

Bishopthorpe Community Choir: Yundah; Run: Kiss From A Rose; Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow and It Must Be Love.

Harmonia: Get Happy; Ca’ The Yowes; Sing A Song Of Sixpence; Embraceable You and Dubula.

March 8, 2.30pm

Excel Learning Trust Choir: Our Time; Song Of The Sea; Viva La Vida and Glorious.

The Rhythm Of Life Singers: If I Had A Hammer; Three Song Medley; Three Little Birds; Edelweiss and Sing.

Fairburn Singers: One Voice; I Am A Small Part Of The World; Why We Sing; Come Follow The Band and When The Saints Go Marching In.

York Celebration Singers: One (from A Chorus Line); 1935 Mash Up; Java Jive; Tell Me It’s Not True; Abba Medley and One Day More.

March 8, 7.30pm

York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir: Tydi a Roddaist; Run; Down By The Riverside; What Shall We Do With The Drunken Sailor; He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother and Alexander’s Ragtime Band.

Chechelele: Akanamandia; Ngothando; E Malama; Hope Lingers On; Ke Dau Bibi and Ladum Izulu.

York Sing Space Musical Theatre Choir: Welcome To The 60s; Come From Away Medley; Wicked Medley and A Million Dreams.

York Wellbeing Choir: Oklahoma; Hallelujah Get Happy; From A Distance; Tomorrow and A Little Peace.

Main Street Sound: White Winter Hymnal; Shenandoah; That Man; Girl On Fire and This Is Me.

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REVIEW: Martin Dreyer’s verdict on York Guildhall Orchestra, York Barbican, 9/2/25

Cellist Jamie Walton: “Rarely can a cello have sounded so august and avuncular at the same time.” Picture: Matthew Johnson

TWO orchestras were on display in this afternoon concert. One got lost somewhere in the forests and swamplands of Karelia, North Eastern Finland. The other one took inspiration from Shakespeare as imagined by Tchaikovsky and finally peaked with Shostakovich.

All orchestras have off-days and it is to the credit of Simon Wright and his charges that they snapped out of their early doldrums as well as they did. They opened with Sibelius’s Karelia suite and Bloch’s mini cello concerto Schelomo (Solomon), with Tchaikovsky’s fantasy overture Romeo And Juliet and Shostakovich’s Ninth Symphony after the interval.

The Sibelius certainly reflected the rugged, ragged tundra but not perhaps in the way the composer might have preferred. Entries were indecisive and the good form that the horns have been enjoying in recent times deserted them.

There was compensation in the central Ballade with a smooth cor anglais solo from Fleur Hughes and rhythms were crisper in the closing march. But the work as a whole sounded tentative.

With the advent of the Bloch, Jamie Walton’s cello immediately injected new life. His passion was not overlaid but came from deep within, emerging especially richly from his lowest string. Rarely can a cello have sounded so august and avuncular at the same time.

Solomon’s sometimes desperate rhapsodising, as Bloch interpreted his words from Ecclesiastes, was lent added depth by solos from bassoon and two trumpets. But it was Walton who penetrated to the heart of Solomon’s personality, alternating moments of rumination with explosions of anger.

There must have been something special in the interval drinks. It was a different orchestra that turned out for Romeo And Juliet. The woodwind choir set an elegiac tone in the Friar Laurence section, but when the strings delivered a brilliant streak in the middle of the vendetta music there was no looking back.

The love theme emerged sensitively from the muted violas. When the returning orchestral fury had finally died away, Romeo’s lamentation brought the fantasy to a tender close.

Shostakovich’s Ninth Symphony calls for a classical orchestra, with the addition of a piccolo. That instrument, in the deft hands of Felicity Jones, paired with trombone conjured a tingling buffoonery in the opening Allegro. There was a striking clarity, too, in the lyrical romanza that followed. When we reached the careering Scherzo, the orchestra was patently enjoying itself at last.

There remained Isabel Dowell’s plaintively touching bassoon, set off by the low brass quartet, before a return to drollery in the martial extravaganza of the finale. Wright was now confident enough in his players to goad them into a coda of brilliant acceleration.

Review by Martin Dreyer

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Real People Theatre to hold Inspired By? workshop in York International Women’s Week at SPARK York on March 8

REAL People Theatre, the York women’s community theatre group, will run a workshop for York International Women’s Week on March 8.

The event will run from 2pm to 4pm in person at SPARK York, Piccadilly, York, and on Zoom. Contact artistic director Sue Lister on 01904 488870 for the link.

The workshop will consider what the news of today is inspired by. “What or who has inspired you?”asks Sue. “A person past or present? An experience? The arts or sciences, exploration? Or have you been inspired by nature in all her wonders? As women, let’s share our inspirations and how they have influenced our lives.”

“This will be our 25th offering in the festival,” Sue continues. “It would be good to share women’s stories and record those who want to as a collage of positive life experiences! We need a bit of cheering up these days. The edited recording would go on my small YouTube channel, YouTube@ListerInteractions.

“By the way, if you can’t make March 8, I’ll be running the workshop again on March 12, same time, same place, same format for AWOC York (Ageing without the support of nearby children or family) All ‘awocs’ and allies are welcome.”

Sue will turn 80 next month. “I’m trying to slow down, so if anyone would like to run a drama workshop in the future under the Real People Theatre umbrella, do give me a ring.”

The full festival programme can be found at www.yorkwomen.org.uk.


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More Things To Do in York and beyond when Viking beards roam the streets. Hutch’s List No. 7, from The York Press

Stag burning at the Jorvik Viking Festival. More fun and games next week. Picture: Charlotte Graham

THE boat-burning Vikings are back as Charles Hutchinson looks forward to an action-packed February half-term.

Festival of the week: 40th anniversary Jorvik Viking Festival, York, February 17 to 23

A NEW Viking longship, a sword that never misses its target and recreations of the world’s largest fossilised poo take centre stage at Europe’s largest Viking Festival over half-term. Five days of Norse fun, living history, hands-on combat and lectures culminate in a parade of more than 200 Vikings through the historic streets on February 22 and two dramatic evening son-et-lumière shows. 

A free living history encampment takes over Parliament Street with an array of tents featuring craftsmen and traders, with the opportunity to handle replica armour and weapons. For the full programme and to book tickets, go to jorvikvikingfestival.co.uk.

Emma Swainston’s Elle Woods, seated, with Bruiser, the Chihuahua (played by Lily), in York Light Opera Company’s Legally Blonde The Musical. Picture: Matthew Kitchen Photography

The power of pink musical of the week: York Light Opera Company in Legally Blonde The Musical, York Theatre Royal, until February 22, 7.30pm nightly (except February 16) plus 2.30pm matinees today, February 20 and 22

JOIN Elle Woods, a seemingly ditzy sorority girl with a heart of gold, as she tackles Harvard Law School to win back her man. Along the way, Elle discovers her own strength and intelligence, “proving that you can be both blonde and brilliant”.

Emma Swainston’s Elle Woods leads Martyn Knight’s 35-strong cast in this feel-good, sassy and stylish show with its powerful message of staying true to yourself, booted with music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin and book by Heather Hach. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

David O’Doherty: Irish humour and song at Grand Opera House, York

Comedy show of the week: David O’Doherty, Tiny Piano Man, Grand Opera House, York, tonight, 8pm

THE dishevelled prince of €10 eBay keyboards tries to make you feel alive with a pageant of Irish humour, song and occasionally getting up from a chair. “It’s gonna be a big one,” says Dublin comedian, author, musician, actor and playwright David O’Doherty, star of The Great Celebrity Bake Off 2024 and Along For The Ride With David O’Doherty. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.

Chloe Petts: Getting personal in How You See Me, How You Don’t at Theatre@41, Monkgate

Alternative comedy gig of the week: Chloe Petts, How You See Me, How You Don’t, Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, tonight, 8pm

CHLOE Petts returns with a new show and this time she’s getting personal. Between her newly found trolls, ‘oldly’ found school bullies and an excellent relationship with her food tech teacher, she brings her trademark ‘laddishness’ to tell you who she really is, all while her Head Girl badge glistens on her chest. Box office for returns only: tickets.41monkgate.co.uk.

Gareth Gates: Turning romantic crooner in a Valentine mood at York Barbican

Romantic concert of the week: Gareth Gates Sings Love Songs From The Movies – A Valentine Special, York Barbican, Sunday, 7.30pm

EXTENDING the St Valentine’s Day vibes to the weekend, Bradford singer Gareth Gates combines beloved ballads from classic films with the electrifying energy of up-tempo hits, from Unchained Melody to Dirty Dancing, in a celebration of love stories that have graced the silver screen.

Joining the 2002 Pop Idol alumnus and musical star will be Wicked actress Maggie Lynne, Dutch singer Britt Lenting, Performers College graduate Dan Herrington and a four-piece band. Box office: yorkbarbican.co.uk.

Abbie Budden’s Annette Hargrove in Bill Kenwright Ltd’s production of Cruel Intentions: The’90s Musical, on tour at Grand Opera House, York, from Tuesday. Picture: Pamela Raith

Dangerous liaison of the week: Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical, Grand Opera House, York, February 18 to 22, Tuesday to Thursday, 7.30pm; Wednesday, 2.30pm; Friday, 5pm and 8.30pm; Saturday, 2.30pm and 7.30pm

CREATED by Jordan Ross, Lindsey Rosin and Roger Kumble from Kumble’s 1999 film spin on Les Liaisons Dangereuses, this American musical is powered by the 1990s’ pop gold dust of Britney Spears, Boyz II Men, Christina Aguilera, TLC, R.E.M., Ace Of Base, Natalie Imbruglia and The Verve.

Step siblings Sebastian Valmont (Will Callan) and Kathryn Merteuil (Nic Myers) engage in a cruel bet, where Kathryn goads Sebastian into attempting to seduce Annette Hargrove (Abbie Budden), the headmaster’s virtuous daughter. Weaving a web of secrets and temptation, their crusade wreaks havoc on the students at their exclusive Manhattan high school. Soon the dastardly plotters become entangled in their own web of deception and unexpected romance, with explosive results. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.

Stuart Green’s police inspector, Truscott, left, and Miles John’s thief, Dennis, in rehearsal for York Settlement Community Players’ production of Loot

Scandalous play of the week: York Settlement Community Players in Loot, York Theatre Royal Studio, February 18 to 27, 7.45pm except February 23; 2pm, February 22

KATIE Leckey directs the Settlement Players in agent provocateur Joe Orton’s scabrous 1965 farce, the one with two thieves, dodgy police officers, adult themes, offensive language, sexism and xenophobia, references to sexual assault, including rape and necrophilia, a live actor playing a dead body in a coffin and digs at the Roman Catholic Church.

Don’t let that put you off! Yes, it still carries a content warning and age recommendation of 16 upwards, but it remains outrageously funny. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

Wharfemede Productions director Helen Spencer, centre, rehearsing her role as Marmee in Little Women with Connie Howcroft’s Jo, left, Catherine Foster’s Meg, Rachel Higgs’s Beth and Tess Ellis’s Amy. Picture: Matthew Warry

Marching on together: Wharfemede Productions: Little Women – The Broadway Musical, Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, February 18 to 22, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm Saturday matinee

HELEN Spencer directs York company Wharfemede Productions in their first solo show, playing Marmee too in Allan Knee, Jason Howland and Mindi Dickstein’s musical account of Louisa May Alcott’s story of the March sister – traditional Meg, wild, aspiring writer Jo, timid Beth and romantic Amy – growing up in Concord, Massachusetts, while their chaplain father is away serving during the American Civil War. Box office: tickets.41monkgate.co.uk.

Ugg’n’Ogg tell the story of The World’s First Dogg at Milton Rooms, Malton

Children’s play of the week: Rural Arts presents Fideri Fidera in Ugg’n’Ogg & The World’s First Dogg, Milton Rooms, Malton, February 20, 2pm

IN the fresh sparkling world just after the last Ice Age, there were no dogs. How, then, did we attain our best friend and the world’s number one pet? Luckily for us, along came young hunter gatherers Ugg‘n’Ogg to pal up with the wolves, Tooth’n’Claw, to defy flying meat bones, raging forest infernos and even a time-travelling stick to invent the dog.

This original play for pooch lovers aged three upwards highlights the evolutionary transition from lupine to canine in a show full of physical comedy, puppets, music and song. Box office: 01653 696240 or themiltonrooms.com.

In Focus: Exhibition refresh: Secrets Of Dress, Yorkshire Castle Museum, Fashion Gallery, Eye of York, York, from February 15

Fashion exhibits in the Secrets Of Dress exhibition at York Castle Museum. Picture: Duncan Lomax, Ravage Productions, for York Museums Trust

YORK Castle Museum’s Fashion Gallery has been refreshed, remodelled and enhanced for 2025 with new items and fresh interpretations to show Secrets Of Dress from the Middle Ages to the opening decades of the 21st century.

Not merely a fashion exhibition,  this re-boot is an opportunity to look at dress and textiles from the perspective of social history, exploring what clothes and accessories can reveal about our lives and experiences.

Every object has a secret to tell, hence Secrets Of Dress provides insights into ways of life that are very different to today and yet relatable. From 400-year-old sequins to Second World War utility shoes, from the cottage industry of old Yorkshire to the factory-produced fashions of the industrial age, this is social history brought alive by the story of dress.

Dr Faye M Prior, Curator of Social History, with a 1970s’ outfit designed by Angela Holmes for her York-based fashion brand Droopy & Browns. The outfit was kindly donated by Angela’s sister, Leone Cockburn, and her niece, Clare Cockburn. Picture:  Duncan Lomax, Ravage Productions, for York Museums Trust

This bespoke exhibition has been updated for the 21st century with a new section focusing on the City of York: York Makers. Thanks to the diligent research of York Castle Museum volunteers, York Makers presents York-made clothing, textiles and textile-working tools from the Middle Ages to the present day, alongside the stories of the people who made and used them.

York Makers celebrates creative people who lived and worked in York, some of whom contributed nationally as well as regionally to fashion.

On display are outfits by York-based designers Angela Holmes, founder of Droopy & Browns, and Vivien Smith, founder of Vivien Smith Simply Clothes. These two entrepreneurs created iconic fashion brands that offered distinctive styles on the high street from the 1960s to the early 2000s.

Gloves made of straw from the Secrets Of Dress exhibition at York Castle Museum. Picture: Duncan Lomax, Ravage Productions, for York Museums Trust

Other York Makers include Victorian shirtmaker Herbert Morris Crouch, who ran his own shop on Coney Street, and Mrs Maria Cook, the dressmaker whose ‘Made In York’ label sparked the volunteer research project.

Secrets Of Dress showcases 500 years of clothing, accessories and textiles, including items never displayed until now. Every object has something to tell, and many show repairs and adaptations, revealing how practices thought to be modern, such as ‘upcycling’ and ‘remaking’, have a long tradition.

Displayed in an accessible and fun way, iconic items and textiles from the 1960s and 1970s will be recognisable immediately. Visitors can touch, feel and try on costumes re-created by costume designer Naomi Pugh – aka ‘Nomes’ – of Textiles by Gnomes, and enjoy family trails with Little Spotters Trails, including a colouring page for creative little ones.

York Castle Museum is open Monday, 11am to 5pm; Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm. Tickets: adult £17; child £10.20; concessions available. Tickets are valid for 12 months. Children of York residents enter for free.

Visitors taking a close look at clothing and shoes in the Secrets Of Dress exhibition at York Castle Museum. Picture: Duncan Lomax, Ravage Productions, for York Museums Trust

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St Valentine’s Day show of the day: Lying Together, dark improv comedy, Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, tonight, 8pm

Alex Keen and Rachel E Thorn: Improving tonight’s performance of Lying Together at Theatre@41, Monkgate, York

TUCK into a black comedy of sex and deception, improvised completely by award-winning comedians Alex Keen and Rachel E Thorn at Theatre@41 on St Valentine’s night.

“Each performance is inspired by a lie told or a secret kept in a real romantic relationship, submitted by members of the public like you,” say Alex and Rachel, who then explore an anonymous confession chosen by the audience.

“You can submit a secret you’ve kept, a lie someone has told you or something you’ve heard about from a friend, but weren’t personally involved in. All we ask is that you only submit genuine secrets and lies between a couple.”

Previous inspirations include:

  • Rachel sat in a shepherd’s pie and pretended the dog ate it;
  • Alex told Rachel he’d been in a car accident;
  • Rachel hid the fact that the wedding she went to was her ex’s;
  • Alex told Rachel his mum was dead when she wasn’t.

“Let’s find out why we lie to the people we love,” say Alex and Rachel, who invite submissions via lyingtogether.co.uk. Hurry, hurry!

They first worked together when they co-created Scriptless In Seattle, nominated for Best Improv Show at Leicester Comedy Festival.

They then formed the two-hander improv Between Us, winner of Act of the Year in the Phoenix Remix awards, next made Sex, Lies & Improvisation and now perform Lying Together.

They also co-created and tour the award-winning show MATES: The Improvised ’90s Sitcom with Hugh Clark.

Alex and Rachel have taught improvisation at home and abroad for: Equity UK; Chicago Dramatic Improv Festival; British Improv Project; The Cambridge Impronauts; Nottingham Student Improv Festival; Liverpool Comedy Improv; Sheffield Improv Jam; Making Room at Sheffield Theatres; The Same Faces; The Shrimps and Wayward Souls.

The tour poster image for Lying Together

Alex Keen: the back story

CO-CREATED, coaches and performs with Sturike Comedy, who have made the shows Teen High: An Improvised High School Movie, Story Time and Fan Friction.

Alex co-founded and co-runs the Sheffield Improv Jam, a bi-monthly improv event in Sheffield. He is a welfare officer and teacher at the British Improv Project, a biannual residential retreat in the Midlands. He has performed with The Shrimps, Cambridge Impronauts, The Same Faces, Stealing the Show and Tiny Stories. More information at www.alexrkeen.com.

Rachel E Thorn: the back story

CO-CREATED CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation and performed with Cambridge Impronauts, Upstairs Downton and The Shrimps.

Rachel’s scripted work has been long-listed by the Kenneth Branagh Award, the Female Pilot Club, the Painkiller Prize and Pentabus. She has written for Dead Ringers, The Now Show, DMs Are Open, Newsjack andBreaking The News.

Her sketch comedy has been aired on BBC Radio and she has collaborated with impressionists Alistair McGowan, Charlie Hopkinson and Darren Altman. She trained at Drama Studio London. More information at www.rachelethorn.com.

For tickets for tonight’s improv performance, make a Valentine’s Day date at tickets.41monkgate.co.uk.

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