Ingrid Bolton-Gabrielsen’s Molly clashes with Ravneet Sehra’s police officer, Uzma, as Emily Chattle’s vicar, Fiona, tends to the injured Alland (Aein Nasseri) in Sanctuary. Picture: Robling Photography
RED Ladder’s first touring production under the direction of new artistic director Cheryl Martin asks: “What kind of society do we want to live in?”
One where the arts can thrive, one where the medium’s message of co-operation, collaboration, freedom of expression, communion, connection, compassion and shared humanity spreads its wings to society at large.
One where there would be an understanding of why asylum-seeking young Iranian journalist Alland (played by Aein Nasseri) is seeking sanctuary at a church in northern England in this topical new musical by Boff Whalley (music and lyrics) and Sarah Woods (book).
Pioneering Leeds agit-prop theatre company Red Ladder has united with Wakefield Theatre Royal and CAPA College, Wakefield, for a tour of theatres, community venues and, significantly, churches from September 19 to November 9. Everyone is pulling in one direction, unlike the protagonists in this fraught drama, the different forces at play within a fractured State and Church at war with itself.
In prayer: Emily Chattle’s vicar, Fiona, in Sanctuary. Picture: Robling Photography
The programme cover takes the form of an Order of Service, on account of what will happen at the climax, but it also further pushes the Church to the fore of the debate that plays out contentiously.
Word has it that the script has been toned down, but it still packs a punch, and where better to watch the sparks fly than in a church, Selby Abbey, for all the familiar frustrations of imperfect sight lines, lighting and sound not being on a par with theatre facilities. (Faces were not well lit; some lines were lost to the acoustics of a vertiginous stone building.)
There is nothing rose-tinted about Red Ladder here. Tellingly, Sanctuary tells its story from all sides. It does not shy away from Alland being an illegal immigrant, already told to leave but pleading to stay for fear of what would ensue if he were to return to Iran, where his courageous journalism had challenged the authorities on their treatment of women.
Church worker Molly (Ingrid Bolton-Gabrielsen) and all-inclusive vicar Fiona (York actress, singer and clown Emily Chattle) support him.
CAPA College performing arts students in the Greek chorus role of Vox in Sanctuary. Picture: Robling Photography
Stone-hearted higher church authority Peter (York actor and keyboard player Richard Kay) plays it by the book, (the law of the land, not the spirit of the Good Book). So does police officer Uzma (Ravneet Sehra), a third-generation British Asian woman who attends the Christian church. The difference between Alland and her immigrant grandparents, she says, is that he came here illegally whereas they were invited to work here.
Sanctuary is billed as a musical, rather than a play with music, but the greater weight of the piece, the drama, lies in the confrontations, the differences of opinion, red tape versus blue sky thinking, the moments of confession and contemplation, albeit that protagonists burst into song in the tradition of song being the ultimate form of emotional expression when mere words won’t suffice.
There is a second musical force at play too: the CAPA College performing arts students that serve as Sanctuary’s Greek chorus, Vox, commenting in song on what is unfolding (and joining Kay in his second role as a vigilante by playing protestors too at one point). In white, they have the presence of protective angels; in dark hoods, they become symbols of the devil, in Caitlin Mawhinney’s costume design.
At times, the chorus songs feel more like the stuff of a school musical, but musical director Jennifer Pugh pulls powerful vocal performances out of Nasseri, Kay, Bolton-Gabrielsen and especially Chattle, often in tandem with Vox. Sehra’s singing of Uzma’s Lament needed better amplification to have had its desired impact.
Ravneet Sehra singing Uzma’s Lament in Sanctuary. Picture: Robling Photography
On a night of so much debate, one more came to mind: would Sanctuary have had more dramatic impetus if there had been fewer songs? Certainly, it would have cranked up the hostile environment still more in this bitter pill of a modern-day riff on Brechtian musical theatre.
Whalley posits that “music can cross divides, it can patch up differences between people, which is what Sanctuary will hope to do”, but the wound here – a nation in turmoil over immigration – appears to be growing deeper, beyond music’s healing, bonding powers.
In a nutshell, Sanctuary asks, “Do we want safety and freedom for only ourselves, or for us all?” There should be only one answer, but that would require reform, not Reform.
“I hope this musical helps open up this conversation because it’s one that goes to the heart of who we are and the kind of society we want to live in,” says director Martin. In the best of worlds, the arts can lead that progression, but right now it feels like a voice in the wilderness.
Red Ladder Theatre Company in Sanctuary, Wesley Centre, Harrogate, October 12, 7.30pm. Box office: Harrogate, 01423 502116 or harrogatetheatre.co.uk. Age guidance: 13 upwards.
Did you know?
SANCTUARY is supported by the Mayor of West Yorkshire’s Safer Communities Fund.
Opera North in James Brining’s revival of The Magic Flute. Picture: Tristram Kenton
FOR the start of her first full year as general director, Laura Canning is presiding over an autumn of three revivals, of which this production by James Brining is the first.
Doubtless she had no say in the schedule, but it still looks cautious, especially when viewed in the wake of, for example, Buxton Festival’s five new productions this summer.
Brining operates as artistic director of Leeds Playhouse, just a short walk away from the Grand Theatre, and this had been his first full operatic production. It still shows signs of over-calculation.
Before the curtain we are treated to a welcome designed to embrace newcomers. Old-stagers might have regarded it as patronising but, seen alongside a bare-bones outline in the programme of what constitutes opera in the first place, it is arguably a useful introduction to an artform that too many have found intimidating: an attempt to cast the audience net more widely, in other words.
This process must be treated gingerly, however, if the company’s core audience is not to be deterred. The overture is intended as an introduction, presenting themes and building anticipation.
All of that is dissipated when it is overlaid with a dumb show, based on Bergman’s cinematic view of the whole work being a child’s dream/nightmare, that has little or nothing to do with Mozart. So, overture and dumb show are at odds with one another: in our screen-obsessed age, the eyes take over and the overture goes for naught.
As it was, Christoph Koncz, making his Leeds debut, opened the overture very slowly and followed with an extremely rapid allegro, which the orchestra – now under its new leader Katie Stillman – handled with panache. Thereafter Koncz impresses with the transparency of the textures he conjures.
Egor Zhuravskii has graduated from Fenton in Falstaff to Tamino here, and does so smoothly enough. Narrow at the start, his tone opens out over time but remains a little dry, albeit stylish. There is not much genuine feeling between him and Claire Lees’s admirable Pamina, but she entrances with every appearance and sounds ready for greater things.
Leaning heavily on his Welsh lilt, Emyr Wyn Jones makes an affable dunderhead of Papageno, almost taking the pantomime route, while Anna Dennis makes an imposing Queen of Night, edgy, determined and accurate.
Msimelelo Mbali, as Sarastro, lacks the gravitas shown by Andri Björn Robertsson’s Speaker, but his bass grows in authority in Act 2. Colin Judson offers an apt irritant as Monostatos, in place of the repellent figure we had last time.
Pasquale Orchard makes a charming Papagena, although she is introduced to Papageno early and deprived of her ‘old lady’ disguise. Many of the lesser roles are ably assumed by members of the chorus, proving its versatility.
Colin Richmond’s flexible set proves its worth once again, as does Douglas O’Connell’s high-impact video effects.
Brining envisaged Blakean poles of innocence and experience. He might instead have allowed Mozart and Schikaneder – in Jeremy Sams’s colloquial translation – to speak for themselves. The plot is complicated enough as it is.
Review by Martin Dreyer
Performances: Leeds Grand Theatre, February 12, 13, 15 and 22 2025, 7pm. Box office: 0113 243 0808 or leedsheritagetheatres.com. Hull New Theatre, March 27 and 29 2025, 7pm. Box office: hulltheatres.co.uk.
Duo Pleyel: Richard Egarr and Alexandra Nepomnyashchaya
Duo Pleyel –Richard Egarr and Alexandra Nepomnyashchaya (fortepiano), Mozart’s Real Musical Father, Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall, University of York
I THOUGHT Duo Pleyel’s programme title, Mozart’s Real Musical Father, was a bit of a stretch, but it turned out to be an inspired one.
The pieces in the programme were composed between 1772 and 1786 and showcase the early developmental years of the piano duet, as well as musically documenting the unlikely, or rather, little known, friendship between Mozart and JC Bach [German composer Johann Christian Bach, youngest son of Johann Sebastian Bach].
Bach was a major composer at this time and clearly a major influence on the young Mozart, but his music seems to have been relegated to the second division by both history and fashion. So the chance to hear these two sonatas was very welcome and illuminating.
Both performances displayed the relative simplicity, elegance and immediacy we expect from the reactionary style galant, a modern style that gives primacy on melody and harmony overcomplex counterpoint. But the works were very different in character.
The Sonata in F, op 18, no.6 was indeed “full of unbridled fun and playful virtuosity”. The music positively zipped along with the players knocking ideas back and forth; the communication between the two came across as simply instinctive. A real feature throughout the concert performance.
It was also inspired, resulting in creative decorative enrichment and even ‘unwritten’ cadenzas. Was this genuinely an in-the-moment thing? I don’t know, but it sounded like it.
Having said that, I actually preferred the Sonata in A, op 18, no.5. It just radiated with tenderness. And who wouldn’t be seduced by those gorgeous extended cadences.
The concert opened with Mozart’s early Sonata in D K.381. What struck me here was the dramatic exploitation of the contrasting register and dynamics. It was almost symphonic – loud ‘orchestral’ tuttis etc. But then Mozart was not only an instinctive ‘operatic’ composer, it was also in his DNA.
Richard Egarr is not only an exceptional musician, he is also an excellent communicator, albeit a slightly whacky one. A self-confessed Trekkie, who performs regularly “all over the planet”, presumably Earth, he engages with the audience in a singularly unique manner.
There was an early window (after the Mozart) into the pedalling on this distinguished 1848 Pleyel piano with a parallel drawn with the state-of-the-art IPhone16. He even threw in a reference to Karl Marx just for good measure.
I suppose the standout performance must have been Mozart’s Variations in G, K 501. The theme had echoes of The Magic Flute; the ‘miserable’ 4th variation was so engaging with heartfelt, touching exchanges.
But it was the signing off – the incredible use of the piano’s sordino lever, leaving the music disappearing into the mist – that was so telling. Haunting and quite magical. As indeed, was the playing in the Adagio of the Sonata in Bb, K. 358 where it just melted into the ears.
The musical chemistry between Richard Egarr and Alexandra Nepomnyashchaya was palpable and the concert performance sounded like a shared intimacy. This was further enhanced by the natural charm and communicative skills of Mr Egarr himself, who included the audience as a genuine part of the concert experience.
DEL Boy in a musical, a Dungeon murderess, a Greek teen tragedy and a top-Rankin Scottish detective are well worth investigating, advises Charles Hutchinson.
New attraction of the week: The Black Widow, York Dungeon, Clifford Street, York, from today, from 10am
THIS Hallowe’en season’s new show at York Dungeon opens today. Be prepared to encounter the grim tale of Britain’s first female serial killer: Mary Ann Cotton.
A north easterner with a propensity for lacing tea with a drop of arsenic, the Black Widow was convicted of only one murder but is believed to have killed many others, including 11 of her 13 children, and three of her four husbands. Box office: thedungeons.com/york/tickets-passes/. Pre-booking is essential.
Jude Kelly: Striving for a gender-equal world in The WOW Show
The WOW factor: The WOW Show with Jude Kelly, York Theatre Royal, tomorrow, 7.30pm
WOMEN of the World founder, chief executive officer and theatre director Jude Kelly CBE was director of West Yorkshire Playhouse, Leeds, from 1990 to 2002 and London’s Southbank Centre from 2006 to 2018 and set up the WOW Foundation charity in 2010 to achieve a gender-equal world.
In an evening of optimism, determination and laughter, she explores “our often exasperating and confusing journey towards gender equity, covering everything from money, sex, race, food, and ageing”. Expect personal anecdotes, guests and big ideas. “The message is: If you are a woman or you know a woman, please show up!” says Jude. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
Sam Lupton: Playing Del Boy in Only Fools And Horses The Musical at the Grand Opera House, York
“Plonker” musical of the week: Only Fools And Horses The Musical, Grand Opera House, York, October 14 to 19, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm Wednesday and Saturday matinees
BASED on John Sullivan’s long-running BBC One series, his son Jim Sullivan and comedy treasure Paul Whitehouse’s West End hit, Only Fools And Horses The Musical, combines 20 songs with an ingenious script.
“Join us as we take a trip back in time to 1989, where it’s all kicking off in Peckham,” reads the 2024-25 tour invitation. “While the yuppie invasion of London is in full swing, love is in the air as Del Boy sets out on the rocky road to find his soul mate, Rodney and Cassandra prepare to say ‘I do’, and even Trigger is gearing up for a date (with a person!). Meanwhile, Boycie and Marlene give parenthood one final shot and Grandad takes stock of his life and decides the time has finally arrived to get his piles sorted.” Box office: atgtickets.com/york.
Gray O’Brien in the role of Inspector John Rebus in Rebus: A Game Called Malice at York Theatre Royal. Picture: Nobby Clark
Thriller of the week: Rebus: A Game Called Malice, York Theatre Royal, October 15 to 19, 7.30pm; 2pm, Wednesday, Thursday; 2.30pm, Saturday
SCOTTISH crime writer Ian Rankin’s much-loved detective, John Rebus, takes to the stage in a new storyco-written with Simon Reade. Gray O’Brien, from Coronation Street, Casualty and Peak Practice, plays Rebus in a cast also featuring Abigail Thaw and Billy Hartman.
When a splendid Edinburgh mansion dinner party concludes with a murder mystery game, suddenly a murder needs to be solved. However, guests have secrets of their own. Among them is Inspector John Rebus, but is he Is playing an alternative game, one to which only he knows the rules? Rankin will attend the October 18 post-show discussion with the cast. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
Chris Mooney and Helen Spencer: Playing lovers with opposite takes on their relationship in The Last Five Years at the NCEM, York. Picture: Simon Trow
Debut of the week: Wharfemede Productions & Black Sheep Theatre Productions in The Last Five Years, National Centre for Early Music, St Margaret’s Church, Walmgate, York, October 17 to 19, 7.45pm
HELEN Spencer and Nick Sephton launch their new York company, Wharfemede Productions, in tandem with Black Sheep Theatre Productions, by staging The Last Five Years, Jason Robert Brown’s musical story of two New Yorkers, rising novelist Jamie Wellerstein and struggling actress Cathy Hiatt, who fall in and out of love over the course of five years.
Combining only two cast members, York Theatre scene luminaries Chris Mooney and Spencer, with a small band, expect an intimate and emotive evening of frank storytelling and gorgeous music. Box office: ticketsource.co.uk/wharfemede-productions-ltd.
Alexander Flanagan-Wright in Helios, a modern take on an Ancient Greek myth, performed under the Great Hall dome at Castle Howard
Theatrical event of the week: Wright & Grainger in Helios, The Great Hall, Castle Howard, near York, October 17, 5pm and 7.30pm
A LAD lives halfway up an historic hill. A teenager is on a road trip to the city in a stolen car. A boy is driving a chariot, pulling the sun across the sky. In a play about the son of the god of the sun, Helios transplants the Ancient Greek tale into a modern-day myth wound round the winding roads of rural England and into the everyday living of a towering city.
“It’s a story about life, the invisible monuments we build to it, and the little things that leave big marks,” says writer-performer Alexander Flanagan-Wright, who presents his delicate tale with a tape-player beneath the Great Hall dome’s mural, painted by 18th century Venetian painter Antonio Pelligrini, whose depiction of the Fall of Phaeton was the thematic inspiration behind Helios. Box office: castlehoward.co.uk.
Squeeze: 50th anniversary celebrations at York Barbican
Recommended but sold out already: Squeeze, York Barbican, October 18, doors 7pm
DEPTFORD’S answer to The Beatles mark their 50th anniversary as Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook manage to Squeeze in hit after hit, like pulling musses from a shell. Don’t miss the support act, one Badly Drawn Boy.
Strictly between us: Husband-and-wife dancers Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara look forward to A Night To Remember at York Barbican next June
Show announcement of the week: Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara: A Night To Remember, York Barbican, June 1 2025
STRICTLY Come Dancing favourites Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara – married since 2017 – will be touring next year with A Night To Remember, featuring an ensemble of “some of the UK’s very best dancers and singers”.
Aljaž, partnering Tasha Ghouri in the 2024 series, and It takes Two presenter Janette will “perform stunning routines to an eclectic array of music”, spanning the Great American songbook through to modern-day classics, backed by their own big band, fronted by boogie- woogie star Tom Seal. Box office: yorkbarbican.co.uk/whats-on/aljaz-and-janette-a-night-to-remember.
In Focus: Black Treacle Theatre in Accidental Death Of An Anarchist, Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, Oct 15 to 19
Superintendent Curry (Chris Pomfrett) and DI Daisy (Adam Sowter) are pushed to the edge by The Maniac (Andrew Isherwood), when they are surprised in Accidental Death Of An Anarchist. Picture: John Saunders
BENT police and politics come under fire in York company Black Treacle Theatre’s provocative production of Dario Fo’s uproarious farce Accidental Death Of An Anarchist next week.
In a new adaptation by Tom Basden, creator of Plebs and Here We Go, the setting is updated to the rotten state of present-day Britain.
The satirical play is set in a police station where a suspect has “accidentally” fallen to his death, but did he jump or was he pushed? As the police attempt to avoid yet another scandal, a mysterious imposter (the Maniac) is arrested and brought in for questioning.
Seizing the chance to put on a show, he leads the officers in an ever-more ridiculous reconstruction of their official account, exposing their cover-ups, corruption and (in)competence.
The original 1970 Italian farce by Nobel Prize winner Dario Fo and Franca Rame was based on the real-life case of an anarchist suspected of a bombing, who plunged to his death from a Milan police station in suspicious circumstances and was later exonerated. Now comes the British re-boot.
The Maniac (Andrew Isherwood) peruses the Anarchist’s case file as Inspector Burton (Paul Osborne) interrupts him
Director Jim Paterson says: “I’m really excited to bring this new adaptation of one of my favourite plays to York. Dario Fo was a master of using comedy to talk about the social and political issues of the day – particularly state corruption and hypocrisy.
“What Tom Basden’s version does brilliantly is bring the plot bang up to date in both setting and references, taking in police scandals and political issues of recent years – as well as packing it full of hilariousjokes! It’s fast, furious and funny, and I can’t wait for opening night.”
Lead actor Andrew Isherwood says: “Playing the Maniac, I get the opportunity to play multiple roles, with a variety of voices, which is always fun for me as I really enjoy getting the chance to play around, have some fun and indulge a little bit, which I don’t normally get to express in the same show.
“I think audiences will get a real kick out of the bizarre nature of this show, with all its twists and turns and bitingly satirical elements woven in, all performed by a brilliantly talented cast!”
PC Joseph (Guy Wilson) attempts to keep a record of the increasingly complex story being spun in Accidental Death Of An Anarchist. Picture: John Saunders
Black Treacle Theatre in Accidental Death Of An Anarchist,Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, October 15 to 19, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm Saturday matinee.Box office: https://tickets.41monkgate.co.uk. Running time: Two hours 15 minutes, including interval.
In the cast will be: The Maniac – Andrew Isherwood; Inspector Burton – Paul Osborne; DI Daisy – Adam Sowter; PC Joseph – Guy Wilson; Superintendent – Chris Pomfrett; Fi Phelan/PC Jackson – Jess Murray.
Production team: Director, Jim Paterson; lighting designer, Adam Kirkwood; set designer, Richard Hampton; costume/props, Maggie Smales.
Did you know?
Black Treacle Theatre’s past productions were: Constellations (March 2022), Iphigenia In Splott (March 2023) and White Rabbit, Red Rabbit (November 2023), all at Theatre@41, Monkgate, York.
Last Chance To See: Jack Ashton starring in Little Women at York Theatre Royal, today at 2.30pm and 7.30pm
Jack Ashton as Professor Bhaer in Little Women at York Theatre Royal. Picture: Charlotte Graham
STARRING in a much-loved television series can be a boon or a bother for an actor who becomes identified with a particular character. Directors may be reluctant to offer different sorts of role.
Happily, Jack Ashton, best known as the Reverend Tom Hereward in BBC One’s Sunday night staple Call The Midwife, has escaped being typecast. So much so that in York Theatre Royal’s production of Louisa May Alcott’s coming-of-age classic Little Women, he is playing not one but two very contrasting characters.
The link is that both are suitors of the titular Little Women – John Brooke and Professor Bhaer, the love interests for Meg and Jo March. Not that Jack downplays the problems of leaving Call The Midwife after five years as the vicar of Poplar in the series set in an East End Anglican convent in the late 1950s and 1960s.
“It was difficult, more difficult than I thought,” he admits. “It was hard for a few years for my agent to get me seen for something. If you’re known as a particular character, it can be hard to do something that’s opposite to that and challenge yourself, which is what you want to be as an actor.”
In the past Jack has said that Call The Midwife changed his life, a reference to becoming a father – of Wren, six, and Lark, two – through his relationship with co-star Helen George. “It was a lovely time in my life,” he says. So much so that the last time he acted in York, in Strangers On the Train at the Grand Opera House in March 2018, newly-born Wren came on tour with them.
Jack Ashton’s John Brooke and Ainy Medina’s Meg March in Little Women, adapted by Anne-Marie Casey, at York Theatre Royal. Picture: Charlotte Graham
Juliet Forster’s production of Little Women at York Theatre Royal, where he has performed since his early days as an actor, certainly offers the chance to do something different: two different characters in one show.
One of them, Professor Bhaer, requires a German accent, necessitating Jack to work with a voice coach.
He has not read Little Women, although he has seen Great Gerwig’s 2019 film version, and coincidentally has just finished working with Saoirse Ronan, who played burgeoning writer Jo March in the American movie.
While he has not worked previously with any of the Little Women cast members, he has done so with director Juliet Forster, York Theatre Royal’s creative director.
She directed him in productions that have punctuate his life, going from a young man fresh out of drama school in 2006 to present-day leading man, appearing in Twelfth Night and the Studio double bill of Escaping Alice and End Of Desire, as well as The Guinea Pig Club and The Homecoming under former artistic director Damain Cruden’s direction.
Jack Ashton rehearsing the role of Professor Bhaer in Little Women. Picture: S R Taylor Photography
York remains one of his favourite places. “It’s such a great city. I love coming back, it’s a no-brainer when that kind of offer, like Little Women, comes along,” says Jack.
“I have really good friends in York and I’ve befriended Rita and Paul, the original people on the digs list. I got so lucky because I stayed with them the first time and have continued to stay with them every time since.”
He is realistic about the pitfalls of being an actor. “Sometimes people think an actor’s life is quite glamorous. We just audition and audition, and sometimes people say ‘yes, we want you’. Most of the time they say, ‘no thank you very much’.”
He has several projects waiting to be seen, including Jonatan Etzler’s satirical comedy Bad Apples – the one with Saoirse Ronan – and a small role in Lockerbie, a Sky drama series about one man’s battle to learn the truth about the Pan Am Flight 103 bomb explosion over the Scottish town on December 21 1988. He continues to play Harry Chilcott in BBC Radio 4’s long-running series The Archers too.
Returning to the topic of Little Women, does he have any sisters? “Two older sisters,” he replies. “I can definitely relate to not being able to get a word in edgeways.”
Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
“We just audition and audition, and sometimes people say ‘yes, we want you’. Most of the time they say, ‘no thank you very much’,” says actor Jack Ashton
Kaiser Chiefs: Feeling the benefit of 20 years of Employment at Temple Newsam, Leeds, next May
KAISER Chiefs will mark the 20th anniversary of debut album Employment with a home-city concert at Temple Newsam Park, Leeds, on May 31 2025.
Joining the Yorkshire indie band that day will be mid-Noughties peers Razorlight, The Cribs, The Coral and We Are Scientists, plus Hastings trio HotWax and West Yorkshire’s Ellur, “two of the most exciting new indie artists in the UK”. Tickets go on sale today at https://tix.to/KCTempleNewsam.
Released in March 2005, the seven-times platinum and multi-award winning Employment remains the biggest-selling record from a Leeds artist, propelling I Predict A Riot and Oh My God to becoming anthems for the city, forever intertwined with Leeds life, culture, football and more.
To honour that special connection, as well as the 20th anniversary, Kaiser Chiefs will take to one of Leeds’s biggest stages for a celebration of Employment and the city that inspired it.
Kaiser Chiefs, minus Ricky Wilson that day, launching their When All Is Quiet: Kaiser Chiefs in Conversation with York Art Gallery exhibition in December 2018
London quintet Razorlight will perform a special set to mark the 20th anniversary of their debut album, Up All Night; Wakefield band The Cribs celebrate the same anniversary for sophomore album The New Fellas; The Coral, from the Wirral, will dive into their back catalogue, and cult American indie rockers We Are Scientists will highlight the 20th anniversary of their major label debut, With Love And Squalor.
Kaiser Chiefs are “very excited to announce our biggest Leeds gig ever”. “Twenty years since Employment, and 23 years since we last played at Temple Newsam, we are delighted to be back,” say Ricky Wilson (vocals), Simon Rix (bass), Nick “Peanut” Baines (keyboards), Andrew “Whitey” White (guitar) and Vijay Mistry (drums).
“Last time we played there [in their days as Parva], we joked we were on after Guns N’ Roses, who had played the previous night, so it’s been a long wait to finally actually headline the Park.
“We are a band that historically always looked forwards, but after 20 years of people telling us how important Employment is to them and how it soundtracked people’s lives, we felt we had to organise a celebration.
“We’ve managed to get a few of our old touring friends to come and celebrate with us and of course everyone is invited. Come celebrate the 2000s, Employment, When Leeds took over the World. See you all in May.”
Shed Seven celebrate topping the Official UK Album Chart with Liquid Gold, their second number one of 2024. Picture copyright: Ofiicial Charts Company 2024
IF at first you succeed after 30 years, then succeed again only a matter of months later.
Like buses, no number one ever arrived for York band Shed Seven until not one but two album chart toppers came their way in one year, making the Britpop survivors only the 20th act to achieve that feat in the Official UK Album Chart.
In good company too, standing on the shoulders of such giants as Frank Sinatra (1957); Elvis Presley (1962); The Beatles (1963, 1964, 1965); Bob Dylan (1965, 1970); Led Zeppelin (1970, 1976) and Elton John (1973, 1974, 1990).
Who else? George Mitchell Minstrels (who?! * See answer below); The Monkees; Slade; Mike Oldfield; Abba; Queen; Diana Ross; Robbie Williams; Blue(yes, really); Rihanna; Taylor Swift (2020, 2021, 2023) and Ed Sheeran.
Shed Seven’s final promotional push to take Liquid Gold to the number one spot
Rather than chasing rainbows in 2024, it’s Getting Better and better for Shed Seven, the band with the alchemist’s touch in a year of Going For Gold.
The Sheds began their 30th anniversary celebrations by entering the charts at number one with sixth studio album A Matter Of Time on January 12, a record-breaking gap of 29 years and three months between their debut, September 5 1994’s Change Giver, and first chart topper.
Could Liquid Gold, their second release of the year on indie label Cooking Vinyl, follow suit? Sitting at number one in the UK Midweek Album Chart, the Sheds saw off the challenge of Bring Me The Horizon’s Post Human: Next Gen, pulling ahead by 2,500 sales by Thursday morning in what had shaped up to be a two-horse race heading into the final straight, before cantering away to a lead of almost 5,000 at Friday afternoon’s finishing post.
“We can’t quite believe we are writing these words, but we’ve only gone and done it again!!” posted the band on their shedsevenofficial site on Instagram. “Our second number one album this year!!!
Liquid Gold Covers Edition: One of multiple formats that secured the top spotfor Shed Seven
“Liquid Gold is the official UK Chart number one album beating new releases from major artists including Ed Sheeran and Lady Gaga! Firstly, thank you to everyone who has bought the record – you truly are the best fans.
“Also, a huge thanks to all the amazing people we worked with on the album, and for helping us create the most beautiful record. Thanks to Cooking Vinyl for believing in us.”
Later the band posted: “This is one of the most rare feats on the Official Chart: securing two Number 1 albums on the Official Albums Chart within a single calendar year. In all of recorded Official Charts history, this has only happened to 20 acts, and now Shed Seven joins the likes of The Beatles, David Bowie, and Elvis!”
As with A Matter Of Time, a combination of myriad versions of Liquid Gold, a resourceful, rallying social media campaign and on-going record store tour of intimate gigs and personal appearances ensured the industrious five-piece were first past the post.
Huts five, Shed Seven: Tim Wills, left, Rob ‘Maxi’ Maxfield, Rick Witter, Paul Banks and Tom Gladwin promoting next summer’s Scarborough show at the seaside
The promotional campaign also took in a Radio 2 In The Park live set in Preston, a BBC Radio 2 Piano Session, plus Radio 2 playlist exposure and Amazing Radio’s Track of the Week status for the single Waiting For The Catch, a duet with Issy Ferris, of Ferris & Sylvester.
Recorded at Vada Recording Studios, Stratford-upon-Avon, with producer Michael Rendall, the album features the orchestral reimagining of past hits, less discovered band favourites and one new song, All Roads Lead To You, embossed with strings, brass and gospel vocal arrangements.
Numerous formats have sold out already, now complemented by the Demos Edition CD, a set of demos that crystallises the raw energy that the Sheds exuded in their early days. All profits from Demos Edition CD will be donated to the Music Venue Trust, which supports grassroots music venues across the UK – multiple venues that have been “vital to every moment of Shed Seven’s long and storied career”.
Front man Rick Witter said: “It’s important for all new up-and-coming young acts to have the opportunity to play venues like these, as it’s a crucial part of any artist’s journey to get a foothold on the musical path. Long may these venues exist.”
Guitarist Paul Banks added: “Shed Seven has had an incredible 30 years, and this year has been nothing short of unforgettable. We’ve climbed every rung of the ladder in this industry, starting out in independent venues.
Shed Seven celebrate notching their second number one of 2024
“When we look back at the places we played in 1994, it’s heartbreaking to see how many have closed their doors. Independent bands need independent labels, record shops and venues, and we want to give something back.
“That’s why we’re thrilled to release a limited-edition Liquid Gold CD, with all profits going to the Music Venues Trust. It features demos that really capture the rawness of Shed Seven, that same energy we had when we played those venues early in our career. Without independent venues, there would be no Shed Seven.”
The Sheds’ run of in-store appearances and Change Giver concerts since Liquid Gold’s release may have been brought to a temporary halt by Rick Witter’s sinus infection – has the City of York Council’s plan to launch a Rick Gritter road gritter this winter arrived early in his throat?! – but plans are taking shape already for 2025.
Tickets go on sale at 9.30am this morning for their “biggest ever headline show in their home county”, a long-overdue debut at the 8,000-capacity TK Maxx Presents Scarborough Open Air Theatre, the UK’s largest purpose-built outdoor concert arena, on June 14, when Jake Bugg and Cast will be their special guests. To book, head to: scarboroughopenairtheatre.co.uk or ticketmaster.co.uk.
Witter said (before the sinus infection struck): “It’s been a dream of ours for some time to head out to the coast to play Scarborough OAT. It’s a stunning and historic venue…Yorkshire’s very own Hollywood Bowl!
Shed Seven’s poster for next summer’s trio of outdoor headline concerts
“2024 has been an amazing year for us. We’ve had our first number one album, sold out shows across the land, and now to announce our biggest ever headline show in Yorkshire – it doesn’t get much better!
“We can’t thank our fans enough and we want them to join us in Scarborough next summer for what will be a magical night at this incredibly special venue.”
In addition, Shed Seven have announced two further live dates for next summer, either side of the Pennine divide for Sounds Of The City 2025: Castlefield Bowl, Manchester, on July 4 and a return to Leeds Millennium Square on July 11, having headlined the Sound Of The City bill there on July 15 2023, when Cast and fellow York band Skylights supported.
Ian Broudie’s Lightning Seeds, from Liverpool, and the Sheds’ upcoming winter tour opening act, The Sherlocks, from Sheffield, will be on support duty on both nights. Again, tickets go on sale today at www.gigsandtours.com and ticketmaster.co.uk or via https://tix.to/SS25.
The promotional poster for Paul Heaton’s Bramall Lane concert next May, featuring Shed Seven on the support bill
“We can’t wait to get out next summer for these big shows,” said Rick “It’s going to be a huge celebration following the success we’ve had in 2024. Expect big hits and huge singalongs. See you down the front.”
And now there’s more! Shed Seven are to support Sheffield United fan Paul Heaton at his beloved Bramall Lane, Sheffield, on May 25, when Lightning Seeds will be on the bill too.
Singer, songwriter and former front man of Hull bands The Housemartins and The Beautiful South, Heaton grew up in the Steel City. He will perform with his live and special guest singer Rianne Downey.
Today he releases his new solo album, The Mighty Several, produced by Lightning Seeds’ Ian Broudie, on Blood Records. His autumn tour will open with Yorkshire shows at Bridlington Spa on November 29 and Leeds First Direct the next night.
Did you know? Shed Seven are champions of National Album Day
Shed Seven: Championing the album as an artform
SHED Seven have been announced as the first champions of National Album Day ahead of its return on Saturday, October 19.
The official statement reads: “National Album Day announces iconic alternative rock band Shed Seven as the first album champions to celebrate this year’s theme of Great British Groups.
“Hailing from York, Shed Seven released their debut album Change Giver in 1994, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. To honour the anniversary, Shed Seven have partnered with National Album Day to present a special tour celebrating 30 years of the record and to promote the art of the album format.
“Paul Banks, member of Shed Seven, says: ‘For Shed Seven, albums are a powerful medium – a journey that tells a story, like a book or film. This belief shapes our music, including our new LP, Liquid Gold.
‘To us, an album is more than a collection of songs; it’s a cohesive experience with a theme, mood, and intentional moments of tension and release. Every detail, even the silences, is deliberate and meaningful.
‘Making an album involves more than music; it’s a full artistic endeavour. We’re deeply involved in every element, from the songs to the cover art, which extends the album’s narrative. The album as a format deserves to be protected and cherished because it blends multiple artistic disciplines into one experience.
‘That’s why we support National Album Day on October 19th, which celebrates Great British Groups and highlights the importance of albums. As long as we make music, we’ll craft albums that tell stories and provide a full experience, like our latest, Liquid Gold. We hope you’ll join us on this journey.’
“Released earlier this year, Shed Seven’s album A Matter of Time marked two huge milestones for the band; becoming their first No.1 album, and making them the first ever band from York to have a #1 record on the Official Albums Chart.
On fire: Shed Seven top the charts for the first time with A Matter Of Time in January
“The album also out-sold the rest of the Top #10 physically combined (competing with heavy-hitters Lewis Capaldi, Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, and The Weeknd) in week one!”
Since its launch in 2018, National Album Day has been supported by a broad range of artists, such as Kylie Minogue, Joy Crookes, Sharleen Spiteri, Lewis Capaldi, Mark Ronson, La Roux, Elbow, Paloma Faith, Blossoms, Alice Cooper, Novelist, Tom Odell, Mahalia, Toyah Willcox and Jazzie B.
Last year Gabrielle, Declan McKenna, Tricky, Nuno Bettencourt, Shola Ama and The Corrs added their voices as passionate advocates of the album.
National Album Day is organised jointly by the BPI – the UK association of record companies and independent labels (BRIT Awards and Mercury Prize) – and ERA, the digital entertainment and retail association (Record Store Day).
The event is supported by BBC Radio 2 and the breadth of BBC Sounds, radio, TV and online channels, and is backed by the wider recorded music community, taking in UK record labels, AIM, PPL and other trade associations, independent record stores and specialist chains, including HMV, and online retailers and digital/streaming services including Amazon, Spotify and YouTube.
The cover artwork for Change Giver, Shed Seven’s 1994 debut album on Polydor Records
THE Change Giver shows were scheduled to start with sold-out performances at Pryzm, Kingston, yesterday and today, hosted by Banquet Records, but Rick Witter’s sinus infection forced their postponement.
The Instagram statement from guitarist Paul Banks reads: “We’re absolutely heartbroken to let you know that we have to postpone this week’s shows at Kingston Pryzm due to Rick suffering from a sinus infection.
“He’s been gradually getting worse over the last few days, but he’s carried on and honoured the interviews he had as he didn’t want to let anybody down. However, it’s gotten so bad today [October 10] that, on doctor’s orders, we have no choice but to postpone the shows.
“Ticket holders, please check your email for more information. We’ll be in touch again a soon as the rescheduled dates are confirmed. Apologies for the very obvious disappointment.”
Further sold-out performances, playing the album in full, are scheduled for HMV Empire, Coventry, tomorrow (12/10/2024); SWG3, Glasgow, hosted by Assai Records, on October 17; Academy 2, Manchester, hosted by Crash Records, October 18, and Leeds Beckett Student Union, hosted by Crash Records, on October 19. An update on Rick’s vocal health will be forthcoming.
Likewise, sold-out in-store appearances are booked for Assai Records, Edinburgh, at midday on October 16 and Glasgow HMV at 5pm the same day.
Meanwhile, Change Giver is being released on heavyweight vinyl for the first time since 1994 in a re-issue that faithfully replicates the original Polydor UK pressing.
Shed Seven’s Paul Banks and Rick Witter performing on the first of two sold-out nights at York Musem Gardens in July, promoted by the Futuresound Group. Picture: David Harrison
NOVEMBER 30th ANNIVERSARY HEADLINE TOUR
14th – Sheffield, Octagon (SOLD OUT)
15th – Cardiff, University – Great Hall (LOW TICKETS)
16th – Liverpool, University – Mountford Hall (SOLD OUT)
18th – Halifax, Victoria Theatre (LOW TICKETS)
19th – Hull, City Hall (LOW TICKETS)
21st – Aberdeen, Music Hall (SOLD OUT)
22nd – Glasgow, O2 Academy (SOLD OUT)
23rd – Edinburgh, O2 Academy (SOLD OUT)
25th – Leicester, O2 Academy (LOW TICKETS)
26th – Margate, Dreamland
28th – Bristol, O2 Academy (SOLD OUT)
29th – Newcastle, O2 City Hall (SOLD OUT)
30th – Leeds, O2 Academy (SOLD OUT)
Stairway to Shed Seven: Rick Witter, left, Tom Gladwin, Tim Wills, Paul Banks and Rob ‘Maxi’ Maxfield step up in 2024. Picture: Barnaby Fairley
DECEMBER – 30th ANNIVERSARY HEADLINE TOUR
2nd – Oxford, O2 Academy (SOLD OUT)
3rd – Lincoln, Engine Shed (LOW TICKETS)
5th – Stockton, Globe
6th – Manchester, O2 Victoria Warehouse (SOLD OUT)
7th – Birmingham, O2 Academy (SOLD OUT)
9th – Norwich, The Nick Rayns LCR, University of East Anglia (SOLD OUT)
10th – Cambridge, Corn Exchange (SOLD OUT)
12th – Bournemouth, O2 Academy (LOW TICKETS)
13th – Nottingham, Rock City (SOLD OUT)
14th – London, O2 Academy Brixton (SOLD OUT)
Very limited tickets for select shows are available via shedseven.com.
DECEMBER – RICK WITTER & PAUL BANKS INTIMATE ACOUSTIC SHOWS
21st – York, Huntington Working Men’s Club (SOLD OUT)
22nd – York, Huntington Working Men’s Club (SOLD OUT)
*Who were the George Mitchell Minstrels?
THEY were formed by Scottish singer George Mitchell OBE, who devised the long-running Black And White Minstrel Show.
The tour poster for Only Fools And Horses The Musical
STICK a pony in your pocket! The Trotters are back, heading to York in Del Boy and Rodney’s yellow Reliant Regal Supervan III three-wheeler to perform Only Fools And Horses The Musical next week.
Running at the Grand Opera House from October 14 to 19, Jim Sullivan and comedy turn Paul Whitehouse’s hit show is on a 2024-2025 national tour after a record-breaking four-year sold-out run in London’s West End.
Based on John Sullivan’s BBC One comedy, this home-grown musical spectacular features cherished material and characters from the long-running series.
Sam Lupton: Playing Del Boy in Only Fools And Horses The Musical
Del Boy, Rodney, Grandad, Cassandra, Raquel, Boycie, Marlene, Trigger, Denzil and Mickey Pearce all feature in a musical with a score of 20 humorous songs and an “ingenious” script by John’s son, Jim Sullivan, and The Fast Show’s Paul Whitehouse
“Join us as we take a trip back in time, where it’s all kicking off in Peckham,” reads the tour publicity invitation. “While the yuppie invasion of London is in full swing, love is in the air as Del Boy sets out on the rocky road to find his soul mate, Rodney and Cassandra prepare to say ‘I do’, and even Trigger is gearing up for a date (with a person!).
“Meanwhile, Boycie and Marlene give parenthood one final shot and Grandad takes stock of his life and decides the time has finally arrived to get his piles sorted.”
Tom Major: Taking the role of Rodney in Only Fools And Horses The Musical
The show features musical contributions from rockney duo Chas & Dave, the beloved theme tune “as you have never heard it before”, and an array of new songs full of character and Cockney charm.
The touring cast includes Sam Lupton as Del Boy; Tom Major, Rodney, Philip Childs, Grandad; Georgina Hagen, Raquel; Nicola Munns, Marlene/Cassandra; Craig Berry, Boycie; Bradley John, Denzil; Lee Vg, Trigger; Peter Watts, Danny Driscoll/Mickey Pearce; Darryl Paul, Mike/Tony Driscoll; Richard J Hunt, dating agent, and Gloria Acquaah-Harrison, Mrs Obooko. Andrew Bryant is the resident director and dance captain.
Georgina Hagen: Cast as Raquel in Only Fools And Horses The Musical
“You’re guaranteed to have a right ol’ knees-up,” the tour blurb promises. “Only Fools And Horses The Musical is a feel-good family celebration of traditional working-class London life in 1989 and the aspirations we all share.
“So don’t delay, get on the blower, and get a ticket for a truly cushty night out. Only a 42 carat plonker would miss it!”
Only Fools And Horses The Musical, Grand Opera House, York, October 14 to 19, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm Wednesday and Saturday matinees. Box office: atgtickets.com/york. Age guidance: Six upwards.
Nicola Munns at the double: Playing both Marlene and Cassandra in Only Fools And Horses The Musical
On a highway to hell: Freida Nipples’ nun in The Exhibitionists
THE Old Paint Shop season of burlesque, comedy, improv, jazz, folk and more in York’s newest cabaret nightspot is under way in the York Theatre Royal Studio.
So named in a nod to the Studio’s former status as the theatre workshop, the new venture is the brainchild of chief executive Paul Crewes, who took pleasure in a bustling Saturday night, where the American coming-of-age tale Little Women was playing in the main house as not-so-little women and men formed the first Freida Nipples presents…The Exhibitionists bill next door.
A buoyant full house, gathered around tables beneath a sky of lampshades, two mirror balls and The Old Paint Shop neon sign, greeted York queen of burlesque Freida’s parade of fabulous artistes from around the UK.
First, here’s your saucy host in high heels and rhinestones, Leicester’s Deeva D, international Neo Burlesque/Bearlesque performer, go-go dancer, compere and co-founder of Boudoir. Queer, South Asian and Hindu to boot. Hair aglow, like an angel in an Italian Renaissance painting. Impromptu singer too, as he filled a temporary black hole with a karaoke-style singalong Spirit In The Sky.
The black-box Studio makes for a compact cabaret locale. Performers are within touching distance, but this is a “Look, but don’t touch” joint, rightly so. And no flash. Flesh, yes, of course, but flash, no, if you must insist on taking out your distracting phone camera.
The Exhibitionists gather on stage at the close of the first night of The Old Paint Shop: left to right, compere Deeva D, promoter, producer and performer Freida Nipples, stage manager Trixie Blue, Ebony Silk, Kiki Lovechild and Lady Wildflower
Acts enter either by swishing through the cabaret crowd, like a boxer’s ring walk, or through a black door, halfway up the back wall, and down a metallic stairwell, take your pick.
Here come The Exhibitionists, one by one, one act each per half: Ebony Silk, full of circular motions at every turn; northern burlesque icon and Hebden Bridge festival founder Lady Wildflower; then clown-faced and skilled “professional idiot” Kiki Lovechild (aka Jack Smart), with audience participation to the max in Bonnie Tyler’s Total Eclipse Of The Heart.
Totally eclipsing everything else? Not so. Freida Nipples emerges in a sparkling nun’s habit to the rallying call of AC/DC’s Highway To Hell. Line by line, garment removal by garment removal, she will reveal the devil inside. 6, 6, 6 placed you know where, and a tail, likewise, at the back. Nun better to conclude the first half.
Post-interval, Deeva D re-emerges as the first sighting of Santa Claus in 2024; his fancy-dress frippery will never last until Christmas, and sure enough the red threads don’t survive even five minutes here.
Ebony Silk throws more shapes; Freida pops balloons at bathtime; Kiki turns into a puppeteer with strangely hot chanteuse Jessica Blue, all topped off by Lady Wildflower doing her wild thing, spinning her titillating tassles to eye-popping effect in a catherine wheel blur.
The Exhibitionists’ roster of performance artistes – named in honour of York Theatre Royal’s proximity to Exhibition Square – will return for a Hallowe’en Special on October 26 when Freida Nipples presents more burlesque, drag and cabaret acts with the promise of the three Gs: glamour, gags and giggles. Both the 6pm and 9pm performances have sold out already, the bare cheek of it.
What’s coming up at The Old Paint Shop?
Not Gonna Lie: Fool(ish) Improv’s night of “Unbelievable Comedy”in The Old Paint Shop
October 10, Fool(ish) Improv present Not Gonna Lie
THE message from Paul Birch and co’s York comedy troupe Fool(ish) Improv is: “Come confess and unburden yourselves of some silly secrets, tales of the office and childhood memories and we will shape them into surreal sketches and sensational scenes.”
Not so much Who’s Line Is It Anyway as Who’s Lie Is It anyway, these North Yorkshire improvisers, trained by Chicago’s best, promise a playful night of joy, nonsense and completely making things up.
Saxophonist Brendan Duffy
October 11, The Brendan Duffy Quartet
SAXOPHONIST and vocalist Brendan Duffy is joined by Tom Townsend on drums, Christian Topman on double bass and Karl Mullen, “the hardest-working pianist in York”, on upright piano for an eclectic and exciting cabaret night of jazz through the ages. Everything from Louis Armstrong and singalong fun to John Coltrane and Charles Mingus.
October 12, Jess Gardham, cancelled.
AWARD-WINNING York blues singer-songwriter and musical theatre actress Jess Gardham’s show has been scuppered by ill health.
Debs Newbold in Dauntless – Grace O’Malley, Pirate Queen
October 17, Dauntless – Grace O’Malley, Pirate Queen
IN a night of performance storytelling by Debs Newbold, presented by the Crick Crack Club, she gleefully delivers the boisterous, remarkable and inspirational story of her heroine: Grainne ni Mhaille (Grace O’Malley), legendary Irish clan chief and queen of the sea.
Stowing away aboard her father’s ship aged eight, Grace became a 16th century force of nature: a multilingual, seafaring weapons expert, leader of 2,000 men, rebel, politician, kingmaker and slayer, prodigious lover, avenging hero and notorious pirate.
From the west of Ireland to the court of Elizabeth I, from wild youth to even wilder old age, Dauntless is an epic celebration of uproarious storytelling, high drama and one fascinating 16th century feminist.
Bay Bryan in The Meadow. Picture: Brendan Ashmore
October 19, Bay Bryan: The Meadow
AS heard on BBC 2’s The Folk Show with Mark Radcliffe, Bay Bryan’s music is accessible yet complex with a philosophical edge akin to 1970s’ Labi Siffre. Existential in nature, The Meadow is heavily influenced by Bryan’s upbringing in the Rockies of Colorado. In performance, Bryan draws on skills as an actor and storyteller.
The Not So Ugly Sisters, a theatre show for which Bryan co-composed songs, was named in the Guardian as one of the Top 25 shows to book for Christmas 2021. The short film Egg Party, with music scored by Bryan, won the Audience Choice awards at both the Coven and Cinequest Film Festivals that year. Acting credits include The Gifting (Leeds, 2023) and Napoleon (Apple TV).
Hyde Family Jam, fronted by Will Dreyfus, at The Old Paint Shop
October 24, Hyde Family Jam
SINCE 2014, this York band has appeared in many forms, to delight and entertain on the streets, in clubs, castles, tipis, tapas bars, stately homes and even on film sets. This October they finally set foot in York Theatre Royal, where Will Dreyfus will be on front man duty. Prepare for a fusion of irreverent covers, folk instruments and punk energy in a set of pop bangers that adds up to a “one-of-a-kind musical journey”.
Pete Selwood. Stand-up’s debut show. Picture: Andy Hollingworth
October 25, Pete Selwood: Uninspiring
UNINSPIRING is the debut show from stand-up comedian Pete Selwood (as seen on Comedy Central Live and The Emily Atack Show), spotlighting the pitfalls of being a disabled man coming to terms with his limitations after becoming a parent. Last seen at York Theatre Royal supporting Guz Khan, he is a regular tour support for Jack Carroll.
October 26, Freida Nipples presents…The Exhibitionists, Hallowe’en Special, 6pm and 9pm, both sold out.
All shows start at 8pm except Freida Nipples’ Hallowe’en Special. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
York Theatre Royal chief executive Paul Crewes on setting up The Old Paint Shop
York Theatre Royal chief executive Paul Crewes. Picture: Charlie Kirkpatrick
“THE idea is to turn the Studio into a cabaret space, The Old Paint Shop, twice a year for three or four-week sessions of one-night shows with a range of acts from York and from further afield, hosted by the Theatre Royal, presenting music, theatre, burlesque and stand-up comedy.
“I did something similar in Los Angeles and it became so popular that people were contacting me to perform in it.”
Did you know?
THE inaugural Old Paint Shop season is dedicated to Terry Bounds, who worked as stage carpenter at York Theatre Royal for more than 30 years before retiring in 2013.
Ed Gamble: No mention of hot dogs at the Grand Opera House, York, despite the show title and tour publicity photo. Picture: Matt Crockett
IT would not be a Gamble to the see the comedian of that surname, Peter Hook’s Joy Division and New Order excavations, a Miss Marple mystery or a new Rebus play, advises Charles Hutchinson.
Comedy gig of the week: Ed Gamble, Hot Diggity Dog, Grand Opera House, York, tonight, 7.30pm
ED Gamble is promising “all your classicGamble ranting, raving and spluttering, but he’s doing fine mentally. Promise”. After all, he co-hosts the award-winning podcast Off Menuwith James Acaster, is a judge on Great British Menu and Taskmaster champion, hosts Taskmaster The Podcast and The Traitors: Uncloaked and has his own special, Blood Sugar, available on Amazon Prime. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.
Not Gonna Lie: Fool(ish) Improv conjure comedy from audience stories at The Old Paint Shop, York Theatre Royal
Improv gig of the week: Fool(ish) Improv present Not Gonna Lie, The Old Paint Shop, York Theatre Royal Studio, tomorrow, 8pm
THIS show by Paul Birch and co will take the truth to task by using real stories from the audience to improvise “unbelievable comedy”. Not so much Who’s Line Is It Anyway but more Who’s Lie Is It Anyway, Fool(ish) welcome you to a playful night of joy, nonsense and completely making things up.
“Come confess and unburden yourselves of some silly secrets, tales of the office and childhood memories and we will shape them into surreal sketches and sensational scenes,” say the Yorkshire improvisers trained by the best in Chicago Long-Form improv. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
Peter Hook: Revisiting Joy Division and New Order with The Light at York Barbican. Picture: Mark McNulty
York rock gig of the week: Peter Hook & The Light, Substance World Tour, York Barbican, tomorrow, doors 7pm; start 8pm; curfew 11pm
PETER Hook & The Light compare and contrast his bands Joy Division and New Order’s Substance compilation albums, playing both Manchester groups’ vinyl versions in full, complemented by 12 tracks featured on CD editions.
Hook will be joined by David Potts, his regular companion from Monaco and Revenge, on guitar and vocals, new addition Martin Rebelski, from Doves, on keyboards, Paul Kehoe on drums, and Paul Duffy, from The Coral, deputising for Hooky’s son, Jack Bates, on bass. Box office: yorkbarbican.co.uk.
Martin Stephenson: Back with The Daintees in Malton
Ryedale gig of the week: Martin Stephenson & The Daintees, Milton Rooms, Malton, October 13, 8pm
MARTIN Stephenson’s focus will be on You Belong To Blue, the February 2023 album that saw original Daintees’ members Gary Dunn, Anthony Dunn and Charlie Smith, plus a selection of special guests, joining up with the Durham-born singer-songwriter once again.
His Malton set will feature Daintees and Stephenson solo favourites stretching back to his 1986 debut Boat To Bolivia as he dips into country, folk, jazz, blues, skiffle and reggae. Box office: 01653 696240 or themiltonrooms.com.
Billy Mitchell and Bob Fox: In tandem at the Milton Rooms
Duo of the week: Billy Mitchell and Bob Fox, Milton Rooms, Malton, October 15, 7.30pm
THIS is a rare opportunity to see North Eastern masters of vocal harmony and musicians Billy Mitchell and Bob Fox perform once again as a duo after several years of individual work. Actor, singer and songwriter Mitchell founded Jack The Lad in the 1970s and was Lindisfarne’s the front man for eight years until their retirement in 2003.
He has undertaken two tours of The Lindisfarne Story and performs in The Pitmen Poets with Fox, Jez Lowe and Benny Graham, presenting songs and stories of Durham and Northumberland’s coal mining communities. Fox interprets traditional and modern songs, played the Songman in the National Theatre’s Warhorse and first toured with Mitchell in 2006, leading to their studio album of Tyne and Wear songs Back On City Road. Box office: 01653 696240 or themiltonrooms.com.
Gray O’Brien as Inspector John Rebus in Rebus: A Game Called Malice, on tour at York Theatre Royal. Picture: Nobby Clark
York play of the week: Rebus: A Game Called Malice, York Theatre Royal, October 15 to 19, 7.30pm; 2pm, Wednesday, Thursday; 2.30pm, Saturday
SCOTTISH crime writer Ian Rankin’s much-loved detective, John Rebus, takes to the stage in a new storyco-written with Simon Reade. Gray O’Brien, from Coronation Street, Casualty and Peak Practice, plays Rebus in a cast also featuring Abigail Thaw and Billy Hartman.
When a splendid Edinburgh mansion dinner party concludes with a murder mystery game created by the hostess, suddenly a murder needs to be solved. However, guests have secrets of their own. Among them is Inspector John Rebus, but is he Is playing an alternative game, one to which only he knows the rules? Rankin will attend the October 18 post-show discussion with the cast. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
1812 Theatre Company’s poster for The Mirror Crack’d, a Miss Marple mystery, at Helmsley Arts Centre
Ryedale play of the week: 1812 Theatre Company in Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d, Helmsley Arts Centre, October 16 to 19, 7.30pm
1812 Theatre Company presents Rachel Wagstaff’s adaptation of Agatha Christie’s 1962 thriller, wherein Hollywood star Marina Gregg has moved into Gossington Hall and has been persuaded to host the village fête.
When the harmless Heather Badcock, a St John’s Ambulance volunteer with not one enemy in the world, is poisoned by a drink meant for Marina, Chief Inspector Craddock quickly realises the wrong person has died. Fortunately, his aunt, Miss Marple, lives in the village, ever ready to unravel the truth behind the killing as seven suspects face investigation. Box office: 01439 771700 or helmsleyarts.co.uk.
Strictly between us: Husband and wife Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara announce A Night To Remember tour for 2025
Show announcement of the week: Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara: A Night To Remember, York Barbican, June 1 2025
STRICTLY Come Dancing favourites Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara – married since 2017 – will be touring next year with A Night To Remember, featuring an ensemble of “some of the UK’s very best dancers and singers”.
Aljaž, partnering Tasha Ghouri in the 2024 series, and It takes Two presenter Janette will “perform stunning routines to an eclectic array of music”, spanning the Great American songbook through to modern-day classics, backed by their own big band, fronted by boogie- woogie star Tom Seal. Tickets go on sale on Friday at 10am at yorkbarbican.co.uk/whats-on/aljaz-and-janette-a-night-to-remember.
In Focus: Pickering Musical Society in Wonders Of The West End, Kirk Theatre, Pickering, October 10 to 13
Paula Paylor, left, and Danille Long in Pickering Musical Society’s Wonders Of The West End. Picture: Robert David Photography
CURTAIN up tomorrow, Pickering Musical Society is in full swing, putting the final touches to its highly anticipated autumn concert Wonders Of The West End.
This year’s production promises to be a spectacular event, featuring not only the society’s talented performers but also more than 40 dancers from the Sarah Louise Ashworth School of Dance.
In a dazzling programme of classic and contemporary show tunes, selections include iconic hits from Gigi, Half A Sixpence, Oliver! and Waitress, to name but a few.
Colin Wragg in Wonders Of The West End. Picture: Robert David Photography
The cast and dancers have been working hard under the expert guidance of resident musical director Clive Wass, who will be conducting the orchestra each night.
“The combination of live music, powerful vocals, and stunning choreography promises an unforgettable night of theatre,” says director Luke Arnold. “The carefully curated programme offers something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of the golden age of musicals or the latest West End sensations.
“It would be remiss to reflect on the music without a special mention to the society’s rehearsal pianist, Carl Schofield, who has worked tirelessly with the cast over the past three months to help deliver a stunning performance.”
Under the parasol: Alice Rose in Wonders Of The West End.Picture: Robert David Photography
This year’s concert marks the debut of regular principal actress Courtney Brown as assistant director under Luke’s stewardship.
“It has been a privilege working with Courtney,” he says. “I could not have wished for a better assistant. We have got on fantastically well from day one and our interest and taste in musical theatre is very similar, which has helped us create a unified production. I look forward to working with Courtney again and seeing her develop as a director.”
Pickering Musical Society presents Wonders Of The West End, Kirk Theatre, Pickering, October 10 to 13, 7.30pm nightly. Box office: 01751 474833 or online at Wonders of the West End (littleboxoffice.com).
Pickering Musical Society’s full company for Wonders Of The West End. Picture: Robert David Photography
“I’m delighted to be joining this fabulous organisation as artistic adviser and working with this talented team in the beautiful city of York,” says Mark Seow
VIOLINIST, musicologist , writer and broadcaster Mark Seow is the new addition to York Early Music Festival’s team of artistic advisers.
He joins mezzo-soprano and BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artist Helen Charlston, music writer and producer Lindsay Kemp, University of York Emeritus Professor of Music and Yorkshire Baroque Soloists & Choir director Peter Seymour and University of Huddersfield Emeritus Professor of Music and Rose Consort of Viols member John Bryan.
“I’m delighted to be joining this fabulous organisation as artistic adviser and working with this talented team in the beautiful city of York,” says Mark. “I’ve always been a huge admirer of the world-class York Early Music Festival, which continues to go from strength to strength, attracting the finest musicians to the city.”
Festival director Dr Delma Tomlin says: “We’re very pleased to welcome Mark to York Early Music Festival’s talented team, whose input is so important to the development and profile of this hugely popular annual celebration of early music.
“I’m sure that Mark’s wealth of experience and enthusiasm will be invaluable assets and I’m sure he will enjoy his time in this beautiful city.”
After studying Baroque violin at the Royal Academy of Music in London, Seow received his doctorate in the music of Johann Sebastian Bach from the University of Cambridge.
He has performed at the Wigmore Hall (London), St Thomas Church (Leipzig), Philharmonie (Berlin) and Palais Garnier (Paris), working with directors such as John Eliot Gardiner, Masaaki Suzuki, Rachel Podger, Harry Bicket and Trevor Pinnock. He has even performed with the Orchestra Of The Age Of Enlightenment in the Royal Albert Hall and a pub!
Seow has been a broadcaster for BBC Radio 3 since 2021, presenting more than 50 editions of The Early Music News. His documentary for BBC Radio 4, Eastern Classical, was shortlisted for a Royal Philharmonic Society Award in 2024. He has worked for Decca Classics, Bach Network and Bärenreiter and has been a critic for Gramophone magazine since 2019.
He taught at the University of Cambridge, where in 2023 he was AHRC DTP Fellow in Music, and now holds a position in the University for Music and Performing Arts department of musicology in Vienna.
His recordings include Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte and Handel’s Messiah and he premiered the electronic-choral work Lark Ascending Remixed at London’s Southbank Centre.
