Carols and Christmas music from the Birmingham Festival Choral Society and Bournville Village Primary School Choir. The audience will be invited to join in well known carols, and share seasonal refreshments at the end.
A collection will be taken for St Basils, the Birmingham charity helping young people to find and keep a home.
The Final Bow: His Last Tour On The Road
Richard Dawkins – one of the most respected scientists and thinkers of our time – has decided to ‘quit while ahead’ after his autumn series of shows across the UK and Europe.
His new tour, An Evening with Richard Dawkins and Friends launches in the US next month, before a series of shows across England and Scotland in October and November.
The world-renowned evolutionary biologist and best-selling author of such landmark books as The Selfish Gene, The God Delusion and Unweaving The Rainbow has earned millions of admirers through his passion for the wonders of science and the vital importance of reason.
Speaking about his decision to step away from touring, Richard Dawkins said: “I am 83 years old, and travel is more irksome than it was.
“The maxim, ‘Quit while you’re ahead’ has recently received a welcome boost, and I anticipate that this will be my last EU/UK tour. My swansong. My final bow.
“There’ll be a Q&A at every event. And I’ll be signing any or all of my 19 books, including The Genetic Book of the Dead, which will be just published.
“This will probably be your last opportunity to tell me how profoundly you disagree with everything I’ve written and said. Or the reverse if that is the case. Either way, I look forward to seeing you.”
Renowned for his unapologetic advocacy of science and reason, Dawkins is celebrated for groundbreaking work that captivates millions with his passion for scientific inquiry.
In his new tour, Dawkins and friends will share conversations on topics from science to religion, life on earth and beyond, as well as his upcoming book The Genetic Book of the Dead (available September 17), in which Dawkins delves into the transformative potential of DNA in our understanding of evolution.
So don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this enlightening experience delivered with this legendary scientist’s trademark honesty and wit.
The UK dates of An Evening With Richard Dawkins and Friends are promoted by Live Nation’s Cuffe and Taylor in association with WME and IDEATE.
Ben Hatton, Cuffe and Taylor’s Director of Theatre Touring, said: “One of the world’s foremost scientists and thinkers of our time, we are honoured to be hosting Richard Dawkins’ final live shows across England and Scotland.
“Richard’s live shows are certain to be thought-provoking and insightful, and as a last chance to challenge this revered and respected thinker will quite simply be unmissable.”
Limited VIP Tickets available, including:
– Premium seating
– Meet & Greet with Richard, with an opportunity for photo op (Starts at 5.30pm)
– Limited Edition signed copy of Richard’s latest book ‘The Genetic Book of the Dead’
Under 14’s Must be accompanied by an Adult
The Final Bow: His Last Tour On The Road
Richard Dawkins – one of the most respected scientists and thinkers of our time – has decided to ‘quit while ahead’ after his autumn series of shows across the UK and Europe.
His new tour, An Evening with Richard Dawkins and Friends launches in the US next month, before a series of shows across England and Scotland in October and November.
The world-renowned evolutionary biologist and best-selling author of such landmark books as The Selfish Gene, The God Delusion and Unweaving The Rainbow has earned millions of admirers through his passion for the wonders of science and the vital importance of reason.
Speaking about his decision to step away from touring, Richard Dawkins said: “I am 83 years old, and travel is more irksome than it was.
“The maxim, ‘Quit while you’re ahead’ has recently received a welcome boost, and I anticipate that this will be my last EU/UK tour. My swansong. My final bow.
“There’ll be a Q&A at every event. And I’ll be signing any or all of my 19 books, including The Genetic Book of the Dead, which will be just published.
“This will probably be your last opportunity to tell me how profoundly you disagree with everything I’ve written and said. Or the reverse if that is the case. Either way, I look forward to seeing you.”
Renowned for his unapologetic advocacy of science and reason, Dawkins is celebrated for groundbreaking work that captivates millions with his passion for scientific inquiry.
In his new tour, Dawkins and friends will share conversations on topics from science to religion, life on earth and beyond, as well as his upcoming book The Genetic Book of the Dead (available September 17), in which Dawkins delves into the transformative potential of DNA in our understanding of evolution.
So don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this enlightening experience delivered with this legendary scientist’s trademark honesty and wit.
The UK dates of An Evening With Richard Dawkins and Friends are promoted by Live Nation’s Cuffe and Taylor in association with WME and IDEATE.
Ben Hatton, Cuffe and Taylor’s Director of Theatre Touring, said: “One of the world’s foremost scientists and thinkers of our time, we are honoured to be hosting Richard Dawkins’ final live shows across England and Scotland.
“Richard’s live shows are certain to be thought-provoking and insightful, and as a last chance to challenge this revered and respected thinker will quite simply be unmissable.”
Limited VIP Tickets available, including:
– Premium seating
– Meet & Greet with Richard, with an opportunity for photo op (Starts at 5.30pm)
– Limited Edition signed copy of Richard’s latest book ‘The Genetic Book of the Dead’
Under 14’s Must be accompanied by an Adult
Join us at St Mary’s Guildhall for an evening of music, storytelling and entertainment. With live musical performances that celebrate Black excellence and creativity, showcasing the contributions of Black artists to global culture and entertainment and storytelling that highlight the resilience, innovation, and beauty of the Black experience, creating a space for reflection, connection, and joy.
The evening will be hosted by Sandra Godley OBE, an acclaimed singer-songwriter, OBE recipient, and advocate for diversity, Sandra will not only host the event but bring her personal insights and experience to the forefront.
Gates open at 6.45 for a 7pm start
Catch Jazz Jam & Vibes every first Thursday of the month! – Where special guests take center stage at The Box. With the bar open, prepare to be whisked away by melodic tunes and smooth notes.
Immerse yourself in the feel-good atmosphere and get lost in the music as live musicians make every instrument shine in jazz. Stay tuned for announcements on upcoming performers and invite your friends to witness these captivating performances.
After the main act, JAMMERS ARE WELCOME! The stage opens up for an open mic and jam session. No judgment here—just pure, unfiltered vibes.
8.30PM to 11PM. Don’t miss out!
⭐ GUEST PERFORMER FOR THIS MONTH: SIMON SPILLET ⭐
“Straight-ahead, high energy jazz is his line and he does it with aplomb”
‘Lest We Forget’
Join us at 10:40am on Monday 11th November for a short service to remember the fallen.
After spending five years starring as Dean Martin in the hit West End show ‘The Rat Pack – Live From Las Vegas’, Mark Halliday created his first of many hit shows, ‘The Rat Pack – Swingin’ At The Sands’ in 2010.
Over the past decade the show has gone from strength to strength, with appearances in some of the UK’s leading theatres, spots on cruise ships across the world from Catalan to Colombia, events for corporate clients including Virgin Airlines and performances at outdoor shows everywhere from Denmark to Dubai.
With their mastery of the Great American Songbook, the show prides itself on authenticity, camaraderie, comedy and the ability to give everyone a swingin’ time.
Starring Tom Russell Fox as Frank Sinatra, Jim Whitley as Sammy Davis Jr and Glenn Macnamara as Dean Martin, the show will offer audiences all the usual most-loved Rat Pack staples including “New York, New York”, “That’s Life” and “My Way” as well as singalongs to a range of festive favourites such as “Winter Wonderland” and “White Christmas”.
Immerse yourself in the serene embrace of these popular, atmospheric concerts – where hushed anticipation and spellbinding seasonal music fills the air, and the choir is enveloped in the soft glow of candlelight.
Ex Cathedra perform a seamless sequence of Christmas favourites, little-known gems and gorgeous new music, interspersed with a selection of readings, to explore the magic, mystery – and humour – of the season.
Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment. Running time approx. 2 hours 10 minutes, including interval.
EX CATHEDRA
JEFFREY SKIDMORE – conductor
RUPERT JEFFCOAT – organ
Bursting onto the UK jazz scene in 2020, the Simon Spillett Big Band is that rarest of rare beasts – a genuine all-star jazz orchestra, in this instance uniting some of the most accomplished soloists and bandleaders of today, who’ve come together to celebrate to a colossal musical genius of yesteryear, the late, great saxophonist Tubby Hayes, arguably the nation’s best-loved jazz legend.
Featuring a starry line-up of UK jazz greats under the direction of award-winning tenorist Simon Spillett, the band’s mission statement is simple; to bring back the heady excitement of the Tubby Hayes Big Band of the 1960s, an outfit which raised the roof whenever and wherever it performed. This band follows in the same spirit, creating an intoxicating atmosphere in which its music communicates on every level, the entire package tied together with the leader’s signature insightful wit.
Utilising a repertoire of Hayes’ arrangements, many of which were never issued on record, as well as pieces by his contemporaries like trumpeter Jimmy Deuchar and pianist Harry South, the Simon Spillett Big Band has already proved hugely popular with those who’ve come to hear it, its London debut in October 2021, at the landmark venue the 100 Club, drew an overflowing crowd, eager to catch what one writer has already dubbed “the most hard-swinging big band in existence right now.”
Since then the band has appeared at many leading UK jazz festivals including the EFG London Jazz Festival and at legendary venues including the Pizza Express Jazz Club in London’s Soho.
The band’s debut album “Dear Tubby H.” was released in 2023 and received unanimous praise in the jazz press, Jazzwise magazine awarding it a coveted 5-star review.
Simon Spillett (tenor sax) leads Nathan Bray, Mark Armstrong, Bruce Adams, Steve Fishwick (trumpets),
Mark Nightingale, Andy Flaxman, Ian Bateman, Pete North (trombones), Sammy Mayne, Pete Long, Alex Garnett, Robert Fowler, Alan Barnes (saxophones), Rob Barron (piano), Alec Dankworth (bass), Pete Cater (drums)
Friday 20 December, The Box at Fargo Village
Doors open at 7:00pm Band starts at 7:30
£20.00 per person
A very special (trick or) treat for Halloween, Gandeys Circus returns once again with a brand-new action packed legendary Halloween Spooktacular Big Top Show for all the family.
A specially selected international cast of skeletons, vampires, Jack o’lanterns and not forgetting Circus Artistes, have been brought together for this year’s sensational extravaganza.
From the thrill acts to the big production numbers Gandeys are famous for, it’s all here and you will be on the edge of your seat with excitement, rolling in the aisles with laughter, and hiding under your coats from the spooky thrills.
We look forward to welcoming you back with our brand-new production, from our family to your family…
As part of our 10th birthday celebrations, join us on Sunday 29th from 7pm for our live music programme
Please book your tickets in advance
£3.00 pp – all proceeds will be donated to Coventry & Warwickshire MIND
Who provide invaluable mental health support services to all ages, including children, young people and adults, supporting in excess of 30,000 people each year.
Programme
7.00pm John Bernard Coventry Poet Laureate & Band
9.00pm The Dirt Road Band
Hailing from Stoke Aldermoor, Coventry Poet Laureate John Bernard is a spoken word performer of East African heritage. With a captivating blend of raw emotion, powerful storytelling, and thought-provoking insights, John Bernard has established himself as a notable name in the spoken word scene.
John extends his impact beyond performances through active community engagement. He leads creative workshops, empowering young minds to find their voice and express themselves through the art of poetry and music.
Experience opera and theatre favourites this autumn as Coventry’s Heart of England Co-operative Concert Orchestra presents a sparkling programme of music for all the family.
The concert will feature a variety of well-loved pieces from both opera and musical theatre. Enjoy excerpts from Bizet’s lively Carmen Suite and the familiar and uplifting tunes of The Lion King by Hans Zimmer. The program also includes the moving music of Miss Saigon by Schönberg, the playful Pirates of Penzance by Sullivan, and the charming overture from Strauss’s Die Fledermaus – and many more!
Book the concert in your diary at 3pm on 28th September at The Methodist Central Hall, Warwick Lane, Coventry CV1 2HA.
The concert will raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Now in its 106th year, the orchestra has been bringing music to Coventry since 1917 and is proudly sponsored by the Heart Of England Cooperative Society. Last year the orchestra raised over £1860 for charities including Coventry and Warwickshire Mind, UNICEF and Global Care.
Ticket prices are £10 adults, £7.50 concessions, £1 children under 16. Available on the door or book in advance:
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/heart-of-england-coop-concert-orchestra/hoecco-autumn-concert/e-boblll
London Road Cemetery 11pm-4pm (each visit lasts about 25 mins) FREE
An intimate installation by Gobbledegook Theatre, combining clouds and words in an outdoor cloud-gazing area; lie back, look up and contemplate the mutability of clouds, as well as the mutability of humanity, guided by the soothing voice of performer and creator Lorna Rees.
Cloudscapes was commissioned by Inside Out Dorset, and was made with support from Activate Performing Arts, The Point Eastleigh, 101 Creation Space and Arts Council England.
Cathedral Ruins 1pm & 5pm (25 mins) FREE
Black Victorians looks at the complex and often forgotten Black presence in pre-Windrush Britain; a powerful dance performance that celebrates previously hidden figures and questions both old and new perceptions.
Black Victorians is supported by Without Walls, Historic Royal Palaces and R&D investment through Without Walls Blueprint, with thanks to the St George’s Garrison Church Trust; commissioned by festival.org, Hat Fair and Brighton Festival.
St Mary’s Guildhall 12pm FREE
Broadgate 2pm FREE
Canal Basin 3.45pm FREE
The Powerhouse 5.45pm FREE
Stretching to 6 metres high, twisting and curling into a ball, meet two playful and eye-catching slinkies and witness this charming story of two springy creatures gently falling in love
Broadgate 1.15pm (40 mins) FREE
Broadgate > Cathedral 5pm (30 mins) FREE
The living embodiment of Rajasthan – the land of royalty – and a spectacular celebration of Jaipur’s vibrant and colourful lifestyle with a quirky repertoire spanning Rajasthani folk, Bollywood hits, spiritual qawwali, Bhangra beats, Sci-Fi theme tunes, intergalactic funk and perhaps a bit of pop.
St Mary’s Guildhall: 1.15pm (30 mins, limited capacity) FREE
Lower Precinct: 5pm (30 mins) FREE
From multiple hula hoops and cocktails served on her head to bad magic routines and a version of Swan Lake danced on traffic cones, Abi has done it all. But she still hasn’t found what she’s looking for. After all, no woman is an island
St Mary’s Guildhall 12:00pm, 1:30pm & 3:00pm (15 mins, limited capacity) FREE
Celebrate the splendour of Mughal art as miniature paintings come to life and meet a majestic peacock and a prim princess in the Guildhall courtyard. If you’re very lucky, you’ll get to see the peacock and the princess dance together!
Mughal Miniatures is supported by Without Walls and commissioned by Hat Fair, Certain Blacks and Brighton Festival.
Broadgate 1pm & 5pm (25 mins) FREE
A visually arresting, energetic aerial performance by Highly Sprung exploring our difficult relationship with our environment; drowning under a crushing mass of plastic, the Keeper of the Waterways awakens and rises up. It’s time for change
Broadgate 1.15pm & 5.15pm (30 mins) FREE
A highly physical performance by Ascension Dance about bridging differences and divides. The performers discover that the only way to succeed will be by finding a way to work together, support each other, and lift one another up; inspired by parkour and freerunning, a thrilling blend of dance and acrobatics that flips expectations.
Broadgate 12pm-3pm & 4pm-6pm (5 mins per show) FREE
Step (or wheel) inside the mouth of a giant tin whale and embark on an underwater adventure; a magical, interactive storytelling experience by Talking Birds, that’s engaging for the whole family.
Precinct Fountain up to Broadgate 1pm & 5pm (50 mins) FREE
Join a vibrant parade by Autin Dance Theatre with a towering giant wheel; a lively, colourful spectacle rolls its way through the city centre celebrating community and creativity and the power and impact of people coming together.
Broadgate 1.15pm (25 mins) FREE
Lower Precinct 5.15pm (25 mins) FREE
Three performers from Simple Cypher blur the boundaries between hip hop dance and circus cyr wheeling. This series of playful interactions will inspire and amaze audiences of all ages. Featuring feel-good choreography, a few smiles and storytelling.
Roll Play is supported by Without Walls and Brighton Festival; Norfolk and Norwich Festival; Salisbury International Arts Festival, part of Wiltshire Creative, and Hat Fair. Further commissioning, funding and support from Arts Council England, 101 Outdoor Arts and Stratford Circus.
Prepare to be amazed by the fastest paintbrush in the West (Midlands) by Jon Hicks; a messy, splattered collision between Jackson Pollock, Buster Keaton and Andy Warhol, with a bit of rockabilly styling for good measure. Beyond painting… beyond painting by numbers.
Broadgate 1.30pm & 5.15pm (20 mins) FREE
Get ready for soggy laughs and inventive absurdity. Meet the infamous and pompous speciality act ‘Spurting Man’ and his undervalued, downtrodden assistant; culminating in a waterlogged finale when he is crowned and, atop his pedestal, cascades fountains of water as he becomes a human fountain.
This presentation of The Spurting Man is supported by Severn Trent Water
Broadgate: 1pm & 5.15pm (45 mins) FREE
Dive into a wild adventure with a breathtaking mix of acrobatics and dance; through extraordinary physical skills, Motionhouse explores our relationship with nature, the urban jungle and our mobile phones. A breathtaking must-see!
WILD is commissioned by Gulbenkian & ART31 and Birmingham Hippodrome (as part of the Hippodrome Associate Artist programme). Supported by Without Walls with commissioning from Freedom Festival, Hat Fair and Out There International Festival of Circus & Street Arts. With additional backing from the Garfield Weston Foundation, the Foyle Foundation and The 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust.
This presentation of WILD is supported by mCreat
Broadgate (start) 12.30pm (45 mins walkabout) FREE
Friargate, nr Cov Station (start) 4pm (45 mins walkabout) FREE
We look forward to introducing Cov to Kamchàtka – eight mysterious visitors who arrive with just their suitcases and an insatiable curiosity. Never the same show twice, this interactive company inspire and challenge our perceptions about how we welcome strangers.
Belgrade Plaza (start): 12pm (45 mins walkabout) FREE
Cathedral Ruins (start) 4pm (45 mins walkabout) FREE
We look forward to introducing Cov to Kamchàtka – eight mysterious visitors who arrive with just their suitcases and an insatiable curiosity. Never the same show twice, this interactive company inspire and challenge our perceptions about how we welcome strangers.
St Mary’s Guildhall 1.15pm (30 mins, limited capacity) FREE
Lower Precinct 5pm (30 mins) FREE
Guaranteed giggles galore from internationally award-winning funnyman; featuring a stunt duck, a human fish, eccentric dancing and the silliest boxing match you have ever seen. Get a ringside seat for a belly-aching knockout performance.
The Dreamers (originally Freddie & The Dreamers) celebrate some of the very greatest hits of the 1950s and 60s in this uplifting afternoon of non-stop nostalgia!
Multi-talented musical entertainer Andy Eastwood presents a classic variety show that will whisk you straight down memory lane to a golden age of entertainment! Special guest comedian Steve Barclay provides the laughs, fondly remembering favourite stars of yesteryear, and versatile singer Victoria Jones will delight you with songs you know and love.
It’s a feel-good show guaranteed to set the feet tapping, the smiles glowing and the memories flowing. Book early and bring a party for this unmissable, sparkling afternoon of music and fun.
All the way from the sunny coast of Western Australia, singer-songwriter & all round retro rocker Jamie Turner embarks on his debut UK / European tour this August and September! The acclaimed one man band is now taking to the stage with his sensational new live outfit to deliver a selection of his charming songs throughout England, France and Spain.
Turner’s music has been described as ’60s folk infused psych-friendly pop by critics and has been compared to the likes of Todd Rundgren, Emitt Rhodes, Donovan & George Harrison.
“Truly unbelievable and reminiscent of the sweet sound of the 1970’s” – Up To Hear Music
Support TBA
“Weird? Very… but also downright inspiring” (****) – Rolling Stone
“Jeffrey Lewis is an amazing musician, and if you don’t know his songs you probably have a hole in your heart that can only be filled by his words… I did!” – Regina Spektor
The mind-spinning indie-rock/folk/art of Jeffrey Lewis & The Voltage developed when songwriter and comic book artist Jeffrey Lewis began recording homemade cassettes in New York City in 1998; his critically acclaimed, unusual and word-dense songs lead to Jeffrey signing to Rough Trade Records in 2001 (record label of The Smiths, The Strokes, Belle & Sebastian, etc.), and the project evolved into a live touring cult sensation around the world. Creating a brilliant style of scuzzy urban indie-rock-folk, like a 21st Century mash-up of Sonic Youth, Pete Seeger and R. Crumb, Jeffrey’s band has played countless gigs all over the world, including playing as the opening act for icons like the Mountain Goats, Daniel Johnston, Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks, Dinosaur Jr, The Fall, Dr. Dog, Pulp, Roky Erickson, The Vaselines, and more.
Their most recent official album is “Jeffrey Lewis & The Voltage: Bad Wiring” released on Don Giovanni Records (USA) and Moshi Moshi Records (internationally) in November 2019 (garnering rave reviews), but Jeffrey has also digitally self-released four DIY albums from his apartment since the pandemic started. With or without bandmates Jeffrey continues to wring folksy spiel and garage bohemianism from his ramshackle guitar, while incorporating his often politically subversive visual artwork and cartoons into live appearances. Some of these audio/visual projects have been hosted by the History Channel website, such as “The Story of Sitting Bull,” a Jeffrey Lewis illustrated song which won a Webby Award in 2011 for “Best Writing on the Internet.” Jeffrey’s “The Story of Keith Haring” was commissioned by the Museum of Modern Art in 2021.
As of 2024 the 4-piece line-up of Jeffrey Lewis & The Voltage includes Mallory Feuer on violin and keyboard, Kait Pelkey on bass and Brent Cole on drums.
hmv Empire presents: Peeping Toms’ Comedy Club
With Josh Pugh, Jo Enright, Eddy Brimson & Douglas Carter
Friday 9th August 2024. Doors 6PM, Show starts at 8PM
Earlybird tickets – £12.50+BF. General Admission – £15+BF.
Opening Act – Josh Pugh
‘Inarguably five stars… he’s destined for the big leagues’ – British Comedy Guide
Midlands Comedy Awards Best Live Show Winner
English Comedian of the Year 2016 Winner.
Hot Water Comedy Club Comedian of the Year 2016.
Winner of new act competitions in both the Birmingham and Nottingham comedy festivals of 2015. He also won the Midland new-act of the year in both 2014 and 2015
Middle Act – Jo Enright
As seen on Trollied, Phoenix nights, Afterlife, I’m Alan Partridge, Ideal and life’s too short to name but a few.
‘One of the most naturally gifted Comic talents I’ve ever seen’ – Peter Kay
Headline – Eddy Brimson
Eddy is one of the most in demand headline acts on both the UK and International circuits. He’s played festivals worldwide, from Edinburgh to Auckland, The Alps to Australia.
“If there were a school of comedy in the British Isles then Brimson would be top of the class.”
– Sydney Herald
MC – Douglas Carter
Doug Carter is a multi-award-winning stand-up comedian with over 100,000 online followers. He is local to the Midlands
Comedy Awards Breakthrough Talent Winner
THE SELECTER
Sat 28th Sept 2024
£27.50
7pm – 11pm
The Selecter is led by their iconic frontwoman Pauline Black OBE with original drummer Charley ‘Aitch’ Bembridge. Pauline is one of very few women in the 2-Tone scene – often referred to as “The Queen of Ska”.
Known the world over for hits including “Three Minute Hero,” “Missing Words”, “Too Much Pressure” and “On My Radio”, The Selecter continue to tour and release new music proving that 2-Tone is still as relevant and important as it was 40 years ago. They released their much-acclaimed new album Human Algebra in 2023.
A 3CD Box Set & Vinyl of Too Much Pressure was released in 2021 to celebrate the album’s 40th anniversary. The Deluxe Edition reached #1 in the Official UK Vinyl Album Charts and #1 in the Official UK Independent Album Charts on its release.
The Selecter recently supported Blur at Wembley and also performed live at the Commonwealth Games Closing Ceremony in Birmingham. The anarchic passion that fuelled Selecter gigs during the original 2-Tone era is still there well and as they continue to perform around the world.
MARTIN KEMP BACK TO THE 80s
Plus LIVE DURAN DURANISH
Plus LIVE SYSTEM 80s
SAT 14th SEPT 2024
Age 18 +
Tickets
Early Bird Tickets: £25.00 + Booking FeeFinal Release Tickets: £30.00 + BF
Doors 7pm
First band on stage 8pm
About the Show:
The Spandau Ballet star will be taking to the decks and spinning all the best of the hits from the 80’s. As he presents the biggest 80’s night to ever hit the town!
Dig out those 80’s clothes, grab your dancing shoes, and prepare to enjoy a night of pure ‘Gold’ and Yes fancy dress is encouraged!
In a recent interview on ITV’s This morning program, Martin described what these shows are like.
“It’s amazing! People absolutely lose themselves, singing to every word. It’s the most euphoric atmosphere I have ever been in, in my life!” If you want to join us, don’t delay. This is the perfect event to come together with friends and loved ones. Martin Kemp’s band ‘Spandau Ballet’ has topped the charts and sold millions of records worldwide. If you remember the music of the 80s, you KNOW Spandau Ballet!
Most recently seen on Channel’s Goggle Box with his Capital Radio DJ son Roman + Celebrity Island with Bear Grylls, Martin Kemp continues to have a truly distinguished career. Since his role in the global success of Spandau Ballet, he has played lead roles in likes of The Krays and Eastenders plus Starring in Gary Barlow’s Let it Shine!
Join Martin as he trades his bass for the decks and spins the biggest and best hits from the 1980’s! An Unstoppable Singalong!
One of Don Broco’s only shows of 2024 ! 2000 Trees Festival Warm-up show 💫💫
Don Broco + support comes to hmv Empire on Thursday 11th July 2024.
+ Support from Dune Rats & Bowen
14+ show (u16s accompanied with an adult).
Mercury Music Prize-nominated Lanterns on the Lake hail from Tyneside and have been releasing music on prestigious indie label Bella Union label for over 10 years.
With the recruitment of Radiohead’s Philip Selway on drumming duties, their most recent album Versions Of Us took their distinctive widescreen melancholic sound to new heights. The album’s nine songs are existential meditations examining life’s possibilities, facing the hand we’ve been dealt and the question of whether we can change our individual and collective destinies.
Versions of Us is the band’s most cohesive and concise record yet, with its pervading sense of empowerment encapsulated in Hazel Wilde’s startling vocal performances. Her voice now also soars with previously unheard force on an album austere in its beauty, with its shifting sands of searing guitar, fluttering vintage synths and swarming melodic lines.
The nation’s twelfth-favourite doctor brings his brand new show to Leeds, fresh from a record-breaking run at the Edinburgh Fringe.
This is Going to Hurt was a literary sensation, selling three million copies and becoming a multi-BAFTA-winning BBC series.
Undoctored follows on from This is Going to Hurt, leaving audiences laughing and crying with Adam’s unique tales of life on and off the wards.
It also contains the ‘degloving’ story because people ask for refunds if they don’t hear it.
A sensational Jazz / Funk band – The Brand New Heavies: Brother Sister 30 Tour, Saturday 9th November at hmv Empire Coventry !
The Brand New Heavies celebrate the album’s 30th anniversary with the announcement of the ‘Brother Sister 30’ tour.
Released in 1994, The Brand New Heavies’ third album ‘Brother Sister’ changed everything for the band. Propelled by the classic singles ‘Dream On Dreamer’, ‘Midnight At The Oasis’ and ‘Back To Love’, the record achieved huge success (a #4 chart position, over a million sales and a BRIT nomination) as they cemented their position as the pioneers of Acid Jazz.
Featuring original members Andrew Levy and Simon Bartholomew with the phenomenal vocalist Angela Ricci, the tour will see The Brand New Heavies perform ‘Brother Sister’ in full alongside other hits and fan favourites from their storied history with a complete live band.
Join us on Dec 4th and 12th at St Mary’s Guildhall and step into the past this holiday season with Scrooge’s Spirit: A Festive Journey Through Dickensian Coventry 🎩
Visit St Mary’s Guildhall for a captivating one-man performance of “A Christmas Carol” and Witness Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation in this 45 minute 1 man show as you immerse yourself in the timeless tale. Plus discover the enchanting world of Charles Dickens and Coventry with historical context to enrich your experience.
A glass of mulled wine and a mince pie is included and perfectly complements your theatrical journey into the festive spirit. Tickets also include 30 minutes after the show for visitors to explore the guildhall. Shows are available at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
The year is 1895. You have been invited to Christmas Dinner at St Mary’s Guildhall in the heart of Coventry, but, just before it begins, the festivities are disturbed. You are to be visited by the spirit of one who died that very night. Your job is to figure out who killed them, and why, before you see the bloody business carried out before your very eyes!
Murder mystery ticket includes:
Arrival drink.
A 3 Course set meal. Click here to view menu.
Murder mystery entertainment.
Finish with Tea/Coffee & Mince Pies.
Please note the arrival time for this event is 7pm with dinner being served at 7:45pm.
Tickets for this event are non-refundable and non-transferable.
This event is strictly 18+ and ID may be required.
Relive the magic of Take That’s biggest hits with Re-Take That, the UK’s number-one tribute band, for one night only at Coombe Abbey Hotel.
Get ready to relive the magic of Take That’s greatest hits with the UK’s favourite tribute band, Re-Take That. With attention to detail and an unwavering passion for the music, this talented group of performers will transport you back to the glory days of the 90s. From the same costumes and dance routines to the same lighting and effects, Re-Take That provides a truly immersive experience that will make you feel like you’ve seen the real thing. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sing, dance, and party all night long with this incredible tribute band.
Why not book a table with your family and friends in our Marquee for this fantastic night of drinks, dinner and dancing.
Experience Blossomise – a live music and poetry performance by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage and the band LYR.
Supported by a playlist and found sound from musician SL Walkinshaw, this event is part of a series celebrating the National Trust’s annual Festival of Blossom and the uplifting sight of spring.
Inspired by the old habit of telling the hive of a death Tell it to the Bees weaves
together wonder and folk tales, true life accounts and encounters with bees both in folklore and the natural world.
Presented as part of the Dead Good Death Festival (3-5 May at the Anglican Chapel) this performance is about travelling forward, hope, and life whilst still remembering those that have gone before. It is lively, funny and thought provoking.
Expect shapeshifting magic, wise women, and bee lore, nature imagery and travelling
companions who are not of this world
Immortal Onion is a Polish trio founded in spring 2016 and inspired by artists like Esbjörn Svensson, Hiromi Uehara, Portico Quartet and Tigran Hamasyan. The group from Gdansk offers a bold combination of many seemingly remote styles – jazz, film music, minimalism as well as fusion, electronic music and even progressive metal. The unique sound of the group originates from the stylistic variety and skillful combination of rhythmically complex, energetic riffs with minimalistic, trance beats and lyrical themes.
STRANGE ADVENTURES – SONIC BLISTERS ARE ASSURED
The Strange Adventures spaceship is landing in Coventry carrying a wonderful mix of noise rock, shoegaze, gritty inner city psycho-delia, spacey psych n’ roll with Sanskrit vibes, electropunkfunk with camouflage drummers mixing bass culture, performance artists and live sculpture.
Performances will start at 7.15 pm and finish 11.00 pm, the Strange Adventures rocket ship will then fly off to another dimension.
JACKDAW WITH CROWBAR – The Lobby Group inc.
Expect bass driven contemporary electropunkfunk – Because You’re Worth It… and expect dramatic shenanigans on and off stage, including the ‘soon to be’ familiar unexpected troupe of camouflage drummers. Plus, and for the 2nd time since the ground breaking show with Stewart Lee back in Feb they are introducing new collaborators, entering their 7th dimension not only are they presenting some familiar classics and a healthy dose of new audio and visual material there’s a treat in store for anyone that likes to mix their bass culture with live sculpture!!!
”The best thing to come out of Leamington since the Grand Union Canal” Stewart Lee
“The guitarist plays magnificent slide and shred” Thurston Moore
“Thought they were shit, they thought they were shit, the audience thought they were groovy” Steven Wells NME
https://www.jackdawwithcrowbar.net/
SATSANGI
Pysch-n-roll, often raucous, sometimes transient
Satsangi, with roots in Kerala South India, are based in the Leamington Spa. They gig internationally with a sound melding together rock, punk, jazz, psychedelia, ragas and traditional Indian music. The band are signed with Mr Babu (New York / Mumbai) and featured in Rolling Stone magazine. Satsangi have been invited to support The Kills, The Dandy Warhols, The Primitives, Dr Feelgood, The Bonnevilles, Dirty Sound Magnet and many more.
“It all started when Mother was singing classical Indian ragas, upstairs I was listening to Led Zeppelin, wondering what it would sound like if Kishori Amonkar sang with the B-52’s” Sujatha Menon
“Iodine is an awesome song” Talvin Singh
“A crunchy meld of new wave and punk riffs” Rolling Stone Magazine
“I feel like I could play that for the next hour or so, but then I’d lose my job, she sounds brilliant her name is Sujatha Menon, she’s the lead singer of Satsangi”
Bobby Friction – BBC Asian Network
Ultraviolet – Satsangi (Mr Babu)
www.satsangiband.com
THE ROLLOCKS
A little bit hairy, a little bit lairy (a tiny bit fairy…)
Inner city psycho-delia.
Formed in 2022, The Rollocks have since taken the Coventry music scene hostage with their raucous and sassy, glamorous-but-gritty, psycho-delic hard rock experience.
Bearing a wide range of influences such as Tina Turner, Black Sabbath, Etta James, Iggy Pop, Motorhead, Aretha Franklin and Sex Pistols to name a few. In the short space of a year, The Rollocks have sold out local venues (including their bars) and have an ever-increasing fan base containing people from all walks of life. Their songs are ferociously hook-laden and catchy. Their performances are wild and hypnotic. Their members are working-class artists who demand to be heard.
www.the-rollocks.com/
TROJAN PONY
Trojan Pony are a gorgeous four piece hailing from the mean streets of Coventry. With strong hints of shoegaze and subtle notes of noise rock combining to create a spicey yet smooth full bodied audio delight.
https://trojanpony.bandcamp.com/
Mercury Music Prize-nominated Lanterns on the Lake hail from Tyneside and have been releasing music on prestigious indie label Bella Union label for over 10 years.
With the recruitment of Radiohead’s Philip Selway on drumming duties, their most recent album Versions Of Us took their distinctive widescreen melancholic sound to new heights. The album’s nine songs are existential meditations examining life’s possibilities, facing the hand we’ve been dealt and the question of whether we can change our individual and collective destinies.
Versions of Us is the band’s most cohesive and concise record yet, with its pervading sense of empowerment encapsulated in Hazel Wilde’s startling vocal performances. Her voice now also soars with previously unheard force on an album austere in its beauty, with its shifting sands of searing guitar, fluttering vintage synths and swarming melodic lines.
Direct from London’s world-famous jazz club and combining world-class live jazz, narration, rare archive photos and video footage, The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars take to the stage to celebrate the The Ronnie Scott’s Story.
Set amongst the dive bars and jazz jook joints of London’s Soho, we hear about the desperate hand-to-mouth finances of the early years and the frequent police raids. We hear how Ronnie’s became neutral ground within rife gang territory and their scrapes with gangsters including the Krays who were rumoured to have taken Ronnie and Pete “for a little drive”! Life at Ronnie’s is evocatively reimagined through tales of the club’s past visitors, from pop stars, film stars and politicians to comedians and royalty, but above all, the musicians.
Mixing classic music from the jazz greats who have performed at Ronnie Scott’s over its incredible 60+ year history, alongside tales of old Soho, miscreant musicians and police raids, this is a unique evening celebrating one of the world’s most famous jazz venues, its music, and history.
‘Outstanding players. For poise, balance and swing they’re a joy to listen to.’ The Observer
‘Full-on brilliance.’ The Guardian
‘Marrying vision and sound comes The Ronnie Scott’s Story, recounting the blazing trajectory of the legendary jazz shrine with a creative combo of live band action, natty narratives and rare archival footage.’ Jazzwise Magazine
Adapted from the novel and popular film, Legally Blonde: The Musical traces the vibrant journey of Elle Woods, a cheerfully fashionable UCLA sorority queen whose world crumbles when her boyfriend Warner ends their relationship.
Determined to break stereotypes and showcase her depth beyond her blonde appearance, Elle surprises everyone by pursuing him to Harvard Law School.
Amidst challenges of fitting in and academic hurdles, she discovers a surprising aptitude for law, defying everyone’s expectations.
Elle’s infectious pink spirit prevails, challenging norms and proving that authenticity triumphs.
The musical unfolds as a delightful celebration of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformative power of staying true to oneself.
Indulge in a gourmet three-course set meal, sip on a complimentary arrival drink, and dance the night away to the sounds of classic hits such as “Haven’t Met You Yet,” “Feeling Good,” “My Way,” “New York, New York,” “Me & Mrs. Jones,” “Fly Me to the Moon,” and many more. Whether you’re a dedicated fan of swing or simply looking for a night of entertainment, “Me & My Shadow” promises an experience that will exceed your expectations.