Oxford Playhouse Season Brochure March to August 2013

Free What’s On GuideMarch to August 2013

Welcome to a Playhouse for Everyone

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01865 305305www.oxfordplayhouse.com

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Welcome to Oxford PlayhouseMarch to August 2013

A very warm welcome to the summer programme at OP.

It’s an exciting mix of drama, music, comedy and dance, designed to stimulate the senses, the mind and the heart! Main stage treats include a heart-warming play, Maurice’s Jubilee, starring the wonderful Nichola McAuliffe and Julian Glover, a brilliant Rattigan, Less than Kind, an imaginative staging of Chekhov’s masterpiece, The Seagull and Dennis Potter’s legendary Blue Remembered Hills. Don’t miss an Oxford Playhouse co-production with Complicite, one of the best theatre companies in the world. Together we’ll be staging the premiere production of Lionboy.


OPINI ON01865 305305www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Bodleian for the sixth annual visit of The Globe, with The Taming of the Shrew. We’re also getting on our bikes, and making a special new show for children, taking place in Osney, called Bicycle Boy. We need your pedal power, so get ready! There’s plenty more on offer in the Burton Taylor Studio, around the city with Playhouse Plays Out and on the main stage, so enjoy perusing the programme and book soon to get the best seats. I can’t wait to see all of these shows. I hope you feel the same way too!

Michelle Dickson Director, Oxford [email protected]

There are also classics in the shape of Brian Friel ’s Dancing at Lughnasa, the irresistible The 39 Steps from the West End, and the smash hit National Theatre show, The Pitmen Painters.

Comedy comes in the unique form of Daniel Kitson and Julian Clary, dance from the ever inspiring Richard Alston, and there’s a musical to get you dancing in Break The Floorboards. We are pitching our OP Tent at sites across the county, bringing free theatre and fun activities to all ages, and setting up at the


Don’t forget…

Monday 11 MarchJasmin Vardimon Dance Company

Tuesday 12 MarchThe School of Night

Award-winning choreographer and Associate Artist of Sadler’s Wells, Jasmin Vardimon returns with her new show, Freedom.

This intricate dance theatre production combines breathtaking physicality with beautifully detailed characterisation for a thought-provoking evening.

Outstanding. Impressively performed, beautifully staged. Thrilling and cinematic, dark and intimate. HHHHH Salford Online

What would you like to see tonight? Comedy, tragedy or history?

The School of Night is a new Shakespearean play created from scratch based on suggestions from you, the audience.

This team of Bardic improvisers take on any challenge thrown down by the crowd, as they create a one-off Shakespearean masterpiece in this daring evening.

Uproarious improvised scenes…this is intelligent, laugh a minute-fare. HHHH Daily Telegraph

Show time 7.30pm

Show time 7.30pm

Ticket prices£9.50 to £19.50

Enjoy! membership25% off

Age guideline 14+

Ticket price £15

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Don’t forget…

Friday 15 and Saturday 16 MarchUnder Milk WoodBy Dylan Thomas

Tuesday 19 to Saturday 23 MarchCuriosity ShopA Dickens RemixAdapted by Daniel Jamieson

Welcome to the sleepy, run-down fishing village of Llareggub and Dylan Thomas’ inimitable description of its colourful characters. As the town sleeps we meet the extraordinary residents and glimpse the innermost hopes and dreams of their complicated lives.

Bawdy, sad and beautiful, Oxford Playhouse Young Company, 16|22, brings to life Thomas’ stunning language in this exciting new production set to reflect the economic challenges of today’s world.

Theatre Alibi and Oxford Playhouse reunite with a co-production of Charles Dickens’ classic tale The Old Curiosity Shop.

Imaginatively translated to the present day, Dickens’ story of love, human frailty and downright wickedness has a fabulous cast of characters, from bent lawyer Sally Brass to wide boy rapper Dick E. Swiveller. Playfully staged, featuring film and a soundtrack that takes in hits from Elvis Presley to Professor Green, Curiosity Shop shows England to be as much a cultural curiosity shop as it ever was in Dickens’ day.

Show times Tue to Thu & Sat eves: 7.30pm Fri: 8pm Thu & Sat mats: 2.30pm

Ticket prices£9.50 to £25

Enjoy! membership50% off Tuesday50% off Saturday matinee

Show times Fri: 8pm Sat: 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Ticket prices£10.50 children £8.50

Enjoy! membership25% off Friday

Pre show talkFri 15 Mar at 6.45pm with Bernard O’DonoghueTickets: FREE

Post show talkFri 15 Mar

Post show talk Wed 20 Mar

Pre show talkThu 21 Mar at 6.15pm with Nikki Sved & Daniel JamiesonTickets: FREE


available


Don’t forget…

Monday 25 to Saturday 30 MarchFencesBy August Wilson

Monday 1 to Wednesday 3 AprilSpot’s Birthday PartyAdapted and directed by David Wood

Winner of multiple accolades, including two Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Fences is one of the greatest American dramas of the 20th century.

Lenny Henry stars as Troy Maxson. Once a gifted athlete but denied his turn at the big time, Troy struggles through daily life, taking out his anger on his wife and a sports-obessed son.

Set in 1950s Pittsburgh, Fences is a story of a family battling against prejudices and the universal heartache of a man robbed of his dreams.

It’s the birthday of everyone’s favourite puppy! All of Spot’s friends will be here; Steve the Monkey, Helen the Hippo and Tom the Crocodile plus Spot’s mum and dad, Sally and Sam.

Writer and director David Wood has taken Eric Hill ’s characters and woven them into a bright and colourful musical show. Join in the fun with songs, games, stories and theatrical magic to capture everyone’s imagination.

Show times Mon to Thu & Sat eves: 7.30pm Fri: 8pm Thu & Sat mats: 2.30pm

Ticket prices£12.50 to £28(no discounts Fri & Sat eves)

Show times Mon: 1.30pm Tue & Wed: 10.30am &1.30pm Tue 2 at 1.30pm is a Relaxed performance read more on pg 58

Ticket prices£11 children £9(no booking fee)

Enjoy! membership25% off Monday25% off Saturday matinee

Post show talkWed 27 Mar

Age guideline 2 to 6 years

Visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com to download your birthday card to colour in. Enter your card to win a family ticket to Robin Hood 2013


Don’t forget…

Friday 5 and Saturday 6 AprilRapunzelChoreographed and directed by Liv Lorent

Tuesday 9 to Saturday 13 AprilThe MisanthropeBy Roger McGough after Molière

From the company behind Underneath the Floorboards comes this stunning new adaptation of the classic Grimm fairy-tale, Rapunzel. Written by Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy, award-winning choreographer Liv Lorent combines beautiful movement, stunning costumes and original music in this enchanting new show.

This spellbinding dance theatre production is an Easter holiday treat not to be missed.

How to lose friends and infuriate people!

Master wordsmith Roger McGough dips his quill into a Molière classic in this mockery of manners and morals set amid 17th century French aristocracy. Considered by many to be Molière’s best play, The Misanthrope joins the creative forces of McGough, director Gemma Bodinetz and English Touring Theatre.

Show times Tue to Thu & Sat eves: 7.30pm Fri: 8pm Thu & Sat mats: 2.30pm

Ticket prices£9.50 to £25

Enjoy! membership50% off Tuesday50% off Saturday matinee

Show times Fri: 7pm Sat: 2pm & 7pm

Ticket prices£15 children £12

Enjoy! membership 25% off Friday

Age guideline For everyone aged 7 and over

Post show talkWed 10 Apr

Captioned performanceWed 10 AprAudio described performanceSat 13 Apr at 2.30pm Touch Tour at 1pm

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Monday 15 to Saturday 20 April

Maurice’s Jubilee By Nichola McAuliffeDirected by Hannah Eidinow, designed by Christopher Richardson

Maurice, a retired jeweller, is expecting a visit from the Queen. 60 years ago, when he took charge of the Crown Jewels on the eve of her coronation, she promised to find him on the occasion of her diamond jubilee and his 90th birthday.

Maurice’s Jubilee is a hilariously funny and poignant take on one man’s enduring commitment to a dream. Exploring timeless themes of love and loyalty, it was the critically-acclaimed smash hit of the 2012 Edinburgh Festival.

Nichola McAuliffe wrote, and stars in, this touching comedy. Nichola, who was last at the Playhouse with The Lady and the Van, won Olivier Awards for her roles in the West End and for the RSC and is well known for her TV career. She is joined on stage by Gay Soper (Star Quality) and Julian Glover, who won the Olivier Award for Best Actor for his work for the RSC and is renowned for a range of Hollywood films.


Show timesMon to Thu & Sat eves:7.30pmFri: 8pmThu & Sat mats: 2.30pm

Ticket pricesMon to Wed eves & Sat mat:£9.50 £15.50 £19.50 £22.50Thu to Sat eves: £10 £18 £22 £25Thu mat: £9.50 £11.50 £17 £20

Enjoy! membership 25% off Monday 25% off Saturday matinee

Post show talkWed 17 Apr

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Pleasance and PW Productions in association with Wild Thyme Productions and Ambassador Theatre Group

Nichola McAuliffe is terrific actress and here proves herself a more than promising playwright. There’s a touch of Alan Bennett in the spry wit she brings...

HHHH Daily Telegraph


Wednesday 24 to Saturday 27 April

Life is a DreamLa vida es sueñoBy Pedro Calderón de la Barca

Show timesWed, Thu & Sat eves:7.30pmFri: 8pmThu & Sat mats: 2.30pm

Ticket prices£9.50 £10.50 £12.50 £15.50Student tickets: £9.50Available in advance

University of Oxford Student Company, The Oxford Spanish Play, brings an exciting new production of Pedro Calderón de la Barca’s masterpiece, Life is a Dream to the Playhouse stage.

The undisputed flagship of Spanish Golden Age theatre and considered the peer of plays such as Hamlet and Oedipus, Life is a Dream interweaves themes of power, destiny and love.

Locked up in a tower at birth by his father, Prince Segismundo’s future is doomed by a prophecy that pronounced him a disaster for the country. Now a grown man, the Prince is liberated by his father and given the chance to prove the prophecy wrong, but can he escape his fate?

This classic play was recently a sell-out hit at the Donmar Warehouse, and will be performed here in Spanish, accompanied by English surtitles.

Enjoy! membership 50% off Wednesday 50% off Saturday matinee

Performed in Spanish with English surtitles

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University of Oxford Student Company: The Oxford Spanish Play


Tuesday 30 April and Wednesday 1 May

Richard Alston Dance Company

Described by the Times as “a choreographer for whom every dance is a love affair with his chosen music”, Richard Alston brings his company back to the Playhouse with a stunning mixed bill.

Unfinished Business is danced to Mozart’s beautiful and flowing piano sonata Opus K533, and Gigue in D, accompanied by a live pianist. In Buzzing Round the Hunnisucle, Alston combines two contrasting pieces of music by Kondo in a dance of nimble and breathtaking precision.

The bill is completed by a new work by Martin Lawrance called Madcap, a startling piece with music by New York band Bang on a Can All-Stars and described by the Independent as “a knock-out”.

Elegantly refined. Times

Richard Alston Dance Company

Show time7.30pm

Ticket prices£9.50 £15 £19 £22

Enjoy! membership25% off Tuesday

Pre show talk Tue 30 Apr: 6.15pm Top Room Tickets: FREE Please note, the Top Room is not accessible for wheelchair users

Watch the trailer at www.oxfordplayhouse.com

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Show time8pm

Ticket prices£20, all discounts £18

Age guideline16+

Thursday 2 May

Julian ClaryPosition Vacant: Apply Within

Julian Clary is looking for love and he’s not leaving town empty handed…

Position Vacant: Apply Within is Julian Clary’s inimitable night of camp comedy and his search for love… again. Climaxing with a marriage, live on stage, expect ruthless elimination games plus bridesmaids, clergymen, confetti and much more.

Julian Clary remains one of the UK’s busiest writers and performers on stage and screen. In 2012 he guested on TV favourites including Would I Lie to You?, Q.I. and Live at the Apollo and remains a regular panelist on BBC Radio 4’s Just a Minute.Following a sold out autumn tour, the UK’s best-loved purveyor of saucy innuendo is back by public demand.

Hilarious…vintage Clary. HHHH What’s on Stage

Mick Perrin for Just for Laughs Live



Friday 3 May

Reduced Shakespeare CompanyThe Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) Written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield

All 37 plays in 97 minutes!

An irreverent, fast-paced romp through the Bard’s plays, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) is London’s longest-running West End comedy.

Join these madcap men in tights as they weave their wicked way through all of Shakespeare’s Comedies, Histories and Tragedies in one wild ride that will leave you breathless and helpless with laughter.

Pithier than Python. Irresistible. New York Times

Reduced Shakespeare Company

Show time8pm

Ticket price£16

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Show time7.30pm

Ticket prices£9.50 £10.50 £12.50 £15.50Student tickets £9.50 available in advance

Saturday 4 May

The Oxford Revue and Friends

Join The Oxford Revue as it unites with its biggest sketch comedy rivals, The Cambridge Footlights and The Durham Revue, for an evening of sharp satire, blistering one-liners, and side-splitting absurdity. This is your opportunity to witness some of the country’s finest young comic talents assembled in Oxford for one night only. The Oxford Revue and Friends features a live band and is hosted by some very special guests.

Presenting their best material from throughout the year, these are tomorrow’s comedy superstars at their fiery best. Past members of the three troupes include Al Murray, Olivia Colman, Armando Iannucci, Richard Ayoade, and the cast of Monty Python, to name but a few.

Witty, inventive and extremely clever…the comedy stars of the future. HHHHH ThreeWeeks on The Oxford Revue

University of Oxford Student Company: The Oxford Revue


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Wednesday 8 to Saturday 11 May

The Wizard of OzBy L . Frank Baum

There’s no place like home, there’s no place like home...

Oxfordshire Youth Music Theatre, part of the County Music Service, presents a magical journey to the land of Oz! Wicked witches, powerful sorcerers, flying monkeys and colourful Munchkins are joined by Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion in this timeless tale of self-discovery.

Featuring all the well-loved songs from the film, this is your chance to see some of the county’s most talented performers and instrumentalists.


Show timesWed, Thu & Sat eves: 7.30pmFri: 8pmSat mat: 2.30pm

Ticket prices£9.50 £13.50 £16 £17

By arrangement with MusicScope and Stage Musicals Limited of New York

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Oxfordshire Youth Music Theatre

A production which exceeded my expectations and I am certain that OYMT will continue to be providing the West End with new cast members over the coming years.

What’s on Stage on Evita 2011

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Tuesday 14 to Saturday 18 May

Less than KindBy Terence Rattigan

London, 1944. The war is reaching its climax on the beaches of Normandy, but senior minister John Fletcher is distracted by his affair with attractive widow Olivia Brown. As Olivia’s 17 year-old son returns home, a politicised evacuee joining the rising tide of socialists, he’s outraged at the minister’s immorality and the thought of his mother marrying ‘the enemy’.

This romantic comedy from Terence Rattigan lay undiscovered due to an accident of wartime Britain and has received incredible reviews from audiences and critics alike in this, its first production. A beautifully observed, funny exploration of politics, social commentary and domestic drama, Less than Kind is brought to the stage by director Adrian Brown, a personal friend of Rattigan himself.


Show timesTue to Thu & Sat eves:7.30pmFri: 8pmThu & Sat mats: 2.30pm

Ticket pricesTue (preview) & Thu mat: £9.50 £11.50 £17 £20Wed eve & Sat mat: £9.50 £15.50 £19.50 £22.50Thu to Sat eves: £10 £18 £22 £25

Enjoy! membership 50% off Wednesday 50% off Saturday matinee

Post show talkWed 15 May

OPINIONAn extremely classy production of a wonderful play, which I urge you to see. Rattigan’s reputation has soared in recent years, and rightly so, and this play is one of his best.

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Planet Theatre

A masterclass in passion simmering beneath the decorum...witty and touching.HHHH Evening Standard


Tuesday 21 to Saturday 25 May

The SeagullBy Anton Chekhov In a new version by John Donnelly

A lake. A young girl who’s spent her life beside it. She loves the lake, she’s happy; she’s free – like a seagull. Then a man comes along, sees her, and destroys her.

Headlong returns to Oxford Playhouse with an innovative re-imagining of a classic text, by writer John Donnelly.

In The Seagull, Chekhov explores emotion, creativity and romantic conflict with the clarity of a doctor and the heart of a poet. Its young, tormented protagonist is determined to overthrow the old and find new forms of expression as he struggles with the frustrations and fulfilments of putting words on a page.

This darkly comic tale is directed by Blanche McIntyre, described by the Evening Standard as “a rising star”.

Show timesTue to Thu & Sat eves: 7.30pm Fri: 8pm Thu & Sat mats: 2.30pm

Ticket pricesTue to Wed eves & Sat mat: £9.50 £15.50 £19.50 £22.50Thu to Sat eves: £10 £18 £22 £25Thu mat: £9.50 £11.50 £17 £20

Enjoy! membership 50% off Tuesday 50% off Saturday matinee

Post show talk Wed 22 May

Pre show talkFri 24 May at 6.45pmWith James Methven Top RoomTickets: FREEPlease note, the Top Room is not accessible for wheelchair users

Captioned performanceThu 23 May at 2.30pmAudio described performanceSat 25 May at 2.30pm Touch Tour at 1pm

OPINIONThis promises to be a special evening. Oxford alumna Blanche McIntyre is a great talent, The Seagull is an amazing play, and Headlong is renowned for its hugely ambitious shows including the award-winning Enron and The Effect.

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A Headlong and The Nuffield, Southampton production In association with Derby Theatre

The country’s most exciting touring company.Daily Telegraph


The Opera Group and Opera North in association with ROH2 and Watford Palace Theatre

Show timesTue & Wed eves: 7.30pmWed mat: 2.30pm

Ticket pricesTue & Wed eves: £10 £12.50 £15.50 £17.50Wed mat: all seats £10

Enjoy! membership 25% off Tuesday

Post show talk Wed 29 May (mat)

Age guidelineFor everyone aged 8 and over

Look out for An Introduction to the Story Workshop on Wed 29 May. Read more on pg 51

Tuesday 28 and Wednesday 29 May

The Firework-Maker’s DaughterAn Explosive Musical AdventureBased on the story by Philip Pullman

Lila desperately wants to be a firework-maker like her father, but when he refuses to teach her, she runs away from home to discover the three gifts of firework-making for herself. With the help of her friends, she faces pirates, tigers and the terrifying Fire-Fiend on her perilous quest.

A vivid re-telling of the award-winning children’s book by Philip Pullman, this new family opera, with a libretto by Glyn Maxwell, is brought to life by magical puppetry, and music by David Bruce that sparkles with humour and musical fireworks!

Don’t miss this explosive half-term holiday treat.

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Rifco Arts and Watford Palace Theatre


Thursday 30 May to Saturday 1 June

Break the Floorboards

All Zain wants to do is dance, but his family, two left feet and the local yobs are all getting in the way. As the harsh reality of his jobless home town hits, Zain attempts to escape and turn his life into a showbiz world of fantasy…

From the team behind the 2011 smash hit musical Britain’s Got Bhangra, this brand new show sees Bollywood and street dance collide in an electric, feel-good time for everyone.

A delight that brings the audience to its feet… HHHH Guardian on Britain’s Got Bhangra

Show timesThu: 7.30pmFri: 7pmSat: 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Ticket prices£10 £12.50 £15.50 £17.50Sat mat: all tickets £10

Enjoy! membership 25% off Thursday

Post show talkFri 31 May

Look out for Street Dance Workshop on Thu 30 May. Read more on pg 52

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Tuesday 4 to Saturday 8 June

Blue Remembered HillsBy Dennis Potter

Into my heart an air that killsFrom yon far country blows:What are those blue remembered hills,What spires, what farms are those?AE Housman

Following Close the Coalhouse Door, Northern Stage returns with Dennis Potter’s seminal play Blue Remembered Hills.

Seven children play in a world of dappled sunshine one wartime summer until their merriment turns sour. Hilarious games, complex friendships and moral dilemmas lead them headlong into sudden and unexpected tragedy. Almost 20 years after his death, Dennis Potter’s charming and profound play captures humanity, wicked humour and his fierce intolerance of ordinary cruelty.



Ticket pricesTue & Wed eves & Sat mat: £9.50 £15.50 £19.50 £22.50Thu to Sat eves: £10 £18 £22 £25Thu mat: £9.50 £11.50 £17 £20

Enjoy! membership 50% off Tuesday50% off Saturday matinee

Post show talk Wed 5 Jun

Captioned performanceThu 6 Jun at 2.30pmAudio described performanceSat 8 Jun at 2.30pm Touch Tour at 1pm

Look out for Blue Remembered Hills Schools’ Workshop on Wed 5 Jun. Read more on pg 54

Pre show talkFri 7 Jun at 6.45pmWith James Methven Top RoomTickets: FREEPlease note, the Top Room is not accessible for wheelchair users

OPINIONNorthern Stage is back, and with a truly wonderful play. This theatre company has brought us brilliant production after brilliant production – Close the Coalhouse Door, Our Friends in the North and Oh What a Lovely War, so don’t miss this one.

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A Northern Stage Production

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LionboyFrom the novels by Zizou CorderDevised by the Company, Annabel Arden and Mike KennyDirected by Annabel Arden

Oxford Playhouse is delighted to be co-producing Lionboy with Complicite, one of the world’s most exciting and unusual theatre companies.

Charlie Ashanti is eleven years old. He’s a perfectly normal boy, except for one thing: he can speak to cats. When Charlie’s parents are kidnapped, he sets off on a rescue mission – with a little help from a floating circus and its pride of performing lions…

Award-winning theatre company Complicite presents its first show for families and young people, inspired by Zizou Corder’s best-selling books and with a cast including Adetomiwa Edun from BBC’s Merlin.

Complicite, founded by Simon McBurney, Annabel Arden and Marcello Magni, has been touring internationally for the past thirty years. Described by the New York Times as “mesmerizing, dynamic and continuously engaging” its recent productions include A Disappearing Number and The Master and Margarita.


Show timesTue to Sat eves: 7pm Wed & Thu mats: 1pm Sat mat: 2.30pm

Ticket pricesTue & Wed eves & Sat mat: £9.50 £12.50 £15.50 £17.50Thu to Sat eves: £12.50 £14.50 £17.50 £19.50Wed & Thu mats: all tickets £12.50

Family ticketTue & Wed eves & Sat mat:£50Thu to Sat eves: £60(Four tickets, inc. up to two adults, on best seats available)


Post show talk Wed eve & Thu mat

Age guideline For everyone aged 8 and over

Captioned performanceSat 15 Jun at 2.30pmAudio described performanceSat 15 Jun at 2.30pm Touch Tour at 1pm

Schools’ Workshops Workshop packages are available for students of all ages. Please contact [email protected] for more information

OPINIONA highlight of the year. I still have shivers remembering Theatre de Complicite’s Mnemonic, from over 10 years ago, so feel hugely excited to not only be presenting the company at OP again, but to be co-producing the show with them. Though created for children and young people, adults won’t want to miss this theatrical treat.

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A Complicite co-production with Bristol Old Vic, Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse, Oxford Playhouse, Wales Millennium Centre and Warwick Arts Centre

Complicite produces the most imaginative theatre to be found anywhere.Independent

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Dancing at LughnasaBy Brian FrielDirected by Richard Beecham

Donegal, 1936; a time when life is simple but making ends meet seems impossibly hard.

The five unmarried Mundy sisters laugh, cry and dance together through daily difficulties until their missionary brother returns home from decades in Africa. Frail and different through years living abroad, he challenges the sisters’ relationships within the family. As dusk sets on the only life the sisters have ever known, they question their beliefs and their place within the community, as dreams of love begin to crumble.

Told through the eyes of seven-year old Michael, Brian Friel ’s Olivier and Tony Award-winning play is a magical, moving story of a rural world on the brink of revolution.

Filled with humour, tenderness and the longing of unfulfilled lives, Dancing at Lughnasa is produced by Royal & Derngate Northampton, winners of The Stage 100 Award 2010 for regional theatre of the year.



Ticket pricesTue & Wed eves & Sat mat: £9.50 £15.50 £19.50 £22.50Thu to Sat eves: £10 £18 £22 £25Thu mat: £9.50 £11.50 £17 £20



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A Royal & Derngate Northampton Production

With all eyes on the capital it is good to be reminded that some of the most daring, fascinating theatre springs up well outside it.

Times on Royal & Derngate

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Monday 24 to Saturday 29 JuneJohn Buchan’s

The 39 StepsAdapted by Patrick Barlow

Direct from the West End, Broadway and 25 countries around the globe, comes a joyous version of the Alfred Hitchcock classic spy thriller, The 39 Steps, brilliantly and hilariously recreated as a smash hit comedy and winner of the Olivier Award for Best New Comedy.

This blissfully funny show follows the adventures of our handsome hero Richard Hannay, complete with stiff-upper-lip, British gung-ho and pencil moustache as he encounters dastardly murders, double-crossing secret agents, and, of course, devastatingly beautiful women.

Wonderfully inventive, The 39 Steps features four fearless actors, playing 139 roles in 100 minutes of fast-paced fun and thrilling action.


Show timesMon to Thu & Sat eves: 7.30pm Fri: 8pm Thu & Sat mats: 2.30pm

Ticket pricesMon to Wed eves & Sat mat: £12.50 £18.50 £22.50 £25.50Thu to Sat eves: £12.50 £21 £25 £28Thu mat: £12.50 £16.50 £20.50 £23.50(no discounts Fri & Sat eves)

Enjoy! membership 25% off Monday25% off Saturday matinee


Captioned performanceThu 27 Jun at 2.30pmAudio described performanceSat 29 Jun at 2.30pm Touch Tour at 1pm Watch the trailer at www.oxfordplayhouse.com

OPINIONUnmissable! If you’ve seen it before, you’ll want to see it again, and if it’s your first time, lucky you! Either way, book soon as it’s selling fast.

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Fiery Angel

Uproariously jolly and splendidly inventive.Guardian

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Friday 5 to Sunday 7 July

Lord of the FliesBy William Golding

A plane crashes on an uninhabited island leaving a group of school boys as the only survivors. With no parents and no rules to obey the boys’ delicate sense of order soon begins to collapse.

In the summer of 1953, William Golding submitted to his publishers a book ‘about children on an island, children who behave in the way children really would behave’. Sixty years later, by kind permission of William Golding Limited, Magdalen College School Theatre Academy premieres a new adaptation of Golding’s iconic novel. This production is the first spoken version to include music and, in particular, song to tell the story. Following its much-praised version of Virgil’s The Aeneid last year, Lord of the Flies sees the Academy work with writer and director Joanne Pearce, composer Shaun Davey and Adrian Noble, who co-directs, to produce a thrilling take on this classic story.

Magdalen College School Theatre Academy

Show timesFri: 7.15pmSat: 3pm & 7.15pmSun: 11am & 3pm

Ticket prices£15 discounts £12

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Oxford Playhouse Saturday 6 July to Sunday 18 August

The Playhouse Plays Out Tent

5000 people came to the Tent last summer; where were you?! This summer we are back visiting your favourite fêtes, festivals and carnivals. Open all day, the Tent includes magical shows for children, workshops, crafts, games and more.

So if you’re looking for FREE family fun or an interactive experience from the comfort of a cosy armchair under canvas, watch out for the Playhouse Plays Out Tent – coming to a green space near you.

Fantastic! We spent two hours in your tent! What a brilliant concept. Lovely, accommodating staff and great resources. Even better… it’s free! Thank you. Audience member


Locations includeOxfordshire PlaydaysEynsham CarnivalBerinsfield FêteAnd many more to be confirmed

Age guidelinesFor everyone aged 3 and over

Visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com to watch a video and for a full list of locations

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Tuesday 9 to Sunday 21 July

The Taming of the ShrewBy William ShakespeareDirected by Joe Murphy

Two wealthy sisters in Padua must be married off. The modest, demure Bianca has no shortage of suitors, but who on earth will take the wild Katherina? Perhaps the gold-digging Petruchio, as maddeningly strong-willed and perverse as Katherina herself, will be equal to the task of bullying her to the altar?

Shakespeare’s outrageous comedy introduces one of theatre’s great screwball double-acts: a couple hell-bent on confusing and outwitting each other right up to its controversial conclusion.

Firmly established as one of the city’s annual highlights, Oxford Playhouse and the Bodleian Library are delighted to welcome back the Globe Theatre on Tour to perform The Taming of the Shrew in the stunning setting of the Old Schools Quadrangle.


Show timesTue to Sun eves: 7.45pm Sun mats: 2.30pm Sat 20 mat: 3.30pm

Ticket prices£18.50 discounts £16.50

Enjoy! membership £15.50 (all performances)

Groups 10+£15.50 (all performances)

Post show talk Wed 17 Jul

Introducing Taming of the Shrew FREE pre-performance talks will be offered from 7pm in Convocation House, Bodleian Library, by members of the Faculty of English, University of Oxford, before all evening performances. Tickets are FREE but book your place via the Ticket Office

Bodleian Shop We look forward to welcoming you pre-performance and offering our unique gift ranges, all inspired by the Bodleian’s collections. www.bodleianshop.co.uk

Bodleian Library Tours Daily 30 minute and 60 minute guided tours. Longer 90 minute tours on Wednesdays and at weekends. Please visit www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk about/visitors or tel: 01865 287400 for details

International Bookbinding Competition 2013 View a display of contemporary bookbinding on the theme of Shakespeare from some of the best binders worldwide in the Proscholium, Bodleian Library

Look out for...

H Henry VI on pg 44

H Romeo and Juliet Workshop for ages 13 to 17 on pg 52

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Globe Theatre on Tour

On a scale of one to ten of spectacular venues, the Bodleian Library Quad has to score eleven.Oxford Times

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Tuesday 23 to Saturday 27 July

James and the Giant PeachBy Roald DahlAdapted by David Wood

James lives with Aunt Sponge and Aunt Spiker, the most revolting Aunts in England. They make him work and slave and never let him play with other children. Then one day he meets a mystical old man who gives him a bag that contains the strongest magic the world has ever known. When James accidentally spills the bag near an old peach tree, the most incredible things start to happen – and James embarks on the adventure of a lifetime!

Following its acclaimed productions of George’s Marvellous Medicine and The Jungle Book, Birmingham Stage Company presents Roald Dahl ’s amazing story, adapted by renowned children’s playwright David Wood (Spot’s Birthday Party). If you’re looking for fruit-filled fun and wizz-popping wonders this summer holiday, then don’t miss James and his Giant Peach!


Show timesTue: 7pm Wed to Fri: 2pm & 7pmSat: 10.30am & 2pm

Ticket prices£9.50 £11 £14 £16

Family ticketBest available £53Mid price £46(Four tickets, inc. up to two adults)

Enjoy! membership 50% off Tuesday50% off Saturday at 10.30am

Post show talk Thu 25 Jul (mat)

Age guideline 4+

Signed performanceSat 27 Jul at 2pm

Look out for... Oxford Playhouse Young Company 7|10, and explore Roald Dahl in this weekly workshop for everyone aged 7 to 10 years. Read more on pg 53

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Birmingham Stage Company

A heart-warming mix of fun, fruit and nuts in this charming production.HHHH Daily Mail

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Monday 29 July to Saturday 3 August

The Pitmen PaintersBy Lee Hall

In 1934, a group of Ashington miners hired a professor to teach an art appreciation evening class. Rapidly abandoning theory in favour of practice, the pitmen began to paint – prolifically. Within a few years avant-garde artists became their friends and their work was acquired by prestigious collectors, but every day they continued to work, as before, down the mine…

Written by Lee Hall, creator of the worldwide sensation Billy Elliot and collaborator on Samuel West’s exhilarating Close the Coalhouse Door, The Pitmen Painters has received huge critical acclaim at the National Theatre and on Broadway, and won the Evening Standard Award for Best New Play. Highly amusing, deeply moving and always entertaining, it examines the lives of a group of ordinary men who do extraordinary things.


Show timesMon to Thu & Sat eves: 7.30pm Fri: 8pmThu & Sat mats: 2.30pm

Ticket pricesMon to Wed eves & Sat mat:£12.50 £18.50 £22.50 £25.50Thu to Sat eves: £12.50 £21 £25 £28Thu mat: £12.50 £16.50 £20.50 £23.50(no discounts Fri & Sat eves) Enjoy! membership 25% off Monday25% off Saturday matinee

Post show talk Wed 31 July

Captioned performanceThu 1 Aug at 2.30pmAudio described performanceSat 3 Aug at 2.30pm Touch Tour at 1pm

OPINIONI’m so pleased that this play is on the road again. It’s proved to be a huge hit with audiences and critics alike, so don’t miss it on its first visit to Oxford.

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Bill Kenwright presents a Live Theatre Newcastle and National Theatre co-production

Perfectly-pitched…manages to be tragic, funny and illuminating in one fell swoop of energy. HHHHH Evening Standard

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house presents Bookworks TheatreFriday 12 April

The Incredible Book Eating BoyBy Oliver JeffersBarefoot Books, Summertown OX2 7ED

Oxford Playhouse and Live CanonApril to September

The Oxford Poetry WalkDevised and directed by Helen Eastman

Henry loves books, but not like you and I like books… he loves to EAT books. The more books he eats, the smarter he gets. But a book-eating diet isn’t the healthiest of habits, as Henry soon finds out!

This intimate theatre adaptation of Oliver Jeffers’ award-winning book is an exciting adventure for children aged 4 and over, and their grown-ups.

Each performance is five minutes long and presented to one child and an accompanying adult at a time. There will be a chaperoned play area for children waiting their turn if you want to bring more children than grown-ups.

Back by popular demand, The Oxford Poetry Walk is a 70-minute walk around Oxford with specially selected and recorded poetry for company.

Pick up an MP3 player, headphones and a map from the Playhouse Ticket Office and set off to enjoy the city with literary greats including Gerard Manley Hopkins and Oscar Wilde for company. Performed by Live Canon and produced by Oxford Playhouse.

What a superb experience! I would advise everyone to do the Poetry Walk…it must be the best value in Oxford. Audience member

Show times Every 6 minutes from 12pm to 1.30pm & 2.30pm to 4pm

Ticket price£3 per adult and child(no discounts)

Show times Mon to Sat: 10am to 6pm (or 4.30pm when there is no evening show at Oxford Playhouse.)

Ticket price£3.50 (no discounts)

Age guidelinesFor everyone aged 4 to 8 years

There is limited capacity for this production so early booking is recommended

Why not… Stop in the Playhouse café for coffee and cake on completing your walk?

You will need to leave identification as a deposit, and MP3 players must be returned within 2 hours


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Hannah Jane Walker and Chris ThorpeFriday 17 May

The Oh F**k MomentDorfman Centre, St Peter’s College OX1 2DL

A show to see if you’ve ever stood on a rake. Or got locked in a shed. Or followed your inclination to experiment and ended up in A+E. Or pressed the button that had the sign next to it saying: ‘Do not under any circumstances press this button’…

This critically-acclaimed, Fringe First Award-winning show took Edinburgh by storm and sees poet Hannah Jane Walker and Chris Thorpe examine the guts of mistakes so big there’s no way back. A conversation for brave souls to hold their hands up and admit they messed up… or for people to laugh heartily because someone else did too.

Show times 6pm & 8pm

Ticket price£12

Age guidelines18+


Comedian Daniel Kitson returns to the Playhouse for one night only with his brand new show. Keep an eye on the Oxford Playhouse website for more details www.oxfordplayhouse.com The best comic of his generation.Guardian

Show time 8pmTicket price £12 (no discounts)

Sunday 9 June

Daniel Kitson

ON SALENOW!

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Friday 3 to Sunday 12 May

Bicycle BoyAn Oxford Playhouse ProductionWritten and directed by Helen EastmanOsney Mill Marina, Mill Street Oxford OX2 0AN

Grab your helmet, hop on your bike and come on down to Sam’s bicycle workshop. Only make sure you’re feeling fit, because we’re relying on you to pedal-power the show!

Sam’s happiest when he’s fixing bikes. It’s what his Dad used to do, and his Grandad before that. Years ago, Grandad taught Sam how to ride and promised that when he took his stabilisers off he’d get a very special present. But where did he hide it? Sam’s determined to find it, even after all these years, but he’s going to need your help…

Join us at Osney Mill Marina Garage and enter a magical world of broken spokes, spare wheels and bicycle bells in this brand new Playhouse Plays Out production for children aged 5 to 8 and their families.

Set in our specially created bicycle workshop, roll up your sleeves and get ready to pedal or sit back and enjoy this interactive Oxford Playhouse production, featuring live music and lots of fun.


Show timesFri: 4pmSat: 12pm & 4pmSun & Mon: 11am & 3pm

School performances available Thu 9 and Fri 10 May. Please contact [email protected] for more information on these and schools’ workshop packages

Ticket prices£8.50 discounts £5.50

Age guideline For everyone aged 5 to 8 and their families

Look out for... Visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com for lots of information about how to cycle to the show. Everyone who comes by bike gets a FREE drink on arrival!

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Age guideline Suitable for children aged 3 to 8 years and their families

Ticket prices £11 discounts £9


Fridays at 5pmJoin us for Fridays at 5pm to get your weekend off to a flying start...

Friday 22 March at 5pmSusan GreenfieldDigital Brain: What does it mean for you?

Oxfordshire Science Festival and Oxford Playhouse present an exclusive Friday at 5pm with renowned neuroscientist Baroness Susan Greenfield.

A former director of the Royal Institute, Baroness Greenfield will talk about how digital technologies are having an unprecedented effect on our lives, thoughts and feelings.

Referencing child development and how brains young and old are being forced to adapt to new ways of living, she will explore the potential positive and negative changes the digital world is having on our brains and how to minimise the threats and harness the opportunities for life in the 21st century.

After the talk, Susan will take questions from the audience.


Friday 12 April at 5pmMichaela Strachan’s Really Wild AdventureAdapted from her book of children’s poetry, TV favourite Michaela Strachan takes families on a delightful journey through an alphabet jungle of animal rhymes.

From antelopes to zebras, orphaned orangutans to polar bear dentistry, this is a whistle stop interactive show with poetry, dancing, music and lots of fascinating wildlife facts.

Michaela will sign copies of her book after this really wild Easter holiday Friday at 5pm.


Fridays at 5pmJoin us for Fridays at 5pm to get your weekend off to a flying start...

H Enjoy 50% or 25% off tickets for selected performances

H No booking fees on all discounted Enjoy! tickets

H Three FREE programme vouchers every year

H Guaranteed early mailing of OP What’s On Guides

H Priority booking periods every season

Membership: £50 per year.Sign up today at the Ticket Office.

ENJOY! MEMBERSHIP GIVES YOU 50% OR 25% OFF TWO TICKETS FOR ALMOST EVERY WEEK-LONG PRODUCTION AT OXFORD PLAYHOUSE.

Friday 24 May at 5pmWicked Women The Archers’ stars come to Oxford

Two Wicked Women take over thePlayhouse stage, as The Archers’ stars Sara Coward (Caroline Sterling) and Sunny Ormonde (Lilian Bellamy) present their unique musical anthology, celebrating outrageous women throughout the centuries.

Full of good humour, sparkling wit and tales of some seriously wanton women, Sara and Sunny celebrate scandalous souls both real and fictional – from Cleopatra to Shirley Valentine, Lady Macbeth to Lady Bracknell.

There will also be a chance to put your questions to the Ambridge residents as they reveal the secrets of life ‘backstage’ in the village and show you another side to the stars of the nation’s favourite radio drama!


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Tuesday 10 to Saturday 14 September

Henry VIThree PlaysBy William Shakespeare, directed by Nick Bagnall

The Globe Theatre on Tour returns to the Playhouse main stage with a rare opportunity to see the three plays of Henry VI; Shakespeare’s powerful rendering of a country wracked by civil war.

Harry the Sixth follows the death of Henry V, where divisions are appearing around the infant Henry VI.

The Houses of York and Lancaster sees the nobles of England take sides behind Richard Duke of York and King Henry VI, culminating in the first battle of the War of the Roses.

The True Tragedy of the Duke of York is a bloody power struggle between the King’s party, led by the fearsome Queen Margaret, and the Yorkists.

Don’t miss the black comedy and touching pathos that combine in these savagely great History plays.

Show timesShakespeare almost certainly did not set out to write a trilogy. Each play can be enjoyed with or without knowledge of the others.Harry the SixthTue 10 at 7.30pmThu 12 at 2.30pmSat 14 at 12pm The Houses of York and LancasterWed 11 at 2.30pmThu 12 at 7.30pmSat 14 at 3pmThe True Tragedy of the Duke of YorkWed 11 at 7.30pmFri 13 at 8pmSat 14 at 7.30pm

Ticket prices£20 or book a cycle of three shows for £50, discounts £45(Please note, the three performances must be booked at the same time but can be on any day.)

Enjoy! membership £5 off a cycle of three shows

Coming soon, on sale now... Globe Theatre on Tour


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Friday 29 November to Sunday 12 January

Robin HoodWritten and directed by Peter Duncan

Robin Hood is riding into Oxford Playhouse for the very first time in this action-packed new panto. Expect non-stop thrills and spills as Robin and his Merry Men battle the evil Sheriff of Nottingham in this classic show sure to delight all the family.

With a superb cast of your favourite characters, sing-a-long tunes, stunning dancing, slapstick, silliness and lots of chances to join in, it’s going to be the perfect festive entertainment.

So what are you waiting for? It’s never too early to book your tickets, so don’t delay – secure a panto-tastic time for your family today.

The cat’s whiskers…even by the impressive standards achieved at this venue over the years, this is a stand-out Christmas show.HHHHH Oxford Times on Dick Whittington 2012

Brilliant panto this morning. Always great to see tons of kids screaming at baddies and singing along. Such fun! Audience member on Dick Whittington 2012

Oxford Playhouse


Coming soon, on sale now...

Show timesVarious – see the website or call the Ticket Office for more details

Ticket prices£14 to £24.50No booking fee and great rates for groups!Book before 1 Nov 2013 and receive £1 off every ticket

BSL Signed performance Sun 15 Dec at 11am Captioned performanceSat 21 Dec at 7pm Audio described performancesSat 4 Jan at 2pmTouch Tour at 12.30pm

Sun 5 Jan at 4pmTouch Tour at 2.30pm

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Oxford Playhouse at the Burton Taylor Studio

The Burton Taylor Studio is managed by Oxford Playhouse on behalf of the University of Oxford

The Burton Taylor Studio is situated around the corner from Oxford Playhouse on Gloucester Street

COMEDY, DANCE, DRAMA, MUSIC AND POETRY

FAMILYthe very best small-scale professional family shows


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oxford playhouse at the burton taylor studio: april 2013


Saturday 6 April at 11am and 2pmTallulah Swirls Theatre Company When Eggy Met Peggy

What happens when the lonely egg, sat on a wall, meets the sparkling pea from under that huge pile of matresses? Join Eggy and Peggy The Pea in this deliciously funny and original twist on The Princess and The Pea. A feast of delightful puppetry, laughter and a stomping soundtrack to inspire adults and children alike.

Tickets £7.50 children £5.50 Ages 4+

Tuesday 9 and Wednesday 10 April at 7.30pmClare Summerskill presents Well That Explains It!

Let’s talk about sex! Sexual orientation, being single, being married, being gay, bi, lesbian, queer, straight and those who just see themselves as a little bit on the wonky side…

Join Clare Summerskill for everything you’ve ever wanted to know about all these matters but were too afraid to ask. A fast-moving, song-singing, side-splitting evening of comedy and music.

Tickets £8 discounts £6 Ages 14+ contains some strong language

Friday 5 April at 7.30pmMakin’ ProjectsMonkey Poet’s Murder Mystery

Murder Mystery’s riotous opening act takes us on a journey through poetry, suspense and comedy as Monkey Poet shifts characters from Bukowski to Wilde to Shakespeare to Homer, trying to solve a murder whilst wooing Dorothy Parker... In the second act Monkey Poet rips into a multitude of subjects including religion, democracy, homophobia and the day your dad took the stabilisers off the bike.

Tickets £10 discounts £8 Ages 16+

Image: justinstericker.com

Friday 12 April at 7.30pmNick Pynn and Kate Daisy Grant

Nick Pynn and Kate Daisy Grant bring their five-star, multi-award-winning music show to the BT studio for one night only. Featuring Nick ’s instrumental avant-folk masterpieces and Kate’s emotive, quirky pop songs played on an array of toy, folk and homemade instruments, the pair use live looping to create a two-person orchestra.

Tickets £10 discounts £8


oxford playhouse at the burton taylor studio: april 2013

Saturday 13 April 11am and 2pm Bird’s Nest Theatre Blown Away

What if, one windy night a little girl arrives in your bedroom and tells you she’s the wind? A small boy finds himself swept up and whisked away on an unforgettable journey with the wind. Flying through the air with the world so small below them, they feel big, and when you’re big you can do anything at all!

A beautiful and engaging show containing live music, shadow puppetry and movement.

Tickets £7.50 children £5.50 Ages 3 to 5

Thursday 20 June at 11am and 2pm La Baracca-Testoni RagazziSpot

I’m the sun in the yellow, the sea in the blue and the sky in the light-blue, I’m fire in the red... and I turn red when I get excited! I have no feet, no hands and no legs, but I can follow you while you walk... I am Spot and I tell stories.

Spot is a very particular stage light. Its light shines and draws shapes and colours on the floor. A special stage show for very young children using movement, light and sound.

Tickets £7.50 children £5.50 Ages 1 to 4

Wednesday 17 to Saturday 20 April (eves 7.30pm and Sat mat 2.30pm)Polly Ingham Productions, in association with Oxford Playhouse,supported by MCS DramaEngland Streetby Kenneth Emson

Ali and Brennan are on the run. The country is England but not as we know it. In the wake of brutal riots, new laws divide the land. Finding safety in a lifeless factory, the brothers risk everything to celebrate the anniversary of Old England.

A celebration of humanity across borders, this thrilling modern drama is a stark warning for our future.



oxford playhouse at the burton taylor studio: june 2013

Friday 21 and Saturday 22 June at 7.30pmShow and TellMy Robot HeartBy Molly Naylor

Storyteller Molly Naylor joins forces with folk duo The Middle Ones to present this warm and poignant show accompanied by live music. Inspired by experiments into robots and love, My Robot Heart follows three generations of one family before an impending wedding.

Molly returns to Oxford following her acclaimed Friday at 5pm Whenever I Get Blown Up I Think Of You.


Tuesday 25 June at 7.30pmVictoria Melody with Farnham MaltingsMajor Tom

Following her sell-out performances of Northern Soul, Victoria Melody returns to the BT with her story of how an average 34 year-old became a beauty queen and her smelly Basset Hound a championship show dog…

This one woman, one dog show explores the British fascination with celebrities, beauty and winning and follows their adventure as Major Tom heads to Crufts, and Victoria to the Mrs England beauty pageant.


Thursday 27 and Friday 28 June at 7.30pmSTELLABy Siobhán Nicholas

Two women astronomers, Jessica Bell from the 21st century and Caroline Herschel from the 18th century, look up at the same night sky and find themselves colliding in their search for understanding. Each woman can precisely map her position in the universe yet she struggles to find her place in the world.

From Take the Space who brought Hanging Hooke and Dolce Via to the BT.



PRE-SCHOOL CHILDRENMondays 10.30am to 11.15am Until 22 July (no sessions 1 Apr, 8 Apr, 6 May, 27 May, 1 Jul)Top Room, Oxford PlayhouseHey Diddle Diddle

Have you discovered the perfect musical start to the week for you and your pre-school child? Hey Diddle Diddle is a friendly sing-song and play session held weekly at Oxford Playhouse. With complimentary tea and coffee, as well as a chance to stay and play (and explore the big OP toy cupboard!), Hey Diddle Diddle is a fun way to start the week for both parent and child.

This is the only workshop, of all the many different groups I have been to, that captivates the children throughout the session…very well done! Heidi and her daughter, participants.

Tickets £5 for one adult and one pre-school child. £2 for a second child Ages under 5

Monday 8 April 1.30pm to 2.30pmHospitality Room, Oxford PlayhouseOnce Upon a Time

Spend some creative time with your child and share a fairy-tale world of interactive storytelling and activities over a gentle hour with a cup of tea or coffee.

Tickets £5 for one adult to one pre-school child. £2 for a second child Ages 4 to 6

Oxford Playhouse offers a bursary scheme for anyone who wants to take part but needs a hand with fees. This scheme is sponsored by Oxford University Press. For more information email [email protected]


Tuesday 9 April 10am to 4pmTop Room, Oxford PlayhouseShakespeare Explorers

Get to know the language and characters of The Tempest at this workshop on understanding Shakespeare. Led by Heidi Vaughan, participants will delve into this famous play exploring the themes, performance style and individual speeches in this interactive and exciting workshop.

Tickets £25 Ages 8 to 12

Wednesday 29 May 12pm to 1.30pmTop Room, Oxford PlayhouseThe Firework-Maker’s Daughter: An Introduction to the Story

Try your hand at some shadow puppetry as you find out about the story and characters of Philip Pullman’s classic tale. Why not stay on for The Firework-Maker’s Daughter performance at 2.30pm?

Tickets £4.50 Ages 8 to 12

Thursday 4 April 10am to 4pmTop Room, Oxford PlayhouseCommedia Dell’Arte

Comedy King Mark Curtis is back by popular demand with a workshop on Commedia Dell’Arte, one of the earliest forms of comic improvisation. You will have fun using half masks and learn the skills behind the delivery of physical comedy and slapstick. Who knows, there may even be room for some acrobatics... The only thing you need to bring is you and a large amount of silliness!


HOLIDAY WORKSHOPSeaster holiday activities

Friday 12 April 10am to 4pm Top Room, Oxford PlayhouseFinding Your Voice

Young Company Director Jo Noble leads this workshop about script delivery and voice technique. An essential day for anyone studying A-Level Drama or thinking of going to drama school.

Tickets £25 Ages 16+

half term activities

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Thursday 30 May 10am to 4pm Top Room, Oxford PlayhouseStreet DanceJoin Body Politic founder Emma-Jane Greig and learn hip-hop and street dance routines before performing a short piece at the end of the day. A brilliant opportunity to show off your dance moves, be creative and have some fun.


Monday 5 to Friday 9 August Top Room, Oxford PlayhouseAhoy There!

Taking inspiration from classic adventure stories including Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe, spend the week devising your own sea-faring adventure before performing to family and friends on the last day. All aboard me hearties!


Monday 12 to Friday 16 August Burton Taylor StudioRomeo and Juliet

Two young people meet at a party and, in an instant, fall deeply in love. But their love can only battle so long and it’s only a matter of time before they too are consumed in violence…

With detailed work on the text and multi character staging, bring a fast moving, explosive 50-minute adaption of Shakespeare’s greatest love story to life in this week-long drama workshop for all budding actors.


Monday 19 to Friday 23 August Burton Taylor StudioTricks of the Trade: Improvisation and Mask

Do you like to laugh a lot? Do you like to tell stories? Well this man does! Join Mark Curtis for a week-long workshop that will develop your improvisation skills, story-telling abilities and teach you some very clever tricks from the world of improvisation. Come prepared to move around and laugh lots as you build towards a performance to friends and family on the last day.


half term activities continued...

SUMMER WORKSHOPS



OXFORD PLAYHOUSE YOUNG COMPANIESJoin one of our Young Companies with weekly classes and professional guidance from the Oxford Playhouse team. New for this season is our youngest company, 7|10, so if you’re aged between 7 and 22 years, there’s a Young Company that’s right for you…

Monday 15 April to Monday 24 June 5pm to 6.30pmTop Room, Oxford Playhouse7|10 Oxford Playhouse Young Company

7|10’s first term will look at master storyteller Roald Dahl and how to bring his characters and stories to life on stage. It’ll be swishwifflingly good fun!

Places £45 per 9 week term (no sessions 6 and 27 May) Ages 7 to 10

Thursday 25 April to Thursday 27 June 5pm to 7pmTop Room, Oxford Playhouse11|15 Oxford Playhouse Young Company

Improvise! Devise! Perform! Join 11|15 for the summer term and work towards creating an exciting performance for your family and friends.

Places £54 per 9 week term (no session 30 May) Ages 11 to 15

Wednesday 17 April to Wednesday 26 June 5pm to 7pm Top Room, Oxford Playhouse16|22 Oxford Playhouse Young Company

16|22’s summer sessions will focus on script, duologues and working towards a performance at the Burton Taylor Studio on Wednesday 26 June. Why not come and see 16|22’s production of Under Milk Wood on the mainstage on 15 and 16 March and see what you could be doing?

Places £66 per term Ages 16 to 22 16|22 is sponsored by Oxford Theatre Guild and HMG LAW

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Monday 20 to Friday 24 May or Monday 15 to Friday 19 July 10am to 4pmWork Experience at Oxford Playhouse

Working with marketing, fundraising, programming, productions, operations and administration departments, including experience in the Ticket Office and ushering a performance, Oxford Playhouse provides the opportunity for students to gain an insight into the running of a busy theatre from all perspectives.

To apply visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com/takingpart Ages 14 to 16

Wednesday 5 June 4.30pm to 6pmAuditorium, Oxford PlayhouseBlue Remembered Hills Schools’ Workshop

Led by Assistant Director for Northern Stage, Rachel Oliver, this practical workshop will explore the rehearsal process behind the production, including exercises on characterisation, script work and how to tackle the challenge of portraying children on stage. The workshop aims to provide a valuable insight into the play for students studying Dennis Potter, Drama, English, Theatre Studies or Citizenship.

Places £13 per student (includes a ticket to see Blue Remembered Hills Ages 14 to 18 Tue to Thu) One free teacher’s ticket for every 15 students.

SCHOOLS, COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

Wednesday 22 May at 6.30pm Free Teachers’ Night: The Seagull

Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine whilst finding out what’s coming up for schools at Oxford Playhouse, before taking in a performance of Headlong Theatre’s production of Chekhov’s The Seagull.

Tickets Up to two FREE tickets available for each school Please call the Ticket Office to book a place


Sunday 15 September from 12pmTop Room, Oxford PlayhouseAudition for Robin Hood

Are you aged between 8 and 15 and passionate about singing, dancing and acting? Then why not audition for this year’s pantomime, Robin Hood? Each year a group of 20 young people from across Oxfordshire perform as part of the Playhouse pantomime ensemble to over 35,000 people. If selected, you will need to be available for the whole period between Monday 11 November 2013 to Sunday 12 January 2014 for rehearsals and performances.

Places Book your FREE audition place through the Ticket Office Ages 8 to 15 Please note, audition places are limited so early booking is recommended

pantomime young company

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ADULTS & GROUPS


Thursday 21 March, Thursday 25 April and Thursday 23 May 12pm to 2pmSpotlight

Spotlight is a workshop for everyone over 50 offering an in-depth look at theatre. Each sociable and informal session focuses on the show playing on the Playhouse stage that week or an aspect of theatre making, with guest speakers including actors and creative teams behind the shows. No previous experience or theatre knowledge is needed! Why not bring a friend and stay to see the matinee performance in the afternoon?

Tickets £6 (includes sandwiches, tea and coffee)

Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 June, Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October 11am to 5pmWriting Weekends with Matt Hartley

Join critically-acclaimed writer Matt Hartley for a series of weekend workshops designed to help you progress your script or play. Each weekend will look at constructive tools to help conceive and develop ideas. Come with a current project or a completely blank notepad ready to start scribbling! Matt Hartley is an award-winning playwright, currently writing for the RSC and BBC Radio 4.

Tickets £60 per weekend Age 18+

Tuesday 27 to Friday 30 August 10am to 5pm Making Theatre with Out of Joint

Out of Joint presents a practical workshop on devising a new piece of theatre. Participants will work with one of the company’s Associate Directors, exploring rehearsal techniques used by Artistic Director Max Stafford-Clark. Devising, interviewing, improvising, verbatim theatre and action-ing will all be used to create a piece of theatre, providing a unique insight into the working practices of one of the UK’s foremost new writing theatre companies and techniques and ideas to take away for use in your future work.

Tickets £125 Age 17+


Support us and invest in our futureWithout the generous support of our core funders, individual donors, sponsors, volunteers and audiences, Oxford Playhouse would not be here.Thank you for your support!

Each year we entertain over 150,000 people in the main auditorium, over 11,000 in the Burton Taylor Studio, and work with 14,500 people through our Learning team. We produce and tour our own shows, present Playhouse Plays Out shows across the city and county, host artists in residence and show the best touring theatre from the UK and across the world.

At Oxford Playhouse we are passionate about what we do and hope that you are too. By coming to the Playhouse, you help to keep the theatre thriving. If you can, please consider making a gift to support our future. We are a charity and each year we need to raise over £200,000 from charitable sources to support all areas of the theatre – the strong artistic programme, our learning and community work and our listed building.

Oxford Playhouse gratefully acknowledges the support of its core funders:

and support from:

Your gift matched pound for poundNow is an excellent time to support the Playhouse. We are delighted to be receiving matched funding from the Arts Council England’s new Catalyst scheme for the next three years so your gift can be matched pound for pound. This will go towards our artistic programme helping us to develop and tour our own Playhouse productions. Plans include shows for families and young children and Playhouse Plays Out productions which take theatre to unexpected and interesting locations, reaching new audiences across the county.

If you would like to support Oxford Playhouse there are a number of ways you can help:

– Make a gift to our fundraising campaign which you can now do online.

– Set up a regular gift by standing order to provide vital ongoing support.

– Remember Oxford Playhouse in your Will.– Talk to your company about how they can

get involved.

For further details, please look out for our leaflets in the foyer, contact the Development Office on 01865 305315 or [email protected] or visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com/supportus


Platinum: Gold: Silver:

Bronze:

Building Support:

Equipment and Technical Support:

16|22 Young Company Sponsors:Learning and Productions Support:

Trusts:AnonymousCharity of Thomas Dawson CHK Charities LimitedThe Coutts Charitable TrustDoris Field Charitable TrustErnest Cook TrustEsmée Fairbairn FoundationThe Foundation for Sport and the ArtsThe Foyle Foundation

Garfield Weston FoundationThe Helen Roll CharityThe Leche TrustThe Lord Faringdon Charitable TrustThe Ormonde Charitable Trust Mr & Mrs JA Pye’s Charitable SettlementSir Siegmund Warburg’s Voluntary SettlementThe Souldern TrustSt Michael’s and All Saints Charity

A special thank you to all:Patrons, volunteers, trustees and donors

University of Oxford College Members:All Souls CollegeLincoln College

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AccessRead more about the Access facilities available at the Playhouse on page 65.

DiscountsTurn to page 61 to make sure you’re getting any discounts you’re entitled to.

Vouchers and Theatre Tokens Oxford Playhouse vouchers and SOLT Theatre Tokens are available for purchase in person from the Ticket Office and can be used to buy tickets for any performances at the Playhouse.

Staying in touch Follow us on Twitter @OxfordPlayhouse and like us on Facebook.

Tickets OxfordWe sell tickets for many concerts and other events both locally and nationally. This service is available at the Ticket Office, on the phone or online until 4pm on the day of the performance.

Visit www.ticketsoxford.com for further details or follow us on Twitter @TicketsOxford.

Family Friendly Wherever you see this symbol, there is a show or activity designed especially for families. There will be free art activities and games in the circle bar before, during and after the show, special facilities including toddler cushions, toilet steps and seats and a buggy store. There’s a baby change facility on the ground floor and babes in arms are welcome at family shows, but please book a free ticket at the Ticket Office.

Relaxed PerformancesRelaxed performances are aimed at anyone who would benefit from a laid back environment including people with an Autistic Spectrum Condition, a learning disability or very young children who might be afraid of the dark. The atmosphere in the auditorium will be relaxed with the house lights partially on. Audience members will be free to come and go as they please throughout the show and make noise if they want to. The performance on stage will be unchanged.

Made in Oxford These shows have been created here in thecounty, either by Oxford Playhouse or by localartists, amateur and professional.

OPT in!A membership scheme for people aged 16-25 to get free, £5 and £10 theatre tickets, free backstage tours and access to special events. Your OPT in! card also provides discounts for loads of local businesses. OPT in! costs just £1 to join, check out the website for more information www.oxfordplayhouse.com/OPTin! or find us on Facebook, just search ‘OPT in! Oxford Playhouse’.


Useful InformationMake sure you get the most and the best out of your theatre.Please contact the Ticket Office for further information.


How to get to the Playhouse Our Address:Oxford Playhouse Beaumont Street, Oxford OX1 2LW

By Road:

Parking:Parking in Oxford can be expensive. It is often cheaper (and sometimes free after 6.30pm) to park on-street. You will find pay-and-display meters on Broad Street, St. Giles and in Jericho.

Car Parks: Gloucester Green (underground, nearest to the Playhouse), Westgate Shopping Centre, Worcester Street, Abbey Place, Oxpens and Oxford Rail Station.

Park and Ride: Using one of Oxford’s five Park and Ride services is probably the easiest and cheapest way to get around the city. For more information visit: www.parkandride.net

By Train:Oxford rail station is a 10 minute walk from the Playhouse.

By Bus and Coach:The city’s main bus and coach station is a two minute walk away from the Playhouse situated in Gloucester Green.

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Data Protection: When processing your booking Ticket Office staff will ask you your name, address and telephone number. This information is required for administration purposes and may be used to keep you informed of forthcoming events. In the case of sales for other venues you may receive information from the event promoter. We may also pass your details to other carefully selected organisations if you agree. The Oxford Playhouse Trust Ltd is a registered charity and we occasionally contact our audience as part of our fundraising initiatives. Please let us know if you would like to be kept informed about future events, activities and fundraising.

Possible limited view. Please call the Ticket Office for further information.

These seats can be removed to accommodate wheelchairs. Please call the Ticket Office for further information.

Rows A – C are sometimes removed for staging and are therefore not always available – please check with the Ticket Office when booking.

F27

E27

D27

C27

B27

A27

W27

U26 U1

G1 G27 5G 32G

U6 U23

W22

T16 T11

T26

S27

R26

Q27

P26

N27

M26

L27

K26

J27

H26

G26

F25

E25

D24

C23

B22

A21

F1

E1

D1

C1

B1

A1

T1

S1

R1

Q1

P1

N1

M1

L1

K1

J1

H1

G2

F3

E4

D5

C6

B7

A8

FIRST FLOOR

GROUND FLOOR

In personMonday to Saturday 10am to 6pm or until 30 minutes after the start of the evening performance. Sundays and Bank Holidays two hours before the performances.

Oxford Playhouse Booking Fee A £1 booking fee applies to each ticket purchased for Oxford Playhouse shows whether in person at our Ticket Office, or by phone or online. Although it might not be popular, the booking fee is vital to securing the Playhouse’s future. The whole fee is retained by the theatre for its charitable purposes, whereas the majority of the actual ticket price goes to the producer of the show. In order for the theatre to raise the same amount through ticket income, prices would have to rise by approximately £3 per ticket. We have also ensured that there are exemptions to the booking fee and a cap: tickets with a face value of less than £10, Enjoy! tickets, group bookings of 10+ and tickets to Family Friendly shows do not incur a booking fee. Purchase more than five tickets in one transaction and the booking fee is limited to £5.

Waiting listsWaiting lists on the day are available one hour before the performance starts at the Ticket Office. For full details please call 01865 305305

Returns and exchanges Exchanges must be made at least 24 hours before the performance and are subject to conditions at the discretion of the Duty Ticket Office Manager. Please note actual tickets must be returned to the Ticket Office before an exchange can be made. We will be happy to offer a full refund or ticket exchange if we cancel or alter in a material way any performance as advertised. For full Terms and Conditions, see www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Seating Plan


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Discount Group Ticket Price Conditions

Up to 50% off opening Available on up to two tickets, almost every night and Saturday production, for all Enjoy! members. Join the matinees for week-long Enjoy! scheme via the Ticket Office for an shows. Bonus Enjoy! annual fee of £50. Not applicable on tickets discounts of 50% or 25% for The School of Night, Fridays at 5pm, Spot’s Birthday Party, Julian Clary, Reduced Shakespeare Company, The Oxford Revue, The Wizard of Oz, Lord of the Flies, Robin Hood and Playhouse Plays Out. Free 16 to 25 year olds if they are a member of OPT in! £5 and £10 (membership cards £1 from Ticket Office) for subject to availability allocated performances. See page 58 for more information.

Early Bird £3 off each ticket Available for most shows when you book 4 or more productions at the top ticket price before Friday 12 April 2013. Not available online.

In Advance £2 off each ticket Available for most shows on full priced tickets of £11.50 or more for under 18s, over 60s, full-time students, ES40s, BECTU and Equity members.

Access users £9.50 or £12.50 per ticket Available for access facility users, wheelchair users and one companion.

Schools & Colleges £9.50 or £12.50 per ticket An allocation of tickets is available plus one free teacher Monday to Thursday. seat for every 15 seats School tickets for Robin Hood from £11 booked (or £10.50 if booked before Easter 2013)

Party Rate 20% off full priced For all groups of 10 or more. tickets for most Not available online, email lauren.caddick performances @oxfordplayhouse.com for group bookings. Payment must be made as one transaction. Not available for Julian Clary.

Students Standby £9.50 or £12.50 per ticket Best available seats on the day of the (full-time) performance. Book in person at the Ticket with valid photo ID Office. Standby rate available in advance for Life is a Dream and The Oxford Revue and Friends.

Over 60s Standby £11 or £12.50 per ticket Best available seats for all matinee performances bookable during the week of the show. Not available online.

Standby £9.50 or £12.50 per ticket Best available seats on the day of the performance for under 18s, ES40s, BECTU and Equity members for most shows.

Conditions: All discounts are subject to availability and at the discretion of the Duty Ticket Office Manager and may not be available for all shows. Discounted tickets cannot be booked in conjunction with any other reductions or offers. Proof of status is required. Please note that not all discounts are available with online booking.

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Date Day Production Time Venue Access Page

March 11 Mon Jasmin Vardimon Dance Company 7.30pm OP 2 12 Tue The School of Night 7.30pm OP 2 15 Fri Under Milk Wood 8pm OP 3 16 Sat Under Milk Wood 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 3 19 Tue Curiosity Shop 7.30pm OP 3 20 Wed Curiosity Shop 7.30pm OP 3 21 Thu Curiosity Shop 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP (mat) 3 22 Fri Susan Greenfield 5pm OP 42 22 Fri Curiosity Shop 8pm OP 3 23 Sat Curiosity Shop 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP (mat) 3 25 Mon Fences 7.30pm OP 4 26 Tue Fences 7.30pm OP 4 27 Wed Fences 7.30pm OP 4 28 Thu Fences 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 4 29 Fri Fences 8pm OP 4 30 Sat Fences 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 4

April 1 Mon Spot’s Birthday Party 1.30pm OP 42 Tue Spot’s Birthday Party 10.30am, 1.30pm OP 4 3 Wed Spot’s Birthday Party 10.30am, 1.30pm OP 4 5 Fri Rapunzel 7pm OP 5 5 Fri Monkey Poet 7.30pm BT 47 6 Sat When Eggy Met Peggy 11am, 2pm BT 47 6 Sat Rapunzel 2pm, 7pm OP 5 9 Tue The Misanthrope 7.30pm OP 5 9 Tue Well That Explains It! 7.30pm BT 47 10 Wed The Misanthrope 7.30pm OP 5 10 Wed Well That Explains It! 7.30pm BT 47 11 Thu The Misanthrope 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 5 12 Fri The Incredible Book Eating Boy From 12pm Barefoot Books 38 12 Fri Michaela Strachan's Really Wild Adventure 5pm OP 42 12 Fri Nick Pynn and Kate Daisy Grant 7.30pm BT 47 12 Fri The Misanthrope 8pm OP 5 13 Sat Blown Away 11am, 2pm BT 48 13 Sat The Misanthrope 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP (mat) 5 15 Mon Maurice’s Jubilee 7.30pm OP 6 16 Tue Maurice’s Jubilee 7.30pm OP 6 17 Wed Maurice’s Jubilee 7.30pm OP 6 17 Wed England Street 7.30pm BT 48 18 Thu Maurice’s Jubilee 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 6 18 Thu England Street 7.30pm BT 48 19 Fri England Street 7.30pm BT 48 19 Fri Maurice’s Jubilee 8pm OP 6 20 Sat Maurice’s Jubilee 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 6 20 Sat England Street 2.30pm, 7.30pm BT 48 24 Wed Life is a Dream 7.30pm OP 8 25 Thu Life is a Dream 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 8 26 Fri Life is a Dream 8pm OP 8 27 Sat Life is a Dream 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 8

Diary...

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April continued... 30 Tue Richard Alston Dance Company 7.30pm OP 10

May 1 Wed Richard Alston Dance Company 7.30pm OP 10 2 Thu Julian Clary 8pm OP 11 3 Fri Bicycle Boy 4pm Osney Mill Marina 40 3 Fri Reduced Shakespeare Company 8pm OP 12 4 Sat Bicycle Boy 12pm, 4pm Osney Mill Marina 40 4 Sat The Oxford Revue and Friends 7.30pm OP 13 5 Sun Bicycle Boy 11am, 3pm Osney Mill Marina 40 6 Mon Bicycle Boy 11am, 3pm Osney Mill Marina 40 8 Wed The Wizard of Oz 7.30pm OP 14 9 Thu The Wizard of Oz 7.30pm OP 14 10 Fri Bicycle Boy 4pm Osney Mill Marina 40 10 Fri The Wizard of Oz 8pm OP 14 11 Sat Bicycle Boy 12pm, 4pm Osney Mill Marina 40 11 Sat The Wizard of Oz 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 14 12 Sun Bicycle Boy 11am, 3pm Osney Mill Marina 40 14 Tue Less than Kind 7.30pm OP 16 15 Wed Less than Kind 7.30pm OP 16 16 Thu Less than Kind 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 16 17 Fri The Oh F**k Moment 6pm, 8pm St Peter's College 39 17 Fri Less than Kind 8pm OP 16 18 Sat Less than Kind 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 16 21 Tue The Seagull 7.30pm OP 18 22 Wed The Seagull 7.30pm OP 18 23 Thu The Seagull 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP (mat) 18 24 Fri Wicked Women 5pm OP 43 24 Fri The Seagull 8pm OP 18 25 Sat The Seagull 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP (mat) 18 28 Tue The Firework-Maker’s Daughter 7.30pm OP 20 29 Wed The Firework-Maker’s Daughter 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 20 30 Thu Break the Floorboards 7.30pm OP 21 31 Fri Break the Floorboards 7pm OP 21

June 1 Sat Break the Floorboards 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 21 4 Tue Blue Remembered Hills 7.30pm OP 22 5 Wed Blue Remembered Hills 7.30pm OP 22 6 Thu Blue Remembered Hills 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP (mat) 22 7 Fri Blue Remembered Hills 8pm OP 22 8 Sat Blue Remembered Hills 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP (mat) 22 9 Sun Daniel Kitson 8pm OP 39 11 Tue Lionboy 7pm OP 24 12 Wed Lionboy 1pm, 7pm OP 24 13 Thu Lionboy 1pm, 7pm OP 24 14 Fri Lionboy 7pm OP 24 15 Sat Lionboy 2.30pm, 7pm OP (mat) 24

Diary...


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Diary...


June continued... 18 Tue Dancing at Lughnasa 7.30pm OP 26 19 Wed Dancing at Lughnasa 7.30pm OP 26 20 Thu Spot 11am, 2pm BT 48 20 Thu Dancing at Lughnasa 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 26 21 Fri My Robot Heart 7.30pm BT 49 21 Fri Dancing at Lughnasa 8pm OP 26 22 Sat Dancing at Lughnasa 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP 26 22 Sat My Robot Heart 7.30pm BT 49 24 Mon The 39 Steps 7.30pm OP 28 25 Tue The 39 Steps 7.30pm OP 28 25 Tue Major Tom 7.30pm BT 49 26 Wed The 39 Steps 7.30pm OP 28 27 Thu The 39 Steps 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP (mat) 28 27 Thu STELLA 7.30pm BT 49 28 Fri STELLA 7.30pm BT 49 28 Fri The 39 Steps 8pm OP 28 29 Sat The 39 Steps 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP (mat) 28

July 5 Fri Lord of the Flies 7.15pm OP 31 6 Sat Lord of the Flies 3pm, 7.15pm OP 31 7 Sun Lord of the Flies 11am, 3pm OP 31 9 Tue The Taming of the Shrew 7.45pm Bodleian 32 10 Wed The Taming of the Shrew 7.45pm Bodleian 32 11 Thu The Taming of the Shrew 7.45pm Bodleian 32 12 Fri The Taming of the Shrew 7.45pm Bodleian 32 13 Sat The Taming of the Shrew 7.45pm Bodleian 32 14 Sun The Taming of the Shrew 2.30pm, 7.45pm Bodleian 32 16 Tue The Taming of the Shrew 7.45pm Bodleian 32 17 Wed The Taming of the Shrew 7.45pm Bodleian 32 18 Thu The Taming of the Shrew 7.45pm Bodleian 32 19 Fri The Taming of the Shrew 7.45pm Bodleian 32 20 Sat The Taming of the Shrew 3.30pm, 7.45pm Bodleian 32 21 Sun The Taming of the Shrew 2.30pm, 7.45pm Bodleian 32 23 Tue James and the Giant Peach 7pm OP 34 24 Wed James and the Giant Peach 2pm, 7pm OP 34 25 Thu James and the Giant Peach 2pm, 7pm OP 34 26 Fri James and the Giant Peach 2pm, 7pm OP 34 27 Sat James and the Giant Peach 10.30am, 2pm OP (2pm) 34 29 Mon The Pitmen Painters 7.30pm OP 36 30 Tue The Pitmen Painters 7.30pm OP 36 31 Wed The Pitmen Painters 7.30pm OP 36

August 1 Thu The Pitmen Painters 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP (mat) 36 2 Fri The Pitmen Painters 8pm OP 36 3 Sat The Pitmen Painters 2.30pm, 7.30pm OP (mat) 36

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AccessFacilitiesOxford Playhouse offers a range of facilities for audience members with access requirements, including level access to the auditorium, low level counters at the Ticket Office and bar, wheelchair spaces (stalls: end of rows E & L and centre of row T), audio described, captioned and signed performances. Look out for these symbols on the show pages of this Guide.

Captioned and signed performances are excellent for people who are deaf, deafened and hard of hearing. Captioned performances may also be of interest for those whose first language isn’t English and for anyone who finds it helpful to follow the text during a show.

Audio described performances are designed for blind or partially sighted audience members. Via headphones, a live narrator describes the action in the pauses between the onstage dialogue. Touch tours accompany audio described performances.

The auditorium has a Sennheiser infrared system for audience members who are hard of hearing. Please ask the Ticket Office at the time of booking to advise you on the best places to sit for using the Sennheiser headsets within the auditorium.

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Look out for our next seasonAugust 2013 to January 2014On sale June 2013

Did you know…• that last year Oxford Playhouse produced and co-produced 11 new productions?

Keep an eye out for Oxford Playhouse’s own shows coming this year including Bicycle Boy, Tea Time, Lionboy and many more…

• that you could be saving £££s by becoming an Enjoy! member? Ask at the Ticket Office about how to save 50% or 25% off most productions.

• that you can hire rooms at the Playhouse for your reception, meeting or event? With an accessible location at the heart of Oxford, spaces that accommodate 10 to 80 people and hospitality packages to suit all needs, why not consider OP for your next gathering – whether business or pleasure. Visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com/roomhires for more info

• that over 35,000 people came to see Oxford Playhouse’s Christmas panto, Dick Whittington? Book before November and save £1 off every ticket for this year’s cracking Christmas show, Robin Hood…

Beaumont Street, Oxford OX1 2LW Registered Company No. 2397373 Registered Charity No: 900039 VAT No. 537166534

Oxford Playhouse gratefully acknowledges the support of its core funders:

Design: www.uniform.net

Oxford Playhouse can provide this brochure in alternative formats including audio and large print. Please contact Hester Bond on 01865 305334 or at [email protected]

Oxford Playhouse Season Brochure March to August 2013

Documents

Transcript of Oxford Playhouse Season Brochure March to August 2013