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TCHAIKOVSKY
GALA
- Mon 26th Dec 2005 - 7.30pm - The Bridgewater Hall |
| The best-loved music
of Tchaikovsky, the greatest Russian romantic composer, with the
fiery 1812 Overture as an explosive finale.
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MAGIC OF GILBERT
AND SULLIVAN
- Tue 27th Dec 2005 - 3pm - Bridgewater |
| No further details
as yet....
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LAST NIGHT OF
THE CHRISTMAS PROMS
- Tue 27th Dec 2005 - 7.30pm |
| At The Bridgewater
Hall: SUPPÉ Light Cavalry Overture, SAINT-SAËNS Danse
Macabre, HUMPERDINCK Hansel and Gretel Overture, VERDI La donna
è mobile, TCHAIKOVSKY Polonaise from Eugene Onegin, BIZET
The Pearlfishers Duet, STRAUSS Champagne Polka, PONCHIELLI Dance
of the Hours, ROSSINI Largo al Factotum
from The Barber of Seville, WALDTEUFEL The Skaters' Waltz, DELIBES
Pizzicati from Sylvia.
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OPERA GALA NIGHT
-
Wed 28th Dec 2005 - At the Bridgewater Hall |
| Three distinguished
soloists, GWYN HUGHES JONES tenor, JANIS KELLY
soprano and DAVID KEMPSTER baritone, perform favourite arias from
the world's best-loved operas. Rigoletto, A Masked Ball, La Traviata,
Nabucco, Aida, Il Trovatore, Faust, La Boheme, Manon Lescaut,
Tosco, Turandot, Madam Butterfly, The Pearl Fishers and Carmen.
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NEW YEAR'S EVE
AT THE ITALIAN OPERA -
Sat 31st Dec 2005 - Bridgewater |
| Music inlcudes arias
and music by Verdi, Mascagni, Rossini and Puccini from La forza
del destino, Il trovatore, Rigoletto, La traviata, Aida, Tosca,
Madame Butterfly, La bohème and Turandot. The evening performers
are Manchester Camerata, Douglas Boyd (conductor), Stephanie Hughes
(presenter), Claire Rutter (soprano), John Hudson (tenor) and
St George's Singers.
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NEW YEAR'S DAY
VIENNESE GALA -
Sun 1st Jan 2006 - 3pm - Bridgewater Hall |
| Waltzes and polkas
by J Strauss II, Suppé and Lehár
Manchester Camerata
Nicholas Kraemer conductor
Sarah Tynan soprano
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NEW YEAR'S DAY
PROM -
Sun 1st Jan 2006 - 7.30pm - Bridgewater Hall |
| Welcome the New
Year with this irresistible mix of fun and rousing classics.TCHAIKOVSKY
Swan Lake Finale, OFFENBACH Barcarolle, ROSSINI Largo al factotum,
BIZET The Pearlfishers Duet, ROSSINI William Tell Overture,
GRIEG Morning and In the Hall of the Mountain King, RAVEL Bolero,
STRAUSS Die Fledermaus Overture, SOUSA The Stars and Stripes Forever,
VERDI Prelude to Act I from La Traviata, SULLIVAN We're called
Gondolieri....and in true proms tradition: The Dam Busters March,
Land of Hope and Glory, Jerusalem, Hornpipe Rule, Britannia! Nessun
dorma.
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GLENN MILLER
ORCHESTRA -
Sun 8th Jan 2006 - 3pm & 7.30pm - Bridgewater |
| Swinging back to
Manchester with two foot stomping shows this incomparable band
plays classic Glenn Miller hits from the forties and wartime chart
toppers including: Moonlight Serenade, Running Wild, Tuxedo Junction,
Adios, Jukebox Saturday Night, In The Mood. Directed by Ray McVay
with a special tribute to Sammy Davis Jr. and Judy Garland. Special
guests: Jan Messeder, Colin Anthony, The Uptown Hall Gang, and
The Moonlight Serenaders. |
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WHAT EVERY WOMAN
KNOWS
- Tue 10th Jan to Sat 25th Feb 2006 |
| At The Royal Exchange:
From the wilds of Scotland to the centre of the civilised world,
Maggie's wit and intelligence are a match for the politicians. In
fact, her men folk don't realise just how clever she is. A hundred
years ago, somewhere in Scotland, the Wylie family discover a burglar,
who wants more than riches and keeps coming back without taking
anything. Attempts to protect their plain sister, Maggie, lead to
an adventure in politics, love and the discovery that Maggie can
more than look after. |
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GAGA -
Thu 12th Jan 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| From playing at the
International Queen Convention to appearing in a recent BBC documentary,
GA GA continue to prove why they are so highly rated by critics
and audiences alike. There are no wigs, no make-up and definitely
no false moustaches but instead a host of massive Queen songs played
like they were meant to be. Described by Brian May as "Superb". |
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THE SLEEPING
BEAUTY -
Wed 18th January to Sat 21st January 2006 |
| At The Lowry Theatre:
Birmingham Royal Ballet presents The Sleeping Beauty. Shunned on
christening day, wicked fairy Carabosse casts a deadly curse on
baby Princess Aurora. But the Lilac Fairy tempers that curse, so
that, years later, when it begins to take hold, the Princess doesn’t
die but instead falls into a deep sleep. Year after year the palace
rests, until the handsome prince, hunting in the forest 100 years
later, shows how a curse can become a charm. With Tchaikovsky’s
wonderful score, classical choreography by Marius Petipa, production
by Sir Peter Wright and a romantic finale packed with fairytale
cameos, BRB’s brilliantly spectacular The Sleeping Beauty
is as engaging now as when she first fell asleep, over a hundred
years ago. There are 2 shows on Thu & Sat. |
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GEORGE'S MARVELLOUS
MEDICINE -
Tue 24th Jan to Sun 29th Jan 2006 |
The Palace Theatre:
George lives on a farm with only his parents and his grumpy old
Grandma for company. One day, Grandma’s moaning becomes
too much for poor George, and he decides to teach her a lesson
she’ll never forget. George mixes up a magic and mysterious
potion and gives it to his Grandma in place of her usual medicine.
That’s where the fun really starts! A huge favourite with
children and ‘big kids’ across the world, George’s
Marvellous Medicine is a wonderful example of Roald Dahl, one
of the master storytellers of all time, at his entrancing best.
A magical and mischievous story, George’s Marvellous Medicine
was a must-see treat in the festive season. |
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SNOW QUEEN -
Tue 24th Jan to Sun 29th Jan 2006 - The Opera House |
Listen! Once there
was a wicked demon who made a great mirror of magic that shattered
into a thousand splinters. Once there were two best friends, little
Gerda and Kay who got a sliver in his eye that turned his heart
to ice. The Snow Queen flies him far away into her Snow Kingdom.
Will Gerda rescue Kay? Join their spellbinding adventures in this
enchanting entertainment for all the family. Visually sumptuous
with a star cast, this is a fantastic treat. This sparkling, interactive
production will host a highly professional cast of actors, singers
and dancers together with spectacular special effects, dazzling
costumes, top quality lighting and sets. Unmissable! |
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KATIE MELUA
-
Fri 27th January 2006 - The M.E.N. Arena |
| Young jazz and blues
singer/songwriter Katie Melua has such an advanced state of lyrical
maturity and worldliness that it is hard to believe that she isn't
middle-aged. She says that she feels like a 22 year-old, but she
acts like a teenager.... |
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ANYTHING
GOES -
Fri 27th January to Sat 4th February 2006 - The Lowry |
| Music and lyrics by
Cole Porter Direct from the golden age of American musical comedy,
Anything Goes is a dazzling, high-energy production packed with
classic songs including: You’re the Top, It’s De-Lovely,
Anything Goes, I Get a Kick Out of You and Blow, Gabriel, Blow.
A transatlantic luxury liner is heading for England with lovesick
stowaway Billy Crocker, who is pursuing Hope Harcourt, the debutante
fiancée of English aristocrat Lord Oakleigh. A collection
of other unlikely characters - including Moonface Martin, the raunchy
Reno Sweeny and a smattering of slow-witted FBI agents - add high
farce to the romance. Based on an original story by P G Wodehouse,
the script was skillfully re-worked for its recent National Theatre
and Drury Lane hit seasons and is brought to you from the team that
produced the West End hit High Society. But above all, it’s
Cole Porter’s brilliant, tune-filled, dance-peppered score
that makes this such wonderfully memorable entertainment. |
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THE WATERBOYS
- Karma to Burn Tour -
Sun 29th Jan 2006 - Bridgewater |
| The brilliant Mike
Scott and the Waterboys are in Manchester for one night only so
book your tickets early to save disappointment. |
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MARY SHELLEY'S
FRANKENSTEIN -
Tue 31st Jan to Sat 4th Feb 2006 |
The Palace Theatre:
Mary Shelley, Lord Byron, Percy Byshe Shelley - A Tangled Triangle
of Love in the mountains above Lake Geneva gives birth to a tragic
monster of the mind. Mary and her lover Percy Byshe Shelley fled
the scandal surrounding their scandalous love affair to Geneva
and set up home in the company of Lord Byron. This was a period
of freak storms and as the weather worsened Byron proposed a ghost-story
contest to while away the hours. From this the story of Frankenstein
evolves. The creature's hopes, fears and torments mirrors own
love and rejection "the ghostly image of my fantasy". |
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LORD OF THE
DANCE -
Tue 31st Jan to Sun 5th Feb 2006 - The Opera House |
Michael Flatley's
theatrical extravaganza that helped catapult Irish dancing into
the global spotlight. Featuring over 40 dancers, the sure-fire
sell-out mixes contemporary and traditional Irish music and dance. |
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HOLIDAY ON ICE
- DIAMONDS
- Thu 2nd Feb to Sun 5th Feb 2006 - M.E.N. |
| Diamonds is a show brimming
with action and adventure. The audience is taken on a spectacular
story of pursuit, in which fantasy-like scenes flow one after the
other and melt together into one storyline and theme. The music
will stir the imagination with a traditional Charleston to Pink
Floyd and from Coolio to Michael Jackson and Shakira. Diamonds allows
the audience to dream away reality and identify with one of the
many artistic characters who strut over the cool ice in fantastic
costumes. Truly an effervescent show, for young and old! |
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THE MIGHTY BOOSH
-
Sun 5th February 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| Following on from their
triumphant second BBC Three series, Mighty Boosh’s Noel (Fielding)
and Julian (Barratt) have chosen to meet their audience face to
face and challenge them to a ferret duel. It’s an off-the-wall
adventure based on their Perrier Award-winning comedy show, with
zoo workers Vince and Howard again called upon to put their jobs
before their pride! |
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TONIGHT'S
THE NIGHT - THE ROD STEWART MUSICAL
- Mon 6th Feb to Sat 11th Feb - The Opera House |
Written by award-winning
dramatist Ben Elton and featuring over twenty of the greatest
hits of Rod Stewart, Tonight's The Night is musical comedy at
its all-singing, all-dancing rip-roaring best. Packed with hilarious
gags, spectacularly staged numbers and the unforgettable songs
that five generations fell in love to and made love to. |
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BEN ELTON -
Sat 11th Feb 2006 - The Palace Theatre |
Benjamin Charles
Elton was already a successful stand-up comedian when he began
writing sit-coms. The alternative comedy movement of the 1980s
provided the perfect home for his anti-Thatcher material, (Oooh!
Little bit of politics there) and he made regular sparkly-suited
appearances on the legendary Saturday and Friday Night Live. His
rapid-fire delivery meant he got through twice the material of
others, and stopped hecklers in their tracks. His first sit-com
credit was as co-writer of the classic The Young Ones. He then
went on to co-write Blackadder II, Blackadder the Third and Blackadder
Goes Forth with Richard Curtis. Many say that Elton and Curtis
took a rough diamond and fashioned a gem. |
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OVER THE RAINBOW
- THE EVA CASSIDY STORY -
Sun 12th Feb 2006 |
The Show which has
received standing ovations all over the UK. A dramatic, moving
Musical Play telling the life story of Eva Cassidy, incorporating
over 25 of her arrangements including: Fields of Gold, Songbird
and Over the Rainbow… performed by West End artists. This
Musical pays a genuine and heartfelt homage to a true Artist who
was not interested in fame and fortune, but wanted nothing more
than to create beautiful music. More than a life story, this show
is for anyone who’s lost someone they love. |
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THE NUTCRACKER
(Ellen Kent Ballet) -
Mon 13th Feb to Sat 18th Feb 2006 |
At The Opera House:
It is Christmas Day in a small town in Germany. At the Stahlbaum's
house, guests are gathering for a party. Drosselmeyer, who is
godfather to the children Fritz and Marie, is bringing a magnificent
present: Nutcracker, a doll who can crack nuts. This classic ballet
is performed to the highest of standards and is very popular so
book early to avoid disappointment. |
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FOOTLOOSE -
THE MUSICAL -
Mon 13th Feb to Sat 18th Feb 2006 - The Palace |
Footloose The Musical
tells the story of the city boy, Ren, who has to move to a small
town where dancing is banned. All hell breaks out as Ren breaks
loose and soon has the whole town on its feet. Featuring the hottest
talent around, this fast paced show is packed full of amazing
dance and classc 80's hits, including 'Out For A Hero', 'Almost
Paradise', 'Let's Hear It For The Boy', and of course, the unforgettable
title track, 'Footloose'.. |
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2000 YEARS
-
Tue 14th February to Sat 18th February 2006 - The Lowry |
| The latest hit play
from Salford-born Mike Leigh. Two Thousand Years touches upon the
lives and relationships of three generations in a contemporary Jewish
middle-class family. In his first stage play for over a decade,
Mike Leigh explores, in a gentle tragi-comic way, a wide range of
issues including politics, religion, identity and the vexed question
of Israel and the Middle East. Leigh’s many stage plays include,
most famously, the big seventies hit, Abigail’s Party. His
films include Naked, Secrets & Lies, Topsy-Turvy, All or Nothing
and Vera Drake. Two Thousand Years sold out its entire London run
months before the premiere and the reviews have been raves, so early
booking here is essential. |
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MOSCOW STATE
CIRCUS -
Thu 16th February to Sun 19th February 2006 |
| The Lowry Theatre: A
brand new show, featuring 35 of Russia's greatest circus performers
pushing the boundaries of human physical ingenuity to their very
limits. Among the most breathtaking of acts are The Slavos, a springboard
group brimming with talent and raw energy, and The Andrey Mikheev
troupe, with their dizzy display of aerial gymnastics. Bakhrom Akhnazarov,
Russia’s strongest man, pushes and pulls with Herculean strength
and panache, while The Bugrova Sisters balance on numerous cylinders,
with the juggling Veronica perched perilously on top. With the amazing
flying ballet of Natalia Egorova and award-winning clowning of Igor
Vorob'ev and Andrey Mashonkin, this truly is one of the greatest
shows on earth! |
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EDWARD SCISSORHANDS
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Tue 21st February to Sat 25th February 2006 |
| At The Lowry Theatre:
Matthew Bourne and his hugely popular New Adventures company are
back with a magical new adaptation of the classic Tim Burton film,
Edward Scissorhands. A fairytale for all the family, it tells the
story of a boy created by an eccentric inventor - a boy with only
scissors for hands. After his creator dies however, Edward is forced
to live among the local community. Will the suspicious townsfolk
drive him from their beloved Hope Springs or will his gentleness,
awkward charm and incredible topiary skills win their hearts. Edward
Scissorhands features music by Danny Elfman, who has worked with
Tim Burton on numerous films including Batman, Big Fish and 2005’s
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. There are 2 shows on Wednesday
and Saturday. Please note that this is a ballet/dance/musical piece
rather than a play! |
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JASON AND
THE ARGONAUTS -
Tue 21st February to Sat 25th February 2006 |
| At The Lowry Theatre:
It’s the trip of a lifetime - and you’re invited! In
this epic tale of gods, men and monsters, a reluctant hero is sent
on a seemingly impossible quest. Under the watchful eyes and playful
hands of the gods, Jason and his intrepid crew face countless perils
in their search for the Golden Fleece. Prepare to enter uncharted
waters, with no guarantee of return. Get ready to face clashing
rocks, low-flying harpies, fire-breathing bulls and the deadly sweet
music of the sirens. This thrilling family show features a cast
of twelve, inventive storytelling, exciting audience participation
and a wonderfully amusing script. Most suitable for ages 7+.
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THE X-FACTOR
TOUR -
Sat 25th February 2006 - The M.E.N. Arena |
| Enjoy watching the finalist
of the ITV series the X-Factor on stage. |
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EAST IS EAST
-
Tue 28th Feb to Sat 4th Mar 2006 - At The Lowry Theatre |
Set in Salford in
1970, this masterful, award-winning comedy tracks the divergent
lives of the Khan family as they struggle to establish their own
identities in the rough and tumble world of mixed cultural backgrounds.
Daily chaos erupts in the Khan’s cramped Salford terrace
as George Khan (known as Ghengis to his family) tries to assert
his traditional values over his increasingly independent kids.
In the process, he succeeds in pushing the temperature in the
living room as high as the deep fat fryer in the family fish and
chip shop! Meanwhile, beleaguered Mum, Ella - George’s British
wife – battles to keep the family from coming apart at the
seams. Contains some strong language.
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I KEANO -
Tue 28th Feb to Sat 11th Mar 2006 - At The Lowry Theatre |
An ancient federation
sends a legion, led by the stubbon General Macartacus, to an island
to prepare for a momentous war. Their greatest warrior, Keano,
has a passion for perfection exceeded only by his fierce and unpredictable
temper (sound familiar yet?) The problems start when Keano arrives
to prepare for battle…the ground is too hard, the troops
are partying and the Federation has forgotten to bring any daggers
and tunics. What should Keano do? He is torn between the conflicting
advice of the Scottish dolphin god Fergie and the tap-dancing
wood nymph Dunpia. There's
a tragedy unfolding... and in togas too! |
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THE OSMONDS
-
Fri 3rd March 2006 - The Apollo |
| A sibling pop group
who blasted their way to success in the early 1970s and went on
to sell over 77 million records. Now the band is back, featuring
Wayne, Merrill, Jay and Jimmy. |
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LA BOHEME (Ellen
Kent Opera) -
Tue 7th Mar to Sat 11th Mar 2006 |
At The Opera House:
The painter, Marcello, and the writer, Rodolfo, share a Parisian
garret studio. It is Christmas Eve and both young men are poor
and cold. Soon they are joined by two more Bohemian acquaintances
- the philosopher, Colline, and the musician, Schaunard. The latter
has recently earned a little money and so the friends decide to
go off and celebrate in the Latin Quarter, first, skillfully avoiding
paying rent to the landlord, Benoit. |
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LITTLE BRITAIN
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Mon 13th Mar and Sat 18th Mar 2006 - The Apollo |
| The hilarious comedy
duo behind the BAFTA Award-winning BBC comedy show, Little Britain.
Matt Lucas made his name as George Doors, the hyperactive man-baby
on the Reeves and Mortimer game-show, drumming insane rhythms and
hollering out the end of round scores. He then went on to create
and star in the spoof interview show Rock Profiles with David Walliams.
The pair enjoyed a cult following before they found a big time ratings-grabber
with Little Britain, a series of character sketches lampooning the
eccentricity of the inhabitants of the UK. The first series was
a digital TV smash-hit, and repeated the success when it transferred
to terrestrial television. In late 2004, the first programme from
the second series pulled in nearly 2m viewers, a record for BBC3.
Building on the show's enduring appeal, they have now decided to
take to the idea on to the stage. The show marks their first live
work together since 1997. |
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THE GRAND INQUISITOR
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Thu 16th March to Sat 18th March 2006 - The Lowry |
| One of the world's greatest
theatre directors, Peter Brook, returns to The Lowry with a production
premiered at his company’s Paris theatre last autumn. The
action takes place in Seville during the Inquisition. In his infinite
mercy, Christ returns to the world and enters the burning streets
of the city, where, the previous day, a hundred heretics were sent
into the flames. The cardinal Grand Inquisitor sees Him and his
face darkens as he orders the guards to seize Christ and shut Him
in a narrow vaulted cell. In the darkness, suddenly, the iron door
opens and the Grand Inquisitor quietly enters. For a long moment,
he stays in the doorway, studying the Holy face. Then he draws nearer,
saying : “Is it You? You?" This is sure to be a highlight
of 2006 so early booking is advised. |
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THE HOLLIES
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Fri 17th March 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| Just two headlines from
the many rave reviews from the Hollies recent British tour. It proves
The Hollies are as popular today as they were four decades ago in
the 60s when they were only just behind The Beatles in single sales. |
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HI-5 -
Sat 18th March & Sun 19th March 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| Hi-5 – Australia’s
record-breaking children’s TV phenomenon – are back
with an all new show. Their last UK smash hit tour proved a sell-out
wherever they went, so book early for this one! The sunshine phenomenon
from Down Under features all new songs and dances for you to learn.
See TV stars Kathleen, Nathan, Charli, Tim and Kellie live on stage
in a high-energy fun-packed show that all the family will enjoy.
Saturday shows at 11am, 1.30pm and 4pm. Sunday shows at 11am and
1.30pm. |
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THE RIVALS
- Mon 20th March to Sat 25th Mar 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| Starring Stephanie Cole
and George Baker. With a starry cast and an acclaimed director at
the helm, this promises to be a really special revival of this brilliant
classic English comedy. Set in 18th century Bath, this delightful
romp introduces Mrs Malaprop, one of the funniest misusers of words
in the English language. She is determined to match her headstrong
niece Lydia with a husband of her own choosing. But Lydia has fallen
in love with lowly soldier, Beverley. Mrs Malaprop is played by
Stephanie Cole, one of Britain’s favourite actresses. Sir
Anthony, Beverley’s father, is played by George Baker, best
known for his enormously popular Inspector Wexford in The Ruth Rendell
Mysteries! |
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JERRY SPRINGER
THE OPERA -
Mon 20th March to Sat 1st April 2006 |
At The Opera House:
The smash-hit multi-award winning musical, which opened to unprecedented
rave reviews and standing ovations at the National Theatre, is
about to embark on a National Tour, direct from its sell out run
in the West End. This is your only chance to see the funniest,
most groundbreaking and talked about musical ever, including members
of the original West End cast. The show created history by winning
all four Best Musical awards (Olivier, Evening Standard, Critics’
Circle and What’s On Stage) and three further Olivier Awards.
Heard about it? Read about it? Buy a ticket for the must-see show
of the year. |
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CHITTY CHITTY
BANG BANG -
Mon 20th Mar to Sat 10th June 2006 - The Palace |
Direct from the West
End, the London Palladium Production of CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG
kicks off in Manchester on Monday 20th March 2006 and runs for
four months at the Palace Theatre. Follow the enthralling adventures
of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, the magical car, as it sails the seas
and flies through the air bringing back a host of memories. Join
Chitty's eccentric inventor, Caractacus Potts and his enchanting
children Jemima and Jeremy, together with Truly Scrumptious and
batty Grandpa Potts as they try to outwit the dastardly Baron
and the evil Child Catcher in this non-stop adventure for all
ages. Please note that on Wednesdays and Saturdays, there are
two performances (2.30pm and 7.30pm). There are no Sunday performances
throughout the production. PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE ARE NO CONCESSIONS
FOR CHILDREN FOR THIS SHOW.
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SUGABABES
-
Sat 25th March 2006 - The Apollo |
| Three-piece all-girl
pop sensations who were all under 17 when they first hit the charts
with their No1 chart smash reworking of the Gary Numan classic Freak
Like Me, which also earned the sassy trio a Q Award for Best Single.
Since then, Mutya, Keisha and Heidi have taken the pop world by
storm with a top 5 platinum album Angels With Dirty Faces. |
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TRAINSPOTTING
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Mon 27th March to Sat 1st April 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| 10th Anniversary production.
It’s back, the play that shocked the nineties! The shockingly
funny cult play that inspired the sensational movie returns to the
stage. Friends Renton, Sick Boy, Spud and Begbie, embark on a horrific
journey to the heart of a hell-hole world peopled by psychos, junkies,
wide-boys and no-hopers. Hilarious but harrowing, Trainspotting
charts the disintegration of their friendship as they hurtle towards
self-destruction on a drug fuelled roller coaster ride through the
streets, pubs and darkest recesses of Edinburgh low-life. Contains
strong language and nudity. Most suitable for ages 16+. |
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CHRIS REA
-
Thu 30th March 2006 - The Apollo |
| Unshaven soft rock singer/songwriter,
whose 'Road To Hell' relaunched a career which has gone from strength
to strength. After fighting off a major illness during much of 2002,
expect Chris' career to go down a far brighter road in the future. |
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BB KING &
GARY MOORE -
Fri 31st March 2006 - M.E.N Arena |
| Universally hailed as
the reigning king of the blues, B.B King, who recently celebrated
his 80th birthday, has announced his last ever UK tour, with five
ultra-rare dates in March and April 2006. BB King: Legends don't
come any bigger than 'The King of the Blues'. In 2001 he celebrated
50 years of recording and over 50 album releases. He has 7 Grammys
including a Lifetime Achievement award. His innovative blend of
gospel, jazz and deep delta blues influenced two generations of
rock and blues guitarists. Gary Moore: Masterful blues and rock
guitarist formerly of Skid Row, Thin Lizzy, Colosseum II and G Force,
Gary has been heading his own band since the early 1990s. |
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BOLSHOI BALLET
- SPARTACUS -
Tue 4th April & Wed 5th April 2006 |
| At The Lowry Theatre:
Universally regarded as the supreme Russian ballet company, the
Bolshoi make their first visit to The Lowry to perform Spartacus
and Swan Lake. The spectacular Spartacus is a Bolshoi blockbuster,
using the considerable size and power of the full company, with
epic staging and showbiz dramatics that give the men in particular
opportunity for maximum impact. It tells the true story of a slave
rebellion against the corrupt Roman Empire. Spartacus and his saintly
suffering wife Phrygia, are brought to Rome by the depraved Roman
general Crassus. Spartacus then incites his fellow slaves to revolt
against their oppressors, but is eventually killed by his enemies.
This very special visit is undoubtedly one of the highlights of
2006 and early booking is strongly advised. |
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THE CUT -
Tue 4th April to Sat 8th April 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| A thrilling new play
by Mark Ravenhill, whose previous work includes Mother Clap's Molly
House, Some Explicit Polaroids and Shopping and F***ing. Paul is
an ordinary man with a shocking secret. At home, he is a loving
husband and father. At work, he administers the cut. In a society
sickened by his profession, Paul struggles with his conscience and
longs to tell the truth. Starring Bolton-born Sir Ian McKellen,
in his first North West stage appearance for many years (following
a career that has embraced everything from Lord Of The Rings to
Coronation Street), this is clearly an unmissable event. |
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BOLSHOI BALLET
- SWAN LAKE -
Thu 6th April to Sat 8th April 2006 |
| At The Lowry Theatre:
Universally regarded as the supreme Russian ballet company, the
Bolshoi make their first visit to The Lowry to perform Swan Lake
and Spartacus. Their outstanding adaptation of Swan Lake –
with its classic tale of a spellbound princess transformed into
a white swan by an evil magician - expresses all the lyricism, drama
and magic beloved of ballet audiences the world over and has the
backing of Tchaikovsky’s wonderful score, played here by the
Bolshoi’s very own award-winning orchestra. This very special
visit is undoubtedly one of the highlights of 2006 and early booking
is strongly advised. |
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IL DIVO -
Sun 9th April 2006 - M.E.N Arena |
| In 2001, an idea was
conceived for a mould breaking quartet: 4 exceptional young men
with formally trained voices who could take popular songs, old and
new, to another level where the historic rift between pop and classical
music is finally healed. The band were born in December 2003 after
a worldwide search and christened Il Divo- an Italian word meaning
'Divine Performer - or a male Diva'. Their multi-national identity
reflects the universal appeal of the music. |
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CHRISTY MOORE
-
Thu 13th April & Fri 14th April 2006 - Bridgewater Hall |
| Legendary Irish
folk singer songwriter and bodram player. Founder of classic folk
band Planxty, occasional member of folk 'supergroup' Moving Hearts,
and one of the best songwriters Ireland has ever produced. 'Truly
the Bob Dylan of Irish music.' |
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CURTIS STIGERS
-
Tue 18th April 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| Curtis Stigers shot
to international fame with hits I Wonder Why and You're All That
Matters To Me. In recent years Curtis has established himself at
the forefront of a new generation of jazz singers. With one of the
most distinctive voices in music, the singer/saxophonist/songwriter
pushes the boundaries of conventional jazz performers and expands
the jazz repertory creating modern jazz standards. Stigers’s
latest release, I Think It’s Going to Rain Today, is a new
collection of songs by some of the greatest and most influential
songwriters of our time. Putting his unique mark on tunes by Sting,
Randy Newman, Mose Allison, Willie Nelson and Tom Waits, as well
as two new Stigers originals, Curtis continues to blaze a path as
one of his generation’s finest and most original interpreters
of modern songs. Curtis’s 2003 release for Concord Record’s
You Inspire Me was voted Sunday Times Jazz CD of the Year. |
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SING-A-LONG-A-ELVIS
-
Fri 21st April 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| Join The King in the
ultimate Sing-a-long-a experience! This latest Sing-a-long-a celebrates
the songs of the one and only king of rock ‘n’ roll.
Includes all the best-loved sing-a-long-a traditions: the dancing
competition, the choral warm-up, crazy magic moments with the help
of your complimentary fun-filled goody bag and, of course, on-screen
lyrics so you can join in every song. |
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SING-A-LONG-A-ANNIE
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Sat 22nd April 2006 - 1.30pm - The Lowry Theatre |
| From the producers of
the smash hits Sing-a-long-a Sound of Music and Sing-a-long-a Joseph,
comes Sing-a-long-a Annie, continuing the tradition of irresistible
interactive fun, with a screening - subtitled so everyone can join
in - of the 1982 hit film starring Albert Finney, Tim Curry, Carol
Burnett, a whole orphanage full of sweet little girls and a cute
doggy. |
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SING-A-LONG-A-ABBA
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Sat 22nd April 2006 - 7.30pm - The Lowry Theatre |
| The Swedish super-group’s
greatest hits performed live, with on-screen lyrics so everyone
can join in! Dancing Queen competition, free Magic Moment goody
bags for all and our fantastic Sing-a-long-a singers performing
hit after hit. It’s the perfect night out for hen parties,
family groups, office outings and anyone who has strutted their
stuff to Abba on the dance floor! |
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DARA O'BRIAIN
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Sun 23rd April 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| After Have
I Got News For You, Last Laugh and Mock The Week, he’s back
live on stage and partly inspired by his appearance on the BBC’s
Room 101, which got him thinking about why it’s so much fun
to talk about the things we hate rather than those we love! Also
expect the usual stew of ideas, flung at the audience at breakneck
pace. |
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BUDDY -
Mon 24th April to Sat 29th April 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| One of the most successful
musicals of all time returns for a new generation to enjoy. On 3
February 1959, the genius that was Buddy Holly was tragically killed
in a plane crash. Aged just 22, he nevertheless left behind a legacy
of over 30 timeless hits. Buddy tells his story, presents his music
and features some of his greatest hits, including That’ll
be the Day, Peggy Sue, True Love Ways, Oh Boy and many, many more.
With Big Bopper’s Chantilly Lace and Richie Valens’
La Bamba taking you towards total music overload, this show has
the whole audience rocking and bopping in the aisles. |
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HOWARD JONES
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Wed 26th April 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| Eighties icon Howard
Jones is one of the very few British artists to have comprehensively
broken America in the past 25 years. His single ‘No One Is
To Blame’ went to No 1 in the US in 1986. In the UK, Europe,
Japan and Australia he had a string of hits including ‘New
Song’, What is Love’, ‘Pearl in the Shell’,
‘Hide and Seek’, ‘Like to Get To Know You Well’
and many more. His album sales worldwide are now in excess of eight
million. Apart from being an outstanding singer/songwriter, he is
also a great piano player. He will be appearing in acoustic mode
on piano and vocals accompanied by highly respected guitarist Robin
Boult. These Howard Jones acoustic performances which include most
of the hits have received brilliant reviews. |
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SANTANA -
Thu 11th May 2006 - M.E.N Arena |
| One of rock's true survivors.
From wide-eyed novice at Woodstock through charting guitar hero
in the classic rock seventies to Grammy-winning Millennium Latino-beat
legend, Carlos Santana remains one of the most influential guitarists
of the modern era. |
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DYLAN MORAN
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Sun 14th May 2006 - The Lowry Theatre |
| When it comes to personal
details, Dylan Moran is a bit of a man of mystery. He’s Irish.
He has dark hair. He’s very, very funny. In 1993 he won Channel
4’s So You Think You’re Funny award. Three years later
he won the Perrier Award for Comedy at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
He proved his worth as a dramatic actor in How Do you Want Me? He
played Rufus The Thief in the 1999 blockbuster romantic comedy Notting
Hill, but he is probably most famous for his sit-com Black Books.
Moran’s unique brand of dry humour and surreal situations
bring the setting of an old bookstore to life in most unexpected
ways. |
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GIRLS ALOUD
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Sat 27th May 2006 - M.E.N Arena |
| Cheryl, Kimberley, Nadine,
Nicola and Sarah first came to the nation's attention in 2002, as
the winners of Popstars: The Rivals. They were the first all-female
group to debut at Number One in the UK and the first band ever to
get the Christmas Number One with their first single, 'Sound Of
The Underground'. A hard act to follow, but subsequent releases
have proved these girls are anything but one hit wonders. |
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ELTON JOHN
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Mon 29th May 2006 - M.E.N Arena |
| The ultimate showman,
Elton first hit the charts in the 70s with a plethora of hit singles.
One of the top selling artists worldwide ever since, Elton has branched
out to writing for musicals (including his award-winning soundtrack
for The Lion King) and does a phenomenal amount of charity work. |
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BON JOVI
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Sun 4th June 2006 - City of Manchester Stadium |
| One of the most successful
bands of the last two decades, Jon Bon Jovi and his fellow big-hair
rockers have sold over 100 million albums worldwide. Combining a
slew of classic hits, including 'Living on a Prayer', 'Bad Medicine'
and 'It's My Life', with epic live performances, Bon Jovi have proved
that they truly are the reigning kings of stadium rock. |
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THE JUNGLE BOOK
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Tues 27th June to Sat 1st July 2006 - Palace Theatre |
The Birmingham Stage
Company is proud to present Rudyard Kipling’s classic story
about Mowgli, a young boy who is raised in the jungle by a family
of wolves. When Shere Khan the tiger swears to kill the child,
Baloo and Bagheera agree to take the boy to the man village for
his safety. But the jungle holds danger and surprises for them
all and Mowgli’s amazing adventure has just begun! This
remarkable new production is touring throughout the country before
arriving in the West End. It follows The Birmingham Stage Company's
acclaimed productions of James and the Giant Peach, George's Marvellous
Medicine and last year's record-breaker Tom's Midnight Garden.
If you're looking for a magnificent adventure for all the family
then don't miss this premiere production of Kipling's timeless
story! |
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FIREMAN SAM
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Fri 28th July to Sun 30th July 2006 - Palace Theatre |
Meet Fireman Sam
- the brave and friendly 'hero next door' - together with his
fellow fire-fighters Elvis Criddlington and Penny Morris, in this
all new action-packed show full of adventure and drama. Naughty
Norman Price is constantly playing pranks, Mandy Flood is full
of fun whilst Wooly is Norman's pet lamb. Also starring Jupiter
the bright red fire engine - the pride of the Pontypandy Fire
Service! |
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ROBBIE WILLIAMS
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Sat 9th September 2006 - Roundhay Park, Leeds |
| Originally Robbie was
performing in Manchester at the start of July, however this isn't
planned anymore. The closest place to Manchester where you can see
Robbie, is at Roundhay Park in Leeds. Since embarking on a solo
career, Robbie has notched up a steady stream of hit singles and
albums, and has collected numerous awards for his performances.
Sing when he's winning? He's hardly stopped! Winner of the Best
British Male Solo Artist at the Brit Awards 2002. |
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MCFLY -
Fri 6th October 2006 - M.E.N Arena |
| Teenage punk popsters
McFly - who take their name from the 'Back To The Future' films
- are Tom Fletcher, Danny Jones, Dougie Poynter and Harry Jude.
Tom lost out to best buddy Charlie in the Busted audition - but
they are obviously still friends; McFly supported Busted on their
2004 tour and have been unstoppable ever since. Their debut single
5 Colours In Her Hair stayed at No. 1 for two weeks and their three
subsequent releases all made the Top 5. The T4 Smash Hits Poll Winners
Party 2004 might have well been called the McFly party with the
boys picking up an incredible 5 awards. |
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SIR CLIFF
RICHARD -
Sat 25 November & Sun 26 November 2006 - M.E.N Arena |
| With over 250 million
records sold and Number 1 hit singles in 5 different decades, the
eternal young one truly is the ultimate singing star. Despite his
massive success, Sir Cliff remains one of the most fan-friendly,
modest and lovable of all pop's children, whether he's going for
another Christmas top spot, playing Heathcliff on the stage, or
entertaining the crowds on a rainy day at Wimbledon. |
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