thsh what's on guide december 2009 & january 2010
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Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk
Lesley Garrett Wednesday 9 December, 7.30pm Symphony Hall
Supported by
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200
9 -
JAN
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2010
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 4Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 4
CONTENTS
3 Highlights
4-23 December Events
23-34 January Events
35 Coming Soon
36 Free Jazz – Rush Hour Blues & Sax in the City
37 Children’s Events
38 Public Tours
39 Education/Community
40 Booking Information
41 Seating Plans
42 Accessibility
43 Dining, Drinking & Shopping
44 Supporting Town Hall and Symphony Hall
45 How to Reach Us
46 Concerts at a Glance
C Schubert from Bostridge and Pappano p30 Barenboim plays Beethoven p33
The New York Voices with the BBC Big Band p16Glenn Miller Orchestra p24
Ray Davies in Concert p11David Gray p13
Kate Rusby at Christmas p9Tom Paxton p32
A Christmas Carol p7Ringside p26
Johann Strauss Gala p23Anton & Erin – Steppin’ Out p27
The Gruffalo p19 Children’s Events p37
HIGHLIGHTS
J
FOLKSPOKEN WORD
DFAMILY
ROCK & POP
Supported by Town Hall renovation also funded by
WELCOME tO YOuR guIDE tO thE ShOWS At tOWN hALL AND SYMPhONY hALL IN DECEMBER AND JANuARY
For full details of all our upcoming events please contact the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk
In 2009, Town Hall marks its milestone 175TH anniversary with a special series of events including concerts, talks, dances, films and more. The 175TH anniversary celebrates Town Hall’s unique and continuing heritage with eighteen events from traditional to contemporary,
reflecting the wide range of performance the Hall has always presented. www.thsh.co.uk/175th
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk4 DEC 5
MIdLaNdS HOSpITaLS’ CHOIr CHrISTMaS CONCErTSFrIday 4 dECEMbEr, 3pM & 7.15pM
David Lawrence conductorTenors Un LimitedGemini Brass
The Midlands Hospitals’ Choir gives annual Christmas Concerts to raise funds for CLIC Sargent, the largest charity helping children with cancer. The concert includes arrangements of favourite and newer carols, some sung by candlelight.
£10, £16, £22Discounts available, please check when booking.
CapSuLE 10TH bIrTHday CONCErTWEdNESday 2 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
TunngSix Organs of AdmittanceLightning DustBela Emerson
Capsule, crafting extraordinary events for adventurous audiences for the past 10 years, celebrate with special guests Tunng, who mix skewed electronica with pastoral English folk, Six Organs of Admittance, hippie jams updated for the kids of today, complemented by the bewitching Bela Emerson, a prolific performer of electric cello, and Canadian band Lightning Dust.
£12.50
HaydN 200: THE CrEaTIONTHurSday 3 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraAndris Nelsons conductorAilish Tynan sopranoJoel Prieto tenorVuyani Mlinde bassCBSO Chorus
Haydn The Creation 109’(sung in English)
Celebrate the 200th anniversary of Haydn’s death with his great oratorio The Creation - one of the freshest and happiest pieces of religious music ever written. Tonight’s concert is supported by the Tolkien Trust.
6.15pm Free pre-concert talk.
£9.50, £13.50, £17, £20.50, £23.50, £28, £32, £37, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.
HaNdEL’S MESSIaHSH FrIday 4 dECEMbEr, 7pMTH TuESday 8 dECEMbEr, 7pM
City of Birmingham ChoirAdrian Lucas conductorCity of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Alison Roddy sopranoSusanna Spicer contraltoEd Lyon tenorGeorge Humphreys bassThomas Trotter harpsichord
The City of Birmingham Choir’s Messiah performances will be extra special this year as they celebrate 25 years with Thomas Trotter at the harpsichord and Handel’s 250th anniversary, in Town Hall’s 175th year. A long standing Birmingham tradition, these concerts come highly recommended and feature regularly in the UK’s “Top Ten Messiahs”.
SH 4 December £11, £16, £21, £26, £31, £36TH 8 December £12, £16, £24, £28Discounts available, please check when booking.
CHILdrEN’S EvENT: CarNIvaL OF THE aNIMaLSSaTurday 5 dECEMbEr, 11aM
For details see page 37
GrEaT rOMaNTICSWEdNESday 2 dECEMbEr, 2.15pM
City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraAndris Nelsons conductorNikolai Lugansky piano
Liadov The Enchanted Lake 7’Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No 3 44’Dvorák Symphony No 8 36’
Forget the New World, Dvorák’s Eighth Symphony celebrates the old world with lilting tunes and utterly irresistible charm. Andris Nelsons sets the mood with another Slavic fairytale, Liadov’s ravishing Enchanted Lake, before being joined by pianist Nikolai Lugansky for Rachmaninov’s epic Third Concerto.
£9.50, £14, £18, £22, £25, £29, £34Discounts available, please check when booking.
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Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk DEC
6 Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 7DECDEC Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk
THE LONdON WELSH MaLE vOICE CHOIr CHarITy GaLa CONCErTSaTurday 5 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
Haydn James conductorGaynor Keeble mezzo sopranoAndrew Forbes organist
Join us for a special gala charity concert from the internationally acclaimed London Welsh Male Voice Choir, in aid of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign and THSH Education & Community programme.
The choir performs an uplifting selection of Christmas favourites alongside opera choruses, spirituals, folk songs and hits from the musicals, including The Impossible Dream, Myfawny, You Raise Me Up, Soldiers’ Chorus, Working Man, Yr Anthem Geltaidd, Rachie and many more.
£15, £19.50, £25Supported by the Patrick Trust.
brITISH pOLICE SyMpHONy OrCHESTra prOMS NIGHT SpECTaCuLar!SaTurday 5 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
The British Police Symphony Orchestra returns once again for the annual Proms Night Spectacular! The first half features Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Concerto before launching into a traditional Last Night celebration. Come and be part of one of the region’s most popular seasonal concerts.
£10, £15, £20Discounts available, please check when booking.
LuNCHTIME CHrISTMaS MuSICMONday 7 dECEMbEr, 1pM
Choir of St John’s College CambridgeAndrew Nethsingha directorThomas Trotter organGraham Walker cello
A feast of Christmas music and carols sung by a choir that remains one of the greatest exponents of the English choral tradition. Featuring beautiful music by Vaughan Williams, Darke, Howells and Birmingham’s John Joubert, plus audience carols.
£8 Reserved seating.Discounts available, please check when booking.
a CHrISTMaS CarOL by CHarLES dICkENSMONday 7 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
Performed by Clive Francis
In December 1853, Dickens chose A Christmas Carol for his first ever public reading, in Town Hall. Despite “the inclemency of the weather, nearly 2,000 persons had assembled.” Clive Francis recreates the occasion, filling the stage with an entire Dickensian landscape.
“Clive Francis as Scrooge is spellbinding” Sunday Times
£15Discounts available, please check when booking.In association with Marc Sinden Productions. PERFORMANCES BIRMINGHAM
WaLSaLL MuSIC SErvICESuNday 6 dECEMbEr, 2.30pM aNd 7.30pM
Walsall Music Service has formed a choir of over 600 young voices to sing exciting and well-loved seasonal music at these concerts. Also featured will be the winner of the West Midlands’ Pop Stars Competition; ballet, modern dance and music theatre groups; The Beacon Symphonic Wind Band and Walsall Youth Jazz.
£6Tickets go on sale from 3 November.
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk8 DEC Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 9DEC
SIr WILLard WHITE: rObESON rE-ExpLOrEdWEdNESday 9 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
Sir Willard WhitePavão String QuartetGuy Barker trumpetNeal Thornton piano and arrangementsGeoff Gascoyne bassRichard Bolton guitarMark Doffman drumsTown Hall Gospel Choir
A celebration of Paul Robeson’s four appearances at Town Hall. Sir Willard White, his band, and the Town Hall Gospel Choir explore his life story with an evening of the songs he made immortal, including, of course, the legendary Ol’ Man River.
6.15pm Free pre-concert talk: Paul Robeson remembered.
Sold out, returns only.
£5, £6.50, £13.50, £18.50, £25Choir Benches not available. Discounts available, please check when booking.
LESLEy GarrETT CHrISTMaS GaLa CONCErTWEdNESday 9 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
Philip Ellis conductorThe English Chamber Orchestra
Britain’s most popular soprano presents a gala evening of her favourite carols and seasonal songs alongside opera and classical arias from her recent album Amazing Grace. Accompanied by The English Chamber Orchestra, the concert features music by composers such as Mozart, Vivaldi, Puccini, John Rutter, Karl Jenkins, Bach and Verdi.
£11.50, £15.50, £21.50, £26.50, £33.50, £37.50
kaTE ruSby aT CHrISTMaSTHurSday 10 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
Kate Rusby is one of Britain’s foremost folk artists, whether performing traditional songs or her own intuitive material. This special evening takes in Rusby classics, old favourites and a showcase of South Yorkshire village carols, complete with brass quintet. A chance to hear new variations of familiar carols, in a rousing Christmas celebration.
£20No support.
HaNdEL’S MESSIaHTuESday 8 dECEMbEr, 7pM
City of Birmingham ChoirFor details see page 5
ONLy MEN aLOud!TuESday 8 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
After a critically acclaimed sell out tour, Only Men Aloud!, winners of the BBC One hit show Last Choir Standing, return with a very special Christmas concert. The show features a festive Christmas repertoire, songs from their first and second albums plus a few firm favourites.
£20, £26, £29.50
Sponsored by
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk10 DEC Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 11DEC
FrIday NIGHT CLaSSICS: WINTEr WONdErLaNdFrIday 11 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraGareth Hudson conductorAnnalene Beechey vocalistGlyn Kerslake vocalist
Take a sleigh ride into the CBSO’s very own winter wonderland with songs including:
Prokofiev’s Troika, Drivin’ Home for Christmas, Little Drummer Boy, Baby it’s Cold Outside, Mistletoe and Wine, Santa Baby, Winter Wonderland, Let It Snow, A Winter’s Tale, White Christmas, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, When a Child Is Born, Mary’s Boy Child and more!
£9.50, £16.50, £23, £28.50, £33, £37, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.
LaTIN aMErICaN CHrISTMaSSaTurday 12 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
Ex Cathedra Choir & Baroque EnsembleEx Cathedra Academy of Vocal MusicAndrew Fletcher organJeffrey Skidmore conductor
Vibrant and joyous, this concert is filled with indigenous references and hidden Christian messages. Ex Cathedra’s performances of Baroque music from Latin America have been nationally and internationally acclaimed. What better way to get into the Christmas spirit?
£5, £15, £22.50, £30Ex Cathedra is a Town Hall Associate Artist.
ray davIES IN CONCErTSaTurday 12 dECEMbEr, 8pM
Hard on the heels of his latest album release The Kinks Choral Collection, Ray Davies returns to Symphony Hall. One of the most successful and influential songwriters of the ‘60s British Invasion, his string of international hits began with You Really Got Me, followed by All Day and All of The Night, and many, many others.
£36.50
SyMpHONIC daNCES: IITHurSday 10 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraKristjan Järvi conductorTim Garland saxophoneEduardo Vassallo cello
Ginastera Estancia 14’Garland Double Concerto (world premiere) 25’Bernstein West Side Story - Symphonic Dances 24’Ravel Daphnis and Chloé - Suite No 2 18’
Kristjan Järvi presents a programme intoxicated by dance rhythms including Ravel’s sensual ballet and Bernstein’s New York take on Romeo and Juliet. Ginastera’s ballet is also a riot of Argentine colour, and an appropriate prelude to leading jazz composer and Acoustic Triangle member Tim Garland’s new Latin-influenced concerto.
6.15pm Free pre-concert talk.
£9.50, £13.50, £17, £20.50, £23.50, £28, £32, £37, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.
SCOTT MaTTHEWS & baNd FrIday 11 dECEMbEr, 8pM
Plus support Jo Hamilton
The Midlands’ own Scott Matthews makes his first visit to Town Hall for a one-off Christmas show. His celebrated performance on Later with Jools Holland had Damon Albarn, amongst others, singing his praises. Scott has recently toured with Robert Plant, Alison Krauss, Rufus Wainwright, Bert Jansch and The Foo Fighters. He received the Ivor Novello Award for Elusive, and released his second album Elsewhere to great acclaim in 2009.
“The most promising home-grown singer-songwriter to emerge in years” Q magazine
£14
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk12 DEC Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 13DEC
bIrMINGHaM COMMuNITy FOuNdaTION CHrISTMaS prOMTuESday 15 dECEMbEr, 8pM
Birmingham Philharmonic OrchestraRichard Laing conductor Adrian Goldberg compere
Held in aid of the Birmingham Community Foundation, the Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra performs a rich and inspiring classical repertoire including carols such as Deck the Halls, Once in Royal David’s City combined with traditional classical favourites such as Jerusalem and Pomp and Circumstance.
£15, £20
davId GrayTuESday 15 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
David Gray visits Symphony Hall to mark the release of Draw the Line, a new collection of songs showing the artist in a new revitalised light, hungry for more feeling. Highlights are aplenty including the new single Fugitive. Don’t miss the chance to see him bring his songs to life in person.
£29.50
bIrMINGHaM MuSIC SErvICE CHrISTMaS CONCErTSuNday 13 dECEMbEr, 6pM
Birmingham Music Service’s annual Christmas concert featuring the talented young musicians of the city.
£10Discounts available, please check when booking. Tickets are on sale from Monday 9 November.
SING CarOLS WITH THE CITy OrGaNISTMONday 14 dECEMbEr, 1pM
Thomas Trotter organCambrian BrassJeremy Nicholas compere
An annual favourite, this is a truly festive occasion in which you have the chance to sing your heart out with favourite carols, led by Thomas Trotter and Cambrian Brass.
£8Reserved seating. Discounts available, please check when booking.
SaLvaTION arMy - ‘rEjOICE’ CHrISTMaS CarOL CONCErTSuNday 13 dECEMbEr, 2.30pM & 6pM
Christmas carols, music and drama with the Salvation Army. The concert features vocal soloist Susanne Dymott, guest speaker Commissioner John Matear and festive music from the Salvation Army brass bands, choirs, timbrels and children. Let the Salvation Army remind you of the true meaning of Christmas.
£4, £7, £9Discounts available, please check when booking.
Symphony Hall 200919 November - 22 DecemberJewellery and Silverware by West Midlands contemporary designerswww.centrepiece-jewellery.co.ukDaily, from 10.30am till late
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk14 DEC Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 15DEC
brITTEN SINFONIa aT LuNCHTHurSday 17 dECEMbEr, 1pM
Jacqueline Shave, Miranda Dale violinMartin Outram violaCaroline Dearnley celloJaime Martin fluteJoy Farrall clarinetHuw Watkins pianoHelen Yates percussion
Britten Sinfonia’s concert focuses on the chamber music of pioneering composer Harrison Birtwistle. Much of Birtwistle’s music has been influenced by Medieval and Renaissance masters. In today’s performance you can hear the contrast of the contemporary against a work by either Bach or a composer of the Middle Ages.
£7.50Discounts available, please check when booking.
THE ukuLELE OrCHESTra OF GrEaT brITaIN CHrISTMaS SpECIaL THurSday 17 dECEMbEr, 8pM
The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, seen and heard across the globe, is simultaneously provocative, entertaining and inspiring. Their shows combine music, humour and intelligence with silliness.
£18.50(This event is now sold out but you can catch the Orchestra at Ukulelescope, Saturday 5 June 2010, Town Hall, 8pm, £18.50. This is a screening of silent film footage with musical accompaniment, in conjunction with the BFI).
Machaut Hoquetus DavidHarrison Birtwistle Double HocketJS Bach Art of Fugue Contrapunctus VII, XII and XVIIHarrison Birtwistle LiedHarrison Birtwistle VersesChristian Mason New Work (world premiere tour)Ockeghem Ut heremita solus
IMELda May WEdNESday 16 dECEMbEr, 8pM
Plus support
Dublin-born Imelda May has the rare kind of raw talent and timeless glamour that truly illuminates the stage. You don’t just watch Imelda perform, you experience it. The rockabilly/blues singer has recently toured with Jeff Beck, appeared at Glastonbury and received acclaim for album Love Tattoo.
£15 stalls standing. £17 reserved circle seating.
bISS pLayS MOzarTWEdNESday 16 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraRobert Spano conductorJonathan Biss piano
Tiensuu False Memories (UK premiere) 16’Mozart Piano Concerto No 9, K271 31’Sibelius Symphony No 2 42’
Sibelius’s sweeping, passionate symphony has long been a Birmingham favourite, and Spano also introduces a work by one of the finest of the current amazing generation of Finnish composers. Between the two, Jonathan Biss performs a miraculous product of the 21-year- old Mozart.
£9.50, £13.50, £17, £20.50, £23.50, £28, £32, £37, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.
HErE COME THE GIrLSTHurSday 17 dECEMbEr, 7.45pM
Lulu, Chaka Khan and Anastacia
Here Comes the Girls is centred on the three superstar voices - Lulu, Anastacia and Chaka Khan - each with their own unique sense of style, humour and musical heritage. Celebrating all that it means to be a woman, the show mixes great music, laughter, tears, glamour, joy – and a bit of mischief for good measure.
£25, £30, £40
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk16 DEC Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 17DEC
CELEbraTE CHrISTMaS WITH THOMaS SpENCEr-WOrTLEyMONday 21 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
Special guests All Angels
Classical crossover tenor, Thomas Spencer-Wortley, is joined by Classical Brit-nominated All Angels, Irish soprano Mairead Carlin, West End guests, and all-female string quartet Midnight. With popular classics, songs from the shows and festive favourites, there’s something for everyone.
“The solo version of Il Divo” Sunday Express
£27.50, £29.50Discounts available, please check when booking.
WHITE CHrISTMaSFrIday 18 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
London Concert OrchestraJohn Rigby conductorCapital Voices
May your Christmas celebrations be magical, merry and bright with this wonderful show of nostalgic all-time favourites, including: Merry Christmas, It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Let it Snow, Santa Baby, A Winter’s Tale, Nativity Carol, Jingle Bell Rock, White Christmas, The Christmas Song, Baby It’s Cold Outside, I Wish it Could be Christmas Everyday, The Twelve Days of Christmas, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Sleigh Ride and The Holly and the Ivy.
£11, £15.50, £21, £24.50, £28, £33
bLaCk vOICES CHrISTMaS CONCErTSaTurday 19 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
With special guests Town Hall Gospel Choir
Carol Pemberton music directorColin Anderson choir director
The UK’s foremost female unaccompanied group entertain and inspire with their brilliant renditions of gospel, spirituals, traditional Caribbean and African music, jazz and blues. They’re joined by special guests Town Hall Gospel Choir, to sing an uplifting selection of Christmas music.
£15Discounts available, please check when booking.Black Voices is a Town Hall Associate Artist.
CarOLS by CaNdLELIGHTSaTurday 19 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
Mozart Festival Orchestra in full 18th Century costume
Gareth Hancock conductorGail Pearson sopranoCanzonetta choir
Carols and seasonal classics, performed by the UK’s most elegant ensemble in full period costume in a candle-lit style setting. Carols include O Little Town of Bethlehem, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, The First Nowell, O Come, All Ye Faithful, While Shepherds Watched and O Come, O Come Emmanuel.
£11, £15.50, £21, £24.50, £28, £33
CHrISTMaS CELEbraTIONSSuNday 20 dECEMbEr, 2.30pM
City of Birmingham ChoirAdrian Lucas conductorHeart of England Brass
Celebrate Christmas with the City of Birmingham Choir. A fabulously festive concert to get you in the Christmas spirit - brass band, children’s choir and carols to enjoy and sing-along-with.
£10, £12, £16, £22Discounts available, please check when booking.
Programme includes:Corelli Allegro and Pastorale from Christmas ConcertoBach Air on the G StringMozart Alleluia from Exultate JubilatePearsall In dulci jubiloCullen Joy to the WorldHandel Let the bright Seraphim, Zadok the Priest, Christmas sequence from Messiah
THE NEW yOrk vOICES WITH THE bbC bIG baNdFrIday 18 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
The Grammy-winning quartet makes an exclusive UK appearance with the BBC Big Band. Expect the best in vocal jazz including Sing Sing Sing, Ain’t Nobody Here But Us Chickens, Orange Coloured Sky and seasonal favourites as We Wish You a Merry Christmas!
£12.50, £16.50, £19.50Concert to be recorded for BBC Radio 2’s Big Band Special www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/shows/bigbandBBC Big Band is a Town Hall Associate Artist.
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk18 DEC Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 19DEC
THE GruFFaLOWEdNESday 23 dECEMbEr – SuNday 3 jaNuary
This big scary monster is heading to Town Hall this Christmas! Join Mouse on an adventurous journey through the deep dark wood in this magical, musical adaptation of the award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler (“a modern classic” The Observer). Mouse can scare hungry animals away with tall stories of the terrifying Gruffalo, but what happens when he comes face to face with the very creature he imagined? Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged three and up, and their adults... Let your imagination run wild!
Recommended for ages 3–7. Performance lasts just under 1 hour and there is no interval.
£10.50 Groups of 10 or more - £8.50 (for groups please call 0800 358 7070).
Wednesday 23 december, 1.30pm & 3.30pmThursday 24 december, 11am & 1.30pmSunday 27 december, 11am, 1.30pm, 3.30pmMonday 28 december, 11am & 1.30pmTuesday 29 december, 11am & 1.30pmWednesday 30 december, 11am & 1.30pmThursday 31 december, 11am & 1.30pmSaturday 2 january*, 11am, 1.30pm, 3.30pmSunday 3 january, 11am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm
* Children’s Event The Great Gruffalo Grrrr Day, free to ticketholders for performances on this day. For details see p37.
FESTIvE FavOurITES WITH aLaN TITCHMarSHSuNday 20 dECEMbEr, 3pM & 7.30pMMONday 21 dECEMbEr, 7.30pMTuESday 22 dECEMbEr, 3pM & 7.30pM
City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraSimon Halsey conductorAlan Titchmarsh presenterCBSO Chorus & CBSO Youth ChorusCBSO Young VoicesCBSO Boys’ ChoirCBSO Children’s Chorus
Join the CBSO for its traditional Christmas concerts, hosted by British treasure Alan Titchmarsh. There will be lots of festive music, carols to sing along to, plus Alan shares Christmas readings from his seasonal anthology Fill My Stocking.
£9.50, £17.50, £24, £29.50, £34.50, £37.50, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.
a CHrISTMaS FaNTaSIaTuESday 22 dECEMbEr, 7pM
Canoldir Male ChoirJames Llewelyn Jones musical directorPhilip Lloyd Holtam (Welsh National Opera) tenor Choirs of Edgbaston High School for Girls
Join Canoldir and guests for a seasonal selection of choral and vocal music ranging from favourite Christmas carols and light hearted songs to classical chorus and oratorio.
£12, £15Choir seats not available.
CHrISTMaS CarOL SINGaLONGWEdNESday 23 dECEMbEr, 7.30pM
London Concert OrchestraJonathan Cohen compereSophie-Louise Dann special guest singerBirmingham Festival Choral Society
Irrepressible showman Jonathan Cohen leads you on a Christmas romp through your favourite carols and songs - Silent Night, God Rest You Merry Gentlemen, The Twelve Days of Christmas, Sleigh Ride, Good King Wenceslas, Winter Wonderland, Let it Snow, Away in a Manger, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, The First Nowell, I Saw Three Ships, Frosty the Snowman and O Little Town of Bethlehem.
£11, £15.50, £21, £24.50, £28, £33
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk20 DEC Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 21DEC
Christmas EvE ClassiCsthursday 24 dECEmbEr, 3pm
London Concert OrchestraDavid Hill conductorJames Edwards tenorCrispian Steele-Perkins trumpetBirmingham Choral UnionStaffordshire Children’s Choir
This concert of joyous seasonal and traditional music for all the family perfectly captures the true spirit of Christmas. Plus carols for all - The First Nowell, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear.
£11, £15.50, £21, £24, £26.50, £30
last Night of thE Christmas promssuNday 27 dECEmbEr, 7.30pm
London Concert OrchestraStephen Bell conductorPhilip O’Brien tenorOwen Gilhooly baritone
A riotous celebration in true Proms tradition with classic after classic after classic - Rule Britannia!, Jerusalem, Nessun Dorma, The Dam Busters March, Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines and a rousing flag-waving finale.
£11, £15.50, £21, £24.50, £28, £33
thE rEal dEal ComEdy Jam Christmas spECialmoNday 28 dECEmbEr, 7.30pm
A night of urban stand-up comedy, music and dance from the Real Deal Comedy Jam Variety Show. End the year with a surprise twist in a variety show destined to end your 2009 with jovial festivity. Showcasing some of the UK’s world-renowned comedians, dancers and artists, this is a show not to be missed.
£25, £27.50
simply gErshwiNmoNday 28 dECEmbEr, 7.30pm
Dancing from three time world champions Chris Marques and Jaclyn Spencer
London Concert OrchestraGavin Sutherland piano/conductorDouglas Mills tap dancerNicola Hughes, Edward Baruwa special guest vocalists
Broadway glamour and toe-tapping tunes in a new all-Gershwin programme of song and dance - Rhapsody in Blue, S’Wonderful, Lady Be Good, Strike Up the Band, The Man I Love, Fascinatin’ Rhythm, I’ve Got a Crush on You, A Foggy Day in London Town, Walking the Dog, Someone to Watch Over Me and excerpts from Porgy and Bess.
£11, £15.50, £21, £24.50, £28, £33
Bach Jesu, Joy Of Man’s DesiringHandel Zadok the PriestFranck Panis AngelicusRutter The Angels’ CarolVivaldi GloriaAdam O Holy Night
Schubert Ave MariaBerlioz Shepherds’ FarewellAdams The Holy City
Ravel BoleroVerdi Force of Destiny Overture, La Donna È MobileTchaikovsky The Sleeping Beauty WaltzBizet Duet from The Pearl FishersSousa Stars and Stripes ForeverDelibes Prelude and Mazurka from CoppéliaOffenbach Orpheus in the Underworld Overture
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk22 DEC Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 23DEC/JAN
The Sound of MuSicalSWedneSday 30 deceMber, 7.30pM
Special guest star Ruthie Henshall
London Concert OrchestraRichard Balcombe conductor
Show-stopping numbers from the greatest Broadway and West End musicals with glittering soloists from London’s West End, Deborah Myers, Tim Howar and James Graeme. Including Chicago, Kiss Me Kate, Mamma Mia, My Fair Lady, High Society, Les Miserables, Crazy For You, Guys And Dolls, West Side Story, The Sound Of Music and The Phantom of The Opera.
£11.50, £16, £22.50, £26, £29.50, £35
neW year’S eve GalaThurSday 31 deceMber, 5pM & 9.30pM
Special guests Kit and the Widow
London Concert OrchestraAnthony Inglis conductor Claire Wild soprano
Dvorák Carnival OvertureGrieg Morning and In The Hall of the Mountain KingSibelius FinlandiaPuccini O Mio Babbino CaroTchaikovsky Capriccio ItalienStrauss Radetzky MarchFucik Entrance of the GladiatorsMozart Queen of the Night from The Magic Flute
Rousing classics and all your Proms favourites - Rule, Britannia!, 633 Squadron, Land of Hope and Glory and Nessun Dorma. Special guests Kit and the Widow take a fond look back at the year.
Come along to the matinee for the perfect start to your New Year’s Eve celebrations.
5pm £10.50, £14.50, £19.50, £24.50, £29.50, £359.30pm Returns only £17.50 £23.50 £28.50, £33.50, £38.50, £42.50
a niGhT aT The operaTueSday 29 deceMber, 7.30pM
London Concert OrchestraAndrew Greenwood conductorLinda Richardson soprano
Fanfare Trumpeters Of The Band Of The Welsh Guards Rossini Barber of Seville OvertureVerdi Brindisi, Sempre Libera from La Traviata, La Donna È Mobile from Rigoletto, Miserere From Il Trovatore, Va Pensiero from Nabucco, Grand March from AidaTchaikovsky Lensky’s Aria from Eugene OneginGounod Soldiers’ Chorus, Jewel Song from FaustOffenbach The Legend Of Kleinzack, Barcarolle from Tales Of HoffmanCatalani Ebben? Ne Andrò Lontano from La WallyPuccini Vissi D’arte from Tosca, Intermezzo from Manon Lescaut, Love Duet from La Bohème
Jennie Bond hosts a royal tour of glorious arias and timeless music from the world’s best-loved operas.
£11, £15.50, £21, £24.50, £28, £33
Johann STrauSS Galafriday 1 January, 3pM
Johann Strauss OrchestraCaroline MacPhie soprano Johann Strauss Dancers in beautiful costumes of the periodChristopher Hampson choreography and stagingDavid Juritz directs from the violin in the traditional Viennese manner
Waltz back in time to the glittering ballrooms of 19th century Vienna with a magical mix of music, song and dance from the Strauss Family and friends - The Blue Danube Waltz, Tritsch Tratsch Polka, The Laughing Song from Die Fledermaus, Radetzky March, Thunder and Lightning Polka, Pizzicato Polka, Wiener Blut, Perpetuum Mobile and Die Fledermaus Overture.
£11, £15.50, £19.50, £24, £29, £34
ˇ
Rafael Rojas tenorJennie Bond compereLeicester Philharmonic Choir
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk24 JAN Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 25JAN
Glenn Miller orcheSTraSaTurday 2 January, 3pM
Join legendary band leader Ray McVay and the UK’s greatest big band with classic hits and wartime chart toppers including American Patrol, Perfidia, Kalamazoo, Moonlight Serenade, In the Mood, Chattanooga Choo Choo and more. Featuring Jan Messeder, Colin Anthony, The Uptown Hall Gang, The Moonlight Serenades and forces’ sweethearts, Irresistible.
£14.50, £19.50, £23.50, £26.50
Sunday afTernoon aT The SyMphonySunday 3 January, 3pM
Manchester Concert OrchestraJohn Pryce-Jones conductorJonathan Scott organ
Rossini William Tell OvertureSaint-Saens Symphony No 3, Organ Bizet Carmen SuiteMascagni Intermezzo from Cavelleria RusticanaElgar Chanson de MatinStrauss Blue Danube WaltzTchaikovsky Capriccio Italien
After the hectic whirl of Christmas and the New Year, relax and enjoy a charming afternoon of perfect classics.
£11, £15.50, £21, £24, £27.50, £31.50
neW year froM viennaSaTurday 9 January, 3pM & 7pM
City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraBarry Wordsworth conductorElizabeth Atherton soprano
Tap your toes into 2010 with the CBSO’s effervescent New Year celebrations in traditional Viennese style, featuring waltzes and polkas including Strauss’s Die Fledermaus - Overture & Czardas, Tritsch Tratsch Polka, Champagne Polka, Emperor Waltz, Egyptian March, Voices of Spring, Cuckoo Polka, Pizzicato-Polka, Thunder and Lightning Polka, The Blue Danube and Lehár’s Gold & Silver Waltz and The Merry Widow (Vilja Song).
£9.50, £16.50, £23, £28.50, £33, £37, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.
brahMS and SibeliuSWedneSday 13 January, 2.15pM & ThurSday 14 January, 7.30pMCity of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraVassily Sinaisky conductorLaurence Jackson violinUlrich Heinen cello
Brahms Academic Festival Overture 10’ Double Concerto 31’Sibelius The Swan of Tuonela - Legend No 2 10’ Symphony No 5 31’
Brahms’s Academic Festival Overture is a hilarious one-in-the-eye for those who think of Brahms as stuffy – and so is his gorgeous Double Concerto. The Swan of Tuonela is a darkly beautiful meditation on mortality; the mighty Fifth Symphony, meanwhile, is one of the 20th century’s most dynamic masterpieces.
1.15pm (13 Jan only) Free pre-concert talk.
Wednesday 13 January: £9.50, £14, £18, £22, £25, £29, £34Thursday 14 January: £9.50, £13.50, £17, £20.50, £23.50, £28, £32, £37, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.
belcea QuarTeTMonday 11 January, 7.30pM
Beethoven String Quartet, Op 59, No 1, Razumovsky 40’Schubert String Quartet Death and the Maiden 37’
The Belcea Quartet has earned an international reputation for some of the most polished performances you will hear today. At Town Hall they play two masterpieces: Schubert’s Death and the Maiden Quartet and Beethoven’s epic first Razumovsky Quartet.
£5, £6.50, £10, £15, £20Discounts available, please check when booking.
lunchTiMe orGan concerTMonday 11 January, 1pM
Thomas Trotter organ
Bonnet Variations de Concert 7’DeGrigny 3 Pieces from Organ Mass 10’Bonnal Paysages Euskariens 18’Alain Postlude pour l’office de complies 4’ Litaize Prélude et Danse Fuguée 7’
£6Unreserved seating. Discounts available, please check when booking.
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk26 JAN Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 27JAN
MeM MorriSon preSenTS RingsideThurSday 14 January, 7.45pMfriday 15 January, 7.45pM
Mem Morrison requests the pleasure of your company at Town Hall Birmingham. Take a front row seat, join the family and meet the many potential brides at his long overdue wedding reception.
From behind the big hair and a seven-tier wedding cake a flicker of hope peers; an intimate attempt to belong to a culture, to a family and to someone.
Mem Morrison’s new production Ringside draws on a lifetime of remembered Turkish Cypriot family weddings, testing traditional values by breaking the silence and changing history forever. Will it be Mem’s turn next?
£10Tickets must be booked through The REP Box Office on 0121 236 4455. Wheelchair spaces can only be booked by phone.In association with Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Fierce! and Town Hall Birmingham. Produced by Artsadmin. Supported by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
anTon & erin – STeppin’ ouTSaTurday 16 January, 3pM & 7.30pM
Step out with Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag in a sensational all-new show. From the BBC‘s Strictly Come Dancing, Anton and Erin will charm you with the glamour of ballroom. They are joined by a dance ensemble, special guest vocalist and a dazzling live orchestra celebrating music, song and dance including Cole Porter, Irving Berlin and Gershwin.
£15, £19.50, £27.50, £31.50,
£36, £39.50
recreaTio!SaTurday 16 January, 7.30pM
New English Orchestra and Singers Nigel Swinford director
Programme includes:Telemann Concerto for Three Trumpets Vivaldi Concerto for Two ViolinsBeethoven Hallelujah chorus
A kaleidoscope of music to refresh and inspire, from an ensemble specialising in spiritual music. This varied concert includes music from different genres and around the world including Scottish fiddle music and spirituals.
£10, £15, £20, £25
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk28 JAN Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 29JAN
briTTen Sinfonia aT lunchThurSday 21 January, 1pM
Thomas Gould, Miranda Dale violinMartin Outram violaCaroline Dearnley celloJoy Farrall clarinetHuw Watkins piano
Gibbons arr. Muhly This Is the Record of John Hosanna to the Son of David O Lord in Thy WrathHowells Rhapsodic QuintetNico Muhly New Work (world premiere tour)Copland Sextet
Young firebrand composer, Nico Muhly has devised this programme. His influences are wide-ranging with early English choral music a particular interest. Here are his new arrangements of three songs by Jacobean composer, Orlando Gibbons plus a new work by Muhly himself.
£7.50 stalls onlyDiscounts available, please check when booking.
elGar’S eniGMaWedneSday 20 January, 7.30pMSaTurday 23 January, 7pM
City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraEdward Gardner conductorAlison Balsom trumpetChristopher Yates viola
Vaughan Williams Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis 15’Macmillan Epiclesis 25’Britten Lachrymae 15’Elgar Enigma Variations 29’
This concert of superb British music begins with an English jewel. Britten’s late work for viola and strings also draws on older English music, while James Macmillan’s striking trumpet concerto is a prayer inspired by the composer’s Christian faith. The concert ends with Elgar’s brilliant tribute to his friends.
6.15pm (20 Jan) 5.45pm (23 Jan) Free pre-concert talk.
£9.50, £13.50, £17, £20.50, £23.50, £28, £32, £37, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.
lunchTiMe orGan concerTMonday 18 January, 1pM
Thomas Trotter organ
Mozart Fantasia for a Musical Clock K608 10’Bach Two Preludes from the “18” Chorales (BWV 664 & 658) 11’Haydn Five Clock Pieces 6’Anderson The Syncopated Clock 3’Vierne Toccata – Clair de Lune – Carillon de Westminster 15’
£6Unreserved seating. Discounts available, please check when booking.
Sunday MorninG coffee concerTSunday 17 January, 11aM
ECHO Rising Stars Series 15th Season
Emil Jonason clarinet Peter Friis Johansson piano
Debussy Première Rhapsodie Anders Hillborg Tampere RawBrahms Sonata No 1 in F minor Op 120
In this latest Rising Stars concert these young artists, nominated by the Concert Hall in Stockholm, offer two of the finest and most popular works in the clarinet repertoire, Debussy’s Rhapsody No 1 and the first of Brahms’s two Sonatas, as well as a modern piece by their distinguished countryman Anders Hillborg.
£7.50 stalls onlyDiscounts available, please check when booking.Ticket includes a cup of coffee or tea, or a glass of sherry, orange juice or water.
cbSo SchoolS’ concerT – eniGMa variaTionSThurSday 21 January, 11.30aM and 1.30pM
City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraEdward Gardner conductor
Elgar Enigma Variations
11.30am: specially devised for Key Stage 2 (years 5 and 6)1.30pm: for Key Stages 3 and 4
£4 per ticket for children and teachers, and home-schooling* children and parents. To book please call Group Bookings on 0800 358 7070.
For information on pre-concert support packages and other opportunities available for schools with the CBSO, please contact the CBSO’s Education Department by email (education@cbso.co.uk) or telephone (0121 616 6546).
* Proof of eligibility, e.g. registration with your Local Authority is required. Please note that this replaces the previously advertised schools’ concerts on 15 April 2010.
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 31JAN30 JAN
lunchTiMe orGan concerTMonday 25 January, 1pM
Thomas Trotter organ
Bach Prelude & Fugue in G BWV 541 7’Franck Prière 12’Best Variations on God save the Queen 8’Harris Four Short Pieces 10’Wagner Overture to Die Meistersinger 10’
£6Unreserved seating. Discounts available, please check when booking.
SchuberT froM boSTridGe and pappanofriday 22 January, 7.30pM
Ian Bostridge tenorAntonio Pappano piano
Schubert Widerschein, Der Winterabend, Die Sterne 13’ Schwanengesang 53’
“A performance as intense and intriguing as it was timeless,” wrote The Scotsman after Ian Bostridge and Antonio Pappano, Music Director of the Royal Opera House, performed Schwanengesang (Swansong) at the 2008 Edinburgh Festival. These unforgettable songs are the last that Schubert completed – audacious, economical and deeply expressive.
£5, £6.50, £13.50, £18.50, £25Choir benches not available.Please note there is no interval.Discounts available, please check when booking.
reach concerT - The people chariTy SaTurday 23 January, 7.30pM
Richard Atlas singer
Richard Atlas is an opera-trained singer who has performed in theatre musicals. In this concert he will perform uplifting musical numbers accompanied by a 6-piece band.
£7.50All proceeds go towards supporting an orphanage in India.
SinG live - SinG The claSSicS and claSSical rockSunday 24 January, 7.30pM
Sing Live Central brings classical and rock together in one concert. Featuring time honoured favourites from Mozart and Handel, including the beautiful Ave Verum Corpus, and rock hits from U2, Bon Jovi, Queen, and more. Sing Live are accompanied by The National Festival Orchestra and a rock band.
£15, £17.50, £19.50, £21.50
holocauST MeMorial day Sunday 24 January, 2pM
This year marks the 65th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. The theme is Legacy of Hope. Survivors tell how they’ve passed a message of hope and resilience to the next generation.
Free event
The iMaGined villaGeThurSday 21 January, 7.30pM
The Imagined Village is a stunning project spearheaded by Grammy Award-winning musician and producer Simon Emmerson. An outstanding line-up includes Martin Carthy, Eliza Carthy, and Chris Wood backed by a band featuring Simon Emmerson, Johnny Kalsi, Ali Friend, Andy Gangadeen, Simon Richmond, Sheema Mukherjee and Barney Morse Brown. Traditional instruments are interwoven with the sounds of today. Fiddles and squeezebox sit alongside electronica and ambient effect, and Simon is joined by members of world beat troupe Transglobal Underground and live electronic band, The Bays.
£16.50Supported by Moseley Folk Festival.
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk32 JAN Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 33JAN
barenboiM playS beeThovenSaTurday 30 January, 7.30pM
Staatskapelle BerlinDaniel Barenboim conductor/piano
Schoenberg Verklärte Nacht 20’Beethoven Piano Concerto No 5, Emperor 38’
Few names are more prestigious in music today than that of Daniel Barenboim. A musical colossus and legend in his own lifetime, he is one of the world’s leading pianists and conductors, with barely a corner of musical life that he has not touched in some way. Steeped in Beethoven’s music, Barenboim’s performance of the Emperor Concerto with the Staatskapelle Berlin is eagerly anticipated.
£5, £17.50, £25, £32.50, £40, £50, £60Discounts available, please check when booking.
ToM paxTonMonday 25 January, 7.30pM
Perennial US folk music legend Tom Paxton returns to Town Hall in his incredible sixth decade as a live performer. He has delighted generations with unforgettable classics including Ramblin’ Boy, Always on My Mind and Bottle of Wine.
He has a quite magical charisma on stage, combining subtly acerbic wit with dignity, humanity and unique charm in abundance. No-one walks away from a Tom Paxton show without a big smile and a warm feeling. An absolute one-off.
£20
No Support.
an alpine SyMphonyThurSday 28 January, 7.30pMTueSday 2 february, 7.30pM
City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Andris Nelsons conductorMartin Helmchen piano
Mozart Symphony No 33 19’ Piano Concerto No 24, K491 31’Strauss An Alpine Symphony 51’
Strauss’s Alpine Symphony is vast, with everything from a trickling mountain stream to a mighty glacier painted in music of dazzling colour and breathtaking power. Mozart was Strauss’s favourite composer, so Mozart’s spirited works performed tonight make the perfect musical hors d’oeuvre.
6.15pm (both dates) Free pre-concert talk.
£9.50, £13.50, £17, £20.50, £23.50, £28, £32, £37, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk34 JAN Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 35
coMinG Soon Jan Garbarek Group friday 29 January, 7.30pM£18.50, £22.50, £25
noel fieldinG TueSday 2 & WedneSday 3 february, 8pM£22.50
black dyke bandSunday 7 february, 3pM£12.50
Judy collinS pluS SupporTSunday 7 february, 7.30pM£20
rhod GilberTMonday 8 february, 8pM£16.50
cbSo: filM MuSic for loverS friday 12 february, 7.30pM£9.50, £16.50, £23, £28.50, £33, £37, £39.50
TiM vinefriday 19 february, 8pM£16
STeve reich’S druMMinGSaTurday 20 february, 7pM£5, £6.50, £10, £14.50, £17.50
chriS reaTueSday 9 & WedneSday 10 March, 7.30pM£29.50
SGT. pepper’S lonely hearTS club ShoWThurSday 11 March, 7.30pM£24.50
The dublinerSWedneSday 17 March, 8pM£20
an eveninG WiTh barbara dickSonWedneSday 24 March, 8pM£22.50, £24.50
don Mclean in concerT pluS SupporT
Monday 3 May, 8pM
£27.50, £32.50
xl – in 40 parTSSunday 31 January, 4pM
Ex Cathedra ChoirJeffrey Skidmore conductor
Tallis Spem in aliumStriggio Ecce beatam lucemGabriel Jackson Santum est verum lucem (2005)Alec Roth A new work (2010)Tallis Sing and Glorify
In Ex Cathedra’s 40th year, a concert of music written in 40 parts, including two works specially written for the choir itself and the iconic model – the soaring, uplifting, truly monumental Spem in alium!
£5, £15, £22.50, £30Ex Cathedra is a Town Hall Associate Artist.
The hairy bikerS’ biG niGhT ouTSaTurday 30 January, 8pM
Join The Hairy Bikers for an evening of cooking, chatting and laughs. As well as cooking, Dave recently won BBC’s Celebrity Mastermind, while Si took second place in The Weakest Link. 2009 has been busy with a 30-part BBC2 series, The Hairy Bikers’ Food Tour of Britain. Now they are embarking upon a national tour, bikes and pans at the ready.
£19.50
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk36
children’S evenTS
September - October 09
ChilDREN’S EvENTS carnival of The aniMalSSaTurday 5 deceMber, 11aM, ToWn hall
Dress in your animal outfit or bring along your animal mask for the Carnival! Bring your decorated home-made instrument and your singing voices for the nursery rhymes. Let Orchestra of the Swan and Clive Dennis Cole take you on a magical musical tour like no other.
Jambi the Tiger and Gracie the Giraffe from DZG will be joining in the fun! Children can have their faces painted to become their favourite animal!
For children under 7 and their families.
Adults £5, 60plus £4.50, Under 16s £2.50, Family Ticket £12 (4 people, minimum 1 adult)
37Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk
feaTurinG andy haMilTon and The blue noTeS
Free event in Symphony hall’s level 3 Bar
SaTurday 19 deceMber 12.30 – 3.30pM
SaTurday 9 January 12.30 – 3.30pM
Relax with Birmingham jazz legend Andy Hamilton as he brings you the finest in jazz together with his band The Blue Notes.
“Sumptuous, sensuous, gifted … Hamilton’s sound is irresistible” The Guardian
Supported by Arts Council England.
Sax in The ciTyruSh hour blueS5.30pm, Symphony hall, level 3 Bar
After a long week at work come along and unwind in the intimate, relaxing atmosphere of Symphony Hall’s Level 3 Bar and let the sensational sounds of Rush Hour Blues help you find that Friday feeling. It’s all free – and you deserve it!
“It’s free and it really is the place to be.” Birmingham Post
Presented in association with Birmingham Jazz.
4 deceMber
Sid peacock & SurGe
11 deceMber
andy derrick Jazz QuarTeT
18 deceMber
The Sub enSeMble
8 January
bryan corbeTT QuarTeT
15 January
edGar MaciaS laTin Jazz QuinTeT
22 January
adrian liTvinoff & inTerplay
29 January
delano MillS TribuTe To Grover WaShinGTon
The GreaT Gruffalo Grrrr daySaTurday 2 January, 10.30aM – 3.30pM, ToWn hall
Join us for this fun packed day of all things Gruffalo! Wild stories and crazy crafts, face painting and lots more in Town Hall’s foyers. Come along for a magical day for all the family.
The foyer events are free to those with Gruffalo tickets. If you would like to book tickets to see The Gruffalo show please see page 19 for details.
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk38 39Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk
public TourS SyMphony hallTueSday 1 deceMber, 11aM
friday 11 deceMber, 11aM
friday 8 January, 11aM
ThurSday 14 January, 11aM
Join our guides on an exciting tour around Symphony Hall, discovering the world-famous acoustics, stunning auditorium, dressing rooms and the magnificent Symphony Organ. Lasts approximately 1½ hours.
ToWn hallTueSday 8 deceMber, 11aM
SaTurday 12 deceMber, 11aM
TueSday 12 January, 11aM
Monday 18 January, 2.30pM
Come and discover this Grade 1 listed landmark, learn about performers past and present, find out about the history and how Town Hall has been painstakingly renovated. Lasts approximately 1 hour.
To book call the Box Office on 0121 780 3333.
Adults £660plus, full-time students, under-16s, unwaged, disabled patrons £5
Please advise the Box Office at the time of the booking if any member of your group will be in a wheelchair or has difficulty walking. To book a British Sign Language interpreted Public Tour or for more information, please email the THSH Education & Community Department education@thsh.co.uk
becoMe our friend
As a Friend of Town Hall and Symphony Hall you will receive exclusive benefits. With newsletters, invitations to events, ticket offers, and a Friends Booking Line, this is the perfect opportunity to find out more about our great venues. Your membership also supports the important work undertaken by Town Hall and Symphony Hall, bringing great arts experiences to everyone in our community.
Friends membership can also make the perfect gift for birthdays, anniversaries or to say thank you!
For further information on being our Friend please contact us on 0121 644 5072, or email friends@thsh.co.uk
corporaTe and privaTe hire evenTS
Town Hall and Symphony Hall welcome bookings for private and corporate events. Our two spectacular venues can provide the perfect and unique backdrop for your event. For more information please visit: www.thsh.co.uk/corporate email: corporate@thsh.co.uk or call us on 0121 644 6053.
educaTion & coMMuniTy THSH Education & Community department offers a wide range of creative opportunities, inspired by the magnificence of our world-class venues. People of all ages are invited to engage with our buildings and artistic programme through participatory projects and events.
We invite, engage and inspire over 10,000 people a year through monthly children’s events, projects in family, school & community settings, venue and exhibition tours and the Patrick Music and Multimedia Studio.
The Education & Community programme is developed and delivered in partnership with various organisations and through consultation with participants. Project Managers have a particular focus on children and young people, community engagement and disability and inclusion and use their expertise to develop high quality programmes of work.
SpoTliGhT on… Soundbounce
SoundBounce is a successful music and dance project for under-fives, taking inspiration from the shapes and sounds of the Pipe Organ. The project also aims to engage children and families with Town Hall & Symphony Hall and its programme.
THSH has been working in partnership with Ladywood Children’s Centre for a number of years, with further SoundBounce sessions running from November. Children and families work with an early years music specialist, dance artist and organist, to explore sounds, shapes and make their own music. SoundBounce introduces children and families to the organ, making it exciting and accessible, playing nursery rhymes and favourite songs.
SoundBounce families are also invited to Symphony Hall for a session of celebration and sharing. Here, children and parents are able to bounce and dance their way around the hall and have a go on the magnificent organ – much to their delight!
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk40 Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 41Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk40
bookinG inforMaTionhoW To book
A £2 fee per transaction will be charged on all bookings except purchases made in person at the Box Office.
online
www.thsh.co.uk
by phone
0121 780 3333.
in perSon
Symphony Hall Box Office, in the ICC, is open 10am–6pm (Monday - Saturday) and 12pm–4pm (Sunday).
Town Hall Box Office is open 11am–5pm (Monday - Saturday) and 12pm–4pm (Sunday).
Opening hours may be extended on concert days.
diScounTS
Discounts vary from concert to concert and are subject to availability. For selected concerts discounts are available for students and under 25s, families, over 60s, benefit recipients, wheelchair users and disabled patrons, concert package bookers and through the Birmingham Passport to Leisure scheme. Please check our website or ask for details when booking.
You can book some discounted tickets online. If you require other reduced price tickets, please contact the Box Office on 0121 780 3333.
GroupS
Discounts on selected concerts. For further information or to make a booking, phone our Group Booking Department on FREEPHONE 0800 358 7070, open 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday.
All tickets are offered subject to availability. Proof of eligibility may be required when purchasing/collecting reduced price tickets. Discounts vary per concert, please check with the Box Office.
loST TickeTS
A charge may be made for printing duplicate tickets.
concerTS by coach
These coach schemes are organised by regular concert–goers.
Telford & Newport: The Newport Music Coach, Anita Davies 01952 813340
Shropshire & Mid Wales: The Concerts Coach, Frank North 01743 790400
South Shropshire: Ludlow & District Theatre & Arts Group, Bronwen Coldwell 01584 831323
Droitwich & Bromsgrove: Bromsgrove Music Tours, Jennie McGregor Smith 01527 872422
Leominster & Hereford: Mary Seldon, 01885 482543. Email: selonda@onetel.net
daTa proTecTion
Once you have booked tickets for Town Hall or Symphony Hall your contact details will be held and processed on our Box Office database. From time to time we and the artists/performers may send you information about forthcoming events (including the artists’/performers’ events at other venues) using any one of the contact methods you have provided. Other arts organisations and companies carefully selected by Performances Birmingham may also be interested in sending you information on events and products they think will be of interest. If you do not want your details to be passed to another organisation please tell us at the time of booking. (Data Protection Act (1998). Registration No X3281 12 8.)
diSclaiMer
Information and prices in this guide were correct at the time of going to press – please check prior to booking. Unforeseen circumstances, however, may result in changes to the published programme or named artists. The timings given for each piece are for guidance and may vary in performance. Performances Birmingham Limited – a company controlled by Birmingham City Council – is a Registered Charity No. 1053937. Registered in England No. 3169600. Registered Office: Symphony Hall, Broad Street, Birmingham, UK B1 2EA.
Photography: Adrian Burrows (Symphony Hall, Thomas Trotter, Andris Nelsons), Mike Gutteridge (Symphony Hall, Town Hall), Jonathan Lee (Education), Marco Borggreve (Andris Nelsons), BBC (Sir Willard White), Simon Fowler – Decca Records (Lesley Garrett), Lawrence Watson (Ray Davies), J Henry Fair (Jonathan Biss), Sheila Rock – EMI Classics (Belcea Quartet), Sussie Ahlburg under licence to EMI Classics ( Ian Bostridge and Antonio Pappano), Monika Rittershaus (Daniel Barenboim). Design by Cogent Elliott.
SeaTinG planS
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk42 Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 43
cuSToMerS WiTh MobiliTy difficulTieS:
ToWn hall
Please note that there are steps up to the Stalls and Circle but a lift is available. The Stalls have flat access to all seats and generous space between rows. Patrons who need to remain in their wheelchairs during the performance can book spaces in the Stalls and the Side Circle. There are accessible toilets on all levels.
SyMphony hall
All levels are accessible by lift, but there are steps within the auditorium on all levels, including the Stalls – please ask when booking if you need flat access to your seats.
Areas for patrons who need to remain in their wheelchairs during the performance are located in the Stalls (and for classical concerts are
also available in the Upper Circle). There are accessible toilets on Level 3 (Stalls) and Level 5 (Upper Circle).
deaf and hard of hearinG cuSToMerS:
ToWn hall
The auditorium is equipped with a hearing loop system. Please switch your hearing aid to the T position.
SyMphony hall
The auditorium is equipped with an infrared hearing enhancement system. You need to collect a receiver to use this system. Receivers are available free of charge – please ask a steward.
blind and parTially SiGhTed cuSToMerS:
ToWn hall & SyMphony hall
Guide dogs are welcome and can remain in the auditorium or be cared for by a steward in the foyer. Please ask if you need any assistance.
parkinG for blue badGe holderS:
ToWn hall
There are three spaces directly outside Town Hall (accessed from Paradise Circus). These spaces must be booked in advance by calling the Stage Door on 0121 644 5039. Please have your vehicle registration number and Blue Badge number to hand when you call.
SyMphony hall
Accompanied wheelchair users may be dropped off in King Alfred Place outside the front entrance to the ICC. Limited parking for disabled people driving themselves is available at the ICC, and must be pre-booked by calling the Box Office on 0121 780 4949. Requests for four or more concerts should be put in writing to THSH Box Office, Symphony Hall, Broad St, Birmingham, B1 2EA. Please allow two weeks for a reply.
If you would like more information about parking for Blue Badge holders in Birmingham please call 0121 303 6644.
acceSSibiliTy
This guide is available free of charge on audiocassette or Braille (on request) from: Lynda Shaw, Sound Services, VISTA , Margaret Rd. (off Gwendolen Rd), Leicester, LE5 5FU. Tel: 0116 249 8817
Email: lynda.shaw@vistablind.org.uk Facilities for Disabled Patrons 0121 780 4949 Minicom Line 0121 644 6140
SyMphony hall
Cafe Vite is situated in the ICC Mall, open 7 days a week. Opening hours may vary.
Foyer Bars are open an hour before a concert, for the interval and post-concert on Level 3.
ToWn hall
The Coffee Bar is situated in the main foyer open 7 days a week. Opening hours may vary. Free Wi-Fi at Town Hall with any purchase from the Coffee Bar.
Foyer Bars open an hour before a concert, for the interval and post-concert on the Lower and Circle Levels.
e opSituated in the ICC Mall, THe SHop offers an exceptional range of music and gifts, open 11am to 6pm (Mon – Sat) and late on concert nights. For more information call 0121 200 2382.
dininG, drinkinG & ShoppinG
Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk44 Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 45
Performances Birmingham is one of the largest regional arts charities in the country. We invite people to discover great performances at the heart of Birmingham and participate in community arts projects at our two world-famous venues.
Ticket sales alone cannot sustain our programme; we rely on voluntary contributions to enable us to continue and expand our work. We aim to reach even more people within our communities and further develop our wide-ranging programme. We would like to thank all our supporters for their generous contributions to our charitable work over the last year.
donorS
Alan WoodfieldAnn CopseyBig Sky BannersBirmingham Decorative & Fine Arts SocietyBlackwell Charitable Trust The Chatwin TrustCoutts Charitable TrustDMC McDonald Foundation, facilitated by the IAO The Garfield Weston FoundationThe George Cadbury TrustThe GNC TrustThe Golsoncott FoundationGrantham Yorke TrustGrimmitt TrustLimoges Trust The 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust The Owen Family TrustThe Patrick TrustPeter & Jane How TrustRedman Fisher EngineeringRotary International in Great Britain and IrelandTanner Charitable TrustWolfson FoundationOur supporters, volunteers and Friends.
If you are interested in supporting Town Hall and Symphony Hall and would like further information please take a look at our website www.thsh.co.uk/page/support-us/ or contact our Development Team on 0121 644 5010 or 0121 644 5075.
You can also make a donation online or organise your own fundraising event for Town Hall and Symphony Hall through Just Giving http://justgiving.com/performbirmingham For volunteering enquiries, please email volunteers@thsh.co.uk
our parTnerS
Rush Hour Blues is presented in association with
BBC Big Band concerts presented in association withCORPORATE SPONSORS
DLA Piper
CORPORATE FRIENDS BUSINESS PARTNERS
BBC Music Magazine Classic FM Radio XL
Sax in the City is supported by
Thank you To our SupporTerS
Symphony Hall is part of the International Convention Centre on Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EA. On entering the Convention Centre through the main entrance on Centenary Square, Symphony Hall foyers are on the left. Town Hall is located in Victoria Square, Birmingham, B3 3DQ.
BY CAR - Car parking for Symphony Hall is available at Brindleyplace, beneath the National Indoor Arena (NIA) and Brindley Drive car parks. Car parking for Town Hall is available at Brindley Drive and Brunel Street car parks. For more information contact The Highways Agency on 08457 504030 or visit their website www.highways.gov.uk/roads or visit Midlands Traffic Information’s website www.help2travel.co.uk
BY RAIL - For rail information contact National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950 or visit their website www.nationalrail.co.uk There are fast and frequent rail services with free parking at many Centro stations. The Centro Hotline 0121 200 2700 (open 7.30am–10.30pm every day) can help you plan your journey.
For further information visit www.thsh.co.uk/page/planning-your-visit
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
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Broad Street
Paradise Circus
Paradise Circus
Cambridge Street
Navigation Street
Edwards Road
Edward Street
Clement Stre
et
Nelso
n Stre
et
Holiday Street
Bridge Street
Newhall StreetTo Snow Hill
Station
To Jewellery Q
uarter
To F
ive W
ays S
tatio
n
Newhall Street
Gas Street
Summer Row
A457
A38
QUEENSWAY
A38
QUEENSWAY
To Moor Street Station
Walkway
Walkway
St Vince
nt Stre
et
Camden Street
Sheepcote Street
Berkley StreetGranville Street
The ICC
New Street Station
Town Hall
Symphony Hall
Centenary Square
Victoria Square
NIA
Brindl
ey P
lace
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE MAILING SERVICE To keep up-to-date with the latest information from Town Hall and Symphony Hall join our free mailing list.
Email marketing@thsh.co.uk with details of your name, address, telephone number(s) and email address or sign up via the website www.thsh.co.uk/getconnected
To join the CBSO’s free mailing list please contact the CBSO on 0121 616 6500.
hoW To reach uS
Dec
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T
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Sym
pHo
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Ha
llTu
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Wed
2C
apsu
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Bir
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once
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BSO
Gre
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Thu
3C
BSO
Hay
dn 2
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Fri 4
Mid
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of B
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Chr
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Sat 5
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ldre
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f the
Ani
mal
s
The
Lond
on W
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Mal
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Cho
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ritis
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lice
Sym
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rche
stra
-
Pro
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Nig
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acul
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Sun
6W
alsa
ll M
usic
Ser
vice
Mon
7A
Chr
istm
as C
arol
by
Cha
rles
Dic
kens
Lunc
htim
e C
hris
tmas
Mus
ic
Tue
8C
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f Bir
min
gham
Cho
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Han
del's
Mes
siah
Onl
y M
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loud
!
Wed
9Si
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: Rob
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Re-
Expl
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Lesl
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Gal
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once
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Thu
10K
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by a
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Sym
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Fri 1
1Sc
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plus
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CB
SO F
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Cla
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Sat 1
2Ex
Cat
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Latin
Am
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Ray
Dav
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in C
once
rt
Sun
13B
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usic
Ser
vice
Salv
atio
n A
rmy
- 'R
ejoi
ce' C
hris
tmas
Car
ol C
once
rt
Mon
14
Sing
Car
ols
with
the
City
Org
anis
t
Tue
15B
irm
ingh
am C
omm
unity
Fo
unda
tion
Chr
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as P
rom
D
avid
Gra
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Wed
16
Imel
da M
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supp
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CB
SO B
iss
Pla
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Thu
17B
ritt
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info
nia
at L
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Her
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the
Gir
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The
Uku
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Orc
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ra o
f Gre
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Fri 1
8Th
e N
ew Y
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Voic
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ith th
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Big
Ban
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hite
Chr
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Sat 1
9B
lack
Voi
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Chr
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as C
once
rtC
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s by
Can
dlel
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Sun
20C
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f Bir
min
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Cho
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Chr
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eleb
ratio
nsC
BSO
Fes
tive
Favo
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s w
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lan
Titc
hmar
sh
Mon
21
Cel
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te C
hris
tmas
with
Th
omas
Spe
ncer
-Wor
tley
CB
SO F
estiv
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vour
ites
with
Ala
n Ti
tchm
arsh
Tue
22C
anol
dir
Cho
ir -
A C
hris
tmas
Fan
tasi
aC
BSO
Fes
tive
Favo
urite
s w
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lan
Titc
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sh
Wed
23
The
Gru
ffal
o (1
.30p
m &
3.3
0pm
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hris
tmas
Car
ol S
inga
long
Thu
24Th
e G
ruff
alo
(11a
m &
1.3
0pm
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hris
tmas
Eve
Cla
ssic
s
Sun
27Th
e G
ruff
alo
(11a
m, 1
.30p
m, 3
.30p
m)
Last
Nig
ht o
f the
Chr
istm
as P
rom
s
Mon
28
The
Gru
ffal
o (1
1am
& 1
.30p
m)
The
Rea
l Dea
l Com
edy
Jam
Chr
istm
as S
peci
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mpl
y G
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win
Tue
29Th
e G
ruff
alo
(11a
m &
1.3
0pm
)A
Nig
ht a
t the
Ope
ra
Wed
30
The
Gru
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1am
& 1
.30p
m)
The
Soun
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Mus
ical
s
Thu
31Th
e G
ruff
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(11a
m &
1.3
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s Ev
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(5pm
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Wed
28
New
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Fri 1
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Sat 2
The
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, 3.3
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lenn
Mill
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Sun
3Th
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ruff
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(11a
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Sund
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noon
at t
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Sat 9
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SO N
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Mon
11
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Lunc
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Wed
13
CB
SO B
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Thu
14M
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CB
SO B
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beliu
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Fri 1
5M
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Sat 1
6N
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& E
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- St
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Sun
17Su
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Mor
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Cof
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Con
cert
Mon
18
Lunc
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Con
cert
Wed
20
CB
SO E
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's E
nigm
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Thu
21B
ritt
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info
nia
at L
unch
CB
SO S
choo
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once
rt -
Eni
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Vari
atio
ns
The
Imag
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Vill
age
Fri 2
2Sc
hube
rt fr
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and
Pap
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Sat 2
3R
each
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cert
- T
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hari
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BSO
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Eni
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Sun
24H
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Mem
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Sing
Liv
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Sing
the
Cla
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s an
d C
lass
ical
Roc
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Mon
25
Lunc
htim
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Con
cert
Tom
Pax
ton
Thu
28C
BSO
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Alp
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Sym
phon
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Sat 3
0Th
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31XL
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Part
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Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk
The Gruffalo™
Wednesday 23 December 2009 - Sunday 3 January 2010
Find the Gruffalo!This big scary monster is heading to Town Hall this Christmas! How many Gruffalos can you find inside the What’s On Guide? For the answer visit www.thsh.co.uk/the-gruffalo-at-town-hall-09
The Gruffalo © 1999 Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler. The Gruffalo word mark and logo are trade marks of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler and used under licence. Licensed by Magic Light Pictures Ltd.
Supported by
AT TOWN HALLBIRMINGHAM
Town Hall renovation also funded by
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