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WELCOME TO THE NEW 2015-2016 SEASON AT THE OCTAGON

It is my pleasure to introduce this programmeof plays and let you know about the manyexciting developments taking place at theOctagon.

Whilst our productions on stage continue togo from strength to strength, our work offstage is also extending far further intocommunities, schools, colleges and othertheatres. We are proud to be a place whereideas and imaginations grow for so manypeople. In order for us to continue to thrive itit is vital that we update our building and wehave already begun ambitious plans for a re-development ensuring it remains fit forpurpose, is fully accessible for all, and hasmore facilities for children and young people.

This year we are launching a unique degreein Theatre with the University of Bolton whichwill not only support the next generation oftheatre professionals but provide investmentin productions for all audiences to enjoy.David Thacker, who has been outstanding asour Artistic Director for the past six years, isnow stepping down to take on a new role asProfessor of Theatre at the University.

I’m delighted to announce that ElizabethNewman will succeed David as ArtisticDirector. Of course Elizabeth is no stranger toBolton audiences, having been AssociateDirector here for several years. She is currentlyplanning her first line-up of productions,which will be announced this autumn.Already it promises to offer compellingstories and wonderful theatrical moments,produced with a range of world-class theatremakers.

As we look to an exciting future it feelsappropriate to reflect and celebrate theTheatre’s past. This season of productionsdraws upon many of the talents andhallmarks of the Octagon’s previous work,and in particular, we showcase Bolton’s mostfamous playwrights Bill Naughton and JimCartwright. Productions of The Family Way,Two and the world premiere of its sequel Two 2 all have their roots in Bolton, as doesthe bittersweet comedy Martha, Josie andthe Chinese Elvis, which premiered at theOctagon sixteen years ago.

The Octagon’s reputation for classic drama isset to continue with Henrik Ibsen’s An Enemyof the People, adapted by Arthur Miller andstaged to coincide with the Miller centenary.And we are reviving our association with theworks of Roald Dahl with a new productionof The BFG which I’m sure will delight all ages.

At the Octagon we’re passionate aboutmaking theatre accessible for everyone. Thisseason we’re continuing to provide relaxedperformances, which offer a welcomingenvironment for a wide range of people,particularly those with an autistic spectrumcondition or learning disability. And we arealso introducing regular captionedperformances. Captioning displays the wordson screen and gives access to deaf and hardof hearing customers. You can find moreinformation about both captioned andrelaxed performances on pages 28 and 29.

We also have a varied programme ofadditional events, including new plays, musicand children’s theatre: all selected to providea rich variety of experiences for all of ouraudiences.

I look forward to seeing you at the Octagonsoon, and sharing this wonderful journeywith you.

Roddy GauldChief Executive

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noël coward’s Private Lives, directed by Elizabeth newman. Photo: ian tilton

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fraCtion of tHe priCe!With an octagon Season ticket youmake significant savings on the priceof your tickets as well as enjoyingsome great benefits. as a Season ticket holder you cansecure the best available seats duringan early booking period before ticketsgo on general sale, there is flexibilityto change dates at any time, and theoption to transfer tickets to family andfriends. You will also benefit fromdiscounted studio theatre offersthroughout the season.

Shows included in the Season ticket offer: ● the family way● an enemy of the people● two● two 2● Martha, Josie and the Chinese elvis

Can you add a donation when you purchase your Season ticket? The Octagon Theatre is a Registered Charity (no.248833) that is committed to producing world classdrama and creating life-changing projects. By donating to the octagon you’ll enable us to work with awide range of our local community, encourage a passion forlive theatre in young people, and support those withadditional needs to access workshops, productions andtraining.

Simply add your donation to the total when purchasing yourSeason ticket at the Box office, or go towww.octagonbolton.co.uk/support-us to donate directlyonline. if you can, please gift aid your donation – allowing usto benefit even more from your support at no extra cost to you.

Thank you, you’re amazing! 5

pLatinuM SeaSontiCket5 shows for £105

Valid for any performance.

also includes: free parking, freeprogrammes, 10% off food in café eight,10% off drinks in the bar, plus regularadded value offers.

goLdSeaSontiCket5 shows for just £80Valid for any performance,including Saturdays, except thefinal Saturday evening. also includes: programmes for just £2, 10%off food in café eight, plus regular addedvalue offers.

All Season Ticket holders have theoption to add the Octagon festiveshow, The BFG, for just £16 – saving £7 off top price tickets.

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auditoriumseating plan

Performance TimesEvenings: 7.30pm5pm performance: Mon 14 Sep2pm matinees: Sat 5, Sat 12, Wed 16, Sat 26 Sep

Ticket Prices £27 – £10.50Discounts available including SEaSon tickEtS, groups, schools and young person’s £6tickets. See page 30 for full list of discounts.

Auditoriumseating plan

Optimistic newlyweds Arthur and JennyFitton are young, in love, and excited toembark on the rest of their livestogether. But the wedding night hasn’tgone well and their married life isalready getting off to a false start. Stillliving in the Fitton family home, with Mrand Mrs Fitton on one side of thebedroom, and interfering brother Geoffon the other, the happy couple’s

expectations are slowly becoming ashopeless as their love life.

Bill Naughton’s The Family Way is a funnyand intimate portrayal of life, family, andlove in 1960s Bolton. This social comedyilluminates the complex relationshipswithin families, and the tender andprecious ties that exist between parentsand their children.

Bill Naughton’s work has enjoyed hugesuccess on both the stage and screen;he captured iconic cool in the worldfamous Alfie, and celebrated Bolton inlocal favourite Spring and Port Wine -which is still one of the Octagon’s best-selling shows in its almost 48 yearhistory. In 1966 The Family Way receivedcritical acclaim when it was released as afeature film starring real life father anddaughter, John and Hayley Mills.

Fri 4 September – Sat 3 October 2015

Octagon Theatre Bolton presents

Box office: 01204 520661 www.octagonbolton.co.uk

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Special Diary DatesBargain Nights: Fri 4, Mon 7 Sep (tickets £17.50 – £10.50)Meet the Director and cast:Mon 14 Sep (free, post show)Investigate Day: Sat 26 Sep (£20, inc. matinee ticket) – full day event around the themes and issues of the play, see page 28 for more information.

Audio Described: tue 15 Sep, 7.30pmBSL: thu 24 Sep, 7.30pmNEW! Captioned Performance: thu 1 oct, 7.30pmthe spoken word displayed on a unit to give access for deaf, deafened and hard of hearing customers.

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Performance TimesEvenings: 7.30pm5pm performance: Mon 19 oct2pm Matinees: Fri 9, Wed 14, Wed 21, Sat 24 oct



Octagon Theatre Bolton and the University of Bolton present


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Special Diary DatesBargain Nights: thu 8, Fri 9, Mon 12 oct (tickets £17.50 – £10.50)Meet the Director and cast: Mon 19 oct (free, post show)Investigate Day: Sat 24 oct (£20, inc. matinee ticket) – full day event around the themes and issues of the play, seepage 28 for more information.

Audio Described: thu 15 oct, 7.30pmNEW! Captioned Performance: thu 29 oct, 7.30pmthe spoken word displayed on a unit to give access for deaf, deafened and hardof hearing customers.

Thu 8 – Sat 31 October 2015

“The majority is never right until it does right.”

In a thriving spa town in Norway, Dr ThomasStockmann, a well-respected scientist, makes thealarming discovery that the water on which thetown’s prosperity depends is contaminated -instead of healing people the municipal baths aremaking them sick.

Under the illusion that he will be a hero,Stockmann publicly announces his findings but isimmediately faced with opposition from thosewith vested interests, and even his own brother -the Mayor - when the economic future of thecommunity is suddenly placed under threat. In hisstruggle to do the right thing, Dr Stockmann risksdestroying his own career and sacrificing hisfamily’s future.

An Enemy of the People is a compelling andgripping play that explores the conflict betweenthe need to stand up for the truth when facedwith the political and economic pressures thatdrive the agendas of those in power.

Ibsen’s An Enemy of the People was adapted byArthur Miller in the 1950s during the repressiveclimate of the McCarthy witch hunts. In 1989David Thacker worked on the play with ArthurMiller which was then presented at the Young Vicbefore transferring to the West End, initiating thestart of a close working relationship between the pair.

The staging of this adaptation will form part of thisyear’s centenary celebrations, marking theanniversary of Arthur Miller’s birth on October17th, 1915. On Sunday 1 November David Thackerwill host an event discussing and exploring thework of Arthur Miller - see page 20 for details.

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“Any child not delighted byThe BFG must have a headfilled with squashed flies and deserves to be fed for a year on disgustatioussnozzcumbers.” The Guardian

Octagon Theatre Bolton presents

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Performance TimesMornings: 10.30am* Matinees: 2pm*, 2.15pm* Evenings: 7pm** Performances vary daily, for details seeperformance diary on page 29.

Ticket Prices £23 – £9.50Discounts available including SEaSon tickEtS, groups and schools. See page 29 for full informationon schools, groups and other discounts.



Director: Sarah Esdaile

Fri 13 November 2015 – Sat 9 January 2016

This swishwifflingly scrumdiddlyumptious wonderlandwill be brought to life on the Octagon stage - filled withgood dreams, greedy giants, snozzcumbers,frobscottles, and even the Queen of England!

Unable to fall asleep in her bedroom in the villageorphanage, Sophie spies a huge and mysterious figureblowing something into bedroom windows down thestreet. Before she has a chance to hide, the giantsnatches up the little girl and whisks her away to hishome in Giant Country. But this giant is unlike theothers Sophie comes across in this exhilarating tale; theBFG is funny, friendly and full of surprises, and it’s notlong before he and Sophie embark upon all sorts ofexciting adventures, becoming best friends in theprocess!

Using David Wood’s exceptional adaptation of theclassic children’s book, the Octagon Theatre will delightand surprise audiences of all ages with an exciting andstimulating set, and a brand new director and cast.

Visit the Official Roald Dahl Website, which is packed withinformation and up to date news from the World of Roald Dahl, byclicking through to www.roalddahl.com

For more information about David Wood, visitwww.davidwood.org.uk

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Special Diary DatesRelaxed Performances: Fri 8 Jan 2016, 11am & 7pmSee page 29 for more information about relaxed Performances at the octagon.age guidance: 5 years and overWe do not admit babes in arms (children under 18 months)

Audio Described: Fri 4 Dec, 7pmBSL: Fri 11 Dec, 7pmNEW! Captioned performance: thu 17 Dec, 7pmthe spoken word displayed on a unit to give access for deaf, deafened and hard of hearing customers.

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Performance TimesEvenings: 7.30pm 5pm performance: Mon 1 Feb2pm matinees: Fri 22, Sat 30 Jan, Wed 3 Feb

Ticket Prices £27 – £10.50Discounts available including SEaSon tickEtS, groups,schools and young person’s £6 tickets. See page 30 forfull list of discounts.


Special Diary DatesBargain Nights: thu 21, Fri 22, Mon 25 Jan (tickets £17.50 - £10.50)Meet the Director and cast: tue 23 Feb (free, post show)Investigate Day: Sat 20 Feb (£20, inc. matinee ticket) – full day event around the themes and issues of Two and thesequel production Two 2, see page 28 for more information about investigate Days.

Audio Described: tue 2 Feb, 7.30pmBSL: thu 28 Jan, 7.30pmNEW! Captioned Performance: thu 4 Feb, 7.30pmthe spoken word displayed on a unit to give access for deaf, deafened and hard of hearing customers.


“There’s been a lot of copping-offs round thatside, two fallings-out here, and a fight, threeproposals of marriage round there, and abirth in a snug. And it’s nowhere near lastorders yet!” Landlord, Two

Set over one eventful night in a pub in theNorth of England, Two is a play aboutpeople. People in their extraordinary, andordinary, everyday lives, and the strengthof the human spirit - stronger thananything on offer behind the bar.

From opening time to last orders, all walksof life pass through this pub, and thecomings and goings are watched over bythe all-seeing, and all knowing, proprietors- the landlord and landlady at the heartand soul of their local. So get yourself adrink and settle in, it’ll all be happeningtonight…

First performed at the Octagon in 1989,the Sunday Times called the play a“brilliantly, surrealistically and comicallypoetic” piece. The production won theManchester Evening News Best New PlayAward before transferring to the Young Vicin London. Subsequently this ever popularplay has been revived twice at the Octagonover the years.

Following the run of Two the Octagon willpresent a world premiere by JimCartwright of Two 2 - revisiting the samepub, with characters both old and new.Turn the page to find out more!

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Thu 21 January – Sat 6 February 2016

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Performance TimesEvenings: 7.30pm 5pm performance: Mon 15 Feb2pm matinees: thu 11, Sat 13, Wed 17, Sat 20, Wed 24, Sat 27 Feb

Ticket Prices £27 – £10.50Discounts available including SEaSon tickEtS, groups,schools and young person’s £6 tickets. See page 30 forfull list of discounts.

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“Quote” Paper


Special Diary DatesBargain Nights:Wed 10, thu 11, Fri 12 Feb (tickets £17.50 - £10.50)Meet the Director and cast: tue 23 Feb (free, post show) Investigate Day: Sat 20 Feb (£20, inc. matinee ticket) – full day event around the themes and issues of Two and thesequel production Two 2, see page 28 for more information about investigate Days.

Audio Described: tue 16 Feb, 7.30pmNEW! Captioned Performance: Fri 26 Feb, 7.30pmthe spoken word displayed on a unit to give access for deaf, deafened and hard of hearing customers.

Box office: 01204 520661 www.octagonbolton.co.uk 15

From the writer of The Rise and Fall of LittleVoice, Bed, Road and Two comes the worldpremiere production of Two 2; JimCartwright’s brand new play that revisitsthe lives, loves and laughs of regulars in aNorthern boozer.

Time may have passed but the pub is stillstanding - just. Punters are now few and farbetween, and despite all attempts at quiznights, karaoke and pub grub it could soonbe last orders for the struggling landlordand lady.

Wed 10 – Sat 27 February 2016

At odds with one another, but holding ittogether one shift at a time, their lives havebecome as bitter as the ale they serve. Butwhen a once in a life time opportunitypresents itself in the form of a one wayticket out of there, will either of them havethe courage to turn their backs on the pub,and most importantly, each other?

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Performance TimesEvenings: 7.30pm5pm performance: Mon 21 Mar2pm matinees: Sat 12, Wed 16, Sat 19, Wed 23,Wed 30 Mar


Octagon Theatre Bolton and Hull Truck Theatre present


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Special Diary DatesBargain Nights: thu 10, Fri 11, Mon 14 Mar (tickets £17.50 - £10.50)Meet the Director and cast: Fri 11 Mar (free, post show)Investigate Day: Sat 19 Mar (£20, inc. matinee ticket) – full day event around the themes and issues of the play, see page 28 for more information.

Audio Described: thu 24 Mar, 7.30pmNew! Captioned Performance: thu 17 Mar, 7.30pmthe spoken word displayed on a unit to give access for deaf, deafened and hard of hearingcustomers.there will be no performances on Fri 25 or Mon 28 Mar.

“Reality whipped into a delightful froth… the audience stood and cheered.”

the independent on Martha, Josie and theChinese Elvis when it was last performed at theoctagon in 1999.

In a suburban semi on a cold wintersevening, a collection of family, friendsand acquaintances gather to celebrate afortieth birthday. There’s Josie, the fortyyear old dominatrix conducting businessfrom her living room and in no mood tocelebrate; her daughter Brenda-Mariewith a wisdom beyond her years; Martha- Josie’s devout Irish cleaner who’s nonethe wiser and happy to keep it that way;and, of course, Lionel - Josie’s most loyalclient with a heart of gold and a secretyearning to wear ladies dresses.

But no party would be complete withoutentertainment, and for once Josie has thenight off. Elvis impersonator Timothy Wonghas entered the building and only thearrival of a very unexpected guest couldupstage the King himself.

Martha, Josie and the Chinese Elvispremiered at the Octagon Theatre in 1999and was received with critical acclaim andregular standing ovations. Described by theFinancial Times as “one of our mostaccomplished and entertaining youngplaywrights”, Charlotte Jones has created aquirky collection of characters whoseworlds collide on one fateful night thatcould ultimately change all of their livesforever. Heartfelt, poignant, and funny inequal measure, Martha, Josie and theChinese Elvis captures the glimmer ofpromise and potential that lies in all of us -shining a spotlight on the opportunitiesthat are out there, if only we choose to takethem.

Thu 10 March – Sat 2 April 2016

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An Interactive StorytellingPlaygroundCreated by Elizabeth Newman

Expect the unexpected from theOctagon Theatre! As part ofBolton’s Food and Drink Festivalwe’re taking our interactivestorytelling sessions to a wholenew playground.

Come and join in the fun-filledfairy tale adventures – poppingup where you’d least expect themacross the town centre. MeetCinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk,Beauty and the Beast and manymore. You'll experience all of the

best moments of these belovedstories portrayed by actors andmusicians. There‘ll be live music,singing and even some dancing!

Our pop-up fairy tales will beappearing at various locations allover Bolton town centrethroughout the weekend. Thisevent is completely FREE – wehope to see you along the way!

Fri 28 – Mon 31 August 201512-2pm, various locations aroundBolton FREE – no ticket required, just look outfor the pop-up theatre throughout theweekend!

Follow the Octagon on Twitter forclues of where to find us!@octagontheatre

Like 70s music? You’ll love thislive concert celebrating thegolden age of pop!

Glam rock greats, disco hits,power ballads and party anthemsfrom The Sweet, T. Rex, Queen,Elton John, 10CC, David Essex,Suzi Quatro, David Cassidy, ELO,The Carpenters, The Osmonds,Bay City Rollers and more. Thisfull live band has performed withMike Oldfield, Asia and Ultravox.

Have fond memories of Pan’sPeople and Eurovision? LukeSkywalker and Saturday NightFever? Danny and Sandy, and

Dastardly and Muttley? If theanswer’s ‘yes’ then this is theshow for you…come and havethe top of the pops time of your life!

Songs include: We Are theChampions, Don’t Go Breaking MyHeart, Mr Blue Sky, Grease, GonnaMake You a Star, Waterloo, DevilGate Drive, Bye Bye Baby, Hot Love,Daddy Cool, Things We Do ForLove, If I Can’t Have You, Xanadu,Goodbye to Love, Daydreamer,Substitute, Puppy Love, Silver Ladyand more!

www.easytheatres.com

Sat 29 August 2015 Main Auditorium, 8pm£18 (£16)

EVENTS

Octagon Theatre Bolton and Bolton Council present

FAIRY TALES ON FOOT Entertainers Management Ltd presents

SOLID GOLD 70sSHOW ®

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The Lancashire Boys is a newproject to commemorate thelives of the Bolton soldiers whofought in the First World War.

Supported by the HeritageLottery Fund this project is apartnership between theOctagon Theatre, DBBC (Diversityin Barrier-Breaking Communities)and Bolton Amateur TheatreSocieties (BATS).

Over a period of one year fourlocal writers have been selectedto produce four one-act playsthat have been directed byemerging talent from BATS. Using

actors from across thirty-twotheatrical societies, this showcaseevent will be a remarkablecollaboration in remembrance ofthe lives that were lost during theGreat War.

Sun 13 September 2015Main Auditorium, 2pm & 7.30pm

FREE but advance booking isrecommended to guarantee yourtickets

By Kay AdsheadIn association with Mama Quilla Productions

Performed by Krissi BohnDirected by Zoë WatermanDesigned by Sophia Lovell Smith

An African woman arrives in astrange country fleeing for herlife, seeking safety and asylum.Despite having committed nocrime she is indefinitely confined,interrogated, humiliated andabused. She witnesses thecruelty of the authorities andtheir casual disregard for anindividual’s human rights.

This strange country is England.

Krissi Bohn (who played JennaKamara in ITV’s Coronation Street)performs this powerful, poeticand heart-wrenching play –bringing to life the 51 sharplyetched characters who retell theexperiences of this youngwoman.

Please note that this productioncontains strong language andscenes that may be unsuitable foryounger audiences. Age guidance: 16 years.

“Essential watching … Krissi Bohnacts to vividly realised andblistering perfection”★★★★The Independent

Thu 24 September 2015 Studio, 7.30pm£10 (£8)

Octagon Theatre Bolton, DBBC and Bolton Amateur Theatre Societies present

THE LANCASHIRE BOYS Curtis Productions & Theatre by the Lake present

THE BOGUS WOMAN

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Based on the novel by Liz JensenDirected by Jeni Draper

Using fingersmiths’ exceptional visual storytelling styleworking in British Sign Language and spoken English,three actors tell the story of Gloria, now in her 80s, whois struggling with questions being asked of her about atime she has tried to forget. The impact the SecondWorld War had on relationships and family is told withpassion and humour as Gloria comes to terms with herpast.

Contains scenes of a sexual and adult nature, recommended forages 16+

Thu 1 & Fri 2 October 2015Studio, Thu 7.30pm, Fri 2pm & 7.30pm£10 (£8)

There will be a free post show discussion on Thu 1 Oct.

Join David Thacker and Christopher Bigsbyin an event exploring, discussing andcelebrating the work of Arthur Miller.

Director David Thacker, who had a closeworking relationship with Arthur Miller, willbe joined by actors, theatre professionalsand academics, including ChristopherBigsby; an award winning academic, novelistand biographer. Christopher has publishedsome fifty books, including his recent two-volume biography of Arthur Miller.

Full details, including times, ticket prices and a listof speakers and guests will be confirmed in theforthcoming months.

Sun 1 November 2015

Bernard Wrigley and The Oldham Tinkers –two of Lancashire’s best loved performers – areback by popular demand at the Octagon.

The Oldham Tinkers will share their classic folk songs and world music, along with the very silly and entertaining stories that they'rerenowned for.

Bernard Wrigley has been delighting audiencesfor more than 40 years now. Bernard will bringhis unique blend of songs, stories, monologuesand guitar playing to the Octagon, as well assome songs performed together with theTinkers!

Fri 6 November 2015Main Auditorium, 7.30pm£15

BERNARD WRIGLEY & THE OLDHAM TINKERS

Save The Date!

A CELEBRATION OF ARTHUR MILLER

fingersmiths co-production with New Wolsey Theatre present

WAR CRIMES FOR THE HOME

EVENTS

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An all-new spectacular thatbrings together the UK’s No1Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jnrand Frank Sinatra for the firsttime ever in this “swingsational”hit show.

The brand-new productioncombines the sound of big bandswing with the charisma,panache and swagger of theoriginal trio, featuring an all-starcast including: Dean Martin freshfrom a triumphant portrayal ofDino, both in the West End andinternational touring

productions; Sammy Davis Jnrwho toured the UK playingSammy and performed alongsideJudy Carmichael at New York’sfamous Rainbow Rooms. And, of course, Frank Sinatra, whoplayed Ol’ Blue Eyes at the WestEnd’s Strand, Savoy and AdelphiTheatres and on UK, Europeanand US tours.

With all the patter andrazzamatazz of the Rat Pack’sinfamous live stage show, join theUK’s number one Dean, Sammyand Frank live concertextravaganza.

www.easytheatres.com

Thu 26 November 2015Main Auditorium, 8pm£18 (£16)

Octagon Theatre Bolton in association with Bolton International Writing Project present

THE BEST OF BOLTON

Entertainers Management Ltd presents

RAT PACK LIVECELEBRATING THE CENTENARY OF SINATRA!

The Octagon is passionate aboutdeveloping new writing. Join usfor an evening of outstandingoriginal work by Bolton writers.Head of the Octagon’s newwriting department ElizabethNewman will select the piecesand direct professional actors in aperformance showcasing thework.

Contains occasional strong languageand scenes of a sexual nature.

Sat 7 November 2015 Main Auditorium, 1.15pm & 7.30pm£5

At the Octagon we believe that everyone should have theopportunity to experience life-changing theatre, either on stage orin the many local community and education settings we work in.Our donors are the people who really help to make this happen.

Can you help us to create more life changing moments?

Become an Octagon Donor by giving a gift of under £10 permonth and you’ll…

- Be invited to our exclusive season launch event and have the opportunity to book tickets before anyone else

- Receive an exclusive biannual newsletter, sharing behind the scenes stories and news of where your donations have impacted on our work

Become an Octagon Donor Plus by giving a gift of £10 per monthor over and in addition to the above we’ll also…

- Recognise your gift on our website and in a selection of programmes

- Give you greater access to the Theatre with exclusive Octagon Donor offers

lovE thE octagon? ShoW Your SuPPort anD hElP kEEP thEatrE thriving!

FILL IN A LOVE OCTAGON FORM TODAY AND YOU’LL HELP US MAKE GREAT THINGS HAPPEN…THANK YOU!22

‘In the past people have picked on me and been reallyhorrible to me, they say things because I’m from a bigfamily and we don’t have much money. Switch has taughtme new skills about myself. I think because I have beengoing to Switch it’s given me more and more confidence totry new things.’

Switch Project Participant

The Octagon Theatre is a Registered Charity (248833) that relies on the support of our funders, sponsors and donors. To find out more visit www.octagonbolton.co.uk/donate-to-the-octagon or contact our Campaigns Manager, on 01204 556505, or email [email protected]

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This guarantee should be detached and retained by the payer.

The D

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Guarantee

• This Guarantee is offered by all banks and building societies that accept instructions to pay D

irect Debits

• If there are any changes to the amount, date or frequency of your D

irect Debit O

ctagon Theatre Trust Limited w

ill notify you 10 w

orking days in advance of your account being debited or as otherwise agreed. If you request O

ctagon Theatre Trust Limited to

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ation of the amount and date w

ill be given to you at the time of the request.

• If an error is made in the paym

ent of your Direct D

ebit, by Octagon Theatre Trust Lim

ited or your bank or building society, you are entitled to a full and im

mediate refund of the am

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hen Octagon Theatre Trust Lim

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bank or building society to pay by D

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using a ball point pen and send it to:

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25

Get involved with the OctagonLearning and ParticipationDepartment: • Youth Theatre• Community Projects• Holiday Workshops• Volunteering• EducationThe Octagon works with people ofall ages to create stimulating,challenging, and culturally relevanteducational programmes thatencourage creativity and nurture alove of theatre. The team of artsprofessionals lead a range ofprojects at the Octagon Theatreand across Bolton in schools andcommunity venues.

Our work with young people and inthe community affects thousandsof lives every year and is recognisedboth locally and nationally.

To find out more call 01204 556501or visit www.octagonbolton.co.ukand click on ‘Get Involved’.

gEt involvED

26

Café eight is situated on the ground floor of the Octagon Theatre. Open from9am every day except Sunday, it’s the perfect place to meet for morning coffee,enjoy a leisurely lunch or have pre-theatre dinner and drinks with friends.Visit www.octagonbolton.co.uk/come-dine-with-us to see our latest menus -our evening menu changes with each main house production. Season Ticket holders save 10% on all food and non-alcoholic drinks in eight .

Open all day Monday – Saturday from 9am

Fresh coffeeBreakfastsHot tasty lunchesSandwiches & soupsStonebaked pizzasHomemade cakesPre-theatre diningEat in or take away

27

PrE-thEatrE Dining

The perfect venue for a pre-theatre meal. Enjoy threedelicious courses, a freshly baked pizza, or just a lightbite before the show.

Visit www.octagonbolton.co.uk/come-dine-with-us for current menu options. SeasonTicket holders save 10% on all food and non-alcoholic drinks in eight.

For convenient pre-theatre dining, it’s advisable tobook - call the Box Office on 01204 520661 to reserveyour table.

Bar

The Octagon Bar is open for theatre-goers anhour before the performance. Situated on thefirst floor, it enjoys beautiful views over Le MansCrescent.

Why not beat the queues by pre-ordering yourinterval drinks? Just order at the bar before theshow starts.

rooM hirE anDhoSPitalitY

The Octagon Theatre is the perfect venue forprivate events. From short meetings toconferences, pre-show buffets to champagnereceptions, day and night, the Octagon has twoversatile, well equipped spaces for hire atcompetitive rates.

Just email [email protected] tomake an enquiry.

28

The Octagon is delighted to introduce regularcaptioned performances of our main seasonproductions for the very first time! Duringcaptioned performances the spoken word isdisplayed on a unit to give access for deaf, deafenedand hard of hearing customers. There will be acaptioned performance for each of the main seasonplays, with details of the dates listed on theindividual show pages in this brochure.

To ensure you get the best possible seats forcaptioned performances, with a great view of thecaptioned spoken word, we recommend that youspeak to one of our Box Office assistantsbefore booking for advice on whichseats to choose. Call 01204 520661 formore information.

nEW! caPtionEDPErForMancES

invEStigatE DaYS

If you’re aged 17-25 you can takeadvantage of our Young Person’s £6Standby Ticket. Book on the day ofthe performance and pay just £6.Proof of ID will be required, subjectto availability, maximum of 2 ticketsper booking, only applies to seatsin bands B or C. Call 01204 520661to book.

17 - 25?tickEtS FroMJuSt £6!

Join actors, directors and theatre specialists in full day eventsexploring and discussing some of the burning issues behind theOctagon’s programme of plays. Investigate Days start at 10.30amand include a matinee performance.

Investigate Days are £20, or just £6.50 for the morning sessionwithout the matinee ticket. You can also order lunch in advance –add soup and a sandwich for just £5.50!

See individual show pages for forthcoming Investigate Day dates.

“The most important discussion ontheatre I have ever attended” Award-winning playwright David Edgar on his experience of Investigate.

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BOX OFFICE 01204 520661 WWW.OCTAGONBOLTON.CO.UK

29

Fri 13 Nov 7.00Sat 14 Nov 2.15 7.00Mon 16 Nov 10.30 Tue 17 Nov 10.30 Wed 18 Nov 10.30 Thu 19 Nov 10.30 Fri 20 Nov 10.30 7.00Sat 21 Nov 2.15 7.00Mon 23 Nov 10.30 Tue 24 Nov 10.30 Wed 25 Nov 10.30 2.15 Thu 26 Nov 10.30 Fri 27 Nov 10.30 7.00Sat 28 Nov 2.15 7.00Mon 30 Nov 10.30 2.15 Tue 01 Dec 10.30 2.15 Wed 02 Dec 10.30 2.15 Thu 03 Dec 10.30 2.15 Fri 04 Dec 10.30 7.00Sat 05 Dec 2.00 7.00Mon 07 Dec 10.30 2.15 Tue 08 Dec 10.30 2.15 Wed 09 Dec 10.30 2.15 Thu 10 Dec 10.30 2.15 Fri 11 Dec 10.30 7.00Sat 12 Dec 2.00 7.00Mon 14 Dec 10.30 2.15 Tue 15 Dec 10.30 2.15 Wed 16 Dec 10.30 2.15 Thu 17 Dec 10.30 7.00Fri 18 Dec 2.00 7.00Sat 19 Dec 2.00 7.00Mon 21 Dec 2.00 7.00Tue 22 Dec 2.00 7.00Wed 23 Dec 2.00 7.00Thu 24 Dec 2.00 7.00Fri 25 Dec CLOSEDSat 26 Dec 2.00 7.00Mon 28 Dec 2.00 7.00Tue 29 Dec 2.00 7.00Wed 30 Dec 2.00 7.00Thu 31 Dec 2.00 7.00Fri 01 Jan CLOSEDSat 02 Jan 2.00 7.00Mon 04 Jan 10.30 Tue 05 Jan 10.30 Wed 06 Jan 10.30 Thu 07 Jan 10.30 Fri 08 Jan 11.00 7.00Sat 09 Jan 2.15 7.00

For more

information on

The BFG

see pages

10 and 11

Peak Performances Off-Peak

Band A Stalls £23 £19.50 £21 adult concession £17.50 adult concession £16 child concession £15 child concession

Band B £15 £13.50 £14 adult concession £12.50 adult concession £10.50 child concession £9.50 child concession

Small Groups 4-9 £16 £15

Schools & Groups 10+ Adult: £15 Adult: £14.50 16 and under: £12 16 and under: £10.50

Young Person Standby (17-25)** N/A £5

Side view stalls and gallery*

*Gallery - A two row balcony where you lean forward slightly to look down to see. May be arestricted view for anyone under 9 years old.

** Valid for 17-25 years. Proof of ID will be required. Performance must be on the same day thebooking is made, only applies to seats in Band B, subject to availability (max 2 per booking).

Special Diary DatesAudio Described: Fri 4 Dec, 7pm BSL: Fri 11 Dec, 7pmNEW! Captioned performance: Thu 17 Dec, 7pm

Relaxed PerformancesFri 8 Jan 2016, 11am & 7pm

Relaxed Performances are specifically designed towelcome into theatres people with an autisticspectrum condition, learning disability, a sensory orcommunication need. Or indeed anyone who feelsthat they, or their family, would enjoy a more relaxedenvironment. They have a less formal, more supportive atmosphereto reduce anxiety levels. Thereis a relaxed attitude to audience noise and movement,and small changes to the sound levels and lightingeffects. There are also other provisions such as visualstories (an info pack emailed in advance with fulldetails of what to expect), a chill-out space, and extrastaff around to offer a helping hand.

All tickets for Relaxed Performances are £9.50with free essential carer tickets for those withadditional needs, plus 1 free ticket for every 10tickets booked.

Dates highlighted in RED indicate Peak Performances

Dates highlighted in GREEN indicate Relaxed Performances

1 free adult for every 10 children! Reserve now and pay just twomonths before your visit. Save 10%if you pay by 31 July 2015!

FRI 13 NOVEMBER 2015 - SAT 9 JANUARY 2016

30

tickEtSConcessions are available to age 16years and under, full-time students, age60 years and over, jobseekers, disabledpatrons and their companion, Equity,NCA cardholders. All discounts aresubject to availability.

Please note some plays may not besuitable for younger audiences, pleasediscuss any requirements with the BoxOffice on 01204 520661.

We do not admit babes in arms(children under 18 months).

* Valid for 17–25 years. Proof of ID willbe required. Performance must be onthe same day the booking is made,only applies to seats in bands B or C,subject to availability (maximum of 2tickets per booking).

Mon-Thu eves Matinees Fri eves Sat eves (7.30pm) (2pm, 5pm) Bargain Nights

Band A Stalls £25 £27 £23 £18 £17.50Concession £22 N/A £20 £15.50 N/A

Band B Stalls and front row gallery £22 £24 £20 £15 £14.50Concession £19 N/A £17 £13 N/A

Band C Gallery £14.50 £18 £13.50 £12 £10.50Concession £12 N/A £11 £11 N/A

Band A £17 Band A £13 Band A £13 Groups 10+ Band B £16 Band B £12 Band B £12 Plus 1 free organiser ticket N/A N/A Band C £11 Band C £11 Band C £11

Band A £16 Band A £13 Band A £13Groups 31+ Band B £15 Band B £12 Band B £12Plus 1 free organiser ticket N/A N/A Band C £11 Band C £11 Band C £11

Band A £15 Band A £13 Band A £13Groups 51+ Band B £14 Band B £12 Band B £12 Plus 1 free organiser ticket N/A N/A Band C £11 Band C £11 Band C £11

Band A £15.50 Band A £13 Band A £13Schools & Education Groups Band B £13.50 Band B £12 Band B £12 1 free teacher ticket per 15 pupils N/A N/A Band C £11 Band C £11 Band C £11

Young person standby (17-25)* £6 N/A £6 £6 £6

pLatinuM SeaSon tiCket5 Shows for £105along with a host of extras.

goLdSeaSon tiCket5 Shows for £80Plus great money saving benefits.

SavE With an octagon SEaSon tickEt! SEE PagES 4 anD 5 For MorE inForMation

All Season Ticket holders have the

option to add the Octagon festive

show, The BFG, for just £16 –

saving £7 off top price tickets.

31

Octagon Theatre, Howell Croft South, Bolton, BL1 1SB

The Octagon is situated in theheart of the town centre, oppositethe Library and Museum.

We are a five minute walk fromthe train and bus stations.

The nearest car park is theOctagon NCP multi-storey carpark adjacent to us: Great MoorStreet, Bolton BL1 1TNTel: 0845 050 7080

Octagon Theatre patrons get adiscounted rate from the OctagonNCP car park after 5pm – bringyour ticket to the theatre forvalidation.

SAT NAV: BL1 1TN (car park)

Please note: Some productionsmay contain smoking, stronglanguage, themes of an adultnature, stage smoke and/orstrobe lighting. Ask whenbooking for more information.

All information is accurate at thetime of going to print. TheOctagon Theatre reserves theright to make alterations ifnecessary.

To discuss access requirements please contact the Box Office on 01204 520661 or [email protected]

Wheelchair Users/ Customers with mobility impairment:

The Octagon has a flat foyer and entrance and anaccessible toilet on this level. Access to the bar and

auditorium is via the lift. There are stairs in the auditorium.Please mention any access requirements when booking andbook wheelchair spaces in advance. There is a disabledparking bay close to the theatre entrance.

Deaf and hard of hearing customers:

The Octagon has an infra-red hearing system. Via aheadset, sound is slightly amplified for customers with

or without hearing aids. Please pre-book headsets with BoxOffice staff. See show pages for British Sign Language (BSL)interpreted performances and mention when booking.

Captioned performances:See page 28 of this brochure for details.

Blind and visually impaired customers:

Audio-Described performances offer a livecommentary via a headset. See show pages for

dates and book your headset with the Box Office. Let usknow if you are bringing a guide dog - it can stay with youin the auditorium or be looked after by staff. A touch tour isavailable before the described performance. Moreinformation about our touch tours, including video footageand commentary from our Audio Describer, is available atwww.octagonbolton.co.uk and on CD, just ask our BoxOffice staff for a copy.

Wheelchair users and visually impaired customers areentitled to one free companion ticket.

This brochure is available in large print or onaudio CD upon request.

The Octagon’s flexibleauditorium means plays canbe staged in differentarrangements.

In-the-round

Thrust

End-stage

Stalls – No seat is more than 9rows from the stage

Gallery – A two row balconywhere you lean forwardslightly and look down to see.May be a restricted view foranyone under 9 years old.

Box Office: 01204 520661

Performance days: 9am – 7.30pm (until 7pm on the phone)

Non-performance days: 9am – 5.30pm We are closed Sundays

We accept cheques andmajor credit/debit cards.There is a 50p charge topost tickets.

Please note we do not offerrefunds. Tickets mayhowever be exchanged or acredit note given if ticketsare returned to us 24 hoursbefore the performance. A£1 exchange fee applies.

All patrons must have aticket. Please note we donot admit babes in arms.

24hr ticketbookings:www.octagonbolton.co.uk

Data protection: the OctagonTheatre Bolton collects data inaccordance with the DataProtection Act.

FinDing uS SEating PlanS accESS BookingOur access provisionis proudly sponsoredby ManchesterAirport Group

Box Offi

ce: 01204 520661w

ww

.octagonbolton.co.ukO

ctagon Theatre, H

owell Croft South,

Bolton, BL1 1SB

The Family W

ayFri 4 Septem

ber – Sat 3 October 2015

An Enem

y of the PeopleThu 8 – Sat 31 O

ctober 2015

The BFGFri 13 N

ovember 2015 – Sat 9 January 2016

Two

Thu 21 January – Sat 6 February 2016

Two 2

Wed 10 – Sat 27 February 2016

Martha, Josie and the Chinese Elvis

Thu 10 March – Sat 2 A

pril 2016

www.anonymousdesign.net

Sue HodgkiSS, CBe dL

PrinciPal PatronPrinciPal SPonSor

MaJor PartnEr

SuPPortErSIf you w

ould like to see your logo here then please contact us to find out how w

e could work together

to promote your business. Call 01204 556505 or em

ail [email protected]

The Octagon Theatre is a Registered Charity and gives thanks to all of its supporters.

Registered Charity number: 248833

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/OctagonBolton

@octagontheatre

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s-blog

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o tow

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octagon theatre bolton season brochure 2015-16

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