reading arts what's on spring 2014

Alan DaviesThe HexagonThursday 3 April &Saturday 11 October

READING CULTURE

AND SPORT

January - April 2014

THE HEXAGON READING MUSEUM

CONCERT HALL

SOUTH STREET

READING LIBRARIESSPORT & LEISURE

BERKSHIRE RECORD OFFICE

PARKS AND OPEN SPACES

Follow us on &

2 Box Office 0118 960 6060

…to the spring 2014 season here at Reading Culture and Sport.

It’s hard to believe yet another year has passed! But we can now all look forward to a

year of the very best shows and events coming to Reading.

Sumptuous productions abound at The Hexagon with the 60th Anniversary production of

Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, Moscow City’s Ballets Swan Lake & Romeo and Juliet,

Verdi’s grand old Opera Aida as well as ‘Strictly’ favourites Brendan Cole and Anton du

Beke, plus the return of The Buddy Holly Story.

South Street Arts Centre continues its acclaimed programme of Comedy, Theatre,

Children’s Shows and Live Music with the likes of Perth Theatre, Blind Summit, Lisa Knapp,

Richard Herring & Sean Hughes to name a few.

While Reading Museum exhibits a fascinating series of portraits from Tudor to Modern times,

as well as a nostalgic look back at a Reading institution, Jacksons Dept Store, as it closes

its doors for the last time.

Wishing you all a great start to 2014 and I hope to see you soon at one of our venues.

Paul Gittings

Lead Councillor for Reading Culture and Sport.

welcome

SOUTH STREETARTSCENTRE

Running until Sunday 16 March 2014

THE SIR JOHN MADEJSKI ART GALLERY

What makes a great portrait? Find out in thisimpressive display of over thirty oil paintings fromthe Museum’s art collection. Works range fromTudor and Stuart panel paintings, includingReading’s extraordinary portrait of Elizabeth I, to secret self-portraits from the 1990s.

FREE ENTRY

READING MUSEUM

READING MUSEUM

Jacksons Closing Down Display RUNNING UNTIL APRIL 2014

READING: PEOPLE AND PLACE GALLERY

It will be with sadness that Reading says goodbye to Jacksons when it closes its doors for the final timeat the end of 2013. Founded by Edward Jackson in 1875, the shop will be affectionately rememberedby generations of Reading people. This small community display takes a nostalgic look at the history of one of Reading’s best loved names.

FREE ENTRY

The Reformation in ReadingDetailed records from St Laurence’s church, 1498-1570, have now been transcribed and madeavailable for purchase in book form. They paint avivid picture of Reading during Tudor England, asthe town struggled to deal with religious change.Price £45.

Inside the Matrix: THE ART OF MEDIEVAL SEALSCOMING SOONThese fragile impressions may be centuries old, buteach one tells us something about the MiddleAges. Visit the Record Office to see, amongstothers, the earliest Borough seal for Reading andthe personal emblem of a Pope.

6 Box Office 0118 960 6060

BERKSHIRE RECORDS OFFICE

Berkshire Record Office, 9 Coley Avenue, ReadingRG1 6AF. www.berkshirerecordoffice.org.ukTel: 0118 937 5132

THE HEXAGONCONCERT HALL

International PerformanceSeason 2013/14

CLASSICAL MUSIC ALIVEIN READINGThe 2013-14 ConcertSeason Continues…

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic play Enigma Variations

Elias String Quartet, The Beethoven Project: 5

Katia & Marielle Labèque play the Carnival of the Animals

Imogen Cooper plays works by Schumann, Brahms & Schubert

John Lill celebrates his 70th birthday playing Rachmaninov

Britten Sinfonia brings their Mr Big family concert to The Hexagon

Fantastic Ticket Prices available*Groups 10+ £11.20Family of Four £44.80/£39.80Classical membership £11.20Under 18s & Schools £5.25

*Terms and conditions apply. Prices include booking fee.

All tickets are inclusive of bookingfee, see page 54 for details

FRIDAY 17 Jan, 8pm NICK HELM + guests

Nominated for the Foster's Edinburgh Comedy Award in 2011 and 2013

FRIDAY 21 Feb, 8pm JARRED CHRISTMAS + guests

Named best compare at the 2010 ChortleAwards, at the third time of being nominated.

FRIDAY 21 MARCH, 8pmKERRY GODLIMAN – Full Show

Co-stars with Ricky Gervais in ‘Derek’.

THE HEXAGON

CONCERT HALL

Jason Manford: FIRST WORLD PROBLEMS

Tuesday 14 January, 8pm

Extra date added due to demand

The show promises to feature awealth of comedy anecdotes,misunderstandings andaudience banter delivered withJason’s likeable charm andteasingly intelligent wit.

Ages 16+Tickets £24.50

Trevor Noah: THE RACIST

Friday 17 January, 8pm

Fresh from a record-breakingseason of shows at London’sSoho Theatre and a criticallyacclaimed total sell-outseason at the EdinburghFestival Fringe, South Africancomedian, Trevor Noah isproud to present his criticallyacclaimed show, TheRacist, on a ground-breaking tour of the UK.

“Noah is an immensely likeable performer - warm,upbeat, with an inquiring, irreverent approach toother people’s prejudices” The Observer

Recommended 16+Tickets £17

www.readingarts.com 7

THE HEXAGONTHE HEXAGON

Scoundrels Comedy Club continues

with a new season of the best

national and international

comedians on the circuit.

Laugh your socks off on the third

Friday of the month.

AT SOUTH STREET

Adults Only. Line-ups are subject to change.Tickets £14 available from www.readingarts.com includes booking fee and www.scoundrelscomedyclub.co.uk


AldworthPhilharmonicOrchestra Saturday 18 January 2014,

7.30pm

Andrew Taylor ConductorKathryn Hatton Viola

MICHAEL BETTERIDGE Beer, Biscuits & Bulbs (World Premiere)VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Flos CampiDVORAK Symphony No.9 ‘From the New World’

Michael Betteridge won ourYoung Composers Awardcompetition of 2013. Hiswinning portfolio proposed anintriguing idea of composing apiece which celebratesReading’s historical industries.Michael’s piece will containspoken memories from realReading residents involved inour Beer Biscuits and Bulbsheritage and promises to be areal treat for our localcommunity. The orchestra willalso display memoirs from theindustries and would bepleased to hear from anyReading residents who havethings they would like tocontribute to our display.

Tickets £14. £11.20 Concessions & YRP, £5.25 U16sConcert Virgins are FREE -please contact the APO boxoffice for [email protected]

CONCERT HALL THE HEXAGON SOUTH STREET

8 Box Office 0118 960 6060

Two Destination Language

Near GoneWednesday 22 January, 8pm

Two performers have a difficultstory to tell. They come onstage and launch themselvesinto an hour long attempt toput into words the utterlyunspeakable.

Delivered in English andBulgarian, with poundinggypsy-inspired music, thisbeautiful performance fills anempty space with twoperformers, hundreds of freshflowers and a storm ofemotion. A performance piecethat packs a punch -transforming your very sense ofwhat it is to be a mother, afather, a child. And you’ll leavemore fully alive than ever.

Recommend age 14+Tickets £11.20, £10.20Concessions


I’m Sorry IHaven’t A Clue THE OFFICIAL STAGE TOUR

Sunday 19 January, 1.30pm

& 7.30pm

Following sell-out tours in 20072008, 2009 and 2010, BBCRadio’s multi award-winningantidote to panel games startsan all-new touring stage showfor 2014.Join Barry Cryer, GraemeGarden, Tim Brooke-Taylor,Jeremy Hardy and host JackDee for an unmissable eveningof inspired nonsense. Colin Sellprovides pianoaccompaniment.

“Whether the teams are singingthe words of one song to thetune of another, making upserial rhymes or entering themythic maze of MorningtonCrescent, they have nowbecome the National Theatreof fun” Gillian Reynolds, DailyTelegraph

Tickets £27, Groups of 10+ £24each

BATTLE LIBRARY THE HEXAGON SOUTH STREET


General Brockand theMaiwand LionThursday 23 January 7pm

What links Niagara Falls, OxfordRoad, the Forbury Gardensand Afghanistan? Localhistorian Mike Cooper will tellthe story of two battles in theNineteenth Century which leftvisual reminders in Reading,one against the United Statesof America, and the other inthe same part of Afghanistanwhere local soldiers are fightingin 2014.

Tickets: £4, £3 to librarymembers. [email protected] collect from Reading Centralor Battle Library.

Royal LiverpoolPhilharmonicOrchestra CLASSICAL MUSIC ALIVE

Friday 24 January, 7.30pm

MOZART Overture: Don GiovanniELGAR Variations on an Original Theme: Enigma Op.36BRAHMS Symphony No.3 in F Major Op.90

Pre-concert talk 6.15pmpresented by Andrew LyleThe Hexagon Auditorium (FREE)

Tickets: £34 to £18Groups, Children, Family andSchools Concessions Available.

Lisa Knapp Friday 24 January, 8pm

Lisa Knapp tours her longawaited new album, HiddenSeam, which has enjoyed ravereviews and is crammed withbeautiful original compositions,featuring musical collaboratorGerry Diver alongsidecontributions from MartinCarthy, Alasdair Roberts, James Yorkston and KathrynWilliams.

“A masterful creation” ★★★★★The Observer

Tickets £11.20


AmericanSuperslamWrestling Saturday 25 January, 6pm

Superslam wrestling returnsafter a lengthy absence to TheHexagon for a great night ofaction, thrills and spills that willhave the whole family on theedge of their seats from thesound of the first bell. This 2hour family friendly wrestlingbonanza is a live version ofwhat kids all around the worldenjoy on televised events onthe TV screen.

Top American wrestlers will befacing up to a team of Britishwrestling stars in the squaredcircle for a night the kids will betalking about for weeks afterthe event.

Tickets: Adults £15, U16s £10.70,Family of Four (Max 2 Adults)£43.80

Punt and Dennis Tuesday 28 January, 8pm

Life on the road is all rock-n-rollglamour. STEVE PUNT andHUGH DENNIS live the dream asthey cruise the contraflowlanes, follow the one-waysystems, unwrap the pastiesand sip the service-stationcoffees of Britain in their questto find somewhere to parkvaguely near a theatre in yourtown.

“The kings of satirical comedy”The Guardian

Tickets £24.50

What aWonderful (andBonkers) World! Tuesday 28 January, 7.30pm

Why is the sky blue on Earthand yellow on Mars? Can youuntwinkle a star? Can you getyour head round space andtime? Master of the Universe(well, cosmology consultant forthe New Scientist) MarcusChown can help you try, usingTweet-sized bites, everydayobjects and a lot of fun.

Tickets £4/£3 to librarymembers. [email protected] collect from Reading CentralLibrary.

THE HEXAGON THE HEXAGON CENTRAL LIBRARY

10 Box Office 0118 960 6060 All tickets are inclusive of bookingfee, see page 54 for details

THE HEXAGON THE HEXAGON SOUTH STREET


40 years on, and the music ofJeff Lynne and the ElectricLight Orchestra is still regularlyplayed on radio stationsthroughout the world. This showis currently touring UK theatresbringing these great songsback to the live stage.Currently wowing audiencesup and down the country, thisshow is not to be missed

Tickets £22, Groups 10+: £2 off

The ELOExperience: A TRIBUTE TO JEFF LYNNE & THEELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA

Wednesday 29 January, 8pm

MR BLUE SKY TOURfeaturing thefabulous ELOEXPERIENCE TheOfficial UK No 1Tribute Show2013.

40 years on, and the music ofJeff Lynne and the ElectricLight Orchestra is still regularlyplayed on radio stationsthroughout the world. This showis currently touring UK theatresbringing these great songsback to the live stage.Currently wowing audiencesup and down the country, thisshow is not to be missed

Tickets £22, Groups 10+: £2 off

Roy ChubbyBrown Thursday 30 January, 8pm

Roy Chubby Brown returns withhis bluest show yet!He’s still rude, he’s still crudeand this time he’s turningheadlines into punch lines ashis rip-roaring brand of bantercontinues to burst bellies acrossthe country. Chubby doesn’thold back from sharing hisoutlandish views on news,women and gender, sailing soclose to the mark, even themost seasoned of fans will beleft gob-smacked!

As politically incorrect as ever‘The World’s Most OutrageousComedian’ is far too rude forTV, so this live performance isthe only place to catchthe flamboyant comedian!If easily offended please stayaway!

ADULTS ONLY

Tickets £22

Tom Adams: STILL SCORE

Thursday 30 January, 8pm

“I remember being 5 years oldand drinking a carton of FiveAlive tropical juice drink andsaying to myself "I am 5 and Iam alive". Now I am 33 and onthe harder stuff...Um Bongo”

In February 2013, Tom bought aslide projector and a box ofslides of people he did notknow. Using comedy,storytelling and musicalinstruments, Tom creates a livesoundtrack inspired by theseimages and memories of hisown life. Directed bycomedian and theatre maker,Laura Mugridge (‘She is simplybrilliant’ Metro). Supported byArts Council England,Harrogate Theatre, South StreetArts Centre and MiracleTheatre

“It’s impossible not to be charmed by him” Chortle

Tickets £10, £8.20 concessions



SOUTH STREET THE HEXAGON SOUTH STREET

Alex Horne: LIES

Friday 31 January, 8pm

The 30 year old multi-Baftaaward-winning stand up andplatinum-selling R&B artist AlexHorne is back with an hour ofobservations, impressions andlies.

Best known for mindblowingPowerpoint or live music, thisshow has neither; just Alex, apanda, some jokes and somelies. Although one of those mayalso be a lie. Or a joke. Eitherway, it’ll be funny. Honest.

“A beguiling blend of the smartand the stupid…a real delight”The Sunday Times

Tickets £14

Postman Pat: IT’S SHOWTIME

Saturday 1 February, 1pm

Premier Stage Productions &Classic Media are delighted topresent a brand new, fun-filled,all action show featuringeveryone’s favourite postman.See Pat and his friends live onstage in an exciting new story –“It’s Showtime!”

It’s the day of the GreatGreendale Talent Show andthere’s much excitement as thisyear a top talent scout will beon the lookout for a rising star.Postman Pat has a newkaraoke machine to deliver forthe show – but when themachine breaks down it lookslike the talent show might be injeopardy. Can Pat save theday?

With songs, laughs and audience participation, Postman Pat Live is the must see show for 3-6 year olds this year!

Tickets: Adults £14.50, Child £12.50, Family of Four (Max 2 adults) £50.

Nearly Dan: Reelin' in the Years Anniversary tour

Saturday 1 February, doors 8pm

Less tribute and more homage,Nearly Dan is saviour to thegrowing legions of Dan fans,desperate to hear themeticulously crafted groovesand allusive lyrical style ofDonald Fagen & Walter Becker.Nearly Dan's approach isfaithful, though not reverential,and relaxed but as tight astheir namesakes. They bringtheir own unique spirit andspontaneous humour to everyconcert.

Tickets £18 in advance, £20 on the door

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THE HEXAGON

Moscow City Ballet present

Swan Lake and Romeo & JulietSwan Lake: Sunday 2 Feb, 7.30pmRomeo & Juliet: Monday 3 Feb, 7.30pm

ROMEO & JULIET

Music: Sergei Prokofiev Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet is the perfect marriage of a powerful dramatic musical score with apassionate love story - every dancer’s dream. The choreography, interpretation and outstandinglyathletic virtuoso performances beautifully complement the world’s most famous tragic love story andiconic musical score.

SWAN LAKE

Music: Pyotr Tchaikovsky Swan Lake is a signature piece of Moscow City Ballet’s entire repertoire. The orchestra, choreography,interpretation, beauty and outstanding virtuoso performances win consistently rave reviews and sell outattendance. Moscow City Ballet’s interpretation of the world’s most romantic ballet is magnificentlybrought to life by Tchaikovsky’s most well-loved haunting score.

With Full Orchestra.

Tickets £34.50, £32, £29.50. Groups and Concessions £3 off.£5 off per ticket if you book for both ballets at the same time!

www.readingarts.com 13All tickets are inclusive of bookingfee, see page 54 for details

SOUTH STREET SOUTH STREET

SOUTH STREET

14 Box Office 0118 960 6060

Beatroots Bateria & Readipop present

Samba 101Tuesday 4 February, doors 8pm

Beatroots Bateria & Readipop invite beginnersand rusty musicians to join them for a night ofdrumming inspired by samba rhythms. Thisenergetic session is led by Gavin Lombos, whohas led the group for over 15 years and hasperformed at events such as London’sMillennium celebrations & Live Earth atWembley. All drums are provided by Readipop.

Tickets £8.20 in advance, £9.20 on the door

Toot present

Ten Out Of TenWednesday 5 February, 8pm

A comic peek into our absurd world of triumphsand disasters. Three experts put our successesand failures under the microscope using electricguitars, the raising of hands and chalking on walls. It’s all here: brownie badges and driving tests; failing Grade One Flute and that first date; climbing Mount Kilimanjaro...

“It’s all terrific light...hearted fun...thoroughlyengaging. Toot are one to watch”Lyn Gardner, The Guardian

Tickets £11.20

John Robins: WHERE IS MY MIND?

Wednesday 5 February, 8pm

Three Weeks Editor’s Choice award winner.John Robins brings his EdinburghFestival hit show on tour in 2014.Alter egos, ailments, love,nostalgia, indie-nights and belly-laughs. An hour full of raucousstand-up for anyone who’s triedto live in the moment, only torealise that moment happened over a decade ago.


“Sparkling stand-up” The Times

Tickets £11.20

VINTAGE CLOTHES – VINTAGE ART – VINTAGE FOOD – VINTAGE ACCESSORIES – VINTAGE FUNThe Real Vintage Market is back at The Hexagon, bigger and better than ever,

with all manner of Vintage-ness to indulge the inner retro in you!

FEELING PECKISH?With stalls celebrating the abundance of great quality food and drink available locally – from cheeses, breads and indulgent

sweet treats to beers, wines and ciders…and everything in-between.This is a truly scrumptious opportunity to sample and purchase some old favourites and also discover new and delicious foods.

FREE ADMISSIONIf you would like to enquire about hiring a stall at either Real Vintage or the Good Food Market,

please contact Steff Cohen on 0118 937 2065 or email [email protected]

and the goodFOOD MARKET

CONCERT HALL

THE HEXAGON


The Elias String Quartet:THE BEETHOVEN PROJECT 5CLASSICAL MUSIC ALIVE

Thursday 6 February, 7.30pm

String Quartet in C minor Op.18 No.4String Quartet in E flat Major Op.74 ‘The Harp’String Quartet in B flat Major Op.130String Quartet in B flat Major Op.133 ‘Grosse Fuge’

Pre-concert talk 6.15pm presented by Philip Hesketh, The Town Hall (FREE)

Tickets £25 to £14Groups, Children, Schools and Family Concessions Available.


Saturday 8th February10am - 4pm

SOUTH STREET THE HEXAGON

SOUTH STREET

16 Box Office 0118 960 6060

John Hegley in I am a POETato Saturday 8 February, 2pm

John Hegley presents a family show, basedaround his latest collection of poems for all ages,an A-Z of poems about people, pets and othercreatures. From a mosquito and ants, through(wise) camels, dogs,deckchairs, goldfishand guillemots toToby the armadillofrom Peru, and notforgetting theunusual unicorn fromschool.

“Fabulously funny”Time Out

Tickets £11.20 adults,£8.20 U16’s and fulltime students

Back to BroadwaySunday 9 February, 7.30pm

The all-singing, all-dancing, theatrical sensationthat invites you to take a breathtaking journeythrough the magical world of musicals! Now in its3rd successful year, Back To Broadway returnswith a stunning new show for 2014. All the best-loved songs from the world’s greatest musicalsare showcased in a spellbinding and captivatingstage spectacular! Be enthralled by theunforgettable ‘One Day More’ from LesMisérables, the glitz and glamour ofCopacabana, the uplifting ‘Time Of My Life’ fromDirty Dancing and the fantastic ‘Defying Gravity’from Wicked: just some of the timelessshowstoppers performed live on stage by someof the country’s finest performers currently touringthe UK. So join us for an evening of non-stopentertainment that will leave you clamouring formore. With unforgettable performances, dazzlingcostumes and original choreography, all backedby a stunning New York setting, Back ToBroadway is the hit show not to be missed!

Tickets £20.50, £19 Concessions and Groups of 10+

John HegleySaturday 8 February, 8pm

Celebrated comic poet John Hegley returns toSouth Street as part of a brand new tour insupport of his new book ‘JOHN HEGLEY’S NEW &SELECTED POTATOES’ - a greatest hits, best ofgolden oldies compilation (with some new stuff)from ‘Comedy’s poet laureate’ (Independent).

Poet, comic, singer, songwriter and glasses-wearer, John Hegleyhas captivated anddevastatedaudiences all overthe country, intheatres andfestivals, at gigs atthe EdinburghFestival, and withnumerousappearances onradio and television.

Tickets £14, £11.20 concessions


READING LIBRARIES SOUTH STREET

SOUTH STREET CENTRAL LIBRARY


National Libraries DaySaturday 8 February, All Day

To celebrate National Libraries Day, local authors will be giving talks and holding book signings across the borough. Highlights include another chance to listen to local historians Mike Cooper and Stuart Hylton. See posters in your local library to find out what’s happening across the borough.

Free events, tickets may be required. Please email [email protected] orcontact your local library for more details.

Readipop present

Ukulele 101Tuesday 11 February, doors 7pm

Sign up for this taster and you’ll learn a couple ofchords and some quirky ukulele versions ofpopular songs. Suitable for complete beginners,rusty musicians and those seeking a newchallenge. Don’t worry if you’ve never evenpicked one up, ukulele band The Small Strings willbe on hand to help!

Readipop are able to provide a limited number ofukuleles please email [email protected] ifone is required. Following on from Uke 101Readipop will be offering a 10-week beginnerscourse which will take place at Readipop Studiosin Reading.


South Street Youth Theatre present

MonsterTuesday 11 February & Wednesday 12 February, 7pm

South Street Youth Theatre present a brand newdevised piece of theatre inspired by MaryWollstonecraft-Shelley’s Frankenstein and theprocess by which she wrote this iconic piece atthe age of 18.

Tickets £8.20, £5.25 Concessions

A Colourful Treasure fromthe Age of the Pyramids:THE TOMB OF NEFER AND KAHAY BY PAOLO SCREMIN

Thursday 13 February, 7.30pm

This talk will take you on a guided tour of thedecorated chapel in the rock-cut tomb of Nefer and Kahay. The scenes and interesting details will be explained, and the audience will beintroduced to various members of Nefer’s extended family, whose images and names have survived on the walls of the chapel for almost 4,400 years. Paolo Scremin is the deputydirector of the Oxford Expedition to Egypt.

Tickets £4/£3 to library members. [email protected] or collect fromReading Central Library.


THE HEXAGON

The MousetrapTHE 60TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

Monday 10 to Saturday 15 FebruaryMon, 7.30pm. Tues, 7.30pm. Wed, 2.30pm & 7.30pm.Thurs, 7.30pm. Fri, 7.30pm. Sat, 2.30pm & 7.30pm.

“A truly entertaining classic thriller”

Sunday Times


THE HEXAGON

A classic. A landmark. A legend. The Mousetrap is famous around theworld for being the longest running show of any kind in the history ofBritish theatre - over 25,000 performances it’s a play to be proud of.And to celebrate 60 incredible years on stage, it’s going on tour forthe first time, with a star cast to give you a once in a life-timeopportunity to see this masterpiece here at The Hexagon.

The scene is set when a group of people gathered in a country housecut off by the snow discover, to their horror, that there is a murderer intheir midst. Who can it be? One by one the suspicious charactersreveal their sordid pasts until at the last, nerve-shredding moment theidentity and the motive are finally revealed.

In her own inimitable style, Dame Agatha Christie has createdan atmosphere of shuddering suspense and a brilliantly intricateplot where murder lurks around every corner.

Tickets £31.50, £29.50, £27.50Wednesday Matinee: all £24 (no concessions)Concessions £2.50 off (excludes matinees).Groups 10+: £3 off, School groups 10+: £14 plus 1 in 10 free(Groups/schools prices available on Monday/Tuesday evening and Wed matinee only)

“The cleverest murder mystery of

British Theatre”Daily Telegraph


SOUTH STREET SOUTH STREET BATTLE LIBRARY

20 Box Office 0118 960 6060

Sean Hughes: PENGUINS

Friday 14 February, 8pm

Sean’s brilliant and multi-layered new show sees him askthe question, is a man the sumof his parts? In a brand newreflective and uplifting piece,he tackles all nature of humanfailings and foibles and will takethe audience on a whirlwindhour of surreal inventiveplayfulness. Sean delves into hispast, from career guidanceteachers and an angry monkto older brothers and losing hisvirginity.

“Master Of satire andinvention” The EveningStandard

Tickets £17

Limehouse Lizzy: Saturday 15 February, doors 8pm

Limehouse Lizzy return to SouthStreet after sell out shows forthe past five years. Renownedfor an action-packedPyrotechnic -fuelled explosionof a show, Limehouse Lizzycontinue to keep the spirit ofCeltic rock icon Philip Lynottand his band Thin Lizzy alive,well and dominating stagesworldwide. The band have alsoadded a tribute in their set tothe late Gary Moore (ex-ThinLizzy guitarist and worldrenowned solo artist) who sadlypassed away last year.

This is a standing onlyperformance. Tickets £17 advance, £19 onthe door

CrosswordCourse: BEGINNERS & INTERMEDIATE

Saturday 15 February

Beginners Workshop, 9.45am - 12.45pm

Intermediate Workshop,1.45pm - 4.45pm

Kaz, a neuroscience graduatefrom crosswordtutors.co.uk, willbe back with his action-packed sessions. Bring acrossword from your favouritenewspaper or magazine andgive your brain some exercise!

Maximum 15 people at eachsession.

Tickets £10/£8 to librarymembers. [email protected] collect from Reading CentralLibrary or Battle Library.


CONCERT HALL

THE HEXAGON


The Cory Band Sunday 16 February, 3pm

From the Rhondda Valley in South Wales, The Cory Band were European Brass BandChampions in 2008 and 2009 and also won the2009 British Open Championship at Birmingham’sSymphony Hall. They have a rich history datingback to 1884 and continue to be a highlysuccessful band performing at many of theworlds finest venues. Tickets £14 to £23

Old MacDonald Had A FarmSunday 16 February, 2.30pm

Old MacDonald’s animalshave gone missing!Can you help a friendlyscientist and his time machine get them back forhim? From the team behindThere Was An Old Lady WhoSwallowed A Fly and written for parents toenjoy with their children, this fun filled tale bringsto life all the best loved characters from theoriginal nursery rhyme along with a magical medley of games, gigglesand sing along songs. Told with a captivatingcombination of live action, puppetry andanimation.

Suitable for ages 4+

Tickets Adults £10.70, Children U16 £9.70, Family of four £36.80, Schools Groups £7.20 per person with 1 in 10 free


SOUTH STREET

Tony & Mike (OR THE COUNTRY OWL & THE CITY SQUIRREL)

Monday 17 February, 11.30am* & 2pm

Tony the Owl lives in the countryside. He's reallyhappy in his little garden until Joe and Charlotteturn up and ruin his peace and quiet. They'vemoved from the city for a quieter life and, to behonest, they've got no idea what they're doing. Tomake matters worse, they've bought Mike theSquirrel with them. He's loud, he's cheeky and helikes to party.

Featuring puppetry, original music, and real earth,this is a story about making friends, being differentand why that's OK.

*Special relaxed performance for children withspecial needs and their families.

Tickets £8.70

THE HEXAGON

22 Box Office 0118 960 6060

Opera & Ballet International presents an Ellen Kent Production

Verdi’s AidaTHE GRANDEST OF ALL OPERAS

Tuesday 18 February at 7.30pm

Directed by Ellen Kent featuring the Celebrated ChisinauNational Opera and National Philharmonic withInternational Guest soloists

Aida, the grandest of all Ellen Kent’s operas returns to theUK with a stunning, traditional brand new production ofthis magnificent story of war, jealousy and revenge, atwhose heart is the doomed love of the beautifulEthiopian slave girl, Aida, and the Egyptian hero,Radames.

Traditionally staged, this lavish production with amazing special effects includes spectacular ballet sequences, stunning sets inspired by the Valley of the Kings and costumes taken from designsfound in tomb paintings.

Featuring the classic Triumphal March with an incrediblepyrotechnic display using the most spectacular effectsincluding a magnificent wall of fire inspired by Vulcan,the Lord of Fire, plus amazing fire spinners - NOT TO BE MISSED!

Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

Tickets £34.50, £31.50, £29.50Concessions £2 off. Groups 10+ £3 off.


SOUTH STREET THE HEXAGON

SOUTH STREET


Old Saw present

TomtenTuesday 18 February, 11.30am & 2pm

When everyone is asleep the Tomten wakesup. He looks after everyone on the farm.Sometimes, you can see his footprints inthe snow. That’s how you know he is real.

Tomten follows an immortal tomte(Swedish elf or gnome) as he watchesover a small farmstead on mid-winters night. Viktor Rydberg’s well-loved poem is brought to life in anew puppetry show for children 3+.

“...hauntingly captivating... intricate and charming...” A Younger Theatre

Tickets £8.70

Principals of The Orchestra of the Age ofEnlightenmentCLASSICAL MUSIC ALIVE

Wednesday 19 February, 7.30pm

Katia & Marielle Labèque, Pianos

DEBUSSY Prélude à l’après midi d’un faune (arr. Schoeberg)RAVEL Ma Mère l’Oye (for piano duet)IBERT DivertissementRAVEL Introduction and AllegroSAINT-SAENS Carnival of the Animals

Pre-concert talk 6.15pm presented by Dr Helen Julia MinorsThe Hexagon Auditorium (FREE)

Tickets: £34 to £18Groups, Children, Family and Schools Concessions Available.

Richard Herring:WE’RE ALL GOING TO DIE!

Wednesday 19 February, 8pm

After sorting out politics (Hitler Moustache),religion (Christ on a Bike), love (What is Love,Anyway?) and penises (Talking Cock) Herringreturns to tackle the undiscovered country fromwhose bourn no traveller returns (apart fromJesus and that canoe bloke). Is death a tragedyor an excuse to have an extended lie-in? Are wesnuffed out or forced to endure eternity withoutbodily pleasures? Death is inevitable, so let’slaugh in its face while our hearts still beat andour jaws are still attached.

Tickets £17


THE HEXAGON THE HEXAGON


The Johnny CashRoadshow Thursday 20 February, 7.30pm

Welcome the Johnny Cash Roadshow, a shownot to be missed by avid fans or the casuallistener. Also the only show to be endorsed by theCASH family! This year prepare for a musicaladventure unrivalled by any other that trulycelebrates the career of a music legend, JohnnyCash.

The UK’s No1 Tribute, fronted by respectedsinger/songwriter Clive John, with The Spirit Band,re-create with astounding accuracy and trulycapture the essence of what it was like to be at areal Cash show! Also featuring the best JuneCarter in the business, all aspects of Cash’s life arecovered with impeccable taste.

“Clive’s resemblance is uncanny” - Rosanne Cash - eldest daughter of Johnny Cash

“Clive captures my Grandfather JUST as he was”

“Absolutely authentic to the point where it felt as if it wasn’t a tribute”Caitlin Crowell – Granddaughter of Johnny Cash.

Tickets £21, £20 Concessions

The Sensational 60’sExperience: THE MARMALADE - THE SWINGING BLUE JEANS CHRIS FARLOWE - STEVE ELLIS’ LOVE AFFAIR

Friday 21 February. 7.30pm

Hosted by Alan Mosca from Freddie & The DreamersA brand new production for 2014 making thiswithout doubt the most dynamic 60’s show touringthe UK. This is the must see 60’s extravaganza for2014. For one night only all the original hitsperformed by four of the most popular artistes ofthe 60s.

This explosive 60s line up delivers to you nostalgia &hits such as: The Marmalade: Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da,Falling Apart At The Seams, Reflections Of My Life.The Swinging Blue Jeans: Hippy Hippy Shake, You’reNo Good, Good Golly Miss Molly. Chris Farlowe: OutOf Time, Handbags and Gladrags, Reach Out I’ll BeThere. Steve Ellis’ Love Affair: Everlasting Love,Bringing On Back The Good Times.

Don’t miss the ultimate sensational 60’s show of 2014with over 25 hits performed by four of the mostinfluential chart toppers of their time. Step back intime and relive the past during an evening true tothe 60’s when pop music was at its very best.

Tickets £25.50, Concessions £2 off, Groups 10+: £3 off

24 Box Office 0118 960 6060


SOUTH STREET THE HEXAGON THE HEXAGON

Jamie Smith’sMabon & MazO’ConnorSaturday 22 February, 8pm

Jamie Smith’s MABON and MazO’Connor are two of the mosthighly accomplished andcritically acclaimed folk artistsin Britain today. This doubleheadline show captures boththe depth and breadth of thetwo intertwined musicalcultures - Celtic and English.

Support: Chloe Bix, a Devonbased singer/songwriter.

Tickets £14.50

Shane Filan:YOU AND ME TOUR

Saturday 22 February, 8pm

The ex-Westlife lead singer nowheads out on tour after therelease of his debut soloalbum.

Shane co-wrote a handful ofWestlife songs, but his soloalbum sees him emerge as apop writer to be reckoned with.

Please note that tickets arelimited to 6 per booking.Tickets £33.50

Tap Factory Tuesday 25 February, 7.30pm

Theatre Productions are proudto be bringing this world classshow to the UK in 2014. Adazzling, amazing production,showing many genres ofdance, in an urban setting. TapFactory is where ‘Stomp meetsTap Dogs!’ Their feet have a lifeof their own, and the rhythmnever stops. A brand newaward- winning concept in thegenre of STOMP, TAP DOGSand BLUE MAN GROUP.This tremendously visual, andhighly exciting show, featuresthe world’s best tap dancersand international musicians asthey blend the art ofpercussion, with dance andacrobatics. This amazing fullychoreographed spectacularfeatures mind blowing livepercussion, and gorgeous maledancers to set your pulsesracing.

Tickets £22.50, £20.50, U16's,Groups and Concessions £18



26 Box Office 0118 960 6060

Jason Manford: FIRST WORLD PROBLEMS

Monday 1 - Tuesday 30 April

Louis Pearl, The AmazingBubble Man has been thrillingaudiences around the world fornearly 30 years with the art,magic, science and fun ofbubbles. He has performed tomore than one million people,including royalty andcelebrities. As well as exploring thebreathtaking dynamics ofbubbles, the show combinescomedy, and artistry withplenty of audienceparticipation and enoughspellbinding bubble tricks tokeep every child and adultmesmerized. From squarebubbles, bubbles insidebubbles, fog-filled bubbles,giant bubbles, bubblevolcanoes, tornados andtrampolines to people insidebubbles, The Amazing BubbleMan conjures shrieks oflaughter and gasps ofamazement from all ages.

Suitable for age 3+Tickets £7.50

Jamie Allan: I-MAGICIAN

Wednesday 26 February,7.30pm

Jamie Allan is one of thegreatest innovators of modernmagic and has devised illusionsthat have stunned audiencesacross the globe.His special illusions includemaking the new Mercedes Mclass and A class appear out ofthin air at the UK launch,designing the patent pendinglaser technology for theamazing new show “Lumina –the laser violinist” and hisamazing iPad illusion ‘DigitalArt’ which he performed livedon the BBC One Show tomillions of viewers. Now, after 10 years performingaround the world Jamie isreturning home to the UK with“iMagican”Directed by Anthony Owen,BAFTA & Rose D’or awardwinner and producer of DerrenBrown, iMagician defies theboundaries of logic and blendsincredible illusion with hightechnology including iPadillusion, Virtual Assistant andspectacular LaserManipulation. All enhancedthrough beautiful projectionand world class sleight of hand.

Tickets £22, Concessions andgroups: £2.50 off

Readipop & Steve Southall present

African Drumming 101Wednesday 26 February, doors 7pm

Readipop and Steve Southall(Africa Junction) introduce youto African drumming in this fun,Afro-Latin inspired tasterworkshop. It’s the perfectchance to start hand drummingif you’ve not tried before, or topractise your skills if you have!Djembe’s provided & beginnerswelcome.


Reading Between the LinesFoundations present

JerusalemTuesday 25 & Wednesday 26February, 7.30pm

On St Georges Day, the morningof the local county fair, Johnny'Rooster' Byron, local waster andmodern day Pied Piper is awanted man... Jez Butterworth'sJerusalem premiered at theRoyal Court in 2009. The originalcast included Mark Rylance asJohnny and the play gleanedmore 5 star reviews than anyWest End play in history.

Tickets £11.20, £10 concessions


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SOUTH STREET SOUTH STREET CONCERT HALL


TomWrigglesworth: UTTERLY AT ODDS WITH THE UNIVERSE

Thursday 27 February, 8pm

Direct from a sell-out run at theEdinburgh festival. Sony AwardWinner, Edinburgh ComedyAward Nominee, Chortle &Time Out Award winner andStar of Radio 4 and BBC 2, TomWrigglesworth returns with anexquisite new show.

In turns, poignant and hilarious,Tom takes an emotionaljourney exploring his profoundrelationship with his granddad,and comes to fully understandthe influence he has had on hislife.

“Magical storytelling...A rare talent…hysterical &accomplished” Time Out

Tickets £14, £11.20 Concessions

Caddy Cooper& Friends Friday 28 February, doors 7.30pm

Hailing from Western Australia,Caddy Cooper is anexhilarating acoustic, blues,folk, country singer who enticesher audience with tales of life,love, loss and the fragility of thehuman condition. Caddy will be joined by friendsand guests on what promisesto be a great night!

Tickets £8.20 advance, £9.20on the door

Lee Hurst: THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GOAAARGGH!!!

Friday 28 February, 8pm

Lee Hurst is asking audienceswhat winds them up? Whatgets on their nerves? Whatrattles their cage so that theythrow their toys out of thepram? Is it things yourneighbours do, your spouse,politicians? Or is it simple thingslike people closing their eyeswhen they talk to you? Lee islike all Brits, he loves a rightgood moan, but he also likes tocome up with alternatives too,if only to stop himself goingbonkers with rage. One of the UK’s funniest stand-up comedians; see him whileyou can.

“Unfailingly funny” TIME OUT

Suitable for ages 16+Tickets £18, £16 Concessions


Sing-a-Long-a-DirtyDancingSunday 2 March, 7.30pm

Get ready for the time of your life! Theproducers of Sing-a-Long-a Sound of Music andSing-a-Long-a GREASE bring you a specialscreening of this iconic film.

It’s the summer of 1963, it’s college boys versusdancing hunks, it’s one of the best loved moviesof all time and yes, there is a guy as great asyour dad. Join Baby and Johnny in a fun-filledscreening of the1987 dance classic film whereYOU are the stars of the show. Our host, will leada vocal warm up, show you how to use our‘magic moments fun pack’ and have youdancing really dirty…..

And remember, “Nobody puts Baby in thecorner”. This is your chance to show Patrick andJennifer how it’s done. Fancy dress is highlyrecommended.

www.singalonga.net

Film is Cert 15, contains adult material. Tickets £17, Groups 1 in 10 Free


28 Box Office 0118 960 6060

Fascinating AïdaCHARM OFFENSIVE

Friday 28 February, 7.30pm

Following a sold-out 2012 tour, three OlivierAward nominations and over 10 million YouTubehits for Cheap Flights (their infamous anthem tobudget air travel), Dillie Keane, Adèle Andersonand Liza Pulman celebrate 30 years ofFascinating Aïda with a brand new show.Expect topical new songs hot off the press, plussome outrageous old favourites, as FascinatingAïda continue to grow old disgracefully!

“Cabaret Heaven” Metro ★★★★★

“Outrageous... seductive” The Guardian ★★★★

“I can’t recommend this show highly enough” Mail on Sunday

Tickets £22


THE HEXAGON


The Gruffalo Monday 3 & Tuesday 4 MarchMon, 1.30pm & 4pm. Tues 10.30am & 1.30pm.

Don’t miss Tall Stories’ hit musical stage adaptation of the award winning picture book,

The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

Voted the nation’s number one bedtime story by BBC Radio 2 listeners, The Gruffalo hasbeen performed to well over a million people worldwide and has even hit the small=screens in a star-studded TV animation.

Meet a wheeler-dealer Fox, an eccentric old Owl and a maraca-shaking, party mad Snake!Mouse can scare these hungry animals away with tall stories of the terrifying Gruffalo, butwhat happens when he comes face to face with the very creature he imagined...?

The Gruffalo is the ideal introduction to theatre for pre and primary school children and their families; with plenty of songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups.


“A fine piece of children’s theatre” Sunday Times

“Monstrous fun for your little horrors” Daily Mail

Tickets £14, Schools and Group of 10+ £9.70 with 1 in 10 free

THE HEXAGON

Brendan Cole LICENCE TO THRILLWednesday 5 March, 7.30pm

Following on from his debut TheatreTour Live and Unjudged, Brendan isonce again set to dazzle audiencesacross the UK with current show,Licence To Thrill. Join him and his castof 20 musicians and dancers as theytake you on a journey of music anddance in this spectacular night oftheatre entertainment. Brendan, oneof Strictly Come Dancing’s mostcharismatic choreographers andperformers, will host you throughoutand along with his company will treatyou to an evening of Ballroom magicand Latin excitement in this, his livedance extravaganza not to bemissed. With music from across theages, there will be something foreveryone in this sophisticatedproduction set to wow audiences in 2014

Tickets £38, £36.Groups 10+: £3 off


All tickets are inclusive of bookingfee, see page 54 for details www.readingarts.com 31


Susan Calman Tuesday 4 & Wednesday 5March, 8pm

Comedian Susan Calman willbe undertaking the first stageof her 2014 tour of the UK byperforming a new 60 minutesuntitled show which shedescribes as a ‘work-in’progress’.

Edinburgh Fringe favouriteSusan has her own Radio 4series ‘Calman is Convicted’and is a panel regular on theNews Quiz and the Now Show.She has also made winningguest appearances on TVshows Have I Got News For Youand Q.I.

“Confident, compact…cracking” Evening Standard

Tickets £11.20

Circus of Horrors Thursday 6 March, 8pm

The Circus of Horrors presentswhat is undoubtedly itsgreatest show to date, Londonafter Midnight.The show that stormed into thefinals of Britain’s Got Talent isback with an awe-inspiringrock n roller coaster of showthat flies like a bat out of hell tocelebrate an astounding 18years of shock n’ roll.

The new sensation isinspired by thelegendary & sinisterlost movie ‘Londonafter Midnight’ and ispacked with newshocks will take youon a whirlwindjourney thougha plagueriddenLondon in 1665& culminatingduring the greatfire of London in1666.

“Freaking Awesome” The Sun

Adults OnlyTickets £27, £20, £14. Concessions and Groups 10+£3 off the top two ticket prices

Paul Sinha is aStand UpComedianFriday 7 March, 8pm

Paul Sinha is a stand-upcomedian, but you might knowhim as 'The Sinnerman', fromITV's The Chase or you mightknow him from your localdoctor's surgery or fromMastermind or UniversityChallenge.

He is many things; quiz geek,doctor, Gemini, sports fanatic,and, according to JimDavidson, 'an Indian poof', butfirst and foremost, he is a stand-up comedian. A bloody great stand-upcomedian.

"What good stand-up shouldbe. Hilariously funny,passionate and articulate"Chortle

Recommended 18+

Tickets £14, £11.20 Concessions

THE HEXAGON

32 Box Office 0118 960 6060

Anton Du Beke: BALLROOM TO BROADWAY

Saturday 8 March, 7.30pm

With special guest Summer Strallen

The nation’s favourite Ballroom dancer Anton du Beke is back once again with a thrilling new show to wow audiences across the UK.Featuring memorable dances alongside sensational new choreography, timeless tunes and strictly dazzling costumes to conjure up the elegance of Ballroom at its best and the unmissable razzle dazzle of Broadway.

With music fromCOLE PORTER, GEORGE GERSHWIN, JERRY HERMAN & ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER.

Featuring classic hitsYOU’RE THE TOPANYTHING GOESIMPOSSIBLE DREAMRHYTHM OF LIFEHUSHABYE MOUNTAINBEGIN THE BEGUINE

Lance Ellington lead vocalist.Richard Balcombe conductor.

With world class ensemble dancers featuring Faye Huddleston and the Raymond Gubbay Big Band Orchestra.

Tickets £44.50, £36.50All tickets are inclusive of booking fee, see page 54 for details


CONCERT HALL SOUTH STREET


Imogen Cooper, PIANO

CLASSICAL MUSIC ALIVE


Programme includes:SCHUMANNRomanze in F# Op.28 No.2BRAHMSVariation from String SextetOp.18(arr. For Clara)SCHUBERTSonata in B flat D960

Pre-concert talk 6.15pmpresented by Chris de Souza,The Town Hall (FREE)

Tickets £25 to £14Groups, Children, Schools andFamily Concessions Available.

Strengthcollective, Tag Collective & South Street present

Reading LIVEin celebration of International Women’s Day 2014 with

Bryony Kimmings:Credible Likeable Superstar Role Model


Join us for an evening of vibrant live art from some the UK’s bestfemale performance makers, culminating in the latest acclaimedshow from the award winning Bryony Kimmings.

In an audacious protest against the world’s attempts to sexualiseand commodify childhood, Kimmings and her 9-year-old nieceTaylor decided to take on the global tween machine. Theyinvented Catherine Bennett, a dinosaur-loving, bike-riding, tuna-pasta-eating pop star, and vowed to make her world famous!Bryony became Catherine Bennett and Taylor her manager. So farthey’ve been invited to parliament, become friends with Yoko Onoand featured on BBC Radio 4 Woman’s Hour. Credible LikeableSuperstar Role Model is Taylor's and Bryony’s theatre show. It’s not for kids.

Tickets £11.20


THE HEXAGON

Horrible Histories: BARMY BRITAIN

Tuesday 11 to Saturday 15 MarchTues, 7pm. Wed, 10.30am & 1.30pm. Thurs, 10.30am & 7pm. Fri, 10.30am & 7pm. Sat, 10.30am & 2.30pm.

We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead!So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage with a brandnew show BARMY BRITAIN with all new amazing 3D effects!

Can you beat battling Boudicca? Has William Wallace met his match? Would you lose your heart or head to horrible Henry? Can evil Elizabeth entertainEngland? Will Parliament survive gunpowder Guy? Can King Charles keep hishead? Would you stand and deliver to dastardly Dick Turpin? Escape the clutches of Burke and Hare, dare to dance the Tyburn jig, move to the groovewith party Queen Victoria and prepare to do battle in the frightful First World War!

It’s the horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!

Tickets Adults £18.50, Under 16’s £4 off, Family of 4 (max. 2 adults) £60, Groups 10+ £14, School and Youth Groups £11.20





Blind Summit

The TableWednesday 12 March, 8pm

Moses is a cantankerous 2 foothigh puppet, with a cardboardhead, who lives on a table.And he’s got a problem. All heever gets asked to perform isfairy tales or children’s birthdayparties, and he’s fed up with it.He’s an artist! He’s a seriouspuppet! So tonight the table ishis and anything can happen...Epic puppetry inspired byBeckett, the Bible and Ikea.

“Blind Summit once againprove that when you’reworking in miniature you don’thave to think small” TheGuardian

Tickets £11.20, £10.20Concessions

The SwingCommanders Thursday 13 March, 8pm

Regular festival appearancesin Europe and America haveearned The SwingCommanders an enviablereputation as Britain’s topWestern Swing band. Let thegirls and boys’ mix of Blues,Trad Jazz and exquisite 40’sharmonies take you back to awilder, more glamorous age

Tickets £13 in advance, £15 on the door

THE HEXAGON

HenleySymphonyOrchestra Sunday 9 March, 7.30pm

Conductor, Ian BrownBeethoven Triple Concerto,Trusler Carroll Wass Trio

The Henley SymphonyOrchestra's programme openswith the intoxicatingCaribbean rhythms ofGershwin's 'Cuban Overture'.Beethoven's infrequentlyperformed 'Triple Concerto' forpiano, violin and cello providesa classical interlude before wedance down new York streetsto Bernstein's' West Side Story'and end with another story ofthe merry pranks of 'TilEulenspiegel' by RichardStrauss.

Tickets: £20, £17, £14.U16s/Students, half price.Groups 1 in 8 free1 child free with paying adult£17and £14


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SOUTH STREET CONCERT HALL

Jazz MorleyFriday 14 March, 7.30pm

Jazz Morley returns to SouthStreet on her spring tour insupport of her latest EP Trying toMake Sense which wasproduced by the same award-winning team as herprevious recordings, producerKipper (Grammy & EmmyAward winner) and mixengineer Cameron Craig(double Grammy & Brit Awardwinner).

Tickets £11.20 in advance, £14 on the door

Naturally 7 Saturday 15 March, 7.30pm

Naturally 7 take classic close-harmony style to stratosphericnew heights, mixingbeatboxing with rap, soul, popand jazz.

Building on the heritage ofgospel with a style describedas 'vocal play', the groupperforms its own originalmaterial as well as its inventivearrangements – whichincorporate scratching, drumkit, harmonica, brass, electricguitars and bass all produced,naturally, with the humanvoice.

“Jaw-droppingly impressive”The Independent

Tickets £22


SOUTH STREET

Derek Gripper & Gerard Cousins: ONE NIGHT ON EARTH

Thursday 13 March, 7.30pm

A rare chance to hear SouthAfrican guitarist Derek Gripperperform solos and duos withhis good friend, Readingbased guitarist GerardCousins. Derek is in the UK atthe invitation of classical guitargreat John Williams and willalso be performing with Johnin London’s Globe Theatre.Grab your chance to hearDerek in this intimate settingand experience somestaggering performances fromtwo of the most original andimaginative musicians around.

Tickets £9.20



RoyalPhilharmonicOrchestra CLASSICAL MUSIC ALIVE

Tuesday 18 March, 7.30pm

Thomas Dausgaard, ConductorJohn Lill, Piano

BRAHMSTragic Overture Op.81RACHMANINOVPiano Concerto No.3 in D minorDVORAKSymphony No.8 in G

Pre-concert talk 6.15pmpresented by Peter Avis, TheHexagon Auditorium (FREE)

Tickets: £34 to £18Groups, Children, Family andSchools Concessions Available.

Reading PrimarySchools Event Wednesday 19 March, 7pm

Now in its 69th year, TheReading Primary Schools’ MusicFestival Committee is proud topresent its next musicalcelebration. Let 400 childrenfrom local primary schoolsentertain you with an eveningof song and dance, dramaand poetry.

Tickets TBC

NIE

North North NorthWednesday 19 March, 8pm

In 1897 three Swedishadventurers headed for theNorth Pole in a hydrogen filledballoon. Their aim was toexplore new lands, to map theundiscovered Arctic and toplant the flag of Sweden at thepole. At 2:30pm on the 11thJuly they cut the anchor linesand floated up into the coldarctic air.

They were never seen aliveagain...Using an internationalcast, storytelling, physicaltheatre and live music, awardwinning New InternationalEncounter invite you to jointhem for an exhilaratingjourney into one of the worldslast great wilderness areas. A journey full of hope anddaring do, of frostbite andpatriotic songs. A dream and anightmare of the great whitenorth.

Tickets £11.20, £10.20Concessions


Thursday 20 to Saturday 22 March 2014Thurs, Fri & Sat 7.30pm. Fri & Sat 2.30pm Matinees

This sensational multi award winning West End show returns to Reading. Forget feel good, Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story is FEEL GREAT! Experience the drama, passion and excitement as a cast of phenomenally talented actors and musicians tell Buddy Holly’s story, from his meteoric

rise to fame, to his final legendary performance at The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa.

Featuring two terrific hours of the greatest songs ever written, including That’ll Be The Day, Oh Boy, Rave On, La Bamba, Chantilly Lace, Johnny B. Goode, Raining In My Heart, Everyday,

Shout and many many more, this show is just Peggy Sue-perb!

Thurs, Fri & Sat evening £27.50, £24.50, £19.50. Fri & Sat Matinees £19Early Bird price if booked by 3 Feb 2014 £21.50, Fri evening only. Concessions £3 off.

Groups of 8+, evenings £4 off top price plus 1 in 10 free, Matinees 1 in 10 free.Special Offer: One Child (under 16) FREE and up to two more children half price

when accompanied by a full price paying adult.

AT THE HEXAGON


CONCERT HALL CENTRAL LIBRARY

40 Box Office 0118 960 6060

Joel Dommett: PRACTICAL JOKER - STAND UP

Thursday 20 March, 8pm

Stand up comic Joel Dommett fromBBC3’s Impractical jokers and RussellHoward’s Good News is on tour! Youmay also know Joel from being theface of MTV News throughout 2012,Live in Chelsea (E4) and How toSurvive a Disaster Movie, (Channel 5). Joel is one of the fastest rising stars onthe UK comedy circuit having gainedrave reviews for his debut soloEdinburgh show, Neon Hero, in 2011and his second show NunchuckSilver Medalist 2002 in 2012. Joelwas also in Skins on E4 but his hairwas different and he doesn’t liketo talk about it!

“Dommett has got what it takes tomake it to the top…catch him onthe way up” Daily Telegraph

Tickets £11.20

Reading University in association with Reading Rep present

Science SlamSaturday 22 March,7.30pm

A thrilling competition where scientists presenttheir mind-boggling work in a comprehensibleand accessible way. Each performance will lastno more than six minutes. At the end of theevening the audience must vote and decide:which scientist will thrive and which will struggleto survive. The performances include props,costume, music, audience participation andmuch, much more! Part of the 2014 NationalScience and Engineering week.

Tickets £5

Bradfield College Spring ConcertFriday 21 March, 7.30pm

Bradfield College is a leading, independent co-educational boarding school for 13-18 year olds.Set in its own village, 15 minutes from Reading,the College provides academic excellence forall pupils, alongside outstanding pastoral careand an excellent extra-curricular programme.The Spring Concert will feature performances bythe College Orchestra, String Group, Choirs,Concert Band and Swing Band.

Tickets are FREE and will be available at the door.

Poets Reading for NationalWildlife WeekSaturday 22 March, 3 pm

Local poets Gill Learner, Jean Watkins andWendy Klein will be reading poems fromanthologies published by Grey Hen Press, whospecialize in female poets. The poems are aboutbirds and bees, and the event is part of NationalWildlife Week.

Free event, no need to book. Email [email protected] or phone 0118 901 5950 for more information.





Let’s Sing, READING!Wednesday 26 March, 6.30pm

Local choirs and singing groups take part in thegrand final of the Mayor of Reading’s ChoirCompetition.

From acclaimed Australian company Perth Theatre

The Adventures of Alvin Sputnik: DEEP SEA EXPLORER

Wednesday 26 March, 7pm

Seas have risen, billions have died. Alvin Sputnik is our only hope. He must venture to the bottom of the ocean to find his wife’s lost soul and save humanity.

The Adventures of Alvin Sputnik is a tiny tale set inthe deepest dark blue sea, of a solitary explorerwith a heart as big as a whale.

Tickets £11.20, £9.70 Concessions

Norman Lovett:OLD & NEW

Thursday 27 March, 8pm

The stand-up legend and Red Dwarf star returns with a show which contains thecontinuation of The Sugababes debate amongstmany more subjects. The show will feature hisiPad attached to the microphone stand fromwhich he will depict images onto a screen todelight and astound you. The title of the show is exactly that, a title.

“A true master of his craft” Chortle Tickets £11.20


Winner Best Production Theatre - Auckland Fringe Festival

Tickets £9.20, £4.25 U16’s & Concessions,£21 Family of four (Max 2 Adults) Groups 1 in 10 Free

All proceeds will go directly to the Mayor of Reading’s Charity Fund.www.reading.gov.uk/ourmayor

Wokingham Area SchoolsMusic AssociationconcertsSunday 23 and 30 March, 7pm

Windsor and MaidenheadSchools concertSunday 16 March, 6pm

Tickets available through Clive Waterman on 07769777955


42 Box Office 0118 960 6060

The Magic ofMotown: BABY LOVE – 50 YEARS OF NO1 UK HITS TOUR

Thursday 27 March, 7.30pm

Celebrating 50 years of UKNo1s, the all-new, all-star 2014spectacular boasts more No1sthan ever.The Supremes’ Baby Love wasMotown’s first No1. The legendof the label lives on as five-starperformances revive over 36classics from the Temptations,Supremes, Four Tops, Jackson5, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye,Lionel Richie and more,featuring the dance moves,costumes and musicianshipmade famous by Motown.

Tickets £26.50, Concessions£1.50 off, Groups 10+ £2 off

Runrig: PARTY ON THE TOURANNIVERSARY CONCERT

Friday 28 March, 7.30pm

A special 40th AnniversaryConcert by the legendaryScottish band, after anniversaryevents held in Denmark,Germany and Scotland during2013, culminating last August at‘Party On The Moor’; a hugelysuccessful weekendcelebration of Runrig.

Playing an extensive set in twohalves, inspired by ‘Party OnThe Moor’. There will also besome musical surprises, makingfor a not-to-be-missed, one-offexperience for fans of Runrig.

Tickets £29.50

Voodoo Room Friday 28 March, doors 8pm

Paying tribute to both JimiHendrix & Cream - VoodooRoom are a stunning new“Power Trio” featuring some ofthe UK’s finest musicians. Theyperform an incredible, highenergy show, delivered in thetrue spirit of these legendarysuperstars. Their individualcredits include: SteveWinwood, Duran Duran, Ben E.King, Fish, Thunder, Jo Harman,Thea Gilmore, Lulu etc etc.

“An outstanding performanceOf The Songs Of Legend” BluesIn The South Magazine

Tickets £11.20 in advance, £14on the door




Killer Queen Saturday 29 March, 8pm

Featuring Patrick Myers as Freddie Mercury.

Killer Queen have been performing their tributeto Queen's concert since 1993.Their expert musicianship, extraordinary energyand accurate portrayal of the world's greatestlive band have rightfully earned Killer Queenthe title of Queen tribute royalty.Thrilling sell-out audiences across the globefrom the UK to Moscow, Killer Queen recreatesthe high energy, powerful phenomenon thatwas Queen live.

"This guy is not to be missed" Editor BrianMay.com, official Brian May Website

Tickets £21.50, Groups 10+ £2 off

911: IlluminateTHE HITS AND MORE TOUR

Monday 31 March, 7:30pm

911 are back! The UK went Bodyshakin’ crazy in2013 following the massive success of ITV2’s TheBig Reunion which re-united Lee, Spike & Jimmyalong with 90’pop acts B*Witched, Five,Honeyz, Atomic Kitten, Liberty X and Blue.

They played to 100,000 people as The BigReunion went on a sold out, 16 date UK arenatour in May 2013!

Tickets £24, £22


*OUR DROP-INS ARE VERY POPULAR.PLEASE BE AWARE THAT WE HAVE LIMITED CAPACITY FOR ACTIVITIES IN THE MUSEUM.

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READING MUSEUM

ExhibitionsTHE JOHN MADEJSKI ART GALLERYSaturday 21 September – Sunday 16 March 2014 Making Faces: Tudor to ModernWhat makes a great portrait? Find out in thisimpressive display of over thirty oil paintings fromthe Museum’s art collection. Works range fromTudor and Stuart panel paintings, includingReading’s extraordinary portrait of Elizabeth I, tosecret self-portraits from the 1990s. In betweenthere are Georgian dandies and Victoriancharacters by Thomas Gainsborough andBenjamin Haydon and more informal twentiethcentury images of the friends and acquaintancesof John Minton, John Bratby and Stanley Spencer.Many of the portraits have local connections andall are stunning paintings, together giving animpression of how portrait painting hasdeveloped over four centuries.

Coming Soon: Saturday 5 April – Sunday 14 September 2014 Reading at War Marking the centenary of the First World War’s outbreak, Reading at War will be a focal point for our town to explore how warthroughout history has shaped Reading’scharacter. The exhibition will be complementedby a full programme of events. Look out for full details in the next edition ofWhat’s On and on our websitewww.readingmuseum.org.uk

Community Displays READING: PEOPLE AND PLACETuesday 26 November – Sunday 13 April 2014Jacksons Closing Down DisplayIt will be with sadness that Reading says goodbyeto Jacksons when it closes its doors for the finaltime at the end of 2013. Founded by EdwardJackson in 1875, the shop will be affectionatelyremembered by generations of Reading people.This small community display takes a nostalgic lookat the history of one of Reading’s best lovednames.

Events and TalksSaturday 25 JanuaryLecture: Reading’s Portrait of Elizabeth I One of Reading’s greatest treasures has returnedto the town and the Friends of Reading Museumare fundraising for Tudor education workshops tohelp local schools access this precious painting.Join the Friends to hear guest speaker Dr Elizabeth Goldring discuss the significance of thispainting both to moderneyes and those of theElizabethan court.

The event will includerefreshments.Dr Elizabeth Goldring isFellow at the Centre for theStudy of the Renaissance,University of Warwick.

Adults and older children, 2pm – 3pm£12, for further information and to book email [email protected] or phone 07751 965334

Saturday 1 FebruaryWorkshop: A Community Self Portrait Experience a working photographic studio withinthe Making Faces: Tudor to Modern exhibition and be part of a growing archive oflocal portraits of local people. Join professional photographer Anna Mitchell and sculptor JonLockhart to have your photograph taken and be transported digitally to a variety of exotic andfamiliar locations using editing software. All ages, 1pm – 3.30pm. Free, drop in*

Saturday 1 MarchStudy Day: Making Faces, Great Portraits Join curator Elaine Blake and researchers SandyGardner and Audrey Gregory for a dayconsidering historic portraiture. The day includesan introduction to British portraiture, an in-depthlook at the portraits in our Making Faces: Tudor toModern exhibition and the chance to view somesurprising portraits from the Museum’s works onpaper collection. Adults and older children, 11am – 3pm£20, booking essential (0118 937 3400)

Saturday 8 MarchTalk: Life in Tudor and Stuart Berkshire Early portraits like those in Making Faces: Tudor toModern suggest what people looked like but howdid they live, what did they think and who didthey know? Joan Dils, well known local historianand research fellow in the University of Reading’sDepartment of History, will illuminate their times.Adults and older children, 2pm – 3pm£8, pay on the day, drop in*


www.readingmuseum.org.uk 45

READING MUSEUM

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Saturday 8 FebruaryArt: Small Works Sale Reading Guild of Artists members will be in the SirJohn Madejski Art Gallery with small art works ataffordable prices. Everyone is welcome to browsea range of paintings, prints and sculpture which willbe for sale … you might find the perfect piece tobrighten the February blues! All ages, 10.30am – 3.30pm. Free, drop in*

ART IN THE DARK MONTHS

Monday 13 January Masterclass: Figure Drawing - Portraits Artist Jenny Halstead will lead a structured dayof drawing from life, working with a life model.She will be concentrating on the head andhands, taking inspiration from the Making Faces:Tudor to Modern exhibition in the Gallery. Pleasebring your own easels, drawing boards and drymaterials. Watercolour is allowed but no inks. Adults 16+, 10.15am – 3.30pm£20 (limited spaces available), for further information and to book [email protected] or phone 0118 987 1613

Monday 20 January and Monday 27 January Artist Days If you fancy copying paintings or findinginspiration in their historic techniques and colourcombinations, come and work alongside otherartists, illustrators and makers in the MakingFaces: Tudor to Modern exhibition. What you dois up to you. Bring your own materials andequipment and ignite your practice!Adults 16+, 10.30am – 3.30pm£8 per day (limited spaces available), to discuss permitted media and to book [email protected] or phone 0118 937 3032

Monday 10 February Masterclass: Figure Drawing A second chance to draw from life under theguidance of artist Jenny Halstead, working witha model. The day will be inspired by thesurrounding portraiture but with a twist. Pleasebring your own easels, drawing boards and drymaterials. Watercolour is allowed but no inks.Adults 16+, 10.15am – 3.30pm£20 (limited spaces available), for furtherinformation and to book [email protected] or phone 0118 987 1613

READING MUSEUM

46 Reading Museum 0118 937 3400*OUR DROP-INS ARE VERY POPULAR.PLEASE BE AWARE THAT WE HAVE LIMITED CAPACITY FOR ACTIVITIES IN THE MUSEUM.

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February Half TermDON’T MISS OUR SPECIAL MONDAY OPENING!

Our craft activities this week are inspired by theTudor portraits in our exhibition Making Faces:Tudor to Modern, including the majestic image ofElizabeth I.

ACTIVITY CARTVisit us throughout the holidays and enjoy a range of art and craft activities. All ages, FREE, drop in*

Monday 17 February Make & Take: Kings and Queens Become royalty for the day in your own glittering crown.Families, half-hour sessions 10.30 – 12.30pm &1.30pm – 3.30pm£1, pay on the day, drop in*

Tuesday 18 FebruaryTime Travellers: The Stinking TudorsThe average Tudor only washed twice a year! Richladies and gentlemen would use perfumed soapsto disguise their body odour. A chance to makesoap balls perfumed with herbs and scented oil inthis fun hands-on experience.Ages 5+, Families, 1-hour sessions starting at 10am,11.15am, 1pm & 2.15pm£3, pay on the day, drop in*

Tuesday 18 FebruaryVictorian Schoolroom ExperienceMeet a Victorian schoolteacher and re-learn the‘3Rs’. A 45-minute experience for adults andchildren over 5 in our unique Victorian classroom.11.30am, 1.15pm & 2.30pm£1 per person, drop in (35 places max per session)*

Wednesday 19 February Make & Take: Elizabeth and her JesterTake a look at the fantastic portrait of Elizabeth I inour exhibition and make a striking mask of her orher brightly coloured Jester.Families, half-hour sessions 10.30 – 12.30pm &1.30pm – 3.30pm£1, pay on the day, drop in*

Thursday 20 February Time Travellers: A Tudor Sword and ShieldDuring battle or jousting it could be difficult to tellwho was who. The Tudor knights and their followerswore a coat of arms to show exactly who theirfamily was. Fashion a sword and then design yourown special coat of arms and use it to decorate afabulous 3D design on your shield.Ages 7+, 2-hour sessions from 10am – 12pm & 1pm – 3pm £7, booking essential (0118 937 3400)

Easter HolidaysThe Museum will be open on Good Friday andEaster Monday 11am – 4pm. We will be closed onEaster Sunday.

ACTIVITY CARTVisit us throughout the holidays and enjoy a range of art and craft activities. All ages, FREE, drop in*

Tuesday 8 April Dig for Victory: Grow your Own SeedsDuring the Second World War the government encouraged the nation to start planting vegetables, transforming gardens and parks. Create your own recycled paper pots and plant some seeds to help beat rationing!Ages 5+, Families, 1-hour sessions starting at 10am,11.15am, 1pm & 2.15pm£3, pay on the day, drop in*

Tuesday 8 AprilSecond World War Schoolroom ExperienceWhat were schooldays like over 70 yearsago? To mark our exhibition Reading at War we will be running a special wartime version of our unique schoolroom experience.Ages 5+, 11.30am, 1.15pm & 2.30pm£1 per person, drop in (35 places max per session)*

Wednesday 9 April Make & Take: Wartime ToysTake on the Make Do and Mend philosophy of wartime and get creative to make your own fantastic toy from recycled materials.Families, half-hour sessions 10.30 – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 3.30pm£1, pay on the day, drop in*

www.readingmuseum.org.uk 47

Tuesday 15 April Make Do and Mend: Easter Egg CosiesRationing was introduced in both World Wars. Canyou imagine being a wartime child when bothchocolate and eggs were rationed?! Powderedegg was used and fresh eggs would have been aspecial treat. Celebrate Easter by making yourown bright felt egg cosy.Ages 5+, Families, 1-hour sessions starting at 10am,11.15am, 1pm & 2.15pm£3, pay on the day, drop in*

Wednesday 16 AprilMake & Take: Rabbit or Chick Easter HatsOur modern take on the traditional Easter bonnet.Families, half-hour sessions between 10am – 12pm& 1pm – 3pm50p, pay on the day, drop in*

Thursday 17 April Whizz, Bang, Wallop! Due to popular demand our Whizz, Bang, Wallop!activity is back. Create some fun experiments witheveryday materials, including bubble printing andmaking cornflour gloop and foaming monsters.Ages 7+, 2-hour sessions from 10.00am – 12.00pm & 1.00pm – 3.00pm£7, booking essential (0118 937 3400)

READING MUSEUM


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SOUTH STREET

SOUTH STREET

THE HEXAGON

Darklands SPECIAL WITH JOHN ROBB

Saturday 25 January, 8pm till Midnight

Darklands is proud toannounce that John Robb willbe DJ’ing for this special. Johnwas in the legendary punkband Membranes beforeforming Goldblade in 1994. Heis a well respected musicjournalist having written theStone Roses Biography, TheNorth Will Rise Again, andDeath To Trad Rock. He alsocontributed to Sounds andMelody Maker as a Journalistand has appeared on TheCulture Show and BBC 6 musicto name but a few.In 2011 Robb launched onlinerock music and pop culturemagazine/blog called LouderThan War focusing on artsnews, reviews, and features. Inits first year, in November 2011,John was voted to win theUK Association of IndependentMusic 'Indie Champion' award.

£3.50 entry on the door

RBL Theatre Company present

Andy’s New Toy Monday 7 to Wednesday 9April, 1.30pm to 4.30pm

A Musical Theatre workshopbased on Toy Story for ages 4 to 8.

£47 for 3 days£10 discount per sibling

Book atwww.readingbetweenthelines.co.ukFor sibling discounts call 0118 960 6060For enquiries call Dani Davies 0791 944 5939 or [email protected]

Alice inWonderlandSunday 13 April, 6pm &Monday 14 April, 2pm & 6pm

A legendary magician and thecountry's most popularventriloquist will star in thisEaster show full of fun for thewhole family. Steve Hewlett, the ventriloquistwho shot to fame on ITV1'sBritain's Got Talent will, alongwith one of his friends, playTweedle Dum and TweedleDee in the show.

Paul Daniels, along withDebbie McGee, is regarded asone of the best magicians inthe world, and will bring hisunique style of comedy andmagic to the show, with thedouble act playing the King ofHearts and the White Rabbit.

With a fabulous live band,hilarious comedy, mindblowing magic, spectacularsets and a West End calibrecast, this is an Easter treat thatis truly not to be missed!

Tickets £19, U16's £16, Familyof four £65, Groups 10+ £15.50

stop press

48 Box Office 0118 960 6060


Near Year Children’s ActivitiesSunday 13 April, 6pm & Monday 14 April, 2pm & 6pm

Caversham LibraryThursday 2 January, 2.15pm – 3.15pmCrafty Cards and Calendars! Please call Caversham Library on 0118 9015103.

Southcote LibraryThursday 2 January, 10.30am – 11.30amFace Masks!Paces limited, booking essential. Suitable for children aged 6 to10. Book through Southcote Library on 0118 9015109.

Reading Central LibraryFriday 3 January 10.30am – 11.30amNew Years Elephant Chain and Festive Masks.Craft session for over 6 year olds. No booking required.Please call Reading Central Library on 0118 9015950.

Whitley LibraryFriday 3 January 10.30am – 11.30amAssorted Crafts!Places limited, please book. Suitable for all children 9 and under.Book through Whitley Library on 0118 9015115.

Half Term ActivitiesPalmer Park LibraryMonday 17th February, 10am – 11amClay Modelling!Craft activity for 5+ but parental help required. 15 places only on a first come first served basis.Any queries call Palmer Park Library on 0118 9015106.

Central LibraryFriday 21 February,Help the Dinosaurs are coming!Please call Reading Central Library on 0118 9015950 for further details.

Whitley LibraryFriday 21 February, 10.30am - 11.30amDesign your own scratch art bookmarks!Places limited, please book. Suitable for all children 9 and under. Parents and carers need to stay with children under 8.Book through Whitley Library on 0118 9015115

For further details on all Reading Libraries, please visit: www.readinglibraries.org.uk


READING LIBRARIES


regularevents

Thirdsday Blues The regular and much loved Blues night at SouthStreet continues on the third Thursday of the monthwith the very best national and local Blues artists.

Thursday 16 January, doors 8pmThe Absentees

Thursday 20 February, doors 8pmThe Original Rabbit Foot Spasm Band

Thursday 20 March, doors 8pmGuy Tortora

Tickets for each show £14, £10.20 members

The 3rd Friday of each monthDoors 8pm, poetry begins at 8.30pm

Poets CaféA.F Harrold: Writer, comedian and champion of allthings poetical, hosts Reading’s longest runningand best loved poetry platform. There will be anopen mic session, where all are welcome to readtheir work in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.This is followed by a full reading by some of thecountry’s finest poets.Friday January 17 Sue HubbardFriday February 21Claire Trevien & Oliver DixonFriday March 21Julia BirdFriday April 18Ian HouseFriday May 16Hollie McNish

Tickets £5, £4 for readers

SOUTH STREET REGULAR EVENTS


Reading Youth Theatre Offering young people the opportunity todevelop their drama skills in a relaxed and funenvironment. Led by experienced tutors, thegroups will work towards performances whichare then staged at South Street’s professionallyrun Studio Theatre.

Mondays – Seniors24 February – 21 July (excluding 7, 14 & 21 April, 5 & 26 May)(Performing on 15 & 16 July)

Seniors: 6pm – 8pmYears 7 – 13£95 per term

For further information please contact South Street Arts Centre on 0118 937 3456

DarklandsHeld on the last Saturday of the month.Saturday 25 Jan, 15 Feb, 29 March. 8pm till midnight.

South Street is proud to partner one of Reading'smost exciting new club nights on the last Saturday ofevery month. 'Darklands' walks the thin line betweenalternative and obscure, focussing on alternativemusic from the 60s, 70s, 80s and early 90s. Expect tohear slices of post-punk, fuzz, C86, Goth, Electronic,Indie pop and Industrial and the odd obscure singleor two. 'Darklands' is on Facebook.

Free Entry.

SOUTH STREET REGULAR EVENTSSOUTH STREET REGULAR EVENTS

Saturdays - Juniors1 March - 19 July(excluding 12 & 19 April, 3 & 31 May)

Juniors 1, 10am – 11amYears 1, 2 & 3£75 per term

Juniors 2: 11.15am –12.15pmYears 4, 5 & 6£75 per term


Lunchtime Organ Recitals The Concert Hall continues its regular series oflunchtime recitals by local and internationallyrenowned organists.Recitals run for approx 50mins.

Wednesday 22 January, 1pmEleni Keventsidou, Athens & London

Wednesday 5 March, 1pmChris Bragg, Glasgow

Wednesday 30 April, 1pmRichard Brasier, Germany & London

Wednesday 2 July, 1pmA Student from Eton College

Tickets for each recital £4.75

3rd Monday of the month, 10.30am – 11.30amCoffee MorningWith a different speaker every month.Free event, just drop in.

Last Wednesday of the month, 2nd Floor, 3pm–4pmCraft and ChatBring along your own knitting, sewing and craft.Relax, meet people and share ideas.Free event, just drop in.

Third Thursday of the month, 5pm – 7pmPlay Reading GroupA group of people who enjoy reading plays butdon’t want to perform them.No dramatic experience is needed.For more information e-mail –[email protected] phone Ann Smith on 0118 901 5955

CONCERT HALL REGULAR EVENTS

CENTRAL LIBRARY

READING MUSEUM REGULAR EVENTS

Reading Museum Regular Events

EVERY SATURDAY Bayeux Tapestry ToursEnjoy a guided tour of the famous full-sizefacsimile Tapestry – no need to book.All ages, 2.15pm - 3pm. Suggested donation £2, drop in

EVERY WEDNESDAY Tales for Tots: Story-time for the under 5sDrop in and catch a story using objects from our collection. Under 5s, 10.30am - 11.30am. Free, drop in

EVERY THURSDAY Museum Surgery Visitors can discover more about the collections,or ask for help in identifying interesting objects(NB no valuations can be given). 12pm - 4pm. Free, drop in

Steel Band Workshops Thursdays Beginners 4.45pm – 5.30pmRASPO Steel Band Rehearsal 5.30pm - 6.30pm

Join Reading All Steel Percussion Orchestra (RASPO)and learn how to play steel pan instruments for anauthentic Caribbean music experience led byfriendly tutors. All ages and abilities are welcome.Workshops are free.

For further info see www.culturemixarts.co.uk As spaces are limited please register your interest byemailing [email protected]


EDUCATION

Education in the Arts

Reading has a varied programme of activities forchildren and adults that give them insight into artsand culture.

Reading Museum & Town Hall

Reading Museum has been offering learningopportunities to schools for over 100 years. We havehundreds of fascinating loan boxes for schools toborrow. We also offer a variety of interactiveeducation sessions for children of all ages.

For more information or advice please see ourwebsite www.readingmuseum.org.uk or [email protected]

Theatre

For many children a visit to the theatre with theirschool is the first chance they have to experience alive theatre performance. The Hexagon has a strongreputation for delivering high quality shows,including many fantastic pantomimes over theyears. If you are interested in bring your class to ashow or pantomime there are special offers ongroup bookings. Please contact Storme Gibson formore details 0118 937 2011

PARKS & OPEN SPACES


Spring EventsWe are responsible for the managing andmaintaining Reading’s parks and open spacesestate, comprising of over 100 parks, lakes andplaygrounds.

Here are just a few of the activities happening atReading’s parks this spring.

John Davis Fun FairHills MeadowFriday 7 to Sunday 23 February**dates subject to change

Biodiversity in BerkshireForbury GardensSunday 23 March, 12noon - 4pmThames Valley Branch of the British ScienceAssociation are inviting the public to participate inhands on activities to search for wildlife in theForbury Gardens with the assistance of localexperts, learning about ecological monitoring andconservation techniques.

British Heart Foundation London to Reading Bike RideFinishing at Christchurch MeadowsSunday 23 MarchSetting off from Kempton Park Race course the 40mile route will take you through the outer fringes ofLondon into the beautiful countryside and openroads beyond. Until you reach ChristchurchMeadows in the heart of the bustling town ofReading. London to Reading is ideal for thoselooking to get fit, training for another event or justwanting to get a bit more active in 2014.

For full details of Reading Parks and Open Spaces, please contact the Parks team on 0118 937 3848or visit: wwwreading.gov.uk/parks

how tobook tickets venue

information

The HexagonQueens Walk, Reading RG1 7UABox Office: 0118 960 6060www.readingarts.comCafé 6 is open Mon-Fri 10am – 4pm and 1 hourbefore a show and 1 hour before a show Sat & Sun. The Theatre Bar is open 1 hour before a show, with extended opening after selected events.

Concert Hall/Town HallBlagrave Street, Reading RG1 1QHAdmin: 0118 937 3400www.readingarts.comPalmers Café is open Mon – Sat 10am – 3pm

South Street21 South Street, Reading RG1 4QUAdmin: 0118 937 3456www.readingarts.comThe Box Office and bar at South Street are notopen full time and will usually open 1 hour beforeany evening performance, except when the showis advertised with a “doors” time.

Reading MuseumBlagrave Street, Reading RG1 1QHAdmin: 0118 937 3400www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Reading Sport & LeisurePalmer Park Sports StadiumWokingham Road, Reading RG6 1LFAdmin: 0118 937 5080www.readingleisure.co.uk

Reading Central LibraryAbbey Square, Reading RG1 3BQAdmin: 0118 901 5955www.readinglibraries.org.uk

Berkshire Record Office9 Coley Avenue, Reading Admin: 0118 937 5132www.berkshirerecordoffice.org.uk

All tickets for The Hexagon, Concert Hall & South Street are available in advance from the Reading Arts Box Office.

Box Office: 0118 960 6060Online: www.readingarts.comGroup Bookings: Contact our dedicated group sales co-ordinator for details of group discounts, prioritybookings, advance notifications, extendedreservation periods, education packs and much more. Storme Gibson 0118 937 2011 or [email protected]

PaymentAll major credit and debit cards are accepted,except Diners and American Express.Cheques should be made payable toReading Borough Council.

All tickets are INCLUSIVE of a booking fee through Reading Arts and Venues and any third party agency sales.

There is a £1.20 per ticket fee for tickets up to andincluding £10 and £2 per ticket fee for ticketsgreater than £10. Tickets with a face value of up toand including £5 are subject to a fee of 25p perticket.

The booking fee applies to ticket purchases madewith credit cards, debit cards, cheques and cash.Bookings made in person with a pre-paid debit cardare not subject to a booking fee.

Standing events.All standing tickets are unreserved generaladmission; the seating plan and ticket number arefor administration purposes only.Please note thatUnder 14’s will not be permitted into the standingarena. All under 14’s must be accompanied by anadult (18yrs or over) and seated in the balcony. The advertised time for standing events is the doorstime and bears no relation to the performancetime. Exact timings will be confirmed nearer the timeand will be available from the box office or viareadingarts.com. To ensure your safety, security willbe present to search bags on arrival. No food ordrink may be brought into the venue.Professional cameras are not permitted at eventsand will not be allowed into the auditorium. Pleasebe aware that concerts of this nature use varioustheatrical lighting and smoke effects, and mayhave high sound levels. The management reserve the right to refuse entry and to make

any changes to the information contained in this brochure without prior notice in the event of illness or any other unavoidable cause.

54 Box Office 0118 960 6060


The Hexagon

Sunday 13 & Monday 14 April, various times

Alice in Wonderland

An Easter family show with Paul Daniels,

Debbie McGee & Steve Hewlett

The Hexagon

Tuesday 29 April, 8pm

The Solid Silver 60s Show

With the Tremeloes, Chris Farlowe & Wayne Fontana

The Hexagon

Friday 2 & Saturday 3 May, various times

Science Museum Live: The Energy Show

Explosive family theatre for curious minds

Box Office 0118 960 6060

Readingarts.com

South Street

Sunday 11 May, doors 7.45pm

Boo Hewerdine

Frontman of ‘The Bible’ and songwriter for

many a pop star

The Hexagon

Thursday 22 May, 8pm

Joe Brown

The ‘Bruvver’ back on tour

The Hexagon

Sunday 25 & Monday 26 May

Snooker Legends: Legends Cup 2014

with Jimmy White, Steve Davis & Stephen Hendry

The Hexagon

Tuesday 17 June, 7.30pm

Pasha and Katya

The Stars of Strictly, on tour

The Hexagon

Thursday 19 to Sunday 22 June, various times

Scooby Do Live:

The Mystery of the Pyramid - Zoinks!!

comingsoonTO READING CULTURE & SPORT

Prinect PDF Report 12.0.028 - 1 - 12/10/2013 06:42:55 PM

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AvantGardeLT-Demi: Character is not defined (".notdef") #14 (11,19,34,41-42,46-48,51)BrandonGrotesque-Bold: Character is not defined (".notdef") #1 (15)FranklinGothic-Medium-Identity-H: Character is not defined correctly #2 (5)Helvetica and Helvetica have the same unique identifierAvantGardeLT-Book and AvantGardeLT-Book have the same unique identifierAvantGardeLT-Demi and AvantGardeLT-Demi have the same unique identifier


ImagesColor image resolution 60 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (8)Color image resolution 100 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (14)Color image resolution 105 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (40)Color image resolution 106 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (37)Color image resolution 110 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (9)Color image resolution 117 dpi is below 190 dpi #2 (10,19)Color image resolution 120 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (28)Color image resolution 121 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (50)Color image resolution 122 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (31)Color image resolution 123 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (46)Color image resolution 124 dpi is below 190 dpi #3 (7,49,53)Color image resolution 125 dpi is below 190 dpi #3 (1,34-35)Color image resolution 127 dpi is below 190 dpi #3 (30-31,45)Color image resolution 128 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (11)Color image resolution 130 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (16)Color image resolution 131 dpi is below 190 dpi #2 (31,42)Color image resolution 133 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (8)Color image resolution 134 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (25)Color image resolution 135 dpi is below 190 dpi #2 (19,26)Color image resolution 136 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (21)Color image resolution 137 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (35)Color image resolution 138 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (31)Color image resolution 139 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (44)Color image resolution 140 dpi is below 190 dpi #2 (13,53)Color image resolution 141 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (46)Color image resolution 142 dpi is below 190 dpi #3 (9,26-27)Color image resolution 144 dpi is below 190 dpi #2 (41,48)Color image resolution 145 dpi is below 190 dpi #2 (4-5)Color image resolution 146 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (33)Color image resolution 147 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (6)Color image resolution 149 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (44)Color image resolution 150 dpi is below 190 dpi #5 (6,10,19,40,55)Color image resolution 153 dpi is below 190 dpi #2 (28,46)Color image resolution 154 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (51)Color image resolution 156 dpi is below 190 dpi #2 (12,45)Color image resolution 157 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (24)Color image resolution 159 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (7)Color image resolution 160 dpi is below 190 dpi #2 (23,35)Color image resolution 164 dpi is below 190 dpi #3 (12,14,17)Color image resolution 167 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (29)Color image resolution 168 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (49)Color image resolution 169 dpi is below 190 dpi #2 (26,28)Color image resolution 170 dpi is below 190 dpi #4 (20,25,40,50)Color image resolution 171 dpi is below 190 dpi #4 (17,27,40,43)Color image resolution 172 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (15)


Color image resolution 175 dpi is below 190 dpi #6 (1,37,44-47)Color image resolution 177 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (48)Color image resolution 179 dpi is below 190 dpi #2 (10,20)Color image resolution 180 dpi is below 190 dpi #6 (1,37,44-47)Color image resolution 182 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (16)Color image resolution 186 dpi is below 190 dpi #1 (44)

ContentLine weight 0.027 mm is below hairline threshold 0.076 mm #1 (34)Line weight 0.035 mm is below hairline threshold 0.076 mm #1 (34)Line weight 0.044 mm is below hairline threshold 0.076 mm #3 (12,26,35)Line weight 0.070 mm is below hairline threshold 0.076 mm #1 (52)

Additional informationColor separations: 4

CMYK

Color spacesDeviceCMYK / DeviceGray / Separation

Fonts: 23AvantGardeLT-Book (2x) Type1 / Custom / embedded subsetAvantGardeLT-Demi (2x) Type1 / Custom / embedded subsetBrandonGrotesque-Bold Type1 / Custom / embedded subsetCarton Type1 / WinAnsi / embedded subsetCooperBlackStd-Italic Type1 / WinAnsi / embedded subsetFranklinGothic-Medium-Identity-H Type1 (CID) / Identity-H / embedded subsetHelvetica (2x) Type1 / Custom / embedded subsetHelveticaNeue-Roman Type1 / WinAnsi / embedded subsetHelveticaNeue-Thin Type1 / WinAnsi / embedded subsetHelveticaNeue-ThinItalic Type1 / WinAnsi / embedded subsetHouschka-Bold-Identity-H Type1 (CID) / Identity-H / embedded subsetKristenITC-Regular-Identity-H Type1 (CID) / Identity-H / embedded subsetLubalinGraph-Book Type1 / WinAnsi / embedded subsetLubalinGraph-Demi Type1 / WinAnsi / embedded subsetNeutraText-BookAlt Type1 / WinAnsi / embedded subsetTimesNewRomanPSMT,Bold-Identity-H

Type1 (CID) / Identity-H / embedded subsetTrajan-Bold Type1 / WinAnsi / embedded subsetTrajan-Regular Type1 / WinAnsi / embedded subsetWisdomScriptAI Type1 / WinAnsi / embedded subsetZapfDingbats Type1 / Custom / embedded subset

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