Maestros brings together two acclaimed moving image installations by the Turner Prize-winning artist Douglas Gordon. Exhibited for the first time together at the Mead Gallery, both works offer a compelling portrait of virtuoso talent.

In Feature Film (1999) the camera hones in on conductor James Conlon as he leads the Paris Opera Orchestra. Zidane (2006) zooms in on a different kind of orchestration, following French footballer Zinedine Zidane through the course of an entire match.

In both works the maestros are immersed in their own space, performing with and at the same time abstracted from the players around them.

Feature Film is presented as part of The Artangel Collection, a national initiative in association with Tate, supported by Arts Council England, The Esme Fairbairn Foundation and The John Ellerman Foundation.

Feature Film was co-produced by Artangel & Centre Georges Pompidou, Muse National d’Art Moderne, Paris as The Artangel / Beck’s commission in association with K”lnischer Kunstverein.

FREE Lunchtime Concerts
Thursdays 1.10pm
Ensemble Room, Music Centre,
Warwick Arts Centre

Come along to the Music Centre at lunchtime on Thursdays and check out our series of FREE concerts.

As well as supporting the student ensembles of the University, the Music Centre also hosts performances from professional artists.

26 Apr Mami Shikimori, piano
3 May David Gordon, piano and Jonty Fisher, bass
10 May Ani Karapetyan, violin
17 May Clare Duckworth, violin and Helen Leek, piano
24 May Matthew Forbes, cello
31 May Piano Showcase
7 June Gina Beukes, violin and Helen Leek, piano
14 June Joanna Stark, bassoon and Lynn Carter, piano
21 June Kalia Baklitzanaki, nay flute
28 June Music Centre Students

Knit, Stitch and Crochet Club, is a free, social group for all those creatives that share a common passion for knitting, crochet, stitching, beading etc.

We welcome people of all abilities, it’s a great chance to meet like-minded people, learn new skills, and share the skills that you already have.

The Knit, Stitch and Crochet Club runs during term time every Thursday from 6-7pm in the Mead Gallery

In this colourful and deeply humane portrait of the French harbour city that gives the film its name, fate throws young African refugee Idrissa (Miguel) into the path of Marcel Marx (Wilms), a well-spoken bohemian who works as a shoeshiner.

With innate optimism and the unwavering support of his community, Marcel stands up to officials who are doggedly pursuing the boy for deportation. A political fairy tale that exists somewhere between the reality of contemporary France and the classic cinema of Michael Carné (Quai des Brumes), Le Havre is a charming, deadpan delight.

Winner of the FIPRESCI Prize at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival.

“Subversively funny” The Wall Street Journal

“Seductively funny, offbeat and warm-hearted” **** The Guardian

After Jackie Coogan’s heart-rending performance in Chaplin’s The Kid, his father formed a company to exploit the talented 7 year old. The boy who asked for more was an obvious choice. One of the earliest film adaptations of Dickens’ work, this silent version of Oliver Twist features wonderful performances from Coogan and Lon Chaney as Fagin. A spirited and charming production, it was believed lost for decades and was only rediscovered in the 1970s.

Music is performed by the UK’s greatest practitioner of silent movie accompaniment, Neil Brand.

“Like cherry syrup. Thick blood. Leaks out like a punctured bucket. I bring my game to an end in the heart of the dead continent.”

In a city tainted by the aftermath of war, an orphaned girl must take matters into her own hands to survive the occupation, censorship and corruption that surround her. Ripped from her previous sheltered life, Rita learns to adapt her persona to the derelict and unforgiving nature of a war-ridden city. From an unscathed individual to a contaminated being, this is the gripping tale of a girl who is made a monster by her unrepentant desire to be this generation’s film star. She will lie. She will cheat. She will steal. No betrayal is too extreme and no person important enough to stop her.

Student theatre company Freshblood are proud to present the English-speaking premiere of Thomas Brasch’s unsettling work.

Weber – Der Freischutz
Mozart – Piano Concerto No.21 (Elvia Madegan)
Interval
Beethoven – Symphony No.3

“If I could wage war like I can write music, I would destroy him!”

Ludwig van Beethoven was the ultimate musical revolutionary, and he wrote his Third Symphony as a tribute to the ultimate revolutionary warrior – Napoleon Bonaparte. So when Napoleon betrayed his radical ideals, Beethoven tore up the score in an explosion of rage. There’s never been a symphony like the Eroica; two centuries later, music is still reeling from the shockwaves. With the right conductor and orchestra, it’s one of music’s most electrifying experiences, so we’re in luck: the veteran conductor Alexander Liebreich has this music in his blood, and no orchestra is more drenched in the German tradition than the Berlin Symphony.

That should make for some suitably demonic thrills in Weber’s spooktastic Freischutz overture, too. First, though, youth meets tradition as the remarkable 20-year old piano virtuoso Kit Armstrong brings all his freshness and imagination to Mozart’s best-loved piano concerto.

Pre-concert talk

Conference Room 6.45pm

Brian Midgley, lecturer in Music at the University of Warwick talks about the works in tonight’s programme.

Tickets £2, Subscribers £1

Please call the Box Office to book your ticket for this pre-concert talk on 024 7652 4524.

Browse the Concert Series 2011/12 below

Lasse Hallström (Chocolat, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape) returns to direct a wonderfully entertaining adaptation of the novel by Paul Torday, with a charming screenplay by Oscar-winner Simon Beaufoy (Slumdog Millionaire, The Full Monty).

Fred Jones (McGregor), a fisheries expert, finds himself enlisted by a sheik’s representative (Blunt) to join a madcap expedition to the Middle East in order to help realise a vision of bringing the sport of fly-fishing to the desert. Encouraged by the Prime Minister’s waspish Press Secretary (Scott Thomas) who latches onto a ‘good will’ story, the unlikely hero embarks on an upstream journey of fish, faith and love.

A return to stand up and much much more.

Discover the bizarre workings of Paul Merton’s brain, as he muses on the mighty behemoth that is his noggin. Paul returns to his stand-up roots for the first time this century. Away from the Have I got News For You desk Paul Merton proves he’s got legs.

A night of sketches, music, magic and, variety.

With Paul Merton, Lee Simpson, Richard Vranch and Suki Webster.

Please note, some comedians use strong language and express controversial opinions. Please come prepared.

Enjoy 10% discount off ice creams and sorbets when you pre-order when purchasing your ticket from Box Office or online. Add an ice cream to your basket now or mention to our Box Office when you call to book your ticket. Find out more here

Having adapted the short story by George Moore and played the title character in the stage version in 1982, Glenn Close stars as the woman passing herself off as a man (Albert Nobbs) in order to work and survive in 19th Century Ireland. Thirty years after donning men’s clothing to gain employment as a hotel waiter, she finds herself trapped in a prison of her own making.

With multiple nominations, including Oscar nods for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress, Glenn Close and Janet McTeer lead a prestigious international cast.

“A jaw-dropping performance by Glenn Close…brilliant” Newsweek

“Janet McTeer is astonishing…a gripping ensemble piece” The Guardian

Get busy printing lots and lots of faces. Take some home and give others away to the arts centre’s visitors as acts of random kindness.

Age: 6+

Tickets available in advance or on the day from Box Office on 024 7652 4524. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

For further details phone the Mead Gallery assistants on 024 7652 2589 (12noon – 9pm, Mon – Sat).

Award-winning Japanese animated fantasy film in which two young girls move to the country to be close to their ailing mother. Whilst playing they discover that there are friendly spirits living in the woods around the house.

A special screening of one of the films that inspired Douglas Gordon and Philippe Parreno in the making of Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait, currently on show in the Mead Gallery at Warwick Arts Centre.

Costard trained eight 16mm film cameras on the Manchester United legend, George Best, during a First Division match against Coventry City at Old Trafford in September 1970. The film shows the whole game, from the warm-up onwards and although other players can be glimpsed, Charlton and Law among them, there is no doubt as to who is the star of the show.

The result is a fascinating and moving portrait of a man whose virtuosity lit up the world of football.

The star of Mock The Week, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow and Live At The Apollo, embarks on a brand new tour with a fantastic and hilarious new show!

“A brilliant comic brain… this stand-up cracks some of the best one liners I’ve ever heard”. Guardian

“Perfectly crafted gags”. Sunday Times

Official Website

Some comedians use very strong language and express controversial opinions. Please come prepared.

Enjoy 10% discount off ice creams and sorbets when you pre-order when purchasing your ticket from Box Office or online. Add an ice cream to your basket now or mention to our Box Office when you call to book your ticket. Find out more here

A kinetic, joyful, twelve piece band that chases jazz, blues, Motown, folk and soul without ever quite managing to catch up. Performing an eclectic mix of tunes arranged in the ‘Steamchicken style’, the music becomes a genre unto itself; messy, noisy, experimental and brilliantly captivating.

The band traces a redefined path through music history in their two-hour show, which provides information, shows respect, and celebrates the roots of the music.

Fronted by lead singer Becky Wolff; a ‘star in the making’ who continues to amaze audiences with her unique blues vocals, the Chickens have enjoyed a brilliant reception this year with rave reviews.

With an age range from 17 to 70, the musicians in Steamchicken are what make the band so diverse. With a piano, bass, harmonica, drums, mandolin, melodeon, voice and lots of horns the Chickens have been successfully ‘winging it’ for years.

Camille O’Sullivan enjoys a formidable international reputation for her dramatic interpretations of the songs of Nick Cave, Tom Waits, David Bowie and more. Chameleon-like on stage, each song has a different character with its own story to tell. The award-winning singer has stunned audiences around the world with 5-star sell-out performances, including Sydney Opera House, London’s Royal Festival Hall and a show-stealing appearance on Later with Jools Holland (BBC TV).

Dark, fierce, amusing and mesmerizing, Camille transforms each song into an intense theatrical experience, drawing her audience into a world illuminated by the dark and the light. Expect fire, ice, darkness, joy and pure passion.

“O’Sullivan is completely transporting: her emotions painfully raw, her dark, night-tinged versions of familiar and less familiar songs both heartbreaking and unexpected.” **** Daily Telegraph

“Raunchy, dangerously fragile. An exceptional voice” ***** Edinburgh Evening News

“A performer in the true sense of the word who lives for song and being able to perform for her audience. Track her down, soak her up.” The Public Reviews

The brilliant duo of the Dardenne brothers (Rosetta, L’Enfant) return with this heartfelt and ultimately uplifting tale of a young boy struggling at the edge of society. In a working-class suburb of Liège, eleven-year-old Cyril (brilliant newcomer Doret) is abandoned by his father and taken into care. By chance, he finds a surrogate parent in the form of a kindly hairdresser (de France).

Revisiting the film-makers classic themes of parenthood, the need for trust and the search for love, the film has a simplicity and force that rightly made it a favourite at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival.

“A big-hearted film far more complex than its brisk simplicity may at first suggest” Time Out

In 1992, the German-born writer W G Sebald set off on a philosophical and physical journey through the countryside of Suffolk, a route that he later recreated for his landmark book The Rings of Saturn. In an immensely enjoyable, multilayered documentary film, Grant Gee (Joy Division, Meeting People is Easy) retraces that journey tracking the work and influence of this most distinctive writer.

True to the spirit of Sebald’s writing, Gee’s film examines everything from memory, history, walking, nature, war and death, but remains always digressive and elusive. Excerpts from The Rings of Saturn itself are read by Jonathan Pryce and layered across grainy black and white East Anglian images.

In the years since her untimely death, Sandy Denny has emerged as one of the UK’s greatest singersongwriters. Comprehensive re-issuing of all her recordings in recent years has seen her reputation continue to grow, and this very special performance showcases for the first time her entire musical legacy, taking in her work with Fairport Convention, Fotheringay, her solo career and the new songs completed by Thea Gilmore on her acclaimed album Don’t Stop Singing.

Thea joins a unique line up of artists including Maddy Prior, Green Gartside (Scritti Polliti), Dave Swarbrick, and Jerry Donahue, alongside Joan Wasser (Joan As Police Woman), PP Arnold and young admirers including Lavinia Blackwall, Sam Carter, Ben Nicholls, Blair Dunlop and other guests performing with a ‘super group’ house band of core members of Bellowhead to reveal the lady described by Richard Thompson as ‘the greatest British female artist of her generation’.

Pre-Show Talk

There will be a free pre-show talk at 6.45pm with Patrick Humphries featuring Sandy Denny songs and images. Patrick is a music writer for Mojo and Record Collector. He is a regular contributor to Radio 2 and broadcaster on Radio 5 and 6 Music, and over the years, Patrick has also written biographies of Nick Drake, Fairport Convention and Richard Thompson. Patrick interviewed Sandy whilst writing for NME in 1977. There are a limited number of tickets available to ticket holders for The Lady. Pre-show talk tickets must be booked at the Box Office on 024 7652 4524.

We are going to ask you to bring money to this FREE show.

Meet a woman whose life has gone wrong. Widowed and with child, widowed again, divorced, and desperate.

Playful, moving and very funny, Hannah Ringham’s Free Show (bring money) invites you, the audience, into the theatre and asks you to decide: what do you value?

“She made about £280 an hour the night I was there – and yes, she was worth it” **** The Guardian

Scotsman – Top 10 of the Fringe

Age: 16+. Book in advance at Box Office.

As a performer, Grammy-nominated pianist Robert Glasper has long kept one foot planted firmly in jazz, and the other in hip hop. Known for mixing up Thelonius Monk and Herbie Hancock and throwing in a little bit of Radiohead or Nirvana for good measure, Glasper has also recorded with artists such as Kanye West and Mos Def.

His latest project is no exception. Following two sell-out shows at the 2011 London Jazz Festival, Glasper returns to the UK to mark the launch of Black Radio, a future landmark album for Blue Note that boldly stakes out new musical territory, drawing on jazz, hip hop, R&B and rock, but refusing to be defined by any one genre.

Line-up:
Robert Glasper – piano
Casey Benjamin – sax / vocoder
Derrick Hodge – bass
Mark Colenburg – drums

Recent winners of the Burghausen European Young Artists’ Jazz Award 2011, the Beats & Pieces Big Band are fast becoming one of the country’s most talked about jazz groups. Led by composer and conductor Ben Cottrell, its 14 members are drawn from some of the most exciting and in demand young musicians active in the UK today, all of whom met and began playing together whilst students in Manchester.

Praise for Robert Glasper:

“Glasper set the scene with moody swirls and bits of tomfoolery – put-ons, put downs and in-jokes – and then launched a long, uninhibited encore with two-handed dazzle and bags of invention.” **** Financial Times Read the full article

“This rare artist can straddle idiomatic gaps, and doesn’t compromise to do it.” The Guardian

“Robert Glasper is about to turn jazz and hip-hop on their heads…‘Black Radio’ is proof that you can still appeal to a mass audience without having to sacrifice ivention, intelligence or soul” Time Out

A new full length touring show from the acclaimed star of BBC2’s Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle.

What can a sexless middle aged married man, whose life now consists mainly of watching Scooby Doo cartoons with a four year old boy, possibly find to write comedy about? Formerly stand-up’s youthful iconoclast, Lee now gawps blankly at News 24 as Britain burns down around him, and blinks weirdly at the vast wayside retail outlets during endless journeys to and from increasingly indistinct provincial theatres. Once he lived on the pleasure planet. Now he is trapped in Carpet Remnant World. And so are you.

“The funniest thing on television” The Guardian

“Thrilling” Metro *****

“Fascinating, funny stuff” The Times ****

“Heralds a new brand of political stand-up” The Guardian ****

“Lee’s glittering rants blend cynicism, vanity and unbearable snobbery.” Guy Stagg, Daily Telegraph

Some comedians use strong language and express controversial opinions. Please come prepared.

The brilliant and talented Maria Anna ‘Nannerl’ Mozart (Féret) is a musical prodigy in her own right. But the fifteen-year-old is forced to step aside for the main attraction that is her brother Wolfgang Amadeus (Moreau) as their strict but loving father (Barbé) tours his talented offspring in front of the royal court of pre-French Revolution Europe.

Approaching marriageable age, her father forbids her to play or compose. As her heart and mind beg her to create, she battles the society and conventions around her. Can a friendship with the son and daughter of Louis XV offer her an alternative?

Starring two of his daughters, the film is both written and directed by Rene Féret, who paints a speculative and intimate portrait of a family bound by genius, love and ambition.

“A treat for classical musical lovers and cinephiles alike.” Variety

On the eve of World War I, Zurich and Vienna are the setting for a dark tale of sexual and intellectual discovery. Drawn from true-life events, A Dangerous Method explores the turbulent relationships between fledgling psychiatrist Carl Jung, his mentor Sigmund Freud and Sabina Spielrein, the beautiful but disturbed young woman who comes between them. Starring Michael Fassbender, Keira Knightley and Golden Globe Best Supporting Actor nominee Viggo Mortensen.

Please note that cinema prices are now inclusive of booking fee

Love Film? Join Warwick Arts Centre’s new Film Membership and take advantage of discounts, priority mailings and a host of other fantastic benefits. Find out more. To buy online, click here

The gallery will open early and visitors are invited to a 30 minute introduction to the exhibition and to the work of Douglas Gordon.

The tours are free, but please reserve your place by calling the Box Office.

Take images and text from throw-away materials such as newspapers, magazines and packaging to create a larger than life collage.

Age: 6+

Tickets available in advance or on the day from Box Office on 024 7652 4524. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

For further details phone the Mead Gallery assistants on 024 7652 2589 (12noon – 9pm, Mon – Sat).

The Midland Voice Orchestra, with their Musical Director Barry Todd, present an evening of well-known and popular music. If you like harmony, then let the 200-strong choir wow you with their rendition of songs such as Killing Me Softly, Moon River, Copacabana, My Fair Lady, Somewhere Over The Rainbow, Don’t Go Breaking My Heart and Bright Eyes.

This is the choir’s sixth concert in the Butterworth Hall with the wonderful Midland Voice Orchestra providing the accompaniment. An enjoyable evening for all music lovers.

Overthrown your corrupt government and wondering what to do next? Love democracy (in theory) but prefer power, golden statues and tons of sweet loot? Channel 4 presenter and author Tim Clare can help. Armed with generic Frazzles, totally scientific diagrams and a water pistol, he explains how Willy Wonka inspired the Jonestown Massacre, and celebrates history’s most inspirational women in a no holds barred battle rap royale.

Tim Clare is the author of We Can’t All Be Astronauts, winner of Best Biography/Memoir at the East Anglian Book Awards and has regularly performed his work on BBC2, Channel 4 and BBC Radio.

“Sublime…has the audience hooting in recognition.” The Guardian

“Without question, one of the most enjoyable hours I have ever spent.’ ***** ThreeWeeks

Age: 5+

Frank’s peaceful routine on the allotment is turned upside down by the arrival of the lively Isabella and her chickens on the neighbouring plot. Frank likes order, peace and quiet and growing vegetables, whilst Isabella likes excitement, fun and colourful flowers. Through the changing seasons, with patience and just a sprinkling of understanding, the seeds of friendship manage to grow side by side with the potatoes and the primroses.

Underscored with original music, Sunflowers & Sheds will take you on an enchanting journey to warm the heart and capture the imagination. M6 Theatre Company (One Little Word) is one of Britain’s leading theatre companies specialising in creating inspiring, sensitive and visual productions for young audiences.

“A spellbinding tale of friendship and growth” The Stage

“Crammed with magical moments, truly captivating design, and emotional territory so delicately and convincingly explored.” The Herald Scotland

Running time: 50 mins

Competition time!

To accompany the summer tour of Sunflowers and Sheds, M6 Theatre Company are giving one lucky person the chance to win a huge goody bag filled with children’s gardening items.

All you need to do is take a look at our preview trailer for Sunflowers and Sheds here (or click the ‘trailer’ tab above) and answer the following question:

What plot number has Isabella been given?

Email your answer plus how you found out about the competition with the subject ‘Sunflowers’ to Maria by 5pm on Fri 22 Jun. The winner will be picked at random and informed by email. Good Luck!

Thirty years since Bob Marley’s death comes an extraordinary new biopic by Oscar-winning Scottish director Kevin Macdonald (The Last King of Scotland, Touching the Void), and the first account authorised by Marley’s own family.

The film pieces together not just Marley the musician but Marley the man, in a fascinating account of his life, his legacy, and his global impact in fighting oppression and overcoming poverty.

Duane Eddy, the “King of Twang”, has been strumming across America and the world since 1958. During his illustrious career he has notched up numerous UK Top Ten hits, and collaborated with artists such as Paul McCartney, Ry Cooder and Hans Zimmer. In 2011, 25 years after his last record, Duane Eddy released his new album Road Trip to widespread critical acclaim. Produced by former Pulp guitarist and long time fan Richard Hawley, the album finds Duane Eddy as mesmerising a performer as ever, and was voted one of the best albums of 2011 by Mojo magazine.

“Eddy plays guitar the way Hemingway writes. These tunes sound ageless…” 4/5 Uncut

Support comes from Nell Bryden.

In a riveting portrait of post-war Germany, documentary filmmaker Andres Veiel’s feature debut balances the personal and the political in a true story set against the backdrop of the Baader-Meinhof Gang.

In the early 60s, Bernward (Diehl) and fellow university student Gudrun (a stunning performance from Lauzemis) begin a passionate love affair in the stifling atmosphere of provincial West Germany. Both haunted by their fathers’ involvement in the Nazi regime, they set out to challenge the establishment and join forces with leftist writers and political activists. As Bernward risks his sanity to write a world-changing novel, an increasingly radicalized Gudrun becomes involved with Andreas Baader, leader of the notorious Red Army Faction.

“Esteemed members of the academy! You have done me the great honour of inviting me to give you an account of my former life as an ape.”

Brutally imprisoned and desperate to escape, the ape-man reveals his rise through the ranks of the beasts to become a master of the ‘civilised world’ – a walking, talking, spitting, smoking, hard-drinking man of the stage.

A witty, heart-rending and ironic tale of forced assimilation into an alien culture, Kafka’s Monkey places a startling mirror in front of a modern day audience.

The ape is played by the Olivier Award winner and Complicite founding member Kathryn Hunter (Peter Brook’s Fragments, National Theatre’s The Visit, Mike Leigh’s All or Nothing, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix).

After the performance on the 30 May there will be a special post-show discussion on the theme of human attitudes towards animals. Presented by the Being Human: Medicine and the Human Sciences’ research network (IAS) and funded by the University of Warwick’s Institute of Advanced Studies, it will feature Kathryn Hunter and a panel of academics.

Deep in a Latin American prison, Luis Alberto Molina, a homosexual window dresser, is serving an eight-year sentence for corrupting a minor. To escape the harsh realities of his imprisonment, Molina fantasises of a world based on movies. Molina’s refusal to confront reality is suddenly challenged when Valentin, a revolutionary with a focus on the real world, is thrown into the same cell. As the prison walls close in on their hopes, the two must learn to co-exist alongside one another.

Through every one of Molina’s fantasy movies, there is one actress who is ever present; Aurora. Despite Molina’s admiration for her, there is one role that terrifies him; The Spider Woman, who kills with her kiss, and who Molina believes he sees, stalking the prison.

Age: 14+

This newly restored all-time classic of 1930s French cinema remains drenched in atmosphere and remarkably beautiful. Both an unsettling thriller and a moving love story, it’s made all the more striking by a haunting score by Maurice Jaubert.

Known for its poetic realism, the film sees Jean (Gabin), a military deserter, arrive in a smoky French port hoping to escape on a boat to Venezuela. But his plans run aground when he falls for Nelly (Morgan), on the run from her intimidating guardian. Dreaming of a better life, the protagonists are enveloped by the fog and shadows of Le Havre.

I will not sleep with him tonight,

I will not sleep with him tonight,

I will not sleep with him tonight.

I will not stare at her tits,

I will not stare at her tits,

I will not stare at her tits.

A new play about objectification, gratification and fornication, when you don’t know how to behave.

Triggered@Warwick is a brand new commissioning and artist development programme supporting selected artists with: time to develop creative ideas; physical space to work in; an audience to reflect on the work; dramaturgical and producing support and a cash commissioning fee. See tomorrow’s theatre today!

As with all Triggered@Warwick events, China Plate will be on hand to host an exchange following the performance.

Jean-Marc Vallee (C.R.A.Z.Y, The Young Victoria) directs a drama which cuts between stories of love and responsibility separated by four decades.

In present day Montreal, Antoine (Parent) is a successful club DJ living with his two children and beautiful girlfriend (Brochu). He appears to have it all and yet can’t get over his ex-wife (Florent), the mother of his children. In Paris in 1969, Jacqueline (Paradis) is a single mother raising a young son with Down’s Syndrome. Knowing that his life will be short, she is determined to do whatever she can for him during the time he has.

Seemingly unrelated at first, Jacqueline and Antoine’s stories are revealed to be connected in profound and mysterious ways.

After a thirteen-year hiatus, Whit Stillman (Barcelona, Metropolitan) returns with an off-beat and incredibly witty look into the psyche of privileged American youth.

Beautiful and dynamic Violet (Gerwig) and her friends set out to change the masculine environment of their East Coast university campus and rescue their fellow students from depression, grunge and low standards. But the girls’ friendship and sanity comes under threat when their romantic liaisons with the men on campus don’t conform to their expectations.

In true Stillman style, expect smart dialogue, quirky characters and a few dance numbers.

“Whit Stillman’s whimsical campus comedy is an utter delight.” Variety

A musical version of Dickens’ The Pickwick Papers, made into a film in 1969 following the phenomenal success of the stage version first in Chichester and then the West End. The show gave Harry Secombe, as Pickwick, his best remembered hit song, If I Ruled The World.

A perfect introduction to the work of Dickens.

Marcel Lucont – Gallic Symbol

The international raconteur, flâneur and bon-viveur previews his brand new show: Gallic Symbol. Expect the usual excellent blend of wry observations, bawdy chansons world-class sex poetry and 50 actual ways to leave your lover.

Don’t miss your chance to see the star of Melbourne Comedy Festival, the New Zealand Comedy Carnival Tour and Edinburgh Festival.

‘Fresh, accessible and hilarious’ The Guardian

‘A pitch-perfect performance… Superb stuff’ **** Time Out

Pete Firman

The UK’s leading comedic conjuror and star of BBC1’s Magicians previews brand new material for his forthcoming festival show and national tour. Expect amazing feats that defy logic, a fast and furious delivery of gags and astounding tricks that will leave you dumbfounded for days!

“The best magic tricks in the Universe” The Independent

“Funnier than most comedians and more magical than Dumbledore on a good day. A complete star” Time Out

The directorial debut by Dexter Fletcher (Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Band of Brothers) telling the funny, bittersweet and dramatic story of a father and his two sons in London’s East End.

Out on parole after 8 years inside, Bill Hayward returns home to find his now 11 and 15 year old sons abandoned by their mother and fending for themselves. Unwilling to play Dad, an uncaring Bill is determined to move on and keep himself out of prison. But when his younger son Jimmy gets involved with the local gangsters, Bill is forced to question what sort of father he wants to be.

“Charlie Creed-Miles rips up the screen in Dexter Fletcher’s gritty comedy-drama… this is his finest hour.” The Guardian

“Beautifully written and superbly directed…there’s unlikely to be a more entertaining British film this year.” Daily Mail

Hanshiro, a poverty-stricken samurai discovers the fate of his ronin son-in-law and sets in motion a tense showdown of vengeance against the house of a feudal lord.

Far less bloodthirsty and action packed than you might expect from Takashi Miike’s earlier work (13 Assassins), the story here carefully weaves back and forth through flashbacks to reveal Hanshiro’s search for compassion and humanity in a society bound by duty and honour.

In conversation with Alonso Cueto, Efrain Kristal and Maria Luddy.

Mario Vargas Llosa is one of the world’s greatest contemporary novelists, a playwright of distinction and a leading public intellectual. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2010.

He will be discussing his latest novel, The Dream of the Celt which deals with key moments in the life of the Anglo-Irish diplomat turned Irish nationalist, Roger Casement – his denunciation of human rights abuses in the Congo and in the Peruvian Amazon, participation in the Easter Rising and his arrest, prosecution, and conviction for treason by the British in 1916.

Llosa will also consider his work in a broader context by exploring issues raised in The Cambridge Companion to Mario Vargas Llosa, edited by Efrain Kristal and John King.

The event will be chaired by John King and followed by a book signing.

Part of the University of Warwick Distinguished Lecture Series.

This event is supported by the Institute of Advanced Studies, University of Warwick

Twice a year, Rapid Eye Movement presents the best of regional short films as they should be seen – on the big screen in front of an audience. The programme may include drama, animation, documentary and music video.

If you would like to submit a film for consideration, it should be no longer than 15mins and on DVD, DigiBeta or 35mm. Please send it to John Gore, Film Programmer, Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL by Fri 1 Jun 2012 with your contact details.

Adapted from Ayub Khan-Din’s (East is East) critically acclaimed West End and Broadway production, Rafta Rafta, this entertaining family drama plays out in an immigrant Indian community in Bolton.

For Atul (Ritchie, White Heat) and his young bride Vina (Karan, The Darjeeling Limited) married life is proving far from straightforward. Anxious to consummate their marriage, their family keeps getting in the way. But can they get it together and remember why their love matters before it’s too late?

Directed by Nigel Cole (Calendar Girls, Made in Dagenham), this closely observed and emotionally truthful depiction of family life is both heart-warming and tender.

It’s been said that Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid were killed in a standoff with the Bolivian military in 1908. In Blackthorn, Cassidy (Shepard) survived and is quietly living out his years under the name James Blackthorn in a secluded Bolivian village.

Tired of his long exile and hoping to see his family again before he dies, Cassidy sets out on the long journey home. But when an unexpected encounter with an ambitious young criminal (Noriega) derails his plans, he is thrust into one last adventure.

“An elegiac, beautifully shot western.” NY Post

“Sam Shepard delivers a beautifully understated performance.” Hollywood Reporter

Star and co-creator of BBC Four’s comedy quiz show We Need Answers, award-winning comedian Alex Horne has established a reputation among critics, comics and audiences as a thoughtful and original stand-up, writer and solo performer.

Seven Years In The Bathroom is the ultimate stat-based fun-packed thought-provoking experimental-and-sometimes-stupid hour-long comedy show in which Alex aims to recreate your entire life in one hour. That’s right, he’ll do everything you’ll ever do but in sixty minutes. So in an average lifetime you’ll spend two years shopping, two weeks kissing and eighteen months looking for lost things. You’ll also spend quite a while eating, queuing, crying and googling yourself. Alex is going to squeeze all those things into one show and it’ll be tremendous. And very funny. So come and laugh at your life.

“Beautifully structured, endearingly honest… joyous” The Scotsman.

“A beguiling blend of the smart and the stupid…a real delight” Sunday Times

www.alexhorne.com

A film portrait of Gregory Bateson, the celebrated anthropologist, philosopher, author, naturalist, systems theorist and filmmaker, produced and directed by his daughter, Nora Bateson.

From a richly personal perspective, the film includes footage from Bateson’s own films shot in 1930s Bali and New Guinea, along with photographs, filmed lectures and contemporary interviews, to build up a picture of the man and his influence. Bateson believed that ‘the major problems in the world are the result of the difference between the way nature works and the way people think.’ Ultimately the film conveys his challenge to change the way we think and to perceive the world in
a different way.

“For me, watching Nora Bateman’s film was overwhelming.” Resurgence Magazine

A powerful and richly layered Spanish drama, with a screenplay by long-time collaborator of Ken Loach, Paul Laverty (The Wind that Shakes the Barley, Look For Eric), and an award-winning original score by Alberto Iglesias.

Mexican director Sebastián (García Bernal) and executive producer Costa (Tosar) travel to Bolivia to shoot a film depicting Christopher Columbus’ first voyage to the New World. Local man Daniel is cast in a lead role, with the crew unaware that he is the leader of protests against plans to privatise the water supply, which soon envelop them. Plunged into moral conflict, Sebastián begins to doubt whether the film will ever be completed.

“At a time when the poor of the world seem to be rising up, I found myself deeply moved and completely enthralled by this film.” Michael Moore

What would you do if you were asked to become a father in an email? If your Dad thought it was dance school that turned you gay? If you’d never had the chance to see the man behind the mask? A playful and moving search through diaries, bibles, memories and dreams, an imaginative leap across oceans and decades led by three performers whose far-away fathers might just make an appearance.

Following the development of this beautiful piece at First Bite and Bite Size Festivals, we’re joining forces with The Centre for the History of Medicine to bring you a first chance to see the full length version of Our Fathers.

Following each performance, historical advisor Dr Laura King from Warwick Centre for the History of Medicine will host a panel discussion looking at fatherhood in the past and present.

Panel 1 – Tue 12 June: Father Figures Through Time
How perceptions of fatherhood have changed through the 19th and 20th centuries, the persistence of stereotypes and the transmission of ideas through family generations.

Panel 2 – Wed 13 June: Thoroughly Modern Dads?
How fathers interact with their children today, through pregnancy, childbirth and infancy; the rise of stay-at-home dads; gay parenting; and new birth technologies.

For full information see website

Commissioned by China Plate, mac, Warwick Arts Centre and Warwick Centre for The History of Medicine.

Supported by the Wellcome Trust.

Due to overwhelming public demand, we have added two more chances to see this highly acclaimed production. See Frankenstein on Thu 12 and Thu 26 July. Book now

Best of British Theatre broadcast live to screens around the world

Thu 14 Jun: Benedict Cumberbatch (Creature), Jonny Lee Miller (Victor)

Thu 28 Jun: Jonny Lee Miller (Creature), Benedict Cumberbatch (Victor)

Another chance to see an Encore Screening of this visionary production from the National Theatre, directed by Oscar-winner Danny Boyle.

Childlike in his innocence but grotesque in form, Frankenstein’s bewildered creature is cast out into a hostile universe by his horror-struck maker. Meeting with cruelty wherever he goes, the friendless being, increasingly desperate and vengeful, determines to track down his creator and strike a terrifying deal.

Urgent concerns of scientific responsibility, parental neglect, cognitive development and the nature of good and evil are embedded within this thrilling and deeply disturbing classic gothic tale.

“A thrill…the most viscerally exciting and stunning show in town.” **** The Daily Telegraph

“One of the events of the year…featuring the magnetic pairing of Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller” **** The Observer

Running time: 2 hours 30 mins (no interval)

Ken Loach returns with long-time collaborator and writer Paul Laverty for this Glasgow-based bittersweet comedy.

Following the birth of his son and a close brush with the law, Robbie (Brannigan) finds a new determination to turn his life around. Whilst serving a community service order he meets Rhino, Albert and Mo and in an unorthodox move, the group attempt to start up their own whisky distillery and forge a brighter future for themselves.

As sports world bigwigs prepare to descend for London 2012 and bureaucratic busybodies try to figure out how best to exploit the national fervour, Ridiculusmus stages its very own satirical take on it all.

Picking over football systems, political wrangling and changing room banter, Total Football tackles the big questions of life, immortality, happiness and why England always lose.

From the controversial attempt to create a united UK football team for the 2012 games to one man’s attempts to reproduce when he can’t even explain the offside rule, Ridiculusmus has patched up its metatarsals to examine the melting pot of what it means to be British today. A wickedly clever, mischievously sharp, and acutely observed meditation on our times.

“You don’t need to give a fig about football to enjoy this inventive, hectic 70 minute piece…this slice of the absurd has a real lightness of touch” The Evening Standard

Running time: 60 mins (no interval)

Co-commissioned by Barbican BITE 11 London in association with Belfast Festival at Queens, National Theatre of Wales and National Theatre of Scotland.

This performance of Total Football is being staged as part of the National Rural Touring Forum Showcase 2012 – New Directions.

This staging of Ridiculusmus’ hit show has been re-worked for the specialist field of rural touring and coincides with the launch of ‘Ridiculusmus Unplugged’ touring programme. You’ll still see the great show on stage but in an ‘unplugged’ form re-imagined to be light enough on its feet to work in a wide variety of venues from our main theatre stage to a village hall!

For more information about the NRTF and the showcase check out their website

Opening this year’s Cannes Film Festival, with an original screenplay co-written with Roman Coppola, Wes Anderson (The Royal Tenenbaums, The Darjeeling Limited) returns with a tale of small-town characters, brought brilliantly to life with dry humour and sensibility.

On an island off the coast of New England in the summer of 1965, 12 year-old Sam abandons his scout troupe to run away with his girlfriend Suzy. With the rest of the scout troupe, the police sheriff and parents hot on their heels, and a violent storm brewing off-shore, this peaceful island community is about to be turned upside down.

Wes Anderson regulars Bill Murray and Jason Schwartzman join forces with Tilda Swinton, Bruce Willis and Frances McDormand in this eagerly awaited new film.

Direct from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2011.

Following on from his sellout national tour of ‘Uncaged Monkeys’, with Professor Brian Cox, and as co-presenter of BBC Radio 4’s Sony Gold Award winning series ‘The Infinite Monkey Cage’, Robin continues his comic exploration of the human condition in his new show.

Robin asks can you be happy and rational at the same time. Join him in a world of Schrodinger cats, multiverses and evolutionary conundrums. Spend an entertaining evening in Robin’s company as he orienteers through the craggy landscape of evolution whilst plumbing the depths of his own murky consciousness, all without the aid of a safety net.

Running Time: 90 minutes + interval

Age: 16+

As part of his dance company New Adventures’ 25th anniversary celebrations, Britain’s favourite choreographer Matthew Bourne (Swan Lake, Edward Scissorhands, Nutcracker!) presents a triple bill of acclaimed early works that launched his career.

Spitfire was Bourne’s first hit in 1988 and hilariously places the most famous 19th Century Ballet showstopper in the world of men’s underwear advertising.

Town and Country from 1991 gave Bourne and his company their first Olivier nomination. Remembered as the piece that crystallized the Bourne style; gloriously witty and ironic, but also strangely moving and heartfelt. It explores notions of national character from a bygone era through the evocative music of Edward Elgar and Noël Coward amongst others.

The Infernal Galop was inspired by icons of France in the 30s and 40s. This is France as seen by the uptight English imagination, with all the traditional clichés joyously paraded for our entertainment and climaxing in Offenbach’s inevitable Can-Can!

“Matthew Bourne has utterly changed the landscape of dance forever.” The Daily Telegraph

“Our coolest choreographer.” The Sunday Times

Please note that the recommended age guidance for this show is 12+

Running time: 2 hours (two intervals)

“There are no happy endings in real life.”

A writer in a totalitarian state is interrogated about the gruesome content of his short stories and their similarities to a series of child murders that are happening in his town.

The Pillowman is a hypnotically tragicomic play about freedom of expression, the power of storytelling and dark childhood experience.

Merging Practical Aesthetics with a live cello score and minimalistic set design, this production challenges the concept of ‘meaningful’ art, and blurs the lines of reality.

Age: 16+

“Sometimes you don’t even know what you’ve been craving until the real thing comes along.” New York Times on The Pillowman

Ridley Scott, director of Alien and Blade Runner, returns to the genre he helped define. In an original science fiction epic, a team of explorers discover a star map containing clues to the origins of mankind, leading them on a thrilling journey to the darkest corners of the universe.

Conceived as a prequel to Alien, this is a classic 21st century sci-fi flick, in which the crew must face a threat to humanity’s very existence. Michael Fassbender and Charlize Theron star.

The Duplass brothers (The Puffy Chair, Baghead) shift into more mainstream territory with this comedy hit from the Toronto Film Festival, an insightful and thought-provoking drama of family relationships.

Thirty-something Jeff (Segel) still lives in his parents’ basement as he struggles to survive in the real world. Convinced that his destiny will be revealed to him by signs from the universe, an everyday errand to buy wood glue leads him to cross paths with his family in the strangest of locations and circumstances. As his brother (Helms) faces up to a failing marriage, it seems that Jeff may discover the meaning of his life after all.

“Sly and big-hearted, funny and moving.” Vanity Fair

Experiment with inks and paints to represent the magical outlines from reflections then turn the results into sculptures. Be prepared to surprise yourself with the results.

Age: 6+

Tickets available in advance or on the day from Box Office on 024 7652 4524. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

For further details phone the Mead Gallery assistants on 024 7652 2589 (12noon – 9pm, Mon – Sat).

An animated crime mystery which unfurls on the rooftops of Paris. Dino is a pet cat who lives a double life. By day he’s at home with police commissioner Jeanne and her daughter Zoe; by night he sneaks out of the window to work with Nico, a cat burglar with a big heart. But when Zoe decides to follow Dino on his nocturnal adventures, the two worlds collide.

The programme will also include the classics The Two Mouseketeers with Tom and Jerry and Kit for Cat with Sylvester and Elmer Fudd.

The enormously popular award-winning television adventurer Steve Backshall talks about his expeditions, encounters with wild wonders, the mysteries of the natural world and his new fiction novel Tiger Wars.

The event will feature film clips of the animals that have inspired him and there will be an opportunity for audience Q&As.

“Natural history’s next big star … the next David Attenborough” Sunday Express

This event will be an illustrated talk and will not feature any live animals on stage. Best suited for adults and families with children aged 8 years and older.

Visit Steve Backshall’s website

Virtuosic Clarinettist Kate Meadows will charm us all with her dazzling playing of the Weber Concerto. Will Todd’s Mass in Blue is an upbeat setting of the Latin Mass, a brilliant blend of driving jazz grooves and clear, strong choral writing. Schostakovich Symphony No. 5, commonly subtitled `A Soviet artist’s reply to just criticism’ is a great and powerful classic.

Join us for an afternoon of fabulous music!

Ten-year-old Laure (Héran) moves with her parents and sister to a new neighbourhood outside Paris. Mistaken for a boy, she is introduced to the local gang as ‘Michael’ and plays along with the misunderstanding.

Finding resourceful ways to hide her true self, Laure takes advantage of her new identity, as if the end of the summer would never reveal her unsettling secret. A story about relationships between children and that between one’s heart and body.

“A remarkable film… the script is flawless in its execution and the performance by Zoe Héran screams greatness.” Film Fracture

Capturing moving images is now commonplace with mobiles and pocket cameras, but before the digital age it wasn’t so easy. Small format movie cameras were the liberating technology of the mid 20th century, giving ordinary people the chance to capture everyday events.

Cipher (Theo Travis and Dave Sturt) have collaborated with visual artist Anthony Hatton to produce a thought-provoking and engaging cinematic and live music experience using previously unseen archive footage from the Media Archive of Central England, including local images of the Midlands from the 1930s to 1970s.

The man behind Are You Dave Gorman? and Googlewhack Adventure returns with a brand new show. Always one of comedy’s most innovative thinkers this genre stretching performer is back… and for this brand new show he’s formed a double act… with a projector screen. And they’d like to show you their powerpoint presentation. Cast your powerpoint prejudice* aside, it’s not just for business meetings.

“Gorman has seen his stock rise to such an extent that he’s poised, as never before, to make the leap from cult figure to mainstream phenomenon.” – Telegraph

“intelligent, playful, quirky, obsessive and original” Chortle

*Some bullet points will be used

The support act for this show will be Jay Foreman

PLEASE NOTE: This will be a standing gig

Noke Lick Masheen is the amorphous ‘masheen’ that combines fresh original grooves with old favourites from the musical shelf to produce the infectiously funky, upbeat live band that leaves nothing but dancing feet and feelgood smiles in its wake.

Hailing from Leamington Spa in the midlands, this six-piece funk and soul band have gained a reputation for their high-energy and up-beat live shows. With a varied repertoire that brings together styles ranging from dub, reggae and breakbeat all the way through to gypsy jazz and straight-ahead funk, their unique blend of sounds has heads nodding and feet tapping within minutes of them taking the stage.

Following the release of their debut EP in November 2011, Noke have been performing up and down the country supporting the likes of Yes Sir Boss!!! and Submotion Orchestra.

Hugh Masekela has come to be known as a living legend in the half-century since he first picked up a trumpet, and luckily for us he shows no sign of putting it down yet. His voice has long spoken out in his country’s struggle for civil rights, whilst his soaring, joyful trumpet sound brims with warmth and bristles with elements of township jazz, hip-hop and funk. Universally considered one of the world’s all-time greatest horn players.

Ayanna was the first non-American to win the legendary Amateur Night Live at the Harlem Apollo, whose beguiling vocals skip and swing over intimate, honey-sweet cello.

“(Masekela is) a musician of phenomenal grace and power, still blessed with a voice that can strip the leaves from the trees.” The Independent

“Ayanna has to be heard to be believed” Time Out

An inspiring and extraordinary biopic of the American singer, songwriter and actor Harry Belafonte, unearthing his significant contribution to and leadership in the civil rights movement.

Told from Belafonte’s viewpoint, the film charts his life from early years of poverty in Harlem and Jamaica, through his rise from the jazz and folk clubs of Greenwich Village to eventual superstardom. The film shows his true passion for social change; marching with Martin Luther King Jr. in the civil rights era, working against apartheid in South Africa and his current programs to help inner-city youth.

“It isn’t just the story of a man, but the story of a country and a century.” Variety

“Inspirational.” Los Angeles Times

Closing last year’s Cannes Film Festival and starring French actress Catherine Deneuve and (her real-life daughter) Chiara Mastroianni, this witty musical from writer/director Christophe Honoré takes us from Paris in the sixties to 21st century London.

Following a mother and daughter’s twin adventures in love, as the years go by, both discover that carefree living becomes increasingly difficult.

Soloists:

Alison Balsom, trumpet
Nicola Benedetti, violin
Natalie Clein, cello
Lesley Garrett, soprano

Take four of the most dazzling stars on the UK classical music scene, combine them with some of Britain’s best-loved tunes, and you’ve got a musical party on your hands. And as the nation comes together to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, that’s exactly what we’ve done!

Alison Balsom is the woman who made Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto a popular classic: no-one makes it sparkle more brightly. Nicola Benedetti has got to be the UK’s favourite violinist – and Vaughan Williams’ serene The Lark Ascending regularly tops the Classic FM Hall of Fame. Cellist Natalie Clein, meanwhile, simply drenches everything she plays in soul, and Saint-Saëns’ gloriously tuneful First Cello Concerto could have been written for her.

And – because you can’t have a gala without a splash of opera! – we also welcome the incomparable Lesley Garrett, who’ll be bringing all her trademark glamour and fun to some of your very favourite operatic arias. Throw in Ravel’s zingy Tzigane, Piazzolla’s sizzling Libertango and a sprinkling of all-time orchestral favourites, and it all adds up to a right royal celebration of a concert. So go on, spoil yourself – and crack out the musical champagne!

Programme for the evening

Mozart: Cosi fan Tutte: Overture
Mozart: Exsultate Jubilate: Part 1 Allegro
Haydn: Trumpet Concerto
Bizet: Habanera & Beat out that Rhythm
Ravel: Tzigane

Interval

Handel: Arrival of the Queen of Sheba
Saint-Saens: Cello Concerto No.1
A North Country Lass (traditional)
The Bold Grenadier (traditional)
The Collier Lad (traditional)
Vaughan Williams: Lark Ascending
Lehar: Gypsy Fiddles
Piazzolla: Libertango

Enjoy 10% discount off ice creams and sorbets when you pre-order when purchasing your ticket from Box Office or online. Add an ice cream to your basket now or mention to our Box Office when you call to book your ticket. Find out more here

Taking its title from the song by Leonard Cohen, A Thousand Kisses Deep, tells the story of Mia (Whittaker), a young woman whose destructive past relationship with a charming but troubled musician Ludwig (Scott), leads her to travel back in time in an attempt to change the present.

Both thriller and dark romance, the film features a standout performance by Dougray Scott (My Week with Marilyn) at its heart. Scott learned to play the trumpet for the role and he brings a raw passion to the disturbed musical soul of Ludwig and the dark impact he has on the lives around him.

In a sequel to 2 Days in Paris, Marion (Delpy) has now broken up with Jack and lives in New York with their child. When her family from Paris unceremoniously descends upon her for a visit, she is unaware that the different cultural backgrounds held by new American boyfriend Mingus (Rock), her eccentric father (played by Delpy’s real-life father), oversexed sister Rose and outrageous boyfriend, will make for such an explosive mix.

In a delightfully witty romp, cultural differences are heightened to comedic effect as Marion’s new relationship is tested to the limit.

Due to overwhelming public demand, we bring you another chance to see Encore Screenings of this visionary production from the National Theatre, directed by Oscar-winner Danny Boyle.

Thu 12 July: Benedict Cumberbatch (Creature), Jonny Lee Miller (Victor)

Thu 26 July: Jonny Lee Miller (Creature), Benedict Cumberbatch (Victor)

Best of British Theatre broadcast live to screens around the world

Childlike in his innocence but grotesque in form, Frankenstein’s bewildered creature is cast out into a hostile universe by his horror-struck maker. Meeting with cruelty wherever he goes, the friendless being, increasingly desperate and vengeful, determines to track down his creator and strike a terrifying deal.

Urgent concerns of scientific responsibility, parental neglect, cognitive development and the nature of good and evil are embedded within this thrilling and deeply disturbing classic gothic tale.

“A thrill…the most viscerally exciting and stunning show in town.” **** The Daily Telegraph

“One of the events of the year…featuring the magnetic pairing of Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller” **** The Observer

Running time: 2 hours 30 mins (no interval)

The silent show that is creating a lot of talk. Mime with noise, stand-up with no talking, drama with no acting. You’ll laugh, you’ll scream and ultimately you’ll end up like The Boy – lost for words.

“The Boy With Tape on His Face is utterly spectacular! Endlessly inventive, hysterically funny. Fight for a ticket.” ***** Time Out

“Wills is the last word in silent comedy.” **** The Guardian

“It’s not often you can say you really didn’t want a show to end.” **** The Scotsman

Ages: 12-15

Dom and Jon are back to set another tough film making challenge. Are you ready to make a five minute film with a five person crew in five days? You’ll start with that first glimpse of an idea and then your film will be devised, storyboarded, scripted, shot, edited, soundtracked, mixed and mastered – finishing with your walk down the red carpet at the world premiere to the cheers of friends and family.

Coventry film-makers Dom and Jon are highly experienced in getting the most creative results from young film crews. It’ll be hard work but a good time is guaranteed.

Join us for the world premiere of the young film-makers’s work on the afternoon of Fri 3 Aug. Tickets are FREE but must be reserved via the Box Office on 024 7652 4524.

Legendary rock drummer Ginger Baker, renowned for his work with Cream and Blind Faith, is returning to the UK for a jazz fusion tour. Teaming up with tenor saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis, bassist Alec Dankworth, and African percussionist Abass Dodoo, the quartet will be performing as ‘Ginger Baker’s Jazz Confusion’.

Ginger Baker’s recognition as a drummer began during the Graham Bond Organisation in the early sixties. The band toured with The Who, The Troggs, The Moody Blues and Chuck Berry, attracting press interest for their outrageous behaviour and riotous fun. In 1964 Baker was considered “one of Britain’s great drummers” by Melody Maker magazine. While Baker was impressing music journalists, he was also attracting attention from other musicians, one of them being Eric Clapton. The two met, jammed, saw one another play in their then- current bands, added bass player Jack Bruce and formed Cream.

And the rest is musical history. Don’t miss your chance to catch one of the greatest drummers of all time performing alongside some world-class musicians, bringing international rhythmns to Coventry audiences.

Mark Watson was a victim of identity theft. Someone successfully posed as him and took all his money. It made him think about the power of the Internet, the nature of identity, the way to stop crime forever and live in a better world, and some other smaller matters. He has now finished thinking about these things and is ready to present his findings, laced with a barrage of new jokes, stories, observations and anecdotes, in his new show.

May contain optional audience interaction, games, improvisation and unaggressive banter.

If you’re coming, please email markwatsonspreview2012@gmail.com for pre-show briefing.

The tour revisits some of Mark’s favourite venues, some brand new territory, and a couple of places which he’s visiting as a dare.

“A kind of unstoppable funny superhero” The Sunday Times

“A huge comic presence” The Times

Some comedians express controversial opinions and use strong language. Please come prepared.

Wanderlust is the brand new show from one of the world’s most popular and travelled comedians. Fresh from sell-out tours across the world, Danny Bhoy comes to Warwick Arts Centre with a show guaranteed to leave you with a smile on your face and wanderlust in your heart.

‘Subtle. Intelligent. Perceptive. And very, very funny.’ The Scotsman

‘Like a stand up equivalent of Bill Bryson. Charming and effortlessly funny.’ The Herald

Best International Act Time Out Sydney 2011

Some comedians express controversial opinions and use strong language. Please come prepared.

Beamed direct from the National Theatre in London, The Last of the Haussmans is the latest in our NT Live Series, starring Julie Walters, Rory Kinnear amnd Helen McCrory.

Anarchic, feisty but growing old, high society drop-out Judy Haussman (Walters) remains connected to the free-spiritedness of the 1960s while holding court in her dilapidated Art Deco house on the Devon coast. After an operation, she’s joined by wayward offspring Nick (Kinnear) and Libby (McCrory), sharp-eyed granddaughter Summer, local doctor Peter, and Daniel, a troubled teenager who makes use of the family’s crumbling swimming pool. Together they share a few sweltering months in this chaotic world of all-day drinking, infatuations, long-held resentments, free love and failure.

Julie Walters is one of Britain’s best-loved and most versatile actors. Returning to the stage for the first time in over a decade, Walters made her name starring in Willy Russell’s Educating Rita, for which she won a BAFTA and a Golden Globe.

Rory Kinnear is this generation’s most prolific stage actor, recently winning the Evening Standard Best Actor award for his critically-acclaimed performance in Hamlet at the National Theatre.

Helen McCrory is known for her impressive character performances, most notably as Cherie Blair in The Queen and Narcissa Malfoy in Harry Potter. On stage, she shone in Sam Mendes’ double bill at the Donmar Warehouse in Twelfth Night and Uncle Vanya.

Seth Lakeman, widely regarded as the UK’s foremost folk singer songwriter, releases his new album Tales From The Barrel House in April, and will be joining us at Warwick Arts Centre to play tunes from this, plus other gems from his critically-acclaimed back catalogue.

Having come to wider public attention following his Mercury nominated Kitty Jay album in 2005, when Seth brought folk music to a new, younger audience, he has been widely credited with breaking down perceptions and barriers often associated with folk music and its acceptance (or lack of it) in the mainstream.

After the phenomenal success of his Cirque Du Byrne Tour, Jason Byrne is bringing a brand new show back to Warwick Arts Centre. People’s Puppeteer will have new stories, new props, and more of his trademark high octane lunacy from the star of BBC1’s Live At The Apollo, Dave’s One Night Stand and The Channel 4 Comedy Gala.

Jason’s inspired, high-energy mad-cappery has made him the biggest selling comedian at the Edinburgh Comedy Festival. There is no other comedian like him and his sell out shows have won him many awards including Chortle Award for Best Headliner in 2007, and two nominations for the Perrier Award.

“It’s hard to think of any other comic who matches Jason Byrne for ebullient energy and regulated chaos” Independent.

“Unmissable” Evening Standard

“Full-on, doubled-up, gasping-for-oxygen hilarious” Chortle

Some comedians use very strong language and express controversial opinions. Please come prepared.

Enjoy 10% discount off ice creams and sorbets when you pre-order when purchasing your ticket from Box Office or online. Add an ice cream to your basket now or mention to our Box Office when you call to book your ticket. Find out more here

Stand-up mathematician Matt Parker, geek songstress Helen Arney and experiments guy Steve Mould present a comedy night for the fearlessly inquisitive.

After a year of sell-out shows in London and science festivals around the country, they’re bringing their unique mix of facts and fun to Warwick Arts Centre for the sum total of one night only.

Join three of the UK’s best (and nerdiest) performers for an evening of comedy, science, music, maths and interactive experiments as they ask those all-important questions:

How can you use a parabola to set stuff on fire?
How does the angler fish make love?*
And how dangerous can things get with just numbers?

“A riotously funny show about science… brimming with unashamed geekery” Three Weeks

“Harnesses comedy to highlight what is fun – and funny – about science” NewScientist.com

For more information – and to listen to their podcast – visit www.festivalofthespokennerd.com

Brand new show, brand new jokes, same old Jimmy.

“Gagging Order” promises to be an hilarious night out…let’s see shall we.

The show will be packed with one-liners, stories and jokes. Some clever, some rude and a few totally unacceptable.

Everybody’s welcome. Just leave your conscious, sense of common decency and moral compass at home & come on out for a laugh.

Jimmy has sold over a million DVDs and hosted countless TV shows but live comedy is what he does best, come and see for yourself.

Some comedians use strong language and express controversial opinions. Please come prepared.

N.B. Not suitable for under 16s

Tim Key is back on tour. Still spunking poetry everywhere. Now 35 years old.

Key’s cropped up in Newswipe, Cowards and We Need Answers and appears as Alan Partridge’s sidekick in Mid Morning Matters. He won The Edinburgh Comedy Award for his 2009 recital, Slutcracker, was nominated for a Bafta in 2008 and he’s got a late night poetry programme on Radio 4.

“This is sublime, busy and evocative work from a man who keeps getting better and better.” – ***** The List

“At times it’s like a wind up; elsewhere it’s so lovely you could bathe in it.” – **** Guardian

“This is one art house form-buster who can really give you a good time.” **** Times

“Once you have seen this show, ordinary stand-up will seem disappointingly bland.” Observer

This show is suitable for those aged 14+. Some comedians use strong language and express controversial opinions. Please come prepared.

Running time: 70 mins (no interval)

Best-known as the sardonic Head of Sixth Form, Mr Gilbert in the BAFTA award-winning The Inbetweeners, the critically acclaimed Greg Davies follows his sell-out, Foster’s comedy award nominated show, Firing Cheeseballs At A Dog, with a brand new stand-up show, The Back of My Mum’s Head.

“A man destined for greatness.” Time Out

“Uplifting, enjoyable and – most of all – extremely funny.” The Sun

“Rude, substantial, heartfelt, cunning.” The Times

Following release of their fourth album earlier this year, brothers Peter and David Brewis come to Warwick Arts Centre this Autumn.

The band’s music draws on influences as wide-ranging as Stravinsky, Fleetwood Mac, Serge Gainsbourg, Thelonious Monk and Kate Bush with a distinct sound like all of the pop music you’ve ever heard but with a distinctly british – and north-eastern – tinge. They playfully twist compositions into new and odd shapes, with a refreshing disregard for convention and cliche.

Field Music’s latest album Plumb is shot through with the surreal abstractions of 20th Century film music from Bernstein to Willy Wonka and with the off-beam funk and pristine synth-rock developed on the brothers’ School of Language and The Week That Was albums.

The brothers tour to Warwick Arts Centre with old hand Kev Dosdale on synth and guitar and new boy Andrew Lowther on bass.

Come and see Rob, star of 8 out of 10 Cats and Dave’s One Night Stand, doing what he does best – honest, frank, seriously funny stand-up.

A father for the second time, to a baby girl, Rob is now a radical feminist – but this is not a show about men vs women, more humanity vs insanity.

Best New Show Nominee 2012- Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival

“A man with genuinely funny bones” The Sunday Times

“Utterly illuminating” **** Edinburgh Evening News

Three times Grammy nominated, Brit award nominee and Ivor Novella winning singer-songwriter Joan Armatrading MBE, will be touring the UK during autumn 2012.

Never one to rest on her laurels, Joan remains fresh, vibrant and current; no more so than when live, on stage, where music comes to life. With every tour you are guaranteed a fantastic mix of magical old favourites plus brand new songs to fall in love with. Joan is as happy to play Love and Affection, Willow, Drop The Pilot and Me, Myself I, as the audience is to hear them. She is equally happy and proud of how her audiences embrace hearing new and exciting compositions, like Into The Blues (debuted at No. 1 in the US Blues chart 2007) and This Charming Life (debuted at No. 1 in Amazon download chart 2010).

During her long and illustrious career Joan has been successful in all musical genres, Pop, Blues, Folk, Reggae, and Jazz. Her audience, newly attracted or long term fans are as loyal to her as she is faithful to them.

The 2012 tour will see Joan performing Love and Affection amongst many other firm favourites, and also showcase songs from her brand new CD due for release in time for this mammoth tour.

Don’t miss the chance to see one of the most truly gifted performers of our time and book your seat for what will surely be a night to remember.

Joan will be supported on the night by BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winner Chris Wood, and Coventry-based singer Jamie Sherman, who won the chance to perform onstage thanks to a local talent competition.

Frankie Boyle has been pilloried, misrepresented and demonised. And for what? For Telling It Like It Is. Now he will attempt a final tour, to heal Britain’s fools. To support its rioters. To offer the inchoate laughter of despair to a culture in freefall. These are The Last Days of Sodom.

This show uses very strong content and recommended for those aged 18+. Please come prepared.

The Piramida Concert is an exciting and innovative project from this ever resourceful and imaginative group. They have played as a rock band throughout the world and specialise in amazing integrated orchestral projects. This time Efterklang collaborate with the 35-piece Northern Sinfonia, orchestra of The Sage Gateshead, conducted by the much in demand André de Ridder, to create a concert that will push musical boundaries while creating a musical experience that will reward everyone.

Efterklang have engaged classical arrangers Missy Mazzoli (Kronos Quartet, Victoire), Karsten Fundal (Under Byen, Oh Land) and Daníel Bjarnason (Sigur Rós, Múm) to create music for band and orchestra from the outset.

For this special concert, the Danish trio will be performing as a six-piece, augmented by Peter Broderick (piano), Katinka Fogh Vindelev (choir) and a special drummer to be announced later. Efterklang will be also be joined by a specially invited guest artist to open.

Efterklang are a ‘must see’ live act and this tour will not be repeated in the UK. If you have seen them before this is an opportunity to see something unique. If you haven’t seen Efterklang before, this is your ‘must see’ moment.

“Prepare to be left breathless” BBC Music

Part of our National Theatre Live season, featuring the best of British theatre broadcast live to the Warwick Arts Centre cinema.

Wealthy friend to the rich and powerful, patron of the arts, ostentatious host, Timon of Athens is surrounded by free-loaders and sycophants. He vastly outspends his resources but, finding his coffers empty, reassures his loyal steward that all will be well.

When he calls upon his associates, instead of offering help, they hang him out to dry. After a final, vengeful banquet, Timon withdraws to a literal and emotional wasteland, living off roots and pouring curses on a morally bankrupt Athens.

Simon Russell Beale has been described by the Independent as “the greatest stage actor of his generation.” His recent work for the National Theatre includes London Assurance, Much Ado About Nothing and Collaborators, John Hodge’s Olivier Award-nominated play in which he portrayed Stalin.

Runtime: 3 hours, including a hosted introduction and one 20-minute interval.

Human beings, in pursuit of a better life, are inclined to think that beyond the frontier there is a wonderful, promising world. And they may indeed find some succour for their longing; but in the end, very often their dream notion proves to be a chimera, an imagined beautiful reality that turns out to be false, crude and tragic.

Flamenco guitarist Paco Peña presents a unification of Spanish and African music and dance in Quimeras, a celebration of immigration and shared cultures.

The show will try to bring to life the journey of one or several people longing for a better life beyond the frontier, creating situations along the way that reflect good and bad aspects of their dreams, the reality of their lives and the interconnection with the people on the other side of the borders they cross.

“Peña’s own guitar playing is, as always, breathtakingly beautiful.” The Telegraph

lt’s 26 years since The Proclaimers released their first album This Is The Story. Strikingly individual, twin brothers Craig and Charlie Reid have over the years enjoyed huge successes across the globe.

They have carved a niche for themselves where pop, folk, new wave and punk collide as the emotional honesty, political fire, wit and sing-along raucousness of their songs and their extensive touring has enlightened and entertained fans new and old.

Expect to hear all the classics Sunshine On Leith, (I’m Gonna Be) 500 Miles, Letter From America, I’m On My Way, Life With You, Lets Get Married and more.

“My favourite band of all time. They write the most spectacular songs, big hearted, uncynical passionate songs.” David Tennant

Paul Chowdhry star of Channel 4’s Stand-Up For The Week will be coming to Coventry this Autumn with a brand new show.

Seen by many as the UK’s number one Asian comic, with over 3 million YouTube hits of his highly charged dry observational humour tapping into the multicultural diversity of contemporary Britain.

“A star in the making” The Daily Telegraph

“Naturally funny. Chowdhry has the balance of humour and honesty just right” Metro

Some comedians use strong language and express controversial opinions. Please come prepared.

This gig is standing in the stalls area, with seats available to purchase in the balconies. Standing area available by clicking ‘buy tickets’ at the top of this page, then select a ‘balcony’ area, then select ‘standing’ from the drop-down menu at the top of the page.

Warwick Arts Centre is excited to host Spiritualized this Autumn – especially given their local ties as the band was formed in the local town of Rugby. Frontman Jason Pierce (who also goes by the name of J.Spaceman) says:

“The thread that runs through all Spiritualized albums is that I am obsessed with music and the way we put it together. And if I have learned one thing in all the time I have been making music, it is that there are no rules.” JP

Their latest album Sweet Heart Sweet Light entered straight into the UK Top 20 and has received critical acclaim:

‘All the drama, heartache, torment and redemption you could ever want is right there in the music itself.’ NME

‘This album deserves to convert further listeners. It’s bruised and tender yet genuinely radiant.’ Metro

‘It’s as joyous an affirmation that far from losing his emotion, he’s as engaged as ever with the sheer visceral thrill of music.’ The Independent

Following several sell-out UK tours and best-selling stand-up DVDs, multi-award winning welsh wonder Rhod Gilbert is back on the road with a brand new live show. A regular on Live At The Apollo and with his own BBC One show Ask Rhod Gilbert, he’s one of the world’s hottest comedians.

His stand-up rants on life’s minor irritations are legendary, but this year, he’s a more mellow fellow altogether. He’s now so laid-back he even let someone tattoo a Battenberg on him. Will the new, chilled-out Rhod get his girl and live happily ever after, or will it be microwaved baked potato for one again? Could it be the Mr Angry of comedy as you’ve never seen him before?

“One of the best comedians anywhere in the world” Time Out

Some comedians use strong language and express controversial opinions. Please come prepared.

Alex Wilson is a brilliantly gifted Latin jazz pianist and band leader. Well known for his large ensembles, he was recently acclaimed for his ‘Mali Latino’ project which headlined at the London Jazz Festival and topped the Songlines World Album of the Year chart.

As well as releasing his own sizzling Afro-Cuban albums on the Candid label and performing with Courtney Pine’s band, Jazz Jamaica, 2011 saw him produce and record *Rodrigo y Gabriela*’s latest album ‘Area 52’ which he has been performing around the world on their sell out tour.

This fantastic new trio brings the music back to the piano with a fresh repertoire. The music is driven by Alex’s inimitable piano style steeped in the Afro-Cuban/Caribbean tradition. Drummer Frank Tontoh has played with a wide array of jazz stars, plus world music champions such as Osibisa and Soothsayers. Davide Mantovani is a regular bass player for Monica Vasconcelos, Ingrid Laubrock, Ian Carr’s Nucleus and Antonio Forcione amongst many others.

Alex Wilson – piano
Frank Tontoh – drums
Davide Mantovani – double bass

Singer-songwriters Joy Williams and John Paul White are The Civil Wars, a Grammy award-winning duo hailing from California and Alabama respectively. The band’s debut album Barton Hollow has received public and critical acclaim, with the duo winning Best Folk Album and Best Country Duo/Group Performance at this year’s Grammy Awards.

Praise for The Civil War’s debut album, Barton Hollow:
“a bewitching debut album of sparse, spectral Americana.” **** The Guardian

“…through bands such as The Civil Wars, a new music industry is born.” Los Angeles Times

After more than a decade since his last stand-up show and following a hugely successful tour of Australia in 2011, Alan Davies, the much-loved star of iconic television series such as Jonathan Creek and QI, makes a long-awaited return to live stand-up this Autumn.

Extra date added
Due to popular demand, Alan will be playing an additional date on Sat 17 Nov. Book your tickets now!

Star of Live at the Apollo (BBC1) and two series of the smash-hit comedy Lee Nelson’s Well Good Show (BBC3).

“The hottest creation since Ali G and Vicky Pollard” (Daily Mirror) is coming to Warwick Arts Centre.

Hello u blurb reading legend! Its Lee Nelson here from off ur tellybox. Me and my best mate and fat legend Omelette are coming to a town near u with a well funny, proper mental, live show. So dont b a mug, stop reading this rubbish n get yourself a ticket! Do It! Do It! Do It! Do it! Qwaliteeeeeeee!!!!

Continuing their smash-hit sell-out tour, three Olivier Award nominated and now a global internet sensation, Fascinating Aida are still Britain’s best comedy cabaret trio.

This show will include several numbers hot off the press, plus a few old favourites including their infamous anthem to budget travel, Cheap Flights (9 million plus hits on YouTube) as well as the Dogging Song, a fond homage to the joys of al fresco sex.

“Magnificent …. Glorious” ***** The Times

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

“Cabaret Heaven … satire served with the sweetest of smiles … hilarious” ***** Metro

Kevin Bridges comes to Warwick Arts Centre in Autumn 2012 his brand new show ‘The Story Continues…’ which follows up the huge success of his sell-out UK & Ireland tour of 2010. Having made his debut on BBC 1’s ‘Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow’ in 2009 he has now gone onto host the Bafta nominated ‘Live At The Apollo’ and Channel 4’s ‘Stand-Up For The Week’, his new 6 part BBC 1 series – ‘Kevin Bridges What’s The Story’ will be transmitted in February 2012.

“It’s his eye for detail that has elevated him to a MUST-SEE act.“ The Daily Mirror

“The most exciting talent in Scottish stand-up.” The Herald

Please note that some comedians use very strong language and express controversial opinions. Please come prepared.

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury.

Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud!

Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure – plus a few special surprises!

Ages: 3+

“A fun-filled frolic.” The Guardian

“A perfect mini-adventure…” The Daily Mail

Broken Britain may be staring into the bottom of an empty pint glass, but don’t lose hope – Al Murray The Pub Landlord is back to fill it up again, with a brand new show of epic proportions.

Britain’s most irrepressible innkeeper will be serving up his premier brew of ale-inspired acumen and bar-room buffoonery at Warwick Arts Centre this December, as part of his 2012 THE ONLY WAY IS EPIC TOUR.

This monumental new live stand-up show from the multi-award-winning comedian, directly follows the nationwide success of the Guv’s twice extended Barrel of Fun tour, and is sure to sell-out fast. Get your orders in now!

“A National Treasure – FIVE STARS” Daily Telegraph

Please note, parental discretion is advised. Show contains adult themes.

As seen on BBC 1’s Live at the Apollo, now a regular on Channel 4’s Stand Up For the Week, Andrew Lawrence is back at Warwick Arts Centre.

Twice nominated Best UK Headline Act at the Chortle Awards 2010/11, also a former double Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee, audiences can expect Lawrence to deliver an evening of top class stand-up.

‘He discharges kamikaze philosophies a-hundred-to-the-dozen. And it is outstanding.’ The List

‘His almost Victorian blend of rage and good grammar is still a delight.’ Sunday Times

Brand new show, brand new jokes, same old Jimmy.

Gagging Order promises to be an hilarious night out…let’s see shall we.

The show will be packed with one-liners, stories & jokes: some clever, some rude & a few totally unacceptable.

Everybody’s welcome. Just leave your conscious, sense of common decency & moral compass at home & come on out for a laugh.

Jimmy has sold over a million DVDs & hosted countless TV shows but live comedy is what he does best, so come and see for yourself.

N.B. Not suitable for Under 16s

Some comedians use very strong language and express controversial opinions. Please come prepared.

Milton Jones is back on the road with another tour, this time imaginatively entitled On The Road. If you like the stuff he’s done on Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo or any of the nine radio series he’s done for Radio 4, then this is the show for you. Hundreds of his celebrated one-liners, plus pictures he drew. Clever, surreal but mainly just stupid stupid stupid. He’s won awards, you know.

“He’s fast absurd, and very funny” Radio Times

“No-one can touch Jones when he hits his stride” The Guardian