thsh what’s on guide december 2010 & january 2011

Box offi ce 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk

Irina Kolesnikova with St Petersburg Ballet Theatre - The Nutcracker Saturday 8 January and Sunday 9 January Symphony Hall

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contents3 Highlights

4 December Events

22 January Events

31 Coming Soon

32 Free Jazz – Rush Hour Blues & Sax in the City

33 Mid-day Mantra & Folk For Free

35 Education & Community

36 Booking Information

37 Seating Plans

38 Dining, Drinking & Shopping

39 Public Tours & Private Hires

40 Accessibility

41 Supporting Town Hall and Symphony Hall

42-43 Concerts at a Glance

44 How to Reach Us

Supporting Town Hall and Symphony Hall

highlights Cecilia Bartoli: Sacrifi cium p8Russian Patriarchate Choir of Moscow by Candlelight p9

Soweto Kinch Quartet p7A Swinging Christmas featuring theBBC Big Band and Paul Carrack p11

The Roy Wood Rock and Roll Band p6Belle and Sebastian p9

Muyiwa/Riversongz & Town Hall Gospel Choir p11An Evening with Mohammed Rafi p17

Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band p9St Agnes Fountain 10th Anniversary Christmas Concert p17

Felix Dexter - Multiple Personalities in Order p29Gyles Brandreth - The One to One Show p30

We’re Going On A Bear Hunt p18Christmas Carol Singalong p19

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faMiLY

RoCK & pop

spoKEn WoRDCoMEDY &

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Supported by Town Hall renovation also funded by

WELCoME To YoUR GUiDE foR DECEMBER anD JanUaRY shoWs aT ToWn haLL anD sYMphonY haLL.For full details of all our upcoming events please contact the Box Offi ce on 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk

find us on: www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall www.twitter.com/ThshBirmingham

3Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk

5DECEMBER www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall www.twitter.com/THSHBirmingham

elgaR’s cello conceRtowednesday 1 deceMbeR, 2.15PM

City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Andrew Manze conductorTorleif Thedéen cello

Grieg Peer Gynt, Suite No 1 13’Elgar Cello Concerto 26’Stenhammar Symphony No 2 40’

Elgar’s Cello Concerto is full of haunting melodies and suppressed passion. Peer Gynt, meanwhile, is a colourful parade of tunes - from the radiant Morning to the notorious Hall of the Mountain King. Then after the interval, enjoy the glorious Second Symphony from “Swedish Sibelius” Wilhelm Stenhammar.

£9.50, £14, £19, £23, £26, £30, £35Discounts available, please check when booking.

john bishoPwednesday 1 deceMbeR, 8PM

The multi-award winning comedian and star of Live At The Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Roadshow, Skins, Mock The Week and 8 Out of 10 Cats, performs his brand new show.

£20Sold out, returns only.

Positively Red - woRld aids day conceRt 2010wednesday 1 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

The annual Positively Red Gala Concert hosted by Birmingham’s own Mrs Barbara Nice features music, poetry, dance and drama. Come and join in the celebration of the many advances in HIV treatment, leading to longer, more productive lives.

free event, just turn up on the night.

juRowski conducts MahleR 4thuRsday 2 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

London Philharmonic OrchestraVladimir Jurowski conductorSteven Osborne pianoChristine Schäfer soprano

Beethoven Piano Concerto No 4 32’Mahler Symphony No 4 54’

Described as ‘the most creative force in London’s orchestral life’ (Financial Times), Vladimir Jurowski’s concert contains Mahler’s Fourth Symphony, one of the composer’s most relaxed works – classical, song-like and culminating in a representation of a child’s view of heaven. Steven Osborne is the soloist in the gentle lyrical poetry of Beethoven’s Fourth Piano Concerto.

6.15pm Pre-concert talk: Lyndon Jenkins traces the history of Mahler performances in the UK.

Part of The Birmingham Mahler Cycle.

£5, £15, £20, £25, £30, £35, £40Discounts are available, please check when booking.

ludovico einaudi: the solo conceRt wednesday 24 noveMbeR, 7.30PM

eXtRa date added

A real event for lovers of Ludovico Einaudi’s music. Incorporating infl uences from rock, world, electronica and classical music Einuadi’s sweeping compositions are contemporary and deeply touching.

£25

lee Mack – going outMonday 15 noveMbeR, 8PM

eXtRa date added

Due to phenomenal demand Lee Mack has added a fourth date to his Symphony Hall run. Don’t miss this evening of high energy banter, well crafted gags and sharp one-liners!

£20.50

Don'T Miss

Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk4 noVEMBER

Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk6 7DECEMBER www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall www.twitter.com/THSHBirminghamDECEMBER

bPso PRoMs night sPectaculaR!satuRday 4 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

The British Police Symphony Orchestra returns once again for the annual Proms Night Spectacular! The fi rst half features Rimsky-Korsakov's fantastic Scheherazade before launching into a traditional Last Night Celebration. Come and be part of one of the region’s most popular seasonal concerts.

£10, £15, £20 Discounts available, please check when booking.

soweto kinch QuaRtet satuRday 4 deceMbeR, 8PM, cbso centRe

Award-winning saxophonist Soweto Kinch performs music from his new album The New Emancipation, which combines modern jazz and hip-hop, and reapplies the blues to life in the 21st century. Kinch is joined by Graham Godfrey on drums, Karl Rasheed-Abel on bass and Femi Temowo on guitar.

£14Discounts available, please check when booking. Unreserved seating. Presented by Birmingham Jazz and Town Hall Symphony Hall. Soweto Kinch is a Town Hall Associate Artist.

divine Music foR tRuMPets and voices with haRRy enfield as handelsatuRday 4 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

Harry Enfi eld, assuming the role of an aged Handel, reminisces to the audience, taking them on an extraordinary journey. Divine Music for Trumpets and Voices combines some of the composer’s most thrilling music with an informative, moving, and at times humorous dialogue.

£8, £20, £26.50, £35

Harry Enfi eld HandelThe Rinaldo ConsortThe Leicester Bach ChoirBenedict Hoffnung conductor

David Blackadder trumpetEleanor Gregory sopranoChristopher Lowrey counter-tenorGeorge Humphreys bass/baritone

fRiday night classics: silent heRoesfRiday 3 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

Carl Davis conductor

City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Douglas Fairbanks stars in The Iron Mask (1929 version) Act 1 56'Act 2 47'

Symphony Hall turns into a giant cinema for a swashbuckling adventure starring silent movie legend Douglas Fairbanks. The most recent version of The Iron Mask starred Leonardo DiCaprio, but this original version, accompanied by the full CBSO will be a real treat!

£11, £15, £17.50, £20.50, £23.50, £27, £31Please note there will be an interval. Discounts available, please check when booking.

the Roy wood Rock and Roll bandfRiday 3 deceMbeR, 8PM

Plus support from The Spyders

Birmingham born Roy enjoyed huge success as a member of The Move, Electric Light Orchestra and Wizzard and is forever linked to the festive season thanks to the hit I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday.Following previous sell-out performances at Town Hall, Roy Wood returns with his Rock and Roll Band to kick Christmas off in style.

£19

chRistMas celebRation 2010

thuRsday 2 deceMbeR, 8PM

Birmingham Philharmonic Concert BandThe Choir of St Peter’s Collegiate Church, Wolverhampton

A rich, musical repertoire that includes pieces from the musical Les Miserables and other popular classics will be combined with favourite carols including O Come, All Ye Faithful, Once in Royal David’s City and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. Presented by the Birmingham & Black Country Community Foundation. Proceeds go to local grassroots community projects within Birmingham and the Black Country.

£12, £15, £20

Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk8 DECEMBER 9DECEMBER www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall www.twitter.com/THSHBirmingham

Russian PatRiaRchate choiR of Moscow by candlelighttuesday 7 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

The Russian Patriarchate Choir of Moscow evokes the authentic sound of ancient Russia. These twelve male singers are dedicated to the repertoire of Russian Orthodox Church music and traditional folk songs, much of which lay in obscurity for centuries and was suppressed by the Soviet regime. Performed by candlelight, their deep and sonorous singing evokes haunting images of a bygone age: gold-encrusted cathedral domes, rich sacred iconography, and the dark snowy nights of Russian folklore.

£5, £10, £13.50, £16.50, £20Discounts available, please check when booking.

Maddy PRioR & the caRnival band – caRols and caPeRsMonday 6 deceMbeR, 8PM

A unique celebratory show of Christmas music. Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band put their inimitable stamp on a range of familiar and not-so-familiar festive fare, from favourites like The Holly and the Ivy and I Saw Three Ships to secular carols such as The Boar’s Head and especially composed songs from their latest album.

£17.50No support.

belle and sebastianMonday 6 deceMbeR, 8PM

Belle and Sebastian visit Symphony Hall, backed by the 40-piece London Contemporary Orchestra on their first tour of the British Isles since 2006, and will be performing songs from their eighth studio album, Belle and Sebastian Write About Love.

£25No support.

cecilia baRtoli: sacRificiuMsunday 5 deceMbeR, 3PM

Cecilia Bartoli mezzo sopranoKammerorchester BaselRare and beautiful music by Porpora, Caldara and Handel.

A journey through the extraordinary world of 18th-century castratos, whose dazzling vocal virtuosity held their contemporaries spellbound.

“To experience Cecilia Bartoli live in concert is as much about seeing her as hearing her. Bartoli’s musicianship, sense of drama and entertainment is of a calibre matched by a tiny handful of singers today. A unique afternoon for those lucky to grab a ticket!” Oliver Condy, BBC Music Magazine.

1.45pm Pre-concert talk with David Owen Norris: Everything you wanted to know about the castrato but were afraid to ask.

£5, £17.50, £25, £35, £40, £50, £60Discounts available, please check when booking.

univeRsity of biRMinghaM choiR and syMPhony oRchestRasunday 5 deceMbeR, 6PM

Paul Rodmell conductor

The University of Birmingham celebrates London in its performances of Elgar's Cockaigne Overture and Dyson's rarely-heard In Honour of the City. They also look forward to Christmas in Vaughan Williams's well-known Fantasia and the Troika from Prokofiev's suite for the satirical film Lieutenant Kijé.

£15Discounts available, please check when booking.

Elgar Overture, CockaigneDyson In Honour of the CityIreland Greater Love Hath No Man

Prokofiev Lieutenant KijéVaughan Williams Fantasia on Christmas Carols


a swinging chRistMas featuRing the bbc big band and Paul caRRackfRiday 10 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

BBC Big BandPaul Carrack vocals Jiggs Whigham conductor

The BBC Big Band celebrates Christmas with a Town Hall exclusive in the company of special guest, singer Paul Carrack. Together they perform seasonal favourites including Let it Snow, Winter Wonderland, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. The concert also features tracks from Paul’s new album – A Different Hat.

£12.50, £16.50, £19.50Concert to be recorded for BBC Radio 2’s Big Band Special. BBC Big Band is a Town Hall Associate Artist.

Muyiwa/RiveRsongz & town hall gosPel choiR satuRday 11 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

An evening of inspirational, uplifting and worshipful music with the UK’s leading gospel artiste, Muyiwa/Riversongz. Described by Cross Rhythms as the “hottest gospel artiste to emerge in the UK,” Muyiwa is also a popular presenter on Premier Christian Radio. In this evening’s performance he brings his unique brand of worship music to Town Hall with the much-loved Town Hall Gospel Choir led by Colin Anderson, and other home-grown support.

£15Discounts available, please check when booking. Presented by Town Hall Symphony Hall in association with Roy Francis Productions.

lunchtiMe chRistMas Musicwednesday 8 deceMbeR, 1PM

Choristers of Salisbury CathedralDavid Halls directorThomas Trotter organ

Join us for the finest Christmas music and carols, sung by a choir with nearly 800 years of musical history accompanied by Thomas Trotter on the mighty Symphony Organ. Featuring music by Archer, Rutter and Stanford as well as audience carols. Advance booking is recommended for this very popular concert.

£8Reserved seating. Discounts available, please check when booking.

beethoven and RachManinov wednesday 8 deceMbeR, 7.30PMsatuRday 11 deceMbeR, 7PM

City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Thomas Dausgaard conductorLouis Lortie piano

Beethoven Piano Concerto No 5 Emperor 38’Rachmaninov Symphony No 2 55’

The majestic proportions and stirring melodies of Beethoven’s Fifth Piano Concerto make it a work on a truly imperial scale. Rachmaninov’s tremendous Second Symphony is even grander in scale. Expect soaring emotions and sweeping drama, from first note to last.

£9.50, £14, £18, £21, £24.50, £29, £33, £37.50, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.

celebRity Piano Recital: PiotR andeRszewskithuRsday 9 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

Schumann Six Etudes in Canonic Form 16’J S Bach English Suite No 5 in E minor 21’J S Bach English Suite No 3 in G minor 21’

Polish pianist Piotr Anderszewski’s pursuit of perfection brings a special intensity to his playing, and his unique musical insights make him one of the world’s most individual artists. Appearances by this inspirational musician are increasingly rare, and lovers of great piano playing should not hesitate to book immediately.

£5, £7.50, £15, £22.50, £30Discounts available, please check when booking.

handel: Messiah sh fRiday 10 deceMbeR, 7PMth tuesday 14 deceMbeR, 7PM

City of Birmingham ChoirCity of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraAdrian Lucas conductorThomas Trotter harpsichordDavid Newsholme organ

Once again City of Birmingham Choir brings its acclaimed performances of this popular masterpiece to both Symphony Hall and Town Hall.

‘Christmas festivities can sometimes disappoint but the City of Birmingham Choir’s performances of Handel’s Messiah never do.’ Birmingham Post

sh £11, £16, £21, £26, £31, £36 th £12, £16, £24, £28

Claire Wild sopranoFrances Bourne contraltoJames Oxley tenorAlan Ewing bass


Midlands hosPitals’ choiR - a chRistMas celebRationtuesday 14 deceMbeR, 3PM & 7.30PM

David Lawrence conductorBlakeGemini BrassJulian Wilkins organ

The Midlands Hospitals’ Choir gives annual Christmas Concerts to raise funds for CLIC Sargent, the largest charity helping children with cancer. The evening will include a selection of old and new seasonal music with special guests, Blake, bridging the gap between pop and opera and whom have twice been nominated for a Classical Brit Award.

£7.50, £10, £16, £22Discounts available, please check when booking.

handel: Messiah tuesday 14 deceMbeR, 7PM

City of Birmingham ChoirFor details see page 11

'Rejoice' chRistMas caRol conceRtsunday 12 deceMbeR, 2.30PM & 6PM

Christmas carols, music and drama with the Salvation Army. Featuring vocal soloist Darren Bartlett, guest speaker Sarah Grace and the usual festive music from the Salvation Army's own brass bands, choirs, timbrels and children. With plenty of opportunities for audience participation, let the Salvation Army remind you of the true meaning of Christmas.

£5, £8, £10Discounts available, please check when booking. On sale 9 November.

sing caRols with the city oRganistMonday 13 deceMbeR, 1PM

Thomas Trotter organCambrian BrassJeremy Nicholas compere

This truly festive occasion is now an annual favourite. Come and sing your heart out to favourite carols, led by Thomas Trotter and Cambrian Brass, with the inimitable Jeremy Nicholas as your compere.

£8Reserved seating. Discounts available, please check when booking.

only Men aloud – a chRistMas conceRtMonday 13 deceMbeR, 7.30PMMonday 20 deceMbeR, 7.30PM – eXtRa date added

After two acclaimed sell out tours in 2009, Only Men Aloud are back with a very special Christmas themed concert. The show will be a selection of festive repertoire, plus a mixture of songs from both of their albums and a few firm favourites.

£20, £26, £29.50

j s bach chRistMas oRatoRiosunday 12 deceMbeR, 4PM

Ex Cathedra Choir & Baroque Orchestra

J S Bach Christmas Oratorio cantatas I, II, III & VI

Bach’s Christmas Oratorio is perhaps the most confident and optimistic statement of Christian belief in the whole choral repertoire. Actually a sequence of cantatas for Christmas, it is richly scored, with a large Baroque orchestra that includes wonderfully uplifting trumpets and drums.

£5, £7.50, £17.50, £25, £35Discounts available, please check when booking.Ex Cathedra is a Town Hall Associate Artist.

Jeffrey Skidmore conductorGrace Davidson sopranoMatthew Venner alto

Samuel Boden evangelist and tenorGreg Skidmore bass


black voices & voces8fRiday 17 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

An evening of vocal sophistication with a good measure of festive cheer from the exhilarating talents of two of the UK’s most celebrated a cappella groups. If you enjoy great singing, this double bill is a must for everyone who loves the power and beauty of the human voice – the first instrument!

£15Discounts available, please check when booking.Black Voices is a Town Hall Associate Artist.

Mendelssohn abRoadthuRsday 16 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraPablo Heras-Casado conductorJean-Efflam Bavouzet piano

Mendelssohn Overture, The Hebrides 10’Schumann Piano Concerto 31’Busoni Berceuse Elégaique 9’Mendelssohn Symphony No 4 Italian 26’

It’s midwinter - so treat yourself to some musical sunshine with Mendelssohn’s exuberant Italian symphony. Pure escapism - and there’s pure romance too, in Schumann’s adorable Piano Concerto. Pablo Heras-Casado also steers the CBSO across Mendelssohn’s musical seascape and Busoni’s haunting Berceuse Elégiaque.


biRMinghaM conseRvatoiRe syMPhony oRchestRa - faRewell to geoRge caiRdthuRsday 16 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

Lionel Friend conductorGeorge Caird oboeZoltan Vincze trumpet

Elgar In the South, Op 50 Alassio 20’Arutiunian Trumpet Concerto in A flat Major 17’Delius Brigg Fair, An English Rhapsody 16’Strauss Oboe Concerto in D Major 28’

With this concert, Birmingham Conservatoire bids a fond farewell to George Caird, who brings his distinguished seventeen year term as Principal to a close as soloist in Strauss’s delightful Oboe Concerto.

£12 Discounts available, please check when booking.

the ukulele oRchestRa of gReat bRitain - the silveR jubilee touR: god save the ukulele oRchestRawednesday 15 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain celebrates its 25 year anniversary in 2010. The Orchestra has seen over 9,000 days of ukulele action and has been giving concerts for one quarter of a century, expanding from gigs in London pubs to touring the world; from the Village Hall to the Royal Albert Hall and now Symphony Hall.

£19.50Discounts available, please check when booking.No support.


cbso festive favouRites with PResenteR ben foglesatuRday 18 deceMbeR, 3PM & 7.30PM, tuesday 21 deceMbeR, 7.30PMwednesday 22 deceMbeR, 3PM & 7.30PM

City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraSimon Halsey conductor

Get Christmas off to a suitably joyful start by joining the CBSO and its family of choruses for seasonal music – and plenty of carols for all to sing. We also welcome back TV presenter, adventurer and superhuman rower Ben Fogle to share festive readings and stories.

£9.50, £17, £23.50, £29.50, £34, £37.50, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.

caRols by candlelightfRiday 17 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

Mozart Festival Orchestra in full period costume

Mozart Festival ChorusSophie Bevan sopranoSteven Devine conductor

Carols and seasonal classics performed by the UK’s most elegant ensemble in full period costume in a candle-lit style setting.

Carols include: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, The First Nowell, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Once in Royal David’s City, God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear, Good King Wenceslas and Unto Us is Born a Son.

£12, £16, £21.50, £25.50, £29.50, £34.50

Handel Zadok the PriestMozart Laudate DominumBach Wachet aufVivaldi Gloria (Opening)Cullen Coventry CarolL. Mozart Musical Sleigh Ride

Pearsall In dulci jubiloCorelli Allegro & Pastorale from Christmas ConcertoHandel Let the bright Seraphim Christmas sequence from Messiah including Hallelujah ChorusBach Air on the G string

Ben Fogle presenterCBSO Choruses

chRistMas wishes with hayley westenRasunday 19 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

Hayley Westenra’s BandRaven String QuartetEdgbaston High School for Girls Junior ChoirTim Evans musical director

With special guest artist Rhydian Roberts.

The Little Road To Bethlehem, The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire), Veni Veni Emmanuel, Silent Night, River, Corpus Christi Carol, Peace Shall Come, All With You, Ave Maria, O Holy Night.

Join award-winning star singer Hayley Westenra and her guests for a very special Christmas concert full of her favourite carols and songs. Since Hayley’s fi rst recording at the tender age of twelve her performances continue to charm audiences around the world.

£12, £16, £21.50, £25.50, £29.50, £34.50

an evening with MohaMMed Rafi satuRday 18 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

This special evening brings to life the works of the legendary Mohammed Rafi upon the 30th anniversary of his death and his last ever performance in the UK which took place at Town Hall in 1979. Celebrating his life and music, the event brings together the best of Bollywood and UK singers and musicians.

£15, £20Sponsored by ICICI Bank.

st agnes fountain 10th anniveRsaRy chRistMas conceRtsunday 19 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

Since their fi rst get together to record the eponymous St Agnes Fountain album in 2001, the quartet has brought musical invention and laughter to the star-dust atmosphere of the season. The esteemed group features founder David Hughes, Fairport Convention’s Chris Leslie and Chris While and Julie Matthews, winners of BBC Folk Awards Best Duo 2009.

£18

canoldiR’s chRistMas vaRiationsMonday 20 deceMbeR, 7PM

Canoldir Male Choir James Llewelyn Jones musical director

Start Christmas week with Canoldir and their guests: Cardiff singer of the year fi nalist Elizabeth Donovan and Midlands Section 1 brass band champions The Langley Band. Enjoy an eclectic mix of favourites old and new and perhaps a few surprises too.

£13, £16

The Langley Band Cliff Parker musical director Elizabeth Donovan soprano

Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.ukDECEMBER 19 www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall www.twitter.com/THSHBirmingham18

Real deal coMedy jaMMonday 27 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

This Christmas laugh feast brings together five of the funniest comedians around including host Richard Blackwood, Kevin J, and American Def Comedy Jam comedians Rodney Laney and Kool Buba Ice.

£25, £27.50

tuesday 21 deceMbeR – wednesday 12 januaRy

ThE hiT WEsT EnD shoW – pERfECT foR ChRisTMas

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

Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score.

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!

“Quite simply the best family show I’ve seen.” Sky Arts

Watch the official trailer online at www.bearhuntlive.com

£10.50, £8.50 per ticket for groups of 10+

for groups please call 0800 358 7070

suitable for age 3+

find the Bear!The Bear Hunt is heading to Town Hall this Christmas! How many Bears can you find inside the What’s On Guide? For the answer visit www.thsh.co.uk/bearhunt

we’Re going on a beaR hunt

Tuesday 21 Dec, 1.30pm & 3.30pmWednesday 22 Dec, 11am & 1.30pm Thursday 23 Dec, 11am & 1.30pmFriday 24 Dec, 11am & 1.30pmMonday 27 Dec, 11amTuesday 28 Dec, 11am & 1.30pm

Wednesday 29 Dec, 11am & 1.30pmThursday 30 Dec, 11am & 1.30pm Friday 31 Dec, 11am & 1.30pmWednesday 5 Jan, 10.30am & 1.30pm*Thursday 6 Jan, 10.30am & 1.30pm*Saturday 8 Jan, 11am & 1.30pm

chRistMas caRol singalongthuRsday 23 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

London Concert OrchestraSophie-Louise Dann special guest singerLondon Concert Chorus

Clap your hands, stamp your feet and sing your heart out as Jonathan Cohen invites you to join in with carols and songs galore. Carols include: Jingle Bells, Let It Snow, Silent Night, The First Nowell, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Good King Wenceslas and many more.

£12, £16, £21.50, £25.50, £29.50, £34.50Group discounts available, please check when booking.

chRistMas eve classicsfRiday 24 deceMbeR, 3PM

London Concert Orchestra David Hill conductorAndrew Tortise tenorPaul Beniston trumpetBirmingham Choral UnionLichfield Cathedral Girls Choir

Plus carols for all: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Good King Wenceslas. This concert of joyous seasonal and traditional music for all the family perfectly captures the true spirit of Christmas.

£12, £16, £21.50, £25, £27.50, £31.50Group discounts available, please check when booking.

Bach Christmas Oratorio (Opening Chorus) Sheep May Safely GrazeHandel Ombra mai fu from XerxesBerlioz The Shepherds’ FarewellDarke In the Bleak Midwinter

Franck Panis AngelicusAdams The Holy CityClarke Trumpet SuitePearsall In dulci jubiloAdam O Holy Night

DECEMBER

Sunday 9 Jan, 11am & 1.30pmMonday 10 Jan, 1.30pm*Tuesday 11 Jan, 10.30am & 1.30pm*Wednesday 12 Jan, 10.30am & 1.30pm*

*Term time performances. Bear images courtesy of Walker Books. www.walkerbooks.co.uk

19


john williaMs – the gReatest Movie Musictuesday 28 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

London Concert Orchestra John Rigby conductor Paul Gambaccini presenter

Epic themes from the most famous film scores of all time including music from E.T., J.F.K., Jaws, Star Wars, Superman, Far and Away, Harry Potter, Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park, Schindler’s List, Close Encounters and Memoirs of a Geisha. Introduced by special guest presenter Paul Gambaccini.

£12, £16.50, £22.50, £26.50, £29.50, £35.50Group discounts available, please check when booking.

the sound of Musicals wednesday 29 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

London Concert OrchestraJessie Buckley special guest and glittering stars from London’s West End:Deborah Myers, James Graeme and Tim HowarDavid Shrubsole conductor

Showstopping songs from the greatest Broadway and West End musicals including: Music from The Lion King, Mamma Mia, High Society, The King & I, Oklahoma!, Cabaret, Oliver!, My Fair Lady, South Pacific, West Side Story, Les Miserables, The Sound Of Music, Phantom Of The Opera. With special guest TV star Jessie Buckley, ‘Nancy Favourite’ from the BBC’s I’d Do Anything.

£12, £16.50, £22.50, £26.50, £29.50, £35.50Group discounts available, please check when booking.

beethoven’s ninththuRsday 30 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

Royal Philharmonic OrchestraChristopher Warren-Green conductorCatrin Aur sopranoCarolyn Dobbin mezzoJesús León tenorLeigh Melrose bassSofya Gulyak piano (First prize winner of 2009 Leeds International Piano Competition)City of Birmingham Choir

Beethoven Piano Concerto No 5 EmperorBeethoven Symphony No 9 Choral

An unmissable all-Beethoven concert with the monumental Choral Symphony and its climactic Ode to Joy.

£22.50, £27.50, £32.50, £37.50

the fouR seasons by candlelighttuesday 28 deceMbeR, 3PM

Mozart Festival OrchestraSteven Devine conductorAlexander Sitkovetsky violinMartin Burgess violinRuby Hughes sopranoCrispian Steele-Perkins trumpet

Exquisite 18th century classics performed in full period costume in an evocative candle-lit style setting.

£12, £16, £21.50, £25, £27.50, £31.50Group discounts available, please check when booking.

last night of the chRistMas PRoMsMonday 27 deceMbeR, 7.30PM

London Concert OrchestraStephen Bell conductorCamilla Roberts sopranoJames Edwards tenor

Plus all your Proms favourites including: 633 Squadron, Hornpipe, Rule! Britannia, Nessun Dorma and Land of Hope and Glory.An unforgettable programme of rousing classics including a grand British finale!

£12, £16, £21.50, £25.50, £29.50, £34.50Group discounts available, please check when booking.

Rossini Thieving Magpie OvertureSousa Liberty Bell MarchGrieg Morning and In the Hall of the Moutain KingMascagni Intermezzo from Cavelleria Rusticana

Brahms Hungarian Dance No 5Di Capua O sole mioPuccini O soave fanciullaVerdi Brindisi from La traviataTchaikovsky Nutcracker Suite

Handel Arrival of the Queen of Sheba, Lascia ch’io pianga from Rinaldo, Let the Bright SeraphimAlbinoni AdagioStanley Trumpet VoluntaryPachelbel CanonClarke Trumpet SuiteBach Concerto for two violinsVivaldi The Four Seasons

22 JanUaRY Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 23JanUaRY www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall www.twitter.com/THSHBirmingham

glenn MilleR oRchestRasunday 2 januaRy, 3PM

Glenn Miller OrchestraThe Jiving Lindy Hoppers special guestsJan MessederColin AnthonyThe Uptown Hall GangThe Moonlight Serenaders

Legendary bandleader Ray McVay swings into Birmingham to direct the UK’s most renowned big band for a nostalgic journey back to the forties with chart topping war time hits including, 633 Squadron, We’ll Meet Again, Mr. Bojangles, That’s Amore, Joy to the World, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, When You Wish Upon A Star, Kalamazoo, Little Brown Jug, String of Pearls, Pennsylvania 65,000 and In the Mood.

The orchestra will perform the second half of the concert in the World War II uniforms of the US army Air Force.

£15, £19.50, £24.50, £27.50

viennese new yeaRfRiday 7 januaRy, 2.15PM & 7.30PM

City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraRoberto Minczuk conductorChloë Hanslip violin

Including Strauss: On the Beautiful Blue Danube, Tales from the Vienna Woods, Champagne Polka, Long Live the Magyar!, By the Danube's Shores, Wiener Bonbons, Wiener Blut, Leichtes Blut.

Léhar Zigeunerliebe Walztes, Hungarian Fantasy for Violin and Orchestra

Kreisler music for violin and orchestra

It wouldn't be New Year without the music of Vienna! Let the CBSO whirl you back to a more glamorous age, as we raise a glass to the start of another great year. Prosit!

£9.50, £17, £23.50, £29.50, £33.50, £37.50, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.

the MikadosatuRday 1 januaRy, 7.30PM

London Concert Orchestra & ChorusRichard Balcombe conductorAlistair McGowan The MikadoOliver White Nanki-PooRichard Suart Ko-KoBruce Graham Pooh-BahGiles Davies Pish-TushRebecca Bottone Yum-YumSophie-Louise Dann Pitti-SingAnna Lowe Peep-BoJill Pert Katisha

Featuring: Tit-Willow, I’ve Got A Little List, The sun, whose rays, A Wand’ring Minstrel, I, Three Little Maids from School, Let the Punishment Fit the Crime, The Flowers That Bloom In the Spring.

Alistair McGowan leads an all-star cast of Savoyards in a semi-staged concert performance of Gilbert & Sullivan’s hilarious masterpiece. Set in the land of Titipu, poking delicious fun at politics and politicians, the bountiful score with its witty lyrics is full of toe-tapping melodies.

£12, £16, £21.50, £25.50, £29.50, £34.50

johann stRauss galasatuRday 1 januaRy, 3PM

Johann Strauss Orchestra Directed from the violin in the traditional Viennese manner by David JuritzAmy Freston sopranoJohann Strauss DancersChristopher Hampson Choreography & Staging

Tritsch Tratsch Polka, The Blue Danube Waltz, Emperor Waltz, Auf der Jagd, Pizzicato Polka Radetzky March, Cuckoo Polka, Thunder and Lightning Polka, The Laughing Song from Die Fledermaus, Tales from the Vienna Woods.

Waltz back in time to the glittering ballrooms of 19th-century Vienna with an enchanting mix of music, song and dance from the Strauss Family and Friends.

£12.50, £16.50, £20, £25, £30, £35

new yeaR’s eve gala fRiday 31 deceMbeR, 3PM & 9.30PM

London Concert OrchestraAnthony Inglis conductorJohn Hudson tenorRichard Morrison baritone

Plus Proms favourites including: Rule! Britannia, Pomp and Circumstance, Land of Hope and Glory, Nessun Dorma.

Start your New Year’s revelry early at the matinee, a superb concert of timeless classics to welcome in 2011.

3pm £10.50, £14.50, £19.50, £24.50, £29.50, £35

9.30pm £17.50, £24.50, £29.50, £34.50, £39.50, £43.50

Suppé Light Cavalry OvertureSousa Stars and StripesElgar NimrodTchaikovsky Swan Lake Finale

Strauss Blue Danube WaltzBizet Duet from The Pearl FishersRavel BoleroDenza Funiculi, funicula

JanUaRY

24 JanUaRY Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 25 www.twitter.com/THSHBirmingham

www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall2525JanUaRY

iRina kolesnikova withst PeteRsbuRg ballet theatRe - the nutcRackeRsatuRday 8 januaRy, 7.30PM sunday 9 januaRy, 2.30PM & 7.30PM

This talented young company from St Petersburg is acknowledged as one of the few genuine Russian companies visiting the United Kingdom and features Prima Ballerina Irina Kolesnikova.

This is a company you will see on some of the world's most prestigious stages with productions boasting sumptuous set designs, opulent costumes, and authentic choreography in this timeless classical ballet.

£18, £25, £30, £35, £40Under 14s half price tickets when purchased with an adult ticket.

lunchtiMe oRgan conceRtMonday 10 januaRy, 1PM

Thomas Trotter organ

JS Bach Toccata & Fugue in D minor (Dorian) BWV 538Anon Three Pieces from the Susanne van Soldt ManuscriptJC Bach Concerto No 6 in G, Op 1 Bingham Ancient SunlightSaint-Saëns Prelude & Fugue in B

Fantaisie in E fl at£6Unreserved seating.Discounts available, please check when booking.

nelsons conducts stRauss thuRsday 13 januaRy, 7.30PM

City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraAndris Nelsons conductorGautier Capuçon cello

Beethoven Egmont Overture 8’Shostakovich Cello Concerto No 1 28’Strauss Ein Heldenleben 46’

Ein Heldenleben (A Hero’s Life) is a fl amboyant self-portrait, and one of the all-time great orchestral showpieces. Andris Nelsons and the CBSO’s recording of it won worldwide acclaim. Don’t miss this chance to hear why, and to hear a brilliant French cellist in a very different musical autobiography from Shostakovich.


the austRalian classic Rock showsatuRday 15 januaRy, 8PM

A winning formula of impeccable musicianship matched with a spectacular sound and lights show, animations and a sprinkle of Aussie humour. This is a classic rock fan’s ultimate live juke box!

The show features a special anthem-by-anthem climax, including tracks by Supertramp, Dire Straits, Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, Steely Dan, Genesis, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Who.

£27.50No support.

25252525252525JanUaRY

(A Hero’s Life) is a fl amboyant self-portrait, and one of the all-time great orchestral showpieces. Andris Nelsons and the CBSO’s recording of it won worldwide acclaim. Don’t miss this chance to hear why, and to hear a brilliant French cellist in a very different


andReas scholl sings PuRcell sunday 16 januaRy, 3PM

Andreas Scholl countertenorAccademia BizantinaStefano Montanari conductor

Music by Purcell, including Sweeter than Roses, Music for a While, Evening Hymn and Airs and Dances from King Arthur.

Andreas Scholl is one of the most sought-after of singers, with a powerful countertenor voice of the purest gold. At the Last Night of the Proms in 2005, Richard Morrison wrote in The Times, ‘during his three Handel arias some 6,000 people scarcely dared breathe … I would have backed him to have walked on water.’ Don’t miss this afternoon recital of some of Purcell’s most attractive music.

£5, £7.50, £17.50, £27.50, £40Discounts available, please check when booking.

sing live: sing the Music of the Movie Musicalssunday 16 januaRy, 7.30PM

The massed voices of Sing Live are back, bringing you the hits from some of the greatest musicals that have been made into fi lm. From South Pacifi c, Annie Get your Gun and Grease to The Lion King and High School Musical, there is something for the whole family in this not-to-be missed concert.

£15, £21.50 Under 16s £9Discounts available, please check when booking.

haRMonic sPiRitual theatResatuRday 22 januaRy, 7.30PM

Ex Cathedra Choir & ContinuoJeffrey Skidmore conductor

Giacomo Carissimi Jephte Marc-Antoine Charpentier Le reniement de St Pierre

This concert explores the beginnings of oratorio with sumptuous works by Carissimi and Charpentier, a selection of Monteverdi’s madrigals ‘made spiritual’, Bouzignac’s ‘dialogue motets’, and music from Anerio’s Teatro armonico spirituale di madrigali, a collection which lends the concert its name.

£5, £17.50, £25, £35Discounts available, please check when booking.Ex Cathedra is a Town Hall Associate Artist.

holocaust MeMoRial daysunday 23 januaRy, 2PM

Holocaust Memorial Day is the international day of remembrance as designated by the United Nations. It commemorates victims and survivors of the Holocaust and Nazi persecutions, as well as other worldwide genocides.

The ceremony will be inspired by the theme from the Holocaust Memorial Trust for 2010 – Untold Stories.

free event, just turn up on the day.

Pavel haas QuaRtetthuRsday 20 januaRy, 7.30PM

Britten Three Divertimenti 10’Ravel String Quartet 29’Schubert Quartettsatz 10’Dvorák String Quartet, Op 96, American 29’

‘Take note: this is one of the most polished and musically exciting young string quartets in the world today,’ announced The Washington Post last year. Previously heard in the ECHO ‘Rising Stars’ series, Pavel Haas Quartet play the best-loved of Dvorák’s quartets alongside the urbane lyricism of Ravel and pieces by Schubert and Britten.

£5, £7.50, £13.50, £18.50, £25Discounts available, please check when booking.

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Discounts available, please check when booking.


feliX deXteR – MultiPle PeRsonalities in oRdeRthuRsday 27 januaRy, 8PM

Critically acclaimed for his characters and performance on BBC 2’s Bellamy’s People and the star of Radio 4’s Down The Line Felix Dexter is on tour with his new stand-up and character show.

‘Star of the show.’ The Guardian

‘Very impressive.’ Sunday Times

‘Excellent explosive and exhilarating performer.’ The Guardian

‘…wonderfully eccentric characters, lovely performance.’ The Mirror

£16

bRant Piano coMPetition winneR’s RecitalthuRsday 27 januaRy, 1PM

Ji Liu piano

Mozart Rondo in A minor K511 7’Bach Goldberg Variations 50’

This exciting rising star is the youngest ever winner of the Brant Pianoforte Competition, and gave his debut recital at Carnegie Hall aged just 13. Since moving to the UK, Liu has given recitals at many top concert halls.

£7.50Discounts available, please check when booking.

lunchtiMe oRgan conceRtMonday 24 januaRy, 1PM

Thomas Trotter organ

Handel Four Pieces for Mr Clay's Musical ClockMozart Adagio & Allegro K594Haydn Five Pieces for Musical ClockMozart Andante in F K616Beethoven Allegro in G for mechanical clock

Adagio in F for mechanical clockMozart Fantasia K608

Roll out the barrel! A programme of 18th-century music for mechanical organ.

£6Unreserved seating.Discounts available, please check when booking.

sPRing syMPhonythuRsday 27 januaRy, 2.15PM

City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraOlari Elts conductorElspeth Dutch horn

It’s darkest January. But for one afternoon only, it’s spring! Schumann’s Spring symphony is bursting with blossoming melodies and Beethoven’s First Symphony is irresistibly playful. Add Strauss’s First Concerto and the swinging Waltz Scene from his most lively opera, and you've got an afternoon of musical sunshine.

This concert is followed by a Members’ Afternoon Tea, with Olari Elts as guest speaker. Contact Ellie Griffiths on 0121 616 6514.

£9.50, £14, £19, £23, £26, £30, £35Discounts available, please check when booking.

Beethoven Symphony No 1 25’Strauss Horn Concerto No 1 15’Strauss Waltz Scene from Intermezzo 10’Schumann Symphony No 1 Spring 30’

PoRt isaac's fisheRMan's fRiendstuesday 25 januaRy, 7.30PM

Plus support

The Fisherman’s Friends bring their powerful brand of Cornish harmony singing from the tiny fishing village of Port Isaac to Town Hall. Each member of this unique group are or have been fishermen, lifeboat men and coastguards in Port Isaac and recreate the authentic sound of the sea with songs and shanties with a good deal of bonhomie.

£17.50By arrangement with Neil O'Brien Entertainment.

30 JanUaRY Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 31 www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall www.twitter.com/THSHBirmingham 31www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall www.twitter.com/THSHBirmingham

coMing soon

black dyke band sunday 6 febRuaRy £13.50

Punt & dennis: they should get out MoRe wednesday 9 febRuaRy £19.50

john shuttlewoRth – a Man with no MoRe Rolls thuRsday 10 febRuaRy £15

elkie bRooks – live in conceRt satuRday 12 febRuaRy £22.50

anton & eRin – Putting on the Ritz satuRday 12 febRuaRy £15.50 - £39.50

saRah Millican – chatteRboX fRiday 25 febRuaRy £15

the dublineRs thuRsday 17 MaRch £22.50

kate Rusby fRiday 18 MaRch £22

oRQuesta buena vista club - featuRing oMaRa PoRtuondo tuesday 5 aPRil £28.50 - £32.50

chRis de buRgh - Moonfleet touR fRiday 15 aPRil & satuRday 16 aPRil £37.50 - £60

stRavinsky's Rite of sPRing - 3d PeRfoRMance thuRsday 21 aPRil £5 – £22.50

Michael ball fRiday 10 june £32.50 - £36

tRansatlantic sessionssunday 30 januaRy, 7.30PM

Long established among the jewels in the crown of Glasgow’s Celtic Connections festival, and fresh from the success of last year’s sold out concert Transatlantic Sessions returns. It continues to revisit shared roots and forge new common ground between today's fi nest Celtic and Americana musicians, led by supreme traditional style fi ddler Aly Bain and dobro legend Jerry Douglas.

£25.50

gyles bRandReth – the one to one showsatuRday 29 januaRy, 8PM

They say all political careers end in tears. In Gyles Brandreth’s case it’s tears of laughter as the actor, author, One Show reporter, former MP and government whip turns stand-up. Just a Minute regular Gyles delivers a dazzling evening of wit, wordplay and hilarious name-dropping.

‘Incredibly funny, wildly indiscreet.’ Daily Mail

‘Brilliant. A serious talent for making people laugh.’ Daily Mirror

£16

fRiday night classics: definitive divasfRiday 28 januaRy, 7.30PM

City of Birmingham Symphony OrchesraGareth Hudson conductorMary Carewe vocalistGrainne Renihan vocalistEmer McParland vocalist

Including: River Deep, Mountain High, Don't Rain on my Parade, Cabaret Memory, The Trolley Song, My Heart Will Go On, Diamonds are Forever, Every Time We Say Goodbye, I Will Survive and lots more!

Big stars demand big tunes! Join us for a celebration of divas through the decades, from Judy Garland to Whitney Houston, Ella Fitzgerald to Tina Turner. Expect an unforgettable night of irresistible music.

£9.50, £17, £23.50, £29.50, £33.50, £37.50, £39.50Discounts available, please check when booking.

32 JanUaRY Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk 33Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk32

featuRing andy haMilton and the blue notes

free event in symphony hall’s Level 3 Bar

satuRday 15 januaRy 12.30PM – 3.30PM

Relax with Birmingham jazz legend Andy Hamilton as he brings you the fi nest in jazz together with his band The Blue Notes.

‘Sumptuous, sensuous, gifted… Hamilton’s sound is irresistible.’ The Guardian

Supported by Arts Council England.

*Please note the December Sax In The City is in collaboration with Rush Hour Blues on Friday 17 December.

saX in the city

Rush houR bluesfriday 5.30pm, symphony hall, Level 3 Bar After a long week at work come along and unwind in the intimate, relaxing atmosphere of Symphony Hall’s Level 3 Bar and let the sensational sounds of Rush Hour Blues help you fi nd that Friday feeling. It’s all free – and you deserve it!

‘It’s free and it really is the place to be.’ Birmingham PostPresented in association with Birmingham Jazz.

3 deceMbeR

caRol bRewsteR and band

10 deceMbeR

saM cRowe Quintet

17 deceMbeR

andy haMilton & the blue notes featuRing Patsy fulleRChristmas Special presented in associationwith Sax in the City.

7 januaRy

bRyan coRbett QuaRtet

14 januaRy

walsall jazz oRchestRa

21 januaRy

chRis biscoe PRofiles QuaRtet

fRiday 28 januaRy

olivia MooRe & unfuRl

fREE JaZZ

fRee events in syMPhony hall's level 3 baR Mid-day Mantra is a free monthly series presenting music to uplift the spirit on Saturday lunchtime. Escape the hurly-burly, as once a month we present outstanding Asian artists from the UK and the Indian subcontinent in relaxed, informal sessions.

utsav lal satuRday 11 deceMbeR, 1PM – 2.30PM

At only 17 years old, Utsav Lal has received critical acclaim for his unique playing style, earning him the title of ‘raga pianist’. The young star transcends international boundaries, unfolding the notes of the raga to create a spellbinding musical experience.

global folk satuRday 22 januaRy, 1PM – 2.30PM

Global folk, led by tabla and percussion maestro Mendi, is a dynamic and powerful sound of musical cultures from around the world, emerging together in harmony.

free EventsPresented in association with sampad. The Mid-day Mantra series is supported by Arts Council England and Coutts Charitable Trust.

The next event is on 12 February.

Presented in association with sampad. The Mid-day Mantra series is supported Presented in association with sampad. The Mid-day Mantra series is supported

Global folk, led by tabla and percussion maestro Mendi, is a dynamic and powerful sound of musical cultures from around Global folk, led by tabla and percussion maestro Mendi, is a dynamic and powerful sound of musical cultures from around

At only 17 years old, Utsav Lal has received critical acclaim for his unique playing style, earning him the title of ‘raga pianist’. The young star transcends international boundaries, unfolding his unique playing style, earning him the title of ‘raga pianist’. The young star transcends international boundaries, unfolding the notes of the raga to create a spellbinding musical experience.

his unique playing style, earning him the title of ‘raga pianist’. At only 17 years old, Utsav Lal has received critical acclaim for his unique playing style, earning him the title of ‘raga pianist’. The young star transcends international boundaries, unfolding the notes of the raga to create a spellbinding musical experience.

UK and the Indian subcontinent in relaxed, informal sessions.as once a month we present outstanding Asian artists from the UK and the Indian subcontinent in relaxed, informal sessions.

uplift the spirit on Saturday lunchtime. Escape the hurly-burly, as once a month we present outstanding Asian artists from the

fRee events in syMPhony hall's level 3 baR Mid-day Mantra is a free monthly series presenting music to uplift the spirit on Saturday lunchtime. Escape the hurly-burly, as once a month we present outstanding Asian artists from the

Global folk, led by tabla and percussion maestro Mendi, is a dynamic and powerful sound of musical cultures from around

Presented in association with sampad. The Mid-day Mantra series is supported

At only 17 years old, Utsav Lal has received critical acclaim for his unique playing style, earning him the title of ‘raga pianist’. The young star transcends international boundaries, unfolding the notes of the raga to create a spellbinding musical experience.The young star transcends international boundaries, unfolding the notes of the raga to create a spellbinding musical experience.

awaiting copy for folk4free

fRee events in syMPhony hall's level 3 baR Come and join us after work on a Thursday and enjoy some of the best in contemporary folk music from the Midlands.

fRiends of the staRs thuRsday 16 deceMbeR, 5.30PM – 7PM

Friends of the Stars emerged earlier this century from the fated ashes of John Peel favourites The Toques. Inspired by their accumulatively diverse tastes their sound mixes looping guitar spirals with country ballads. Expect a few surprises too.

Rob fellowsthuRsday 20 januaRy, 5.30PM – 7PM

Multi-instrumentalist Rob Fellows's brand of acoustic mash-ups and collaborations takes hints of infl uence from Thom Yorke and Nirvana, offering something a little different to the traditional singer/songwriter style.

free EventsPresented in association with Moseley Folk Festival.The Folk for Free series is supported by Arts Council England.

The next event is on 24 February.

33 www.twitter.com/THSHBirmingham

www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall

35

MusicLeader West Midlands has now moved to mac! MusicLeader West Midlands is committed to raising the quality, value and impact of music leadership in the region.

How to contact us: TEA

0121 446 [email protected] West Midlands, mac, Birmingham, B12 9QH

Find out how we can support you. Sign up for free at: www.musicleader.net

Photo credit: Dan Brady

Over 10,000 people a year are inspired by the choice of creative opportunities offered by THSH Education & Community department. People of all ages discover the venues and artistic programme by participating in events and projects in family, school and community settings, the state-of-the-art Patrick Music and Multimedia Studio and the halls themselves.

sPotlight on...conceRts inside out

Secondary schools are invited to turn their concert inside out when they book to see a performance by Town Hall Associate Artists; Soweto Kinch, BBC Big Band, Black Voices, Ex Cathedra and Orchestra of the Swan. This programme is aimed at enhancing the experience for young people attending concerts at Town Hall through opportunities to attend open rehearsals, participate in complementary workshops and masterclasses, purchase subsidised tickets, view technical set up of concerts and meet the artists.

EDUCaTion & CoMMUniTY

35Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk

37 www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall www.twitter.com/THSHBirmingham

booking infoRMationhow to book

A £2 fee per transaction will be charged on all bookings except purchases made in person at Town Hall or Symphony Hall Box Office.

onlinewww.thsh.co.uk

by Phone0121 780 3333.

in PeRsonSymphony Hall Box Office, in the ICC, is open 10am–6pm (Monday - Saturday) and 12pm–4pm (Sunday).

Town Hall Box Office, in Victoria Square, is open 11am–5pm (Monday - Saturday) and 12pm–4pm (Sunday).

Opening hours may be extended on concert days.

discounts

Discounts vary from concert to concert and are subject to availability. For selected concerts discounts are available for students and under 25s, families, over 60s, benefit recipients, wheelchair users and disabled patrons, concert package bookers and through the Birmingham Passport to Leisure scheme. Please check our website or ask for details when booking.

You can book some discounted tickets online. If you require other reduced price tickets, please contact the Box Office on 0121 780 3333.

gRouPs

Discounts on selected concerts. For further information or to make a booking, phone our Group Booking Department on FREEPHONE 0800 358 7070, open 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

All tickets are offered subject to availability. Proof of eligibility may be required when purchasing/collecting reduced price tickets. Discounts vary per concert, please check with the Box Office.

lost tickets

A charge may be made for printing duplicate tickets.

conceRts by coach

These coach schemes are organised by regular concert–goers.

Telford & Newport: The Newport Music Coach, Anita Davies 01952 813340

Shropshire & Mid Wales: The Concerts Coach, Frank North 01743 790400

South Shropshire: Ludlow & District Theatre & Arts Group, Bronwen Coldwell 01584 831323

Droitwich & Bromsgrove: Bromsgrove Music Tours, Jennie McGregor Smith 01527 872422

Leominster & Hereford: Mary Seldon, 01885 482543. Email: [email protected]

Worcester: Montfort Theatre Goers, Evesham, Mrs D Lambert 01386 761445

data PRotection

Once you have booked tickets for Town Hall or Symphony Hall your contact details will be held and processed on our Box Office database. From time to time we and the artists/performers may send you information about forthcoming events (including the artists’/performers’ events at other venues) using any one of the contact methods you have provided. Other arts organisations and companies carefully selected by Performances Birmingham may also be interested in sending you information on events and products they think will be of interest. If you do not want your details to be passed to another organisation please tell us at the time of booking. (Data Protection Act (1998). Registration No X3281 12 8.)

disclaiMeR

Information and prices in this guide were correct at the time of going to press – please check prior to booking. Unforeseen circumstances, however, may result in changes to the published programme or named artists. The timings given for each piece are for guidance and may vary in performance. Performances Birmingham Limited – a company controlled by Birmingham City Council – is a Registered Charity No. 1053937. Registered in England No. 3169600. Registered Office: Symphony Hall, Broad Street, Birmingham, UK B1 2EA.

Photography: Adrian Burrows (Symphony Hall, Thomas Trotter, Andris Nelsons), Community and Education, Mike Gutteridge (Symphony Hall, Town Hall), Roman Gontcharov (Vladimir Jurowski ), Uli Weber/Deutsche Grammophon (Cecilia Bartoli), Robert Workman/Virgin Classics (Piotr Anderszewski), Eric Larrayadieu (Andreas Scholl), James Ashby (Ex Cathedra), Frazer Ashford (BBC Big Band), Tomaas Volkmann (Olari Elts), John Mackinnon (Transatlantic Sessions). All pianos at Town Hall and Symphony Hall are tuned by John Chapman. T: 07855 397048. Design by Cogent Elliott.

seating Plans

Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk36

Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk38 39 www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall www.twitter.com/THSHBirmingham

syMPhony hall

Cafe Vite is situated in the ICC Mall, open 7 days a week. Opening hours may vary.

Foyer Bars are open an hour before a concert, for the interval and post-concert on Level 3.

town hall

The Coffee Bar is situated in the main foyer open 7 days a week. Opening hours may vary.Free Wi-Fi at Town Hall with any purchase from the Coffee Bar.

Foyer Bars open an hour before a concert, for the interval and post-concert on the Lower and Circle Levels.

e opSituated in the ICC Mall, Symphony Hall Music Shop offers an exceptional range of music and gifts, open 11am to 6pm (Mon – Sat) and late on concert nights. For more information call 0121 200 2382.

dining, dRinking & shoPPing Public touRs syMPhony hall

thuRsday 2 deceMbeR, 11aM

tuesday 7 deceMbeR, 11aM

wednesday 5 januaRy, 11aM

Join our guides on an exciting tour around Symphony Hall, discovering the world-famous acoustics, stunning auditorium, dressing rooms and the magnifi cent Symphony Organ. Lasts approximately 1½ hours.

town hall

wednesday 1 deceMbeR, 11aM

tuesday 14 deceMbeR, 11aM

Monday 17 januaRy, 11aM

Come and discover this Grade 1 listed landmark, learn about performers past and present, fi nd out about the history and how Town Hall has been painstakingly renovated. Lasts approximately 1 hour.

To book call the Box Offi ce on 0121 780 3333.

adults £660plus, full-time students, under-16s, unwaged, disabled patrons £5.

becoMe ouR fRiend

As a Friend of Town Hall and Symphony Hall you will receive exclusive benefi ts. With newsletters, invitations to events, ticket offers, and a Friends Booking Line, this is the perfect opportunity to fi nd out more about our great venues. Your membership also supports the important work undertaken by Town Hall and Symphony Hall, bringing great arts experiences to everyone in our community.

Friends membership can also make the perfect gift for birthdays, anniversaries or to say thank you!

For further information on being our Friend please contact us on 0121 644 5072, or email [email protected]

coRPoRate and PRivate hiRe events

Town Hall and Symphony Hall welcome bookings for private and corporate events. Our two spectacular venues can provide the perfect and unique backdrop for your event. For more information please visit: http://hires.thsh.co.uk email: [email protected] or call us on 0121 644 6053.

Box Office 0121 780 3333 or visit www.thsh.co.uk40 41 www.facebook.com/townhallsymphonyhall www.twitter.com/THSHBirmingham

custoMeRs with Mobility difficulties:

town hall

Please note that there are steps up to the Stalls and Circle but a lift is available. The Stalls have flat access to all seats and generous space between rows. Patrons who need to remain in their wheelchairs during the performance can book spaces in the Stalls and the Side Circle. There are accessible toilets on all levels.

syMPhony hall

All levels are accessible by lift, but there are steps within the auditorium on all levels, including the Stalls – please ask when booking if you need flat access to your seats.

Areas for patrons who need to remain in their wheelchairs during the performance are located in the Stalls (and for classical concerts are

also available in the Upper Circle). There are accessible toilets on Level 3 (Stalls), Level 5 (Upper Circle) and Level 5a (Grand Tier).

deaf and haRd of heaRing custoMeRs:

town hall

The auditorium is equipped with a hearing loop system. Please switch your hearing aid to the T position.

syMPhony hall

The auditorium is equipped with an infrared hearing enhancement system. You need to collect a receiver to use this system. Receivers are available free of charge – please ask a steward.

blind and PaRtially sighted custoMeRs:

town hall & syMPhony hall

Guide dogs are welcome and can remain in the auditorium or be cared for by a steward in the foyer. Please ask if you need any assistance.

PaRking foR blue badge holdeRs:

town hall

There are three spaces directly outside Town Hall (accessed from Paradise Circus). These spaces must be booked in advance by calling the Stage Door on 0121 644 5039. Please have your vehicle registration number and Blue Badge number to hand when you call.

syMPhony hall

The nearest drop-off point is on Cambridge Street. Very limited parking for disabled people driving themselves is available at the ICC, and must be pre-booked by calling the Box Office on 0121 780 4949. Requests for four or more concerts should be put in writing to THSH Box Office, Symphony Hall, Broad St, Birmingham, B1 2EA. Please allow two weeks for a reply.

If you would like more information about parking for Blue Badge holders in Birmingham please call 0121 303 6644.

accessibility

This guide is available free of charge on audiocassette or Braille (on request) from: Rhondda Channell, Sound Services, VISTA, Margaret Rd. (off Gwendolen Rd), Leicester, LE5 5FU. Tel: 0116 249 8841

Email: [email protected] Facilities for Disabled Patrons 0121 780 4949 Minicom Line 0121 644 6140

Performances Birmingham is one of the largest regional arts charities in the country. We invite people to discover great performances at the heart of Birmingham and participate in community arts projects at our two world-famous venues.

Ticket sales alone cannot sustain our programme; we rely on voluntary contributions to enable us to continue and expand our work. We aim to reach even more people within our communities and further develop our wide-ranging programme. We would like to thank all our supporters for their generous contributions to our charitable work over the last year.

donoRs

Alan WoodfieldAnn CopseyBirmingham Decorative & Fine Arts SocietyBlackwell Charitable Trust The Chatwin TrustCoutts Charitable TrustDMC McDonald Foundation, facilitated by the IAO The Garfield Weston FoundationThe George Cadbury TrustThe GNC TrustThe Golsoncott FoundationGrantham Yorke TrustGrimmitt TrustLimoges Trust The 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust The Owen Family TrustThe Patrick TrustPeter & Jane How TrustRotary International in Great Britain and IrelandThe Roughley Trust Tanner Charitable TrustWolfson FoundationOur supporters, volunteers and Friends.

If you are interested in supporting Town Hall and Symphony Hall and would like further information please take a look at our website www.thsh.co.uk/page/support-us/ or contact our Development Team on 0121 644 6026 or 0121 644 5075.

You can also make a donation online or organise your own fundraising event for Town Hall and Symphony Hall through Just Giving http://justgiving.com/performbirmingham For volunteering enquiries, please email [email protected]

ouR PaRtneRs

Rush Hour Blues is presented in association with

BBC Big Band concerts presented in association withCORPORATE SPONSORS

CORPORATE FRIENDS BUSINESS PARTNERS

Sax in the City, Mid-day Mantra and Folk for Free are supported by

thank you to ouR suPPoRteRs

Mid-day Mantra is presented in association with

BBC Music Magazine Classic FM Radio XL

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Symphony Hall is located within the International Convention Centre on Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EA. On entering the Convention Centre through the main entrance on Centenary Square, Symphony Hall foyers are on the left. Town Hall is located in Victoria Square, Birmingham, B3 3DQ.

BY CAR - Car parking for Symphony Hall is available at Brindleyplace, beneath the National Indoor Arena (NIA) and Brindley Drive car parks. Car parking for Town Hall is available at Brindley Drive and Brunel Street car parks. For more information contact The Highways Agency on 08457 504030 or visit their website www.highways.gov.uk/roads or visit Midlands Traffic Information’s website www.help2travel.co.uk

BY RAIL - For rail information contact National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950 or visit their website www.nationalrail.co.uk There are fast and frequent rail services with free parking at many Centro stations. The Centro Hotline 0121 200 2700 (open 7.30am–10.30pm every day) can help you plan your journey.

For further information visit www.thsh.co.uk/page/planning-your-visit

LIONEL S

TREET

L

IONEL S

TREET

SHEEPCOTE ST. BERKLEY STREET

GAS STREET

BR

IDG

E STREET

HO LLID

AY ST

HOLLIDAY ST

HILL STREET HILL STREET HILL STREET

NE

WH

AL

L H

ILL GEORGE S

TREET

CHARLOTTE STREET

FLEET STREET

W AT ERLOO STREETCOLMORE R

OW

TE

MP

LE

ST

CAM BRIDGE STREET

KING EDW A RDS ROAD

NELSON ST

CLEMENT STREET

CAMDEN ST CAMDEN ST ARTHUR PL

CAMDEN DR

CHURCH ST

LIVERY STREET

BARWICK

ST

EDMUND STREET

CORNWALL S

TREET

NEWHALL STREET NEWHALL ST

LEGG

E LANE

POWELL

STREET

EDWARD STREET

SWALLOW ST

HINCKLEY ST

NEW STREET

STEPHENSON ST

NAVIGATION STREET

GRANVILLE STREET

SU

MM

ER

HILL STR

EET

BRUNEL ST

PINFOLD ST

SUMMER ROW

A41 Q

UEENSWAY R

OAD

A456 BROAD S

TREET

A456 BROAD STREET

PARADISE CIRCUS

SANDPITS PARADE A457

A41

SANDPITS PARADE

A41 SUFFOLK QUEENSW

AY RD

PA

RA

DISE C

IRC

US

NIA

THE ICC

BRINDLE

YPLA

CE

NEW STRAIL

STATION

SNOW HILL RAIL STATION

MUSEUMAND ARTGALLERY

P

P

P

P

P

P

P PARADISE

FORUM

VICTORIA SQUARE

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE MAILING SERVICE To keep up-to-date with the latest information from Town Hall and Symphony Hall join our free mailing list.

Email [email protected] with details of your name, address, telephone number(s) and email address or sign up via the website www.thsh.co.uk

To join the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra’s free mailing list please contact the CBSO on 0121 616 6500.

how to Reach us

syMPhony halltown hall

thsh what’s on guide december 2010 & january 2011

Documents

stenhammar symphony

mahler symphony

town hall renovation

ussupporting town hall

symphony halldecember

symphony hall42

notorious hall

red gala concert