Summer loving is here! And we are loving the huge range of musical shows, plays, audio described tours, and outdoor events. The special summer events include the annual walkabout performances in Lancaster’s Williamson Park and Hull’s amazing Freedom Festival over late August Bank Holiday weekend. There’s even a week of specially-commissioned dance performances taking place in the sea at King Edward’s Bay, North Tyneside! All brought to you by our fantastic team of audio describers.
Saturday 6 July 2.30pm
101 DALMATIANS Alexandra Theatre Birmingham
Dodie Smith’s classic canine caper is brought to life on stage with spectacular puppetry, show-stopping choreography, witty songs and irresistible puppies. Book your tickets now - you’d be barking mad to miss it!
Described by Theo Hornsby-Walsh. Theo is also describing 101 Dalmatians at the Palace Theatre Manchester on 8 August at 7.30pm and at Wolverhampton Grand on Saturday 24 August at 2.30pm.
Image: Kym Marsh as Cruella smiles with white teeth and bright red lips, her wild black hair streaked with white. She wears a white fur coat and holds a little dalmatian puppy tightly in her grasp.
Saturday 6 July 2.30pm
EVERYBODY'S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE Bradford Alhambra
Funny, fabulous and feel good, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie features an all-star cast including West End sensation Ivano Turco as Jamie, musical theatre star Rebecca McKinnis as Margaret, Sejal Keshwala as Ray, X Factor winner Sam Bailey as Miss and Everybody’s Talking About Jamie veteran Talia Palamathanan as Pritti.
Described by Paula Cookland Burns
Image: The image shows Jamie head and shoulders in school uniform, collar unbuttoned. He has smooth, brown skin, fully made up with red lips smiling, his heavily shadowed eyes closed, his head turned to the left. Long blonde ringlets cascade over his left shoulder. The strapline below the title reads The Hit Musical For Today.
Tuesday 9 July 7.30pm
WICKED Liverpool Empire
One of the most successful musicals of all time says BBC News. Wicked has been casting its magical spell around the world for two decades. Wicked reimagines the classic Wonderful Wizard of Oz and reveals the decisions and events that shape the destinies of two unlikely friends on their journey to becoming Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. An unforgettable and unmissable experience.
Children under 3 years of age are not permitted.
Described by Anne Hornsby
Image: The image has the Wicked Witch on the left, dressed in black, her green face almost obscured by the brim of her hat. Her red lips are twisted in a smirk. To the right, dressed in white and in profile, Glinda whispers a secret into her ear.
Postponed (Was Saturday 13 July 2pm)
CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG Bradford Alhambra
The most fantasmagorical musical of all time flies into the Alhambra Theatre. Based on Ian Fleming’s timeless story for children and later made into the famous 1968 film. We meet the absent-minded inventor Caractacus Potts (Adam Garcia) who restores a broken-down old racing car with the help of his children Jemima and Jeremy. Soon the family discover the car has magical powers and along with the delectable Truly Scrumptious and Grandma Potts, they end up on a fantastical adventure to faraway lands. Their heart-warming journey makes Chitty Chitty Bang Bang a fun-filled hit for all the family.
Described by Anne Hornsby
Image: A production photograph shows Chitty in flight, chrome gleaming, red and yellow wings spread out, the Potts family in the seats awestruck against the background of a dark starry night.
Saturday 13 July 2.30pm
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST Royal Exchange Manchester
This timeless tale of identity, opulence and sharp-tongued wit follows the lives of the rich and ridiculous, all looking for something to do, someone to love and somewhere to belong. For Jack and Algernon, being young and rich isn’t easy. In fact, being swathed in luxury is depressing. Tired of the never-ending soirees and penthouse shindigs, they escape their anxious existence (and Lady Bracknell) in the pursuit of love, real love, like, proper adult, IRL love, all under the guise of the ever-enigmatic Ernest. But love isn’t as easy as it seems. After all, Cecily and Gwendolen have standards, not to mention a peculiar passion for the name of Ernest.
Described by Theo Hornsby-Walsh
Image: A stylish production photo shows the characters in modern dress on a glossy black square stage surrounded by fluffy pink bean bags. Confetti fills the air as Gwendolen leaps into Jack’s arms, in the background Algernon and Cecily and Dr Chasuble and Miss Prism embrace. Lady Bracknell sits alone on a low sofa.
Saturday 13 July 2.30pm
UNFORTUNATE Wolverhampton Grand
Fresh from complete sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe and around the UK comes this smash-hit parody musical. Things are gonna get wet! Join everyone’s favourite Disney Diva, Ursula (Shawna Hamic) as she gives her take on what really happened all those years ago under the sea. With original hot pop soundtrack and trademark filthy humour, it’s time to take the plunge and dive into this year’s hottest night out. Recommended for 16 plus.
Described by Paula Cookland Burns
Image: The image for Unfortunate has a photo of Shawna as Ursula. She smiles with red lips, her hair spiky, and her ample bosom encased in a basque. She is surrounded by octopus tentacles against a deep purple background.
Wednesday 17 July 7.30pm
& JULIET Opera House Manchester
What if Juliet’s famous ending was really just her beginning? What if she decided to choose her own fate? Join Juliet on this sensational journey of self-discovery and second chances, told through some of the most glittering pop anthems of the last three decades from legendary songwriter Max Martin, including Baby One More Time, Since U Been Gone, Roar, Everybody (Backstreet's Back), Love Me Like You Do and Can’t Feel My Face. A hilariously irreverent new musical that proves when it comes to love, there’s always life after Romeo. Age guidance 6+, no under 5’s will be admitted.
Described by Nicola Williams
Image: The graphic image for & Juliet shows a pair of golden headphones wrapped around a red, glassy heart. On the left is the strapline There’s Life After Romeo.
Wednesday 17 July 7.30pm
PRETTY WOMAN The Musical Regent Theatre Stoke-on-Trent
Make a date to see Hollywood’s ultimate rom-com, live on stage. Once upon a time in the late ’80s, Vivian met Edward and her life changed forever. Be swept up in their romance in this dazzlingly theatrical take on a love story for the ages – and get to know these iconic characters in a whole new way – in a sensational show that took London’s West End by storm, guaranteed to lift your spirits and light up your heart.
Described by Anne Hornsby
Image: The image for Pretty Woman has the title in block capitals in the centre. On the left, the lead actress, wearing a low-cut red silk dress, leans forward. She has red lips and a wisp of brown hair escapes her coiffure. Just behind her, the lead actor stands arms folded, wearing a dinner suit and bow tie, looking admiringly towards her. On the right stands a third actor, looking attentively towards us. He wears a neat, grey three-piece suit and a wide smile.
Thursday 18 July 7.30pm
BRASSED OFF Theatre by the Lake
Brass runs in Shane’s family, and in the midst of yet another cost of living crisis he looks back on the last great battle for the local pit and the defiant glory of Grimley Colliery Band. It’s 1994 and the tight-knit mining community of Grimley, Yorkshire, are fighting to keep their colliery open. Meanwhile, revered band leader, Danny, battles to keep his dispirited band of brass-playing miners together with the dream of qualifying for the National Championships at London’s Albert Hall. When the uncertainty around the pit’s future becomes too much for the band members, loyalty is tested, pressure mounts and the community begins to break apart. With their whole way of life at stake, can the band find a way to play on? This production will feature live brass music from Penrith Town Band to deliver a soul-stirring theatrical experience.
Described by Anne Hornsby
Image: A photographic montage shows Shane, a middle-aged shaven-headed man wearing a shirt, holding his trombone. In the background is a pit-head winding wheel and a nostalgic view of the backyards of terraced houses.
Saturdays 20 July and 10 August 10am and various dates until December
Audio Described tour for BIRDS: BRILLIANT AND BIZARRE exhibition Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London
Tel: 0207 942 5000
Audio Described tours led by Anne Hornsby
Saturday 20 July 2.30pm
THE SYNDICATE Bradford Alhambra
Based on her hit BBC show, The Syndicate is the final new stage play by the legendary Kay Mellor. Starring director Gaynor Faye, Emmerdale’s Samantha Giles and Coronation Street’s Brooke Vincent, The Syndicate follows five supermarket employees whose lottery syndicate numbers come in, just as their jobs and livelihoods are under threat. Will a share of the jackpot make their dreams come true or their nightmares a reality? One thing’s for certain, it will change the lives, loves and relationships of all the syndicate members… forever.
Described by Theo Hornsby-Walsh
Image: The image for The Syndicate has a photo of its three stars. Samantha looks nervous as she clutches her lottery ticket. Gaynor smiles confidently. Brooke stands sullen or sceptical, arms folded. The background is a blurry composition of gold and moving lottery balls.
Wednesday 24 July 7.30pm
HAIRSPRAY Palace Theatre Manchester
This feel-good classic is back. Join big hearted Tracy Turnblad and her new friends the spirited Seaweed and his sister Little Inez, heartthrob Link Larkin and the resolute Motormouth Maybelle as they strive to change the world. This fun-filled show is bursting with show-stopping numbers and dizzying dance routines, come and join the beat because just to sit still would be a crime!
Described by Anne Hornsby
Image: The image has the show title Hairspray in cut-out, pastel coloured letters. On the left is a pink-lipped, open-mouthed female face with fifties-style curled bob, blue with a pink bow.
Wednesday 24 July 8pm
SISTERS OF MERSEY Royal Court Liverpool
Sister Petra and Sister Fionola have grown up in St Elmo’s Convent in Dingle as identical twins but Monsignor Michael has some shocking news for them. They are not twins at all! If you look closely you can tell because they look completely different. The Sisters decide to change the habit of a lifetime and escape from the convent to discover what happened to their real families. When they get out into 1980s Liverpool they find themselves locked into a battle with a wicked gangster, trapped in an improbable heist and trying to pinch a nudey statue to fill a gaping hole in the Monsignor’s apse. So squeeze into your best wimple and get down to the Court for a brand new comedy that is second to nun!
16+ Stong language throughout.
Described by Faith Agaba
Image: In the picture, a big-boned nun stands hands clasped with a smaller nun leaning against her. Both smile sweetly. In the background is a the run-down, graffiti-covered entrance to an ecclesiastical building.
Friday 19 July – Sun 25 August nightly 7.15pm not Mondays
Recorded audio introduction to ALICE IN WONDERLAND presented by The Dukes outdoors in Williamson Park, Lancaster
Step into the world of Alice in Wonderland – an immersive theatrical experience that will transport you to a wonderland like no other, where the only limit is your imagination. Join us on a kaleidoscopic journey through the magical landscapes of Williamson Park, where every step is a dance with the extraordinary. Don't miss your chance to be part of this mad-cap family adventure! Grab your tickets now and let the madness begin.
Recorded audio introduction by Anne Hornsby
Image: Image shows an illustration of Alice, a young woman in blue dress with white apron and stripy socks, falling backwards limbs akimbo in a vortex of swirling pastel colours with playing cards and toadstools. Above is the show title and the strapline Marvellous Madness Awaits.
Saturday 3 August 2.30pm
GREASE Bradford Alhambra
The world’s best-loved musical is back! Grittier and more glamorous than ever before. After a whirlwind summer romance, leather-clad greaser Danny and girl-next-door Sandy are unexpectedly reunited when she transfers to Rydell High for senior year. But can they survive the trials and tribulations of teenage life and find true love once more? With its phenomenal score, bursting with hits including Summer Nights, Greased Lightning, Hopelessly Devoted To You and You’re The One That I Want, this thrilling new version is brought to life by a fresh young cast who bring energy, vitality and passion to this ultimate musical classic.
Described by Paula Cookland Burns
Image: A production photo shows the full cast onstage mid musical number. They are a mixture of young men, Danny and his gang in black motorcycle jackets and jeans, others in chinos and casual shirts. The women mostly wear 50s style casual clothes, Frenchie’s gang with pink western-style jackets.
Saturday 3 August 2.30pm
THE WIZARD OF OZ Wolverhampton Grand
Starring RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner and Dancing On Ice star The Vivienne as The Wicked Witch Of The West, this spectacular production will be truly magical for all the family. Featuring the iconic original score from the Oscar-winning MGM film including Over The Rainbow, Follow The Yellow Brick Road and We’re Off To See The Wizard with additional songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Join Dorothy, Toto, and friends on an unforgettable adventure down the yellow brick road to the merry old land of Oz.
Described by Theo Hornsby-Walsh
Image: The Vivienne with stylish fedora hat, red locks and black cape poses quizzically as the Wicked Witch, chin on gloved hand. To the right is The Wizard Of in block gold letters and Oz in sparkly rainbow colours and above her reads The Vivienne The Wicked Witch of the West.
Thursday 15 August Time tbc Saturday 17 August Time tbc
Audio Described tours for SWEET DREAMS Factory International at Aviva Studios
A new immersive adventure served up this summer by award-winning artist collective Marshmallow Laser Feast. Delicious lies within...
Sweet Dreams is an immersive experience that invites you to explore our place in the food chain. Enter the world of has-been fast-food empire The Real Good Chicken Company and meet Chicky Ricky, their mascot grappling with an uncertain future. This surreal pop package blends motion graphics, gaming and cinema to whip up playful food for thought. Created by Marshmallow Laser Feast, this multi-sensory experience takes over Aviva Studios for Summer 2024. Cooked up in collaboration with award-winning writer and former chef Simon Wroe, and with illustrations and art direction by French artist mcbess, it’s a perfect recipe.
Tours led by Anne Hornsby
Image: The illustration shows cartoon character Chicky Ricky, a chicken character and his colleagues in the red-tiled fast food outlet. Ricky wears a blue shirt and holds a bucket of nuggets under one wing. A boss male figure in trousers and shirt has a rolodex for a head and smokes a cigar. A young waitress with pigtails and a cheeky little ice-cream character complete the team.
Monday 19 August 11am
Audio Described tour for BRASS ART: ROCK QUIVER AND BEND
A mesmeric exhibition of new work by Brass Art, (Chara Lewis, Kristin Mojsiewicz and Anneke Pettican), bringing together immersive video, sculpture and lens-based media. The work explores how light transforms materials through the use of analogue, digital and laser-based forms of capture. In this exhibition, light will digitally rake through the house, garden and writing room of Virginia Woolf, it will transform suspended silver landscapes, and illuminate portraits of the artists disguised in cellophane.
Audio Described tour led by Anne Hornsby
Friday 23 – Sunday 25 August all day
THE HATCHLING Wakefield Town Centre
Details to be confirmed
Week commencing 26 August
Company of Others presents GRIEF FLOATS King Edwards Bay, North Tyneside
The return of this unique performance of dancers in the North Sea. Grief Floats is a gentle protest, an act of remembering, and an offer of a moment of communal reflection on all we have lost and are losing, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the North Sea. By booking you secure a wireless headset which is highly recommended to ensure you are fully immersed in the experience, all you have to do is present your ticket to a member of Company of Others staff to claim your headsets, and return them when the show is over.
Booking details: 0191 276 1524
Described by Anne Hornsby
Wednesday 28 August to Sunday 1 September various times
FREEDOM FESTIVAL HULL Town centre and various locations
Join the Freedom Festival, an annual programme of extraordinary artistic events, lights shows and performances in public spaces, outdoor and indoor, rooted in the thematic exploration of democracy, freedom and human rights.
Tickets: tickets@freedomfestival.co.uk
Described by Michael Hurst
Image: Photograph shows an atmospheric street scene at night, glowing winged creatures on long stalks soar above the audiences’ heads as a procession passes down the middle of the street.
Thursday 29 August 7.30pm
THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES Theatre by the Lake Keswick
The world’s most famous detective gets a hilarious makeover in this spectacularly theatrical comedy. A terrible murder, a terrifying family curse, a killer on the loose and a gigantic beast on the moor; this sounds like a case for Sherlock Holmes! Can the great detective and his faithful companion Dr Watson unravel the mystery surrounding Sir Charles Baskerville’s death and save the life of the last remaining Baskerville, Sir Henry, before it’s too late!?
Described by Anne Hornsby
Image: The image is a montage of photos of the actors, one man wears a deerstalker hat and smokes a large pipe, a woman has a waxed moustache. In the background are various atmospheric photos of trees and clouds at night.
Friday 30 August 7.30pm
DISNEY’S ALADDIN Bradford Alhambra
In an exotic, faraway land, one young pauper's life is about to change with the luck of an ancient lamp - and you're invited to join this magic carpet ride as it embarks on its first UK tour. Featuring the same unforgettable music as the film features all your favourite songs from the film including A Whole New World, Friend Like Me and One Jump! - as well as some brand new numbers.
Described by Theo Hornsby-Walsh
Theo will also be describing Disney’s Aladdin on 2nd January 2025 at Liverpool Empire.
Image: The image for Aladdin is a blue and purple toned illustration with the towering minarets of a palace and palm trees in the background. Close up, to the left is a glistening gold oil lamp and to the right the show title in iconic curvy script. Above is the banner title Escape To A Whole New World.
We look forward to welcoming you to a show or event soon!
