Number 8 Winter 2016/17 · Number 8 Winter 2016/17 ... Miss Saigon, Jersey Boys, Blood Brothers, Mary Poppins and of course the ever popular ... choreography and libretto by Yuri

Number 8

Winter 2016/17

As we approach the festive season there’s plenty to celebrate. Firstly I

would like to congratulate Judy Megarry, a founder member of PODS our

resident amateur company, who has been awarded a British Empire

Medal for services to community music in Pershore. Judy is directing the

pantomime Cinderella, one of the highlights of the winter season.

You may notice that we are opening on some Wednesday evenings this

season. These extra evening screenings are one of the many ways we

are increasing what we offer. We are always looking to improve and I am

excited to announce that plans are afoot for a foyer facelift next summer.

There are various fundraising activities in the pipeline so keep a look out

for details of new ventures.

All of our activities depend on the efforts of volunteers. I would like to

take this opportunity to thank them all for their energy and ongoing

commitment to maintaining excellent standards across the organisation.

With best wishes to volunteers, Friends of Number 8 and customers.

Andy Smart, Chair of Trustees

EVENTS

PODS presents

Cinderella

Pershore Operatic and Dramatic Society invite you and the whole family

to the most perfect pantomime of all - Cinderella. Bring together two ugly

sisters, an evil Baroness, the brotherly Buttons, a Prince and his cockney

manservant, a fairy godmother, the stroke of midnight, the glass slipper,

the carriage, and the rest, as they say is fairy tale history.

PODS are delighted to be joined by some of the children from PODS’

youth section to bring you a show-stopping pantomime, full of fun and

laughter, fabulous music, huge production numbers and even some tap

dancing! Don’t miss this sparkling start to your Christmas season.

Monday 5 - Friday 9 December, 7.30pm;

Saturday 10 December - 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Tickets: Mon £11, Tues - Thu £13, Fri & Sat eve £15, Sat mat £11

The People’s Theatre Company presents

Santa in Love

By Steven Lee

Have you ever wanted to know a secret? A Christmas secret!

Maybe you’d like to know where the fairy on top of the Christmas tree

comes from? Or maybe you’d like to know the greatest secret of them

all... the one about Santa Claus and the thing he secretly loves best.

Could it be presents? Could it be reindeer? You’ll never guess. So if you

want to find out then join Santa and his friends in this fun-filled family

musical complete with games, giggles and all your favourite Christmas

songs.

Santa will be available after the show to meet your little ones and give

them a present, so don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the

smiles!

Suitable for age 2+

Tuesday 13 December - 4.00pm

Tickets: £8.50 (inc present for each child)

1hr

National Theatre Live:

No Man’s Land

Live from Wyndham’s Theatre, London

Following a hit run on Broadway, Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart return

to the West End stage in this glorious revival of Harold Pinter’s No Man's

Land.

One summer's evening, two ageing writers, Hirst and Spooner, meet in a

Hampstead pub and continue their drinking into the night at Hirst's stately

house nearby. As the pair become increasingly inebriated, and their

stories increasingly unbelievable, the lively conversation soon turns into a

revealing power game, further complicated by the return home of two

sinister younger men.

The play will be followed by an exclusive Q&A with the cast and director

Sean Mathias.

Thursday 15 December - 7.00pm; Encore: Saturday 17 December -

2.00pm

Tickets: £15, Students £10

2hrs 30mins (inc interval), cert 15

The Nutcracker

Recorded at the Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow

On Christmas Eve, Marie’s wooden nutcracker doll is transformed into a

handsome Prince who takes her on a magical journey. But, before they

leave, they must confront the Mouse King and his army…

Christmas would not be complete without the enchanting tale of young

Marie and her Nutcracker Prince! Danced by the Bolshoi’s principals,

Russian ballet master Yuri Grigorovich’s staging of E. T. A. Hoffmann’s

fairy tale will transport children and adults alike to a world of festive magic

and wonder.

With Anna Nikulina as Marie, Denis Rodkin as the Nutcracker Prince,

Andrei Merkuriev as Drosselmeyer and Vitaly Biktimirov as the Mouse

King.

Sunday 18 December - 3.00pm

Tickets: £16, 16 & under £10

2hrs 15mins (inc interval)

London Military Band presents

Christmas Fantasia

Hosted by Iolo Williams

Allan Shellard, former musician from the Grenadier Guards, conducts the

London Military Band in this spectacular traditional Christmas concert for

all the family. A unique wind ensemble made up of off-duty professional

serving military musicians, the band will take to the stage in stunning

reproductions of Grenadier costumes as worn between 1860 and 1945, to

recreate the traditional military band experience of the past. Programme

highlights include Sleigh Ride, I’m Walking in the Air and Bread of

Heaven.

Presented by popular TV wildlife personality Iolo Williams.

Brought to you by All Electric Productions.

Thursday 22 December - 7.30pm

Tickets: £22, 16 & under £10

2hrs (inc interval)

Berliner Philharmoniker Live:

The New Year's Eve Concert

Live from the Philharmonie, Berlin

Celebrate the turn of the year with the Berliner Philharmoniker conducted

by Sir Simon Rattle at this festive concert. Before the champagne corks

pop, you can experience first-class virtuosic piano playing from Daniil

Trifonov, one of the most technically formidable pianists of the younger

generation, in a sparkling programme that features Rachmaninov’s Piano

Concerto No. 3 in D minor by Rachmaninov, Façade by William Walton, a

selection of Slavonic Dances by Antonin Dvořák and the overture to

Colas Breugnon by Kabelevsky.

Broadcast in HD with stunning 5.1 surround sound, the concert also

includes exclusive interviews and programme insights.

Join us after the event to raise a toast to the approaching New Year.

Saturday 31 December - 4.00pm

Tickets: £15, Friends £14 (includes glass of fizz)

2hrs

The Tempest

Live from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford

Simon Russell Beale returns to the RSC after twenty years to play

Prospero in this groundbreaking production directed by Artistic Director

Gregory Doran.

Robbed of his position, power and wealth Prospero has been left in

isolation on an island. No ordinary man, Prospero is a magician. Creating

a vast magical storm Prospero wrecks the ship carrying the men who

wronged him. Washed ashore the men wake to find themselves on an

island where nothing is as it seems …

In collaboration with Intel and in association with The Imaginarium

Studios the production uses advanced technology to boldly reimagine

Shakespeare’s magical play, creating an unforgettable theatrical

experience.

Wednesday 11 January - 7.00pm

Tickets: £14, Students £10

Cert 12A

Miss Saigon: 25th

Anniversary Performance

Recorded at the Prince Edward Theatre, London

Following a sell-out in the autumn the spectacular 25th anniversary gala

performance of this legendary West End musical returns for one more

night.

Miss Saigon tells the tragic tale of the young bar girl Kim, orphaned by

war, who falls in love with an American G.I. only to have their lives torn

apart by the fall of Saigon. With appearances by the original cast

including Jonathan Pryce and Lea Salonga.

Saturday 14 January - 7.00pm

Tickets: £13

3hrs 15mins (inc interval), cert 15

The Sleeping Beauty

Live from the Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow

On her 16th birthday, a curse by the evil Carabosse causes the beautiful

Princess Aurora to fall into a deep slumber for 100 years. Only the kiss of

a prince can awaken her…

In this resplendent and magical classic, the Bolshoi dancers take us on a

dreamlike journey through the famous fairy tale, complete with jewel

fairies, a magical kingdom, a youthful princess and a handsome prince. In

the purest style of classical ballet, the Bolshoi’s sumptuous staging with

luxurious sets and costumes brings Perrault’s tale to life. A must-see!

With music by Tchaikovsky, choreography by Yuri Grigorovich and libretto

by Ivan Vsevolozhsky and Marius Petipa (after Charles Perrault). Danced

by the Bolshoi Principals, Soloists and Corps De Ballet.

Sunday 22 January - 3.00pm

Tickets: £16, Friends £15, 16 & under £10

2hrs 50mins (inc interval)

The WestEnders presents

The World’s Most Popular Musicals

The WestEnders return to Number 8 bringing you a night of West End

entertainment in your local theatre.

Hear all of your favourites from iconic shows - Phantom of the Opera,

Mama Mia, Lion King, Miss Saigon, Jersey Boys, Blood Brothers, Mary

Poppins and of course the ever popular… Les Miserables.

The company are all past members of the London production of Les

Miserables and between them have over 35 top West End shows to their

credits. Firmly established as one of the country’s leading musical theatre

groups this is their fifth UK tour as one of the most popular musicals

tribute shows on the circuit.

Hear the passion, hear the music, hear the people sing!

Saturday 28 January - 7.30pm

Tickets: £16

2hrs (inc interval)

Il Trovatore

Live from the Royal Opera House, London

International superstars Dmitri Hvorostovsky, Anita Rachvelishvili, Lianna

Haroutounian and Gregory Kunde lead a superb cast of world-class

singers in this Verdi classic. New for the ROH 2015/16 Season, this

atmospheric staging by director David Bösch sets the story of passion,

love and vengeneance against the backdrop of war.

Fire and snow in the landscape echo the cruelty and love of the story:

soldiers and gypsies clash, a mother reveals a terrible secret and two

men fight for one woman. The famous Anvil Chorus is just one of the

highlights of Verdi’s exceptional music, which captures the shifting

emotions of the drama through impassioned love duets, fiery solos and

stirring choruses.

Tuesday 31 January - 7.15pm

Tickets: £15, 16 & under £10

3hrs 15mins (inc interval)

National Theatre Live:

Amadeus

Live from the National Theatre, London

Music. Power. Jealousy. Lucian Msamati (Luther, Game of Thrones, NT

Live: The Comedy of Errors) plays Salieri in Peter Shaffer’s iconic play,

broadcast with live orchestral accompaniment by Southbank Sinfonia.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, a rowdy young prodigy, arrives in Vienna, the

music capital of the world, determined to make a splash. Awestruck by his

genius, court composer Antonio Salieri has the power to promote his

talent or destroy his name. Seized by obsessive jealousy he begins a war

with Mozart, with music, and ultimately, with God.

After winning multiple Olivier and Tony Awards at the National Theatre in

1979, Amadeus was adapted into an Academy Award-winning film.

Thursday 2 February - 7.00pm; Encore: Saturday 4 February -

2.00pm

Tickets: £15, Students £10

3hrs 30mins (inc interval), cert 12A

Swan Lake

Recorded at the Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow

By moonlight on the shore of a mysterious lake, Prince Siegfried meets

the bewitched swan-woman Odette. Completely spellbound by her

beauty, he swears his love to her. However, the Prince realises too late

that Fate has another plan for him…

A ballet of ultimate beauty, and a score of unparalleled perfection, born at

the Bolshoi in 1877. In the dual role of the white swan Odette and her

rival black swan Odile, prima ballerina Svetlana Zakharova exudes both

vulnerability and cunning through superb technical mastery, alongside

Denis Rodkin as a powerful and emotional Siegfried. Including

breathtaking scenes with the Bolshoi’s corps de ballet, this is classical

ballet at its finest.

Music by Tchaikovsky, choreography and libretto by Yuri Grigorovich.

Sunday 5 February - 3.00pm

Tickets: £16, 16 & under £10

3hrs (inc interval)

National Theatre Live:

Saint Joan

Live from the Donmar Warehouse, London

Gemma Arterton takes the lead as Joan of Arc in this electrifying

production of Bernard Shaw’s classic play following the life and trial of a

young country girl who declares a bloody mission to drive the English

from France. As one of the first Protestants and nationalists, Joan

threatens the very fabric of the feudal society and the Catholic Church

across Europe.

Directed by Josie Rourke (Coriolanus, Les Liaisons Dangereuses).

Thursday 16 February - 7.00pm

Tickets: £15, Friends £14, Students £10

4hrs (inc interval), cert 12A

Orchestra of the Swan presents

Magical Mozart

Mozart Eine Kleine Nachtmusik K525

Mozart Concerto for Flute & Harp in C K299

Mozart Symphony no29 in A K201

Diane Clark flute

Anthony Negus conductor

A divine evening of Mozart with the sophisticated Eine Kleine Nachtmusik

followed by a delightful and masterful example of ‘French salon’ music,

designed to please and charm Parisian 18th century aristocracy. The

programme ends with one of Mozart’s youthful masterpieces composed

at the age of seventeen.

The first in a series of three concerts at Number 8 (see p.14).

Friday 17 February - 7.30pm Pre-concert talk 6.45pm

Tickets: £15.50 (buy all 3 and save 20%)

1hr 45mins (inc interval)

The People’s Theatre Company presents

Don’t Dribble on the Dragon

By Steven Lee

Tom is a toddler with a cool older brother, a secret dragon… and a

dribbling problem that just won’t stop! When Tom's endless drooling

threatens to tear the brothers' friendship apart will their dragon's amazing

magic help them or just make things worse?

Based on the fabulous book by Steven Lee and with magic designed by

the legendary Paul Daniels, this spectacular musical adventure is the

perfect feel good show for big-hearted adults and loving little ones alike.

As an extra treat, Steven will be available to sign copies of Don’t Dribble

on the Dragon which you can bring with you or buy after the show.

Directed by Nick Lane. Designed by Mike Lees. Suitable for ages 2 -102

Tuesday 21 February - 2.30pm

Tickets: £8.50, 16 & under £7

1hr

PODYS presents

Little Shop of Horrors

Pershore Operatic and Dramatic Youth Section bring you Little Shop of

Horrors with book and lyrics by Howard Ashman and music by Alan

Menken.

Let us transport you back to the 1960s and downtown New York city

where a nerdy florist becomes an overnight sensation when he discovers

a strange and exotic plant.

With great numbers such as Skid Row and Suddenly Seymour, this edge

of your seat musical is the perfect half-term treat for all your little horrors!

Friday 24 February - 7.00pm; Saturday 25 February - 1.30pm &

7.00pm

Tickets: £12, Matinee £10

Entertainers presents

Buddy Holly - A Legend Reborn

Through 1957 to 59 one man changed the face of music and

revolutionised the meaning of rock ‘n’ roll - Buddy Holly.

This all new production for 2017 celebrates the Buddy brilliance of an

artist who shot straight into the limelight as soon as That’ll Be the Day hit

the radio. Though his career was short, this one-man power house gave

the world a stack of hits that will never be forgotten.

Join Marc Robinson as Buddy to relive the rockin’ 50s music scene with

hits such as Peggy Sue, Oh Boy, Heartbeat, It Doesn’t Matter Anymore,

Words of Love, It’s So Easy, Rave On and many more.

“Vocals were uncannily true to the original” The Stage

Saturday 4 March - 7.30pm

Tickets: £20

2hrs (inc interval)

The W Factor Final 2017

The ever-popular The W Factor offers the opportunity for young people

age 11-18 who live in Wychavon to showcase their singing, music, dance,

drama, comedy or circus talents.

Following auditions in January finalists will take to the Number 8 stage for

a fantastic evening of performances.

To audition contact Rahma on: 01386 565208 /

[email protected] or apply online at

www.wychavon.gov.uk/communitydevelopment

This event is a Private Hire organised by Wychavon District Council.

Monday 6 March - 7.30pm

Tickets: £5

National Theatre Live:

Hedda Gabler

Live from the National Theatre, London

Just married. Bored already. Hedda longs to be free... Hedda and

Tesman have just returned from their honeymoon and the relationship is

already in trouble. Hedda tries to control those around her, only to see her

own world unravel.

Tony Award-winning director Ivo van Hove returns to National Theatre

Live screens with a modern production of Ibsen’s masterpiece. Ruth

Wilson (Luther, Jane Eyre) plays the title role in a new version by Patrick

Marber (Notes on a Scandal).

Thursday 9 March - 7.00pm

Tickets: £15, Students £10

3hrs 30mins (inc interval), cert 12A

Clive Conway presents

Patricia Routledge: Facing the Music - A Life in Musical

Theatre

With Edward Seckerson

That Patricia Routledge - best known for TV comedy roles like Hyacinth

Bucket - trained not only as an actress but also as a singer remains one

of the best kept secrets in show business. Yet she enjoyed huge success

in musical theatre on both sides of the Atlantic. In a fascinating

conversation with the writer and broadcaster Edward Seckerson, Patricia

recalls this very special part of her career, illustrated by a selection of rare

and treasured recordings.

Saturday 11 March - 2.30pm

Tickets: £20

3hrs (inc interval)

A Contemporary Evening

Live from the Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow

For one evening, the Bolshoi takes on a new challenge with audacity in

The Cage by Jerome Robbins, Harald Lander’s Études and Alexei

Ratmansky’s Russian Seasons. This encounter between some of the best

dancers in the world and masters of contemporary choreography results

in an outstanding synthesis of bringing Robbins’s energy, Lander’s

virtuosity, and Ratmansky’s witty brilliance to a new level.

Sunday 19 March - 3.00pm

Tickets: £15, Friends £14, 16 & under £10

2hrs 40mins (inc interval)

Orchestra of the Swan presents

The English Genius

An evening celebrating Britain’s finest! With a first half that echoes an

earlier musical era featuring works from Holst, Purcell, Tippett and

Walton, we enjoy a second half with Elgar’s Serenade for Strings,

recorded by OOTS, ending with Simple Symphony one of Britten’s early

orchestral works, heralding the promise of dazzling virtuosity to come.

Conducted by David Curtis.

The second concert of three in the series (see p.11 and below).

Friday 24 March - 7.30pm Pre-concert talk 6.45pm

Tickets: £15.50 (buy all 3 and save 20%)

1hr 30mins (inc interval)

Also Booking Now

Bolshoi Ballet: A Hero of Our Time - Sunday 9 April, 4.00pm

Orchestra of the Swan: A Scandinavian Serenade - Friday 28 April,

7.30pm

Royal Ballet: The Dream/Symphonic Variations/Marguerite & Armand -

Tuesday 13 June, 7.15pm

Royal Opera: Madama Butterfly - Thursday 30 March, 7.15pm; Otello -

Wednesday 28 June, 7.15pm

FILMS

Ethel & Ernest (PG) Jan’s Choice

Based on Raymond Briggs' (The Snowman, Father Christmas) award-

winning graphic novel this animated film is a funny and touching tribute to

his parents. The film tells the story of the couple (voiced by Brenda

Blethyn and Jim Broadbent), from when they meet in 1928, through their

marriage, the birth of their son and their experiences during WWII, to

post-war prosperity and cultural upheaval.

Mon 28 Nov - 10.30am & 7.30pm; Thu 1 Dec - 1.30pm

Directed by Roger Mainwood, 1hr 35mins

My Scientology Movie (15)

Louis Theroux won’t take no for an answer when his request to enter the

Church of Scientology headquarters is turned down. Aided by former

Scientology members, Theroux uses actors to infiltrate the church in an

attempt to understand how one of the world’s most mysterious, modern-

day religions operates. Followed by a screening of a Q&A with Louis

Theroux hosted by Adam Buxton.

Directed by John Dower.

Thu 1 Dec - 7.30pm

Directed by John Dower, 1hr 37mins + 54mins Q&A, AD)))

A Street Cat Named Bob (12A)

This feel-good comedy drama is based on the much-loved bestselling

book by James Bowen. It tells the moving and uplifting true story of

James (Luke Treadaway - National Theatre’s The Curious Incident of the

Dog in the Night-time), a young homeless busker and recovering drug

addict, and the stray ginger cat named Bob (played by Bob the cat

himself) who changed his life.

Mon 12 Dec - 10.30am & (ST) 7.30pm; Tue 13 Dec - 7.30pm

Directed by Roger Spottiswoode, 1hr 43mins, AD)))

I, Daniel Blake (15) Jane’s Choice

Winner of the Palme d’Or at Cannes Film Festival this topical and moving

film from Ken Loach tells the story of a 59-year-old widower from

Newcastle. Daniel (Dave Johns) has worked as a joiner most of his life.

Following a heart attack, for the first time ever, he needs help from the

State but finds himself having to fight to keep his benefits.

Wed 14 Dec - 7.30pm

Directed by Ken Loach, 1hr 40mins, AD)))

Arrival (12A) Allan’s Choice

Amy Adams stars as a linguist recruited to communicate with aliens in

this smart, emotional sci-fi drama. After twelve spacecraft land at

seemingly random locations all over the Earth Dr. Louise Banks (Adams)

is teamed with a military scientist (Jeremy Renner) and tasked with

determining the aliens' intentions. What Louise doesn't anticipate is that

the work will illuminate a tragedy in her own past. Adapted from Ted

Chiang's award-winning novella Story of Your Life the film.

Fri 16, Sat 17 & Wed 21 Dec - 7.30pm

Directed by Denis Villeneuve, 1hr 56mins, AD)))

Christmas Special: The Bishop’s Wife (U)

Heavenly bells are ringing, jubilant choirs are singing and Christmas joy

abounds. But the Yuletide spirit has yet to warm Bishop Henry

Brougham's (David Niven) Victorian home. Struggling to raise funds for a

new cathedral, the preoccupied young clergyman has neglected his wife

Julia (Loretta Young), and now only divine intervention can save their

marriage! But the handsome angel (Cary Grant) sent from above has a

mind of his own... and teaching Henry a lesson in romance isn't all he has

planned!

Mon 19 Dec - 10.30am & 7.30pm

Directed by Henry Koster, 1947, 1hr 49mins

Storks (U)

Storks deliver babies...or at least they used to. Now they deliver

packages for global internet giant Cornerstore.com. When Junior, the

company’s top delivery stork, accidentally activates the Baby Making

Machine, producing an adorable but wholly unauthorised baby girl he

must deliver this bundle of trouble before the boss gets wise. With the

help of his friend Tulip, Junior races to make his first-ever baby drop!

Tue 20 Dec - 1.30pm

Directed by Nicolas Stoller & Doug Sweetland, 1hr 30mins, AD)))

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (12A)

A stylish adaptation of the Ransom Riggs best-seller from visionary

director Tim Burton. As Jake (Asa Butterfield) follows clues to a mystery

that spans different worlds and times, he finds a magical place known as

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children. But the mystery deepens as

he gets to know the residents and learns about their special powers...

Tue 20 Dec - 7.30pm

Directed by Tim Burton, 2hrs 7mins, AD)))

Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them, 2D & 3D (12A)

Return to Harry Potter’s world long before he was born in this magical

adventure from J.K.Rowling, the first instalment in an eagerly anticipated

Harry Potter spin-off series. Set in 1926, 70 years before his book

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them became required reading at

Hogwarts, the story follows the adventures of 'Magizoologist' Newt

Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) as he travels to New York city with a

suitcase full of dangerous magical creatures. When the beasts escape

the peaceful relationship between magic people and Muggles comes

under threat.

Fri 23 Dec - 1.30pm & 7.30pm (3D); Tue 27 Dec - 7.30pm; Wed

28 Dec - 1.30pm; Thu 29 Dec - 7.30pm

Directed by David Yates, 2hrs 13mins

Trolls (U)

A hair-raising animated comedy filled with adventure and music from the

creators of Shrek. Known for their crazy, colourful, and magical hair,

Trolls are the happiest, most joyous creatures ever to burst into song.

Their world of rainbows and cupcakes is threatened when troll-eating

Bergens invade. Can Poppy (Anna Kendrick) and Branch (Justin

Timberlake) save the village?

Wed 28 Dec - 11.00am; Fri 30 Dec & Mon 2 Jan - 1.30pm

Directed by Walt Dohrn & Mike Mitchell, 1hr 32mins

Allied (cert tbc)

This romantic thriller stars Brad Pitt as Max Vatan a WWII intelligence

officer who encounters French Resistance fighter Marianne Beausejour

(Marion Cotillard) during a mission behind enemy lines in to assassinate a

German ambassador. When they reunite in London their relationship is

threatened by the extreme pressures of the war.

Fri 30 Dec, Mon 2 & Tue 3 Jan - 7.30pm; Fri 6 Jan - 10.30am

Directed by Robert Zemeckis, running time tbc, AD)))

Jack Reacher (15)

Catch up on this first film in the Jack Reacher series, prior to screenings

of Jack Reacher: Never Go Back (see p.21). Adapted from a novel in Lee

Child's best-selling crime series, this film sees Tom Cruise as ex-military

policeman turned vigilante drifter Jack Reacher called in to investigate

after an expert sniper takes the lives of five random victims.

Wed 4 Jan - 7.30pm

Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, 2012, 2hrs 10mins, AD)))

Chocolat (12A) Emma’s Choice

The fascinating true story of France’s first famous black circus performer

is brought to vivid life by Omar Sy (Untouchable) in this historical drama.

Arriving in Paris in 1887 at the age of 18, the posthumously named Rafael

Padilla, a former slave, joins British clown George Footit (played by

James Thierrée the grandson of Charlie Chaplin) to form a new circus

act. Audiences are captivated by ‘Chocolat’ the clown and the duo’s fame

increases until easy money, gambling and discrimination take their toll.

Thu 5 Jan - 7.30pm; Wed 11 Jan - 1.30pm

Directed by Roschdy Zem, 1hr 56mins, French with subtitles

Sully (12A)

Tom Hanks stars in this thrilling portrait of heroic airline pilot Chesley

‘Sully’ Sullenberger, re-enacting his incredible successful emergency

landing of an Airbus A320 full of passengers on the Hudson River.

Fri 6 & Sat 7 Jan - 7.30pm

Directed by Clint Eastwood, 1hr 36mins, AD)))

The Light Between Oceans (12A)

A heart-breaking film about fate, love, moral dilemmas and the lengths

that one couple will go to, to see their dreams realized. Based on the

bestseller by M. L. Stedman, this moving drama tells the story of a

lighthouse keeper (Michael Fassbender) and his wife (Alicia Vikander)

living off the coast of Australia who discover a baby adrift in a rowboat.

When they decide to raise the child as their own, the consequences of

their choice will change their lives forever.

Mon 9 Jan - 10.30am & 7.30pm; Tue 10 Jan - 7.30pm

Directed by Derek Cianfrance, 2hrs 13mins, AD)))

The Innocents (15) Sheila’s Choice

Warsaw, December 1945: WWII is finally over when doctor Mathilde is

begged by a panicked Benedictine nun to follow her back to the convent.

Upon arrival Mathilde is shocked to find a holy sister about to give birth

and several more in advanced stages of pregnancy. A non-believer,

Mathilde enters the sisters' fiercely private world. Fearing the shame of

exposure and the hostility of the new government the nuns increasingly

turn to Mathilde as their belief and traditions clash with harsh realities.

Thu 12 Jan - 7.30pm; Wed 18 Jan - 1.30pm

Directed by Anne Fontaine, 1hr 55mins

French & Polish with subtitles

Hell or High Water (15)

Brothers Toby (Chris Pine) and Tanner (Ben Foster) come together after

years divided to rob branches of the bank threatening to foreclose on their

family land. For them, the hold-ups are a justifiable scheme to take back

a future that has been stolen from under them. Justice seems to be theirs,

until the robberies come to the attention of veteran Texas Ranger (Jeff

Bridges) who is determined to take them down. As the brothers plot a

final heist with the Rangers on their heels, a showdown looms at the

crossroads where the values of the Old and New West murderously

collide.

Fri 13 Jan - 7.30pm

Directed by David Mackenzie, 1hr 40mins

A United Kingdom (12A)

David Oyelowo and Rosamund Pike star in this inspiring true story of

Seretse Khama, the King of Bechuanaland (modern Botswana), and Ruth

Williams, the London office worker that he married in 1948 in the face of

fierce opposition from their families and the British and South African

governments. Played out against a backdrop of regal English offices and

sun-kissed Botswana plains the film tells a love story that changed the

course of a country, eventually leading to Botswana’s independence from

the British Empire.

Mon 16 Jan - 10.30am & 7.30pm (ST); Tue 17 Jan - 7.30pm; Wed 18

Jan - 7.45pm

Directed by Amma Asante, 1hr 51mins, AD)))

Courted (12A)

Actors Fabrice Luchini (Cycling with Molière, Gemma Bovery) and Sidse

Babett Knudsen (Borgen TV series) combine their immense talents in this

intriguing blend of courtroom drama and suppressed romance. Known for

being strict and ruthless, Michel Racine (Luchini) is the judge all criminals

fear. Presiding over a case, Racine finds himself distracted by Ditte

(Knudsen) a juror who he met previously during a stay in hospital. Will his

old flame reignite his passion or will he continue on his strict and

structured path?

Thu 19 Jan - 7.30pm

Directed by Christian Vincent, 1hr 35mins, French with subtitles

Nocturnal Animals (15)

A haunting, gripping and intense romantic thriller that explores the thin

lines between love and cruelty, revenge and redemption. Amy Adams

stars as an art gallery owner who is haunted by her ex-husband's (Jake

Gyllenhaal) novel, a violent thriller she interprets as a veiled threat and a

symbolic revenge tale.

“…intoxicating, provocative, delicious…” The Telegraph

Fri 20 & Sat 21 Jan - 7.30pm

Directed by Tom Ford, 1hr 57mins

Queen of Katwe (PG)

The vibrant true story of Phiona Mutesi (Madina Nalwanga) a young girl

living in poverty in rural Uganda whose world changes when she is

introduced to the game of chess. Phiona is captivated and it soon

becomes clear that she has a natural aptitude plus a fighting spirit that

she has learnt from her mother (Lupita Nyong'o). Encouraged by a soccer

player turned missionary (David Oyelowo) Phiona is determined pursue

her dream of becoming an international chess champion.

Mon 23 Jan - 10.30am & 7.30pm; Tue 24 Jan - 7.30pm

Directed by Mira Nair, 2hrs 4mins

Captain Fantastic (15)

What is the best way to bring up children? Deep in the forest isolated

from society, a devoted father (Viggo Mortensen) dedicates his life to

transforming his six young children into extraordinary adults. When a

tragedy strikes the family, they are forced to leave this self-created

paradise and venture into the outside world, a world that challenges his

idea of what it means to be a parent and brings into question everything

he's taught them.

“Finely wrought and inventive.” The Guardian

Wed 25 Jan - 7.45pm

Directed by Matt Ross, 1hr 56mins, AD)))

Britain on Film: Railways (U)

Your chance to travel back to a time when travelling by rail

was comfortable, punctual and maybe even glamorous! This major new

collection of rare archive films charts the history of the UK's railways. The

evocative programme documents not just the glories of the railway, but

also the changing social, political and economic climates of the 20th

century.

Steven Foxon, Curator at the BFI National Archive will introduce the film

and participate in a Q&A afterwards.

Please note: the programme contains a sequence of flashing lights which might

affect audience members with photosensitive epilepsy.

Thu 26 Jan- 7.30pm

1hr 23mins + Q&A

Jack Reacher: Never Go Back (12A)

Tom Cruise returns as Jack Reacher in this sequel based on Lee Child's

bestselling novel Never Go Back, which finds the itinerant problem-solver

accused of murder, and learning that he may have a child he has never

met. See p.18 for details of the first film in the Jack Reacher series.

Fri 27 Jan - 7.30pm; Wed 1 Feb - 7.45pm

Directed by Edward Zwick, 1hr 58mins, AD)))

Mum’s List (cert tbc)

The true story of a profound, unstoppable and undying love based on the

best-selling book by St John (Singe) Greene. Singe (Rafe Spall) and

Kate (Emilia Fox), a couple from North Somerset, had their lives turned

upside down when Kate was diagnosed with an incurable breast cancer.

Over her last few days, she created her list: writing her thoughts and

memories down, to help the man she loved create the best life possible

for their two sons, after she was gone.

An inspiring story that reminds us all to live each day with joy and

adventure.

Mon 30 Jan - 10.30am & 7.30pm

Directed by Niall Johnson, running time tbc

Passengers (cert tbc)

On a routine journey through space to a new home, two passengers,

sleeping in suspended animation, are awakened 90 years too early when

their ship malfunctions. As Jim (Chris Pratt) and Aurora (Jennifer

Lawrence) face living the rest of their lives on board, with every luxury

they could ever ask for, they begin to fall for each other. Their burgeoning

romance has to be set aside when they discover the ship is in danger.

With the lives of 5,000 sleeping passengers at stake, only Jim and Aurora

can save them all.

Fri 3 & Sat 4 Feb - 7.30pm

Directed by Morten Tyldum, running time tbc

Collateral Beauty (cert tbc)

When successful New York advertising executive Howard (Will Smith)

experiences a deep personal tragedy he retreats from life entirely.

Concerned for his well-being a group of his friends (Edward Norton, Kate

Winslet and Michael Pena) devise a drastic plan to help him recover.

Over the following days Howard has encounters with three mysterious

figures (Helen Mirren, Keira Knightly and Jacob Latimore) who encourage

him to move on from the past.

Mon 6 Feb - 10.30am & 7.30pm; Tue 7 Feb - 7.30pm

Directed by David Frankel, running time tbc

The Man Who Fell to Earth (18)

A post-Ziggy David Bowie is perfectly cast in this sci-fi classic. Bowie

plays alien Thomas Jerome Newton who crash lands on Earth seeking a

way to ship water to his planet which is suffering from a severe drought.

Digitally restored to celebrate its 40th anniversary the film was the launch

pad for Bowie’s Thin White Duke persona and is often considered his

best film role.

Wed 8 Feb - 7.45pm

Directed by Nicolas Roeg, 1976, 2hrs 16mins

The Son of Joseph (12A)

A smart and funny fable that draws upon biblical references to tell the

story of an unhappy teenager seeking a father. Fifteen-year-old Vincent

(Victor Ezenfis) has been lovingly raised by his single mother, Marie, but

she has always refused to tell him his father's name. Determined to

discover the identity of his father Vincent’s investigations lead him to

Oscar Pormenor (Mathieu Amalric - The Diving Bell and the Butterfly) a

Machiavellian scoundrel who is a God-like figure in the Parisian literary

world.

Thu 9 Feb - 7.30pm

Directed by Eugène Green, 1hr 54mins, French with subtitles

The Birth of a Nation (15)

Tipped for awards success this powerful drama set prior to the American

civil war, follows Nat Turner (Nate parker), a literate slave and preacher,

whose financially strained owner, Samuel Turner, accepts an offer to use

Nat's preaching to subdue unruly slaves. As he witnesses countless

atrocities - against himself and his fellow slaves - Nat orchestrates an

uprising in the hopes of leading his people to freedom.

Fri 10 Feb - 7.30pm; Wed 15 Feb - 7.45pm

Directed by Nate Parker, 2hrs

Bridget Jones’s Baby (15)

Back by popular demand and as a special Valentine treat, this romantic

comedy shows that ‘happily ever after’ doesn’t always go according to

plan. After breaking up with Mark Darcy (Colin Firth), a fortysomething

Bridget Jones (Renée Zellweger) is single again and concentrating on her

career. Life takes a surprising turn when after an encounter with a

dashing American (Patrick Dempsey) she finds herself pregnant and can

only be fifty percent sure of the identity of her baby’s father.

Mon 13 Feb - 10.30am & 7.30pm (ST); Tue 14 Feb - 7.30pm

Directed by Sharon Maguire, 2hrs 3mins, AD)))

Moana (cert tbc)

This animated Disney adventure follows Moana, the young princess of a

Polynesian island tribe as she sets sail in search of a fabled island of

mysterious secrets. During her journey she teams up with her hero and

legendary demigod Maui. Together they sail across the open ocean on an

action-packed voyage, encountering enourmous monsters and impossible

odds. Can Moana fulfil the ancient quest of her ancestors?

Sat 18 Feb - 1.30pm; Wed 22 Feb - 11.00am

Directed by Ron Clements & John Musker, running time tbc

La La Land (12A) Vega’s Choice

This musical romance has wowed critics and audiences alike. With

modern day Los Angeles as the backdrop, La La Land explores what is

more important: a once-in-a-lifetime love or the spotlight. Starring Emma

Stone (The Help) as an aspiring actress and Ryan Gosling (The

Notebook) as a dedicated jazz musician, struggling to make ends meet

while pursuing their dreams in a city known for destroying hopes and

breaking hearts.

“…a sun-drenched musical masterpiece.” The Guardian

“It has its head in the stars, and for a little over two wonderstruck hours, it

lifts you up there too.” The Telegraph

Sat 18 Feb - 7.30pm; Mon 20 Feb - 10.30am & 7.30pm; Tue 21 Feb -

7.30pm; Wed 22 Feb - 1.30pm

Directed by Damien Chazelle, 2hrs 8mins

Jackie (cert tbc)

Natalie Portman gives an enthralling performance as Jackie Bouvier

Kennedy in this searing portrait of a tragic moment in American history,

seen through the eyes of the iconic First Lady. Set during the days

immediately after her husband's assassination the film follows the First

Lady, known for her extraordinary dignity and poise, as she struggles to

maintain her husband's legacy and the world of ‘Camelot’ that they

created and loved so well.

Mon 27 Feb - 10.30am & 7.30pm; Wed 1 Mar - 7.30pm

Directed by Pablo Larraín, running time tbc

Silence (cert tbc)

Based on the novel by Shūsaku Endō this historical drama set in

seventeenth century Japan is brought to the screen by director Martin

Scorcese. Jesuit priests, Sebastião Rodrigues (Andrew Garfield) and

Francis Garrpe (Adam Driver) face violence when they travel to Japan to

locate their mentor (Liam Neeson) and propagate Christianity. There they

witness the persecution of Japanese Christians at the hands of the

government. Eventually the priests separate and Rodrigues travels the

countryside, wondering why God remains silent while His children suffer.

Tue 28 Feb - 7.30pm

Directed by Martin Scorsese, running time tbc

Coming Soon

Look out next season for a whole host of great films including:

The Mercy - Their Finest - Alone in Berlin - The Handmaiden

Denial - Lion - The Rules Don’t Apply - Loving

Ballerina - Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

If you have suggestions for films you would like us to show please get in

touch.

CREATIVE COURSES

Number 8 Youth Theatre

Know any budding young thespians? These enjoyable classes are perfect

for young people who would like to develop acting skills, stagecraft and

techniques in a friendly and relaxed environment.

Limited places available. For further details or to book a place contact us

now on 01386 555028.

Weekly Wednesdays, 11 January - 5 April

(no classes 22 Feb)

Juniors (age 7 - 11) 4.15pm - 5.45pm, £48 (12 wks)

Seniors (age 12+) 6.00pm - 7.30pm, £60 (12 wks)

Pershore to Polynesia Dance Workshop

Escape with us to one of the most remote and unspoilt places on Earth -

the Polynesian Islands. Using original music from Disney’s Moana (see

p.24) this fun and adventurous dance workshop is suitable for all ages (5

- 95!) and abilities. Children, parents, grandparents or guardians whether

from Pershore or Polynesia are all welcome.

Thursday 23 February, 10.00am - 12.00pm

Cost: £7 (includes tropical squash & biscuits)

Superhero Shields Workshop

Calling all secret superheroes! From Wonder Woman to Captain America,

creative youngsters will take inspiration from the magical world of Marvel

to design and create their own decorated cardboard shield in this fun-

filled workshop.

Suitable for ages 7 -11.

Friday 24 February, 10.30am - 12.30pm

Cost: £6

GALLERY

Terry W Scales - ‘Lightscapes & Landscapes’

An exhibition of recent work by international artist Terry Scales exploring

the abstract world of reflected light as seen in our highly polished

domestic and urban townscapes. The exhibition includes a previously

unseen range of digital colour work which captures the patterns and

artifice of agricultural landscapes in France.

Thursday 17 November - Wednesday 7 December

Branch Line - ‘Branching Out’

A diverse collection of textile art created by a group of artists based near

Malvern. Combining traditional methods with new techniques, this

talented collective work with a wide variety of fabrics and paper which

they colour, manipulate and stitch to create the effects they desire.

Thursday 8 December - Wednesday 4 January

Visualize

A new exhibition by 11-18 year olds that live in Wychavon based on the

theme ‘Our Country’. The work will be selected through a competition with

the categories painting, drawing, photography, mixed media and street

art. Winners will be announced at the beginning of the exhibition. For

details see www.wychavon.gov.uk/communitydevelopment.

Thursday 5 January - Wednesday 25 January

Paul Attwood - ‘Gaining a Better Perspective’

Local graduate Paul Attwood captures Worcestershire landmarks and

beauty spots from an alternative perspective in this exhibition of aerial

photographs. Having honed his eye for design through his work and

studies, Paul founded Attwood Media and now puts a creative twist on

images taken using drone technology.

Thursday 26 January - Wednesday 15 February

Rosie Lippett - ‘Nature’s Secrets’

Combining fantasy with reality, Rosie Lippett portrays her fascination with

nature in this unique collection of paintings. After working as a flower

maker and figure painter at Royal Worcester Porcelain, Rosie is now a

self-employed artist working and selling from a studio in the local area.

Thursday 16 February - Wednesday 8 March

CRAFT

Lorraine Powell - ‘Animal Antics’

An exhibition from a local craftsperson whose love of fabrics and shiny

buttons has never faltered! Lorraine runs Blueberry Button where

she designs and makes animal themed textile gifts and accessories using

vintage inspired fabrics, ribbon, buttons and pure wool felt, combined with

machine stitching, embroidery and appliqué techniques. The unique

pieces included in this exhibition make original gifts for any occasion.

Thursday 27 October - Wednesday 7 December

Three Established Artists - ‘Drawing a Fine Line’

An exhibition from three talented artists showcasing ceramics made using

a variety of techniques and materials. Peter Colquitt uses a robust

stoneware clay to make his small scale sculptural figures whilst Jennifer

Colquitt uses fine porcelain for her decorative wall panels. Incorporating

primitive, classical and archaeological influences the third member of this

trio, June Ridgway, creates elegant vessels from a fine stoneware clay.

Thursday 8 December - Wednesday 18 January

Gemma Farr - ‘Inspired by Nature’

Taking influence from the world around her, jeweller Gemma Farr creates

intricate pieces of jewellery, hand-crafted from sterling silver. The flowers

and fronds of the natural world provide constant inspiration with one tiny

observation sparking a whole new collection. Alongside her own work

Gemma teaches jewellery classes and workshops in the local area.

Thursday 19 January - Wednesday 1 March

INFORMATION

Become a Volunteer

Number 8 exists thanks to the time, dedication and commitment of many

volunteers working in a variety of roles across the organisation. If you

would like to find out more about volunteering opportunities please

contact 01386 555028 / [email protected]

Friends of Number 8

Being a friend... is to be part of Pershore’s Community Arts Centre.

Friends subscriptions are an important source of income for Number 8 (a

registered charity). The support of Friends plays a vital role in the

continuing development and success of Number 8 and helps ensure our

long-term viability.

Box Office: 01386 555488

Benefits include:

• Season Brochures delivered to your home in advance of public release

• A week’s priority booking at the start of each season

• Discounts for selected shows

• No additional charge for 3D screenings

• Friends’ Newsletter four times a year

• Exclusive ‘Friends’ Only’ events

• Opportunity to vote for and attend ‘Friends’ Choice’ annual free film

screening

Individual Membership £15 / Two people residing at the same

address £22.50

To become a Friend of Number 8 ring 01386 555488 or email

[email protected]

Gift Vouchers

Treat someone with a Number 8 gift voucher. Vouchers are available

from Box Office in a denomination of your choice and can be used toward

payment for any Number 8 film screening or event. The ideal gift anytime

of the year!

HOW TO BOOK

Box Office: 01386 555488

Open Mon-Sat: 10.00am - 4.00pm and from 6.00pn on performance

evenings.

By Phone: You can purchase your tickets instantly by debit/credit card

over the phone.

Online: At www.number8.org. Online Transactions will incur a minimal

booking fee.

In Person: At our Box Office, Number 8 Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore,

WR10 1BG.

Reservations

With the exemption of group bookings we do not take reservations.

General Concessions

Concessions are available, where specified, for children 16 and under,

senior citizens, students in full time education and CEA Card holders.

Proof of eligibility is required.

School/Group Bookings

Discounts are available for group bookings. For every 10 tickets you book

the 11th is FREE. To claim this discount please contact Box Office.

Advance booking recommended.

Refunds

We regret we are unable to give refunds or exchange tickets unless the

event is cancelled.

Admissions

We always recommend that children are accompanied by an adult.

However, we will admit children aged 12 and over unaccompanied.

Access

The ground floor of Number 8 is fully accessible with the first row of the

auditorium reserved for wheelchair users and disabled patrons. Please

advise Box Office if you require additional assistance. The Auditorium is

equipped with an infra-red hearing system for films and selected

screenings are shown with subtitles for those with hearing loss. These

screenings are indicated by an (ST) after the film time. For films where it

is available we offer audio description AD))) for customers with sight

problems. CEA Card holders can obtain a FREE ticket for a person

accompanying them to film screenings. There is no parking within the

building for mobility scooters during shows. Rain covers are available on

request for scooters parked outside.