StageDirectionsNovember, December 2009 & January 2010 Issue 40

In this issue: Cirque du Soleil, Hairspray and Oliver!, Cinderella, The Line andPeter & the Wolf Live on Stage.

Features: Peter Pan for KS1 and 2 KS3 and KS4, The Woman in Black

Cove

r im

age:

A C

hris

tmas

Car

ol, B

irmin

gham

Rep

erto

ry T

heat

re

for members of the Teachers Preview Club www.mousetrap.org.uk

Celebrating 10 years of the

TeachersPreview Club!

Dear Members,Welcome to the 40th edition of StageDirections.

West EndA Christmas Carol p2

Billy Elliott the Musical p2

Blood Brothers p4

Chicago p4

Hairspray p3

Oliver! p3

Sister Act p3

Stomp p4

The Gruffalo p2

The Shawshank Redemption p4

The 39 Steps p3

Wicked p4

The Woman in Black p4

Other London VenuesBedroom Farce p10

Breathing Irregular p5

Charlie and Lola's Best Bestest Play p6

Cinderella p12

Comedians p6

Comedy of Change p11

Darker Shores p6

Dial M For Murder p9

Jack and the Beanstalk p6

Miss Julie p10

Our Man In Havana p9

Peter Pan p9

Peter & the Wolf Live On Stage p12

Pride & Prejudice p9

Sandi Toksvig’s Christmas CrackerStarring Ronnie Corbett p12

Skellig p10

Stick man p11

Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs p9

The Kreutzer Sonata p5

The Line p5

The Woman In Black p10

Time for the Good Looking Boy p12

Treasure Island p10

Three Sisters p6

Varekai p11

Touring and RegionalCharles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol p13

Cling to me like Ivy p13

George's Marvellous Medicine p13

Horrible Histories p13

Skellig p13

How to bookThe Teachers Preview Club isdesigned for you and a guest to see a show before taking a schoolgroup. Group bookings need to be made with the box office. Please read the following terms and conditions carefully.

How to BOOK your tickets:• You are entitled to book two

tickets per performance at theoffer price for any of theproductions in this newsletter.

• Most West End theatre offers can be booked through See Tickets on 0871 230 5544, otherwise thetelephone number will appear at the end of the offer information. You cannot book tickets through our office.

• Productions at other venues can be booked via their own box office. The telephone number will appearunder the theatre’s name.

• All tickets are subject to availability. Please book early to avoid disappointment.

• You can book for as many or as few productions as you wish.

• You can book again for the sameproduction on a different date.

• When booking tickets, you will be

asked to give your TPCmembership number, shown onyour orange membership card.

• Tickets cannot be transferred orbought on behalf of others. Youmay be asked to show yourmembership card when collectingtickets at the box office.

• If you lose your TPC card, please call our office on 020 7240 1248 or email tpc@mousetrap.org.uk

• All offers are published in good faithbut shows can close unexpectedly. If there are any changes in production dates or booking detailsafter this newsletter’s publication, you will receive an email with theupdated information.

• If you haven’t registered your emailaddress with us, please contactnancy@mousetrap.org.uk toreceive additional theatre offersduring the quarter.

Mousetrap Theatre Projects is anindependent charity dedicated tocreating access to London’s besttheatre for disadvantaged youngpeople. Any proceeds from theTeachers Preview Club support our education work. Visit www.mousetrap.org.ukto find out more.

1 Mousetrap Theatre Projects

As you may have noticed this meansthat the Teachers Preview Club isnow 10 years old! Over the years wehave seen the club expand in bothmembership and the number andvariety of productions on offer. Manythanks to all those members whohave been spreading the word; weowe the success of the club to you,long may this continue!

This issue has a number of showsspecifically for Key Stage 1 and 2audiences, in the West End, TheGruffalo, A Christmas Carol and Oliver!And further afield; Peter Pan, SnowWhite and the Seven Dwarfs and Peter And the Wolf Live on Stage.We would also like to welcome backThe Arcola, The Bloomsbury Theatre

and The Royal Albert Hall, all venueswe haven’t seen in a while!

Mousetrap Theatre Projects would like to say a special thank you toMelanie Lewis who, as many of youwill know, as been volunteering withMousetrap since May and is helping to run the preview club. We don’tknow what we would do without you,keep up the good work Mel!

Best wishes and seasons greetings

Nancy ShakerleyProgrammes Manager

West End Shows

Billy Elliot the MusicalVictoria Palace Based on the smash hit film, BillyElliot the Musical is an inspirationalstory of one boy’s dream to realisehis ambitions against the odds. Set in the 1984/5 miners’ strike,Billy pursues his passion for dancein secret to avoid the disapproval ofhis struggling family. Full of life,laughter, spectacular dancing and

unforgettable songs by Elton John,Billy Elliot the musical is an upliftingand emotional theatrical experiencethat will stay with you forever. Mon – Thurs,Jan 4 – 29£20 Age 12+(contains stronglanguage) To book call 0207 834 1170and quote ‘teachers previewclub’ (box office open 10am – 6pm Mon)

The Gruffalo Apollo Theatre The smash hit show returns foranother monster Christmas Season!Following its sell –out success lastyear, everyone’s favourite monsteris back – live on stage in the WestEnd this Christmas! Since its premiere in 2006, thismagical, musical adaptation of the

award –winning picture book hasachieved huge international acclaimand delighted audiences worldwide. Songs, laughs and scary fun forchildren aged 3 to 300!www.gruffalolive.com All performances From 25 Nov – Until 13 Dec £8.50 Ages 3+To book call tpc hotline 0871 230 5544

...inspiring young people 2

puppets and a sumptuous sprinklingof festive charm, you’ll have neverseen an adaptation of CharlesDickens’ classic like this before!Tues & Weds eves & Thurs mats 11 Nov – 10 Jan (plus mats on Wed 9, Tue 15, Wed 16 Dec) excl all perfs From 20 Dec – Until 3 Jan £15 All Ages. To book call tpc hotline 0871 230 5544

A ChristmasCarol Arts Theatre A truly delightful Dickensian festivetreat awaits you and your family thisChristmas at the Arts Theatre inLondon! Gareth Hale stars asScrooge in Susie McKenna and SteveEdis’ magical new musical AChristmas Carol. With a cast ofextraordinary performers, fabulous

Oliver!Theatre Royal Drury LaneOliver! is the fastest–selling WestEnd show of all time and this newproduction at the Theatre RoyalDrury Lane is more spectacular thanever before. The sensational score isfull of Lionel Bart’s irresistible songsincluding Food Glorious Food,

Sister ActLondon Palladium When disco diva Deloris Van Cartierwitnesses a murder, she is put inprotective custody in the one placecops are sure she won't be found –a convent! Based on the smash-hitmovie, Sister Act features a brandnew score by 8 time Oscar winnerAlan Menken. US actress Patina Milleris ‘A genuine star’ (Independent) in

her West End debut as Deloris VanCartier, the role made famous byWhoopi Goldberg, co-producer of thisdivine new musical comedy. SheilaHancock as Mother Superior. Mon – Thu at 7.30pm and Wed at 3pmFrom 2 Nov Until end of Jan(excl 28 Dec – 2 Jan) £20 Ages 6+To book call tpc hotline 0871 230 5544

3 Mousetrap Theatre Projects

Consider Yourself, You’ve Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two, I’d Do Anything,Oom Pah Pah, As Long As He NeedsMe and many more.Wed at 2.30pm, Wed & Thurs at 7.30pm. From 2 Nov – Until 17 Dec 4 – 28 Jan£15 Ages 5+To book call tpc hotline 0871 230 5544 (valid onBalcony & Upper Circle seats)

The 39 StepsCriterion TheatreThe Olivier Award winning comedy,based on John Buchan’s grippingwhodunit – memorably filmed byAlfred Hitchcock in 1935 – is now inits fourth year at the CriterionTheatre in the West End. With fouractors playing one hundred andthirty nine roles in one hundredminutes, it’s the most astonishing

theatrical tour de force!46 page education packdownloadable atwww.love39steps.comMon – Fri at 8pm and Tues at 3pm, Sat at 4pmFrom 1 Nov – Until end of Jan(excl 26 Dec to 2 Jan)£15 Age 7+To book call tpc hotline0871 230 5544

HairsprayShaftesbury Theatre Hairspray, the mother of allmusicals, follows Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an evenbigger heart as she sets out todance her way onto TV’s mostpopular dance show. Can thisordinary girl realise herextraordinary dreams, inspire her

mum and still have time to win theboy she loves?Tues to Thurs at 7.30pm and Sun at 3pmFrom 2 Nov Until end of Jan (excl 21 Dec to 3 Jan)£20 Ages 6+To book call tpc hotline 0871 230 5544

WickedApollo VictoriaBased on the acclaimed novel byGregory Maguire that re-imaginedthe stories and characters createdby L. Frank Baum in 'The WonderfulWizard of Oz', WICKED tells theincredible untold story of an unlikelybut profound friendship between twogirls who first meet as sorcerystudents. Their extraordinary

adventures in Oz ultimately see themfulfil their destinies as Glinda TheGood and the Wicked Witch of theWest. Experience this unforgettable,award-winning musical and discoverthat you've not been told the wholestory about the land of Oz...Mon – Wed at 7.30pm and Wed at 2.30pm Until 2 Nov – Until end Jan (excl. w/c 22 Dec, w/c 28 Dec)£15 Age 5+ To book call tpc hotline 0871 230 5544

Blood BrothersPhoenix TheatreMon–Thurs at 7.45pm, Thurs at 3pm£10 From 2 Nov – Until end of JanTo book call 0871 230 5544

StompAmbassadors TheatreMon at 8pm and Thurs at 3pm £15 From 2 Nov – Until end of JanTo book call 0844 8112 334and quote ‘teachers preview club’

ChicagoCambridge TheatreMon–Thurs at 8pm and Fri at 5pm£15From 2 Nov – Until to end of Jan(excl. 26th dec – 2 Jan)To book call 0871 230 5544

Education pack available from Chicagothemusical.co.uk

The Woman in BlackFortune TheatreMon–Thurs at 8pm£16 (£1 theatre restoration levy)From 2 Nov – Until end of JanTo book call 0871 230 5544New Education pack available fromwww.thewomaninblack.com

...inspiring young people 4

TheShawshankRedemptionWyndham’s Theatre Based on the classic novel ‘Rita Hayworth and ShawshankRedemption’ by Stephen King, thisiconic story inspired the perenniallypopular film and is now a smash hit

West End play. Don’t miss thisuplifting story of drama, humour andsalvation. Dreams are what the futureis made of...hope will take you there.Tue – Thu 7.30pm Fri 5.30pm,Sun 4pm From 1 Nov – Until end of Jan£15 Age 15+To book call 0844 482 5125and and quote ‘TeachersPreview Offer’.

Long Running Shows

For group bookings through See Education please call 0844 412 4649

Nancy Harris Tolstoy’s notorious novella isbrought to life for the stage bymusicians and actors. A new play about death, desire andBeethoven. Post Show discussions17/11 and 26/115 – 7 Nov at 7.30pm£10 Ages 14+

BreathingIrregularCoupling explosive contemporarydance with a series of dramatic anduplifting true stories, BREATHINGIRREGULAR celebrates the humancapacity to cope and to survive.Following the critical success of IAM FALLING, Artistic Director CarrieCracknell brings together a team ofexceptional artists from the worldsof theatre and dance to create thisworld premiere for the Gate.28 Jan – 30 Jan at 7.30pm£10 Age 14+

To book call 020 7503 1646 andquote ‘Mousetrap Teachers Offer’

The LineA startling new play from theacclaimed Timberlake Wertenbaker(Our Country’s Good) about thepassion and discipline of art,exploring the relationship betweenEdgar Degas and his ambitiousprotégé Suzanne Valadon. StarringHenry Goodman, fresh from the West End hit Duet for One, withSelina Cadell (ITV’s Doc Martin) andSarah Smart (BBC’s Wallander). 18 – 28 Nov at 8pm 2 for 1 ticket offer Ages 14+

5 Mousetrap Theatre Projects

To book call 020 7388 8822 andquote ‘Mousetrap TPC’

SkelligBased on the Whitbread award-winning book by David Almond.Following a sell-out run at the Shaw Theatre last autumn, thisspellbinding stage adaptation of the award-winning book Skelligcomes to the Bloomsbury Theatre.Recently made into an Opera and a star-studded SKY film production,this captivating and magical storypromises to be a truly unique treatthis Christmas!www.thebloomsbury.comAll performances in Dec£9.50 Ages 7+

To book call 020 7229 0706 andquote ‘StageDirections Offer’

The KreutzerSonataBy Leo Tolstoy, Adapted by

Other London VenuesArcolaTheatre

BloomsburyTheatre

The GateTheatre

Skelig The Bloomsbury Theatre

Breathing Irregular The Gate Theatre

The

Line

Arco

la T

heat

re

Charlie andLola's BestBestest PlayBased on the characters created by Lauren Child.Don’t miss everyone’s favouritebrother and sister, Charlie and Lola, in their absolutely ever so wonderfulstage show! The stars of the hitBBC TV series and books by Lauren Child are brought to life by a magical mix of puppets andmusic and will be at Hampstead this Christmas!www.watershedtheatre.comFrom 10 Dec – Until 2 Jan Family Ticket for four £40Ages 3–5

To book call 0871 221 1721, andquote ‘Teacher Preview Club’

ComediansSix budding comics. The mostimportant night of their lives. It’s no laughing matter. SeanHolmes directs Trevor Griffiths’modern classic. Featuring KeithAllen, Mark Benton, David Dawson,Kulvinder Ghir, Matthew Kelly andReece Shearsmith.‘Impeccably acted.’Metro ‘Superb performances.’ Sunday ExpressUntil 14 Nov£10 Ages 14+

...inspiring young people 6

Other London Venuescontinues on page 9

Jack and theBeanstalkJoin cheeky West Londoner Jack,his mum and their amazing talkingcow and make your way to theHammersmith as pantomime comesto the Lyric. Get ready to boo thebaddies, cheer the hero, laugh andsingalong with this feelgood festiveshow. Written by Richard Bean, JoelHorwood, Morgan Lloyd Malcolmand Ché Walker.From 24 Nov – Until 18 Dec£10 All ages

Three SistersFollowing their hit show TwelfthNight at the Tricycle, exhilaratingtheatre company Filter (CaucasianChalk Circle – NT) and the Lyric’sSean Holmes delve beneath thesurface of Anton Chekhov’s classicplay. Expect plenty of hope, despairand vodka. 16 – 30 Jan £10 Ages 14+

To book call 020 7722 9301 andquote ‘teachers preview club’

Darker ShoresA ghost story by Michael Punter. It is Christmas 1875 and ProfessorGabriel Stokes takes lodgings at TheSea House, on a desolate stretch ofthe East Sussex coast. No sooner hashe arrived than the troubled history of the house comes to the fore withunexplained and mysterioushappenings. Having enlisted the helpof Tom Beauregard, an Americanspiritualist, the two embark on aterrifying journey to discover the truth.www.hampsteadtheatre.com/darkershores3 Dec – 5 Dec£7.50 Ages 10+

Hampsteadtheatre

LyricHammersmith

Dark

er S

hore

sHa

mps

tead

The

atre

Jack and the Beanstalk Lyric Hamm

ersmith

Comedians

Lyric Hamm

ersmith

The Woman in Black

by Sandra Corcoran, Kingston Grammar School

‘The most terrifying live theatre experience inthe world’

Fortune Theatre and Richmond Theatre

What better way to enjoy the chillsand thrills of a West End Productionthan to take students to this theatrefavourite? Posters proclaim “The MostTerrifying Live Theatre experience inthe World”. Teenage theatregoers inthe seats next to me would clearlyvalidate this. Whilst for me it was afirst visit, for them, it was a fourth!

The Woman in Black is the work ofthe late Stephen Mallatratt andadapted from the novel of the sametitle by Susan Hill, first published in1983. The play, like the novel, tells asimple but terrific ghost story. Bothbegin with the lines, “It was 9.30 onChristmas Eve...” We are skilfullylulled into an “are you sittingcomfortably? Then I’ll begin” wistfulstate of mind. Needless to say, oursenses are very quickly sharpenedand we remain and for much of theperformance we remain gripped withexpectation of what may - or maynot come next. Enthusiastic dry icemachines do of course add to theatmosphere at key moments and theair becomes decidedly chilly.

Nevertheless, the power ofanticipation is keenly felt.

Originally used as a low budget “filler”for the Christmas season inScarborough, The Woman in Blackopened to rave reviews on 12thDecember 1987. It arrived inLondon’s West End in January 1989,playing at the Lyric Hammersmith,The Strand, The Playhouse and thenits current residence, The FortuneTheatre, just round the corner fromglitzy Covent Garden. This legendaryproduction, which is in fact a playwithin a play, sits perfectly in whathas been fittingly described as one of the capital’s “most intimatetheatres”. You take your seat and italmost feels as though you can reachout and touch the sides of the stalls.The seating is well raked and faces aproscenium arched stage on which is set very little.

The production demonstratesbeautifully the power of storytellingwith minimal staging, props, effectsand even actors. The audience is

taken on a journey where thetransport is largely their ownimagination. It presents a fantasticopportunity for English and Dramateachers in particular to explore and emulate so many of the featuresand themes of this simple yetgripping creation.

CURRICULUM LINKS FOR KS 4

The Ambassador Theatre Group offer anEducation Pack (written by TCP memberMark Palmer) available to download. This provides a great starting point forexploring comparative studies of novel andplay; significant moments of tension andpoignant quotations from key players in thestory and adaptation discussing its “genius,power and success”.

At the theatre, in addition to normalprogrammes there is a speciallycommissioned “Students’ Edition”. This is a useful resource and provides backgroundnotes on features of the play such as thesetting and the narrator as well as posingsome interesting questions for students to consider.

DRAMACreating character how one prop or a singlecostume piece can transform an actor fromone character to another.Discovering successful sound effectsDramatisation of Jennet Humphries story.Place of mime in the theatre.(Consider Spider the dog we never actually “see”)Writing a reviewMEDIA STUDIESExploration of Jennet Humphries story. What treatment might she expect fromtoday’s media?Theatre poster analysis.ENGLISHComparison of respective openings of the novel and the play.Identification of ghost story elements in the playAnalysis of other ghost stories.Creation of a tension graph for each act and presentation of ideasWriting tasksA story where something unexpected occurs.– a dramatic monologue– a Christmas Eve scene with all

the characters

Peter Pan is a powerfully enchantingproduction that captures theimagination of all age groups. J MBarrie’s story alone is woven with all the gossamer for magicalsuccess. It was written 100 yearsago and still holds all the enthrallingqualities of an awe inspiring fairystory for children and adults.

It is a sheer delight to be part of theaudience. You are drawn in and feel apart of the performance. Senses areheightened by the memorable 360vision given to the set and at timesyou feel as though you are actuallyphysically transported and flying overLondon to the enchanting Neverland.

The Darlings’ attic bedroom ispresented to audiences of young andold alike in the round. The productionmakes use of circus conventions withhigh wires, enabling Peter andTinkerbell to make their grandentrances while allowing the Darlingsto leave through the open skylight.This displays them as soaring abovethe rooftops of London and leavingthe comfort of their beds into a landof make believe. The audience istaken on this journey with Peter,Wendy, John and Michael through theuse of a 360° projected image of theThames. As they fly along, they passthe familiar landmarks that makeLondon the city it is. Finally, thechildren pass Tower Bridge and leavethe adult world of responsibility andconformity well and truly behindthem. The cast and crew have createda production that that speaks to theinner child at the heart of those of usthat still risk to say I believe. Harrison’s production makes PeterPan an excellent opportunity forteachers to show their students how

modern technology can fuse thetraditional mediums and elements ofdrama to create this contemporaryperformance.

The production is full of surprises,with almost everything on the stageeither revolving onto a new scene ordisappearing to reveal another world. It is extremely lively from start tofinish, with energy in abundance from the actors. As in all good adventures, thisadaption captures the true spirit ofNeverland. Although a minimalisticproduction it still manages to adaptand expand on J M Barrie's works. Acombination of Pirate ships,Amazonian jungle and underwaterseascapes bring the show to life. Theundersea projection was amazingand has to be one of my favouritescenes. Neverland was completewith Mermaids, Indians and Piratesand so visually captivating.

CURRICULUM LINKS by Lucie DelicateLITERACYKS1 - Traditional Tales • Exploring ‘Good and Evil’

(character description)• Discussions KS1 - Research Original story Peter and Wendy and compare toTheatre productionQuestioning – Characters’ feelings andactions e.g.• Why didn’t the lost boys try to go home?• Was Peter Pan really happy?• Was Captain Hook really mean or just a

sad old man?• Why did they want a mother so badly?

Explore through written work and drama.• Make up your own beginning, middle or

end of the story• Write own interpretation of the storyART AND DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGYAny Key stage could make a class mural –jungle or sea scene using all mixed media

found in the environment e.g. sticks, leaves,sponges, cotton wool etc.KS1•Design and make puppets: string, stick,hand or finger (as resources for Literacydrama activities)

•Design and make a clock face (link withNumeracy - telling time) or pirate masks

KS2• Moving Monsters – Investigate, design

and make models of crocodile or ‘nanny’dog using levers

• Explore bubble maker – make the bestsmallest/largest bubble, consideringsolution and apparatus

• Design and Make the best shaped paper plane to fly the furthest (consider aerodynamics)

• Design and make Wendy House or pirate masks

HISTORY• Did pirates exist and if so when? • What era was the ship from? • Explore history around beginning of the

century through different forms of research• What was life really like for children then? • What was life like at sea? Consider food

and hygiene• Were children allowed on the ships, if so

what was their role?• Consider loyalties – role of leaders• Pirates today! Consider similarities

and differencesGEOGRAPHY• Where is Netherland?• What physical features would you look

for when identifying an appropriate placefor Peter Pan to settle?

• How near the equator would it be? • Why wouldn’t it be near the North or

South Pole? • How could they adapt to colder weather• There base was underground so that they

would be out of sight – was it in a cave, ifnot how did they make it safe?

Feature for Key Stage 1 and 2

Reviews by; Melanie McNie, Head of Performing arts at Edmunds schoolClaire Gordon, Head of Expressive arts, George Green’s SchoolMarshia Dayes, Edexcel, Lucie Delicate and Alexandra Infants.

Peter Pan at the O2

Other London Venues continued

9 Mousetrap Theatre Projects

To book call the tpc hotline on 0871 230 5544

Peter PanIn summer 2009, London’s historicKensington Gardens played host to a unique and remarkable event – aspectacular new stage production of J. M. Barrie's classic story. Now,after sell-out success, Peter Pan flies into the O2 for a strictly limitedChristmas season. Performed ‘in the round’ in aspecially commissioned, state-of-the-art 1300 seat theatre–tent, this acclaimed production includesa breathtaking 360 degreeprojected scenic design. The eventwill take place in the MeridianGardens at the o2. 1 – 3 Dec £15 Age 5+Groups and Schools enquiries 0844 844 212110+ School groups: £12.50,plus 1 seat free for every 10booked (excl 12 – 13 Dec, 19Dec – 3 Jan & 8 Jan – 10 Jan)

based in Cuba, who allows himselfto be recruited into the UK secretservice. Desperate to placateWhitehall, he resorts to lies andfabrications, feeding a series ofhighly ingenious plots andconspiracies to his handlers.9 – 14 Nov£10

Pride AndPrejudiceStarring Susan Hampshire as themarriage-mad Mrs Bennet, one ofJane Austen’s most delightful comiccreations, Jane Austen’s story of thefive Bennet sisters and their pursuitof suitable husbands is the ultimateromantic comedy.23 – 28 Nov£10

Snow WhiteAnd The Seven DwarfsJane Asher will be cooking up astorm as The Wicked Queen inRichmond Theatre’s magicalpantomime Snow White and theSeven Dwarfs. Jane is joined by Pantostalwart Tim Vine whose hilariouslyfast-paced wit and brilliant comictiming, together with the wonderfultalents of Sapphire Elia, star of ITV’s

To book call 0844 871 7651 andquote ‘Stage Directions offer’

Dial M ForMurderConvinced that his wife is having anaffair, Tony plans what must surelybe the perfect murder… until itfalters in the most unexpected way.Set in a claustrophobic andfrightening environment, FrederickKnott’s, intense and darkly grippingthriller, directed by Lucy Bailey willhave you teetering on the edge ofyour seat until the curtain falls.3 –7 Nov£10

Our Man inHavanaThis brand new adaptation ofGraham Greene’s best-selling noveltells the tale of Wormwold, ahapless vacuum cleaner salesman

RichmondTheatre

The O2

Pete

r Pan

O2

Dial M for M

urder Richmond Theatre

Our M

an in Havana Richmond Theatre

...inspiring young people 10

hugely popular Britannia Highpromise a truly spellbinding show.4 Dec at 7pm, Sat 5 Dec at2pm and 7pm£10 Ages 5+

The Woman in BlackUnanimously acclaimed by thecritics, Stephen Mallatratt’sadaptation of Susan Hill’s best-sellingnovel combines the power andintensity of live theatre with acinematic quality inspired by theworld of film noir. Audiences areguaranteed an evening of unremittingtension as they are transported intoa terrifying and ghostly world.12– 16 Jan£10 Ages 8+

To book call tpc hotline 0871 230 5544

Miss JulieSex and power dominateStrindberg’s masterpiece, whichexplores what draws men andwomen together, and makes them

want to destory each other. StephenUnwin directs this major revival, witha cast that includes Daniel Betts,Lucy Briers and Rachel Pickup.Free education pack is available todownload fromwww.rosetheatrekingston.org/education5, 6, 13, 20 Nov 7.30pm £10 Ages 14+

Bedroom FarcePeter Hall directs Alan Ayckbourn’slegendary comedy which shines abrilliant spotlight onto the trials andtribulations of suburban marriage.Cast includes Jane Asher, NicholasLe Prevost, Tony Gardner, FintyWilliams and Orlando Seale. 9, 10, 17, 18 Nov 7.30pm £10 Ages 14+

Rose Theatre

Miss

Jul

ieTh

e Ro

se T

heat

reTreasure Island The Rose Theatre

Bedroom Farce The Rose Theatre

SkelligThe acclaimed Birmingham StageCompany present a magical stage adaptation of David Almond’s awardwinning book, about a young boywhose world is changed forever whenhe discovers a creature hiding in theirgarden shed.4, 5 Dec 7pm £10 Ages 7+

Treasure IslandThe Rose will be transformed into aspecactular world of pirates,shipwrecks and mysterious islandsfor this years magical Christmasshow at the Rose. Adapter KarenLouise Hebden and director StephenUnwin join forces once againfollowing the phenomenal success ofA Christmas Carol in 2008. 11 Dec 7.30pm, 5, 7 Jan 7.30pm £10 Ages 6+

11 Mousetrap Theatre Projects

To book call 0844 412 4300 andquote ‘teachers preview club’.

Rambert DanceCompanyFeaturing Comedy of ChangeRambert brings a rich andsurprising mix of old and new workto Sadler’s Wells this season.Celebrating Darwin year, Comedy ofChange blends dance and sciencein a striking and witty performance,whilst two further works include anew piece by Nigerian/Welshchoreographer Henri Oguike andSiobhan Davies’ five-star Carnival of the Animals.7 Nov at 2.30pm£10 + trans fee Ages 10+

To book call 0845 401 5008 andquote ‘Teachers Preview Club’.

VarekaiCirque de SoleilCirque du Soleil celebrates its 25thanniversary with a special return visitto the Royal Albert Hall with Varekai:its biggest ever London hit. Deep within a forest, at the summitof a volcano, exists an extraordinaryworld—a world where something elseis possible. A world called Varekai.'Acts that make you catch your breath... so fast & so risky you watch in honestamazement’ INDEPENDENT06 – 12 Feb 3pm & Wed7.45pm and Fri 3pm £25 All ages

Sadler’s WellsRoyalAlbert Hall

Soho Theatre

Cirq

ue d

u So

leil

Roya

l Alb

ert H

all

Cirq

ue d

u So

leil

Roya

l Alb

ert H

all

Stick Man

Soho Theatre

To book call 020 7478 0100 andquote ‘Mousetrap TPC’

Stick ManTouching, funny and utterly original,Stick Man is a brand new familyshow from the acclaimed ScampTheatre; adapted from the best-selling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler – creators of The Gruffalo. Packed full ofpuppetry, songs, live music andfunky dancing (and with a specialappearance by Father Christmas!),Stick Man promises more fun thanyou can shake a stick at!www.sohotheatre.com All performances until 18 Dec. £6 Ages 3+

...inspiring young people 12

SouthbankCentre

UnicornTheatreTo book call 0844 847 9910

and quote ‘TPC Offer’

Sandi Toksvig’sChristmasCracker Starring Ronnie CorbettA Christmas cabaret for all the familyhosted by queen of the quips SandiToksvig and starring Ronnie Corbett.The show has festive fun for allincluding sing-alongs and a newversion of Charles Dickens’ AChristmas Carol. Surprise guest starswill feature throughout the run. 16 – 20 Dec50% off all tickets All Ages

Sand

i Tok

svig

’s Ch

ristm

as C

rack

er S

tarri

ng R

onnn

ie C

orbe

tt So

uthb

ank

Cent

reCinderella

Unicorn Theatre

To book call 0844 847 9910 andquote ‘StageDirections offer’

Peter & theWolf Live on StageThe Oscar®-winning animated filmPeter & the Wolf brings to lifeProkofiev’s classic introduction to theorchestra. Featuring the PhilharmoniaOrchestra live on stage, a newly-commissioned script by poet SimonArmitage, and a glimpse into Peter’sworld using a mini-camera to explorethe film’s set and models. Mon 28 – Wed 30 Dec at 4pm and 6pm30 December at 4pm and 6pm20% off all ticket prices. All Ages

To book call 020 7645 0560 andquote ‘teachers preview club’

Time for the GoodLooking BoyYou’re in love, exams are over,summer’s here and the party’sstarted. A young man tells the story of a night to remember withconsequences he’ll never forget. This is a compelling, witty one-manshow about the harsh realities ofgrowing up, independence and ajourney that will change lives forever.17 – 21 Nov£6 Ages 14+

CinderellaThis delightful, screwball version ofthe classic rags-to-riches tale seespoor Cinderella single-handedlyrunning a floating retirement homefor elderly magicians. When thepalace announces a ball to find theyoung prince a wife, Cinderelladreams of escaping her chores for a night, but who’s going to work themagic she needs to get her there?Workshops and Teachers’ Resourcesfor Cinderella available atwww.unicorntheatre.com/for_schools 6 Dec – 24 Jan £6 Ages 6+

Peter and the Wolf Live O

n StageSouthbank Centre

13 Mousetrap Theatre Projects

Touring and Regional

Birmingham Repertory TheatreTo book call 0121 236 4455 and quote ‘Mousetrap 241’Two tickets for the price of onetickets on the following shows anddates (maximum of 2 tickets totalper booking, not available onPremium seats)

A Christmas CarolBy Charles DickensAdapted by Bryony LaveryIt’s Christmas Eve and the most cold-hearted man in London, EbenezerScrooge has no time for merriment.But as the clock strikes midnightScrooge is taken on a vivid journeyby three spirits who show him visionsof his past, present and likely futureshould Scrooge continue with hisuncaring ways. Can the spiritsconvince Scrooge to change his ways in time for Christmas Day?2-4-1 25 Nov

Cling To Me Like IvyBy Samantha Ellis“It’s gorgeous hair you’ve got. It’s a shame to hide it.”

Rivka wants the perfect wedding. She has the man, the dress, the wig and two weeks to go. But whendoubt is cast on her wig everythingstarts to unravel.Samantha Ellis’ play was inspired by a chance remark by VictoriaBeckham which sparked a crisiswithin the Orthodox Jewishcommunity about the wigs worn by married women.2-4-1 11 and 12 FebFor more information visitbirmingham-rep.co.uk

Birmingham Stage Company 2 for 1 on tickets for their 3autumn tours on the followingperformances: George's Marvellous MedicineA brand new stage version by DavidWood of one of Dahl's funnieststories is playing a Christmasseason at Birmingham beforetouring again in 2010

Old Rep Theatre BirminghamSat 21 Nov 2.30pm & Sat 9 Jan at 2.30pm 0121 303 2323 Details of 2010 tour venues atwww.birminghamstage.com SkelligBSC's acclaimed version of DavidAlmond's award winning book is ontour this autumn before playing aLondon Christmas season.

Connaught Theatre Worthing Tues 10 Nov & Fri 13 Nov at 7pm Box office 01903 206206Yvonne Arnaud TheatreGuildford Tues 17 Nov at 7.30pm box office 01483 440 000

Bloomsbury Theatre London Sat 19 Dec & Sat 9 Jan at 2.30pmbox office 0207 388 8822

Horrible Histories BSC's Frightful First World War &Woeful Second World War useactors and amazing 3D specialeffects plus lots of excitement andjokes to give all ages a new insightinto the hardships faced in bothconflicts. See a trailer of the showson www.birminghamstage.comLighthouse Poole Tues 23 Nov at 7pm Box office 0844 406 8666

Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge WellsCharles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol by Neil Bartlett:Trinity is delighted to be staging atruly authentic telling of Dickens’classic tale. Performed by a cast of8 actors playing multiple-roles, theengaging production is fast-movingand superbly theatrical. Familyentertainment for children 7+.Presented by Trinity Theatre and the resident company TTC.www.trinitytheatre.netTrinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells10 Dec – 19 Dec, 28 Dec – 3 Jan(excl Christmas week perfs). £7.50 To book call 01892 678678 andquote ‘Teachers’ Offer’

...inspiring young people 14

This autumn term Mousetrap TheatreProjects is offering a range of activities,programmes and resources of interestto teachers and their students. TheatreCraft Day, Wednesday, 2nd December at theLondon Coliseum, will offer young people (17 – 25) afree opportunity to explore many off-stage skills involvedin creating a theatre production through workshops,talks, demonstrations and one-to-one advice sessions.From 9.30am – 1.00pm, TheatreCraft Day iswelcoming school groups from age 17 who will beintroduced to a range of non-performing careers intheatre. The afternoon session, from 1.00pm – 4.30pm,is designed for individuals moving to the next stage oftheir training or career. To find out more about the event,the range of workshops and talks offered and to book afree place, visit: www.masterclass.org.uk/theatrecraft

Please remember to visit our new teachers’ theatresite: learnaboutlondontheatre.co.uk which hascomprehensive information about the range ofproductions offered through London theatres and theeducational opportunities they provide. Specificallywritten for busy teachers, this website provides a wealthof information on theatre, easily accessible byproduction, by venue, by theatre organisation as well afull list of available workshops and resources.

Learnaboutlondontheatre.co.uk is a joint initiative ofMousetrap Theatre Projects and the Society of LondonTheatre (SOLT) and we would like to hear from youregarding how you find this website. We are veryinterested in your comments and suggestions forimprovement – as we wish to make this website asuseful to you as possible. For any thoughts orsuggestions, please email susan@mousetrap.org.uk

This summer, Mousetrap Theatre Projects completed the 11th year of its signature programme, Family FirstNights (FFN) when 618 families, identified by more than 450 social service agencies, charities, communityorganisations and housing associations, attended theatreon a family visit. Families could choose from 22productions with all tickets at £5.

As a special event on Tuesday, 22nd September,Mousetrap Theatre Projects invited all of the 5,000 past participating FFN families to a performance ofSister Act at the London Palladium. Close to 400 families(1,750 individuals), attended the musical and theexcitement and energy in the auditorium was fantastic.

Funding for our theatre education work is never aneasy proposition, and as ever we are most grateful for the large and small gifts we receive from you, ourTPC members. If you have any ideas for fundraising orknow of any potential funders in the private or publicsector, please do get in touch with us, by emailingnancy@mousetrap.org.uk orsusan@mousetrap.org.uk

Susan’s Letter – Mousetrap wider work

Learn About London Theatre,the quick and easy way forteachers to find out abouteducation programmesoffered by theatres and

theatre productions across London.

This brand new website has been speciallycreated for teachers. So, whether you’re planninga theatre trip, interested in finding out aboutavailable resources and provisions or just keento boost your theatre knowledge, Learn AboutLondon Theatre will instantly navigate you to theinformation you need.

For more information visitwww.learnaboutlondontheatre.co.uk

“This course has been absolutely fab. The supporthas been amazing and I have never seen studentsso excited at the prospect of presenting.”Teacher, Hampton Community College

Do you offer the BTEC inPerforming Arts?Spring term 2010:We have one full place left on StageBusiness, an assignment led programme for KS4 students, supported by an INSET day,theatre visits, workshops with producers and marketingprofessionals, and comprehensive resource materials. We also have a few places left on the INSET only.

Cost: £300 for the full programme (INSET, two studentworkshops and Dragon’s Den style presentation session withprofessional panellists) plus £5 per theatre ticket, OR £100 forthe INSET only.

To Book: Contact linda@mousetrap.org.uk or download anapplication form from our website www.mousetrap.org.uk

Superbreak is pleased to offermembers of TPC a 10% discount onall UK and European short breaks. .This includes great low prices at over 5,000 hotels anddiscounts on a full range of London theatre and eventbreaks. To see the huge range of options available tomembers, please visit www.superbreak.comTo book call 0871 221 1199 and quote ‘Teachers Preview Club’ to claim your extra savings.

Mousetrap Theatre Projects23–24 Henrietta StreetCovent GardenLondon WC2E 8NDT: 020 7240 1248 F: 020 7632 4111E: tpc@mousetrap.org.ukwww.mousetrap.org.uk

Registered charity no. 1053434

UK Tickets, in association with NST,supports Mousetrap Theatre Projects.For more information on organizededucational theatre trips for studentsplease visit www.nstgroup.co.uk

SEE EDUCATION0844 412 4649education@seetickets.comSEE EDUCATION – official ticketingpartner for Teacher’s Preview Club,Mousetrap Theatre Projects.Contact us to receive our new CLASSACT and DVD to receive great rates foryour school Top West End shows from £15.00, plusteacher goes free!