Comics making a big impression

By [rrothery]

AN impressive collection of comics career into town as part of North Devon Theatres' new season of shows.

Top names from the world of comedy heading this way include Simon Amstell, Marcus Brigstocke, Joe Pasquale, Dave Spikey, Stewart Lee and impressionist Alistair McGowan. And if that's not enough laughter to lure you away from your TV sets, how about Grumpy Old Women starring Jenny Eclair, not to mention a host of up and coming acts signed up for the monthly Comedy Club?

"Comedy is often billed as the new rock 'n' roll as it is so popular with audiences, especially in this current climate when everyone could do with a bit of a laugh," said press officer, Sarah Anderson. "What better way to lighten the mood and escape the gloomy news stories by enjoying a couple of hours with some fantastic comedians? North Devon has become one of the main stop off points for great names of the comedy world as they tour around the UK, and this season is no exception."

On the musical front there's an unusual array of delights, including visits from Curtis Stigers; John Etheridge and John Williams; Wishbone Ash and The Hamsters; Charlie Landsborough; Bill Wyman; and Hazel O'Connor.

Fans of classical music won't be left out with the return of the internationally acclaimed Philharmonia Orchestra, the Solstice String Quartet, and a Lunchtime Classical Concert with violinist Jeanine Thorpe.

If, however, tribute shows are more your tonic this little lot should put a smile on your face. Get ready for Rockin' On Heaven's Door, Magic A Kind of Queen, And Finally… Phil Collins, Off the Wall, Ultimate Bowie, Motown's Greatest Hits, The Rocket Man, That'll Be The Day and Made In Britain.

It's a genre that's obviously growing in popularity in North Devon.

"It may not be possible for people to see their favourite artists performing live on stage, so tribute shows offer the chance to hear that music and see a professional production right on their doorstep, and all for a fraction of the price it would cost to see the real thing," said Sarah.

"They also provide brilliant, feel good escapist fun for all music fans."

The Gallery Sessions continue with Sarah McQuaid, Led Bib, Apples and Snakes Performance Poetry, Troyka, Annabelle Chvostek, and the Stan Tracey Quartet.

While for those who like a good play, professional productions this season include Last of the Summer Wine, The Beauty Queen of Leenane, The Vagina Monologues, Absurd Person Singular, and An Evening with the Family. You can also look forward to three local companies presenting The Vicar of Dibley, Blitz, and Oh! What a Lovely War.

Dance enthusiasts will no doubt want to get tickets for the Moscow Ballet's acclaimed production of The Nutcracker. There's also Dancing Feet Academy's The Magic of Hollywood, and Make the Move Performing Arts' latest project Sound and Vision.

Entertainment for the youngest members of the family arrives in the form of the cheeky bear Sooty and his friends Sweep and Soo as they embark on their latest adventure Sooty in Space.

Shakespeare 4 Kidz will be back, too, with their version of Macbeth, a great introduction to the Bard's work for children of all ages.

Those passionate about photography, won't want to miss John Beatty's Wild Vision which promises to be a captivating presentation of his extraordinary photographs and stories.

Finally, rounding off the season, will be the ever popular traditional family pantomime, which this year is Cinderella – oh yes it is!

"With lots of fun, audience participation, wonderful sets, stunning costumes and big dollop of magic, this sparkling new production promises to be the perfect treat for the festive season," added Sarah.

● To find out the details of the above shows phone the box office on 01271 324242 or visit www.north devontheatres.org

For a preview of Torrington's Plough Arts Centre new brochure turn to page 32.