There’s magic, mystery and more a foot as we round up some of the best entertainment the Midlands has to offer throughout October
What: The Magic of Middle-earth
Where: The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield
When: September 24 to December 11
The Magic of Middle-earth
A magical treasure trove of objects and artworks are coming to Lichfield in a free exhibition that is a must-see for fans of fantasy and Middle-earth…
“In a hole in the ground there lived a Hobbit…”
With those famous words J.R.R. Tolkien welcomed visitors into Middle-earth, a seemingly living, breathing world both mythical and yet familiar. Regarded as the ‘father’ of modern fantasy literature, Tolkien’s cultural influence has extended far beyond just other authors. Middle-earth has inspired creative minds of all types and acted as a Minecraft-like toolbox for generations of artists, musicians, film makers, environmentalists, and game designers.
The Magic of Middle-earth, September 24 to December 11
The Magic of Middle-earth takes visitors on a journey beyond the books to explore that expansive artistic legacy. Discover jaw-dropping dioramas, stunning paintings, incredible sculptures, even Middle-earth themed Lego sets. With family fun and kids’ activities this is an exciting exhibition for all ages. Whether you’re a little halfling or a wizened wizard you won’t want to miss this one.
Find out more here www.thehubstmarys.co.uk
Check out www.thehubstmarys.co.uk for up-to-date news and information on the exhibition and the additional programme of events and activities to be announced throughout the autumn. The exhibitionis free and runs until December 11 2022.
What: Much Ado About Nothing
Where: Birmingham REP
When: October 4 to 8
“I do love nothing in the world so well as you. Is not that strange?”
Besotted young couple Claudio and Hero have fallen fast and are quickly engaged. Not everyone finds romance so straight forward–Bendick balks at the very thought of it and Beatrice agrees with him, on that if nothing else. But somewhere in this world, there’s someone for everyone, even if they’re right under your nose.
Presented by Sheffield Theatres in association with Ramps on the Moon, this new production of Shakespeare’s raucous comedy is directed by Robert Hastie (Coriolanus, A Midsummer Night’s Dream). Every performance features the use of integrated creative sign language, audio description and captioning.
The Stage says: “This is Shakespeare as it should be: inclusive, accessible and diverse. Ramps on the Moon’s twist is a winning one–this really is as merry as the day is long.”
The Rep is proud to be one of six Ramps venues in a collaborative network led by New Wolsey Theatre and including Theatre Royal Stratford East, Nottingham Playhouse, Leeds Playhouse, and Sheffield Theatres. For more details and to book tickets visit www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
What: Vincente Simone-Tango Passions
Where: Lichfield Garrick
When: October 20
Argentine Tango king and Strictly Come Dancing legend Vincent Simone returns to the stage this month with his brand new show, Tango Passions, alongside Argentine Tango specialist Paula Duarte as his leading lady.
Accompanied by world-class Argentine Tango specialists, let the original Italian stallion take you on a journey to Buenos Aires and enjoy his dancing, tales and poetry about the history of the ArgentineTango. Featuring music from Astor Piazzolla and Gotan Project, this is sure to be a sexy, steamy, passionate night not to be missed.
Vincente Simone-Tango Passions
There are a limited number of VIP Meet and Greet tickets available. Don’t miss your chance to meet Vincent before the show for photo and autograph opportunities, plus a signed print and VIP lanyard. For more details and to book visit www.lichfieldgarrick.com
What: Coppélia
Where: Birmingham Hippodrome
When: October 26 to 29
Love conquers all in Peter Wright’s world-class production of a joyous classic from the golden age of ballet–‘a masterpiece’ (The Stage) brought back to the stage by Birmingham Royal Ballet for the first time in five years, with Léo Delibes’ glorious score performed live by the 60-piece Royal Ballet Sinfonia.
When eccentric toymaker Dr Coppélius leaves his greatest creation, the doll Coppélia, on his work shop balcony, she’s soon causing quite a stir in the village. Swanilda and Franz are getting ready to marry during their hometown’s upcoming festival, just a few days away. When Franz finds his eye wandering towards the mysterious girl on Dr Coppélius’s balcony, Swanilda takes matters into her own hands–butcan she steer her fiancé away from the Doctor’s mystery guest and back towards the path of true love?
Coppélia
Comic chaos is unleashed as Dr Coppélius tries to bring Coppélia to life. Don’t miss this magnificent production of a timeless classic, back for a strictly limited tour in 2022. For more details visit www.birminghamhippodrome.com
What: The Mousetrap
Where: Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham
When: October 31 to November 5
Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap is the world’s longest-running play. This thrilling West End productionis THE genre-defining murder mystery from the best-selling novelist of all time… case closed!
As news spreads of a murder in London, a group of seven strangers find themselves snowed in at a remote countryside guest house. When a police sergeant arrives, the guests discover–to their horror–that a killer is in their midst! Which one is the murderer? Who will be their next victim? Can you solve this world-famous mystery for yourself?
Now celebrating 70 years, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap has kept millions of people from every corner of the globe on the edge of their seats. Could you be next?
Featuring a stellar cast including Todd Carty (EastEnders, The Bill), John Altman (EastEnders) and Gwyneth
Strong (Only Fools and Horses, EastEnders), this is one not to be missed. For more details visit www.atgtickets.com/birmingham
The Mousetrap
