The Corn Exchange in Newbury has announced a diverse array of performances for its Autumn season from celebrated comedians to family-friendly shows, the new season promises something for everyone.
Comedy enthusiasts are in for a treat. Drag Race UK winner Danny Beard will share celebrity insights in “Straight Expectations” on 4th September. National treasure Su Pollard, celebrating 50 years on stage, presents “Still Fully Charged” on 17th September, while Paul Foot’s “Dissolve” follows on 20th September.
Dom Joly’s “The Conspiracy Tour” on 8th October will intrigue conspiracy theory lovers, and Joe Pasquale brings “The New Normal, 40 years of Cack… Continued” on 17th October. The comedy line-up also includes Fin Taylor’s “Ask Your Mother” on 23rd October and Carl Hutchinson’s “Today Years Old” on 31st October.
The theatre programme boasts a range of captivating shows. Musical comedy revue “I Wish My Life Were Like a Musical” kicks off on 29th August, followed by “Buffy Revamped” on 10th September. Richard Jones’ “Soldier of Illusion” on 19th September will amaze with magic. Notable mentions include “Black is the Color of My Voice” on 9th October, inspired by Nina Simone, and “Casting the Runes” on 29th October, a puppet-based ghost story. “Windrush Secret” on 16th October and musical murder mystery “Murder for Two” on 12th-13th November round out the theatre offerings.
Family-friendly entertainment includes the Olivier Award-nominated “The Tiger Who Came to Tea” from 25th-27th October, and Mark Thompson’s “Spectacular Science Show” on 2nd November. Dance enthusiasts will enjoy Crown Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” on 22nd September and Ballet Cymru’s “Daydreams and Jellybeans” on 3rd November. “Pathways” on 6th November features British South Asian dancers.
Music lovers can look forward to a variety of concerts. Herman’s Hermits perform on 5th September, while “Rock For Heroes” follows on 12th September. The schedule also includes “An Evening of Classic Reggae: Paying Tribute” on 13th September, “The Ultimate Boyband Party Show” on 14th September, and “Rachel Tucker: You’re Already Home” on 15th September. Other highlights are “The Magic of the Bee Gees” on 27th September and “Story of Soul” on 28th September.
October brings “Musicals the Ultimate Live Band Sing-Along” on 10th October, the “Johnny Cash Roadshow” on 11th October, and “Chaka – The Music of Chaka Khan” on 12th October. “The Rocket Man” on 19th October celebrates Elton John’s career.
Sports fans will not want to miss “Last Man Standing” on 15th October, featuring Sir Geoff Hurst MBE, the sole surviving member of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning team.
Finally, the festive season is heralded by the annual pantomime, “Dick Whittington,” from 29th November to 5th January.
To mark a decade of 101 Outdoor Arts, “Ablaze” from 13th-15th September will illuminate the Kennet and Avon Canal with fire sculptures and live music. The season also includes lantern-making workshops and the annual Festival of Light procession on 15th December.
Jessica Jhundoo-Evans, Director of Corn Exchange Newbury, commented, “We are thrilled to announce a brand-new season of fantastic shows, workshops, and events. Whether for a night out with friends or some quieter inspiration, we have a plentiful buffet of options.
“I find Autumn is always a perfect time to get out and have your fill of arts and culture. I’d encourage everyone to take a look and be enticed to come and see something different for 2024.”
