Mixed Heritage Meetup/Discussion

Unexpected Twist is a re-telling of the Charles Dickens classic, Oliver Twist, by one of the best-loved figures in the children’s book world, Michael Rosen. Combining two stories in one; Rosen’s new tale alongside the Dickens classic that inspired it, Artistic Director James Dacre (Olivier Award-nominated Our Lady Of Kibeho) and designer Frankie Bradshaw’s (Two Trains Running) production brings to vivid life the worlds of both Shona and Oliver as their stories twist together, unexpectedly! Adapted for the stage by BAFTA award-winning playwright Roy Williams (Soul, Sucker Punch) with original music by rising R&B star Yaya Bey and BAC Beatbox Academy’s Conrad Murray, Unexpected Twist is a thrilling new production from the producing partnership behind Holes and The Jungle Book that will tour the UK following its Northampton premiere.  Unexpected Twist has choreography by Olivier Award-winning Arielle Smith (Jolly Folly), musical direction by Conrad Murray, lighting design by Rory Beaton (Death Drop), sound design by Leigh Davies (Matilda) with casting by Annelie Powell CDG.  The creative team also includes Sarah Stacey (Associate Director), Gurkiran Kaur (Voice Coach) and Kate Waters (Fight Director).

Following its London premier and sell-out performances in Birmingham, ‘The most immersive and intoxicating way to experience Knight’s now timeless story’ (NME) is on its way to take over the UK. Long-time fans of the TV show and audiences coming fresh to Peaky have been united in their enthusiasm for the ‘vigorous and vibrant performances from the entire cast’ (The Times) where ‘you can never quite tell whether you’re at a dance show or a grungy rock gig’ (The Telegraph). Opening in the trenches of Flanders, a personal story unfolds in post-war industrial Birmingham as the Shelby family navigate the decisions that determine their fate and Tommy is intoxicated by a mysterious newcomer, Grace. Written and adapted for the stage by Peaky Blinders’ creator Steven Knight, with choreography and direction from Rambert’s Artistic Director Benoit Swan Pouffer, this captivating show matches dazzling, athletic dance and stunning dramatisation from the full Rambert company with a live band, specially commissioned music by Roman GianArthur and iconic Peaky tracks from Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds, Radiohead, Anna Calvi, The Last Shadow Puppets, Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club.

Based on Baz Luhrmann’s award-winning worldwide film phenomenon, Strictly Ballroom: The Musical is heading to Northampton as part of a brand-new UK and Ireland tour starring Strictly Come Dancing favourite Kevin Clifton and BBC’s Eastenders’ Maisie Smith! Directed and co-choreographed by Britain’s best loved TV Judge, Craig Revel Horwood, Strictly Ballroom: The Musical follows arrogant, rebellious young ballroom dancer, Scott Hastings (Kevin Clifton). When his radical and daring dance style sees him fall out of favour with Australian Federation, he must dance with beginner, Fran (Maisie Smith). Together they find the courage to defy tradition and discover that to win, your steps don’t need to be strictly ballroom! Featuring smash-hit songs Love Is In the Air, Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps and Time After Time, and all new music written by internationally acclaimed artists including Sia, David Foster and Eddie Perfect. This feel-good ballroom sensation is sure to make for an unforgettable evening under the glitter ball that will send your heart soaring and toes tapping!