After the recent death of an anarchist in police custody, the Metropolitan Police are feeling on edge. In steps a man only known as ‘The Maniac’, who inveigles his way into the police station and leads his own inquiry into the death, causing chaos as the Superintendent and his men desperately try and cover their backs. First written in the 1970’s and brought right up to date for a barnstorming run last year in London’s West End, Accidental Death Of An Anarchist is a hilarious satire taking aim at the police, government, and each and every one of us. A rallying cry against injustice, this show will have you creased up with laughter and questioning your life choices in equal measure. ACCESS The matinee on Sat 2 November will be accompanied by a BSL interpreter. AGE RESTRICTION This performance contains adult themes and very strong language, so we recommend a minimum age of 16. Written by Dario Fo and Franco Rama, in a new version by Tom Basden. And amateur production by arrangement with Nick Hern Books.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
DISCOUNT PERFORMANCES: Fri 13 Dec (7.30pm), Sat 14 Dec (1pm & 5.30pm) & Sun 15 Dec ( 1pm & 5.30pm) SIGNED PERFORMANCES: Sat 14 Dec (5.30pm) & Sat 28 Dec (1pm) RELAXED PERFORMANCE: Sun 15 Dec (5:30pm) Written & Directed by Dario Knight | Music by Stephen J Davies Prepare to embark on a thrilling all-new pantomime adventure to the Unbound Library, where books really do come to life! The Unbound Library is one of the wonders of the wide world – the biggest collection of stories ever assembled! Legend has it that the library’s owner – the Great Storyteller – possesses magic so powerful that they can pull a story from the page and make it come to life before your very eyes. The spell is a closely guarded secret – one a rival storyteller is determined to steal… This year's pantomime weaves a brand new fairytale together with all of the panto staples audiences love: sing-a-long songs, riotous slapstick routines, dazzling dances, and plenty of audience participation! Prepare for a show like no other, as the award-winning volunteer artists and makers of Queens Park Arts Centre unveil their most beautiful (and ambitious) array of handmade scenery, costumes and props to date! The show is produced by Queens Park’s in-house storytelling company Unbound, and once again features amazing dance routines choreographed and performed by SDSD. Show Run-time (incl. interval): 2hrs Praise for previous Queens Park pantomimes: "Truly brilliant, we laughed ourselves silly." "It was stunning - the professionals couldn't out-do you." "Absolutely fantastic. My children loved it and will be talking about it for quite a long time to come. Thanks to all the cast & crew who made it such a brilliant night."
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Fri 24 Jan & Sat 25 Jan 7.30pm Set in a 1970s TV show interview format this theatre production portrays the fascinating tale of Freddie Burretti, David Bowie’s close friend and key early 1970s Ziggy Stardust costume designer.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Sat 15 Feb 8pm CODA - a Tribute to Led Zeppelin are Europe's most authentic and exciting Led Zeppelin tribute band, replicating the power, excitement and magic of a Led Zeppelin show like no other. They are the only proper four-piece Zep tribute band in Europe that looks and sounds as close to the real thing as possible, featuring authentic-looking and sounding instruments as well as incredible, hand- made replica costumes that will take you back to the time when the Gods of Rock ruled the world! Every show features a fantastic selection from classic Led Zeppelin songs such as Whole Lotta Love, Stairway to Heaven, Rock and Roll, Black Dog, as well as Led Zeppelin live rarities such as When the Levee Breaks, Ramble On, Wanton Song and much more. The band can also perform a wide variety of Led Zeppelin's acoustic songs such as Going to California and That's the Way and every year CODA add more and more new songs to their repertoire. CODA's show takes its inspiration from the studio recordings, as well as official (and unofficial!) live recordings to bring you the best of all facets of Led Zeppelin. If you like your Led Zeppelin tribute band with big hair, all the stage moves and excitement of the original band, an incredible attention to detail unrivalled by any other Led Zeppelin tribute band, a singer with all the range and power of Robert Plant, a guitarist with all the riffs and groove of Jimmy Page, a drummer with the feel and power of John Bonham and a multi- instrumental bassist like John Paul Jones, this is the Led Zeppelin tribute band for you!
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Our ever-popular comedy night at the Limelight Theatre. See below for upcoming dates / line-ups. FRIDAY 11 OCT (Doors 7pm, Show starts 8pm) LINE UP: KATE LUCAS PAULINE EYRE STELLA GRAHAM PLEASE NOTE: All line-ups are subject to change
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Fri 17 Jan 8pm A laugh-a-minute variety show that combines live music, comedy, magic, prize bingo and more into one hilarious night of live entertainment.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Fri 7 Feb & Sat 8 Feb 8pm Written by Dario Knight Produced by Unbound A haunting new one-act play from the writer of the acclaimed ‘Regency Theatre Trilogy’. Comedy star Sidney Braithwaite died a long time ago. His films are no longer shown, his blue plaques have been struck down, and his name is spoken only in dark corners and Netflix true crime series. The world moved on from ‘Simply Sid’, but all things that pass are destined to be revisited. The head of a failing film studio has a plan to bring Braithwaite back through the murky realm of AI, using the controversial fallen star to revive his company’s fortunes. However, not everyone clamors to see Simply Sid’s encore performance. His daughter Louise is on a mission to stop the studio from making the film – but she’s about to find that her father left far more than bad memories behind when he last left the stage… Praise for ‘The Regency Theatre Trilogy’: “What an amazing evening! I cried I laughed then cried some more. The plays were all so well written…it’s a night I won’t forget for a long time.” “So so clever; the concept, the writing, the set, tech and delivered brilliantly by awesome actors... you must go see.” “A very highly professional, quality play in all departments: writing, acting, directing.”
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Saturday 30 November 7pm Quiz nights are back! Tuck into tasty fish and chips and then test the little grey cells! Hosts Grace & Faye will be setting the questions at this special fundraising event. Teams of 6 people max. Ticket holders will be contacted to confirm their food order - vegetarian option available.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Sat 1 Feb 8pm Hillier Prendergast acoustic duo with Mike Ashton on percussion Steve Hillier and Danny Prendergast play their own arrangements for two acoustic guitars and two voices, covering songs from Bacharach to Beatles to Bowie and many, many more. From easy-listening golden greats to jazz standards to rock and pop classics, the sheer breadth of styles will keep the entertainment coming, each song rendered with a musical purity that the acoustic format allows. Joining Steve and Danny on their guitars is percussionist Mike Ashton, playing a variety of instruments from washboard to bongos to tambourines and more! (Incidentally, all three also play in well-known rock band The Dung Beatles!) Get your tickets now to enjoy this special event at the atmospheric Limelight Theatre
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Duos come and duos go, and some nurture and fine tune their art and watch it grow into something totally original and captivating. For over a quarter of a century Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman’s partnership has proved personal, permanent and pivotal. From their early days in folk supergroup ‘Equation ‘ through to their new album, Almost A Sunset, this multi award-winning musical couple continue to exude timeless class with their exquisite brand of traditional and contemporary acoustic music. 2024 sees them release ’The Collection’. 18 of their most loved songs compiled into one seamless album.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Keith James in concert The Songs of Leonard Cohen Sat 11 Jan 8pm These remarkable songs - stripped back, honest, naked and sensual. ‘There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in’ Cohen’s most memorable and visionary line from his song ANTHEM. If ever there was a sentence in modern poetry to reflect on and give hope and understanding to us all, it is this line. This Concert begins with ANTHEM. Enigmatic, mysterious and sub textural, songwriter Leonard Cohen was an unflinching character, with an exact sense of prose, wry humour and the courage to wrestle with the unspoken, forgiving human frailty and indulgence with the stroke of each word. The very beginning of Leonard Cohen as a songwriter happened during the 1960’s on the Greek Island of Hydra where he met Marianne Ihlen, the love of his life. He was spending his time on Hydra writing a novel and a collection of poetry; it was Marianne who encouraged him to turn many of the poems into songs; Bird on a Wire being the most notable. The chilling announcement of Leonard's death marked the end of an era. His music befriended an entire generation. Within every line of his writing, he has been challenging us to listen more carefully, speak more thoughtfully, think more deeply and recognize our own vulnerability. Our World misses him very much. With a lifetime reputation of performing in this exact way and an undying love of the ‘pure song’ Keith James gives you a concert of Cohen’s amazing material in the most intimate and sensitive way imaginable, exposing the solitary inner strength of his greatest songs in their original perfect form. Keith has performed an extensive tour of this concert in Theatres and Arts Centres across the UK, giving almost 500 concerts to more than 200,000 people. This has proved to be ‘life changing’ and one of the greatest honours in Keith James’ 50 year career in music.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Sat 26 Apr 2025 8pm Nobody writes songs like MARK HARRISON. Constantly touring and multi-awards-nominated, Mark Harrison has a reputation for being unlike anyone else out there. Described at BBC Radio 2 as an artist who ‘makes you think afresh’, and by countless audience members and reviewers as ‘uplifting and ‘inspirational’, his highly individual music takes him to some of the top venues and festivals in the UK, attracting acclaim wherever he goes. Mark writes songs about things most people live and think about but don’t hear songs about, and songs that tell stories they haven’t heard before. Proper songs, with catchy melodies and memorable lyrics that you can hear. Mark’s live shows are well-known not only for the memorable songs but also for his introductions to them, delivered in a manner often described as ‘wry’ and ‘dry’. Mark has been frequently heard on BBC Radio 2, including on its Pick of the Week show on a playlist containing many of the world’s top pop artists. Mark has a unique sound and style that is very much his own genre, and incorporates elements of classic roots, folk and blues. He has been compared to classic artists of the golden era such as The Band, Ry Cooder and Little Feat. It’s music to make you smile, think and move. Mark has released eight albums, which have been unanimously acclaimed across a wide range of areas of the music world, receiving a very great deal of airplay and highly enthusiastic reviews in the UK, Europe and the US. With his outstanding tunes, wry observations, striking rhythms and stunning guitar playing, Mark Harrison is widely considered one of the most original and interesting artists around. You won’t hear anything else quite like him. • Everybody should be talking about Mark Harrison (Classic Rock magazine) • He takes very real things that happen in life and makes you think afresh about them (Paul Jones, BBC Radio 2) • a bit different and kinda groovy too (Cerys Matthews, BBC Radio 2) • a fantastic musician, he's got a great voice and what a songwriter! What a glorious sound he makes (Frank Hennessey, BBC Radio) • great stage presence … innovative…… if Top Of The Pops was still around, he might well be on it’ (Jazz FM) • perhaps all you need is empathy for other people’s lives. Mark has that (Folking) • charismatic live performances (RnR magazine) • fresh as morning sunshine and as sharp as a well-honed razor (Folkwords) www.markharrisonrootsmusic.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Mim Grey - "The Garden of Me Tour" Join us for an unforgettable evening with the illustrious Mim Grey, as she returns to the stage with her long-awaited third album, "The Garden of Me." This album was co-produced with legendary guitarist Robbie McIntosh, known for his work with The Pretenders, Norah Jones, John Mayer, and Paul McCartney. Reflecting on the recording process, Mim shared, "Creating 'Garden of Me' was a truly magical experience. Collaborating with Robbie McIntosh and the production team allowed us to channel the essence of the songs seamlessly. The result is an album of music that speaks from the heart, and I am thrilled to share it with the world." Now, Mim is eager to bring these new songs to the stage, where her heartfelt performances and captivating presence promise to create an enchanting live experience for all who attend. Born and raised in North London, Mim has captivated audiences globally as the singer of choice for many noted bands and musicians. Music icons like Sir Tom Jones and Michael Ball have praised her, with Jones calling her his favourite singer and Ball declaring her "the most beautiful voice to come out of the UK in a very long time." Don't miss the chance to experience Mim Grey live on "The Garden of Me Tour" at the Limelight Theatre. Be prepared for an evening of soul-stirring music from an artist who truly sings from the heart. www.mimgrey.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Friday 18 October 7.30pm Join Prestwood Players for this special interactive murder mystery evening, complete with fish & chips! ‘The Wake’ by Archie Wilson Havelock Cartwright, world famous magician and illusionist, has died after a long, painful illness. A big, though obnoxious man in all ways he amazed people the world over with his tricks and illusions amassing a vast fortune in the process. He lived in a large mansion (the House of Illusion) with all his family each of whom inhabit a separate wing. On his deathbed he instructed his friend and family solicitor Hubert Clegghorn to inform everybody that he did not want to be mourned - but to hold a riotous wake in his honour. During the wake Hubert was to read out his will, which had been drawn up by a firm of independent solicitors, so that family friends and mourners could find out exactly what the old man had left for them. Chaos ensues! Ticket price includes fish & chips! Ticket holders will be contacted to confirm food orders - vegetarian option available.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
This December, the Limelight Theatre will be transformed into the Unbound Library, ready for this year’s all-new (but all-traditional!) pantomime ‘The Storyteller’. However, before the Library opens its doors, there’s a chance to sneak into its hallowed halls and discover three mini panto adventures! Each one-hour show recounts a classic pantomime story, with one of the Unbound Storytellers narrating the tale whilst a plucky band of actors perform all of the characters. Expect everything you want from a pantomime – brilliant stories, sing-a-long songs, a dollop of slapstick, and some dangerously-fast costume changes! ‘Panto Tales’ is the perfect prologue to this year’s epic pantomime adventure. Come and discover the magic of the Unbound Library this Christmas! Performance Schedule: Sat 23 November – ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ Sat 30 November – ‘Dick Whittington’ Sat 7 December – ‘Cinderella’ www.unboundtheatre.co.uk
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Fri 7 Mar 2025 7.30pm An evening of wartime letters between the actress Celia Johnson (Brief Encounter) and her husband Peter Fleming read by Lucy Fleming (their daughter) and Simon Williams. These touching and amusing letters from Celia to her husband tell of her experiences during the war – from coping with a large isolated house full of evacuated children, learning to drive a tractor, dealing with rationing, becoming an auxiliary police-woman in Henley-on-Thames, and all the while accepting offers, when she could get away, to act – for David Lean, Noel Coward, in wartime propaganda films, broadcasts, all sorts, and ultimately in 1945 starring in the classic film Brief Encounter for which she was Oscar-nominated. Peter Fleming was away for most of the war - he writes about his adventures and trials working on deception in India and the Far East. Not only are the letters highly engaging, but they also provide a fascinating historical insight into that time of true austerity and fearfulness. www.postingletterstothemoon.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Renowned Westcountry songwriter Steve Knightley, former Show of Hands frontman, announces a groundbreaking nationwide solo tour—the first since the iconic band disbanded. Focused on promoting his latest album, 'The Winter Yards,' this tour signifies a profound shift in Knightley's musical journey. Booked by Midnight Mango, the move is a calculated step for the seasoned artist. The agency stated, "We are proud to be involved in the launch of the fresh chapter in the remarkable career of legendary songwriter Steve Knightley.” Notably, the tour includes Knightley's inaugural performances in Scotland and Ireland, expanding the geographical reach of his musical influence. With a reputation for haunting narrative songs and captivating storytelling, fans can anticipate Knightley's solo career as a powerful and evocative continuation of his influential legacy in Acoustic music.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Sat 1 March 8pm - 10.30pm Bar opens at 7.30pm The Atomic Prune are an energetic, young blues-rock trio from Aylesbury. They are inspired by the music of Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac and B.B King, mixed with Cream and Rory Gallagher. Their members have also jammed with Catfish and the Cinelli Brothers, as well as opening for Will Wilde in Oxford in 2018. With plenty of original material spanning the whole of the blues spectrum (as well as some well-picked covers) this will be a night of joyful music for all! Don't miss out!
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Sunday 8pm Join us for the monthly Gilded Cage Open Mic – an opportunity for anyone and everyone to step up onto the Limelight Theatre stage. You might be a musician, signer, comedian, poet, storyteller, juggler or magician; all are welcome to perform in this friendly, informal evening showcasing and celebrating local talent. Each act gets a 10-15min slot (depending on how many acts we have on the bill!) Entry is by donation – please consider giving whatever you can to support QPAC’s ongoing refurbishment and fundraising. Note: if bringing a backing track, please ensure it’s on a device with a headphone socket / adaptor. PA is provided with Direct Input for instruments (bring a cable if you have one!). There’ll be a piano on stage.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Fri 25 Oct & Sat 26 Oct 7.30pm Written by Ade Morris Directed by Sandie King Produced by Unbound A classic period drama, with a twist… In the vault of the British Museum, history is hurtling into the present day. Jane Parr has been exploring her ancestry, and with the help of some unlikely guides, she’s about to discover the story of Emma Bennett. Miss Bennett is aboard her romantic brigantine in 1804, but where is she sailing to? And, two centuries later, what is her descendant Jane really hiding from in the whispering museum vault? This special production is presented by QPAC’s in-house storytelling company, Unbound, by kind permission of Micheline Steinberg Associates.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
After the recent death of an anarchist in police custody, the Metropolitan Police are feeling on edge. In steps a man only known as ‘The Maniac’, who inveigles his way into the police station and leads his own inquiry into the death, causing chaos as the Superintendent and his men desperately try and cover their backs. First written in the 1970’s and brought right up to date for a barnstorming run last year in London’s West End, Accidental Death Of An Anarchist is a hilarious satire taking aim at the police, government, and each and every one of us. A rallying cry against injustice, this show will have you creased up with laughter and questioning your life choices in equal measure. ACCESS The matinee on Sat 2 November will be accompanied by a BSL interpreter. AGE RESTRICTION This performance contains adult themes and very strong language, so we recommend a minimum age of 16. Written by Dario Fo and Franco Rama, in a new version by Tom Basden. And amateur production by arrangement with Nick Hern Books.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
DISCOUNT PERFORMANCES: Fri 13 Dec (7.30pm), Sat 14 Dec (1pm & 5.30pm) & Sun 15 Dec ( 1pm & 5.30pm) SIGNED PERFORMANCES: Sat 14 Dec (5.30pm) & Sat 28 Dec (1pm) RELAXED PERFORMANCE: Sun 15 Dec (5:30pm) Written & Directed by Dario Knight | Music by Stephen J Davies Prepare to embark on a thrilling all-new pantomime adventure to the Unbound Library, where books really do come to life! The Unbound Library is one of the wonders of the wide world – the biggest collection of stories ever assembled! Legend has it that the library’s owner – the Great Storyteller – possesses magic so powerful that they can pull a story from the page and make it come to life before your very eyes. The spell is a closely guarded secret – one a rival storyteller is determined to steal… This year's pantomime weaves a brand new fairytale together with all of the panto staples audiences love: sing-a-long songs, riotous slapstick routines, dazzling dances, and plenty of audience participation! Prepare for a show like no other, as the award-winning volunteer artists and makers of Queens Park Arts Centre unveil their most beautiful (and ambitious) array of handmade scenery, costumes and props to date! The show is produced by Queens Park’s in-house storytelling company Unbound, and once again features amazing dance routines choreographed and performed by SDSD. Show Run-time (incl. interval): 2hrs Praise for previous Queens Park pantomimes: "Truly brilliant, we laughed ourselves silly." "It was stunning - the professionals couldn't out-do you." "Absolutely fantastic. My children loved it and will be talking about it for quite a long time to come. Thanks to all the cast & crew who made it such a brilliant night."
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Fri 24 Jan & Sat 25 Jan 7.30pm Set in a 1970s TV show interview format this theatre production portrays the fascinating tale of Freddie Burretti, David Bowie’s close friend and key early 1970s Ziggy Stardust costume designer.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Sat 15 Feb 8pm CODA - a Tribute to Led Zeppelin are Europe's most authentic and exciting Led Zeppelin tribute band, replicating the power, excitement and magic of a Led Zeppelin show like no other. They are the only proper four-piece Zep tribute band in Europe that looks and sounds as close to the real thing as possible, featuring authentic-looking and sounding instruments as well as incredible, hand- made replica costumes that will take you back to the time when the Gods of Rock ruled the world! Every show features a fantastic selection from classic Led Zeppelin songs such as Whole Lotta Love, Stairway to Heaven, Rock and Roll, Black Dog, as well as Led Zeppelin live rarities such as When the Levee Breaks, Ramble On, Wanton Song and much more. The band can also perform a wide variety of Led Zeppelin's acoustic songs such as Going to California and That's the Way and every year CODA add more and more new songs to their repertoire. CODA's show takes its inspiration from the studio recordings, as well as official (and unofficial!) live recordings to bring you the best of all facets of Led Zeppelin. If you like your Led Zeppelin tribute band with big hair, all the stage moves and excitement of the original band, an incredible attention to detail unrivalled by any other Led Zeppelin tribute band, a singer with all the range and power of Robert Plant, a guitarist with all the riffs and groove of Jimmy Page, a drummer with the feel and power of John Bonham and a multi- instrumental bassist like John Paul Jones, this is the Led Zeppelin tribute band for you!
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Our ever-popular comedy night at the Limelight Theatre. See below for upcoming dates / line-ups. FRIDAY 11 OCT (Doors 7pm, Show starts 8pm) LINE UP: KATE LUCAS PAULINE EYRE STELLA GRAHAM PLEASE NOTE: All line-ups are subject to change
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Fri 17 Jan 8pm A laugh-a-minute variety show that combines live music, comedy, magic, prize bingo and more into one hilarious night of live entertainment.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Fri 7 Feb & Sat 8 Feb 8pm Written by Dario Knight Produced by Unbound A haunting new one-act play from the writer of the acclaimed ‘Regency Theatre Trilogy’. Comedy star Sidney Braithwaite died a long time ago. His films are no longer shown, his blue plaques have been struck down, and his name is spoken only in dark corners and Netflix true crime series. The world moved on from ‘Simply Sid’, but all things that pass are destined to be revisited. The head of a failing film studio has a plan to bring Braithwaite back through the murky realm of AI, using the controversial fallen star to revive his company’s fortunes. However, not everyone clamors to see Simply Sid’s encore performance. His daughter Louise is on a mission to stop the studio from making the film – but she’s about to find that her father left far more than bad memories behind when he last left the stage… Praise for ‘The Regency Theatre Trilogy’: “What an amazing evening! I cried I laughed then cried some more. The plays were all so well written…it’s a night I won’t forget for a long time.” “So so clever; the concept, the writing, the set, tech and delivered brilliantly by awesome actors... you must go see.” “A very highly professional, quality play in all departments: writing, acting, directing.”
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Saturday 30 November 7pm Quiz nights are back! Tuck into tasty fish and chips and then test the little grey cells! Hosts Grace & Faye will be setting the questions at this special fundraising event. Teams of 6 people max. Ticket holders will be contacted to confirm their food order - vegetarian option available.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Sat 1 Feb 8pm Hillier Prendergast acoustic duo with Mike Ashton on percussion Steve Hillier and Danny Prendergast play their own arrangements for two acoustic guitars and two voices, covering songs from Bacharach to Beatles to Bowie and many, many more. From easy-listening golden greats to jazz standards to rock and pop classics, the sheer breadth of styles will keep the entertainment coming, each song rendered with a musical purity that the acoustic format allows. Joining Steve and Danny on their guitars is percussionist Mike Ashton, playing a variety of instruments from washboard to bongos to tambourines and more! (Incidentally, all three also play in well-known rock band The Dung Beatles!) Get your tickets now to enjoy this special event at the atmospheric Limelight Theatre
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Duos come and duos go, and some nurture and fine tune their art and watch it grow into something totally original and captivating. For over a quarter of a century Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman’s partnership has proved personal, permanent and pivotal. From their early days in folk supergroup ‘Equation ‘ through to their new album, Almost A Sunset, this multi award-winning musical couple continue to exude timeless class with their exquisite brand of traditional and contemporary acoustic music. 2024 sees them release ’The Collection’. 18 of their most loved songs compiled into one seamless album.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Keith James in concert The Songs of Leonard Cohen Sat 11 Jan 8pm These remarkable songs - stripped back, honest, naked and sensual. ‘There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in’ Cohen’s most memorable and visionary line from his song ANTHEM. If ever there was a sentence in modern poetry to reflect on and give hope and understanding to us all, it is this line. This Concert begins with ANTHEM. Enigmatic, mysterious and sub textural, songwriter Leonard Cohen was an unflinching character, with an exact sense of prose, wry humour and the courage to wrestle with the unspoken, forgiving human frailty and indulgence with the stroke of each word. The very beginning of Leonard Cohen as a songwriter happened during the 1960’s on the Greek Island of Hydra where he met Marianne Ihlen, the love of his life. He was spending his time on Hydra writing a novel and a collection of poetry; it was Marianne who encouraged him to turn many of the poems into songs; Bird on a Wire being the most notable. The chilling announcement of Leonard's death marked the end of an era. His music befriended an entire generation. Within every line of his writing, he has been challenging us to listen more carefully, speak more thoughtfully, think more deeply and recognize our own vulnerability. Our World misses him very much. With a lifetime reputation of performing in this exact way and an undying love of the ‘pure song’ Keith James gives you a concert of Cohen’s amazing material in the most intimate and sensitive way imaginable, exposing the solitary inner strength of his greatest songs in their original perfect form. Keith has performed an extensive tour of this concert in Theatres and Arts Centres across the UK, giving almost 500 concerts to more than 200,000 people. This has proved to be ‘life changing’ and one of the greatest honours in Keith James’ 50 year career in music.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Sat 26 Apr 2025 8pm Nobody writes songs like MARK HARRISON. Constantly touring and multi-awards-nominated, Mark Harrison has a reputation for being unlike anyone else out there. Described at BBC Radio 2 as an artist who ‘makes you think afresh’, and by countless audience members and reviewers as ‘uplifting and ‘inspirational’, his highly individual music takes him to some of the top venues and festivals in the UK, attracting acclaim wherever he goes. Mark writes songs about things most people live and think about but don’t hear songs about, and songs that tell stories they haven’t heard before. Proper songs, with catchy melodies and memorable lyrics that you can hear. Mark’s live shows are well-known not only for the memorable songs but also for his introductions to them, delivered in a manner often described as ‘wry’ and ‘dry’. Mark has been frequently heard on BBC Radio 2, including on its Pick of the Week show on a playlist containing many of the world’s top pop artists. Mark has a unique sound and style that is very much his own genre, and incorporates elements of classic roots, folk and blues. He has been compared to classic artists of the golden era such as The Band, Ry Cooder and Little Feat. It’s music to make you smile, think and move. Mark has released eight albums, which have been unanimously acclaimed across a wide range of areas of the music world, receiving a very great deal of airplay and highly enthusiastic reviews in the UK, Europe and the US. With his outstanding tunes, wry observations, striking rhythms and stunning guitar playing, Mark Harrison is widely considered one of the most original and interesting artists around. You won’t hear anything else quite like him. • Everybody should be talking about Mark Harrison (Classic Rock magazine) • He takes very real things that happen in life and makes you think afresh about them (Paul Jones, BBC Radio 2) • a bit different and kinda groovy too (Cerys Matthews, BBC Radio 2) • a fantastic musician, he's got a great voice and what a songwriter! What a glorious sound he makes (Frank Hennessey, BBC Radio) • great stage presence … innovative…… if Top Of The Pops was still around, he might well be on it’ (Jazz FM) • perhaps all you need is empathy for other people’s lives. Mark has that (Folking) • charismatic live performances (RnR magazine) • fresh as morning sunshine and as sharp as a well-honed razor (Folkwords) www.markharrisonrootsmusic.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Mim Grey - "The Garden of Me Tour" Join us for an unforgettable evening with the illustrious Mim Grey, as she returns to the stage with her long-awaited third album, "The Garden of Me." This album was co-produced with legendary guitarist Robbie McIntosh, known for his work with The Pretenders, Norah Jones, John Mayer, and Paul McCartney. Reflecting on the recording process, Mim shared, "Creating 'Garden of Me' was a truly magical experience. Collaborating with Robbie McIntosh and the production team allowed us to channel the essence of the songs seamlessly. The result is an album of music that speaks from the heart, and I am thrilled to share it with the world." Now, Mim is eager to bring these new songs to the stage, where her heartfelt performances and captivating presence promise to create an enchanting live experience for all who attend. Born and raised in North London, Mim has captivated audiences globally as the singer of choice for many noted bands and musicians. Music icons like Sir Tom Jones and Michael Ball have praised her, with Jones calling her his favourite singer and Ball declaring her "the most beautiful voice to come out of the UK in a very long time." Don't miss the chance to experience Mim Grey live on "The Garden of Me Tour" at the Limelight Theatre. Be prepared for an evening of soul-stirring music from an artist who truly sings from the heart. www.mimgrey.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Friday 18 October 7.30pm Join Prestwood Players for this special interactive murder mystery evening, complete with fish & chips! ‘The Wake’ by Archie Wilson Havelock Cartwright, world famous magician and illusionist, has died after a long, painful illness. A big, though obnoxious man in all ways he amazed people the world over with his tricks and illusions amassing a vast fortune in the process. He lived in a large mansion (the House of Illusion) with all his family each of whom inhabit a separate wing. On his deathbed he instructed his friend and family solicitor Hubert Clegghorn to inform everybody that he did not want to be mourned - but to hold a riotous wake in his honour. During the wake Hubert was to read out his will, which had been drawn up by a firm of independent solicitors, so that family friends and mourners could find out exactly what the old man had left for them. Chaos ensues! Ticket price includes fish & chips! Ticket holders will be contacted to confirm food orders - vegetarian option available.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
This December, the Limelight Theatre will be transformed into the Unbound Library, ready for this year’s all-new (but all-traditional!) pantomime ‘The Storyteller’. However, before the Library opens its doors, there’s a chance to sneak into its hallowed halls and discover three mini panto adventures! Each one-hour show recounts a classic pantomime story, with one of the Unbound Storytellers narrating the tale whilst a plucky band of actors perform all of the characters. Expect everything you want from a pantomime – brilliant stories, sing-a-long songs, a dollop of slapstick, and some dangerously-fast costume changes! ‘Panto Tales’ is the perfect prologue to this year’s epic pantomime adventure. Come and discover the magic of the Unbound Library this Christmas! Performance Schedule: Sat 23 November – ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ Sat 30 November – ‘Dick Whittington’ Sat 7 December – ‘Cinderella’ www.unboundtheatre.co.uk
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Fri 7 Mar 2025 7.30pm An evening of wartime letters between the actress Celia Johnson (Brief Encounter) and her husband Peter Fleming read by Lucy Fleming (their daughter) and Simon Williams. These touching and amusing letters from Celia to her husband tell of her experiences during the war – from coping with a large isolated house full of evacuated children, learning to drive a tractor, dealing with rationing, becoming an auxiliary police-woman in Henley-on-Thames, and all the while accepting offers, when she could get away, to act – for David Lean, Noel Coward, in wartime propaganda films, broadcasts, all sorts, and ultimately in 1945 starring in the classic film Brief Encounter for which she was Oscar-nominated. Peter Fleming was away for most of the war - he writes about his adventures and trials working on deception in India and the Far East. Not only are the letters highly engaging, but they also provide a fascinating historical insight into that time of true austerity and fearfulness. www.postingletterstothemoon.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Renowned Westcountry songwriter Steve Knightley, former Show of Hands frontman, announces a groundbreaking nationwide solo tour—the first since the iconic band disbanded. Focused on promoting his latest album, 'The Winter Yards,' this tour signifies a profound shift in Knightley's musical journey. Booked by Midnight Mango, the move is a calculated step for the seasoned artist. The agency stated, "We are proud to be involved in the launch of the fresh chapter in the remarkable career of legendary songwriter Steve Knightley.” Notably, the tour includes Knightley's inaugural performances in Scotland and Ireland, expanding the geographical reach of his musical influence. With a reputation for haunting narrative songs and captivating storytelling, fans can anticipate Knightley's solo career as a powerful and evocative continuation of his influential legacy in Acoustic music.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Sat 1 March 8pm - 10.30pm Bar opens at 7.30pm The Atomic Prune are an energetic, young blues-rock trio from Aylesbury. They are inspired by the music of Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac and B.B King, mixed with Cream and Rory Gallagher. Their members have also jammed with Catfish and the Cinelli Brothers, as well as opening for Will Wilde in Oxford in 2018. With plenty of original material spanning the whole of the blues spectrum (as well as some well-picked covers) this will be a night of joyful music for all! Don't miss out!
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Sunday 8pm Join us for the monthly Gilded Cage Open Mic – an opportunity for anyone and everyone to step up onto the Limelight Theatre stage. You might be a musician, signer, comedian, poet, storyteller, juggler or magician; all are welcome to perform in this friendly, informal evening showcasing and celebrating local talent. Each act gets a 10-15min slot (depending on how many acts we have on the bill!) Entry is by donation – please consider giving whatever you can to support QPAC’s ongoing refurbishment and fundraising. Note: if bringing a backing track, please ensure it’s on a device with a headphone socket / adaptor. PA is provided with Direct Input for instruments (bring a cable if you have one!). There’ll be a piano on stage.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Fri 25 Oct & Sat 26 Oct 7.30pm Written by Ade Morris Directed by Sandie King Produced by Unbound A classic period drama, with a twist… In the vault of the British Museum, history is hurtling into the present day. Jane Parr has been exploring her ancestry, and with the help of some unlikely guides, she’s about to discover the story of Emma Bennett. Miss Bennett is aboard her romantic brigantine in 1804, but where is she sailing to? And, two centuries later, what is her descendant Jane really hiding from in the whispering museum vault? This special production is presented by QPAC’s in-house storytelling company, Unbound, by kind permission of Micheline Steinberg Associates.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre