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Unbound Theatre's riotously-funny sleuthing audio sitcom jumps from recording studio to stage. In Victorian London there is one man people turn to when faced with an impossible mystery. The Great Detective himself, Sherlock Holmes. And when Holmes is too busy to help, Inspector Murder takes up the mantle! Come and revel in the fantastically funny misadventures of the second-best consulting detective agency, including the eponymous Inspector, his fellow sleuth Laura Norder, their genius inventor and bondsman Luc Vercluse, and thoroughly unhinged housekeeper Constance Urveillence. Join the cast and crew as they perform a live reading of two episodes from the show's furst season, including an infamous misadventure aboard a speeding train... Suitable for ages 16+
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Unbound Theatre present their latest Shakespeare tour, bringing the Bard’s work to audiences across Buckinghamshire! When former lovers Beatrice and Benedick are reunited in Messina, a merry war begins. At the same time, Count Claudio is about to meet the love of his life - but not everyone in the city wishes the union well... This brand-new production of Shakespeare’s iconic comedy is perfect for fans of the Bard as well as those a bit suspicious of Shakespeare! Had a bad experience with his plays at school? Can’t deal with another show full of men in tights? This is the show for you! The production will debut for two nights here at QPAC before heading out and about on tour, including dates at Waddesdon Manor and Wycombe Museum. Full dates and times will be available soon at www.unboundtheatre.co.uk
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
DISCOUNT PERFORMANCES: Fri 8 Dec (7.30pm), Sat 9 Dec (5.30pm) & Fri 15 Dec (7.30pm) SIGNED PERFORMANCES: Sat 9 Dec (1pm) & Fri 29 Dec (7.30pm) RELAXED PERFORMANCE: Sun 17 Dec (5:30pm) Directed by Erika Sanderson | Written by Dario Knight | Music by Stephen J Davies Second star to the right and straight on 'til morning! Queens Park Arts Centre celebrates the 40th birthday of its Limelight Theatre by staging a magical pantomime adventure with Peter Pan. Some years have passed since Wendy Darling and her brothers said goodbye to Peter Pan. Now he’s back! Magic is disappearing from Neverland. Peter needs Wendy’s help – but neither of them is quite the person the other remembers. Only Christmas itself can restore the magic, but is it already too late? Alongside a cast of pratfalling pirates, lively Lost Boys and wonderful Wild Girls, Peter and Wendy embark on a magical adventure – but a terrifying foe lurks in the shadows. This year’s pantomime show is packed full of rib-tickling slapstick routines, amazing dances and songs, and beautiful handmade sets, costumes, props and puppets from the artists and makers of Queens Park Arts Centre. 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
Get ready for a night of improvised spontaneous storytelling. This special show features the talents of our own Unbound Storytellers, alongside the brilliant AdLibretto team! The Unbound Storytellers have been enchanting audiences since 2014, having presented more than 100 different projects across stage, screen and soundwaves! In this show they'll be creating brand new tales inspired by audience suggestions, in all manner of different genres! Stories span epic adventures and intimate solo yarns, all in Unbound's own inimitable style. AdLibretto creates one-off original musicals inspired by the life and childhood dreams of a member of the audience. Created in Spring 2022, it quickly established itself as one of London’s most successful impro groups, performing 25 musicals in 2022. This performance is presented by our in-house production company Unbound.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
A new one-act play by Dario Knight. Claire Jameson is directing a revival of little-known musical ‘Jolly Joyce’, and rehearsals aren’t going well… The actors are mixing work and pleasure; the stage manager’s not happy with the venue; and a surprise guest in the rehearsal room stirs up some unwelcome history. Claire is known as a formidable director, but there are some scenes you can’t command your way out of, and this particular production is forty years in the making… From the writer of ‘Funny Voices’ and ‘Retreat’, ‘When You’re Ready’ concludes a themed trilogy of plays exploring the nature of stories and those who tell them. Praise for ‘Funny Voices’ and ‘Retreat’: "This deserves to be in the West End" "Beautifully written and produced" "A better way to welcome audiences back to the theatre, there could not be"
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Come and seee the band live to witness a show which will take you back to the late seventies and early eighties when The Jam played as one of the most iconic and influential bands in music history. If you like The Jam then you will love A Band Called Malice and are guaranteed to have an unforgettable evening for all the right reasons! In 2017, A Band Called Malice was formed when frontman Andy Coultas decided to create a new band. A band to recreate the sound of The Jam with the attitude and feel of the original line up. Finding musicians to do this was not an easy task as the people in the band had to be of exceptional standard, able to sing, able to commit, love The Jam, and of course be fit and agile enough to reproduce the live performance of Weller, Foxton and Buckler. Andy turned to Jo Adams from Their Music Rocks, a promotional agency, and together they searched fior the right band members and, after a year of auditions and rehearsals, they finally settled on the superb line up to make up A Band Called Malice.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
A Celebration of the Music of Coldplay; capturing the sound and energy of one of the biggest bands in the world. Featuring the hits and many surprises for all fans of Coldplay. -- “Brilliant musicians! Great Sound! Thank you so much.” - Sara Shipp “Great Evening Will certainly come again!” - Di Humber “You guys were IMMENSE.” - Raptorneet “Great evening and well done for recreating the Coldplay sound.” - Mark Baber
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
See below for available dates (each session lasts 30mins). ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Suitable for ages 7-11 Join tutors Emma Legon and Laura Peacock for this fantastic arty activity. These sessions give students the opportunity to glaze work created during the school holiday classes, or the weekly afterschool making sessions. All materials are provided, including firing for the finished, glazed piece. Please Note: Each 30min slot allows enough time to glaze one finished piece. If you have multiple pieces to fire, please book one session per piece. Date Time Tutor Age Range Price Tues 9 May 4.15pm-4.45pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 9 May 5pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 23 May 4.15pm-4.45pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 23 May 5pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 27 June 4.15pm-4.45pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 27 June 4.15pm-4.45pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 27 June 5pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 18 July 4.15pm-4.45pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 18 July 5pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50
Queens Park Arts Centre
Glaze Studio
Mondays and Tuesdays 4.30pm-5.30/6pm during term time. ABOUT THE WORKSHOPs Suitable for ages 7-11 Join tutors Emma Bowden and Laura Peacock for this fantastic afterschool arty activity. Learn the key techniques of pottery and create a brand new work of art every week. All materials are included in the workshop price, including firing for your finished piece. Please bring a water bottle and an apron / old shirt. Please note - these sessions are for making only and session times differ with each tutor. If you wish to glaze your work, please book a dedicated glazing session separately. Date Time Tutor Age Range Price Tues 18 Apr 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 25 Apr 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 2 May 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 16 May 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 6 June 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 13 June 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 20 June 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 4 July 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 11 July 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
*Special early bird ticket price of £10 until 9 April* Join Aidan the Wizard as he makes his debut performance at QPAC's Limelight Theatre with a brand-new 'work in progress' magic and mind reading show. In this hilarious and jaw-dropping show, audience members will put Aidan to the test in a once-in-a-lifetime experience to find out if it's really possible to read minds - live on stage. Nobody really knows what's going to happen in these shows...except that secrets will fly, minds will be blown and we’ll all have a good laugh in the process. Not suitable for under 15's.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
This is a weekly class running on Saturdays during term time. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP This weekly drop-in class offers students the opportunity to learn Mandarin Chinese language, working at a beginner level. Students will also be able to learn about calligraphy. This is a great chance for anyone with an interest in liguistics to beging learning a new language. ABOUT THE TUTOR Jay is a multi-liguist who has volunteered for QPAC for several years, working with students in workshops, attending events, and helping run front of gouse during performances. He's now bringing his expertise in languages to students as a tutor. WHAT TO BRING - A notepad - A pen or pencil
Queens Park Arts Centre
Textile Studio
Book Club meets once a month - see calendar below for latest dates and book titles. ABOUT THE CLASS This is a friendly reading group who read and talk about one book each month. Attendees take turns to choose the book and come up with discussion questions, then chair the group. Books chosen in the past have ranged from classics such as Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte and The Rainbow by DH Lawrence, to modern fiction such as Atonement by Ian McEwan and We Need To Talk About Kevin by Lionel The club covers different fictional genres and have also discussed other genres of writing such as autobiography and short stories. Attendees will need to have obtained and read a copy of the book chosen for that month. Newcomers are welcome to come to class without having read the book to give it a try! ABOUT THE TUTOR Laura first began running the bookclub at QPAC in 2002 after leaving her job as an English teacher. This enabled her to pursue her love of literature by facilitating classes of willing adults without having to do any marking! In 2005, she embarked on an M.A. in English Literature which she completed shortly before the birth of her daughter in 2007. From 2005 members of the bookclub have taken turns to run the group either in pairs or individually which has been a great success. Laura is on hand to help if needed. CLASS FEEDBACK “Always enjoyable with plenty of lively discussion by class members.” “Joining a book club introduced me to a variety of different genres which I wouldn’t normally read” “When running the book club everyone is very supportive, and although it may seem daunting to do, it isn’t” 2022 DATES 9 March - “The Island of Missing Trees” by Elif Shafak April - No Book Club 11 May - “Notes on an Execution” by Danya Kukafka 8 June - “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus
Queens Park Arts Centre
Gallery
Join us for a special night of music and dance, as our Limelight Theatre hosts a fundraising ceilidh in support of QPAC's continued operations. The evening will be led by the Queens Park Pickers - a talented band of musicians who meet once a month in our coffee bar to socialise and play American Old-Time music. They'll be on stage providing a perfect mix of dance music, with Tim Rooke calling the dances. Don't worry if you've never been to a ceilidh before, the band will be there to guide you through the different dances and make sure everyone has a good night!
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
A one-day class running 10am-4pm on the dates listed below. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP A one-day introductory workshop creating art that can work to enhance your house or garden. Tony will guide you through the ‘How to do’ approach using a range of materials. Looking through some samples of finished pieces the emphasis will then be on experimentation, sharing and exploring ideas and personal approaches, to help us and give momentum to the process of creating new work. The focus will not be on rushing to finish a first piece, but more importantly give us understanding of how to bring about a confident conclusion. We live in a material world and a culture wedded to waste, potential and possibilities are everywhere, waiting to be reinvented and used, our vision reawakened to new ways of seeing. ABOUT THE TUTOR Tony Moody has been a practicing artist and maker for over 30 years. Discovering a love of paint early in life he went on to train in ceramics and now is focusing on making Garden Art; using clay and other materials to produce his uniquely colourful sculptures and ceramic collages. Each piece of work is a one-off and tells a story about time and place. Whether a full-size wall, several metres long and high, or a small 50 cms panel each piece in some way reflects his interests in nature, history and place. They embed a language wedded to the understanding and celebration of materials and the love of careful artisan processes. WHAT TO BRING Materials are supplied by the tutor and include cement board and a basic range of ceramic mosaic pieces, glass beads, stone, marbles, buttons and beads etc. Feel free to bring along small items of personal interest that you might like to include in your work.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Glaze Studio
Fridays during term time, 10am-11.30am This is a self-guided group comprising members with a skillset ranging from basic to experienced. Prospective attendees should have their own clarinet (Bb), be able to find their way around the instrument with at least basic skills and be able to read music notation to a basic level as a minimum. The group does not aim to teach attendees from scratch but there is sufficient skill within the members to help players to develop their abilities as required. Playing in a group is the best way to advance your capabilities regardless of whatever level you start. We have capable semi/professional music leaders within the group able to guide us, and musical pieces are chosen by consensus.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
A brand new regular comedy night at the Limelight Theatre. See below for upcoming dates / line-ups. FRIDAY 14 APRIL (Doors 7pm, Show starts 8pm) GERRY KYEI ALEX HYLTON NATE KITCH * FRIDAY 12 MAY (Doors 7pm, Show starts 8pm) STEVE WILLIAMS KATE MARTIN TREVOR BICKLES PLEASE NOTE: All line-ups are subject to change
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Mondays (10am-12.30pm) & Thursdays (7pm-9.30pm) during term time. A weekly workshop ideal for anyone with a passion for the art of contemporary jewellery. Whether a complete beginner or a practiced jeweller, this friendly drop-in class allows students aged 16+ to direct their own learning and create beautiful, unique pieces. Our experienced tutor Susie Upstone will help guide you through the design and making process – be sure to bring a sketchbook and pens to jot down your ideas! We provide all the tools you need, however raw materials such as metal and gems must be purchased by students. Susie will be able to advise on what you’ll need for your project (including the necessary PPE), and where to source it.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
3-week course running for three consecutive 2-hour sessions from the start time listed below. ABOUT THE CLASS This course will introduce you to beginner drawing techniques- looking at equipment, how to show depth through shading and perspective, and how to draw through identifying shape, form and texture. This workshop is aimed at beginners to drawing, and art in general, and those looking to improve their drawing skills. COURSE DATES 5 April 19 April 26 April 7 June 14 June 21 June WHAT TO BRING A selection of pencils (2H, HB, 2B, 4B, 6B) An A4 sketch pad A rubber A putty rubber A pencil sharpener A ruler ABOUT THE TUTOR Leila Ward is a Tring-based artist who studied Art and Design at Loughborough University School of Art and Design. She has experimented with different mediums over the years, and particularly likes drawing/ painting animals, and using watercolour, acrylic, and printing techniques. Leila enjoys making art more accessible to others, showing people that anyone can create art. If you have any further questions please email Leila on: Leila_Ward@msn.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
2-week course running for two consecutive 2.5-hour sessions from the start time listed below. ABOUT THE CLASS Through a series of demonstrations and projects, you'll develop your watercolour painting skills and learn how to create expressive landscapes that capture the beauty and energy of the natural world. By the end of the course, you'll have several completed projects and a deeper understanding of watercolour painting techniques, giving you the confidence to continue exploring and creating expressive watercolour paintings. So grab your brushes and let's get started! COURSE DATES Saturday 22 April Saturday 29 April WHAT TO BRING *Selection of watercolour paints (either pans or tubes) *White gouache paint (small tube) *Selection of brushes (such as a size 10 and 4 round, and a larger flat brush 1/2 inch - 1 inch) *A4 Watercolour paper pad (minimum 250 gsm cold pressed/NOT paper) Masking tape *Masking fluid (ideally frisk masking fineliner/ needle tip) Flat board (cardboard/ foamboard/ wooden drawing board) Small painting sponge Pencil, rubber Watercolour Materials Packs designed for use at Leila’s workshops are available to buy from QPAC at £28, please buy yours in advance of class to ensure stock! (01296 424332). Packs contain items marked on above list with an asterisk *
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
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
From the psychedelic ‘60s through to the polished delivery of their later work, Floyd in the Flesh as deeply passionate about the music of Pink Floyd, and pride themselves on delivering an authentic sound and show every time. In 2023 ‘The Dark Side of the Moon’ turns 50 years old, and Floyd in the Flesh will be celebrating by performing the album in its entirety as well as a wealth of greatest hits and fan favourites, in a brand-new show which is a complete experience for all the senses. Featuring some of the country’s most talented musicians and a spellbinding light show, this is the performance Pink Floyd fans won’t want to miss.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
This workshop runs on selected dates during term time - see below for upcoming dates. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Come along and learn to ring on this unique and historic collection of handbells representing the work of many bell foundries. The workshops are open to all adults. The workshop will cover: (a) how to make music with handbells. (b) how to read a series of numbers and how these translate into music. (c) the art and pleasure of ringing as part of a group. (d) a brief history of the unique set of bells and their origins and (e) a brief history of the Launton Handbell Ringers. ABOUT THE TUTORS The Launton Handbell Ringers were formed 70 years ago and so have vast knowledge of ringing handbells in the “four-in-hand” style. The team Leader has been with the team for 67 years and two other members of the team also have 50+ years ringing knowledge.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
From the age of 9, John Otway knew he wanted to be a pop star. But even at that young age, having listened to his sister's Beatles and Stones records, he knew he would never be able to do what they do. However, when his sister got the latest Bob Dylan album, he knew there was a place for him and he set about learning how to play guitar. Otway had to wait until 1977 and the rise of punk before his dream of fame and fortune would finally become a reality. Having caught the eye of the producers of the BBC's Old Grey Whistle Test, Otway's performance on that show would grab the attention of the watching audience. Otway, ever the showman, decided to jump on to the amplifier of his colleague during a performance of Bob Lind's Cheryl's Going Home. (Un)fortunately for Otway, he misjudged his leap and sent Wild Willy Barrett’s amplifier tumbling as he crashed down straddling the box under the amp. The full force of the impact was absorbed by the most tender part of his body, but in doing this one simple act of recklessness and his wanton disregard for his own safety, Otway was the talk of everyone who watched that evening's programme. Not only did he see a surge in his audiences, sales of Otway's sixth single, the halfspoken love song Really Free increased dramatically and reached number 27 in the UK Singles Chart. An appearance on the BBC's flagship music programme Top of the Pops, where Otway & Barrett were introduced by Elton John later, Otway was finally a star. It would however, be his greatest success for some time. Despite numerous attempts to get back into the charts, Otway would have to wait 25 years for his next taste of chart success. In the intervening years, Otway would become an actor; write an autobiography (Cor Baby That’s Really Me: Rock and Roll’s Greatest Failure); perform sold out shows at London’s Astoria and Royal Albert Hall; make regular appearances at both Glastonbury and Edinburgh Festivals; and write the nation’s seventh favourite lyric of all-time (beating Bob Dylan and Paul Simon in the process). In 2002, Otway achieved what he desired the most – a second hit. A concerted publicity campaign saw Otway reach number 9 with the disco pastiche Bunsen Burner and a second appearance on Top of the Pops. Despite this success, a planned world tour collapsed, but Otway continued to gig extensively around the UK either with his band, as a duo with Wild Willy Barrett or solo. A follow-up autobiography was penned in 2010 and titled: I Did It Otway: Regrets I’ve Had a Few. To celebrate his 60th birthday in 2012, Otway produced his debut movie titled Otway the Movie: The Story of Rock n Roll’s Greatest Failure. A screening for producers was held at London’s Leicester Square with the final scenes from the movie filmed on the red carpet and edited into the film as the audience were watching. The film was then taken to Cannes Film Festival and a 50-date tour of cinemas in both the UK and North America. It was subsequently voted the 2nd best film of the year in a poll of its readers conducted by The Guardian newspaper. Following a successful Kickstarter campaign, Otway took his band to the Caribbean island of Montserrat to record a new album. The album would be the first to be recorded on the island by an international artist since The Rolling Stones recorded Steel Wheels in 1989. Produced by Grammy-award winner Chris Birkett and recorded at Olveston House – the former home of Sir George Martin, it was released to critical acclaim in May 2017.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
John Young is the front man for Lifesigns, a band fast establishing itself as one of the current leaders in new progressive rock, pop and jazz fusion. John’s solo show is a mixture of music and stories through the years from when he first started touring the world with Uli Jon Roth’s Electric Sun back in 1985 through to 2023 with Lifesigns. Over the years he has worked with: Asia, John Wetton, The Scorpions, Bonnie Tyler, Paul Rodgers and the Law, Roy Wood, Fish, Electric Sun, Mammoth, The Strawbs, Greenslade and Lucio Battisti to name but a few, as well as guesting with Ringo & George, Robert Plant & Jimmy Page and many more. John has won both the PROG Magazine Keyboard player of the year for 2021 and the last Classic Rock Society keyboard player of the year award in 2017. Lifesigns also featured heavily in critics' top 10s for their recent album Altitude and were voted by many as the best band on Cruise to the Edge in 2022. When you think that other acts included Marillion, the Alan Parsons Project, Simon Phillips, Transatlantic and the Frank Zappa Band… that’s quite an honour. Music will range from John’s solo career through to the music of Lifesigns. Listen on YouTube and on Lifesigns website
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Tuesdays (7pm-9.30pm) and Saturdays (10am-12.30pm) during term time. TUESDAY TUTORED CLASS with Ellie Kirkup | 7pm-9.30pm (Term-time) This class is open to all levels of experience and ability. Students will have the chance to draw from a nude model in a variety of short and longer poses. If you are brand new to life drawing, tutor Ellie Kirkup will provide all of the guidance you need to get started and plenty of ideas for developing your drawing. Artists with more experience are welcome to come along and simply draw. Ellie has been practising life drawing for ten years and is enthusiastic about keeping experimenting with drawing. She likes to work from other artists, life drawing and everyday life to explore interesting new ways to draw. SATURDAY UNTUTORED CLASS | 10am-12.30pm (Term-time) Whether you’re a beginner starting out or you’ve been coming to Life drawing classes for years; all are welcome at the Saturday Morning Life Drawing. We are an untutored group that gives members the opportunity to work with highly professional models in various poses. The class runs in 2 halves with a coffee break in between. The first includes 5, 10, 15 minute poses and the second is a long singular pose. We are a group made up of people who simply enjoy life drawing and although the class not tutored, there is plenty of help on hand from within the group, with tips, hints and the odd extra medium, if you need it. Our aim is to give the opportunity to experience life drawing and develop skills in an supportive environment. Why not come along and give it a try. WHAT TO BRING (Both Sessions) While easels and drawing boards are provided, attendees are asked to bring your own mediums but what you use it down to you. E.g. pencil, charcoal, inks or paints on paper, canvas or panels (a good range is available from the QPAC shop).
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
The latest murder mystery event, by Karen Banfield. In 1929 Fanshaw and Henderson Publishers suffer the loss of one of their partners. Needing to replace him and his secretaries, Joseph has to act fast to keep things going. He brings in family members of his late partner but soon realises this comes with its own problems. He couldn’t predict that when they all have to decide about publishing a most controversial book, whichever decision is made, there will those that are very unhappy. And unhappy enough to commit murder. At the end of act one, guests will be able to work as a team at their table to submit their first guess as to who the murderer is. After act two, they get their final chance to say ‘whodunnit’ and why. The format of the event is for the audience to sit back and enjoy a full length play. No questions are directed at any cast members and they do not mix with the audience. The team with the most points wins a prize. Discounts: Make a saving by booking a table of 6 or 8 people! The cast and crew are kindly donating the proceeds from the show to Queens Park Arts Centre’s ongoing fundraising appeal.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
A one-off half-day workshop running on multiple dates during the spring/summer term. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Suitable for beginners or those wishing to brush up on needle felting techniques. You will create a 15cm X 15cm needle felted wool picture, (landscape or beach scene), with hand stitching . We will focus on how to use the tools safely and blending dyed wool fibres to achieve depth and perspective. Iron on fabric stabiliser will be used to secure the work. At the end of the session, you will take home your own unique artwork ready for framing. ABOUT THE TUTOR Marie is a second career, self taught fibre artist with a passion for wool crafts. There’s always something new to learn! She enjoys participating in art fairs and exhibitions. These include MS Centre Pop Up Art Weekend, Longwick Art Show, Sally Evans Events, Thame Art Crawl, Chiltern Made Craft Fair. WHAT TO BRING All materials and tools included in the course price.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Textile Studio
Mondays (7pm-9.30pm) during term time. This workshop is ideal for anyone with an interest in painting with oils, whether a practised hand or a beginner exploring the medium for the first time. Tutor Michael Navarro is a local artist who has been working for several years in various media, predominately oils. His works range from landscapes to pop art and murals. Our painting studio has easels, painting boards and other communal facilities. We also have an art shop selling paints, paper and brushes, if you don’t have them already. Michael will be happy to advise on what resources you need to get started.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Tuesdays (1pm-3.30pm) during term time. A weekly workshop designed as an opportunity for artists to get together and work on projects of their choosing in the friendly, creative, and inspiring environment of the QPAC painting studio. Attendees can be of any level of ability, from novices to very experienced artists. All forms of media are welcome, including charcoal, pencil, pastel, watercolours, acrylics and oils. Though not a formally-tutored class, this open studio session is a chance to learn from fellow artists, share your work and discuss your art form. We have easels, drawing boards and other communal resources, plus an on-site art shop stocked with paints, pencils, charcoal, paper and brushes.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Join us for the return of the QPAC Open Mic Night. Step onto the Limelight Theatre stage and share your talent with an appreciative crowd. Whether a musician, a magician, a comedian, a singer, a dancer, an actor or an all-rounder - all are welcome. Or - if you're happy away from the footlights - graba drink from the Limelight bar and come and enjoy a night of great local talent. Each act gets a 10-minute slot, or three songs. Cost of Entry is £5 for audience members and £3 for performers.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
This magnetic bond still holds after more than 40 years of attempted escapes and still loved for their total in-yer-face originality, the contrast between the dead pan humour of Barrett and mad onstage antics of Otway are hilarious to watch. John’s lyrical genius and Willy’s outstanding musicianship (he seems to play almost every stringed instrument known to man, plus a few hybrids of his own making!) Ever keen to add a new dimension to the show, Willy has a new addition to his array of instruments. Beware the Moose Homp!!. Willy’s interest in making instruments began when he commandeered two guitars made by his dad in 1965. One from an old guitar neck and a scaffold plank which became affectionally known as the Les Dawson, and the other branded the Mk1 Schitstik electric slide of similar pedigree. These instruments were used on many of the early tracks, including Really Free and Racing Cars) Was the Last Straw Tour of 2017 to be the end? Willy’s remark “this will be the last time that many of you will see us together again” was often hastily misinterpreted as the final throw of the dice, but the reason given “it’s not us packing up, it’s you lot dying off, you know who you are!” is often overlooked by eager scribes. And so the rumours abound. For any Otway/Barrett virgins out there who don’t know what to expect, be prepared for everything from bare-chested theremin playing to wah wah wheelie bin as the duo jump from one hit and 40 near misses to another: An amazing and irreverent performance by two master entertainers.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Phil Beer is the multi-instrumental half of the west country’s award-winningacoustic duo, Show of Hands. With a professional career of over 36 years, Phil has a great deal of material to draw on for his solo appearances, which are an eclectic mix of traditional tunes, covers of Springsteen or The Hollies, together with his own compositions and songs from his contemporaries. All are songs and music of memory and significance sung in the subtle and melodic Phil Beer style and interjected with musings and amusings to an almost personal audience. It is a treat of past and current favourites from one of the most popular musicians on the acoustic circuit.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Improve your skills in portraiture with drawing and painting in acrylics. You will be working from a mixture of photographs and live sitters, and exploring materials from charcoal to paint. Come and try our new weekly workshop that will suit all levels, beginners and improvers particularly welcome! ABOUT THE TUTOR John has been drawing and painting for 30 years with West Wycombe Art, alongside a career in kitchen design. WHAT TO BRING Basic drawing materials (charcoal and paper) will be provided, however you may need to buy further materials as you progress and John will be on hand to advise on this. If you have any queries before you come along, please contact John on johneasterling4@gmail.com.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Two-and-a-half-hour sessions (see calendar for dates and start times) during term time. These weekly untutored pottery classes are ideal for experienced potters looking to work independently on their projects in our fully-equipped studio spaces. We have a wide variety of dates and times available – please see the calendar below for the latest availability. PLEASE NOTE: If you’re a beginner looking to try out pottery but aren’t too sure where to start, please book one of our tutored classes rather than these untutored sessions. Your workshop fee includes use of our facilities, including clay and a wide variety of tools. If you would like to have your work fired there is an additional charge, calculated based on the weight of the piece. Please speak to a member of staff if you require assistance working this out. Click here for tutored classes.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery & Glaze Studios
A weekly two-and-a-half-hour untutored ceramics session for experienced potters looking to decorate their work in our glaze studio. We have a good variety of glazes and slips available to use. Students wishing to apply their own glaze recipes (or any not in stock at QPAC) should have a chat with our Technician before decorating their work to make sure the glaze(s) are suitable for our firing temperatures. There is a small charge for glaze firing, which is calculated by weight of the finished piece. Please speak to a member of staff if you require assistance working this out.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Glaze Studio
Come and take your potter's wheel driving test in the this fun and friendly one-day class. This class is ideal for students working at all different levels of ceramics. Whether a first-timer looking to get to grips with clay, or a more experienced potter wanting to explore new shapes and forms (e.g. bowls, bottles, plats, faceting and external decoration), our tutor is here to help! Your course fee includes the cost of firing for two pieces.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
An opportunity to get creative with air-dry clay in the school holiday. Each 2.5-hour session gives young artists a chance to work on a brand new pottery project. See the calendar below for session dates and times. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book in advance, and don't forget to bring an apron with you on the day. These sessions use air-dry clay, so bring a box or container to take your finished piece home with you. Date Time Topic Tutor Age Range Tues 4 Apr 10am-12.30pm Hatching Eggs Emma Bowden 7-11 Tue 4 Apr 1.30pm-4pm Crocodiles Emma Bowden 7-11 Wed 5 Apr 10am-12.30pm Water World Emma Bowden 7-11 Wed 5 Apr 1.30pm-4pm Pandas Emma Bowden 7-11
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
A night with the Skamungas is a night not to be missed! If you thought you didn’t like ska and reggae this band might well change your mind, or even your life, with their infectious enthusiasm and unique take on those instantly recognisable ska and reggae standards. Expect a musical jaunt through the history of ska and reggae – do you know the difference? From 60s Caribbean artists such as Desmond Dekker, Toots and the Maytals, and Jimmy Cliff, through the 70s with Dave and Ansell Collins and the wonderful songs of 80s bands Madness, The Selecter, The Specials, and Bad Manners. Then on to the 90s and Reel Big Fish, and more recently, Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra and Paolo Nutini. Just to name a few! And that’s not all. The band in ska/reggae tradition takes classic pop and rock songs and feeds them through the Skamungas machine to be performed as though always intended as ska or reggae numbers. Their ska rendition of Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” is a particular favourite as is “These Boots Were Made for Walking”, yes, the Nancy Sinatra number! In 2017 some very talented musicians from across the Home Counties came together to do something different. Skamungas was formed and rapidly achieved a great live reputation evidenced by headlining Astonbury 2017, their first festival, and Live In The Park 2018 in Aylesbury before 10,000+ people. The band was selected from hundreds of contenders to play PennFest 2018, on the bill with the likes of Kaiser Chiefs, Feeder and Manic Street Preachers. 2019 was a triumph of sell out dates, the band now playing far and wide across Southern England, continuing to headline festivals and being courted by ever bigger venues and clubs stretching from the south coast up through London to the Midlands. With a terrific brass section of trombone and tenor sax, driving drums and bass, rhythmic guitar and keyboards, harmonised backing vocals and a lead vocalist to die for, Skamungas is set to achieve even greater things. Please note, this will be a seated gig. Skamungas Follow Skamungas on Facebook.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
5-week course running for five consecutive 1-hour sessions from the start time listed below. A series of five afternoon workshops introducing students to Tai Chi Qigong. Each week you will learn different sections of this traditional Chinese practise of flowing movement and postures. Helena will introduce new variations as you go along. Qigong is beneficial for both mental and physical health, and particularly works on your flexibility and strength. Practising Taichi Qigong can also improve your circulation, balance and co-ordination and on the other hand aids mental focus, too. Moderate level of exercise, suitable both for complete beginners, as well as improvers who have done some Tai Chi or Qigong before. COURSE DATES 20 April 27 April 4 May 11 May 18 May ABOUT THE TUTOR Helena has been teaching Health Qigong since qualifying under the British Health Qigong Association in 2011. Helena also has an interest in Complementary Therapy and is an experienced Yoga teacher. As a teacher at Queens Park she runs further sessions in Yoga on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
Mondays (4.30pm-7pm) during term time. This class will show you the simple and basic techniques of Tapestry, and share the enjoyment of creative weaving. You can create an interesting woven tapestry piece of fabricated wall art in a very short time, using just about anything to weave with from wool, wire and fabric to hard things like twigs or leaves. You can experiment with different materials to make the wall art you desire for your home, learning simple aspects of colour theory to help chose the right colours for your project. Once you have developed the basic skills, you can design your own abstract pattern in landscape or portrait. WHAT TO BRING: Most materials can be provided for your first session, however regular attendees should bring the following: -A old picture frame (minus glass) - A4 or larger -A flat piece of wood slightly wider than the frame -String -Knitting wool, wire, fabric, etc to weave with -Plastic Needles -Plastic Fork
Queens Park Arts Centre
Textile Studio
“…If I’d closed my eyes, I would have thought it was The Beatles…fantastic!” Review from 2019 Friars Club show at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. Described by The British Beatles Fan club as “definitely not your average Beatles band”, since 2013 The Dung Beatles have carved out a unique reputation for performing the music of The Beatles with authenticity, passion and raw energy to sell-out audiences around the UK. Today, live shows draw on an incredible repertoire of over a hundred songs, including both hits and rarely heard album tracks, that have also made the band popular guests on BBC. “A must-see band for all Beatles fans”.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
The KT Bush Band were formed in 1977 and featured Brian Bath on guitar, Del Palmer on bass, Vic King on drums and a young female singer called Kate Bush. The band gigged throughout London and the South of the U.K. playing many of Kate’s original tunes alongside some classic covers, and Brian went on not only to perform on four of her early hit albums, but also the original Tour Of Life, Kate’s only ever tour. Now the band are back, with original member Brian Bath at the helm and featuring Steve Bevan on bass, Emily Francis on keyboards, Pete Turtle on drums and the sensational Sallie-Anne Hurst on vocals. Classic Kate Bush songs are the order of the day, alongside a few never-heard-before originals from back in the day, all intertwined with entertaining and sometimes hilarious anecdotes from the gentlemen that were there to help launch Kate’s hugely successful career back in the day. A show not to be missed - this is not a tribute band. This is The KT Bush Band.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
3-week course running for three consecutive 2 hour sessions from the start time listed below. ABOUT THE CLASS This course will give you an introduction to watercolours. It is suitable for beginners, those returning to using watercolours, or those wanting to try out different techniques. You will learn some of the basic techniques such as blending, washes, and wet on wet to paint a range of subjects. COURSE DATES 5 April 19 April 26 April WHAT TO BRING (Bundles of watercolour paints / brushes are available at the QPAC Art Shop) *Selection of watercolour paints (either pans or tubes) *White gouache paint (small tube) *Selection of brushes (such as a size 10 and 4 round, and a larger flat brush 1/2 inch - 1 inch) *A4 Watercolour paper pad (minimum 250 gsm cold pressed/NOT paper) Masking tape *Masking fluid (ideally frisk masking fineliner/ needle tip) Flat board (cardboard/ foamboard/ wooden drawing board) Small painting sponge Pencil, rubber Watercolour Materials Packs designed for use at Leila’s workshops are available to buy from QPAC at £28, please buy yours in advance of class to ensure stock! (01296 424332). Packs contain items marked on above list with an asterisk *. ABOUT THE TUTOR Leila Ward is a Tring-based artist who studied Art and Design at Loughborough University School of Art and Design. She has experimented with different mediums over the years, and particularly likes drawing/ painting animals, and using watercolour, acrylic, and printing techniques. Leila enjoys making art more accessible to others, showing people that anyone can create art.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Come and try authentic Classical Hatha Yoga, which can support both physical and mental wellbeing. Sessions will incorporate warming up and stretching, yoga posture and breathing practices, as well as elements of relaxation, meditation and chanting. As a practice, Hatha yoga sessions integrates gentle to moderate physical exercise with mindfulness and awareness, encouraging your attention to shift from ‘doing’ to just ‘being’. We welcome complete beginners as well as those with some yoga experience. ABOUT THE TUTOR Helena has been teaching Yoga in various forms since 1985. She completed her Instructor Training in Classical Vivekenanda Yoga 1998 under the Indian Institute. Helena also has interests in Qigong, Tai Chi and Complementary Therapy. As a teacher at Queens Park she runs further sessions in Tai Chi Qigong and Yoga.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
This class runs every Thursday, 5.30pm-6.30pm, during term time. Click here for term dates. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Mindfulness yoga incorporates the practice of mindfulness within the practice and is conducive for students physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. The class includes warm up, joint loosening, stretching, yoga poses, breathing practices (pranayama) meditation and relaxation. ABOUT THE TUTOR Helena is a yoga teacher trained in classical Hatha yoga, and a minded yoga therapist and teen yoga instructor. She has been teaching yoga since 1998 mainly within NHS settings until she retired in 2015. Since her retirement, Helena has been teaching in various community settings and, for the last two years since lockdown, has been teaching her classes via Zoom. WHAT TO BRING Please bring a yoga mat with you. You may also wish to bring additional cushions for support, and/or a blanket / shawl.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
Unbound Theatre's riotously-funny sleuthing audio sitcom jumps from recording studio to stage. In Victorian London there is one man people turn to when faced with an impossible mystery. The Great Detective himself, Sherlock Holmes. And when Holmes is too busy to help, Inspector Murder takes up the mantle! Come and revel in the fantastically funny misadventures of the second-best consulting detective agency, including the eponymous Inspector, his fellow sleuth Laura Norder, their genius inventor and bondsman Luc Vercluse, and thoroughly unhinged housekeeper Constance Urveillence. Join the cast and crew as they perform a live reading of two episodes from the show's furst season, including an infamous misadventure aboard a speeding train... Suitable for ages 16+
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Unbound Theatre present their latest Shakespeare tour, bringing the Bard’s work to audiences across Buckinghamshire! When former lovers Beatrice and Benedick are reunited in Messina, a merry war begins. At the same time, Count Claudio is about to meet the love of his life - but not everyone in the city wishes the union well... This brand-new production of Shakespeare’s iconic comedy is perfect for fans of the Bard as well as those a bit suspicious of Shakespeare! Had a bad experience with his plays at school? Can’t deal with another show full of men in tights? This is the show for you! The production will debut for two nights here at QPAC before heading out and about on tour, including dates at Waddesdon Manor and Wycombe Museum. Full dates and times will be available soon at www.unboundtheatre.co.uk
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
DISCOUNT PERFORMANCES: Fri 8 Dec (7.30pm), Sat 9 Dec (5.30pm) & Fri 15 Dec (7.30pm) SIGNED PERFORMANCES: Sat 9 Dec (1pm) & Fri 29 Dec (7.30pm) RELAXED PERFORMANCE: Sun 17 Dec (5:30pm) Directed by Erika Sanderson | Written by Dario Knight | Music by Stephen J Davies Second star to the right and straight on 'til morning! Queens Park Arts Centre celebrates the 40th birthday of its Limelight Theatre by staging a magical pantomime adventure with Peter Pan. Some years have passed since Wendy Darling and her brothers said goodbye to Peter Pan. Now he’s back! Magic is disappearing from Neverland. Peter needs Wendy’s help – but neither of them is quite the person the other remembers. Only Christmas itself can restore the magic, but is it already too late? Alongside a cast of pratfalling pirates, lively Lost Boys and wonderful Wild Girls, Peter and Wendy embark on a magical adventure – but a terrifying foe lurks in the shadows. This year’s pantomime show is packed full of rib-tickling slapstick routines, amazing dances and songs, and beautiful handmade sets, costumes, props and puppets from the artists and makers of Queens Park Arts Centre. 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
Get ready for a night of improvised spontaneous storytelling. This special show features the talents of our own Unbound Storytellers, alongside the brilliant AdLibretto team! The Unbound Storytellers have been enchanting audiences since 2014, having presented more than 100 different projects across stage, screen and soundwaves! In this show they'll be creating brand new tales inspired by audience suggestions, in all manner of different genres! Stories span epic adventures and intimate solo yarns, all in Unbound's own inimitable style. AdLibretto creates one-off original musicals inspired by the life and childhood dreams of a member of the audience. Created in Spring 2022, it quickly established itself as one of London’s most successful impro groups, performing 25 musicals in 2022. This performance is presented by our in-house production company Unbound.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
A new one-act play by Dario Knight. Claire Jameson is directing a revival of little-known musical ‘Jolly Joyce’, and rehearsals aren’t going well… The actors are mixing work and pleasure; the stage manager’s not happy with the venue; and a surprise guest in the rehearsal room stirs up some unwelcome history. Claire is known as a formidable director, but there are some scenes you can’t command your way out of, and this particular production is forty years in the making… From the writer of ‘Funny Voices’ and ‘Retreat’, ‘When You’re Ready’ concludes a themed trilogy of plays exploring the nature of stories and those who tell them. Praise for ‘Funny Voices’ and ‘Retreat’: "This deserves to be in the West End" "Beautifully written and produced" "A better way to welcome audiences back to the theatre, there could not be"
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Come and seee the band live to witness a show which will take you back to the late seventies and early eighties when The Jam played as one of the most iconic and influential bands in music history. If you like The Jam then you will love A Band Called Malice and are guaranteed to have an unforgettable evening for all the right reasons! In 2017, A Band Called Malice was formed when frontman Andy Coultas decided to create a new band. A band to recreate the sound of The Jam with the attitude and feel of the original line up. Finding musicians to do this was not an easy task as the people in the band had to be of exceptional standard, able to sing, able to commit, love The Jam, and of course be fit and agile enough to reproduce the live performance of Weller, Foxton and Buckler. Andy turned to Jo Adams from Their Music Rocks, a promotional agency, and together they searched fior the right band members and, after a year of auditions and rehearsals, they finally settled on the superb line up to make up A Band Called Malice.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
A Celebration of the Music of Coldplay; capturing the sound and energy of one of the biggest bands in the world. Featuring the hits and many surprises for all fans of Coldplay. -- “Brilliant musicians! Great Sound! Thank you so much.” - Sara Shipp “Great Evening Will certainly come again!” - Di Humber “You guys were IMMENSE.” - Raptorneet “Great evening and well done for recreating the Coldplay sound.” - Mark Baber
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
See below for available dates (each session lasts 30mins). ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Suitable for ages 7-11 Join tutors Emma Legon and Laura Peacock for this fantastic arty activity. These sessions give students the opportunity to glaze work created during the school holiday classes, or the weekly afterschool making sessions. All materials are provided, including firing for the finished, glazed piece. Please Note: Each 30min slot allows enough time to glaze one finished piece. If you have multiple pieces to fire, please book one session per piece. Date Time Tutor Age Range Price Tues 9 May 4.15pm-4.45pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 9 May 5pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 23 May 4.15pm-4.45pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 23 May 5pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 27 June 4.15pm-4.45pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 27 June 4.15pm-4.45pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 27 June 5pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 18 July 4.15pm-4.45pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50 Tue 18 July 5pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £5.50
Queens Park Arts Centre
Glaze Studio
Mondays and Tuesdays 4.30pm-5.30/6pm during term time. ABOUT THE WORKSHOPs Suitable for ages 7-11 Join tutors Emma Bowden and Laura Peacock for this fantastic afterschool arty activity. Learn the key techniques of pottery and create a brand new work of art every week. All materials are included in the workshop price, including firing for your finished piece. Please bring a water bottle and an apron / old shirt. Please note - these sessions are for making only and session times differ with each tutor. If you wish to glaze your work, please book a dedicated glazing session separately. Date Time Tutor Age Range Price Tues 18 Apr 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 25 Apr 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 2 May 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 16 May 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 6 June 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 13 June 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 20 June 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 4 July 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50 Tue 11 July 4.30pm-5.30pm Laura Peacock 7-11 £9.50
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
*Special early bird ticket price of £10 until 9 April* Join Aidan the Wizard as he makes his debut performance at QPAC's Limelight Theatre with a brand-new 'work in progress' magic and mind reading show. In this hilarious and jaw-dropping show, audience members will put Aidan to the test in a once-in-a-lifetime experience to find out if it's really possible to read minds - live on stage. Nobody really knows what's going to happen in these shows...except that secrets will fly, minds will be blown and we’ll all have a good laugh in the process. Not suitable for under 15's.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
This is a weekly class running on Saturdays during term time. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP This weekly drop-in class offers students the opportunity to learn Mandarin Chinese language, working at a beginner level. Students will also be able to learn about calligraphy. This is a great chance for anyone with an interest in liguistics to beging learning a new language. ABOUT THE TUTOR Jay is a multi-liguist who has volunteered for QPAC for several years, working with students in workshops, attending events, and helping run front of gouse during performances. He's now bringing his expertise in languages to students as a tutor. WHAT TO BRING - A notepad - A pen or pencil
Queens Park Arts Centre
Textile Studio
Book Club meets once a month - see calendar below for latest dates and book titles. ABOUT THE CLASS This is a friendly reading group who read and talk about one book each month. Attendees take turns to choose the book and come up with discussion questions, then chair the group. Books chosen in the past have ranged from classics such as Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte and The Rainbow by DH Lawrence, to modern fiction such as Atonement by Ian McEwan and We Need To Talk About Kevin by Lionel The club covers different fictional genres and have also discussed other genres of writing such as autobiography and short stories. Attendees will need to have obtained and read a copy of the book chosen for that month. Newcomers are welcome to come to class without having read the book to give it a try! ABOUT THE TUTOR Laura first began running the bookclub at QPAC in 2002 after leaving her job as an English teacher. This enabled her to pursue her love of literature by facilitating classes of willing adults without having to do any marking! In 2005, she embarked on an M.A. in English Literature which she completed shortly before the birth of her daughter in 2007. From 2005 members of the bookclub have taken turns to run the group either in pairs or individually which has been a great success. Laura is on hand to help if needed. CLASS FEEDBACK “Always enjoyable with plenty of lively discussion by class members.” “Joining a book club introduced me to a variety of different genres which I wouldn’t normally read” “When running the book club everyone is very supportive, and although it may seem daunting to do, it isn’t” 2022 DATES 9 March - “The Island of Missing Trees” by Elif Shafak April - No Book Club 11 May - “Notes on an Execution” by Danya Kukafka 8 June - “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus
Queens Park Arts Centre
Gallery
Join us for a special night of music and dance, as our Limelight Theatre hosts a fundraising ceilidh in support of QPAC's continued operations. The evening will be led by the Queens Park Pickers - a talented band of musicians who meet once a month in our coffee bar to socialise and play American Old-Time music. They'll be on stage providing a perfect mix of dance music, with Tim Rooke calling the dances. Don't worry if you've never been to a ceilidh before, the band will be there to guide you through the different dances and make sure everyone has a good night!
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
A one-day class running 10am-4pm on the dates listed below. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP A one-day introductory workshop creating art that can work to enhance your house or garden. Tony will guide you through the ‘How to do’ approach using a range of materials. Looking through some samples of finished pieces the emphasis will then be on experimentation, sharing and exploring ideas and personal approaches, to help us and give momentum to the process of creating new work. The focus will not be on rushing to finish a first piece, but more importantly give us understanding of how to bring about a confident conclusion. We live in a material world and a culture wedded to waste, potential and possibilities are everywhere, waiting to be reinvented and used, our vision reawakened to new ways of seeing. ABOUT THE TUTOR Tony Moody has been a practicing artist and maker for over 30 years. Discovering a love of paint early in life he went on to train in ceramics and now is focusing on making Garden Art; using clay and other materials to produce his uniquely colourful sculptures and ceramic collages. Each piece of work is a one-off and tells a story about time and place. Whether a full-size wall, several metres long and high, or a small 50 cms panel each piece in some way reflects his interests in nature, history and place. They embed a language wedded to the understanding and celebration of materials and the love of careful artisan processes. WHAT TO BRING Materials are supplied by the tutor and include cement board and a basic range of ceramic mosaic pieces, glass beads, stone, marbles, buttons and beads etc. Feel free to bring along small items of personal interest that you might like to include in your work.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Glaze Studio
Fridays during term time, 10am-11.30am This is a self-guided group comprising members with a skillset ranging from basic to experienced. Prospective attendees should have their own clarinet (Bb), be able to find their way around the instrument with at least basic skills and be able to read music notation to a basic level as a minimum. The group does not aim to teach attendees from scratch but there is sufficient skill within the members to help players to develop their abilities as required. Playing in a group is the best way to advance your capabilities regardless of whatever level you start. We have capable semi/professional music leaders within the group able to guide us, and musical pieces are chosen by consensus.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
A brand new regular comedy night at the Limelight Theatre. See below for upcoming dates / line-ups. FRIDAY 14 APRIL (Doors 7pm, Show starts 8pm) GERRY KYEI ALEX HYLTON NATE KITCH * FRIDAY 12 MAY (Doors 7pm, Show starts 8pm) STEVE WILLIAMS KATE MARTIN TREVOR BICKLES PLEASE NOTE: All line-ups are subject to change
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Mondays (10am-12.30pm) & Thursdays (7pm-9.30pm) during term time. A weekly workshop ideal for anyone with a passion for the art of contemporary jewellery. Whether a complete beginner or a practiced jeweller, this friendly drop-in class allows students aged 16+ to direct their own learning and create beautiful, unique pieces. Our experienced tutor Susie Upstone will help guide you through the design and making process – be sure to bring a sketchbook and pens to jot down your ideas! We provide all the tools you need, however raw materials such as metal and gems must be purchased by students. Susie will be able to advise on what you’ll need for your project (including the necessary PPE), and where to source it.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
3-week course running for three consecutive 2-hour sessions from the start time listed below. ABOUT THE CLASS This course will introduce you to beginner drawing techniques- looking at equipment, how to show depth through shading and perspective, and how to draw through identifying shape, form and texture. This workshop is aimed at beginners to drawing, and art in general, and those looking to improve their drawing skills. COURSE DATES 5 April 19 April 26 April 7 June 14 June 21 June WHAT TO BRING A selection of pencils (2H, HB, 2B, 4B, 6B) An A4 sketch pad A rubber A putty rubber A pencil sharpener A ruler ABOUT THE TUTOR Leila Ward is a Tring-based artist who studied Art and Design at Loughborough University School of Art and Design. She has experimented with different mediums over the years, and particularly likes drawing/ painting animals, and using watercolour, acrylic, and printing techniques. Leila enjoys making art more accessible to others, showing people that anyone can create art. If you have any further questions please email Leila on: Leila_Ward@msn.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
2-week course running for two consecutive 2.5-hour sessions from the start time listed below. ABOUT THE CLASS Through a series of demonstrations and projects, you'll develop your watercolour painting skills and learn how to create expressive landscapes that capture the beauty and energy of the natural world. By the end of the course, you'll have several completed projects and a deeper understanding of watercolour painting techniques, giving you the confidence to continue exploring and creating expressive watercolour paintings. So grab your brushes and let's get started! COURSE DATES Saturday 22 April Saturday 29 April WHAT TO BRING *Selection of watercolour paints (either pans or tubes) *White gouache paint (small tube) *Selection of brushes (such as a size 10 and 4 round, and a larger flat brush 1/2 inch - 1 inch) *A4 Watercolour paper pad (minimum 250 gsm cold pressed/NOT paper) Masking tape *Masking fluid (ideally frisk masking fineliner/ needle tip) Flat board (cardboard/ foamboard/ wooden drawing board) Small painting sponge Pencil, rubber Watercolour Materials Packs designed for use at Leila’s workshops are available to buy from QPAC at £28, please buy yours in advance of class to ensure stock! (01296 424332). Packs contain items marked on above list with an asterisk *
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
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
From the psychedelic ‘60s through to the polished delivery of their later work, Floyd in the Flesh as deeply passionate about the music of Pink Floyd, and pride themselves on delivering an authentic sound and show every time. In 2023 ‘The Dark Side of the Moon’ turns 50 years old, and Floyd in the Flesh will be celebrating by performing the album in its entirety as well as a wealth of greatest hits and fan favourites, in a brand-new show which is a complete experience for all the senses. Featuring some of the country’s most talented musicians and a spellbinding light show, this is the performance Pink Floyd fans won’t want to miss.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
This workshop runs on selected dates during term time - see below for upcoming dates. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Come along and learn to ring on this unique and historic collection of handbells representing the work of many bell foundries. The workshops are open to all adults. The workshop will cover: (a) how to make music with handbells. (b) how to read a series of numbers and how these translate into music. (c) the art and pleasure of ringing as part of a group. (d) a brief history of the unique set of bells and their origins and (e) a brief history of the Launton Handbell Ringers. ABOUT THE TUTORS The Launton Handbell Ringers were formed 70 years ago and so have vast knowledge of ringing handbells in the “four-in-hand” style. The team Leader has been with the team for 67 years and two other members of the team also have 50+ years ringing knowledge.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
From the age of 9, John Otway knew he wanted to be a pop star. But even at that young age, having listened to his sister's Beatles and Stones records, he knew he would never be able to do what they do. However, when his sister got the latest Bob Dylan album, he knew there was a place for him and he set about learning how to play guitar. Otway had to wait until 1977 and the rise of punk before his dream of fame and fortune would finally become a reality. Having caught the eye of the producers of the BBC's Old Grey Whistle Test, Otway's performance on that show would grab the attention of the watching audience. Otway, ever the showman, decided to jump on to the amplifier of his colleague during a performance of Bob Lind's Cheryl's Going Home. (Un)fortunately for Otway, he misjudged his leap and sent Wild Willy Barrett’s amplifier tumbling as he crashed down straddling the box under the amp. The full force of the impact was absorbed by the most tender part of his body, but in doing this one simple act of recklessness and his wanton disregard for his own safety, Otway was the talk of everyone who watched that evening's programme. Not only did he see a surge in his audiences, sales of Otway's sixth single, the halfspoken love song Really Free increased dramatically and reached number 27 in the UK Singles Chart. An appearance on the BBC's flagship music programme Top of the Pops, where Otway & Barrett were introduced by Elton John later, Otway was finally a star. It would however, be his greatest success for some time. Despite numerous attempts to get back into the charts, Otway would have to wait 25 years for his next taste of chart success. In the intervening years, Otway would become an actor; write an autobiography (Cor Baby That’s Really Me: Rock and Roll’s Greatest Failure); perform sold out shows at London’s Astoria and Royal Albert Hall; make regular appearances at both Glastonbury and Edinburgh Festivals; and write the nation’s seventh favourite lyric of all-time (beating Bob Dylan and Paul Simon in the process). In 2002, Otway achieved what he desired the most – a second hit. A concerted publicity campaign saw Otway reach number 9 with the disco pastiche Bunsen Burner and a second appearance on Top of the Pops. Despite this success, a planned world tour collapsed, but Otway continued to gig extensively around the UK either with his band, as a duo with Wild Willy Barrett or solo. A follow-up autobiography was penned in 2010 and titled: I Did It Otway: Regrets I’ve Had a Few. To celebrate his 60th birthday in 2012, Otway produced his debut movie titled Otway the Movie: The Story of Rock n Roll’s Greatest Failure. A screening for producers was held at London’s Leicester Square with the final scenes from the movie filmed on the red carpet and edited into the film as the audience were watching. The film was then taken to Cannes Film Festival and a 50-date tour of cinemas in both the UK and North America. It was subsequently voted the 2nd best film of the year in a poll of its readers conducted by The Guardian newspaper. Following a successful Kickstarter campaign, Otway took his band to the Caribbean island of Montserrat to record a new album. The album would be the first to be recorded on the island by an international artist since The Rolling Stones recorded Steel Wheels in 1989. Produced by Grammy-award winner Chris Birkett and recorded at Olveston House – the former home of Sir George Martin, it was released to critical acclaim in May 2017.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
John Young is the front man for Lifesigns, a band fast establishing itself as one of the current leaders in new progressive rock, pop and jazz fusion. John’s solo show is a mixture of music and stories through the years from when he first started touring the world with Uli Jon Roth’s Electric Sun back in 1985 through to 2023 with Lifesigns. Over the years he has worked with: Asia, John Wetton, The Scorpions, Bonnie Tyler, Paul Rodgers and the Law, Roy Wood, Fish, Electric Sun, Mammoth, The Strawbs, Greenslade and Lucio Battisti to name but a few, as well as guesting with Ringo & George, Robert Plant & Jimmy Page and many more. John has won both the PROG Magazine Keyboard player of the year for 2021 and the last Classic Rock Society keyboard player of the year award in 2017. Lifesigns also featured heavily in critics' top 10s for their recent album Altitude and were voted by many as the best band on Cruise to the Edge in 2022. When you think that other acts included Marillion, the Alan Parsons Project, Simon Phillips, Transatlantic and the Frank Zappa Band… that’s quite an honour. Music will range from John’s solo career through to the music of Lifesigns. Listen on YouTube and on Lifesigns website
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Tuesdays (7pm-9.30pm) and Saturdays (10am-12.30pm) during term time. TUESDAY TUTORED CLASS with Ellie Kirkup | 7pm-9.30pm (Term-time) This class is open to all levels of experience and ability. Students will have the chance to draw from a nude model in a variety of short and longer poses. If you are brand new to life drawing, tutor Ellie Kirkup will provide all of the guidance you need to get started and plenty of ideas for developing your drawing. Artists with more experience are welcome to come along and simply draw. Ellie has been practising life drawing for ten years and is enthusiastic about keeping experimenting with drawing. She likes to work from other artists, life drawing and everyday life to explore interesting new ways to draw. SATURDAY UNTUTORED CLASS | 10am-12.30pm (Term-time) Whether you’re a beginner starting out or you’ve been coming to Life drawing classes for years; all are welcome at the Saturday Morning Life Drawing. We are an untutored group that gives members the opportunity to work with highly professional models in various poses. The class runs in 2 halves with a coffee break in between. The first includes 5, 10, 15 minute poses and the second is a long singular pose. We are a group made up of people who simply enjoy life drawing and although the class not tutored, there is plenty of help on hand from within the group, with tips, hints and the odd extra medium, if you need it. Our aim is to give the opportunity to experience life drawing and develop skills in an supportive environment. Why not come along and give it a try. WHAT TO BRING (Both Sessions) While easels and drawing boards are provided, attendees are asked to bring your own mediums but what you use it down to you. E.g. pencil, charcoal, inks or paints on paper, canvas or panels (a good range is available from the QPAC shop).
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
The latest murder mystery event, by Karen Banfield. In 1929 Fanshaw and Henderson Publishers suffer the loss of one of their partners. Needing to replace him and his secretaries, Joseph has to act fast to keep things going. He brings in family members of his late partner but soon realises this comes with its own problems. He couldn’t predict that when they all have to decide about publishing a most controversial book, whichever decision is made, there will those that are very unhappy. And unhappy enough to commit murder. At the end of act one, guests will be able to work as a team at their table to submit their first guess as to who the murderer is. After act two, they get their final chance to say ‘whodunnit’ and why. The format of the event is for the audience to sit back and enjoy a full length play. No questions are directed at any cast members and they do not mix with the audience. The team with the most points wins a prize. Discounts: Make a saving by booking a table of 6 or 8 people! The cast and crew are kindly donating the proceeds from the show to Queens Park Arts Centre’s ongoing fundraising appeal.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
A one-off half-day workshop running on multiple dates during the spring/summer term. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Suitable for beginners or those wishing to brush up on needle felting techniques. You will create a 15cm X 15cm needle felted wool picture, (landscape or beach scene), with hand stitching . We will focus on how to use the tools safely and blending dyed wool fibres to achieve depth and perspective. Iron on fabric stabiliser will be used to secure the work. At the end of the session, you will take home your own unique artwork ready for framing. ABOUT THE TUTOR Marie is a second career, self taught fibre artist with a passion for wool crafts. There’s always something new to learn! She enjoys participating in art fairs and exhibitions. These include MS Centre Pop Up Art Weekend, Longwick Art Show, Sally Evans Events, Thame Art Crawl, Chiltern Made Craft Fair. WHAT TO BRING All materials and tools included in the course price.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Textile Studio
Mondays (7pm-9.30pm) during term time. This workshop is ideal for anyone with an interest in painting with oils, whether a practised hand or a beginner exploring the medium for the first time. Tutor Michael Navarro is a local artist who has been working for several years in various media, predominately oils. His works range from landscapes to pop art and murals. Our painting studio has easels, painting boards and other communal facilities. We also have an art shop selling paints, paper and brushes, if you don’t have them already. Michael will be happy to advise on what resources you need to get started.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Tuesdays (1pm-3.30pm) during term time. A weekly workshop designed as an opportunity for artists to get together and work on projects of their choosing in the friendly, creative, and inspiring environment of the QPAC painting studio. Attendees can be of any level of ability, from novices to very experienced artists. All forms of media are welcome, including charcoal, pencil, pastel, watercolours, acrylics and oils. Though not a formally-tutored class, this open studio session is a chance to learn from fellow artists, share your work and discuss your art form. We have easels, drawing boards and other communal resources, plus an on-site art shop stocked with paints, pencils, charcoal, paper and brushes.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Join us for the return of the QPAC Open Mic Night. Step onto the Limelight Theatre stage and share your talent with an appreciative crowd. Whether a musician, a magician, a comedian, a singer, a dancer, an actor or an all-rounder - all are welcome. Or - if you're happy away from the footlights - graba drink from the Limelight bar and come and enjoy a night of great local talent. Each act gets a 10-minute slot, or three songs. Cost of Entry is £5 for audience members and £3 for performers.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
This magnetic bond still holds after more than 40 years of attempted escapes and still loved for their total in-yer-face originality, the contrast between the dead pan humour of Barrett and mad onstage antics of Otway are hilarious to watch. John’s lyrical genius and Willy’s outstanding musicianship (he seems to play almost every stringed instrument known to man, plus a few hybrids of his own making!) Ever keen to add a new dimension to the show, Willy has a new addition to his array of instruments. Beware the Moose Homp!!. Willy’s interest in making instruments began when he commandeered two guitars made by his dad in 1965. One from an old guitar neck and a scaffold plank which became affectionally known as the Les Dawson, and the other branded the Mk1 Schitstik electric slide of similar pedigree. These instruments were used on many of the early tracks, including Really Free and Racing Cars) Was the Last Straw Tour of 2017 to be the end? Willy’s remark “this will be the last time that many of you will see us together again” was often hastily misinterpreted as the final throw of the dice, but the reason given “it’s not us packing up, it’s you lot dying off, you know who you are!” is often overlooked by eager scribes. And so the rumours abound. For any Otway/Barrett virgins out there who don’t know what to expect, be prepared for everything from bare-chested theremin playing to wah wah wheelie bin as the duo jump from one hit and 40 near misses to another: An amazing and irreverent performance by two master entertainers.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Phil Beer is the multi-instrumental half of the west country’s award-winningacoustic duo, Show of Hands. With a professional career of over 36 years, Phil has a great deal of material to draw on for his solo appearances, which are an eclectic mix of traditional tunes, covers of Springsteen or The Hollies, together with his own compositions and songs from his contemporaries. All are songs and music of memory and significance sung in the subtle and melodic Phil Beer style and interjected with musings and amusings to an almost personal audience. It is a treat of past and current favourites from one of the most popular musicians on the acoustic circuit.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
Improve your skills in portraiture with drawing and painting in acrylics. You will be working from a mixture of photographs and live sitters, and exploring materials from charcoal to paint. Come and try our new weekly workshop that will suit all levels, beginners and improvers particularly welcome! ABOUT THE TUTOR John has been drawing and painting for 30 years with West Wycombe Art, alongside a career in kitchen design. WHAT TO BRING Basic drawing materials (charcoal and paper) will be provided, however you may need to buy further materials as you progress and John will be on hand to advise on this. If you have any queries before you come along, please contact John on johneasterling4@gmail.com.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Two-and-a-half-hour sessions (see calendar for dates and start times) during term time. These weekly untutored pottery classes are ideal for experienced potters looking to work independently on their projects in our fully-equipped studio spaces. We have a wide variety of dates and times available – please see the calendar below for the latest availability. PLEASE NOTE: If you’re a beginner looking to try out pottery but aren’t too sure where to start, please book one of our tutored classes rather than these untutored sessions. Your workshop fee includes use of our facilities, including clay and a wide variety of tools. If you would like to have your work fired there is an additional charge, calculated based on the weight of the piece. Please speak to a member of staff if you require assistance working this out. Click here for tutored classes.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery & Glaze Studios
A weekly two-and-a-half-hour untutored ceramics session for experienced potters looking to decorate their work in our glaze studio. We have a good variety of glazes and slips available to use. Students wishing to apply their own glaze recipes (or any not in stock at QPAC) should have a chat with our Technician before decorating their work to make sure the glaze(s) are suitable for our firing temperatures. There is a small charge for glaze firing, which is calculated by weight of the finished piece. Please speak to a member of staff if you require assistance working this out.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Glaze Studio
Come and take your potter's wheel driving test in the this fun and friendly one-day class. This class is ideal for students working at all different levels of ceramics. Whether a first-timer looking to get to grips with clay, or a more experienced potter wanting to explore new shapes and forms (e.g. bowls, bottles, plats, faceting and external decoration), our tutor is here to help! Your course fee includes the cost of firing for two pieces.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
An opportunity to get creative with air-dry clay in the school holiday. Each 2.5-hour session gives young artists a chance to work on a brand new pottery project. See the calendar below for session dates and times. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book in advance, and don't forget to bring an apron with you on the day. These sessions use air-dry clay, so bring a box or container to take your finished piece home with you. Date Time Topic Tutor Age Range Tues 4 Apr 10am-12.30pm Hatching Eggs Emma Bowden 7-11 Tue 4 Apr 1.30pm-4pm Crocodiles Emma Bowden 7-11 Wed 5 Apr 10am-12.30pm Water World Emma Bowden 7-11 Wed 5 Apr 1.30pm-4pm Pandas Emma Bowden 7-11
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
A night with the Skamungas is a night not to be missed! If you thought you didn’t like ska and reggae this band might well change your mind, or even your life, with their infectious enthusiasm and unique take on those instantly recognisable ska and reggae standards. Expect a musical jaunt through the history of ska and reggae – do you know the difference? From 60s Caribbean artists such as Desmond Dekker, Toots and the Maytals, and Jimmy Cliff, through the 70s with Dave and Ansell Collins and the wonderful songs of 80s bands Madness, The Selecter, The Specials, and Bad Manners. Then on to the 90s and Reel Big Fish, and more recently, Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra and Paolo Nutini. Just to name a few! And that’s not all. The band in ska/reggae tradition takes classic pop and rock songs and feeds them through the Skamungas machine to be performed as though always intended as ska or reggae numbers. Their ska rendition of Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” is a particular favourite as is “These Boots Were Made for Walking”, yes, the Nancy Sinatra number! In 2017 some very talented musicians from across the Home Counties came together to do something different. Skamungas was formed and rapidly achieved a great live reputation evidenced by headlining Astonbury 2017, their first festival, and Live In The Park 2018 in Aylesbury before 10,000+ people. The band was selected from hundreds of contenders to play PennFest 2018, on the bill with the likes of Kaiser Chiefs, Feeder and Manic Street Preachers. 2019 was a triumph of sell out dates, the band now playing far and wide across Southern England, continuing to headline festivals and being courted by ever bigger venues and clubs stretching from the south coast up through London to the Midlands. With a terrific brass section of trombone and tenor sax, driving drums and bass, rhythmic guitar and keyboards, harmonised backing vocals and a lead vocalist to die for, Skamungas is set to achieve even greater things. Please note, this will be a seated gig. Skamungas Follow Skamungas on Facebook.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
5-week course running for five consecutive 1-hour sessions from the start time listed below. A series of five afternoon workshops introducing students to Tai Chi Qigong. Each week you will learn different sections of this traditional Chinese practise of flowing movement and postures. Helena will introduce new variations as you go along. Qigong is beneficial for both mental and physical health, and particularly works on your flexibility and strength. Practising Taichi Qigong can also improve your circulation, balance and co-ordination and on the other hand aids mental focus, too. Moderate level of exercise, suitable both for complete beginners, as well as improvers who have done some Tai Chi or Qigong before. COURSE DATES 20 April 27 April 4 May 11 May 18 May ABOUT THE TUTOR Helena has been teaching Health Qigong since qualifying under the British Health Qigong Association in 2011. Helena also has an interest in Complementary Therapy and is an experienced Yoga teacher. As a teacher at Queens Park she runs further sessions in Yoga on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
Mondays (4.30pm-7pm) during term time. This class will show you the simple and basic techniques of Tapestry, and share the enjoyment of creative weaving. You can create an interesting woven tapestry piece of fabricated wall art in a very short time, using just about anything to weave with from wool, wire and fabric to hard things like twigs or leaves. You can experiment with different materials to make the wall art you desire for your home, learning simple aspects of colour theory to help chose the right colours for your project. Once you have developed the basic skills, you can design your own abstract pattern in landscape or portrait. WHAT TO BRING: Most materials can be provided for your first session, however regular attendees should bring the following: -A old picture frame (minus glass) - A4 or larger -A flat piece of wood slightly wider than the frame -String -Knitting wool, wire, fabric, etc to weave with -Plastic Needles -Plastic Fork
Queens Park Arts Centre
Textile Studio
“…If I’d closed my eyes, I would have thought it was The Beatles…fantastic!” Review from 2019 Friars Club show at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. Described by The British Beatles Fan club as “definitely not your average Beatles band”, since 2013 The Dung Beatles have carved out a unique reputation for performing the music of The Beatles with authenticity, passion and raw energy to sell-out audiences around the UK. Today, live shows draw on an incredible repertoire of over a hundred songs, including both hits and rarely heard album tracks, that have also made the band popular guests on BBC. “A must-see band for all Beatles fans”.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
The KT Bush Band were formed in 1977 and featured Brian Bath on guitar, Del Palmer on bass, Vic King on drums and a young female singer called Kate Bush. The band gigged throughout London and the South of the U.K. playing many of Kate’s original tunes alongside some classic covers, and Brian went on not only to perform on four of her early hit albums, but also the original Tour Of Life, Kate’s only ever tour. Now the band are back, with original member Brian Bath at the helm and featuring Steve Bevan on bass, Emily Francis on keyboards, Pete Turtle on drums and the sensational Sallie-Anne Hurst on vocals. Classic Kate Bush songs are the order of the day, alongside a few never-heard-before originals from back in the day, all intertwined with entertaining and sometimes hilarious anecdotes from the gentlemen that were there to help launch Kate’s hugely successful career back in the day. A show not to be missed - this is not a tribute band. This is The KT Bush Band.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Limelight Theatre
3-week course running for three consecutive 2 hour sessions from the start time listed below. ABOUT THE CLASS This course will give you an introduction to watercolours. It is suitable for beginners, those returning to using watercolours, or those wanting to try out different techniques. You will learn some of the basic techniques such as blending, washes, and wet on wet to paint a range of subjects. COURSE DATES 5 April 19 April 26 April WHAT TO BRING (Bundles of watercolour paints / brushes are available at the QPAC Art Shop) *Selection of watercolour paints (either pans or tubes) *White gouache paint (small tube) *Selection of brushes (such as a size 10 and 4 round, and a larger flat brush 1/2 inch - 1 inch) *A4 Watercolour paper pad (minimum 250 gsm cold pressed/NOT paper) Masking tape *Masking fluid (ideally frisk masking fineliner/ needle tip) Flat board (cardboard/ foamboard/ wooden drawing board) Small painting sponge Pencil, rubber Watercolour Materials Packs designed for use at Leila’s workshops are available to buy from QPAC at £28, please buy yours in advance of class to ensure stock! (01296 424332). Packs contain items marked on above list with an asterisk *. ABOUT THE TUTOR Leila Ward is a Tring-based artist who studied Art and Design at Loughborough University School of Art and Design. She has experimented with different mediums over the years, and particularly likes drawing/ painting animals, and using watercolour, acrylic, and printing techniques. Leila enjoys making art more accessible to others, showing people that anyone can create art.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Come and try authentic Classical Hatha Yoga, which can support both physical and mental wellbeing. Sessions will incorporate warming up and stretching, yoga posture and breathing practices, as well as elements of relaxation, meditation and chanting. As a practice, Hatha yoga sessions integrates gentle to moderate physical exercise with mindfulness and awareness, encouraging your attention to shift from ‘doing’ to just ‘being’. We welcome complete beginners as well as those with some yoga experience. ABOUT THE TUTOR Helena has been teaching Yoga in various forms since 1985. She completed her Instructor Training in Classical Vivekenanda Yoga 1998 under the Indian Institute. Helena also has interests in Qigong, Tai Chi and Complementary Therapy. As a teacher at Queens Park she runs further sessions in Tai Chi Qigong and Yoga.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
This class runs every Thursday, 5.30pm-6.30pm, during term time. Click here for term dates. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Mindfulness yoga incorporates the practice of mindfulness within the practice and is conducive for students physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. The class includes warm up, joint loosening, stretching, yoga poses, breathing practices (pranayama) meditation and relaxation. ABOUT THE TUTOR Helena is a yoga teacher trained in classical Hatha yoga, and a minded yoga therapist and teen yoga instructor. She has been teaching yoga since 1998 mainly within NHS settings until she retired in 2015. Since her retirement, Helena has been teaching in various community settings and, for the last two years since lockdown, has been teaching her classes via Zoom. WHAT TO BRING Please bring a yoga mat with you. You may also wish to bring additional cushions for support, and/or a blanket / shawl.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
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