The Houghton Weavers have been entertaining folk for over 40 years with their unique blend of popular folk music, humour and audience participation. In their time together, the group - comprising Tony Berry, David Littler and Steve Millington - have performed thousands of concerts, recorded over 30 albums, starred in several of their own highly successful BBC radio and TV series, and made countless appearances on other programmes. The Houghton Weavers guarantee a wonderful evening of entertainment suitable for all the family. Their experience in the business together with their style and professionalism ensures that, as their motto says, they always ‘Keep Folk Smiling’.

ENTERTAINING ANGELS by Richard Everett Directed by Gerard Lennox Ive poured two hundred thousand cups of tea, made four thousand six hundred medium-sized quiches and personally baked two tons of light crust pastry. And for what? As a clergy wife Grace has spent a lifetime on best behaviour. Now, following the death of her husband Bardolph, she is enjoying the new-found freedom of being able to do and say exactly as she pleases. But the return of her eccentric missionary sister, Ruth, together with some disturbing revelations forces Grace to confront the truth of her marriage. Set in a classic English vicarage garden complete with a grass-banked stream and willow, the play is filled with sharp-edged comedy and probing wit. This amateur production of Entertaining Angels is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk

THE OPPOSITE SEX by David Tristram Directed by Hazel Phillips Join us for this fast-paced and witty comedy that explores the complexities of marriage, infidelity, and midlife crises. We follow two seemingly ordinary couples - Mark and Vicky, and Judith and Eric - for what should be a pleasant dinner party together. However, it soon becomes clear that their relationships are far from perfect, as secrets, past affairs, and simmering tensions come to light. As the evening progresses, misunderstandings and confrontations escalate and it isn't long before the air is thick with insults, black eyes and broken china! This amateur production of The Opposite Sex is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS Book and Lyrics by HOWARD ASHMAN Music by ALAN MENKEN Based on the film by Roger Corman, Screenplay by Charles Griffith Directed by: Martin Wadsworth Choreographed by Janet Fagan Musical Direction by Collette Stevenson 24 Jul - 01 Aug 2026 (incl. Sat matinees - no performance Sundays) Little Shop of Horrors is a horror-comedy rock musical about Seymour Krelborn, a meek flower shop assistant who discovers a strange and unusual plant, which he names Audrey II after his coworker and crush, Audrey. As Seymour nurtures the plant, he realizes it thrives on human bloodand as it grows, so does his fame and fortune. However, Audrey IIs hunger soon becomes insatiable, leading Seymour down a dark and dangerous path of murder and moral dilemmas. With a mix of 1960s-inspired rock, doo-wop, and Motown tunes, this cult classic blends humor, horror, and heart, all leading to an unforgettable (and sometimes apocalyptic) conclusion. Originally produced by the WPA Theatre (Kyle Renick, Producing Director) Originally produced at the Orpheum Theatre, New York City by the WPA Theatre, David Geffen, Cameron Mackintosh and the Shubert Organization This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI www.mtishows.co.uk

Don't Go Into The Cellar! The Invisible Man' Ingenious. Invisible. Insane. One of the greatest science fiction tales of all time is adapted by Don't Go Into The Cellar! Based on the classic H.G. Wells novella, Jonathan Goodwin plays a host of characters including the deranged scientist Griffin whose invisibility drug leads to his undertaking a murderous rampage across the Sussex countryside. Jonathan Goodwin performs a show scripted by himself and co-directed with Gary Archer. Don't Go Into The Cellar! are the UKs finest practitioners of theatrical Victoriana in a macabre vein. So leave this weary, workaday world behind, Ladies and Gentlemen, and join us for some good old-fashioned thrills, chills and chuckles. For more information about Don't Go Into The Cellar, visit their website: www.dontgointothecellar.com [http://www.dontgointothecellar.com]

Having wowed audiences worldwide with their exceptional tribute to one of the world's most successful acts, Abberettes have firmly established themselves as one of the premier acts in the tribute world! Laura Mac and Amanda Kay have a reputation as one of the best Abba Duo Tribute in the country, prepare to sing all night to Abbarettes harmonious melodies which will more than surpass your expectations. Join the sound-a-like Agnetha and Frida for a great night of disco classics which are guaranteed to 'make you feel like dancing'.

Wednesday Club: Mark Llewellin. My Odd Life: Daisy Nook to Coronation Street If youre looking for a afternoon of storytelling thats as sharp as a Manchester breeze and twice as warm, you won't want to miss this. Mark Llewellin - author, broadcaster, and raconteur extraordinaire - is coming to Wednesday Club to share his hilarious and heartfelt journey from the rural charm of Daisy Nook to the cobbles of the worlds most famous street. An afternoon of wit, wisdom, and "behind-the-scenes" wonder. Mark has spent a lifetime collecting stories, and lucky for us, hes coming to Wednesday Club to share his best ones. Marks "odd life" is a masterclass in how to find the comedy in the everyday. If you want to know what really happens when the cameras stop rolling, or how one man survives a life this eclectic, Mark is the only guide you need. 12.00 noon until 2.00 pm - Tickets just 5 Refreshments available. Bingo optional

Tuesday Caf at Guide Bridge Theatre! Join us for our popular Tuesday Caf on Tuesday 5th May Looking for a friendly place to catch up with friends or meet new people? Join us at Guide Bridge Theatres Tuesday Caf. Enjoy a warm atmosphere, great company, and live entertainment in the heart of our community. All for just 6. Reserve your spot today. Limited seating available, so don't miss out!

Don't Go Into The Cellar! Wilde About Oscar' Join Oscar Wilde for a sparkling and sprightly one-man show, in which stories will be told, laughter will be raised and, perhaps, a few tears shall be shed. Award-winning actor Jonathan Goodwin performs in a show scripted and adapted by himself. Don't Go Into The Cellar! are the UKs finest practitioners of theatrical Victoriana in a macabre vein. So leave this weary, workaday world behind, Ladies and Gentlemen, and join us for some good old-fashioned thrills, chills and chuckles. For more information about Don't Go Into The Cellar, visit their website: www.dontgointothecellar.com [http://www.dontgointothecellar.com]

Don't miss our general knowledge quiz night with rounds based on your favourite quiz programmes. A fun night raising funds for our 'MAKE IT GRAND' appeal. Teams of four (Individuals/couples can come together to make team (and new friends) Just 5 per person with option of light supper for an additional 3 per person.

BLITHE SPIRIT by Nol Coward Directed by James Shawcross "Till death do us part was only the beginning." Prepare for a performance of sparkling wit, supernatural mischief, and ghostly chaos in Nol Cowards classic comedy Blithe Spirit. When novelist Charles Condomine invites the eccentric medium Madame Arcati to conduct a sance as research for his new book, he gets far more than he bargained for - the ghost of his first wife, Elvira, returns from the beyond! Much to the dismay of his very-much-alive second wife, Ruth, Elvira isnt planning to leave quietly. As sances spiral out of control and tempers rise from both sides of the grave, Blithe Spirit delivers Cowards trademark blend of razor-sharp dialogue, irresistible charm, and farcical mayhem. A timeless comedy of manners turned otherworldly, this delightful play proves that marriage - and the afterlife - can be murderously funny. This amateur production of Blithe Spirit is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk

THESE SHINING LIVES by Melanie Marnich Directed by Hazel Phillips "Based on the true story of the women who traded their lives for a lethal glow." Set in the 1920s and 1930s, These Shining Lives tells the powerful true story of the women who painted watch dials with luminous radium paint at the Radium Dial Company in Ottawa, Illinois. What begins as an exciting opportunity for independence and prosperity soon turns into a heart breaking fight for justice, as the women discover that the glow making their watches beautiful is slowly poisoning them. At the centre of the story is Catherine Donohue, whose courage and resilience transform personal tragedy into a legacy of change. Through lyrical storytelling, humour, and deep humanity, Melanie Marnichs play celebrates the strength, dignity, and enduring spirit of women who refused to let their light be dimmed. These Shining Lives is both a moving tribute to friendship and an inspiring reminder that ordinary people can spark extraordinary change. THESE SHINING LIVES is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the Dramatists Play Service collection. (www.dramatists.com [http://www.dramatists.com])

BEN HUR by Patrick Barlow Directed by Daniel Cope "The greatest story ever told... in the smallest way possible." From the creative genius behind the Olivier and Tony Award-winning hit The 39 Steps, Patrick Barlow brings his signature style of compressed, physical comedy to the greatest epic ever told: Ben Hur. Watch in hysterics as a towering team of just four actors attempts to stage General Lew Wallace's massive biblical tale, tackling everything from a spectacular chariot race (with real chariots!) and an authentic sea battle (with real water!) to the backstage drama of the ambitious, yet amateur, theatre company. Expect ingenious quick-changes, slapstick, and a deluge of groan-worthy puns as this brilliant farce delivers non-stop laughs. Its an unforgettable night of theatre that is "more quick changes and tomfoolery than an entire run of Monty Python." - The Guardian. This amateur production of Ben Hur is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK Adaptation by Wendy Kesselman Directed by Jennifer Savill "One room. Two years. A lifetime of spirit." In this powerful and deeply moving adaptation by Wendy Kesselman, The Diary of Anne Frank brings to life the unforgettable true story of a young girl whose voice continues to inspire generations. Set in war-torn Amsterdam during the Nazi occupation, the play follows Anne Frank, a spirited and insightful Jewish teenager, as she and her family go into hiding in a secret annex above her fathers office. For over two years, Anne documents the fear, hope, love, and courage that define their days in confinement. Through her diary, we witness not only the unimaginable hardships of persecution but also the enduring strength of the human spirit. Kesselmans adaptation enriches the original play by incorporating newly discovered writings from Annes diary and survivor accounts, offering a more intimate, authentic, and contemporary portrait of Anne and the world around her. A timeless reminder of resilience, compassion, and the cost of intolerance, The Diary of Anne Frank is both a poignant history lesson and a celebration of the enduring power of hope. This amateur production of The Diary of Anne Frank (Adaptation by Wendy Kesselman) is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk

A BUNCH OF AMATEURS by Nick Newman / Ian Hislop Directed by Bev Bennett "To be great, or to be amateur? That is the question. Fading Hollywood action hero Jefferson Steele needs a comeback. His agent has booked him the role of a lifetime: King Lear in Stratford! He pictures the glory, the critics, the reverence... ...but there's been a slight geographical mix-up. Instead of the Royal Shakespeare Company, Jefferson finds himself in a sleepy Suffolk village with the Stratford Playersa passionate (and wonderfully eccentric) amateur dramatics society desperately trying to save their beloved theatre from the wrecking ball. It's a clash of colossal egos and chaotic cultures! Can a self-obsessed Tinseltown diva learn the true meaning of ensemble from a charming group of well-meaning but utterly unprepared "amateurs"? As the worlds of high-stakes Hollywood and home-grown hustle collide, Jefferson's monstrous vanity, insecurity, and total lack of Shakespearean experience are tested to the limit. From the brilliant comic minds of Ian Hislop and Nick Newman, this heartwarming and hilarious comedy is a genuine love letter to amateur theatre. Get ready for a riotous night of mistaken identity, theatrical mayhem, and a fading star finding his inner selfand his inner Lear! Don't miss this terrifically funny and surprisingly touching show! This amateur production of A Bunch of Amateurs is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk

THE LAST QUIZ NIGHT ON EARTH by Alison Carr Directed by Quina Chapman "The world is ending. The bar is open. The quiz must go on." When an asteroid hurtles toward Earth with just hours left on the clock, landlady Kathy is determined that the regulars at her local will go out with a bang and a few laughs. As the drinks flow and the quiz rounds get underway, long-held secrets surface, friendships are tested, and the line between celebration and chaos blurs. Part pub quiz, part play, Last Quiz Night on Earth invites the audience to join in the fun answering questions, sharing in the banter, and witnessing the heartbreak, humor, and humanity that shine brightest when time is running out. Funny, poignant, and disarmingly real, Alison Carrs Last Quiz Night on Earth is a bittersweet comedy about connection, courage, and what truly matters when the clock is ticking. NB. This production takes place in the GBT Bar Lounge. The layout is tables of 4. Don't worry if you are not a group of 4. Individuals and couples can come together to make team and new friends. Last Quiz Night on Earth, an amateur production by arrangement with Nick Hern Books.

Fresh Voices 2027 Welcome to Fresh Voices 2027! Now in our fifth year, we are proud to present an electric line up of six new one-act plays that range from the poignant to the purely absurd all written by members our very ownWordsmithsINK [https://gbtheatre.co.uk/wordsmithsink.html] writing group. For more information, email [email protected]. Who knows, it could be your play up on the GBT stage in 2027.

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Written by James Shawcross and Damien Cullen Choreography by Damien Cullen Musical Direction by Collette Stevenson "Fee-Fi-Fo-Fun for Everyone! When hard times hit the village of Trottsville, young Jack Trott is faced with an impossible choice sell the family cow, or risk everything on a handful of magic beans. Alongside his hopeless but lovable brother Silly Billy, and their unstoppable mum Dame Trott, Jacks decision sets off a chain of events that sends a beanstalk climbing into the clouds and danger climbing with it. Guided by a mysterious fairy named Flora, and shadowed by the vengeful witch Malabella, Jack finds himself in the chaotic Kingdom Above the Clouds ruled by a hungry Giant, managed by the warm-hearted Mrs Blunderbore, and patrolled by the bickering villains Flesh and Creep. As Trottsville is threatened and two worlds collide, Jack must discover that true heroism isnt about strength or treasure its about courage, kindness and standing up for the people you love. Packed with laugh-out-loud comedy, spectacular songs, audience interaction and theatrical magic, Jack and the Beanstalk is a high-energy pantomime with a modern spirit and a timeless heart. A family adventure full of laughter, love - and one very tall beanstalk.

THE GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF MUSICAL Book and Lyrics by Jake Brunger Music and Lyrics by Pippa Cleary Directed by: Martin Wadsworth Choreographed by TBC Musical Direction by Collette Stevenson "A theatrical treat thats always worth the whisk." Pull on your apron and step inside the worlds most famous marquee! This brand-new musical comedy follows the heart-warming journeys of eight amateur bakers as they compete for the ultimate trophy. From a nervous student to a retired grandmother, these strangers-turned-friends must endure the heat of the kitchen as they tackle intense technical challenges and elaborate final creations. Watching their every move are the formidable judges, Phil Hollinghurst and Pam Lee, ready to deliver critiques that could make a sponge rise or a spirit crumble. Through every triumph and every fallen fondant, The Great British Bake Off Musical explores the lives, loves, and laughs of the people behind the pastry. Its a hilarious and moving celebration of British life, community, and the simple joy of baking. What to Expect: A Delicious New Score: Featuring a witty and soaring soundtrack by the acclaimed team of Jake Brunger and Pippa Cleary. A Recipe for Joy: A story that proves its whats on the inside that counts. The Perfect Outing: A joyous night at the theatre that is as light and uplifting as a perfect souffl. "A heartwarming slice of musical theatre that will leave you hungry for more!" The Great British Bake Off television programme produced by Love Productions Original Theme Music by Tom Howe The Great British Bake Off is a registered trade mark of Love Productions Ltd. Originally produced in London at the Noel Coward Theatre by Mark Goucher Productions This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI www.mtishows.co.uk [http://www.mtishows.co.uk]

GB YOUTH THEATRE 2026 SUMMER PRODUCTION One ticket, two worlds: From the courtroom to the lab, join our talented Junior and Senior Youth Theatre groups for an performance of law, order, and scientific disorder! Prof's Big Idea (Juniors) by Geoff Bamber Directed by Jackie Hall Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent chaos. The Professor is on the verge of a breakthrough - a "Big Idea" that will change the world forever. The only problem? Science is never quite as simple as it looks on paper. Between malfunctioning gadgets, eccentric assistants, and the inevitable logic of things going spectacularly wrong, the lab is becoming a danger zone. Fast-paced and full of wit, this play explores the fine line between a stroke of genius and a total disaster. Will the Professors invention save the day, or will the experiment blow up in everyones face? Goldilocks On Trial (Seniors) by Ed Monk Directed by Damien Cullen The Crime of the Century in a Fairy-tale Kingdom. Goldilocks is a sweet, innocent girl with golden hair, right? Wrong. According to the Three Bears, shes a home-invading delinquent who has a reckless disregard for porridge and personal property. In this hilarious courtroom comedy, the scales of justice are put to the test. With a cast of familiar fairy-tale witnesses and a jury that might be more than a little biased, its up to the lawyers to decide: Is Goldilocks a misunderstood adventurer or a career criminal? You be the judge! About Guide Bridge Youth Theatre Jackie and Damien have been busy welcoming new members to the Youth Theatre whilst working with all the children honing their skills on improvisation and characterisation in preparation for these two one act plays. We have some great young characters who love to showcase their skills especially when working in groups with their co-stars in the improvised drama sessions held each Monday at the Theatre. For more information about the GBYT, contact Barbara (email: [email protected]).

'And the Band Played On: Tales of the Titanic' Brought to you by Mark Lewellin and Sue Holden Jones The deck was tilting, the air was freezing, and the world was ending - but the music never stopped. Join us for "And the Band Played On: Tales of the Titanic," an immersive theatrical journey illustrating the fate of the RMS Titanic, honouring those who lost their lives and the men and women who chose courage over survival. This isn't just a story about a ship; its a tribute to the human spirits refusal to be silenced by the dark. Why You Must Experience It: The Unbroken Melody: Find out what did the band play? Hear the hauntingly beautiful arrangements of some of the actual hymns and ragtime hits played on that fateful night in 1912. The Human Connection: Moving, first-hand accounts from survivors and the reconstructed stories of the event leading to the sinking. Why did the impossible happen? Atmospheric Storytelling: Step back in time with a production that blends historical accuracy with breath-taking emotional depth. "A masterful tribute to the ultimate act of grace under pressure. You may leave with a saddened heart but an inspired soul." Tickets just 10pp

Toe Tappers and Tiny Toes take over the Guide Bridge Theatre stage with their show CELEBRATE, a special charity performance in celebration of their 21s birthday. Toe Tappers and Tiny Toes is a local dance school based at Albion Church , Ashton under Lyne. They are part of the American Association of Dance (AAD), and offer Musical Movement, Ballet, Mime, Acro Tap and Modern from age 3 to adults for all abilities. They perform annually at the Winter Gardens, Blackpool with the AAD and have dancers who performed at ballet scholarships in Blackburn and Buxton. They support Albion church and childrens charities such as Francis House, Special care, childrens epilepsy and offer dance to children with disabilities. For further information about Toe Tappers and Tiny Toes please contact Janet on 07889 137907

Guide Bridge Theatre presents: A Murder Mystery Guide Bridge Theatre invites you back, for the long-awaited return of a night of Murder, Mystery, and Intrigue! Fancy yourself as a Sherlock, Marple or Poirot? Come and join us at GBT to play detective, as you watch the events unfold. Examine the evidence, scrutinise the clues (watch out for the red herrings!), interrogate the suspects and then work out whodunit! - Give the best answer and you'll win a prizeoh and we'll throw in a delicious buffet as well! Del Fyniam is chair of his local gardening club, and a multiple winner of the annual prize for the biggest leeks. But not everything in the garden is rosy. Del has called an emergency committee meeting to discuss a few urgent matters, and possibly conduct a leek enquiry. But who will soon cause him to be pushing up the daisies?

Jon Loomes - Dust in the Sun: Album and Novel Launch In the summer of 1976, during the long drought, a record was made in the remote Welsh village of Llanddewi Brefi. It was never properly released. The label collapsed, the master tapes were lost, and only a handful of copies were said to survive. Dust in the Sun presents that lost album alongside the novel that tells the story of its making. In this launch performance, songs from the record are performed live in the style and spirit of the 1970s folk revival, interwoven with readings that trace the events surrounding the recording. What emerges is a portrait of a place where music, memory and landscape begin to blur, and where the act of making a record becomes something far more dangerous than it first appears. For more information about Jon Loomes visit: www.jon-loomes.com [http://www.jon-loomes.com]