Scott Doonican brings his annual run of 'ONE MAN SHOW' back to his favourite venue on the planet, The Lantern Theatre in Sheffield. 2026 just happens to mark 20 years since Scott formed the UK's hardest working comedy folk band, The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican, and to mark this landmark year, he's centering his show around a load of stories and songs spanning two decades of life on the road. Expect silliness, shenanigans, singalongs and yarns a-plenty as Scott delivers a brief history of The Bar-Steward Sons on his " Magical History Tour ". As the charismatic frontman of the UK's hardest-working comedy band, 'The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican', Scott Doonican is a debonair and theatrical performer with superb hair and more style than you could shake a Milan catwalk at. As a solo performer, Scott's 'One Man Show' shows are every bit as funny, dynamic and engaging as those with his band, and he is equally at ease in front of large festival crowds, as he would be in a theatre or down the pub. This is where Scott Doonican the story-teller, entertainer and consummate showman, gets the opportunity to take his band's extensive back-catalogue of comic-songs and perform them, stripped-back, on just his battered 'Workhorse' acoustic guitar or his little ukulele in his hand. Following, in the footsteps of his comedy-folk heroes (Mike Harding, Jasper Carrott, Billy Connolly, Richard Digance, Jake Thackeray et al), here, the Doonicans' side-splitting song-smithery, comes to the fore, often accompanied by with an abundance of cracking yarns, giving a charming insight to the inspiration behind them. He's on a mission to bring comedy-folk back to the masses for the 21st Century. This year will mark two decades of Scott bringing smiles and belly-laughs to audiences across the UK; from Barnsley to Barnstaple, from Glasgow to Glastonbury Festival. He continues to wow audiences with a fine selection of The Bar-Steward Sons' greatest hits, including the likes of The Lady In Greggs, "How Deep Is Your Glove?", "Nandos", Paint 'em Back", "Walking In Manpiss" and Turkey Teeth. With over 1400 shows under his belt to date, Scott Doonican is driven by the desire to leave his audiences with a big grin on their faces. He subscribes to the same wise words of his spiritual father, Val Doonican, that, "When you entertain the public, it's no good just having good music or singing, you must also have entertainment value, so people will go home having a good time". So, can you trust him? To be silly, yes. To behave, hell no. Like a bus conductor standing in front of an orchestra with a spoon in one hand and a pint in the other, Scott Doonican is quite clearly here for a good time, not a long time. After his completely SOLD OUT 2024 'SOUP On The Road' and 2025 'MARMITE' Tour, Scott can't wait to return to Sheffield, and promises that he will rock you, but gently. "The best thing to come out of Barnsley since the A61 to Sheffield" Jarvis Cocker, Pulp "Very, very funny. One of the hardest working and best live acts on the planet, bringing light to dark corners and joy to babes and toothless mumblers alike. Lovely stuff." Mike Harding, Comedian, Folk Musician, Author & Broadcaster "When the North goes independent I am suggesting 'Too Good To Be Jus' is our national anthem. Great fun" Jason Manford, Comedian "A ridiculous, genius, hilarious, irresistible music maker, currently crowd-surfing to the bar and beyond, into the venues and music festivals of the UK." Eliza Carthy MBE, Folk Musician "An act that you will want to see over and over again. Absolutely hilarious" Dave Pegg, Fairport Convention

Kent born songstress Sorrel Nation brings a soulful mix of folk rock, with powerful vocals and haunting melodies. Sorrel engages audiences with emotive lyrics, ’70s inspired style and is known for impressive covers of Gillian Welch, Fleetwood Mac and Portishead. She has performed at well-known music venues across London and the South East, supporting folk legends such as Dave Swarbrick, Martin Carthy, Madison Violet, Gemma Hayes and rock legend Tom Hingley. And yes…Sorrel Nation is her real name.

Carrie Martin is no stranger to Sheffield, but May brings her to the stage of The Lantern Theatre for the first time! While this more then accomplished folkie has performed with the likes of Gordon Giltrap and Oliver Wakeman, and attracted alumni from Fairport Convention, Steely Dan and Heart to her recordings, she is quite happy as a solo artist accompanying herself on stage with guitar or dulcimer. Carrie's remarkable voice shines above her intricate guitar parts. Expect an evening of gentle warmth, with exquisitely played intimate songs that call to the soul. The evening will be opened with a set from local artist Jon Cocker. This is one of a series of events organised by RoughDraftAudio, promoting live music in Sheffield. If you'd like to find out more about other events, sign up to the newsletter at https://www.roughdraftaudio.com/music/signup.htm Carrie Martin Carrie is a true born and bred Yorkshire lass, born in Hull. She first picked up a guitar at the age of four and made her first public performance at the tender age of nine, playing at a school concert, later in clubs alongside her father, who worked the circuit as a guitarist and vocalist. In her teens, she made a name for herself locally, with her songs played on local radio and performing live. By the end of her teens, she changed tack, inspired by the Bangles, Transvision Vamp and Ann Wilson from Heart, dropping the guitar in favour of a rock chick makeover and fronting bands as a singer. Her first band was named Foreign Affair, which may well be one of the most eighties names for a band ever conceived! After marrying, she had twin boys and abandoned the guitar to the loft, where it gathered dust for two decades. In 2011 she attended a Gordon Giltrap concert only to be invited to step in as support act when the opening act backed out. Encouraged enormously by Gordon, she played and sang a short set of cover versions, and even accompanied him at one point. From this, and with Gordons support, a new musical career started to take shape. She quite soon put out her first release, a seven-track EP entitled Luna, which gathered some favourable attention, including from Giltrap. He became her chief mentor and close friend. Carrie puts a great deal of the success she has had down to his friendship and unflagging support. 2014 saw the release of her first full album, What If, on which she was joined as guest musicians by not only Gordon but also Oliver Wakeman (son of Rick) and Ric Sanders from Fairport Convention . She also became an endorser of Vintage / JHS guitars, her instrument of choice for some years and a source of constant support. She has also become the proud owner of a beautiful Fylde guitar, crafted by the great guitar-maker Roger Bucknall. Seductive Sky was the next release in 2018. This time the sound was much richer, with a full band treatment on several of its tracks, once again there were guest players, Gordon Giltrap MBE , Oliver Wakeman , and Elliott Randall . The album demonstrates a quantum leap in terms of the subtlety and craftsmanship of her songwriting, both musically and lyrically. Entity followed Seductive Sky in 2020, recorded partly by Mikey Scott. Carries own son Ben, having only just finished his degree in sound engineering, stepped up to finish recording the last bits of the album after the pandemic took hold. Mixed and mastered by Wayne Proctor of House of Tone it once again saw Oliver Wakeman and Gordon Giltrap guesting with the addition of ex Bad Company guitarist Dave Colwell on two of the tracks. It gained great reviews and airplay. Evergreen followed three years later and managed to be Carries most eclectic and varied collection yet, featuring tracks ranging from the delicate folk of Lost In The Right Time, through the soul-blues of Deep Blue Heaven and the poppier Girl With A Feather, all the way to the prog-rock influences displayed on the ambitious eight-minute Keep In The Light. Phenomenal Rick Wakeman CBE Martin is equally skilled on guitar, on vocals and as writer. The voice is distinctive - the crystalline purity and range of a Kate Bush, the depth and delicacy of a Sandy Denny. And the songs to which she applies them stand up with any of her peers. The chord sequence f the title track evokes Joni Micthells Hejira album. Trevor Raggatt, RnR Magazine. Its pretty obvious from the moment you hear Carrie Martin sing that she is an outstanding vocalist with passion in each breath. Don't be too sidetracked by that voice and stage persona and well-crafted songs, because you might just miss the fact that she is a fine guitar player as well! Gordon Giltrap https://www.carriemartin.co.uk/ https://carriemartin1.bandcamp.com/ https://www.facebook.com/carriemartin259 https://www.instagram.com/carriemartinmusic/ Jon Cocker Jon plays a warm, full-sounding blend of alternative/folk acoustic music. He grew up in Sheffield (UK) and played in bands in Leeds and Norwich, inspired by artists such as The Allman Brothers . He uses his band experience to combine a full guitar sound with insightful, emotive vocals, playing at festivals such as Wild Paths in Norwich alongside the likes of Jos Gonzlez . Performing regularly in Leeds, Sheffield and surrounding areas, his debut EP was likened to Nick Drake , Neil Young, and Jeff Buckley , and captures all the emotion possible in this age of time pressures and distraction. His second album, Two, expands on this, with a slightly more uplifting edge. Jon balances thoughtful nature-inspired vocals with his Sheffield city roots, to produce a subtle yet euphoric sound appreciated at gigs across the UK. "Jon Cocker is an authentic Cockers got some of Youngs twang and a touch of Buckleys rare vibrating sustain. Sparse production is all thats needed to aid in the illumination of this brilliant performance. Cocker effectively captures their aura in song." The Wild Is Calling Cockers excellent acoustic guitar playing, freewheeling sense for melody, soulful vocals, and intimate recordings on not only Green Blue but his entire self-titled EP make it easy to draw comparison between him and Nick Drake. As he sings All my love fades to grey, you feel the muted reality of heartache: no spectacle, just a lingering lack of colour." COUNTERZINE "This musician from the United Kingdom has definitely deserved your attention. Especially if you want to spend some little time for your summertime sadness. His voice sounds so alive. As a contrast for modern autotune addiction, these waves go through the ears right into my heart." FAETON MUSIC https://www.joncocker.com/ https://joncocker.bandcamp.com https://www.facebook.com/joncockermusic/ https://www.instagram.com/joncocker/ https://www.joncocker.com/stream

theOBJECTproject presents PIXIEMATOSIS Unhinged puppetry for adults and older children Everything was perfect in the midnight garden. The flowers grew, the fairies flew, the grobbity grobbits danced a merry dance in the twinkly moonlight. Then one day, without warning, the deranged gardener from next door threw the shed door wide, and the pixies of this nocturnal paradise realised, far too late, that they were being exploited for a distinctly sinister purpose. Come along, be charmed, be appalled; get swept up in a story of greed and the existential madness of it all. Featuring sqwonky puppets, odd-automata and a slew of charity-shop rejects, Pixiematosis is not unlike watching a lost episode of Bagpuss, filmed by the Tales of the Unexpected crew... or witnessing Fingermouse being folded up and used to stop a pub table wobbling. There is a lot of love in this show. Surprises; delightful and traumatic. Laughter and horror. I highly recommend it." - Audience member, Ashburton Arts Centre Age: Adults and 14+ (those under 14 can attend with a responsible adult) Run time: 50 mins + 15-20 min post-show meet the puppets. Content warnings: Primarily mime with occasional strong language. Audio representations of military conflict. Features puppet representations of death, violence and burial.

Singer-songwriter in a tradition that spans cultures and genres with peerless musicianship.

New Writing: The Shorts - Part One This year, the festival is bigger and bolder than ever, split into two exciting programmes! Each night bursts with fresh stories, bold ideas, and local voices ready to surprise, challenge, and delight you. Part One: 13 - 15 April Prepare to be charmed, shocked, and moved by a collection of short plays that will make you see the world a little differently. Part Two: 16 - 18 April The story continues! A second programme of daring new writing, showcasing the next wave of local writing talent. Tickets: 5 per person, per part New Writing Pass: Book both Part One and Part Two together, and the discount is applied automatically at checkout see both shows for just 8 per person

New Writing: The Shorts - Part Two This year, the festival is bigger and bolder than ever, split into two exciting programmes! Each night bursts with fresh stories, bold ideas, and local voices ready to surprise, challenge, and delight you. Part One: 13 - 15 April Prepare to be charmed, shocked, and moved by a collection of short plays that will make you see the world a little differently. Part Two: 16 - 18 April The story continues! A second programme of daring new writing, showcasing the next wave of local writing talent. Tickets: 5 per person, per part New Writing Pass: Book both Part One and Part Two together, and the discount is applied automatically at checkout see both shows for just 8 per person

Laugh, learn and be inspired Rita is a hairdresser with big dreams and an even bigger curiosity about the world. Shes determined to change her life, but her new lecturer, Frank, isnt quite sure what to make of her at first. Educating Rita is a witty, warm and unforgettable story about self-discovery, friendship and the choices that shape us. Full of laughter, heart and sharp dialogue, it will make you think, smile and maybe even reflect on your own journey. In this intimate space, you are right in the heart of the story, feeling every laugh, sigh and spark between these two brilliantly mismatched characters. This amateur production of Educating Rita is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk

A lonely planet. A shattered world. A storm waiting to break. This September, The Lantern presents Shakespeares The Tempest, brought to you in a bold new adaptation by Nick Tait. Transported to an eerie, otherworldly setting, this much-loved classic unfolds on a desolate planet at the far edge of civilisation. Here, Prospero rules with intelligence, bitterness and brilliance, shaping events with magic and cunning. But when old enemies appear on the horizon, the chance for revenge collides with the possibility of forgiveness, and nothing will ever be the same again. Full of wonder, humour and human heart, The Tempest is a thrilling tale of power, redemption and second chances, reimagined for a strange and unforgettable new world. Shakespeare at The Lantern is always popular, so early booking is strongly recommended.

After a successful 40th Anniversary tour Autumn/Winter 2025 Martin Stephenson will be taking a stripped back acoustic Daintees trio out for more intimate surroundings, and were delighted that they are bringing the show to The Lantern! They will be performing an assortment of songs spanning four major albums, recorded between 1985 and 1991, such as Boat to Bolivia, Gladsome Humour & Blue, Salutation Road and The Boys Heart Always delighted to be back in Sheffield, Daintees Acoustic Trio welcome you to what will be a warm and joyous evening. Dont miss out! builds bridges between love and hate, between cradle and grave, between folk and pop, between the past and present ~ NME

ImproVision is an improv comedy alternative to the Eurovision Song Contest! SaSS improv are gathering an exciting group of improvisers and musicians to create a show you have never seen before. With all of the glitz, glamour, and ridiculousness of Eurovision but none of the politics! Each act will represent a Fictional nation (Think Narnia Outer space The garden) and will create improvised songs based on your suggestions. Then obviously you will be able to vote for a winner. Improvision 2025 was won by the Haunted Mansion, so this years show will have some spooky twists. If you love Eurovision and comedy we think you will love this. If you hate Eurovision and love comedy we think you will love this. Sing, Dance and laugh the night away!

Nick Battle is an unbelievable man of music, his accomplishments are almost too vast to write about. With decades in the music industry under his belt, hes written songs with Gary Barlow and collaborated with legends like Cliff Richard and Michael Ball . His legacy is one of quiet influence and enduring talent. His album Audience of One is a compelling collection of Americana influenced songs, each track echoing the heartfelt storytelling of his life. A body of work that speaks to both his versatility and longevity in the business, rich in melody and emotion, wrapped in timeless sound. An accomplished songwriter and musician he made his recording debut over 50 years ago with progressive rock band After The Fire . His latest album The Dark Passenger , a limited numbered edition, reflects a lifetime devoted to music - a deeply personal collection that resonates with emotion. An interesting start to the autumn, something a little different for The Lantern Theatre. We were introduced to Nick last year, and have invited him to back to play for us. He will be joined by some very special guests. It promises to be a night of great songs and stories from his fifty years in the music business http://nickbattleofficial.co.uk/ https://www.instagram.com/nickbattleofficial/ https://nickbattle1.bandcamp.com/ This is one of a series of events organised by RoughDraftAudio, promoting live music in Sheffield. If you'd like to find out more about other events, sign up to the newsletter at https://www.roughdraftaudio.com/music/signup.htm or visit https://www.roughdraftaudio.com/events/

Written by Spike Milligan and Ronnie Barker Adapted by John Hewer Something is rotten in Old London Town... In Victorian England, a rotten, raspberry blower is claiming the lives of the upper-classes. The dark alleyways and moonlit graveyards of London are alive with the repetitive dins of the Phantom. Inspector Corner of the Yard and his faithful sidekick, Sergeant Bowles, are fed up with these din-dins. The case is afoot. Will the Phantom be uncloaked? All will be revealed... particularly if the Phantom uncloaks himself. Immortalised by The Two Ronnies, this Jack the Ripper parody is raspberry-jam-packed with Spike Milligan’s and Ronnie Barker’s love of surreal absurdism, clever puns, near-the-knuckle ribaldry, quick-fire jokes and famous wordplay. Celebrating the 50th anniversary since its original broadcast in 1976, this newly adapted stage play brings the Phantom back to life like never before. Presented by Hambledon Productions with the kind permission of Spike Milligan Productions Ltd and Handles for Forks Ltd.

Lead by Luke Mosely Explore the dynamic acting technique developed by Vsevolod Meyerhold, where movement, rhythm and precision shape dramatic storytelling. Through a series of practical exercises, youll discover how physical action, balance and control can create tension and presence on stage. No previous experience required, just comfortable clothing and a willingness to explore physical performance.

Lead by Alison Glentworth This workshop is designed for anyone interested in the process of staging a play from the initial reading to dress rehearsal and the week of the performances. What is needed to enable all of this to happen in a timely, organised and professional manner? Well explore: Choosing the play. What draws you to the play and inspires you to want to direct it? Audition workshop process Rehearsal process Developing characters in a play Designing the set Planning for technical requirements: lighting & sound design & projections Costume Production team roles including the Producer, Director, Assistant Director and Stage Manager Q and A The workshop will draw on insights from previous DGP community theatre productions at The Lantern. If youre interested in the art of bringing a play from page to stage, please come along and join us!

Lead by Jo Davies Ever wondered how actors create convincing fights on stage while staying completely safe? This dynamic beginners workshop introduces the fundamentals of stage combat. Youll learn basic unarmed moves including punches, slaps and simple grabs with a strong focus on safety, control and storytelling. Discover how to build tension, character and drama through choreographed movement. No experience is necessary, just comfortable clothing and a willingness to work collaboratively. Perfect for performers looking to add excitement and physical confidence to their stage skills.

Lead by Alison Glentworth and Kevin Gibbard-Jackson Interested in directing a main production at The Lantern in the 2027 season? Join us for a practical workshop designed to help you pitch with clarity and confidence. Well explore what makes a strong proposal, what the Trustees and Creative Team consider when shaping a balanced season, and how to develop your idea so it works effectively in our intimate 84 seat Victorian theatre. Well also share insights from our own productions and wider community theatre trends, alongside the financial realities that keep the charity sustainable. The session will cover: Choosing the right play and checking performance rights Season balance, audience appeal and practical viability Staging considerations in our space The producer role and audition planning Next steps and Q and A A supportive, honest session to help you shape your vision and feel ready to step forward.

Award-winning British songwriters, composers and multi-instrumentalists Chrissy Mostyn and Rick Pilkington are The Blackheart Orchestra. One of the must-see bands pioneering folktronica duo blend musical styles seamlessly sidestepping boundaries to create music huge enough to fill a cathedral. Always producing something beyond all easily marketed genres, their multi-instrumental sonic landscapes have always been too unpredictable and adventurous for the mainstream. Fusing acoustic fragility and pulsing electronica, The Blackheart Orchestra bring together stringed instrument dexterity with 80's synthesisers and clear classical influences. Often mistaken for an eight-piece band on first listen, they are found on stage continuously changing from electric and acoustic guitars, bowed guitar, piano, organ, bass and electronic percussion to vintage synthesisers, omnichord and melodica in a complex choreographed weave of musical moods and textures. One moment their sound is minimal and molecular, the next a mountain-like wall of sound with vast symphonic climaxes. Their four critically acclaimed albums and mesmerising live shows have won them obsessive worldwide fans, plaudits from musical giants and placements on TV commercials and films. Chrissy Mostyn's haunting vocals, the Mike Oldfield-like multi-instrumental playing of Rick Pilkington plus their fearless combination of conventional and unconventional all reflect their self-created universe where art meets sound and words paint pictures that take you with them on their deep musical journey into the human psyche.

Arthur Carmichael and Mitchell Hargrieve run one of the most successful law practises in Philadelphia, however when they take on the shocking case of Rita Lempkin, who openly admits that she murdered her real-estate mogul husband Ralph, things grow tense. Complications grow further with the similarities the Lempkin case shares with that of Lucy Balsam, whom nine years ago Arthur got off when accused of murdering her own father. However Lucy Balsam has been Lucy Carmichael now for some time. Also in the office is Talia Cooper, a young intern, who is being put at odds as a pawn in the endless power struggle shared by Arthur and Mitch. These five figures and their personal powerplays all intertwine for a riveting, intelligent, dense and dynamic legal thriller and psycho-sexual game of manipulation and struggle.