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

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.

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.

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.

Dial 'M' for Murder By Frederick Knott A plan. A marriage. A deadly intention. Tony Wendice has thought of everything. Every detail is in place. Every move carefully calculated. What he sets in motion should be the perfect crime. But perfection is a fragile thing. As events begin to unfold, control starts to slip, and what follows becomes a gripping game of suspicion, deception and quiet manipulation. Every word matters. Every detail counts. And somewhere, something doesnt quite add up. Set in the 1950s, this classic thriller draws you into a world where appearances deceive, and nothing is ever quite as simple as it seems. Tense, intelligent and meticulously crafted, Dial 'M' for Murder invites you to follow the clues if you can keep up. Why come along? A tightly woven mystery that rewards close attention Twists that unfold with precision Rich characters with everything at stake A timeless story of betrayal, marriage and motive The perfect crime only works if no one sees it coming This amateur production of Dial M for Murderis presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk [//www.concordtheatricals.co.uk] Presented by the Dilys Guite Players - Registered charity no. 222587

The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican's 20th Anniversary Tour: Two decades is too old to quit! Put on yer finest knitted gladrags, style your barnet, put on your dancing shoes and bring your finest singing voices, as we cordially invite you to witness the Greatest Show On Earth (in tank-tops). Founded in Barnsley Rock City in 2006 by their outspoken and energetic ringleader, Scott Doonican, The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican are on a mission! Far from being your typical folk ensemble, this cult-like collective of like-minded knit-wear enthusiasts are determined to follow in their spiritual fathers immortal footsteps and keep his legacy alive. Scott and his brothers-from-other-mothers, Mo-Jo Doonican, Dave Doonican and the Rt. Rev. Jeremiah Rickenbacker Doonican III, have quite the talent for Bar-Stewardizing other famous peoples songs with new satirical comedy lyrics, on folk instruments. To complete their outrageously understated image, the Doonicans have become instantly recognisable in festival fields and venues up and down the country for their immaculate hair and their stylish choice of sexy knitwear, and instantly memorable for their lairy, no-holds-barred, anarchic live shows. A group that is both perpetually on the move, ever-evolving and joyously independent, they have played over 1450 side-splitting shows to date, and have brought smiles and belly-laughs to audiences across the UK; from Barnsley to Barnstaple, from Glastonbury to Glasgow. They continue to wow audiences with a fine selection of their greatest hits, including the likes of Jump Ararnd, The Lady In Greggs, "The Devil Went Darn To Barnsley", "How Deep Is Your Glove?", "Paint 'em Back", "Goat Yoga", and "Turkey Teeth". The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican cant wait to bring the circus back to The Lantern they promise that they WILL rock you but gently! TESTIMONIALS "The best thing to come out of Barnsley, since the A61 to Sheffield" Jarvis Cocker "The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican are very, very funny... parodists extraordinaire. One of the hardest working and best live acts on the planet" Mike Harding "Always enjoy the boys from The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican. When the North goes independent I am suggesting Too Good To Be Jus is our national anthem. Great fun" Jason Manford "A ridiculous family of genius, hilarious, irresistible music makers, currently crowd-surfing to the bar and beyond, into the venues and music festivals of the UK. They're quality. Long may they rock... but gently." Eliza Carthy "The 8th wonder of the world is actually in Yorkshire... a wonderful Yorkshire genius collective known as The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican. To see them is to know true magnificence" Kate Rusby "An act that you will want to see over and over again. Absolutely hilarious" Dave Pegg, Fairport Convention "Oh man! You guys look crazier than us!" Wayne Coyne, frontman from six-time Grammy winners, The Flaming Lips "Great guys. They ROCK!" Graham Oliver, from Barnsley NWOBHM-legends Saxon "The Doonicans put Barnsley on the map!!" Dan Donnelly, The Levellers "Titans of Tomfoolery. They have without question added a dimension to the cultural life of Barnsley." Dave Burland, Folk Musician "Like The Barron Knights - on speed!" The Staffordshire Sentinel "I HATE THE BAR-STEWARD SONS OF VAL DOONICAN. THEY'RE THE WORST KIND OF COMEDY FOLK BAND. NO COMEDY FOLK BAND IN THE HISTORY OF COMEDY FOLK BANDS HAVE EVER BEEN AS BAD AT THEM. EVER. THEY WROTE FAKE NEWS SONGS ABOUT ME. SO DISRESPECTFUL. SO BAD. SO NASTY. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION ON THIS MATTER. President DJT" Donald Judas Trump, President of The United States of America via Truth Social

Robin Grey comes to The Lantern Theatre as part of a tour returning to public performance under his own name after a number of years with his critically acclaimed show, Three Acres And A Cow. The evening will feature songs from his first five albums interwoven with new material written since relocating to Sheffield in 2018. Expect a mixture of experimental folk, wistful observation, beauty, and humour. 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 Robin Grey Singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Robin Grey started his music career at the age of 5 with the help of a Fisher-Price cassette recorder and a love of singing Burt Bacharach songs to his grandma. His musical tastes soon branched out, thanks to mix tapes that arrived in the post featuring Michael Jackson and Kirsty MacColl, after he collected and sent off tokens from overly sugared breakfast cereal packets. Inspired by Leonard Cohen, R.E.M., Joanna Newsome and Milan Kundera amongst many others, he has since composed five albums of thoughtful and gently experimental folk music which have been streamed over 8m times, winning him fans as far away as Brazil, Korea and Russia. His music has ended up in a cult Korean gay movie, a French TV comedy series and other suitably random locations. As a live performer Robin has graced the boards of Cecil Sharpe House, Hebden Bridge Trade's Club, The Union Chapel and numerous corners of the Glastonbury Festival, sharing stages along the way with Kae Tempest, Peggy Seeger, Nick Mulvey, Sam Lee and Ed Sheeran (who asked Robin to be in a band with him). With other hats on, Robin devised and performs a show called 'Three Acres And A Cow' , teaching people about English radical history through folk songs; has been undertaking musical cycling pilgrimages under the rubric of 'Pedal Folk' and also infamously serenaded David Cameron during the 2015 general election, which won him praise from Ian Hislop on Have I Got News For You and Charlie Brooker ...plus some less flattering attention from Guido Fawkes in The Sun. "Robin Grey has a lovely fresh approach to the folk genre. A honeyed yet clear voice and his lyrics are arresting. A real treasure." The Londonist "The poetic mastery of Grey's folk tales is a joy to behold." The Camden New Journal "Bluesy and folky, with enough embellishment to add texture, but which never detracts from the gentle strum of the guitar and raspy, but not growling quality of his voice... really bloody good." Song by Toad "...a hidden treasure of the European underground ... his music is a thing of complete and utter beauty." Fensepost https://www.robingrey.com/ https://www.instagram.com/robingrey / https://robingrey.bandcamp.com/

The Lantern is thrilled to host the Drama Kids, end of term performances! Hillsborough Primary All bookings are password protected and not available to the general public. Speak to your Drama Kids contact if you haven't received the password.

Picking Up Stones Written and performed by Sandra Laub An American Jewish woman wakes to a nightmare. In this powerful one-woman performance, Sandra Laub explores the human impact of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through personal stories, historical memory and questions of identity, grief and coexistence. Hailed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the production gives voice to multiple perspectives, from Israeli families and peace activists to Palestinian mothers, American students and survivors of violence on all sides of the conflict. Using stones as a central metaphor for memory, loss and endurance, the play blends physical storytelling, music and shifting characterisation to examine the emotional aftermath of October 7, 2023, and the war in Gaza. Rather than offering simple answers, Picking Up Stones asks audiences to sit with difficult questions about trauma, history, responsibility and humanity. At its heart is a search for understanding in the face of division, and the exhausting but essential work of recognising one anothers humanity. Running time: Approximately 80 minutes, no interval. The performance will be followed by a talk-back lasting approximately 30 to 45 minutes.