MARCH E-DIARY

Welcome to the Fairfield Halls March E-Diary. Listed below are the month's highlights followed by a complete listing of events day-by-day. Thanks for subscribing and we hope to see you soon at Fairfield.
 

MARCH 2012 HIGHLIGHTS.....

MUSIC

Chris Dean's Syd Lawrence Orchestra... Real Diamond... Motown and Philadelphia on Tour... The Bachelors... David Rees-Williams Trio... The Bootleg Beatles in Concert... C'mon Everybody... The Solid Silver 60s Show 2012... The Osmonds Final UK Tour... Bjorn Again 2012 Spring Party with Very Special Guests Stavros Flatley... The Billy Fury Years... Andy Abraham's History of the Big Bands... Yuriy Galkin Nonet... The Bootleg Sixties... Swinging at the Cotton Club

CLASSICAL

London Mozart Players... New Queen's Hall Orchestra... Verdi La Traviata

FAMILY

Arthur Davison Family Concert... American Superslam Wrestling... Peppa Pig's Treasure Hunt

THEATRE

Less Than Kind... Hull Truck Theatre Presents DNA... All the Fun of the Fair Starring David Essex... Freshly Fired Play Readings

FILMS

War Horse (Cert 12a)... Savage Messiah (Cert 18)... Mahler (Cert 15)

MATINEE SHOWS / LUNCHTIME EVENTS

Phillip Dyson... Croydon Stagers... West End Songbook

COMEDY

Sacrebleu the Cabaret

FESTIVAL OF YOUTH ARTS

Croydon Schools' Music Association... Croydon Schools' Dance Association... Croydon Music and Arts Showcase 2012... Sutton & District Music Association Festival Concert 2012

OTHER

In Celebration of My Sisters... An Evening of Burlesque

EXHIBITIONS

Every Woman's Lifestyle Expo... Faces at Fairfield

APRIL HIGHLIGHTS

The Artist (Cert PG)... Peppa Pig's Treasure Hunt... Benefit Concert for SCAT... The Albion Band... The Music Lovers (Cert 18)... West End Songbook... Sacrebleu the Cabaret... Philip Fowke... Sense and Sensibility... The Skin I Live In (Cert 15)... Submarine (Cert 15)... Stand! Presents Dreadzone Plus Support... The Descendants (Cert 15)... Lonnie Donegan Jnr and His Skiffle Band... Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (Cert 15)... Raining Men... One Night of Elvis... Biutiful (Cert 15)... Let There Be Drums... The Searchers... Violin and Piano Duos by Tamsin Waley-Cohen and Jakob Fichert...Jethro... Freshly Fired... Winter Dance Party... The Johnny Cash Roadshow... London Mozart Players...  We'll Meet Again... Bobby Socks and Blue Jeans... Cosi fan tutte - Swansea City Opera... Real Thing... The Wheels on the Bus

ALL THE FUN OF THE FAIR

   13 - 17 March: TV's newest EastEnders star, David Essex Leads the cast of his musical set in a world of an authentic East End funfair. David Essex and Boogie Nights Creator Jon Conway invite you to a rollercoaster ride of a musical, underscored by a helter-skelter of David Essex hits such as: Winter’s Tale, Hold Me Close, Gonna Make You a Star, Me and My Girl, Nightclubbing, Silver Dream Machine and Rock On. Inspired by David’s album All the Fun of the Fair, David plays funfair Owner Levi Lee, recently widowed and father of a rebellious teenage son, Jack. Like father like son, they’ll take you for a ride. Danger and mysticism lurk in the future, as predicted by the gypsy fortune teller, Rosa, who is in love with Levi. Dodgems and motorbikes, crafty cons and candy floss, fairground horses and fights, along with romance and rock and roll mean you’re sure to go on a rollercoaster of a ride, but beware… all is not always fun at

the fair! Click here to book 

  lessLESS

PEPPA PIG'S TREASURE HUNT

30 March - 1 April: Ahoy there me Hearties! Peppa Pig and her friends are going on a treasure hunt and need your help! Peppa, George and Danny Dog are up to fun and games on a day out on Grandad Dog's boat. Help them, with Pedro Pony, Polly Parrot and Zoe Zebra to follow the clues and find their treasure as they all enjoy a day of adventure. Following the incredible sell-out success of Peppa Pig’s Party, Peppa is back with a brand new show featuring true to life puppets, perfect singalong songs and a new story that will charm and delight all her fans. Full sail! Ahoy! Arrrrr! Click here to book  

LESS THAN KIND BY TERENCE RATTIGAN

28 February - 3 March: London 1944. With the war reaching its climax on the Normandy beaches, while at home ‘buzzbombs’ are falling on London, a senior Cabinet Minister in charge of tank production also has domestic problems. He is having an affair with a charming widow whose son, evacuated to Canada for the duration, now returns as a teenager socialist and lambasts the Minister as a lascivious capitalist exploiter. A sparkling comedy of manners and a psycho-sexual drama, Less Than Kind has astounded critics. Starring James Wilby (Maurice, Gosford Park) and Sara Crowe (Calendar Girls, Four Weddings and a

Funeral). Click here to book

HULL TRUCK THEATRE PRESENTS DNA

8-10 March: Starring James Alexandrou (EastEnders).   A compelling thriller by award winning writer Dennis Kelly. Directed and designed by Anthony Banks (National Theatre). A group of teenagers do something bad, really bad, then panic and cover the whole thing up. But when they find that the cover-up unites them and brings harmony to their otherwise fractious lives, where’s the incentive to put things right  ?  The Guardian gave it a fantastic 4 out of 5 stars - click here to read the review Click here to book

 FACES AT FAIRFIELD

5 March - 2 June: Fairfield will be hosting a major three-month exhibition featuring the work of acclaimed photographer Frazer Ashford that revolves around his work at Fairfield in the 1970s and 1980s. This is part of Fairfield's 50th Anniversary celebrations and will feature famous 'faces' such as David Bowie, Elton John and many others.

SURREY WEDDING FAIR AT FAIRFIELD HALLS - THIS SUNDAY!

19 February: This is an event not to be missed if you are currently planning your own very special day. Brides, grooms and all the family are welcome to come and meet over 100 major national and local wedding suppliers at one the South’s biggest wedding fairs. Click here for more information. Don't forget that Fairfield Halls is licensed to hold Civil Weddings and receptions for up to 400 people.

AN EVENING OF BURLESQUE

28 April: Direct from London’s West End, the newest sizzling spectacular on tour comes to town with an all-star cast of elegant, beautiful girls... It’s all tease, no sleaze as corsets, killer heels, stockings aplenty, sultry vocals, breathtaking choreography, mischief, magic, frivolity and fun collide. Sparkling with couture costumes recalling the golden eras of glamour. . . enjoy the ultimate tease. Over 18s. Click here to book

INTERNATIONAL WOMAN’S MONTH AND MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATIONS

17 & 18 March: Every Woman’s Lifestyle Expo - This two day Woman’s Lifestyle Expo will show case all types of international Women’s Lifestyle including health, massage, beauty tips, jewellery, international designer shoes and handbags, lingerie, makeovers and hair demonstration, plus art, books and special Mothers’ Day presents. Hosted by Janelle Oswald. In Celebration of My Sisters – The Brothers Salute You (18 March): Hosted by Brenda Emmanus (BBC TV) this Mother’s Day celebration will have something for all the family including comedy, dance, poetry, music and opera. Starring Will Johnson (Waking the Dead), Rudolph Walker (EastEnders), Ray Simpson plus many more! Free entry to the two day Expo. Click here to book for In Celebration of My Sisters

SING-A-LONG-A GREASE

29 May: From the Producers of the smash hit Sing-a-Long-a Sound of Music.  This fully interactive screening of the classic film with on-screen subtitles is “The one that you want”. The host will lead a vocal warm up judge a fancy dress competition and show you how to use your free goody bag it couldn’t be easier or more fun! Click here to book

KEEP UP-TO-DATE WITH THE GOINGS ON AT FAIRFIELD!

Keep in the know with the going on at Fairfield by checking our Blog, joining our Facebook page or following us on Twitter! Click here for more information

BOOKING TICKETS
 

Book tickets by calling our Box Office on 020 8688 9291 or online by clicking here

FOOD AT FAIRFIELD

 Eating at Fairfield has never been better....check out our great offers below (available at selected performances)!

The Brasserie- The Brasserie is open from 10am until late. Serving specialty teas, coffees, fresh pastries, homemade sandwiches, soups and filled jacket potatoes and Chefs daily specials all at reasonable prices!

Matinee & Lunchtime Event Food - Chef's special of the day served with a filter coffee or pot of tea, just £5.75!

Children's Meals - Kids up to 12 years old eat free with any pre-show adult's meal. A colouring book and crayons with each child’s pre-show meal.

Afternoon Tea - Tea for 2, plain scones served with strawberry jam and cream, finger sandwiches with cucumber, egg mayonnaise and smoked salmon - £9.95.

The Champagne Bar - Located on the Sun Lounge, away from the hustle and bustle of the main foyer! Serving a range of champagne cocktails and wines.

The Restaurant - In the heart of our contemporary foyer, our restaurant is open before selected performances. Reservations recommended. Locally sourced, freshly cooked food.

Click here for more information 

FULL MARCH PROGRAMME

Note: A booking fee of £2.25 per ticket applies to all tickets, unless otherwise specified, or if 'NBF' (No Booking Fee) appears alongside the event's ticket prices. Show Card prices are payable by those holding a current Fairfield Show Card. This is one of the benefits of Show Card ownership (available from Fairfield at £18 per annum). Fairfield is a registered charity that now receives little in the way of public funding. Booking fees go directly to Fairfield and help us to keep high quality live entertainment in Croydon.

Tue 28 Feb – Sat 3 March 7.45pm, Thu & Sat Mats 2.30pm

LESS THAN KIND

London 1944. With the war reaching its climax on the Normandy beaches, while at home ‘buzzbombs’ are falling on London, a senior Cabinet Minister in charge of tank production also has domestic problems. He is having an affair with a charming widow whose son, evacuated to Canada for the duration, now returns as a teenager socialist and lambasts the Minister as a lascivious capitalist exploiter. A sparkling comedy of manners and a psycho-sexual drama, Less Than Kind has astounded critics. Starring James Wilby (Maurice, Gosford Park) and Sara Crowe (Calendar Girls, Four Weddings and a Funeral). Tickets are £18 - £25.

Thursday 1 March 6.30pm

FRESHLY FIRED: COMING CLEAN

An exciting opportunity to hear new work written by established playwrights and read by a cast of experienced actors. See how a play is developed and be a part of the process - we will ask for your comments at the end of the reading. Tickets are free but are limited to 30 members of the public for each event. ‘Coming Clean’ is a fast paced comedy peppered with disco diva songs of the 1970’s. It is not a musical per say, but a serious comedy with some very camp music. The play takes place over a three month period beginning in the late Autumn of 1972 and ending in the New Year of 1973 and is set in a down at heel church hall in the Notting Hill Gate area of London.

Thursday 1 March 8pm

CHRIS DEAN’S SYD LAWRENCE ORCHESTRA - CARRY ON SWINGING

Need some relief from today’s economic gloom and doom? Once again, Chris Dean’s Syd Lawrence Orchestra have struck gold bringing you a robustly enjoyable evening of tuneful entertainment. Catch this humdinger of a night, sprightly and joyous but remarkably warm-hearted. These musicians are sure to please long time fans of Big Band music while staking out their own territory. There’s further fun to be had courtesy of mischievous leader Chris and the hits just keep coming. You cannot help but tap your feet and jig along in your seats to the music of Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Billy May, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and many, many more. This perfect mix of magical ingredients is guaranteed to make you smile from the time the curtain goes up and all the way home. Unique, bespoke entertainment – a pure feel good show! Tickets are £20, Concessions £19.

Friday 2 March 8pm

SACREBLEU THE CABARET

London’s best real variety show. Comedy, music, magic, circus, sketches, improv and speciality acts. Tonight’s line-up: EARL OKIN - The Godfather of musical comedy. A truly unique performer who’s been a headline act on the London circuit since 1982 and a smash hit at the Montreal ‘Just For Laughs’ Comedy Festival. PAUL LONGHURST - Magician, comedian, musician, mind reader and illusionist who brilliantly combines all those disciplines in his tricks...just make sure you get your wallet back! Plus THE VERY BEST OF THE NATYS - No less than FIVE of the best acts from the final of the New Act of The Year Awards 2012. Not to be missed! www.sacrebleu.com Tickets are £14.50, Concessions £12.50 (no booking fee).

Saturday 3 March 7.30pm

LONDON MOZART PLAYERS

Conductor: Gérard Korsten, Violin: Tasmin Little. Programme: Mozart: Symphony No. 17 in G major, Roxanna Panufnik: Four World Seasons (London Première), Strauss: Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme. The LMP’s newly appointed Associate Composer, Roxanna Panufnik, introduces us to her most recent work − Four World Seasons. The listener is taken around the world to celebrate each of the seasons in a different place. In the world première of the fourth movement this evening, performed by celebrated violinist Tasmin Little, the last of these locations will be revealed. Along with Mozart’s Symphony No. 17, written when the composer was in Salzburg, and Strauss’ Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme, set in Paris, this concert is a celebration of music from across the world. Tickets are £12 - £31.50 (no booking fee).

Sunday 4 March 7.45pm

REAL DIAMOND

Neil Diamond’s iconic career stretches from 1965 to his world tour in 2011, and who knows how far beyond? With chart and album hits in every decade, Neil is truly a living legend. John Hylton is without doubt Europe’s leading tribute to the great man himself - some suggest he may actually be the best there is. John presents ‘Real Diamond’ - a classic show with Neil Diamond’s greatest hits performed on a rollercoaster of emotion.  A seasoned professional performer for twenty years… and you can tell in two minutes. Together with his 100% live band (you could fairly call them ‘The Magnificent 7’!), these guys play Neil’s music like its supposed to be played… and John Hylton sings it like Neil would want it to be sung. Tickets are £18. Special Offer: Purchase tickets for Garfunkel and Simon on 20 May and get tickets for Real Diamond for only £16! Visit http://www.johnhylton.com/video.htm and take the Diamond Challenge for your chance to receive a concession priced ticket!

Sunday 4 March 8pm

MOTOWN AND PHILADELPHIA ON TOUR

The hits and memories just keep on coming as multi-award winning Roy G. Hemmings and his 15 strong company deliver memoires of a twin era of music that lives on and on. Be prepared to dance In front of your seats at this concert party! A full evening show that spans the hits of The Ojays, The Tramps, Billy Paul, Candi Stanton, MFSB, The Stylistics to mention but a few of those memorable Philly acts together with the sounds of Detroit and old favourites such as The 4 Tops, Supremes, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Boys 2 Men, The Drifters together with educated information on the era between the songs. This is an all action show with the greatest hits of all time you will just love! Tickets are £19.50 and £22.50.

Monday 5 March 7.45pm

THE BACHELORS

The Bachelors were the original Irish boy band of the 1960s. Their string of hits included I Believe, Charmaine, The Stars Will Remember, Ramona and Diane. Their soft Irish harmonies won them fans that have followed them for almost half a century. Although the original Bachelors split up in the 1980s, John Stokes was coaxed by his army of fans to reform the band. Thus today The Bachelors are still entertaining with John being joined by Jonathan Young and Dave Pearson. For a truly authentic evening of sounds of the 60s join The Bachelors as they perform all their greatest hits. Tickets are £16.

Wednesday 7 March 8pm

JAZZ CABARET: DAVID REES-WILLIAMS TRIO

Forget the debate about classics or jazz - even diehards say this is music at the very highest level. Everything’s there - melody, creation, passion, sensitivity, excitement, technique, diverse repertoire, and an infectious ‘feel good’ factor. Jacques Loussier believes Bach could appear at Ronnie Scott’s and David proves it by recreating works of classic masters in a jazz inspired idiom. Reviewers from The Times, The Guardian, HMV, The Independent, Jazzwise, Sunday Times, House & Garden, The Independent on Sunday, The Jazz Rag, Daily Telegraph, BBC Radio, Jon Snow of Channel 4 TV and others are not wrong. Cabaret Jazz Nights in the Arnhem Gallery, great jazz, great pizza, great company. Tickets are £15 or £20.95 including pizza.

Thu 8 – Sat 10 Mar 7.45pm, Schools Perf Fri 9 at 1pm

Hull Truck Theatre Presents…. DNA

Starring James Alexandrou (EastEnders). A compelling thriller by award winning writer Dennis Kelly. A group of teenagers do something bad, really bad, then panic and cover the whole thing up. But when they find that the cover-up unites them and brings harmony to their otherwise fractious lives, where’s the incentive to put things right? This startling new play is fast becoming a contemporary-classic with young audiences and has recently become a core set-text on the GCSE English syllabus. This brand new touring production directed by Anthony Banks features a cutting-edge design and soundtrack and an exciting cast of actors fresh from drama school. A thrilling introduction to live theatre for teenagers and their families. Tickets are £16, Concessions £10, Family £45, Schools £8.50 (£1.50 booking fee per ticket).

Friday 9 March 8pm

THE BOOTLEG BEATLES IN CONCERT

Re-live the sights and sounds of sixties as the world’s premier Beatles band return to Fairfield Halls with their spectacular two hour multi-media stage production featuring all the classic Beatles hits. Using film footage of the period and 'with a little help from' their regular brass and string ensemble the show traces the history of the Fab Four from Liverpool's Cavern Club through Sgt Pepper to The Apple Rooftop in what has now become one of the ‘not to miss’ annual traditions of the seasons calendar.

It's not the Beatles but you simply won't believe it! Tickets are £25.

Saturday 10 March 2.30pm

WARHORSE (CERT 12a)

Directed by Steven Spielberg, 2011. Starring Jeremy Irvine, Emily Watson and David Thewlis. Young Albert enlists to service in WWI after his beloved horse, Joey, is sold to the cavalry. Albert's hopeful journey takes him out of England and across Europe as the war rages on. Tickets are £5, Show Card £4.50 (no booking fee).

Sunday 11 March 7.45pm

C’MON EVERYBODY

Voted number one Rock ‘n’ Roll show by U.K. Rock Magazine. If you love Rock ‘n’ Roll this is a show not to be missed. All the greatest musical stars of the 50s and 60s come amazingly alive in this spectacular, vibrant, action packed, non-stop, live, rockin’ show. Re-live the best loved hits by some of the greatest artistes of the Rock ‘n’ Roll era including Eddie Cochran, Buddy Holly, Brenda Lee, Chuck Berry, Connie Francis, Bill Haley, Duane Eddy Johnny & The Hurricanes and The Champs. Enjoy top class tributes performed from the heart by high quality vocalists and musicians, including the legendary Chris ‘Fender’ Black. Tickets are £17.50.

Sunday 11 March 8pm

THE SOLID SILVER 60s SHOW 2012

Peter Noone, Chris Montez, Brian Hyland with Brian Poole, backed by Vanity Fare

Celebrating 27 years of the UK’s original and premier 60s show! They say that if you remember the 60s you weren’t there! Fill that gap in your memory with The Solid Silver 60s Show and relive the 60s with original artists singing their greatest hits! Now in its 27th year the show features the unforgettable talents of Peter Noone, Chris Montez, Brian Hyland with Brian Poole and all backed by Vanity Fare. Hear the classic hits performed by the original hit makers! Tickets are £27.50.

Tuesday 13 March 1.05pm

LUNCHTIME EVENT: PHILLIP DYSON

International concert pianist Phillip Dyson has been described as simply ‘brilliant’, with a ‘wonderfully dry, very British sense of humour’ and a recent recital in New York City accredited him as nothing less than ‘magnificent’. A world class pianist and great entertainer, performing to ‘sell-out’ audiences around the world. Today, Phillip invites you to another sensational show of piano music classic hits, featuring: Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata, Chopin’s Fantaisie-Impromptu, Debussy’s Claire de Lune, Scott Joplin’s The Entertainer, George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue... and much more! Tickets are £5, Show Card £4.50 (no booking fee).

Tue 13 March – Sat 17 March 7.45pm, Matinees on Thu & Sat 2.30pm

ALL THE FUN OF THE FAIR

TV's newest EastEnder star, David Essex leads the cast of his musical set in a world of an authentic East End funfair. David Essex and Boogie Nights creator Jon Conway invite you to a rollercoaster ride of a musical, underscored by a helter-skelter of David Essex hits such as: Winter’s Tale, Hold Me Close, Gonna Make You a Star, Me and My Girl, Nightclubbing, Silver Dream Machine and Rock On. Inspired by David’s album All the Fun of the Fair, David plays funfair owner Levi Lee, recently widowed and father of a rebellious teenage son, Jack. Like father like son, they’ll take you for a ride. Danger and mysticism lurk in the future, as predicted by the gypsy fortune teller, Rosa, who is in love with Levi. Dodgems and motorbikes, crafty cons and candy floss, fairground horses and fights, along with romance and rock and roll mean you’re sure to go on a rollercoaster of a ride, but beware… all is not always fun at the fair! Tickets are £22.50 - £31.50.

Wed 14 & Thu 15 March 7pm

CROYDON SCHOOLS’ MUSIC ASSOCIATION - ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF MUSIC 2012

Wed 14 March - Infant Festival Choir: Conductor - Helen Bretherick. With musical items from members of the Croydon Music and Arts. Music to include a ‘Celebration of Croydon’. Tickets on Sale: Monday 20 February from the Box Office. Thu 15 March - Junior Festival Choir: Conductor - Claire Slade. With musical items from members of the Croydon Music and Arts. To include music in celebration of the Queens Diamond Jubilee and inspirational songs suitable for the Olympics. Tickets on sale: Tuesday 21 February from the Box Office. Tickets are £8, £9, £10, Children £5.50 (no booking fee).

Friday 16 March 7.30pm

THE OSMONDS FINAL UK TOUR - UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Presented by Osmond Entertainment LLC and Mel Bush Organization. For over five decades The Osmond Brothers have been entertaining sold out crowds throughout the world and 2012 marks the year of their biggest ever UK Tour. The tour will take fans on a journey through their many unforgettable hits - from classics such as One Bad Apple, Down By The Lazy River, Let Me In and Love Me For A Reason to Crazy Horses and Long Haired Lover From Liverpool – the 1972 number one from Jimmy, who has more recently appeared in London’s West End in Grease and Chicago. The Osmonds are unique in their success as a band and as solo performers. They have recorded over 200 albums, selling over 100 million copies with 59 gold and platinum recordings. They have sold out venues worldwide, breaking box office records and received countless awards; most notably in 2003 when they were honoured by the industry, receiving a star on the ‘Hollywood Walk of Fame’. Tickets are £27.50 and £29.50.

Saturday 17 March 7.30pm

NEW QUEEN’S HALL ORCHESTRA - HITCHCOCK & HOLLYWOOD

Conductor: John Farrer, Compère: Tippi Hedren. Tippi Hedren, the last of Alfred Hitchcock’s glamorous blondes, will be on-stage at Fairfield Halls to tell you of her time working with Hollywood’s master of suspense. With clips from some of Hitchcock’s most famous films on Fairfield’s Big-Screen, Miss Hedren will discuss the background to famous Hitchcock films, such as Vertigo, Psycho, Marnie, The Man Who Knew Too Much and North By North West. Alfred Hitchcock left his hometown, East London, to be at the heart of the Film World in Hollywood. With his quirky approach to film-making, he took a deep understanding of music’s role in heightening tension. Even so, The Birds has no music, while Psycho uses nothing but string instruments. With the critically acclaimed New Queen’s Hall Orchestra on stage to play some of Hollywood’s greatest scores this promises to be an exceptional evening for anyone interested in the cinema and fine music- making. John Farrer, a great American conductor, and a devoted fan of the NQHO will guarantee the full Hollywood treatment. Tickets are £12 - £31.50 (no booking fee).

Sunday 18 March 8pm

BJÖRN AGAIN 2012 SPRING PARTY WITH VERY SPECIAL GUESTS STAVROS FLATLEY

An evening at the theatre you'll never forget! Join in all the fun with Rod Stephen’s production - Björn Again 2012 Spring Party with very special guests Stavros Flatley. The show features ABBA’s hits and songs from Mamma Mia together with the legendary voice of host ‘Tony Blackburn’ introducing a selection of past hits and a hilarious performance from Britain’s Got Talent finalists Stavros Flatley. This really will be a night to remember. Recently acknowledged by ABBA’s blonde vocalist Agnetha Fältskog, Rod aims to keep his typically Australian production at the top and continue for as long as people want to hear the much-loved ABBA repertoire performed the way only the Björn Again show does. "It was a great show. I loved the choreography ... it was very true to life.....When do you play your next shows?... Good Luck for the tour" - Agnetha Fältskog (TV3 / TV6 20th Anniversary party Stockholm 2007). Tickets are £18.50.

Sat 17 & Sun 18 March From 12pm

EVERY WOMAN’S LIFESTYLE EXPO

This two day Woman’s Lifestyle Expo will show case all types of international Women’s Lifestyle. Hosted by Janelle Oswald - fashion presenter, Hair & Fashion shows. Health, massage, empowerment area, beauty tips, jewellery, international designers of shoes and handbags, lingerie, makeovers and hair demonstrations plus art, books and special Mothers’ Day presents. Including live entertainment and meet celebrities throughout the two days. Free entry.

Sunday 18 March 7.30pm

IN CELEBRATION OF MY SISTERS

Due to overwhelming popular demand The UK’s largest International Women’s month event is back, now in its 16th year,  hosted by Brenda Emmanus (BBC TV) comedy dance, poetry, music and opera, plus our famous Mother’s day salute to past and present mums. This year the Brother’s will pay tribute to the sisters, Will Johnson (Waking the Dead), Rudolph Walker (EastEnders) Ray Simpson, Curtis Walker, Cruse, Men of Stone, Soul Purpose plus Felicity Ethnic, over 15 artists. Tickets are £19.50, £22.50 and £25.50.

Wed 21 Mar 6pm & Thu 22 Mar 2pm & 7pm

CROYDON SCHOOLS’ DANCE ASSOCIATION - REMEMBER WHEN……

Three programmes of dances from Croydon’s infant, junior and high schools, with the theme of the past and anniversaries. Tickets on sale from Monday 6 February. Tickets are Eves - £8, £10 and £12, Seniors £7 and £9, Children £5. Thursday Matinee - £6, Children, Seniors, Schools and Community Groups - £3 (no booking fee).

Wednesday 21 March 2.30pm

CROYDON STAGERS - MUSIC HALL

Croydon Stagers are back with their ever-popular Music Hall. Come along, join in the fun and sing-along to all your favourite melodies with your own, your very own, local multi-talented artistes! Tickets are £10.

Thursday 22 March 7.45pm

THE BILLY FURY YEARS

Hailed as ‘the best Fury since Fury’, Michael King and his fantastic collection of musicians take you on a journey through the musical career of Britain's best loved rock ‘n’ roller, Billy Fury. An exciting show filled with Billy Fury's greatest hits and more delivered live in true Fury style. This is a night of pure breathtaking Billy Fury entertainment plus the best Fury sound you will ever hear! The whole show is further enhanced by fantastic audio and video effects plus various costume changes depicting the ever changing image and face of the Fury phenomenon. The band also perform several unforgettable British sixties hits throughout the show keeping the audience entertained and enthralled for the entire evening. Tickets are £16.

Friday 23 March 7.30pm

ANDY ABRAHAM’S HISTORY OF THE BIG BANDS

The History of the Big Bands features a 13-piece big band and vocals from the incredible Andy Abraham. Audiences will be transported on a magical musical journey revisiting the very best of the swing era. The History of the Big Bands promises an outstanding evening of high energy, virtuoso musi­cianship and wonderful songs. A fantastic show it’s sure to appeal to every big band fan and more. www.historyofthebigbands.com Tickets are £22.50.

Friday 23 March 2.30pm & 6.30pm

KEN RUSSELL SEASON: MAHLER (CERT 15)

Directed by Ken Russell, 1974. Starring Robert Powell, Georgina Hale and Lee Montague. The film takes place on a single train ride, in which the sickly composer Gustav Mahler and his wife, Alma, confront the reasons behind their faltered marriage and dying love. Each word seems to evoke memories of past, and so the audience witnesses events of Mahler's life that explain somewhat his present state. The movie weaves in and out of dreams, flashbacks, thoughts and reality as Russell poetically describes the man behind the music. Tickets are £5, Show Card £4.50 (no booking fee).

Friday 23 March 8pm

JAZZ CABARET: YURIY GALKIN NONET - NINE OF A KIND

Award-winning composer and bassist Yuriy Galkin has already established himself as one of the most creative jazz musicians of his generation. He has risen to the challenges of creating interesting and fresh textures for a nine-piece orchestra and has developed a unique musical language inspired by many cultures and traditions including jazz, classical and Latin music. In 2008, Galkin formed the Symbiosis Orchestra, now the Yuriy Galkin Nonet, to perform his original compositions and arrangements. The Nonet features the very best of young British talent – Freddie Gavita (trumpet, flugelhorn), Steve Fishwick (trumpet, flugelhorn), Jon Stokes (trombone), George Crowley (tenor sax), Tamar Osborn (baritone and soprano saxes, bass clarinet), John Turville (piano), Dave Hamblett (drums) – and Russian Zhenya Strigalev (alto sax). Cabaret Jazz Nights in the Arnhem Gallery, great jazz, great pizza, great company. Tickets are £15 or £20.95 including pizza.

Saturday 24 March 11am

ARTHUR DAVISON FAMILY CONCERT - THE ADVENTURES OF SINBAD

Conductor: Darrell Davison, Narrator: David Leonard, Trombone: David Whitson, Croydon Symphony Orchestra. A concert of colourful characters such as heroes William Tell, El Cid and The Flying Dutchman and villains Billy the Kid, the Gnome and Kikimora the Spider. This dramatic story is based on the Adventures of Sinbad accompanied by the wonderful music of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade. Top trombonist David Whitson presents his wonderful world of Brass. Tickets are £7.50, Groups of 4 or more £6.50 each (no booking fee).

Sunday 25 March 3pm

AMERICAN SUPERSLAM WRESTLING

The Massive 20 man Royal Rumble returns to the rings of Fairfield for this major action packed afternoon of top American and world stars competing against the best of British for the title of ‘King of the Ring’. Action is guaranteed when the ring will have 20 massive bodies throwing each other over the top rope ready for elimination. Only ONE man can survive the battle. Pick your favourite...shout your support...only one winner... A great afternoon of family fun at fantastic prices including a great family ticket offer that cannot be beaten in value! Tickets are £15 for adults, £10 for children and a family ticket is available for £45 (no booking fee).

Sunday 25 March 7.45pm

THE BOOTLEG SIXTIES

The Bootleg Sixties are back on tour again with their fantastic ‘sight and sound’ show, and having rocked the Ashcroft Theatre to it’s very foundations on the last two visits, will be looking to go one better next time! There’ll be some new songs and new images, but it’ll be the same brilliant evening’s entertainment. Without doubt this is the best show of it’s kind working in the UK today, and definitely not to be missed….if you only see one Sixties show in 2012, make it The Bootleg Sixties! Tickets are £17.50.

Tuesday 27 March 7.30pm

VERDI’S LA TRAVIATA

Derek Block & Blackburn International proudly presents an Ellen Kent Production Featuring the internationally acclaimed Ukrainian National Opera of Kharkiv with international soloists, a highly-praised chorus and full orchestra. Starring the International sopranos Rosa Lee Thomas and Elena Dee* A tragic tale of searing passion and memorable music, La Traviata is Verdi’s outstanding interpretation of one of the most popular love stories of the 19^th century, La dame aux Camelias. Based on a true story, it tells of the passionate consumptive Violetta. There are many echoes of Verdi’s own life in Traviata and he threw himself into the music. The highlights include the Brindisi, the best known drinking song in opera, the duet Un Di Felice and Violetta’s haunting aria Addio Del Passato. This magnificent production boasts sumptuous sets and costumes. This production will be sung in Italian with English surtitles. *Cast subject to change. Tickets are £24, £30 and £35, Concessions £3 off ticket prices.

Wednesday 28 March 7pm

CROYDON MUSIC & ARTS SHOWCASE 2012

In Olympic year, 400 talented young Croydon musicians will be celebrating music from around the world, especially music representing the different communities in Croydon. Tickets go on sale 1 February. Tickets are £7 and £9, Concessions £6 and £4 (no booking fee).

Thursday 29 March 7.30pm

SUTTON DISTRICT & MUSIC ASSOCIATION FESTIVAL CONCERT – 2012

An annual concert organised by the Sutton and District Music Association. The 2012 concert has fourteen primary schools taking part with a combined choir and orchestra of over 500 children. The association of Sutton Primary School teachers was formed over eighty years ago, it is dedicated helping children learn more about music and dance and to provide opportunities for children to come together and perform. Tickets on sale from Monday 5 March. Tickets are £9 (no booking fee).

Thursday 29 March 7.30pm

SWINGING AT THE COTTON CLUB

Featuring The Jiving Lindy Hoppers & Harry Strutters Hot Rhythm Orchestra

Swinging at The Cotton Club is the action-packed show celebrating the music, dance, and songs of the Cotton Club – New York City’s famous nightclub of the 1920s and ‘30s. Performances by Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway, Lena Horne and Fats Waller would have had the club swinging, whilst dancers such as Bo jangles Robinson and the Nicholas Brothers lit-up the stage with their breathtaking routines. In this show, the exciting music and dance routines are recreated by the fabulous Jiving Lindy Hoppers, the world’s premier jazz dance company and the exciting Harry Strutters Hot rhythm Orchestra - who together communicate the exuberance of the music and dance of the Cotton Club! Tickets are £20, Concessions £18.

Thursday 29 March 6.30pm

FRESHLY FIRED: THE MAN WHO ARGUED HIMSELF TO DEATH

An exciting opportunity to hear new work written by established playwrights and read by a cast of experienced actors. See how a play is developed and be a part of the process - we will ask for your comments at the end of the reading. Tickets are free but are limited to 30 members of the public for each event. Athens. 399 BC. Socrates is on trial for his life. If you want a lesson in how to win over a jury…. look away now. Socrates loved a good argument - above eating, drinking, going to the theatre and, by all accounts, way above washing.  If he were around now, he would happily present a five-minute slot after every news bulletin, to point out the twisted logic and blizzard of nonsense spouted by politicians, businessmen and Sir Alex Ferguson. Let him question the questioners too - “Come on, Mr Paxman, why did you ask that, hm?” Socrates lived for argument.  Then, at the age of seventy, he was brought before a court, to argue for his life. Parts of this play are certainly true, based on surviving accounts of the trial; other parts are entirely made up. Written by Colin Swash who also writes for Have I Got News for You and Mock the Week.

Fri 30 Mar – Sun 1 Apr 4pm, Extra Perf on Sat 31 Mar at 10am & 1pm

PEPPA PIG’S TREASURE HUNT

Ahoy there me Hearties! Peppa Pig and her friends are going on a treasure hunt and need your help! Peppa, George and Danny Dog are up to fun and games on a day out on Granddad Dog's boat. Help them, with Pedro Pony, Polly Parrot and Zoe Zebra to follow the clues and find their treasure as they all enjoy a day of adventure. Following the incredible sell-out success of Peppa Pig’s Party, Peppa is back with a brand new show featuring true to life puppets, perfect sing-along songs and a new story that will charm and delight all her fans. Full sail! Ahoy! Arrrrr! Tickets are £12.50 and £14.50 for adults, £10.50 and £12.50 for children and a family ticket is available for £50 (£1.50 booking fee per ticket).

Friday 30 March 2.30pm & 6.30pm

KEN RUSSELL SEASON: SAVAGE MESSIAH

Directed by Ken Russell, 1972. Starring Dorothy Tutin, Scott Antony and Helen Mirren. Biographical film of the life of French sculptor Henri Gaudier-Brzeska. Tickets are £5, Show Card £4.50 (no booking fee).

 Saturday 31 March 7.30pm

LONDON MOZART PLAYERS

Conductor: Hilary Davan Wetton, Piano: Cordelia Williams. Programme: Mozart: Symphony No. 38 ‘Prague’, Mendelssohn: Piano Concerto No. 1 in G minor, Honegger: Pastorale D’Été. Dvorák: Czech Suite in D major Op 39. Associate Conductor of the LMP, Hilary Davan Wetton, returns to Fairfield Halls to direct the orchestra through a delicious programme of musical treats. The concert opens with Mozart’s ‘Prague’ symphony, before moving onto Mendelssohn’s demanding Piano Concerto No. 1, performed by the Piano Winner of the 2006 BBC Young Musician of the Year competition, Cordelia Williams. The second half of the evening begins with Honegger’s Pastoral D’Été, which offers the listener a musical impression of the Swiss Alps, before moving into the heart of Bohemia for Dvorák’s rousing Czech Suite. Tickets are £12 - £31.50 (no booking fee).

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