Perry good show
We all love a bit of Grayson Perry – and a landmark exhibition at Turner Contemporary called Provincial Punk gives us an insight into this most colourful of artists. The exhibition explores Perry’s uniquely subversive practice, from a young artist forging his own artistic language in 1980s Britain to his status today as one of the most prominent and incisive commentators on contemporary society and culture. More than 50 works from 1981 until 2014 will be presented, including ceramics, tapestries, drawings, prints and films. Provincial Punk includes previously unseen collaged and watercolour painted sketchbooks from the 1980s that mix confessional diary, sexual fantasy and political critique. These are shown alongside the artist’s rarely seen super-8 films, including Bungalow Depression (1984) and The Poor Girl (1985), set against a backdrop of Thatcherite Britain. A number of recent tapestries are showcased, such as The Walthamstow Tapestry (2009), which depicts a journey from birth to death told through consumer brands, alongside etchings including Map of an Englishman (2004) and Print for a Politician (2005). More information at: www.turnercontemporary.org.
IMAGE: Grayson Perry, Sex and Drugs and Earthenware, 1995, glazed ceramic, 54 x 24.5 cm, 21.28 x 9.65 inches. Courtesy the Artist and Victoria Miro, London © Grayson Perry
One for little ones
Northern Ballet has announced its new ballet for children, Tortoise & the Hare, which will have its world première in Leeds this October followed by an extensive UK tour in spring 2016. It’s the latest in their series of Short Ballets for Small People. This adorable and heart-warming production will last approximately 40 minutes, retelling the much-loved Aesop’s fable about a Tortoise who, tired of being teased for his slowness, challenges a speedy Hare to a race. Northern Ballet has recently been awarded a Strategic Touring Grant from Arts Council England to enable the Company to continue to create and tour its ballets for children for the next three years. All good stuff. More details at: theatreleeds.com
Book now for this iconic show
For students of drama and performing arts, an icon of the craft is Judy Garland. A new play with showbiz royalty backing, hits our stages later this year. The Songbook of Judy Garland is choreographed by Arlene Philips and stars Lorna Luft, Judy’s daughter and half sister of Liza Minnelli. And that’s just for starters. Ray Quinn is the leading man alongside Louise Dearman of Wicked fame. The show, which has the blessing of The Judy Garland Estate, features film clips, interviews and classic songs from hit movies including A Star is Born, Meet Me in St. Louis, Easter Parade and The Wizard of Oz. For full tour details visit: www.atgtickets.com
Hard-knock life?
You just cannot beat a bit of Annie. And the Plymouth Theatre Royal has a great production at the beginning of the next academic year starring none other than Craig Revel Horwood in the role of Miss Hannigan. Classic! It’s a new production but packed full of all your favourite Annie numbers. Tickets can be booked online at www.theatreroyal.com or by calling the Theatre Royal Plymouth Box Office on 01752 267222.
IMAGE: © Hugo Glendinning
First mention of the C word
So sorry about this but I do have to mention the C word. And it’s only April! If you’re planning Christmas treats for your dear students, I have news from the world of theatre. For our friends in London – and those within rail travel distance – the Dominion Theatre has announced it is to reprise Elf, the smash-hit musical for its festive offering. Based on the hit film starring Will Ferrell, this is sure to bring in the crowds. In Bristol, city folk are in for a treat with Sleeping Beauty, directed by the marvellous Sally Cookson. This much-loved retelling of the fairy tale features original live music from Benji Bower.