Whether you enjoy cheerful musical numbers or yearn for the exploration of enthralling characters and plots, you can easily satisfy these pleasures at one of the top provincial theatres: Leicester's Curve Theatre. Here are Label's 'must see' productions before the Christmas holidays.
The Lovesong of Alfred J Hitchcock
What better way to begin first semester than with a raw insight into the mind of one of the world's most 'fascinating cultural icons' (Curve.com) of the 20th Century, Filmmaker Alfred J Hitchcock.
Between September 27 and October 5, New Perspectives translates David Rudkin's award winning radio play, The Lovesong of Alfred J Hitchcock, for Curve's stage. Audiences will gain an in-depth study of the 'Master of Suspense' during his influential years, rewarding us with the legendary Psycho, among other films..
Rudkin's creation will leave you mesmerised as you realise the extent to which an individual can go to follow his visions and share them with the world. It'll be a challenging, yet fascinating, play to witness under the direction of Jack McNamara.
Diwali Hangama
If you desire something a little more light hearted, fuelled with fun, music, dance and laughter, I urge you to celebrate Diwali with Curve and Sabras (the Midlands' largest Asian station). Diwali Hangama is back by popular demand for one night only, November 2.
Last year this night was hugely popular, when hosts Raj Baddhan and Kash Kumar introduced a variety of dynamic acts, ranging from Britain's Got Talent finalists Signature to local dance group Nupur Arts. This year, Baddhan and Kumar will be joined by a star filled line-up yet to be announced. Tickets will sell fast so buy them soon!
Chicago
Diwali Hangama won't be the only production to attract an army of ardent supporters. My favourite musical of all, after a fifteen year reign on the West End, is set to take Leicester by storm.
For the first time, Chicago enters Curve's stage from the 29 November 2013 – 11 January 2014. Directed by Curve's artistic director, Paul Kerryson, you can expect a whirlwind of sex, murder, rivalry, betrayal, greed and lust.
For those of you who haven't seen the show, the musical takes place in the very fashionable 1920s, a time where criminals could become celebrities for their acts in pursuit of passion. Fame-seeking Roxie Hart and nightclub success Velma Kelly, battle for the spotlight as they both spend time behind bars for their crimes.
Billy Flynn, a slick lawyer, notorious for turning criminals into heroes, also becomes a part of Hart and Kelly's feud over fame. Originally created by John Kander, Bob Fosse and Fred Ebb, Chicago is filled with raunchy dancing and well known musical numbers including All That Jazz and Razzle Dazzle Them. Curve has a fantastic reputation for exhibiting brilliant Christmas musicals, with the likes of Hello Dolly, 42nd Street and Gypsy, so this is not one to miss, I certainly won't.
See www.curveonline.co.uk for ticket information.
