Spring Into 2018 With An All-Star Line Up At Birmingham Hippodrome

Birmingham Hippodrome has today released further details of several new unforgettable shows, festivals and free events taking place across its stages and surrounding streets into 2018.

The newly announced Spring season offers audiences a fantastic choice of world-class entertainment including the biggest names in West End musicals, cutting-edge contemporary dance, a treasure trove of family favourites, world-class ballet and opera and a high-flying pantomime adventure for the whole family.

Newly announced productions include spectacular Bollywood musical TAJ EXPRESS, Tim Firth and Gary Barlow's sell-out comedy CALENDAR GIRLS, leading contemporary dance company BALLET BRITISH COLUMBIA and the return of Matt Slack in the magical pantomime spectacular, PETER PAN.

Fiona Allan, Artistic Director and Chief Executive of Birmingham Hippodrome said:

"There is something about the British winter that makes me seek out a nice fireplace to sit by, with a cup of something warming, to share stories with friends and family. And for me, experiencing storytelling on a grand scale, through a live performance, is a wonderful thing."

"In 2018, we're bringing you many timeless tales, old and new. From Birmingham Royal Ballet's Sleeping Beauty (including a half-term relaxed performance); to Matthew Bourne's Cinderella brilliantly rec-conceived as a war-time romance; to Peter Pan, the boy who never grew up, our year-end pantomime."

"We're also co-producing a new Hansel & Gretel with METRO-BOULOT-DODO and Open Theatre Company for our Patrick Studio. 2018 also marks 100 years since the 'Representation of the People Act' enabling most UK women to vote, so it is perhaps apt too that many of the stories you'll see on our stage this year feature strong female characters. From Elphaba and Glinda in Wicked, to Puccini's tragic Tosca, to everyone's favourite schoolgirl Matilda. We also have stories of real women who had huge impact on the world around them - Carole King's story unfolds in a return week of Beautiful, and Evita, Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical which immortalised Eva Peron. And Ballet British Columbia return with a programme of three breath-taking modern dance pieces, all by internationally acclaimed female choreographers."

"It's not just about the girls though. We are also very excited to stage some exciting new musicals, including The Band, featuring music by Take That; a new adaptation of the classic 1980s film An Officer and a Gentleman; and Titanic, a musical based on stories of real people on board the fated ship as the final hours unfold. For those seeking some humour, The Play That Goes Wrong will tickle your funny bone, or giggle through our bumper comedy week."

"Looking forward, we are putting plans in place for a complete renovation of our bars and foyers, enabling much more daytime programming of free and low cost activity for children and families. You'll start to see some of this work happening during the year. And given 2019 is the 120th Anniversary of the Hippodrome, we're launching our 1899 Club, seeking £10-a-month donors to help preserve our historic auditorium, ensure everyone is welcome, and to enable new stories to be told for future generations."

BOOKING INFORMATION:

Ticket Sales, Gift Vouchers & Memberships: 0844 338 5000 Select your own seat online: birminghamhippodrome.com Groups & Schools Hotline: 0844 338 7000 Restaurant reservations: 0844 338 9000

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