The Watermill Theatre - Spring/Summer Season 2020
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The Watermill Theatre
Spring/Summer Season 2020
The Watermill Theatre & Restaurant
Bagnor, Newbury, Berkshire RG20 8AE
Administration 01635 45834
Email admin@watermill.org.uk
watermill.org.uk
BOX OFFICE 01635 46044
© The Watermill Theatre, 2019. All details in this brochure were
correct at the time of going to press. The Watermill Theatre Ltd.
reserves the right to make alterations where necessary.
Friends Priority Booking opens Friday 18 October at 10am
General Booking opens Monday 28 October at 10am Contents
A very warm welcome to Wednesday 29 January to Saturday 15 February
One Million Tiny Plays About Britain Page 4
our new 2020 season!
Wednesday 19 February to Saturday 7 March
This year, two Our Senior Youth Theatre will bring the A Midsummer Night’s Dream Page 6
Watermill epic and heartfelt Goodnight Mister Tom
productions to life, based on the much-loved novel
make a very by Michelle Magorian. Following this Thursday 12 March to Saturday 4 April
welcome return. we present Camp Albion, a beautifully The Wicker Husband Page 8
Originally nuanced and fascinating new play by
written for Danielle Pearson, our Playwright in
The Guardian, Residence. It explores the gripping Friday 17 April to Saturday 23 May
Craig Taylor’s local story of the effects of the famous HAMLET
Hamlet Page 10
One Million Newbury bypass.
Tiny Plays Tuesday 26 May to Saturday 6 June
We’ve got Sunday Sessions from The
Rural Tour
About Britain is a kaleidoscopic series of CAMP ALBION
Boulevards and The Mistakable Sound
By Danielle Pearson
Tuesday 26 May to Saturday 6 June
snapshots into people’s lives and is back
after a run in London. A Midsummer Night’s of Ed MacArthur plus children’s theatre
I went to the woods because I
wished to live deliberately…
Camp Albion
Newbury, 1996. Nine miles of ancient
woodland under threat, and the local
community bitterly divided over the
Page 12
CAMP ALBION
proposed route of the new bypass. When
Cassie returns home for the university
holidays, she meets Dylan, a beguiling
road protester who draws her into a world
Dream also returns following a national company Really Big Pants return with their
of rickety treehouses, lentil stew, druidic
rituals and stoic resistance. But her mother
has other ideas, and as battle lines are
drawn, Cassie must face the personal cost of
activism.
In a time before smartphones, Twitter, Greta
Thunberg and Extinction Rebellion, the
‘Third Battle of Newbury’ was one of the
latest production Wonky. We’re pleased
definitive environmental campaigns of the
tour and London run at Wilton’s Music Hall.
1990s. A new play with music, Camp Albion
explores the heroism, humour and heated Tickets
debate of this extraordinary moment in the All performances: £22 and £18.
town’s history.
See pages 37-39 for Performance Diary.
Camp Albion is also touring to village halls,
rural venues and arts centres. For a list of watermill.org.uk
venues visit watermill.org.uk BOX OFFICE 01635 46044
It combines soul music with Shakespeare’s to launch another programme of Take Part Thursday 11 June to Saturday 18 July
12 13
dreamiest of plays and it’ll be a joy to opportunities including our brand new Our Man in Havana Page 14
present on the atmospheric Watermill stage. Masterclasses.
Our talented Watermill Ensemble will It’s a hugely exciting time at The Watermill Wednesday 8 April to Saturday 11 April
also create a brand new production with so much happening here and Senior Youth Theatre
of Shakespeare’s Hamlet this spring. further afield. Last year alone saw eight Goodnight Mister Tom Page 16
Audiences can expect to enjoy a radical productions transfer to London or go on a
and innovative version of the play, which national tour. Thanks as always to everyone More at The Watermill Page 18
seems to find new resonance in every era. who makes it all possible. Restaurant and Bar Page 20
Take Part Page 22
We’re delighted to announce the world We look forward to welcoming you to Accessible Theatre Page 26
premieres of two new musicals: The Wicker The Watermill soon. Backstage Tours Page 27
Husband based on a short story by Ursula Supporting Your Theatre Page 28
Wills-Jones and Our Man in Havana, based Paul Hart Watermill Friends Page 30
on Graham Greene’s spy novel. Artistic and Executive Director Your Visit Page 32
How to Book Page 34
How to Find Us Page 35
Performance Diary Page 37
Front cover: Kiss Me, Kate.
The Watermill is a registered charity no. 261430 and receives core funding from: Please recycle this brochure.
2 3
Wednesday 29 January to Saturday 15 February
The Watermill Theatre in assocciation with Jermyn Street Theatre
presents
by Craig Taylor
‘Well, answer your own question. Directed by Laura Keefe
I did 1,800 miles in the caravan This production contains some strong
and drank three gallons of cider. language.
So I’ll ask you whether or not it
was a good weekend.’
A couple peer into an estate agent’s
window; two sports fans have a heart-to-
heart in the loo; a daughter has questions
about her mother’s love life; and as a
father helps his son tie his football boots,
he realises they are growing apart. If you
keep your eyes and ears open, there are a
million tiny plays happening every day.
Overheard conversations from across the Accessible Performance
country form Craig Taylor’s humorous Saturday 15 February at 12noon.
and poignant look at modern Britain.
Laugh-out-loud funny, and sometimes Saturday 15 February at 1.30pm.
heartbreakingly moving, these miniature
insights into other people’s lives reveal Tickets
the triumphs, disasters, horrors and joys Monday to Thursday evenings and
of life in the twenty-first century. Thursday and Saturday matinées:
£31, £28, £20.
Originally published in The Guardian, Friday and Saturday evenings:
this collage of scenes now form a hugely £33, £30, £22.
entertaining show. Following its premiere
at The Watermill in 2016 and a hotly First Week Special
anticipated London transfer, One Million On the first Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
Tiny Plays About Britain returns. and Saturday, seats are £22 & £18 (no
other discounts).
Praise for One Million Tiny Plays About Britain
‘Touching, hilarious, upsetting, See pages 37-39 for Performance Diary.
thought-provoking, pithy’ The Observer
watermill.org.uk
‘A life-affirming delight’ WhatsOnStage BOX OFFICE 01635 46044
4 5
Wednesday 19 February to Saturday 7 March
The Watermill Ensemble presents
By William Shakespeare
Following huge acclaim from audiences Directed by Paul Hart
across the country, The Watermill Designed by Katie Lias
Ensemble’s magical production of Movement by Tom Jackson Greaves
A Midsummer Night’s Dream returns for a Lighting designed by Tom White
limited run at the end of a UK wide tour. Sound designed by David Gregory
Musical direction by Joey Hickman
Enter a world of dreams and desire in this
Arrangements and additional music by
soulful, spell-binding comedy that combines
Joey Hickman and the Company
wit and romance with a unique approach
to Shakespeare. Fizzing with magic and Associate Director Robert Kirby
a large dose of chaos in an enchanted Associate Movement Director Anjali Mehra
Victorian music hall; secrets, love and Associate Sound Designer Richard Bell
mistaken identities collide. Fusing actor-
musicianship with one of Shakespeare’s
greatest comedies, The Watermill Ensemble
cast their spell, performing the intoxicating
soulful sounds of Nina Simone and Billie Tickets
Holiday live on stage. Monday to Thursday evenings and
The Watermill Ensemble create new Thursday and Saturday matinées:
versions of Shakespeare’s plays that are £31, £28, £20.
Pictures from the original 2018 Watermill production
fresh, contemporary and bold. Since Friday and Saturday evenings:
forming in 2017, they have toured to £33, £30, £22.
thousands of people nationally and
internationally and now, direct from a run in First Week Special
London, the company return home. On the first Wednesday, Thursday,
Friday & Saturday, seats are
Praise for A Midsummer Night’s Dream £22 & £18 (no other discounts).
★★★★★ ‘Full of music, laughter, heart,
& soul. Dazzling’ Gyles Brandreth See pages 37-39 for Performance Diary.
★★★★ ‘Fizzing with charm and humour’ watermill.org.uk
The Stage BOX OFFICE 01635 46044
6 7
Thursday 12 March to Saturday 4 April
Book by Rhys Jennings
Music and lyrics by Darren Clark
Based on an original short story by Ursula Wills-Jones
‘Once upon a withy on the edge of Directed by Charlotte Westenra
a deep damp swamp, nestled in the Designed by Anna Kelsey
Musical direction by Pat Moran
arms of a winding river, stood a
pretty little town…’ This production contains some strong
language. Age guidance 10+.
A folk-inspired new musical, The Wicker
Husband tells the timeless tale of the
outsider.
In a superficial world, where beauty is only
skin-deep, meet the so-called ‘Ugly Girl’.
Accessible Performance
Ostracised by the shallow townsfolk because
she doesn’t fit in, the Ugly Girl becomes the Saturday 28 March at 1pm.
envy of her neighbours when the mysterious Saturday 28 March at 2.30pm.
Old Basketmaker makes her a strong and
loving husband woven from living wicker. As Tickets
bitter rivalry and jealousy threaten to tear the Monday to Thursday evenings and
community apart, the townsfolk embark on a Thursday and Saturday matinées:
cruel and destructive plan. Will the Ugly Girl’s £31, £28, £20.
happiness be ruined forever? Friday and Saturday evenings:
£33, £30, £22.
A captivating and powerful new musical,
The Wicker Husband will have its world
First Week Special
premiere at The Watermill. It was the
On the first Thursday, Friday & Saturday,
winner of the inaugural MTI Stiles + Drewe
seats are £22 & £18 (no other discounts).
Mentorship Award in 2016 celebrating new
British musical theatre writers and was See pages 37-39 for Performance Diary.
included in the National Alliance for Musical
Theatre’s 30th Annual Festival of New watermill.org.uk
Musicals in New York. BOX OFFICE 01635 46044
8 9
Friday 17 April to Saturday 23 May
The Watermill Ensemble presents
HAMLET Principal Sponsor
By William Shakespeare
Directed by Paul Hart and Abigail Pickard Price
Designed by Katie Lias
‘Frailty, thy name is woman…’ Accessible Performances
In a bold, innovative female-led Tuesday 12 May at 7.30pm
Saturday 16 May at 2.30pm.
HAMLET
production, The Watermill Ensemble
Integrated performances,
breathe new life into Shakespeare’s
see page 26 for details.
timeless tragedy.
Saturday 23 May at 12noon.
The King is dead. Absorbed with grief,
Hamlet sees a ghostly figure who speaks Saturday 23 May at 1.30pm.
of treachery and insists upon revenge.
Relaxed Performance
Hamlet’s mother Gertrude has hastily
BY WIL LIAM SHAKESPEARE remarried, Ophelia is rebelling, and
the new king Claudius is controlling
Thursday 21 May at 2.30pm.
Tickets £22 & £18 (no other discounts).
proceedings from the shadows. As To book seats in the best position for
tensions mount and Hamlet’s personal access performances, call 01635 46044 or
turmoil increasingly conflicts with public email boxoffice@watermill.org.uk
duty, the lines between order and chaos
in Elsinore begin to blur. Tickets
Monday to Thursday evenings and
Underscored with live music played Thursday and Saturday matinées:
Image: Pablo González-Trejo, Brent www.pablogt.com
by the cast, The Watermill’s resident £31, £28, £20.
company apply their daring, collaborative Friday and Saturday evenings:
style to Shakespeare’s most enduring £33, £30, £22.
play, exploring contemporary themes
of identity and authority from multiple First Week Special
points of view. On the first Friday & Saturday, seats are
£22 & £18 (no other discounts).
See pages 37-39 for Performance Diary.
watermill.org.uk
BOX OFFICE 01635 46044
10 11
Tuesday 26 May to Saturday 6 June
CAMP ALBION
By Danielle Pearson
‘I went to the woods because Directed by Georgie Staight
I wished to live deliberately…’ Designed by Isobel Nicolson
Newbury, 1996. Nine miles of ancient Camp Albion is also touring to village
woodland under threat, and the local halls, rural venues and arts centres.
community bitterly divided over the For a list of venues visit watermill.org.uk
proposed route of the new bypass. When
Cassie returns home for the university This production contains strong language.
holidays, she meets Dylan, a beguiling road
protester who draws her into a world of
rickety treehouses, lentil stew, druidic rituals New
ng
and stoic resistance. But her mother has Writi
other ideas, and as battle lines are drawn,
Cassie must face the personal cost
CAMP ALBION
of activism.
In a time before smartphones, Twitter, Greta
Thunberg and Extinction Rebellion, the
‘Third Battle of Newbury’ was one of the
definitive environmental campaigns of the
1990s. A new play with music, Camp Albion
explores the heroism, humour and heated
debate of this extraordinary moment in the
town’s history.
Tickets
All performances: £22 and £18.
See pages 37-39 for Performance Diary.
watermill.org.uk
BOX OFFICE 01635 46044
12 13
Graham Greene’s Thursday 11 June to Saturday 18 July
World e
Prem
ier
Our Man in Graham Greene’s
Havana Our Man in
Havana
a new musical version by Ben Morales Frost and Richard Hough
Principal Sponsor
‘Half the civilian population is
cowering in fear, the other half is
dancing in the streets. But not you.
You’re different... you’re English’
It’s 1958 and Havana is on the brink of
revolution. All day and night, the streets
are filled with dancing and the shadows
are filled with criminals. In the midst of
the warm tropical air, an English vacuum
cleaner salesman lives a quiet life running Accessible Performance
a modest business, raising his teenage Saturday 11 July at 1pm.
daughter Milly and collecting miniature
whisky bottles. Saturday 11 July at 2.30pm.
Just as Milly’s love of shopping reaches new Tickets
heights, James Wormold receives an offer Monday to Thursday evenings and
from the British Secret Intelligence Service Thursday and Saturday matinées:
that is too good to refuse. What Wormold £31, £28, £20.
lacks in sleuthing experience, he makes up Friday and Saturday evenings:
for with imagination. Nothing stays quiet for £33, £30, £22.
long in Havana and his life is soon turned
upside down when the fictional events of First Week Special
his intelligence reports start to come true! On the first Thursday, Friday & Saturday,
seats are £22 & £18 (no other discounts).
A roller coaster comedy full of colourful
characters and uplifting Cuban inspired See pages 37-39 for Performance Diary.
songs, this new musical is based on Graham
Greene’s iconic novel that cleverly satirises watermill.org.uk
the fine line between truth and lies. BOX OFFICE 01635 46044
14
12 15
The Watermill Senior Youth Theatre Wednesday 8 April to
presents Saturday 11 April
The Watermill Senior
Youth Theatre presents
Goodnight
Mister Tom
Directed by Heidi Bird
Designed by Zoë Brennan
With Britain at war and an attack on
London more likely every day, young Saturday 2 May at 11am
William Beech is sent away from the
Adapted by David Wood dangerous smog-filled capital to live
with elderly Tom Oakley in the safety of
Really Big Pants
Theatre Company presents
From the novel by the idyllic English countryside.
Michelle Magorian Haunted by troubles from their past,
William and Tom soon find they have a
Wonky
lot in common and form a remarkable
friendship that helps them both look by Joe Bromley and Willow Nash
to the future. But just as life is starting
to make sense for these two lost souls,
Really Big Pants are back and
William’s new world is torn apart by a cooking up a storm with their
letter from home. new show!
The Senior Youth Theatre tell this Can you help Olive and Messy Jesse
uplifting story full of unexpected twists save the day as they encounter top chef
and turns that show how the most Monsieur Nincompoop, cool rapper
powerful friendships can be found in the Rapper Scool Yo, and the enigmatic pop
most unlikely of places. star Solar Pa’nelle - as Olive’s so-called
best friend Trixie tries to thwart them at
This amateur production of Goodnight every turn?
Mister Tom is presented by special
arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH LTD. There’s cooking! There’s dancing! There’s
a Concord Theatricals Company. rapping! Not all at the same time.
Tickets A fun 55 minute family show for children
£14 and £13, concessions £7 and £6.50. age 7+
See pages 37-39 for Performance Diary.
The Sackler Trust, Principal Supporter
of The Senior Youth Theatre Tickets £8 and £7.
watermill.org.uk watermill.org.uk
BOX OFFICE 01635 46044 BOX OFFICE 01635 46044
16 17
Sunday Sessions
Sunday 5 July at 3pm
DugOut Theatre presents
The Mistakable
Sound of
Ed MacArthur
Join award-winning Ed MacArthur in this
madcap, multi-instrumental, one-man
musical comedy.
As heard on BBC Radio 4, BBC Radio
Scotland and the Nicholas Parsons show,
he’s the star of hit shows Murder For Two
(★★★★ The Telegraph), Ed MacArthur:
Humoresque (★★★★ Broadway Baby),
Inheritance Blues (★★★★ The Scotsman),
Swansong (★★★★ The Stage) and Stack
(★★★★ Fest).
Sunday 22 March at 3pm
The Mistakable Sound of Ed MacArthur will
delight audiences with its razor-sharp wit
and stunning musicianship.
Join us for a hilarious hour of piano, guitar,
accordion, ukulele and more from this
charismatic, multi-talented performer.
‘MacArthur, straight-backed and deadpan,
has talent in spades’ Dominic Cavendish,
The Telegraph
The Boulevards are a 1950s rock and roll The band features a line-up of some of ‘MacArthur has natural charm and
band performing the greatest hits from the UK’s finest rock and roll musicians, considerable skill’ ★★★★
the golden era of music. comprising a wealth of television and Lyn Gardner, The Guardian
West End theatre experience. They have
From Elvis Presley to Chuck Berry; Cliff
performed in productions and shows such
Richard to Little Richard; Jerry Lee Lewis to
as Dreamboats & Petticoats, The Buddy
The Everly Brothers, The Boulevards deliver
Holly Story, Sister Act, The X Factor and All
an authentic, uncompromised and electric
Together Now.
performance of the greatest feel-good
music of all time.
Tickets £22 and £18. Tickets £22 and £18.
watermill.org.uk watermill.org.uk
BOX OFFICE 01635 46044 BOX OFFICE 01635 46044
18 19Restaurant
and Bar
Before the show
Choose from a mouth-watering buffet
selection of delicious salads and cold
meats, available as either a starter or main
course. We also serve hot main courses
and desserts. Each course is individually
priced so you can choose to have one,
two or three. The restaurant serves meals
from 12.30pm on matinée days and from
5.30pm Monday to Saturday evenings.
In the bar
The bar serves a wide selection of wines
from around the world, locally brewed
beers and soft drinks before, during and
after the show.
Chips & dips and sharing platters
are available up to 30 minutes before
the show and during the interval
(please preorder before the show). Children’s Menu
Choose from a selection of three main Our restaurant is very popular
Please note, reusable plastic cups so please book in advance with
will be provided to take drinks into courses, followed by ice cream. Available
at lunch time on matinée days and before the box office on 01635 46044
most areas of the auditorium. or online at watermill.org.uk
the show in the evenings. To see the menu,
visit watermill.org.uk/childrens_menu
After the show
Sharing platters are available to
enjoy after the performance. Please Private Hire
preorder your platter before the show.
Our beautiful venue is available for
Cream teas are available after matinée you to hire for weddings, parties,
performances. Please preorder before meetings, seminars and other events.
the show. The restaurant, bar, gardens and
conservatory are available for evening
Dine after the show on Friday and hire on Sundays and daytime events may
Saturday evenings. Choose from one, be held every day except Thursdays and
two or three courses from our menu. Saturdays. A variety of menus can be
Please collect a menu from the bar before provided including hog roast, barbeque
the show to make your selection. and buffet. For further information about
Private Hire, please call 01635 570920 or
email restaurant@watermill.org.uk
20 21Take Part - Holiday Courses
Young People under 12 Young People 12 to 18
Create, rehearse and share an original Story Adventures Masterclasses More Opportunities
performance. A great way to make new Join us for a sensory adventure exploring Join us during the school holidays to to Take Part
friends and develop your skills with a a story or theme. work with leading theatre professionals The Watermill Theatre offers many
professional from The Watermill.
10.30am - 11.15am: under 5s to develop and learn new skills. All opportunities for young people of all
abilities are welcome. ages to take part. We have regular youth
11.30am - 12.15pm: a session especially
Musical Theatre Day Ages: 12 - 18 (9am - 4.30pm, flexible drop theatre groups who meet throughout
designed for young people with a disability
Monday 17 February off available from 8.30am) the week. From sessions for under 5s
Price £5 per child and their families to aspiring young
Ages: 7 - 11 Join
o Writing and Performing professionals, including specialist groups
(9am - 4.30pm, flexible us for tw
o m b ine A Midsummer Night’s Dream Songs for Musical Theatre for those who are D/deaf, have autism, or
drop off available days! C
sical have complications in life.
from 8.30am) both Mu Wednesday 19 February
Thursday 20 and Friday 21 February
D y and
a
Price £38 Theatre A morning filled with fairies, potions and For more information visit
Day An exciting two day masterclass with a
Play in a fantastical forests. watermill.org.uk/take-part
for £70 professional musical director exploring
Play in a Day how to write and perform songs for Like our Outreach page on Facebook
Tuesday 18 February The Velveteen Rabbit musical theatre.
Ages: 7 - 11 (9am - 4.30pm, flexible drop Wednesday 8 April Price £70 Watermill Theatre Outreach
off available from 8.30am) Explore the classic story of
Price £38 The Velveteen Rabbit. Physical Theatre
Monday 6 April
Play in a Week Secret Spies This unique theatre
All of our take part activities can
Tuesday 14 to Friday 17 April Wednesday 27 May technique emphasises
Join us support young people in achieving
Ages: 7 - 11 (9am - 3.30pm, flexible drop Become a brave agent following the use of movement. April
fo both
r their Arts Award.
off available from 8.30am) clues and solving puzzles. Learn this new skill rc la sses
and discover how Maste
Price £128 for £70
it’s used in
performance.
Price £38
Performing with Puppets
Tuesday 7 April
Explore the art of being a puppeteer and
discover how to interact with puppets.
Price £38
To book a course or for more information about how to take part, call Outreach
on 01635 570934, email outreach@watermill.org.uk or book online.
22 23Take Part - Adults Take Part -
Professionals & Education
Scratch Choir Adult Courses
A professional Musical Director will guide NEW! One Act
you through a selection of music, revealing
tips and techniques for all singing levels. Join us once a month for a masterclass
Together you will create a concert to with a Watermill professional.
perform to friends and family. All abilities 6.45pm - 8.30pm
welcome, the emphasis is on having fun!
Wednesday 29 January
Sunday 29 March Improvisation
Scratch Choir: Famous Folk Wednesday 19 February
Physical Theatre
Sing classic songs from famous folk
musicians including Bob Dylan, Van Wednesday 11 March
Morrison and Carole King. Acting for Musical Theatre
Rehearsal 10am - 5.30pm Wednesday 15 April
Performance at 6pm Performing Shakespeare
The bar will be open after the performance Wednesday 27 May
for drinks and a light supper. Exploring Scripts
Price £30 Schools Free post-show Q&As
Wednesday 10 June
Sign Language On Stage We offer an extensive education Find out more about the creative process
programme for schools including and how our shows are brought to life.
Price £15 per session workshops, free education packs and
or book all 6 sessions for £60. See page 37-39 for dates.
dynamic CPD and INSET for teachers. For
Everyone aged 16+ welcome. more details, please visit the Take Part
pages on our website or call Heidi on
01635 570927.
Fourth Wall We offer a range of opportunities that can
Thursdays from 2 April to 21 May Raising Voices assist your school’s Artsmark application.
10.30am - 12noon A script reading scheme for budding For more information visit
playwrights. Send your script to us and watermill.org.uk/take-part
A group for adults with a learning
one of our professionals will provide
disability exploring Shakespeare’s Like our Outreach page on Facebook
constructive feedback. The fee for
Hamlet every Thursday for 8 weeks,
submissions is £33 per play (to cover
watching the Watermill show together
reader’s fees). Watermill Theatre Outreach
and performing our own adaptation
for friends and family. Please visit
To book a course or for
more information, call Outreach
www.watermill.org.uk/fourth_wall or Actors Forum
contact our Community Associate
on 01635 570934, email We run a regular group for local
on 01635 570918 for more details.
outreach@watermill.org.uk professional actors to exchange ideas and
or book online. Price £36, this includes your ticket to the share skills. It’s free to join and monthly The Sackler Trust, Principal Supporter of
theatre. Bursary places are available. meetings are held at The Watermill. The Watermill’s Core Education Programme.
24 25Accessible Theatre
We’re committed to making our theatre as welcoming as possible for everyone who joins us
as an audience member or participant. Here’s an overview of accessibility at The Watermill.
For more information, please visit our website or get in touch:
www.watermill.org.uk/access
Box Office 01635 46044
email boxoffice@watermill.org.uk
Getting around
Almost everywhere is wheelchair-accessible with the exception of Circle seats (on the first
floor) which are accessed by a spiral staircase, there is no lift. Subject to availability we can
welcome two wheelchair users to every performance in the stalls (on the ground floor) and
can reserve one of our accessible parking spaces. Essential companion tickets are free of
charge, see page 33 for more details.
Access Diary Backstage Tours
D/deaf and hearing impaired audiences
British Sign Language performances are sign integrated. This means that the sign performer Audio Described Performances Go behind the scenes, enjoy lunch and
is onstage translating alongside the actors. Look out for the BSL symbol on the show One Million Tiny Plays About Britain watch a show in the theatre.
information pages. If you would like to make the onstage volume a little louder, you’re Saturday 15 February at 1.30pm Find out more about the unique history of
welcome to borrow a personal headset that works with or without a hearing aid. this once derelict mill and its transformation
The Wicker Husband
Visually impaired audiences Saturday 28 March at 2.30pm into a vibrant producing theatre. Discover
how and where our shows are created
Audio Description paints a picture of what is happening onstage for audience members Hamlet before enjoying lunch and a matinée
who are blind or partially sighted. The audio describer uses the natural pauses in the action Saturday 23 May at 1.30pm performance. Booking is open to individuals
to deliver a live narration to the listener’s personal headset. Before every AD performance and groups. Tours start at 12.30pm on the
at The Watermill, a free Touch Tour gives guests the chance to explore the production’s set, Our Man in Havana
Saturday 11 July at 2.30pm following dates. To book, call the Box Office
costumes and props. on 01635 46044.
Audio and large print copies of our brochure are available Sign Integrated Performances The Wicker Husband
on request from the box office. Hamlet Thursday 26 March
Tuesday 12 May at 7.30pm Our Man in Havana
Audiences with autism, dementia and learning disabilities Saturday 16 May at 2.30pm Saturday 27 June
Relaxed Performances are designed to welcome audience members with sensory sensitivities
Relaxed Performance Price £50 (includes tour, lunch and a ticket
or anyone who might find it challenging to be in a conventional theatre environment.
for the matinée performance).
Visitors can download our Social Story (a visual guide to The Watermill) from the website. Hamlet
Thursday 21 May at 2.30pm Tours for school groups may be arranged
Assistance dogs on request through the Outreach
We welcome assistance dogs. Please let the box office know they’ll be with you so we can department on 01635 570927 or email
offer a seat with space for you both. outreach@watermill.org.uk
Familiarisation visits To book seats in the best position for
If you have not come to The Watermill before, you might like to contact the box office to access performances, call 01635 46044 watermill.org.uk
arrange a time when it is less busy to have a look around and get your bearings. or email boxoffice@watermill.org.uk BOX OFFICE 01635 46044
26 27Supporting Your Theatre!
Through our work on and offstage we seek Your support really does reach every Our sincere thanks go to the following people and organisations whose generosity
to share the joy of theatre, welcoming corner of our work. You help us to provide deserves a round of applause. Thank you.
people of all ages, abilities and from all walks development opportunities for artists at
of life to enjoy our shows and take part. the beginning of their career, including
Alongside the creation of onstage
those talented creatives who work behind Watermill Sponsors Trusts and Foundations
the scenes. With your help, we are able to
productions, our activities include touring • du Pré • Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation
nurture emerging costume makers, lighting
work, community, education and youth
designers, stage managers, directors and
participation opportunities. • Heritage Financial Advisers • The Arbib Charitable Fund
so many others who work alongside our
It costs in the region of £3 million to run the professional team. • Horsey Lightly Solicitors • The Arts Council, England
theatre, produce the shows you see onstage
You help to spark imaginations, inspire • Saica Pack • The Colefax Charitable Trust
and deliver our outreach and education
creativity and delight and surprise
programme each year.
audiences of all ages. We are incredibly • Sheepdrove Organic Farm & • Doris Field Charitable Trust
A significant percentage of our income is grateful and promise to spend every Eco Conference Centre
earned through ticket and restaurant sales but donation you make wisely, where it’s • The D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust
for the remainder, we rely on the generosity needed most, and with respect. • The Dyers’ Company
of our wonderful supporters, people just
like you: kind individuals with a passion for Find out more at Platinum Benefactors • The Englefield Charitable Trust
theatre, local businesses wanting to support watermill.org.uk/support_us
their community, trusts and foundations keen • James Rees • Fuller’s
to invest in the future of the arts. Make a difference, dramatically! • Sir Trevor Chinn CVO and Lady Chinn • The AW Gale Charitable Trust
• The Hon Christopher and Mrs Sharples • Gamlen Charitable Trust
Here are just a few ways you can support us:
• Anonymous • Greenham Trust
• The Iliffe Family Charitable Trust
Become a • Miss W E Lawrence 1973 Charity
Benefactor or
Gold Benefactors
• The Patricia Routledge Charitable Trust
Watermill Circle • Anthony Harris
Member Make a • Jen and Ali Grimstone-Jones • PGCT
regular or • The Sackler Trust
one-off Name A Seat
• The Sheepdrove Trust
donation
Sponsor a
Become a
performance or
Friend
production
Join as a For further information on ways to support The Watermill please contact Jo or
Leave a gift
Corporate Club Charlotte in the Development team for a friendly chat on 01635 570928 or 570915
in your Will
Member or email development@watermill.org.uk
The Watermill Theatre is a registered charity, no. 261430
28 29Watermill Friends ds
Frien e
o h
f T
Become a Friend of The Watermill
By becoming a Friend of The Watermill Theatre your support goes to the heart of what we
do - create exciting and memorable theatre for all to enjoy. Your donation will also help us to
deliver an inspirational outreach programme to those in our local community.
Throughout the year, the Friends Committee, run by a dedicated group of volunteers,
organise a range of activities and events including a series of Lunchtime Talks and Supper
Clubs with keynote speakers, walks with talks, fairs, workshops and much more. Past speakers
have included Libby Purves, Deborah Puxley, Stewart Hofgartner and the directors of Kiss Me,
Kate and Assassins. Events are open to all, with Friends receiving priority booking.
The Friends of The Watermill make an impressive financial contribution to the theatre,
a registered charity. Last year, they generated over £105,000 from donations and
organised events.
As a Watermill Friend, we offer:
• Priority booking (whenever possible)
• Regular events leaflet
Typically, our Friends make a £30 donation as an individual supporter or £45 as joint
supporters (two people living at the same address).
With your help, we can achieve so much. Join us now, and we promise to make the most Christmas Fair The Watermill Summer Fair
amazing theatre for you to enjoy. Friday 8 November 2019 Sunday 31 May 2020
To become a Friend, please visit watermill.org.uk/friends or call the Friends Secretary on 9.30am - 2.30pm 12noon - 4pm
01635 45834. The annual Christmas Fair offers a diverse Come and share the beautiful
We look forward to welcoming you. range of festive gift ideas for all the surroundings of The Watermill for our
family. New stalls have been included annual Summer Fair.
this year alongside old favourites. Light
Enjoy live music, Punch and Judy, stalls,
lunch and seasonal refreshments will
games, delicious food, a Pimm’s bar,
The Early Bird Catches The Show! be available to buy and enjoy during
the day.
raffle and a chance to back a winner in
the duck race.
Would you like priority booking for Watermill shows? Entry £3.50
Entry Adults £1, 12 years and under FREE.
Become a Friend of The Watermill for early We are on the lookout for volunteers
to help at the Summer Fair. If you are
access to your favourite seats! interested in getting involved and are
able to offer a few hours of your time,
Visit watermill.org.uk/friends or call 01635 45834 please contact the Friends Secretary on
01635 45834 for further information.
Please visit watermill.org.uk or call the box office on 01635 46044 for more information.
30 31Your Visit
Ticket Prices Concessions Discounts
Performance Band A Band B Band C Concession prices are shown in brackets Young people aged 16 to 25
on page 32. A limited number of £10 tickets are
available for all performances of main
One Million Tiny Plays About Britain, We offer concessions to senior citizens,
house shows*. Book with the box office
A Midsummer Night’s Dream, under 18s and full-time students in higher
and collect 30 minutes prior to the
The Wicker Husband, Hamlet, or further education, Equity members,
performance. Subject to availability. Proof
and Our Man in Havana: people in receipt of income support
of status required.
First Week Special £22 £22 £18 benefits and people in receipt of disability
benefits. Standby tickets for under 18s and
Monday to Thursday evenings and full-time students
Thursday and Saturday matinées £31 (£29) £28 (£26) £20 (£18) Concessions are not applicable to First
£5 tickets for main house shows
Friday and Saturday evenings £33 £30 £22 Week Special prices. All concessions and
are available from the Box Office in
discounts are subject to availability and
person from midday on the day of the
are not offered retrospectively. Only one
Camp Albion £22 £22 £18 performance.* Subject to availability. Proof
concession or discount applies per ticket.
of status required.
Proof of status is required.
Senior Youth Theatre School and Youth Groups
Goodnight Mr Tom £14 (£7) £14 (£7) £13 (£6.50) 20% off tickets on Monday to Thursday
evening performances of main house
shows.* Free teacher’s ticket with every
Concession prices are shown in brackets. 15 seats booked. Tickets for matinée
performances are £8.50. Offer not
S1 S9
applicable to First Week Special prices.
Band A Band B Band C O1 DD P1
Groups of 10 or more
BB AA CC AA BB
Please note that rows A, AA, B, BB, CC, DD 15% off on Monday to Thursday evening
and S are not available for all productions. and matinée performances of main house
STAGE shows.* Book 15 tickets and receive a free
Rows O and P are galleried with two posts AREA organiser ticket. Offer not applicable to
on either side (• denotes posts). These seats First Week Special prices.
CIRCLE SLIPS
CIRCLE SLIPS
offer a side or overhead view of the stage
and are priced according to visibility. Free Essential Companion ticket
A1 A12
For audience members with additional
Please note, reusable plastic cups will be B1 B12
needs who cannot attend without
provided to take drinks into most areas of C1 C12
assistance. Contact the box office to book.
D1 D12
the auditorium.
E1 E12
West Berkshire Green Card
F1 F12
10% off tickets on Monday to Thursday
Parental Guidance G1 G12
evening for One Million Tiny Plays About
As a general rule, no babies or children H1 H12
Britain 3 to 6 February, A Midsummer
under 3 will be admitted unless it is a J1 J11
O22 P22 Night’s Dream 24 to 27 February, The Wicker
children’s show aimed at very young K1 K12
Husband 16 to 19 March, Hamlet 20 to 23
children or a Relaxed Performance. If an age L1 L12
M1 M12 April and Our Man in Havana 15 to 18 June.
limit is considered appropriate, guidelines
N1 N11
will be published. *Excludes Goodnight Mister Tom, Wonky
R1 CIRCLE R6
and Sunday Sessions.
32 33How to Book How to Find Us
Please tell us about any special requirements you, or anyone in your party has when you By car or coach
book your seats. Our box office team will be happy to advise. From the M4, junction 13 or A34, turn off at the junction signposted Newbury, Hungerford
(Donnington, Speen) and take the first exit at the roundabout. If travelling from the south, go
In person
straight over the second roundabout. Turn left at The Hare and Hounds public house (brown
Opening Times: 10am to 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday. Non-performance days: 10am to 6pm.
sign post for The Watermill Theatre), turn left at the end of the road and then second right
Bank Holidays: 12noon until 6pm.
into the village of Bagnor and left at the sign for The Watermill.
Box office 01635 46044
During busy times, you may hear a message. Please leave your name and number and we will By bus
call you back as soon as we can. Kennections, service 4, runs Monday to Saturday from Newbury bus station to The Hare and
Hounds, Station Road, Speen, approximately 20 minutes walk to The Watermill.
Book online watermill.org.uk
There is no booking fee. We do not provide e-tickets but you will receive email confirmation By train
of your booking.
Approximately an hour from London Paddington to Newbury station. There is a taxi rank at
Newbury station.
How to Pay Car and bike parking
There is free parking at the theatre but please be aware that space is limited. Please car-share
Tickets can be paid for by credit or debit card, or they can be reserved for up to three days whenever possible. There is a bicycle rack alongside the restaurant.
while you send us a cheque payable to Watermill Theatre Ltd or call us to arrange payment.
We can post your tickets to you for a charge of £1.30 (postage and administration) or you
can collect your tickets from the box office up to 30 minutes prior to the performance. Please
check your tickets carefully upon receipt to ensure you have the right number, performance
date and time. All tickets are non-refundable. For exchanges and resales, it is the customer’s
responsibility to return original tickets to the box office within three days.
Exchanging tickets
For an admin fee of £2 per ticket, we are happy to exchange tickets for another performance
of the same production, subject to availability, up to 48 hours before the performance.
Reselling tickets
We will try to resell your tickets after all other tickets have been sold and will credit your
Watermill account which will be valid for one year. We charge £2 per transaction. We do not
automatically update you on the progress of resales, but please call the box office if you need
an update on whether your tickets have sold.
Upgrading tickets
Within 48 hours of the show, if you wish to upgrade your tickets, you will need to purchase
the new ones and offer your old ones for resale. Original tickets will need to be returned to
the box office and will only be re-sold after all other tickets have been sold.
Gift vouchers
Watermill vouchers can be purchased from the box office and online and can be used to buy
tickets. We are unable to accept them in our bar and restaurant. Vouchers are valid for one
year and are non-refundable. We are unable to accept expired vouchers.
34 35Keep in Touch Performance Diary
Join our mailing list Join us online NOVEMBER
You can find out what’s going on at The For behind the scenes news, videos and the Friday 8 Watermill Christmas Fair 9.30am to 2.30pm
Watermill by joining our free mailing list. latest event information: JANUARY
Visit our website and complete the form Wednesday 29 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 7.30pm
Visit our website watermill.org.uk
online, email boxoffice@watermill.org.uk Thursday 30 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 2.30pm & 7.30pm
or call 01635 46044. Read our blog watermill.org.uk/blog Friday 31 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 7.30pm
When processing your booking, our box Like and follow us on social media FEBRUARY
office staff will ask for your name, address, Saturday 1 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 2.30pm & 7.30pm
thewatermilltheatre Monday 3 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 7.30pm
telephone number and email address. This watermilltheatreoutreach
information will be used to process your Tuesday 4 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 7.30pm
Wednesday 5 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 7.30pm
transaction and to keep you informed of any WatermillTh
Thursday 6 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 2.30pm & 7.30pm
important details relating to your booking.
Friday 7 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 7.30pm
thewatermilltheatre Saturday 8 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 2.30pm & 7.30pm
How we contact you Monday 10 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 7.30pm
By post TheWatermillTheatre Tuesday 11 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 7.30pm
Wednesday 12 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 7.30pm
From time to time we will send information Thursday 13 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 2.30pm & 7.30pm
to you about season announcements, shows, Friday 14 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 7.30pm
events and offers, fundraising, dining and Saturday 15 One Million Tiny Plays About Britain 1.30pm & 6.30pm
opportunities to Take Part. If you do not wish Wednesday 19 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 7.30pm
to receive information by post, please inform Thursday 20 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 2.30pm & 7.30pm
the box office when booking or select Friday 21 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 7.30pm
‘Go paperless’ in your online account. Saturday 22 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Monday 24 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 7.30pm
By email Tuesday 25 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 7.30pm
Wednesday 26 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 7.30pm
If you would like to receive information by Thursday 27 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 2.30pm & 7.30pm
email about season announcements, shows, Friday 28 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 7.30pm
events and offers, fundraising, dining and Saturday 29 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 2.30pm & 7.30pm
opportunities to Take Part, please inform
the box office when booking or select the MARCH
relevant option in your online account. Monday 2 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 7.30pm
Tuesday 3 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 7.30pm
You can change your contact details and Wednesday 4 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 7.30pm
preferences online at watermill.org.uk or Thursday 5 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 2.30pm & 7.30pm
by calling the box office. Recycling Friday 6 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 7.30pm
Saturday 7 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 1.30pm & 6.30pm
For more information please This brochure can be recycled and is Thursday 12 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm
read our privacy policy at produced using paper from FSC-certified Friday 13 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm
www.watermill.org.uk/privacy_policy forests, recycled material, or controlled wood. Saturday 14 The Wicker Husband 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Monday 16 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm
Credits Tuesday 17 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm
Wednesday 18 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm
Design and print by: Kingsclere Design and Print 01635 299507. Thursday 19 The Wicker Husband 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Photos and images by: Tom Broadfoot, Jim Creighton, Feast Creative, Pablo González-Trejo, Friday 20 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm
Saturday 21 The Wicker Husband 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Eden Harrhy, KDP, Gemma Leggett, Philip Tull, Pamela Raith and Scott Rylander.
Sunday 22 The Boulevards 3pm
36 37Monday 23 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm Tuesday 26 Camp Albion 7.30pm
Tuesday 24 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm Wednesday 27 Camp Albion 7.30pm
Wednesday 25 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm Thursday 28 Camp Albion 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Thursday 26 The Wicker Husband 2.30pm & 7.30pm Friday 29 Camp Albion 7.30pm
Friday 27 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm Saturday 30 Camp Albion 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Saturday 28 The Wicker Husband 2.30pm & 7.30pm Sunday 31 Watermill Summer Fair 12 noon to 4pm
Monday 30 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm
Tuesday 31 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm JUNE
Monday 1 Camp Albion 7.30pm
APRIL Tuesday 2 Camp Albion 7.30pm
Wednesday 1 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm Wednesday 3 Camp Albion 7.30pm
Thursday 2 The Wicker Husband 2.30pm & 7.30pm Thursday 4 Camp Albion 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Friday 3 The Wicker Husband 7.30pm Friday 5 Camp Albion 7.30pm
Saturday 4 The Wicker Husband 1.30pm & 6.30pm Saturday 6 Camp Albion 1.30pm & 6.30pm
Wednesday 8 Goodnight Mister Tom 7.30pm Thursday 11 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Thursday 9 Goodnight Mister Tom 7.30pm Friday 12 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Friday 10 Goodnight Mister Tom 7.30pm Saturday 13 Our Man in Havana 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Saturday 11 Goodnight Mister Tom 6.30pm Monday 15 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Friday 17 Hamlet 7.30pm Tuesday 16 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Saturday 18 Hamlet 7.30pm Wednesday 17 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Monday 20 Hamlet 7.30pm Thursday 18 Our Man in Havana 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Tuesday 21 Hamlet 7.30pm Friday 19 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Wednesday 22 Hamlet 7.30pm Saturday 20 Our Man in Havana 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Thursday 23 Hamlet 2.30pm & 7.30pm Monday 22 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Friday 24 Hamlet 7.30pm Tuesday 23 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Saturday 25 Hamlet 2.30pm & 7.30pm Wednesday 24 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Monday 27 Hamlet 7.30pm Thursday 25 Our Man in Havana 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Tuesday 28 Hamlet 7.30pm Friday 26 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Wednesday 29 Hamlet 7.30pm Saturday 27 Our Man in Havana 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Thursday 30 Hamlet 2.30pm & 7.30pm Monday 29 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Tuesday 30 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
MAY
Friday 1 Hamlet 7.30pm JULY
Saturday 2 Really Big Pants - Wonky 11am Wednesday 1 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Saturday 2 Hamlet 2.30pm & 7.30pm Thursday 2 Our Man in Havana 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Monday 4 Hamlet 7.30pm Friday 3 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Tuesday 5 Hamlet 7.30pm Saturday 4 Our Man in Havana 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Wednesday 6 Hamlet 7.30pm Sunday 5 The Mistakable Sound of Ed MacArthur 3pm
Thursday 7 Hamlet 2.30pm & 7.30pm Monday 6 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Friday 8 Hamlet 7.30pm Tuesday 7 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Saturday 9 Hamlet 2.30pm & 7.30pm Wednesday 8 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Monday 11 Hamlet 7.30pm Thursday 9 Our Man in Havana 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Tuesday 12 Hamlet 7.30pm Friday 10 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Wednesday 13 Hamlet 7.30pm Saturday 11 Our Man in Havana 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Thursday 14 Hamlet 2.30pm & 7.30pm Monday 13 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Friday 15 Hamlet 7.30pm Tuesday 14 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Saturday 16 Hamlet 2.30pm & 7.30pm Wednesday 15 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Monday 18 Hamlet 7.30pm Thursday 16 Our Man in Havana 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Tuesday 19 Hamlet 7.30pm Friday 17 Our Man in Havana 7.30pm
Wednesday 20 Hamlet 7.30pm Saturday 18 Our Man in Havana 1.30pm & 6.30pm
Thursday 21 Hamlet 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Friday 22 Hamlet 7.30pm British Sign Language Integrated Audio Described Touch Tour
Saturday 23 Hamlet 1.30pm & 6.30pm Relaxed Performance Post-show Q&A Backstage Tour
38 39You can also read
