YORK Event News- March & April 2011
04/02/2011
March Events 2011
Spooksfest
11-13 March 2011
Historic York, Europe's most haunted city, will be the host this March for a new and exciting festival, Spooksfest 2011. Bringing together some of the UK's top experts in the paranormal and supernatural and using some of the UK's most historic buildings, streets and snickleways, Spooksfest promises to be a fun, fearful and fascinating weekend.
Hear about the ghosts and gory history of York with the world famous ghost walks and meet the local 'spirits' on a Haunted Pub Crawl. Or why not join Fairfax House for a spooky evening of dramatised readings of classic M.R. James ghost stories. Discover the darker secrets of the Mansion House, home to the Lord Mayor of York, by candlelight on a spooky stories tour, or perhaps visit City Screen for spine-tingling horror movies!
On Saturday spend an evening with Dr Ciaran O'Keefe., TV parapsychologist, known for his appearances on "Most Haunted", in the Historic Treasurers House, home to one of the most famous ghost stories in the UK.
Public contact: For a full list of events and information on ticket sales, visit http://www.spooksfest.co.uk/ or email info@spooksfest.co.uk
Press contact: Amanda Hayward, In the Company of Ghosts, Tel: 07501 736103.
York Festival of Science and Technology
11th - 20th March 2011
A 10 day festival ‘bringing science to life' in and around the UK's founding National Science City, and one which literally sees the many wonders of science popping up in all sorts of unexpected places across the City. Valued contributors to National Science and Engineering Week (NSEW), Science City York and partners will be holding a whole host of special events and activities spanning a variety of talks, exhibitions and hands-on activities for this ever-popular festival, now in its 14th year. The York Festival of Science and Technology is supported by Yorkshire Forward, with additional support in 2011 from the Research Councils UK.
Public contact: For further information please contact Science City York, Tel: 01904 870047, E science.city@scy.co.uk www.sciencecityyork.org.uk/community Press Contact: Imogen Foster, T 01904 870044 E imogen.foster@scy.co.uk
National Railway Museum
Stephenson's Rocket and the Rainhill trials
2 March, 19:00
Admission is free although numbers are limited. To book, please call 01904 685 724. Duration: 30 minutes.
Join engineer Richard Gibbon for a talk about his latest book about Stephenson's masterpiece, Rocket.
Discovery Day
12 March (part of Science Week, 13 - 20 March)
Free admission
Get your whole family hands-on and involved with over 20 workshops looking at the wonderful and strange science behind everyday living.
Record breakers - a racy weekend at the NRM
19 & 20 March (part of Science Week, 13 - 20 March)
Free admission
Celebrate the end of Science Week with a weekend exploring the world of the fast and glamorous. From stunning streamliners to speediest movers looking at the world of record breaking trains, bicycles and cars. Join in with our speedy craft activities, science shows and storytelling.
Public contact: For more information, visit http://www.nrm.org.uk/, telephone 08448 153 139 or email nrm@nrm.org.uk Press contact: Emma Rodgers, Tel: 01904 686262 Email: emma.rodgers@nrm.org.uk
York Castle Museum
Mini Marvels
24 March, 10.30am - 11.30am
Take a magnifying tour of a selection of miniatures in the collection. Tiny treasures include miniature portraits, books, dolls' furniture, sewing machines, hot water bottles and cake tins!
£5 per person. To book, telephone 01904 650333.
Public contact: For more information http://www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk/
Press contact: Lee Clark, Media Co-ordinator, Tel: 01904 687673, email: lee.clark@ymt.org.uk
National Centre for Early Music (NCEM)
EARLY MUSIC
Thursday 17 March 2011, 7:30pm
I Fagiolini's 25th Birthday Cocktail: ‘It Don't mean a thing
Tickets: Adults £17.00, Concessions £15.00
Robert Hollingworth directs Early Music superstars, I Fagiloini, in an eclectic programme which features Orlando Gough's exciting new work for the group ‘The Spell', co-commissioned by the NCEM to celebrate their 10th anniversary and by I Fagiolini for their 25th anniversary, amongst works by Janequin, De Wert, Monteverdi, Milhaud, Lennon/McCartney (arr. Runswick) and Ellington (arr Hollingworth). (Supported by the PRS for Music Foundation)
Public contact: For more information and to book tickets, please call the Box Office on 01904 658338 or visit the website at http://www.ncem.co.uk/
Press contact: Melanie Paris, Tel: 01904 632220, Email: Melanie.paris@ncem.co.uk
Quilt Museum and Gallery
‘Meet the Maker' Talk by Sara Impey
Wednesday 16 March, 12-1pm
Standard admission applies
Another popular 'Meet the Maker' talk, with Sara Impey of Quilt Art.
Sara Impey is in her own words "a self-taught quiltmaker with a background in journalism". Sara has been a member of Quilt Art since 2001 and co-edited Textile Perspectives from 1997-2010. Her quilt 'Punctuation' was included in the V&A's exhibition 'Quilts 1700-2010: Hidden Histories, Untold Stories' and that piece has been bought by the museum.
No booking necessary. Seating can be provided upon request.
Public Contact: Email info@quiltmuseum.org.uk or visit http://www.quiltmuseum.org.uk/
Press Contact: janrae@ednet.co.uk
York Theatre Royal
York Light Opera Company present
Crazy for You
1-12 March
Tickets £5 - £22, Main House
This multi award-winning show ran on Broadway for 1622 performances and includes the much loved Gershwin classics: They Can't Take That Away From Me, Someone to Watch Over Me and I Got Rhythm.
This high energy musical comedy is packed full of fabulous dance numbers, plenty of plot twists and classic Gershwin music. Not to be missed.
York Settlement Community Players present
Ghosts
2-12 March
Tickets: £12, £7 students & u25s, £10 concessions, Studio
How far will someone go in order to leave the past and move into the future?
Mrs Alving is preparing for the opening of an orphanage in memory of her late husband.
When her son, Osvald, returns to the family home to celebrate the heroic memory of his dead father, she is forced to reveal the ghosts of the past she is desperate to forget.
A vibrant new version of Ibsen's powerful and controversial psychological drama.
Comedy Night
21 March
Main House, 7.30pm
Tickets £12, £7 students & u25s
Enjoy an evening of big laughs as four of the countries exciting comedy acts take to the stage.
Jarred Christmas, Dan Nightingale, Chris Stokes and Seann Walsh have impressed critics, promoters, judges and audiences around the country with assured delivery and superb material.
Belt Up Theatre
The Beggar's Opera
24-26 March 2011
7.30pm with a 2.30pm matinee, Main House
Tickets £12, £7 students and U25s
From the York Theatre Royal resident company behind The Tartuffe, The Trial, Macbeth and a widespread reputation for breaking down classic stories and reigniting them with energetic dynamism comes a brand new version of John Gay's epic story of thieves, lechery and villainy.
Public contact: To find out more information about what's happening at York Theatre Royal in March with a full list of productions or to buy tickets, visit http://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/ or telephone 01904 623568.
Press contact: Rebecca Storey, Press & Media Manager, York Theatre Royal, Tel: 01904 550149, Email: Rebecca.storey@yorktheatreroyal.co.uk
Grand Opera House
Barbara Dickson
7 March, 8pm
As a multi-million selling recording artist with an equally impressive Olivier award-winning acting career, Barbara Dickson has firmly established herself as one of the most versatile performers in the UK.
Joe Brown in Concert
11 March, 7.30pm
This country's premier Rock & Roll legend Joe Brown comes to us after another remarkable year even by his own high standards. The year 2008 marked Joe's 50th year as a professional entertainer and he truly is one of this country's best loved, enduring, and most acclaimed musicians. Joe, along with his band is back at this theatre by popular demand in another two-hour musical celebration.
Magic of Motown
26 March, 7.30pm
Celebrating 50 years of number one hits, live from the USA, it's the music of the Temptations, Diana Ross & The Supremes, Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, Lionel Richie, Martha Reeves & more.
Public contact: To find out more about what's on in March and for a full list of productions and show or to book tickets please visit http://www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk/ or Tel: 0844 847 2322
Press contact: Celestine Dubruel, email: celestinedubruel@theambassadors.com or Tel: 01904 678711
Bedern Hall
Pancake Day
8th March 2011
Pancake Day at Bedern Hall sees the launch of a new way to enjoy fresh local food with friends and family over lunchtime. Forget grabbing a plastic wrapped sarnie and eating on the hoof! Take some time out for a treat at Bedern Hall.
‘Your Local Lunch' is a monthly lunch club, open to all, serving fairly priced, simple lunch dishes using local seasonal produce. These will range from gourmet sandwiches, freshly made soups, sharing platters and a special dishes each month. Daily papers and free WiFi are available. Bookings can be made up until the night before using text, Twitter or Facebook. Members will also benefit from regular offers including discounts on other events held at the Hall.
Public contact: For more information visit http://www.bedernhall.co.uk/ or to make a booking call free on 0808 180 0099. Or to call the hall direct tel: 01904 646030.
Press contact: Roger Lee, email; roger@bedernhall.co.uk, Tel: 01904 646030.
Yorkshire Air Museum
‘Halifax Heroes' Lecture
Saturday 19 March
The legendary Halifax Bomber, crew and operational bases will be explored in a lecture presentation and veteran signing event. The Nightshoot! will present a unique evening photographic opportunity with selected aircraft.
Public contact: Visit http://www.yorkshireairmuseum.org/ or telephone 01904 608595
Press contact: Ian Richardson, email: pr@yorkshireairmuseum.org, Tel: 01904 608718 / 07740 992 832.
North York Moors
Danby Castle and Little Fryupdale Health Walk
Wednesday 2 March, 10am - 12.30pm
Join Voluntary Ranger Steve Greatorex for a peaceful 4 mile walk using pleasant field paths, tracks and quiet country lanes with superb views of Little Fryupdale and the River Esk. Note: the paths may be muddy. This walk is free but donations are welcome. Starts from The Moors National Park Centre, Danby. Booking is essential.
Duncombe Park National Nature Reserve Health Walk
Sunday 6 March, 10.30am - 1pm
A slightly more adventurous 3.3 mile walk along the Cleveland Way National Trail and into Duncombe Park National Nature Reserve led by Natural England Community Outreach Advisor Kerry Netherway. This walk gives an insight into the history and heritage of the area and affords wonderful views of Rye Dale. This walk is free but donations are welcome. Starts from the Market Cross, Helmsley. Booking is essential.
Moorland and Dales
Sunday 13 March, 11.30am - 4.30pm
Voluntary Ranger Dave Perry leads on this 6 mile walk, taking in the moorlands and dales around the Chop Gate area. See ancient rock art, standing stones, interesting geology, veteran trees and local wildlife. Cost: £2.50. Start at Clay Bank Car Park. Booking is essential.
NEW EXHIBITION
Fascinating Fibres - at The Moors National Park Centre's Inspired by... Gallery in Danby
Friday 18 March - Tuesday 12 April
Free entry, open daily from 10am until 5pm
Cleveland Fibre Arts textile group take their inspiration from the Cleveland Hills and the North York Moors to produce pieces of spinning, weaving, quilting, felting and allied arts and crafts which evoke the moods of this beautiful landscape through colour and texture.
NEW EXHIBTION
Cleveland Art Society on the Moors - - at The Moors National Park Centre's Inspired by... Gallery in Danby
Friday 18 March - Tuesday 12 April
Free entry, open daily from 10am until 5pm
A collection of watercolour, oil and mixed media art depicting landscape, flora and fauna from the abstract inspired by natural forms and organic shapes to the more traditional.
Boltby Scar Excavations - one year and one month to go
Wednesday 30 March, 7.30pm to 9pm, Sutton Bank National Park Centre
Free to attend
During September 2009 a four week excavation took place at Boltby Scar iron age hillfort. Lead archaeologist Dominic Powlesland will talk about the excavation's findings and the incredible stories behind this landscape rich with history. Dominic's talk will also set the scene for the follow-on excavation which will take place during May 2011. Information will be available about how to take part in this exciting venture by helping as a volunteer excavator with training provided on site by the Landscape Research Centre team.
Public contact: For more information on any of the events above or to book, telephone 01439 772738.
Press contact: Rachel McIntosh, Communications Officer - North York Moors National Park Authority, Tel: 01439 770657 Email: r.mcintosh@northyorkmoors-npa.gov.uk
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal
Winter Abbey Tours
Saturdays & Sundays 5-6, 12-13, 19-20 &26-27 March
1.30pm
Normal admission applies
Join a tour to discover fascinating facts and stories about the Abbey and monks. Meet at Porter's Lodge.
World Heritage Site Tour
Saturday 12 March
10.30am - 1pm
Normal admission applies
Find out what makes Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal a World Heritage Site. Meet at the Visitor Centre. Outdoor footwear recommended.
Bird Watching for Beginners
Saturday 26 March
10.30am - 12.30pm
Normal admission applies
Enjoy an introduction to twitching! Join our wildlife guide for a birding walk through the estate. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Public contact: For further details on all events, telephone 01765 608888.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Admission Prices:
Adult £8.50
Child £4.55
Under 5 FREE
Family £21.60
National Trust and English Heritage Members FREE
Open daily 10am-5pm
Further information, Tel: Estate Office, 01765 608888 / http://www.fountainsabbey.org.uk/
Press contact: Please contact Alexa Morton, Visitor Experience and Marketing Manager, Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, Estate Office, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY. Tel: 01765 643199. Email: alexa.morton@nationaltrust.org.uk
April Events 2011
York Open Studios
1-3 & 8-10 April 2011
2011 will see the tenth York Open Studios and to celebrate, the event will be much larger and will be held over two weekends, 1st, 2nd and 3rd April and 8th, 9th and 10th April 2011.
All previous participants have been invited to take part, and in addition 2011 will see over forty new faces opening up their homes, studios and exhibitions to the public inviting them in to take a look around. A great opportunity for art lovers to visit a grand total of 119 of York's best professional artists and makers.
A chance to tour around the studios, view (and buy!) a range of art work in different media, chat to the artists in informal surroundings and sometimes even watch the artist at work. Public and Press Contact: Ruth King, 01904 470196, Email: info@yorkopenstudios.co.uk or visit: http://www.yorkopenstudios.co.uk/
Battle of Towton 550th anniversary
Saturday 9 April
Micklegate Bar Museum
NEW EXHIBITION - The Battle of Towton
10am until 4pm
Normal admission prices apply. Exhibition runs until 30th October.
An innovative new exhibition to tell the triumphant and tragic story of Britain's bloodiest battle, which decided the fate of a kingdom and left thousands dead.
DIG
Terry's Towton
10.30am - 12.30pm
Free admission. Meet Terry Deary, the star of our Towton exhibition film and writer of the Horrible Histories series, as he signs books and chats with his fans, assisted by a team of horrible medieval peasants. Plus: collect a free child's ticket to visit Micklegate Bar and Barley Hall.
Micklegate Bar Museum
Meet the Gatekeeper
10.30am - 4pm
Normal admission prices apply.
The Bar's medieval gatekeeper will be on hand with fun and gruesome activities for kids.
Sunday 10th April
Micklegate Bar Museum
Meet the Gatekeeper
10.30am - 4pm,
Normal admission prices apply.
The Bar's medieval gatekeeper will be on hand with fun and gruesome activities for kids.
Walking Tour - Departing Micklegate Bar Museum
York at the time of Towton
10.30am, £4 adult, £3 concession
Join a YAT historian for a guided introduction to Towton-era landmarks in York. See the remains of the city's great religious houses, tour the infamous sites where the heads of the king's enemies were put on display, and visit the reputed final resting-place of one of Towton's fallen leaders. Please be prepared to walk long distances, up and down stairs and across busy roads. Sturdy footwear and outdoor clothing recommended. Pre-booking essential: 01904 615505
York Mansion House
Fatal Colours, with George Goodwin and Tim Sutherland
3pm, Admission price TBC (includes a copy of ‘Fatal Colours' by George Goodwin)
In the splendid setting of the state room at York Mansion House, hear two contrasting views of the greatest battle in English history. Historian George Goodwin will present his major new study of the battle, a gripping account based on original documents and new research, and battlefield archaeologist Tim Sutherland will provide a fascinating insight into the excavation of Towton mass graves and the ongoing work to interpret the site. Pre-booking essential: 01904 615505
Public contact: To find out more about any of the Battle of Townton events, please call 01904 615505
Press contact: David Scott, Tel: 01904 543426, email: dscott@yorkat.co.uk
The Lord Mayor's Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday 23rd April, 10am until 3pm (participants to start no later than 12.00)
Collect your treasure sheet from JORVIK, £1.50 per child (includes admission to the Mansion House for each child and accompanying adult).
Set out from JORVIK on a city-wide quest for chocolate. Solve the puzzles to visit six differ rent locations around the city, with a treat at each stop! Includes free entry to Micklegate Bar Museum for children (£1 for each accompanying adult).
Public contact: For more information please call 01904 615505.
Press contact: David Scott, Tel: 01904 543426, email; dscott@yorkat.co.uk
York Castle Museum
Shine - Metalwork
21 April, 10.30am - 11.30am
Learn how to clean and care for objects made out of metal. Learn how to identify different metals and explore hallmarks and meanings.
£5 per person. To book, telephone 01904 650333.
Public contact: For more information http://www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk/
Press contact: Lee Clark, Media Co-ordinator, Tel: 01904 687673, email: lee.clark@ymt.org.uk
National Railway Museum
York Open Studios
1 - 3 April and 8 - 10 April 2011
Free admission
Calling all art lovers! In celebration of its 10th anniversary, York Open Studios is hosting three contemporary art projects, inspired by the railways at the National Railway Museum. Full of imagination, the projects include a trail of ‘imagined' railway objects, a film named ‘Imagining Wildlife' and a plaster frieze using objects from the workshop at the Museum. Intrigued? Challenge your perceptions, come along and find out more.
Japan Festival
9 - 24 April 2011
To mark the 10th anniversary of the National Railway Museum receiving the Japanese Bullet Train experience live music and martial arts every day during the Easter holidays. Make your own origami Bullet Train, dress up in Kimono's and enjoy a rare opportunity of cab access to the iconic Shinkansen, the only Bullet Train outside Japan.
Public contact: For more information, visit http://www.nrm.org.uk/, telephone 08448 153 139 or email nrm@nrm.org.uk Press contact: Emma Rodgers, Tel: 01904 686262 Email: emma.rodgers@nrm.org.uk
DIG
Francis Drake's Pirate Challenge
Monday 11th April - Sunday 24th April
10.30am - 4pm, normal admission prices apply
Celebrate the launch of the Swash Channel Wreck exhibition by testing your Tudor pirate skills in a series of fiendish challenges. Have you got what it takes to be the scourge of the seven seas? Come to DIG to find out and to be in with a chance of winning a family visit to the Legoland Discovery Centre! Suitable for all.
Public contact: To pre-book a visit to DIG, call 01904 615505.
Press contact: David Scott, Tel: 01904 543426, email; dscott@yorkat.co.uk
Merchant Adventurers' Hall
Art at the Adventurers'
11, 13, 20 April
11am - 3pm, normal admission prices apply
Be inspired by a building which has stood in the centre of York for over 650 years. Imagine what the Merchant Adventurers' Hall may once have looked like. Design a personal coat of arms or guild banner. Create a portrait with a difference or take part in a memory challenge! Spaces limited, visitors may be required to wait.
Wedding Fair
Sunday 17th April
11am - 3pm, Free
Join the team at the stunning Merchant Adventurers' Hall for a Spring Wedding Fair and be inspired for your special day with the variety of wedding experts on hand to help plan a wedding to remember.
Public contact: For more information please call 01904 615505.
Press contact: David Scott, Tel: 01904 543426, email; dscott@yorkat.co.uk
Quilt Museum and Gallery
Precision Piecing with Philippa Naylor
Friday 1 April, 10am-1pm
£15 plus small materials cost
Get booked up quick for this fantastic Half-Day 'Precision Piecing' workshop with brilliant Tutor Phillipa Naylor.
This workshop is suitable for all levels of skill. As Philippa describes, it includes, "extensive discussion and demonstrations on fabric selection, rotary cutting, accurate sewing and pressing enables students to make a perfectly sized ‘no points lost' block and never be frustrated again! Patterns provided."
Sewing Machine Workshops (both days)
Wednesday 13 April and Thursday 14 April
10am-12.30pm (Workshop 1) and 1.30pm-4pm (Workshop 2)
For visitors aged 7-15 yrs £7.50 per person, per workshop
Join the Quilt Museum this Easter holidays for two new sewing machine workshops run by friendly resident Faciliators Sarah and Hilary. Book single workshops for a full day but remember to book early!
Fabric Fun for Families
Friday 15 April and Friday 22 April
11am-1pm and 2pm-3.30pm
Join the Quilt Museum for their popular holiday drop-in workshops. These fun, simple workshops are designed to get the whole family making projects from recycled fabrics. With plenty of friendly helpers, visitors will finish the workshop with lots of new sewing skills and an exciting project to take home!
Places allocated on a ‘first-come, first-served' basis on the day.
Public Contact: Email info@quiltmuseum.org.uk or visit http://www.quiltmuseum.org.uk/
Press Contact: janrae@ednet.co.uk
National Centre for Early Music
JAZZ
Friday 1 April 2011 at 7.30pm
Paul Baxter Trio
Tickets: £8.00, Concessions £6.00
Paul Baxter double bass, composer Johnny Tomlinson piano Kristoffer Wright - this most sophisticated and skilful group, comprised of some of the British jazz scenes rising stars, will be performing music from their debut album 'Evolution'. An impressive combination of great improvisation and strong melodic compositions, reminiscent of EST and Avishai Cohen.
http://www.latemusicfestival.org.uk/
FOLK
Monday 11 April 7.30pm
Spiers & Boden
Tickets: £14.00, Concessions £12.00
John Spiers and Jon Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground. They are loud and proud at the forefront of 21st century folk, with just a few acoustic instruments (Boden's fiddle, guitar and foot percussion, Spiers' melodeon and concertina) they create a multitude of textures around an inspired choice of traditional story songs and dance tunes.
http://www.spiersandboden.com/
FOLK
Thursday 14 April 2011 at 7.30pm
Heidi Talbot
Tickets: £13.00, Concessions £11.00, Students £5.00
Heidi Talbot's 2008 CD, ‘In Love and Light', propelled her into the spotlight and set her on a path that celebrated her traditional influences. Heidi has toured extensively with Eddi Reader and Drever-McCusker-Woomble and her new album, ‘The Last Star', has been nominated for two BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards for best ‘Traditional Track' for Willy Taylor and ‘Folk Singer of the Year'.
JAZZ
Saturday 30 April 2011 at 7:30pm
The Snake Davis Band
Tickets: Adults £17.00, Concessions £15.00
Snake Davis is well established as one of the UK's leading saxophonists and in demand from some of the biggest names on the British Popular music scene. Seen regularly on TV with the Eurythmics, MPeople and B*Witched, Snake and resident saxophonist on ‘Tonight with Jonathan Ross' he has also recorded and toured with Lisa Stansfield and M-People.
Public contact: For more information and to book tickets, please call the Box Office on 01904 658338 or visit the website at http://www.ncem.co.uk/
York Theatre Royal
York Musical Theatre Company present...
The Slipper and the Rose: The Story of Cinderella
12-16 April, Main House
Tickets £14-18, family tickets £45
Featuring all the charm and magic of the original story, this beautiful musical version of the classic fairytale Cinderella surprises the audience with many unexpected twists and turns.
Nominated for two Oscars, two BAFTAs and a Golden Globe for Best Original Song Score, this enchanting production includes songs such as Suddenly it Happens, Once I Was Loved and I Can't Forget the Melody. Come and enjoy the magical adventure for yourself...
Shappi Khorsandi and Jon Richardson
19 April, 7.30pm, Main House
Tickets: £14 (Stalls & Dress Circle), £12 (Upper Circle) £10 (Gallery) £7 u25s & NUS (Upper Circle & Gallery)
One of the hottest comedy prospects in the country, Shappi is feisty, flirty and effortlessly funny handling every subject with a razor sharp wit. Star of Live At The Apollo, Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow, Friday Night with Jonathan Ross, and Have I Got News for You and Radio 4's Shappi Talk.
Funny Magnet sees everyone's favourite young grumpy man, Jon Richardson, return to the stage. Embracing his misanthropy, the show features the best bits from his sold out, critically acclaimed Edinburgh show ‘Don't Happy Be Worry' as well as some brand new material. Discussing the everyday items that have a profound effect on his outlook, Richardson takes his audience on an eclectic journey from cheating footballers to decapitated alligators.
Stacey Kent Quintet Raconte-Moi
20 April, 8pm, Main House
Tickets : £15-19
World-renowned American jazz star Stacey Kent makes a rare UK appearance to celebrate the release of her latest Blue Note album "Raconte-Moi" ("Tell Me").
Voted best jazz vocalist at the 2001 and 2002 BBC Jazz Awards, she was also a 2009 Grammy nominee. Stacey's love for both Brazilian music and the classics of the American songbook is present on Raconte-moi.
Birmingham Royal Ballet
22 - 23 April, Main House
Tickets: £12-£20, students and u25s £7
One of Britain's leading ballet companies' shows off its extraordinary diversity in performances that feature a selection of highlights from our favourite classical ballets, including the witty and engaging family treat La Fille mal Gardée and The Dream. This beautiful and breathtaking montage is followed by George Balanchine's Slaughter on Tenth Avenue, a crazy 30s comedy; its humour and vitality provide sparkling entertainment
Chekhov's Shorts
28 - 29 April, 7.45pm, Studio
Tickets: £12, £7 students & u25s, £10 concessions
European Arts Company presents a hugely entertaining collection of classic one-act farces by Anton Chekhov. Including The Evils of Tobacco, The Dimwit, The Bear, Swan Song and The Proposal, this is Chekhov at his comic best, before Uncle Vanya started shooting, The Seagull got stuffed, The Cherry Orchard was ‘carparked' and The Three Sisters started moaning. Chekhov wasn't all doom and gloom...
Public contact: To find out more information about what's happening at York Theatre Royal in April or to buy tickets, visit http://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/ or telephone 01904 623568. You can also find full listing of the season on the website or by picking up a season brochure.
Press contact: Rebecca Storey, Press & Media Manager, York Theatre Royal, Tel: 01904 550149, Email: Rebecca.storey@yorktheatreroyal.co.uk
Grand Opera House
Dave Spikey Tour 2011 . "Words Don't Come Easy"
9 April, 7.30pm
Inspired by the amazing audience reaction to his deconstruction of song lyrics in his "Best Medicine Tour" combined with his fascination with the vagaries of the English Language , Dave's hilarious new show examines many more situations in life where words really don't come easy .
Sally Morgan - Psychic Sally on the Road
14 April, 7.30pm
Fresh from her new TV Series - ‘Psychic Sally On The Road' on LIVING TV, Britain's best loved celebrity psychic, Sally Morgan returns by overwhelming public demand.
York Stage Musicals present
Jesus Christ Superstar
18-23 April
Inspired by the political and personal struggles between Judas Iscariot and Jesus Christ, this spectacular musical follows the last week of Jesus' life, beginning with the preparations for his arrival in Jerusalem and ending with his crucifixion.
Lenny Henry in Cradle to Rave: A Musical Journey
29 April 2011, 7.30pm
Cradle to Rave is the brand new one man show from Lenny Henry, fresh from his award winning stint in Northern Broadside's Othello. Lenny returns to his roots with a funky, funny and touching show about the thing he loves most: music. Cradle to Rave is a musical journey, exploring the role that music has played and will play at every stage of Lenny's life from the womb to the tomb.
Currently recommended age 12+ (please check back nearer the show date for more definite information)
Public contact: To find out more about what's on in April and for a full list of productions and show or to book tickets please visit http://www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk/ or Tel: 0844 847 2322
Press contact: Celestine Dubruel, email: celestinedubruel@theambassadors.com or Tel: 01904 678711
York Designer Outlet
York Designer Outlet Fashion Fortnight
Friday 8 April - Friday 22 April
York Designer Outlet is holding a fashion fortnight to show off all the latest trends and looks for this Spring from the stores in the centre. There will be trend consultations for customers on the weekends including live trend fashion shows and great advice about updating your wardrobe for the season from our team of personal stylists. In addition, shoppers will be able to get a further 10% off loads of products during the fortnight with our "Temptation Card". The event is open to all and no booking is necessary. The temptation card will be available online at http://www.yorkdesigneroutlet.com/ and to pick up in centre before the event.
Public contact: Please contact Sally Gilbank 01904 682705
Press contact: Rain communications ( Imogen Fry) 0207 8280118
Yorkshire Air Museum
Cobweb Vintage Car Run
9 April
A gathering of around 20 vintage cars, all 100 or more years old. A day of motoring
nostalgia.
Thunder Day!
17 April
Once again, the Blackburn Buccaneer will be thrilling the crowds with a live engine run. Hear the thunder as this Cold War ‘veteran' is powered up live on the museum's historic site. A fantastic opportunity to see and hear the aircraft at close quarters.
Public contact: Visit http://www.yorkshireairmuseum.org/ or telephone 01904 608595
Press contact: Ian Richardson, email: pr@yorkshireairmuseum.org, Tel: 01904 608718 / 07740 992 832.
North York Moors
Springtime at Thornton-Le-Dale Health Walk
Sunday 3 April, 1.30 pm - 3.30 pm
Join Assistant Ranger Kelvin Young on a 2 mile springtime circular walk along the banks of Thornton Beck to the tiny hamlet of Ellerburn before returning along a quiet, minor road overlooking the valley. This walk is free but donations are welcome. Starts from Thornton-le-Dale car park. Booking is essential.
Snowfields, Glaciers and Lakes Health Walk
Sunday 3 April, 1pm - 4pm
Voluntary Ranger Tony Auckland takes walkers back to a time of glaciers, snowfields, lakes and the sudden appearance of a 250 feet gorge. So wrap up warm, it's bound to be chilly on this 4.5 mile walk. Tea and biscuits at Osborne Lodge on return. This walk is free but donations are welcome. Starts from Osborne Lodge, East Ayton. Booking is essential.
A Wild Daffodil Walk Health Walk
Wednesday 6 April, 11am - 1:30pm
Voluntary Ranger Chris Bush leads this 3.5 mile walk following the River Dove past an isolated Quaker burial ground before eventually crossing the river and stopping for lunch at Dale End bridge then returning through woodland and fields all interlaced with a patchwork of wild daffodils. This walk is free but donations are welcome. Starts from Lowna car park, Farndale. Please note this walk can be very muddy in places. Booking is essential.
Beyond Heartbeat
Sunday 10 April, 11am - 4.30 pm
Voluntary Ranger Dave Perry leads an 11 mile walk away from the crowds of Goathland to explore the nearby moorland. Here you will find a Roman road, a remote shooting house, ancient standing stones and the opportunity to learn about moorland management and much more along the way. Cost: £2.50 per adult. Starts from Goathland National Park car park. Booking is essential.
Tree-Shirts
Monday 11 April, 2pm - 3.30 pm, The Moors National Park Centre, Danby
Cost: Child: £5.00. Minimum Age: 5. Booking essential
Join our activity leader in collecting leaves from around the grounds to use in printing your own personalised tree-shirt.
Tree Spirits
Monday 11 April, 10.30 am - 12.30 pm at The Moors National Park Centre, Danby
Cost: Child: £4.00, Minimum Age: 5. Booking essential
An opportunity to discover some of the ancient beliefs surrounding the beautiful trees with a short walk around Crow Wood. Use materials that have been collected in the woods to help make a personalised tree fairy, tree spirit or green man mask to take home.
Dry Stone Walling
Tuesday 12 April (at Sutton Bank National Park Centre) and Wednesday 13 April (at The Moors National Park Centre, Danby) both days 10.30am to 4pm.
Cost: Adult: £12.50, Child: £10.00. Minimum Age: 12. Booking essential
Come and learn the ancient skill of dry stone walling with Ranger carl Cockerill. This is an introduction to building with limestone, which runs along the southern edge of the North York Moors National Park. Bring a packed lunch or visit the tea rooms
From Out of the Earth
Thursday 14 April - Tuesday 26 April
As winter turns to spring, from out of the earth comes an abundance of nature depicted in the beautiful expressions of forms and colours from painter Sue Fenlon, textile artist Judith Reece and ceramist Jill Christie. Takes place at The Moors National Park Centre's Inspired by... Gallery in Danby. Entry is free and the gallery is open daily from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm.
Bird watching for beginners
Friday 15 April, 10.30 am - 12pm at The Moors National Park Centre, Danby
Cost: Child: £4.00. Minimum Age: 6. Booking essential.
Do you want to learn how to identify the most common birds in the National Park? Come along to our fun family session and let us introduce you to some of our local birds. Follow up the bird watching session with simple art activities.
Family Navigation
Thursday 21 April, 10.30am - 12.30pm and 1.30pm - 3.30pm at The Moors National Park Centre, Danby.
Cost: Child: £4.00. Minimum Age: 8. Booking essential.
An introduction to navigation especially for families. During the session our activity leader will intrdouce OS maps and how to follow a bearing using a compass. The compass activity will take place outdoors.
Easter Egg Explorers
Friday 22 April- Monday 25 April at Sutton Bank and The Moors National Park Centres
Both Centres are open from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Cost: Child: £2.50.
Drop in and take part in our egg trail. The animals in the National Park have mixed up their eggs and need you to work out which eggs belong to whom. Be an intrepid eggsplorer and use a map to locate the eggs and match them to the correct animal.
Sutton Bank - A Story Millions of Years Old
Tuesday 5 April, 7.30pm - 8.30pm at Sutton Bank National Park Centre
Free admission
Ten thousand years ago glaciers retreated from the North York Moors leaving behind the dramatic feature of Sutton Bank, but its story really began millions of years ago. Geomorphologist Brian Sweeney will guide you on this journey to discover the awesome geology and landscape evolution of Sutton Bank's inland cliff and the surrounding area, including Hood Hill and Lake Gormire. Brian will lend his entertaining style to this topic which will ensure an interesting talk.
Wondrous Windy Pits Walk
Sunday 10 April, 10.30am - 4pm, leaving from National Park Authority offices, Bondgate Helmsley
Free admission
Prepare to be fascinated as the mysteries of the windy pits are revealed by National Park Archaeologist Graham Lee. These networks of limestone fissure caves emit intriguing flurries of air from within. Find out about their formation, importance for nature conservation and tales of their curious uses in the past. This walk will visit four windy pits. Walkers should be physically fit as the walk includes some steep ascents.
Lime and Ice Legends - Puppet Workshop
Wednesday 20 April, 10.30 am - 12pm or 2pm - 3.30 pm at Sutton Bank National Park Centre
Cost: Free. Minimum Age: 5
Are you a fan of 'Lord of the Rings' or 'Merlin'? Do you like listening to stories and myths? Join us for a puppet workshop where you will watch and listen to the local legend of the 'Devil and Sir Scriven'. Our activity leaders will then help you to make your own theatre and puppets to use in a story of your own creation. Please note that there are two separate sessions.
Public contact: For more information or to book an event, telephone 01439 772738.
Press contact: Rachel McIntosh, Communications Officer - North York Moors National Park Authority, Tel: 01439 770657 Email: r.mcintosh@northyorkmoors-npa.gov.uk
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal
Abbey Tours
Friday 1 - Saturday 30 April
Daily 11am, 1pm & 2pm, Normal admission applies
Join a tour to discover fascinating facts and stories about the Abbey and monks. Meet at Porter's Lodge.
Mr Aislabie's Garden Tour
Friday 1 - Saturday 30 April, Daily 1.30pm
Normal admission applies
Enjoy a guided tour taking in the grand design of the Georgian landscape including Deer Park and Water Garden.
Friday 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 April
St Mary's Church Tour, 11am
Take a free tour of the richly decorated Victorian High Gothic church designed by William Burges. Meet at St Mary's Church.
World Heritage Site Tour
Saturday 9 April, 10.30am-1pm
Normal admission applies
Find out what makes Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal a World Heritage Site. Meet at the Visitor Centre. Outdoor footwear recommended.
Easter School Holiday Fun - Spring Flowers
Saturday 9 - Monday 25 April, 11am-3pm
Normal admission applies
Free trail and drop in self-led activities for children.
Medieval Industry Tour
Sunday 10 April, 11am
Normal admission applies
Join a tour to find out about the industrious English Cistercians. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
It's a Monk's Life
Wednesday 13 - Thursday 21 April (every Wed, Thu & Fri only), 2pm
Normal admission applies
Join us for a family tour of the Abbey. Dress in monks' robes and learn about their daily life. Suitable for 7s and over. £1.50 per child. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Deer Walk
Wednesday 13 April
2pm-4pm
Come and spot the 500 Red, Fallow and Sika deer that live in the Medieval Park. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
The Aislabie's Deer Park Tour
Saturday 16 April, 11am
Normal admission applies
Join a guided tour to discover more about the Aislabie's Deer Park. Including: St Mary's Church, Studley Hall, the Lime Kiln, the deer, the ice houses and a visit to the Valley of the Seven Bridges. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Woodland Wander
Saturday 16 April, 2pm-4pm
Normal admission applies
Discover the beauty of the springtime trees and woodland on a guided walk. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Amusing Stories
Monday 18 April, 2pm
Normal admission applies
Come and have a laugh! Stories for 4-9 year olds at Swanley Grange. £1.50 per child. Booking essential, tel: 01765 643166.
Good Friday Service
Friday 22 April, 3pm
Normal admission applies
An ecumenical service in the Abbey. Everyone welcome.
Fountains in Spring
Saturday 23 April, 11am-1pm
Normal admission applies
Spring has sprung! Come and celebrate on a guided walk around the estate. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Cadbury Easter Fun
Sunday 24 & Monday 25 April, 11am-4pm
Normal admission applies
Easter trails, chocolate ‘eggheads', face painters, story-telling, and a Cadbury play area. Meet at Swanley Grange.
Easter Egg ‘Eggsploits'
Monday 25 April, 2pm
Normal admission applies
Bring your decorated hard boiled eggs for our annual best decorated egg and egg rolling competitions. Meet on the Abbey west green.
Public contact: For further details on all events, telephone 01765 608888.
Events running throughout March and April 2011
DIG
Shipwrecks
All spring and summer
10am - 5pm, DIG, St Saviourgate, normal admission prices apply. Exhibition opens 12th March.
Visit DIG to see the amazing remains of the Swash Channel wreck, which dates from the Tudor era, and find out how archaeologists uncovered an amazing 400-year-old merman. Plus find out how marine archaeologists find and preserve discoveries from under the sea at sites around Britain.
Public contact: For more information please call 01904 615505.
Press contact: David Scott, Tel: 01904 543426, email; dscott@yorkat.co.uk
National Railway Museum
Driver, Draughtsman, Cleaner, Clerk: Running Britain's Railways
Until 15 May 2011
Free admission
An intriguing new exhibition in Search Engine, telling the personal, human stories behind the railway workers who built and ran Britain's railways and the jobs they did. These will be illustrated through photographs accompanied by the documents and objects they needed to do their day-to-day work. Take this opportunity to see un-seen items of the collection and find out ways you can look into your own family history and search for railway ancestors through the Search Engine facilities.
Public contact: For more information, visit http://www.nrm.org.uk/, telephone 08448 153 139 or email nrm@nrm.org.uk Press contact: Emma Rodgers, Tel: 01904 686262 Email: emma.rodgers@nrm.org.uk
York Dungeon
The York Dungeon invites you to delve into the city's most horrible history. Come face to face with live actors, experience interactive shows and special effects as you're transported back to those black, bleak times...are you brave enough to face 60 minutes of York's dark past?
New from Easter 2011 - Gladiators of York
Cower in a world of dust and blood as you are hurled into the human horror circus of the Gladiator arena. Now you must decide, fight to your glorious death or perish in pathetic defeat in the jaws of the beast or at the end of your combatant's blade. Will you survive . . .?
Public contact: Visit http://www.thedungeons.com/ or tel: 01904 632599
Press contact: Krissi Neal, Tel: 01904 464012, Email: Krissi.Neal@merlinentertainments.biz
York Art Gallery
Exhibition
Bigger Trees Near Warter by David Hockney
12 February until 12 June 2011
York Art Gallery
Free
10am-5pm
David Hockney's painting Bigger Trees Near Warter, on loan from Tate, is the largest painting the artist has ever produced. Featuring two copses, a huge sycamore tree, buildings and early flowering daffodils, the painting comprises of 50 individual canvas panels and takes inspiration from a site at Warter in the Yorkshire Wolds. This exhibition is the first time the painting has been seen in Britain outside of London.
Public contact: For more information visit http://www.yorkartgallery.org.uk/
Press contact: Lee Clark, Media Co-ordinator, Tel: 01904 687673, email: lee.clark@ymt.org.uk
Yorkshire Museum
York Observatory
Observatory Open Days
Every Saturday 11.30am - 2.30pm, Free entry
Gaze upon the stars in what is the oldest working observatory in Yorkshire.
You'll be finding out about the galaxy in one of the most historically important astronomy centres in the country.
The observatory was built in 1832 and 1833 and its 4in refractor telescope was built by York man Thomas Cooke in 1850 before he went on to make the then-largest telescope in the world. York played a crucial role in the development of astronomy in the 1780s when York-based astronomers John Goodricke and Edward Piggot laid the foundations of the study of stars of varying brightness.
Public contact: For more information visit http://www.yorkartgallery.org.uk/
Press contact: Lee Clark, Media Co-ordinator, Tel: 01904 687673, email: lee.clark@ymt.org.uk
Visit York Press Contact Details:
Kay Hyde, PR Manager, Visit York Tel: 01904 554451 Email: kh@visityork.org,
Katie Porter, PR Executive, Visit York Tel: 01904 554436 Email mailto:sl@visityork.org
Public Contact Details:
York Visitor Information Centre Tel: 01904 550099 or visit http://www.visityork.org/ for details of all events happening in and around York.