Basingstoke ObserverANVIL Arts has plenty of exciting shows coming to Basingstoke during February.
The Haymarket has the charming family show The Tiger Who Came To Tea from 4 to 6 February. This is a stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem, based on the book by Judith Kerr. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it be? What they don’t expect is a big, furry, stripy tiger! Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful show packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos.
The international success Spirit of the Dance celebrates 21 fabulous years with their new anniversary show (Anvil, 4 Feb). Seen by more than 20 million people worldwide, the blockbuster hit is Irish in origin and bursting with raw energy. This high octane extravaganza takes dance to the next level in an explosive fusion of Irish Dance combined with dance styles from round the world such as Scottish, Flamenco, Latin, Salsa, Street Dance, Hip Hop, Techno Can Can and American Tap.
The breath-taking dancers sound like a runaway express train as their frenzied skill and military precision sends shivers down your spine. Not one Irish dance shoe steps out of line as their thunderous feet perform as one, with an excitement that leaves audiences screaming for more.
Kerry Ellis and Louise Dearman, two leading ladies of the West End, present an extravaganza of popular musical and movie hits at The Anvil (6 Feb). Accompanied by the fabulous International Film Orchestra, they will perform songs from Wicked, Les Misérables, We Will Rock You, Chess and The Greatest Showman to name a few.
Don’t miss the amazing Kodo One Earth Tour at The Anvil on 9 Feb. Kodo take the Japanese art of Taiko drumming and give it a thrillingly theatrical edge in this new show Tsuzumi. Rhythm, tradition, and an energy so powerful that you can feel the air shake - experience the intense strength and the gentle finesse as the drummers transcend language and cultural boundaries whilst reminding us of the common bonds we share as human beings. This year, more than ever, they want to connect with their audience.
Delightfully silly and highly entertaining, Bumper Blyton and its cast of award-winning improvisers comes to The Haymarket (10 Feb) to invent a hilarious adventure, live on the hoof, based on audience suggestions. Cast yourself back to your childhood as the riotous improvised parody, chock full of innuendo and puns, is performed in vintage costume with music and songs in the style of Enid Blyton.
The dazzling production of Carmen, with live orchestra, (10 Feb) features Bizet’s breath-taking melodies including The Toreador’s Song, Carmen’s enticing Habanera, and Don José’s lyrical Flower Song. The story of passion and jealousy unfolds in a setting evoking the stunning architecture of Seville and its main square with Roman and Moorish influences. Sung in French with English surtitles.
One of the most prominent wildlife presenters and filmmakers working today, Gordon Buchanan’s journey is a remarkable story (Haymarket, 16 Feb). Gordon will look back at his incredible 30 years working both behind and in front of the camera. This will be a rare opportunity to discover what has continued to drive his career and the landmark stories that take pride of place in his work. He will also take the opportunity to look at what the future potentially holds in our rapidly changing ecological landscape.
For more information, visit anvilarts.org.uk or call the box office on 01256 844244.
