Grand Opera House, York

Grand Opera House, York
Cumberland Street, York, YO1 9SW Street map

Buy Tickets: 0844 847 1722 - or use the online links below

Spring Summer 2008 Season at The Grand Opera House, York:

Horrible Histories - The Terrible Tudors
Tuesday 22 to Saturday 26 April 2008
The popular Horrible Histories comes to York Grand Opera House with not one, but two shows! Using actors and ground-breaking 3D special effects, these astounding shows are guaranteed to thrill the whole family – historical figures and events are recreated on stage and come vividly alive in front of your very eyes using live action and mind blowing technology. The Terrible Tudors From the horrible Henries to the end of evil Elizabeth, hear the legends (and the lies!) about the torturing Tudors. Find out the fate of Henry’s headless wives and his punch up with the Pope. Survive the Spanish Armada as it sails into the audience!

Horrible Histories - the Vile Victorians
Wednesday 23 to Saturday 26 April 2008
The Vile Victorians What exactly did a baby farmer do? Can you escape the misery of the mines or the filth of the factories? Do your best to dodge the rotten railway and prepare for the Charge of the Light Brigade!

Indiana Chuckles and the Kingdom of the Mythical Sulk
Sunday 27 April 2008
In a faraway land that time forgot, the ancient treasures and mysteries of an old and forgotten tribe lay in hiding for only the brave (and the mistaken) to find...! One day Paul and Barry see a job advertisement in the paper. But they can't read the print very well as someone has spilt tomato ketchup on the article. They think it reads ‘Reward for anyone brave enough to travel’. The rest of the article is smudged and can’t be seen. Paul says: "We can do that!" Barry replied: "Oh dear oh dear, something isn't right!" And so it was that our hapless heroes set off on another adventure full of mistakes, pitfalls and danger! Guaranteed fun and thrills for all the family from 3 to 103 is promised when The Chuckle Brothers visit The Grand Opera House Theatre York - book early to avoid disappointment. Running time 2 hours including interval.

Adele
Monday 28 April 2008
Meet one of 2008’s most exciting new talents in concert on stage in York. Even before she’d released a note of music – and at barely 19 – Adele had already chalked up a Jools Holland appearance, worked with Jim Abiss, Eg White and Mark Ronson, signed to XL Recordings and supported Jack Penate, Raul Midon, Amos Lee and Devendra Banhart.

The Fiesta - Jus'
Saturday 3 May 2008
City of York Council, Arts and Culture service present a colourful showcase of dance by local groups from York. Including styles such as Bollywood, Break-dance and Ballet. Performances from special guests RJC Youth from Leeds and the premier of the York Youth Dance Company, choreographed by founder member of Phoenix Dance Theatre, Edward Lynch.

Fureys & Davey Arthur
Monday 5 May 2008
The legends of Irish Music, The Fureys and Davey Arthur, celebrate their 30th anniversary with the release of a live DVD and CD. They have tours booked on all continents where they will bring their music, songs and storeys to generations who have enjoyed them over the years. So don't miss this opportunity at The York Grand Opera House when you can hear them sing all their hits including When you were sweet 16; The Green Fields of France; The Old Man; Red Rose Café; From Clare to Here; Her father didn't like me anyway; Leaving Nancy; Steal Away; and many more.

An Evening with Gervase Phinn
Wednesday 7 May 2008
An Evening with Gervase Phinn will have you in stitches, as he shares his hilarious tales of life as a schools inspector in the Yorkshire Dales. Dubbed “the James Herriot of schools” this best selling author, Radio and TV personality is not to be missed!

David Essex
Thursday 8 May 2008
Relive the magic of David Essex live in concert at The Edinburgh Theatre Playhouse this May. Since the 70s right up to the current day, David has been a national treasure and has captured many thousands of hearts as an accomplished stage and screen star as well as a chart topping singer. This concert brings together all the favourite hits including Hold Me Close, Gonna Make You A Star and his debut hit Rock On, together with tracks from his latest album.

The Best of the Bands
Friday 9 May 2008

Danceflash 2008
Saturday 10 May 2008
The Isobel Dunn's School of Dance present a celebration of dance with performers from age 3 to 80. Please note that this is an amateur production.

Jethro Tull
Sunday 11 May 2008

Lazytown Live!
Wednesday 14 May 2008
Welcome to LazyTown Live! - The Show with Go! The funniest and freshest, award-winning show of the moment, packed with moves, music, fun and a great story, all set in this amazingly colourful, fast-paced, upside-down world. LazyTown may have the laziest name on Earth, but it's packed with action, energy and a powerful message that will energise and inspire children everywhere. Featuring an all new UK cast. Running time approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes including one 20 minute interval.

Jenny Eclair
Thursday 15 May 2008
Following a sell-out Autumn tour and the phenomenal success of Grumpy Old Women, self appointed Grumpy team captain Jenny Eclair is back on the road, with loads of brand new material. If you are going to treat yourself to a ticket to see Jenny Eclair at the Grand Opera House York Theatre, please laugh and clap very loudly, as she is a bit deaf and her hormones are all over the place. Men, accompanied or on the loose, most welcome.

Paul Merton's Impro Chums
16 May 2008
Paul Merton and his highly talented Impro Chums are wonders of nature. Impro Chums take audience suggestions and create cascades of fantastic tumbling laughter, well, most of the time!

Sing-A-Long-A Sound of Music
Saturday 17 May 2008
Your chance to sing along with Maria, hiss the Countess and boo the Nazis in this subtitled version of the classic Julie Andrews musical. So cut up that chintz, pull on the lederhosen and join in the nation's craziest communal karaoke. Sing-a-Long-a Sound of Music is a screening of the classic Julie Andrews film musical in glorious technicolour, complete with subtitles so that the audience can sing along! Please note that this production runs for 3 hours and 50 minutes including a 20 minute interval.

Simon Amstell
Sunday 18 May 2008
Simon Amstell, winner of two British Comedy Awards and host of Never Mind The Buzzcocks, comes to York as part of his UK tour. Please note that this show is not suitable for under 16’s.

Playhouse Disney Live! On Tour
Tuesday 20 and Wednesday 21 May 2008
Blast off to adventure with your favorite Playhouse Disney pals when Playhouse Disney Live! comes to the York Grand Opera House this May! Climb aboard and get ready to explore with the Little Einsteins Leo, Annie, Quincy and June on an important musical mission; say 'Meeska Mooska Mickey Mouse' and sing along with Mickey and the gang at the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse; and stop by Sheetrock Hills where Handy Manny always has the right tools for fun fix-it adventures! Get ready to laugh, sing and play along at a live show that lets kids join in on the fun!

Ken Dodd
Sunday 25 May 2008
By jove, here is an evening full of laughter and songs from comic genius and showbiz legend Ken Dodd. You are sure to be chortling all the way home!

Mr. Men and Little Miss Sports Day Fun
Tuesday 27 May 2008
A brand new Mr Men and Little Miss story featuring Mr Happy, Little Miss Naughty, Mr Bump and more favourite Mr Men characters. Sports Day Fun is a fun-filled, 90 minute show, packed with comedy, singing, dancing and built around a strong story line. It is ideal for all children aged 3 to 7 years.

Dara O'Briain
Wednesday 28 May 2008
An opportunity to catch one the most charismatic, fast talking and down right funny live performers working today. Book early to avoid disappointment when Dara comes to York this May for one performance only! Please note that this show is unsuitable for children under 15 years old as it may contain adult themes and swearing.

Volcano Head
Friday 30 May 2008
One man, one matchstick, one mission! TV's most extreme scientist (Brainiac, Blue Peter) delivers 100% pure, live, explosive science. Dr Bunhead reveals his most spectacular and outrageous experiments ever, in his quest to create a volcano live on stage. Health warning: may cause serious addiction to science! Suitable for 5 to 105 year olds.

Bob the Builder Live - Spud's Big Mess
Tuesday 3 and Wednesday 4 June 2008
Can Bob fix it? Yes he can! The lovable and iconic Bob the Builder is live on stage at The Grand Opera House Theatre in York this June in his thrilling brand new live stage show - Spuds Big Mess! Sing a-long with your favourite characters such as Wendy, Spud, Scoop, Dizzy, Scrambler and many more in this 90 minute musical stage show. Watch Bob and his trusted and hardworking team build a new eco-centre and wind farm in Sunflower Valley. Everyone pitches in to help but when items and Bob’s trusty team start to go missing can the eco-centre and wind farm be finished in time? Can Bob Fix it? Yes he Can!

Sleeping Beauty - English Youth Ballet
Friday 6 and Saturday 7 June 2008
English Youth Ballet return to York's Grand Opera House for a third. The policy of the English Youth Ballet is to perform full length productions of classical ballet in the regional theatres of the UK, and to give young dancers outside London an opportunity to perform within a professional setting. This production of the classic ballet Sleeping Beauty feature an impressive cast of up to 100 local young dancers who auditioned for the show along with international principal dancers, Julianne Rice-Oxley, Emma Lister, Kasper Cornish and Oliver Speers who dance the lead roles in a glittering and highly dramatic production of this most famous of all ballets.

York Schools Music Festival
Sunday 8 June 2008

Sally Morgan
Tuesday 10 June 2008

One Night of Queen
Sunday 15 June 2008
Since winning the 'Stars in their Eyes' Grand Final 2000, polling nearly one million votes, Gary Mullen has carved out an excellent live career for himself as the mercurial Freddie Mercury. Now, on stage in York at The Grand Opera House Theatre, Gary presents the real live Queen experience - the sound, look, showmanship, pomp, style and incredible musicianship that was the hallmark of Queen in concert. This time Freddie is not alone and the rest of Queen joins him on stage. The artists who perform as Brian May, John Deacon and Roger Taylor are also superb. Coupled with the stunning lights and the excellent musicianship this is an unbeatable show.

Noughties Dance Show
Saturday 12 July 2008
The Sara Ann School of Dancing's Annual Show - Matinee A dance show to be reckoned with! Performers from 4 years to 11 years old celebrating the current decade of music with originality, style and fun! Evening A dance show with a difference! Performers from 11 years to adult celebrating dance using music from the current decade. You won't want to miss a beat!! Please note that this is an amateur production.

Jungle Book
Sunday 13 July 2008
The Jungle Book and Return to the Forbidden Planet. Performed by Starmaker's Performance Academy, directed by Emmerdale's Daniel Coll. This amateur performance is presented by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Ltd on behalf of Music Theatre International and Disney.

Roy Chubby Brown
Thursday 17 July 2008
Roy 'Chubby' Brown - the most outrageous comedian is back! Still as popular as ever but too rude for television - if easily offended please stay away!

Attitude Reloaded
Saturday 19 July 2008
Attitude Reloaded... welcome to our world - The dance prophecy stated that 'one' would come to show the way to a Dance Utopia. That 'one' is York based dance club Attitude. Dance Architect Lesley Hill innovatively fuses a range of styles including street and contemporary with outstanding live music to bring you a spectacle unlike any other. Attitude Reloaded will challenge you to look beyond conventional performances and will immerse you in a whole new world of dance. Please note this is an amateur production.

Bugsy Malone - Live Nation Stage Experience
Wednesday 6 to Saturday 9 August 2008
Set in 1929 in New York, the era of Gang Warfare, hoodlums, showgirls, dreamers and the unforgettable 'splurge-gun'. The big city is turned into a state of chaos where double crosses and custard pies are rife. Fat Sam and his arch rival Dandy Dan battle for Top Dog status. Meanwhile newcomer Blousey Brown falls into bad company with gangster Fat Sam and his sharp tongued girlfriend Tallulah, when all she wants is fame, fortune and to go to Hollywood. Can Bugsy Malone save the day? Please note that this is an amateur production presented by Live Nation Stage Experience.

Tommy
Tuesday 9 to Saturday 13 September 2008
The Who's classic rock opera Tommy, one of the greatest albums in the history of rock is now transformed into a spectacular stage show. A Broadway and West End smash, Tommy is the ultimate British experience. Spanning three decades Tommy will take you on an amazing journey! Pete Townshend's famous score includes Pinball Wizard; I'm Free; and Sensation. Please note that this is an amateur production presented by York Stage Musicals.

'allo 'allo!
Monday 15 to Wednesday 17 September 2008
'Listen very carefully I vill say this only vonce...' This new stage production follows the hilarious adventures of René, a hapless café owner in war-torn occupied France, as he and his wife Edith, struggle to keep for themselves a priceless portrait stolen by the Nazis and kept in a sausage in their cellar. Adding to René’s litany of woes the French Resistance, led by Michelle, force him to aid their persistent attempts to return two bumbling British airmen to England – René, caught in the middle of this joyous mayhem must also keep secret from his wife his long-running affairs with two waitresses or losing his cherished café may be the least of his problems... The original production played to packed houses at the London Palladium so book early as this glorious new show is guaranteed to leave you helpless with laughter when it comes to the York Opera House Theatre this September! Starring Vicki Michelle and Jeffrey Holland.

An Evening of Clairvoyance with Colin Fry
Thursday 18 and Friday 19 September 2008

Jake & Elwood
Saturday 20 September 2008
Hailed as The Best Blues Brothers Show in the World EVER - the legendary Jake & Elwood Blues will be raising the roof with their highly acclaimed smash hit production. Expect an electrifying night of entertainment with a packed audience enjoying timeless soul and blues numbers along with new arrangements of classic numbers specifically created by the fabulous Black Rhino Band. Don't forget your hat and shades - Jake and Elwood like to see their audience dressed up and ready to PARTY!

The Mighty Boosh
Monday 22 to Thursday 25 September 2008
Two different men. One Mighty Boosh. Following the sell out success of their debut live tour, “the funniest comedy double-act in Britain,” (NME) come to the York Grand Opera House Theatre this September with their glorious mix of music and comedy. Back with a vengeance, Vince Noir and Howard Moon will be joined on stage by a profusion of characters from their hit TV show. See Naboo the Enigma dazzle with shaman magic, see Bollo the Gorilla takes on the irksome evil Cockney Hitcher and marvel at the worldly observations of the Moon… There may be punks and yetis, monsters, music and mayhem, in one terrific psychedelic melting pot. Please Note: Suitable for ages 13 plus.

That'll Be the Day
Friday 26 September 2008
Back at The York Grand Opera House by overwhelming public demand, the legendary That'll Be The Day returns with a brand new 2008 show. Established as the Nations Favourite Rock'n'Roll variety show, this all new production features classic gold hits from the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s combined with feel-good comedy routines to make this show bigger and better than ever!

Dylan Moran
Wednesday 1 and Thursday 2 October 2008
Dylan Moran, star of Black Books, Shaun of the Dead and Run Fat Boy Run is back in York at The Grand Opera House Theatre with a brand new show, What It Is. Moran's legendary stand up rants have sold out across the world cementing this unkempt wordsmith's reputation as one of the foremost comics of his generation. Please Note: Suitable for ages 15 plus.

CBeebies at the Theatre
Friday 3 to Sunday 5 October 2008
CBeebies at the Theatre is the first ever theatre adventure starring many of your favourite friends from CBeebies. Join PC Plum, Postman Pat, Jess the Cat and Tamba from Tikkabilla as we all discover the fun in recycling those everyday things that we throw away. There'll be plenty of excitement and surprises when they all come along to the Grand Opera House in York. Bursting with music, singalong songs and bags of imagination - what are you waiting for? Come on... let's play!

Buddy
Monday 6 to Saturday 11 October 2008
It's had audiences on their feet in every corner of the globe and now Buddy, 'The World's most successful Rock'n'Roll musical' is back and ready to explode on to the stage at the Grand Opera House Theatre in York in a toe tapping, hand clapping extravaganza! The show follows the tragically short life of Buddy Holly from his first recording contract through to his move to New York and concluding with the fatal tour of Mid-West America.

Flashdance
Monday 13 to Saturday 18 October 2008
Based on the Paramount Pictures film, Flashdance is an unmistakeably unique musical about holding onto your dreams and love against all the odds. The show features an iconic score including the Academy Award winning title track 'Flashdance – What A Feeling'. Set in Pittsburgh, USA, Flashdance the Musical tells the story of 18 year old Alex, a welder by day and 'flashdancer' by night, whose dream is to obtain a place at the prestigious Shipley Dance Academy. Full of pulsating raw energy and breathtaking choreography by Arlene Phillips, Flashdance the Musical promises to be the theatrical event of the year when it comes to The Grand Opera House York this Autumn – don't miss out, book now!

Voulez Vous
Sunday 19 October 2008
The So Long Tour... It's time to hang up the flares and say 'Thankyou For The Music'. After 17 years together Voulez Vous perform their final concert tour in 2008. So why not come along to the Grand Opera House in York for one last time and say farewell to the masters of the ABBA scene. Voulez Vous will have you singing and dancing in the aisles, creating two hours of pure Abba nostalgia. So dust off your platforms, put on your flares and enjoy an unforgettable night with Voulez Vous. Voulez Vous perform a non-stop barrage of Abba hits, brilliantly performed and also visually enhanced by multi-screen projection and voice over narration telling the story from Abba’s rise to stardom to their eventual split.

Paddy McGuinness
Tuesday 28 October 2008
Paddy hits the road again with his eagerly awaited brand new show 'Paddy McGuinness Plus You' which comes to the Grand Opera House in York this October. Paddy's last tour 'The Dark Side' was the fastest selling of 2006 taking in 115 sold out dates selling more than 160,000 tickets. His following live debut DVD entered the comedy charts at No 1 and has currently sold in excess of 250,000 copies. Please Note: Recommended for over 16's only.

Russell Howard
29 October 2008
Russell was nominated for The If.Comedy Award at the Edinburgh festival in 2006 and The Barry Award at the Melbourne comedy festival in 2007. Things have been pretty hectic since then. In 2007 his Spring and Autumn tours sold out before they had even begun and his sell-out Edinburgh Festival run could not add extra shows fast enough to keep up with demand. This is your chance to see Russell Howard when he comes to York as part of his Autumn 2008 Tour.

Beyond the Barricade
Thursday 30 October 2008
The UK’s leading musical theatre concert, Beyond the Barricade return’s in 2008 to the Grand Opera House York Theatre with a 'Brand New Production'. Recreating the songs, music and sound of the world's most popular musicals. This new production includes songs from the 'new shows' on the block, including Wicked, Spamalot and Billy Elliot, mixed with the major hit productions The Lion King, We Will Rock You, Chicago, Miss Saigon and many more climaxing with a spectacular finale from, of course, Les Miserables!

Frankie Boyle Live
1 November 2008
After two hugely successful sell out Edinburgh Festival runs in 2006 and 2007, Frankie Boyle brings together material from both shows for his first national tour, Frankie Boyle Live which comes to The Grand Opera House in York for one night only. With TV appearances Mock the Week; 8 out of 10 Cats; Have I Got News For You; and They Think It's All Over, Frankie is one of comedy's hottest names. Frankie takes audiences on a ride that leaves them gasping for more as well as gasping at his sheer audacity. Taboo subjects? Frankie certainly doesn’t think so.

La Boheme - Ellen Kent International
Tuesday 11 November 2008

The Lady Boys of Bangkok - Devils & Angels
Monday 24 November 2008
Combining the heady spice of Bangkok's exotic nightlife with the glamorous showgirl appeal of Las Vegas this spectacular and flamboyant show is performed by 16 of the world's most beautiful showgirls, who just happen to be men, in a glamorous and funny review show. You won't believe your eyes. East meets West and Cabaret meets spectacular West End musical as the hits keep on coming – from legendary musicals to disco divas. The sensational new production – created to mark the Lady Boys of Bangkok's tenth UK tour – features non stop hits from The Spice Girls tribute to Broadway showstoppers. The top selling show for four years at the world’s largest arts festival - the Edinburgh Fringe - this two-hour show features 200 sumptuous costumes, fantastic choreography and immaculate make up.

Swan Lake
Wednesday 26 November 2008
The Vienna Festival Ballet

Vampires Rock
Thursday 27 November 2008
Following the hugely successful UK Arena tour, Rockman Music proudly presents Steve Steinman's legendary Vampires Rock on stage at The York Grand Opera House this November. 1000 volts of explosive energy power Steve Steinman's spellbinding fantasy rock concert. Featuring over 20 stadium rock anthems performed live on stage including classics from Queen, AC/DC, Guns & Roses, Bon Jovi, Meat Loaf, Bonnie Tyler and many more. With awesome sets, state of the art pyrotechnics, heart-stopping guitar riffs and spine-shivering drumbeats, Steve Steinman's Vampires Rock is the No.1 Rock Spectacular!

Mostly Autumn
Friday 28 November 2008
Mostly Autumn return to their home town in the heart of autumn to perform a breathtaking audio visual concert at The Grand Opera House. This award winning band have received stunning reviews in Mojo, Classic rock, Guitarist magazine, the Independant and many more and this promises to be a very exciting time for this York band. Bob Harris is championing them on Radio 2 and last year Bryan Adams invited them to open for him at Murrayfield stadium on the last day of his European tour.

Blood Brothers
Monday 1 to Saturday 6 December 2008
Willy Russell's musical Blood Brothers returns to The Grand Opera House York for a one week season this December. Blood Brothers is a tale of twins, separated at birth, who grow up as friends one rich, one poor: without knowing their family background. Told with gentleness, darkness and joy it is at one time hilarious at the next heartbreaking. Few musicals have received such acclaim: scooping four awards for Best Musical and enjoying standing ovations at almost every performance over the past 12 years. Although its greatest strength is its Englishness it was nominated for 7 Tony awards. A remarkable adult cast play the group of children that we watch grow, learn, love and fight.

Jack and the Beanstalk
Friday 12 December 2008 to Sunday 4 January 2009