The Albany Theatre Opens The Curtains On Their Most Ambitious Programme Yet

The beautiful Art Deco gem in the heart of Coventry, The Albany Theatre, is looking forward to a busy spring season with an ambitious and diverse programme of events alongside the opening of their new studio space.

The Studio, part of The Albany's commitment to Coventry communities and their Arts for Life initiative, aims to host accessible and diverse work in a new, flexible and more intimate performance space for both local groups and professional companies.

Housed in the East Wing of the iconic building, the programme launches on Thursday 1 March with an opening event supported by local performers and attended by Coventry music legends Neville and Christine Staple as patrons.

"I am so glad to hear that The Albany Studio is now ready for action, to become a beautiful place for art and music in our great City. Having places like this are so important and help stop areas becoming a 'ghost town!'" jokes the former Specials frontman, Neville Staple

The theatre's main house is also expanding their programme with a mix of dance, drama, music and comedy throughout March.

Friday 23 March sees John Challis of BBCs Only Fools and Horses fame host an evening of anecdotes and chat in Only Fools and Boycie. The show offers a unique and intimate insight from over 50 years of performing alongside some of the greats of TV and film

"I'll be talking through some of the most famous episodes. I'll also reveal a few surprises from my 50+ years in showbusiness, like the time I turned down The Beatles after they'd asked me to appear in one of their films. And do you know, I still regret that to this day." Explains John

The Albany is also playing host to a brand-new musical with roots very definitely anchored in the past: Crooners is a rip-roaring comedy musical that combines humour and big band swing. The show sees one-time Manchester City, Wrexham and Northern Ireland midfielder Jim Whitley, hang up his boots and make the step-ball-change into theatre.

"My footballing feet have stood me in good stead over this transition from football to theatre and I certainly put them to the test in Crooners - I have an extended Fred Astaire inspired tap dance routine during the show that is the absolute highlight of my performing career." Says Jim

Crooners plays for just one night only on Thursday 29 March.

There's more to discover about events and opportunities at The Albany from the website www.albanytheatre.co.uk including details of all forthcoming shows in both the theatre and studio.