Here's a press release from Royal Museums Greenwich.... Cutty Sark, the world’s sole remaining tea clipper and major London landmark, is set to launch a brand new performance space on Wednesday 29th January 2014. The lower hold, where precious cargoes of tea and wool were stacked over a century ago on Cutty Sark’s famous voyages, now features a remarkable studio theatre. During the daytime, the hold contains displays of tea chests and other artefacts relating to the ship’s extraordinary history. In the evening, the central section is transformed into an eclectic 85-seat studio theatre, which is totally unique and provides the perfect platform for cabaret, comedy, music, special lectures and small scale-drama. The brand new Michael Edwards Studio Theatre will welcome renowned performers and personalities, whilst also nurturing the talent of the local area. “Our aspiration is that the development of Cutty Sark as a flexible theatre space will enable us to reach out to new audiences who can discover the ship in a whole new way” says Richard Doughty, Director of Cutty Sark. “This opening fortnight sets the agenda for Cutty Sark to become a unique new venue in the heart of Greenwich and London.” The opening of the Michael Edwards Studio Theatre will be marked by a fortnight of special performances: ALAN DAVIES ‘Little Victories’ Following the sell-out success of his long-awaited return to stand up, Alan Davies brings a preview of his highly anticipated follow-up show ‘Little Victories’ to Cutty Sark. Much lauded as resident dunderhead on QI or the charming but reticent crime solver Jonathan Creek, Davies’ virtuosic story telling and whip-smart funny bones combine to make this a show not to be missed. "One of the best stand-up comics out there…. packed with deft silliness and shrewd observation." The Guardian Friday 14 February £18 15+ An Audience with SIR ROBIN KNOX-JOHNSTON An exclusive opportunity to hear from the great yachtsman, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the first person to sail single-handed and non-stop around the world. His talk will be followed by a Q&A session with the audience. Thursday 30 January £15 ROSS NOBLE An evening of improvisation with special guests Ross Noble is one of the most popular comedians of our time. A truly exciting and genuinely original performer, Noble has received huge critical acclaim for his sensational live performances and has a huge following around the world - this is your chance to see him up close in the unique setting of the ship. The show will feature Noble and top improviser Suki Webster along with special guests and will be improvisation at its very best. Friday 31 January & Friday 7 February (the first of ten weekly performances running until April 2014) £12.50 16+ KARINE POLWART Karine Polwart draws from folk music’s long tradition while keeping pace with the ceaselessly changing times. Her talent for crafting unique, enduring melodies and the range and dynamism of her arrangements come together in songs of powerful contemporary relevance. Saturday 8 February £15 MATTHEW STIRLING Mind Magic The show sceptics love to hate. Matthew Stirling is currently the only professional Magician /Hypnotist-Mentalist & Professional Stuntman in the UK. His credits include the last fiveHarry Potters, World War Z, Fast & Furious 6, Safehouse, Pirates of the Caribbean and many more. This Cutty Sark special combines elements of Mentalism and movie related mind-bending tricks. Saturday 15 February £20 16+ RICHARD HERRING’s Meaning of Life Richard Herring tries out material for his new groundbreaking internet only stand-up comedy show, which aims to answer all the big questions: Where did we come from? Is there a God? What happens to us when we die? Why is life so unfair? An opportunity to see new routines being tried out for the very first time. With support from Catie Wilkins. Wednesday 5 February £12.50 TRINITY LABAN CONSERVATOIRE OF MUSIC AND DANCE A spectacular showcase of music for solo harp and harp chamber music. Internationally renowned harpist Gabriella Dall’Olio directs this group of musicians. Wednesday 29 January £10 CORELLI COLLEGE SHOWCASE (The Reel) Macbeth Kidbrooke Theatre Company at Corelli College in Greenwich presents a comic and highly energetic interpretation that takes The Scottish Play back to its geographical roots, presenting the story through the form of the Scottish reel, Highland dancing and physical theatre. 20 minutes A short piece devised by A2 students, using the technique of verbatim theatre. Based on numerous interviews and extensive research, three young actors perform as a multitude of different characters presenting their attitudes to the school’s neighbourhood. Sunday 9 Feb £10 (under 16s £7.50) THOMAS TALLIS VARIETY SHOW Music and drama from Year 7 to Year 13 students from local Blackheath school Thomas Tallis, who recently performed at Greenwich Theatre. Tuesday 11 February £10 (under 16s £7.50)
Continues... For full programme details visit rmg.co.uk/studiotheatre Online bookings: rmg.co.uk/tickets Telephone bookings: 020 8312 6608 Tickets admit entrance to the dock and lower hold only The Even Keel Bar situated beneath the ship will be open pre-show from 6.45pm and during the interval, and will serve drinks and light snacks and refreshments. All performances start at 7.45pm.
