Status – Open to all members
| Status: | Active, open to new members |
| Coordinator: | |
| When: | Depends on the Outing |
| Venue: | Location Varies |
About
If you love the thrill of live performance, the Theatre Group is your front-row seat. Open to all members, we enjoy a wide-ranging programme that can include musicals, plays, comedy, concerts, cabaret, murder mysteries, ballet and opera with the occasional dining or variety show thrown in for good measure. There’s something for every taste, and we’re always happy to take suggestions for future outings. We make getting there easy too. Coach travel is usually organised from Melton, and for local performances we may call on volunteer drivers to share their journey.
New shows are promoted via group-wide emails, here on the website, U3a social media channels and the monthly members’ newsletter, so you’ll never miss a curtain call. All you need to bring is your enthusiasm and maybe a love of applause.
How to Join?
We operate as an open group, giving all members the opportunity to join us on any of the theatre trips offered. If you are interested in any of the shows being promoted - Contact Mandy theatre@u3ameltonmowbray.org.uk or Phone/Text 07702 103281
Essential Companion Scheme / Access Register
Most theatres offer some kind of access scheme which is designed to assist customers with additional needs. The theatre store information on your personal requirements so that you don’t need to resubmit documentation each time you book. Once registered, you will be eligible for a FREE COMPANION TICKET with the standard ticket you purchase for each show.
To support your application, they request evidence of one of the documents listed below. The document you choose to submit should ideally be the most recent copy, dated within the last 18 months.
A Typical List of Documents Proving Eligibility for a Scheme:
Blue Badge Permit
Disabled Persons Railcard
Disabled Persons Bus Pass
National Disability Card
Access, CredAbility or Nimbus card
Cinema Exhibitors’ Association (CEA) card
A letter of support from a Care Professional, Doctor, Therapist or other Healthcare Professional
Certificate of Visual Impairment (or Vista Card for audience members living in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland)
Equipment Supplies Book
WPMS (War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement)
Attendance Allowance Letter
Disability Living Allowance Letter
Disabled Students Allowance Letter
Personal Independence Payment Letter
This list is subject to change, and all venues reserve the right to refuse concessionary tickets where it deems necessary. All seating and accessibility requirements are subject to availability.
If you would like to register onto the scheme, We have application forms for The Curve, Theatre Royal & Concert Hall, Kilworth House Theatre (not eligible for dining events in the orangery) and The Motorpoint Arena.
These schemes are generally adopted by most show promoters and theatre bookings through Melton Mowbray u3a can be arranged. Speak to us for further help on joining up to see how the scheme can benefit you and a buddy to enjoy what’s on offer for less.
Shows & Reports
JUST FOR ONE DAY - THE LIVE AID MUSICAL
Curve Theatre Leicester
Matinee Performance
Saturday 10th April 2027
Cost £86 incl coach travel from Melton
Discover the fascinating story behind the most epic gig in music history and be part of Live Aid’s 40-year legacy of great music for a great cause. Just For One Day is characterized as both a theatrical experience and a concert all rolled into one transporting the audience back to the day rock n roll changed the world. Featuring hit songs by Bob Dylan, David Bowie, The Who, U2, Queen, Madonna, Sting, Elton John, Paul McCartney, Diana Ross and more. As performed by an electrifying ensemble full of bonafide rockstars, these iconic songs have been theatrically re-imagined. This electrifying show captures the unforgettable spirit of Live Aid and is packed with iconic 80s anthems you’ll struggle not to sing along to.
MISFIT PRODUCTIONS’ ADULT PANTOMIME
Snow White and the Seven Horny Miners
Grantham Guildhall
February 2027
Tickets approximately £40
An outrageously cheeky twist on the classic fairy tale!
Expect glitter, glamour, double entendres, and plenty of laughs.
NOT FOR THE EASILY OFFENDED
Reserve your spot now
Adam Garcia's EMERALD STORM
Theatre Royal Nottingham
Monday 16th November 2026
7.30pm Performance
Tickets £62.50 incl coach travel from Melton
If Riverdance and Stomp had a baby - it would be Emerald Storm. Direct from the West End, Emerald Storm is the electrifying new dance phenomenon from Adam Garcia, the acclaimed stage and screen star behind some of theatre’s biggest hits. Fusing the fire of Irish dance with the grit of urban tap, this high-octane production explodes with rhythm, passion and pure spectacle.
BRIAN BILSTON - How to Lay an Egg with a Horse Inside
Mountsorrel Memorial Centre
Wednesday 14th October 2026
7.30pm Performance
Own Transport
Tickets are selling fast for this new listing to MMC. To avoid disappointment, we suggest you contact the MMC box office direct to secure your place.
Box office open 10am – 2pm Mon-Sat to purchase over phone no booking fees apply
Tel: 0116 230 4877
Online bookings https://www.mmcvenue.co.uk/ booking fees apply
Ticket prices –
Under 65’s £21 + £1.76 booking fee
Over 65’s £17.50 + £1.76 booking fee
HANS ZIMMER
Nottingham Albert Hall
Saturday 10th October 2026
7.000pm Performance
Own Transport
Please contact Mandy if you are interested in tickets for this proPlease contact Mandy if you are interested in tickets for this production and confirm your preference for seating, and if you are able to offer a car share. Depending on the numbers of interest, a mini-coach can be arranged with shared costs. The duration of this show is 1 hour 10 minutes.
Ticket prices from £45 - Discounts available
Contact Mandy – theatre@u3ameltonmowbray.org.uk
JANE McDONALD Living the Dream UK Tour
Motorpoint Arena Nottingham
7.30pm Performance
Tuesday 8th September 2026
Cost Approx £65 self travel from Melton
The tour follows Jane’s 11th studio album, recorded in Nashville, which features nine originals and four Country classics, showcasing her signature vocals and love of Country music.
ANYTHING GOES
Kilworth House Open Air Theatre
Thursday 23rd July 2026
2.30pm Performance
Cost £80 incl coach travel from Melton
Set aboard the luxurious ocean liner S.S. American, Anything Goes is a madcap musical comedy brimming with mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and high-seas hijinks. When nightclub singer Reno Sweeney boards the ship bound for London, she finds herself entangled in a tangled web of love triangles, disguises, and outrageous schemes involving a lovestruck stowaway, a debutante, her eccentric fiancé, and a gangster posing as a minister.
One Man, Two Guvnors
Tolethorpe Hall
Sunday 19th July 2026
Matinee performance 2pm
Cost £27.75
Own Transport
Set in Brighton in 1963, this high-energy slapstick comedy follows the hungry and hapless Francis Henshall, who takes on two jobs at once to earn enough money for food. Unbeknownst to him, both his employers are hiding dangerous secrets and false identities. As Francis struggles to keep his two guvnors apart, chaos, disguises and misunderstandings spiral into a fast-paced farce packed with laughs, inspired by The Servant of Two Masters. This amateur production of “One Man Two Guvnors” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd.
THE CHOIR of MAN
The Curve Leicester
Saturday 11th July
Matinee show 2pm
Cost £71.50 incl coach travel from Melton
Direct from the West End, the Olivier Award-nominated, worldwide smash hit is now on its first ever UK tour. Welcome to THE CHOIR OF MAN, the best pub in the world… Brimming with hits from artists such as Queen, Luther Vandross, Sia, Paul Simon, Adele, Guns & Roses, Avicii and Katy Perry to name but a few, this is a pub like no other. A wildly talented group of incredible instrumentalists, world-class wordsmiths, and sensational singers, this cast of nine (extra)ordinary guys serve it all… live
Twelfth Night
Tolethorpe Hall
Sat 13th June 2026
Matinee 2pm
Cost £27.75
Own Transport
Twelfth Night is a lively Shakespearean comedy set in Illyria, full of love triangles, disguisesand practical jokes. After a shipwreck, Viola disguises herself as a boy, Cesario, and serves Duke Orsino, who sends her to court Olivia on his behalf. Olivia instead falls for Cesario, while her household becomes entangled in a cruel prank against the pompous Malvolio. The arrival of Viola’s twin brother Sebastian sparks further confusion, leading to comic chaos and a joyful resolution.
The Bodyguard the Musical
14th May 2026
Our latest theatre trip took us to see The Bodyguard - The Musical, and what an unexpectedly brilliant afternoon it turned out to be. Even those who arrived unsure of what they were about to watch, especially members who hadn’t seen the original film, left thoroughly delighted by the performance.
For those who had seen the film, there was a moment of collective head‑scratching. Several confessed they couldn’t remember the dramatic scene involving Rachel Marron’s sister being stabbed, prompting a few to vow to dig out their old DVDs for a nostalgic re‑watch.
The show itself was described as very professional, fabulous, and far better than expected. The lead role was performed by the understudy, whose voice was nothing short of outstanding. In fact, the entire cast delivered vocally - powerful, polished, and worthy of a standing ovation.
One member felt the opening was a little slow, though she admitted she hadn’t seen the film before, so the story took a moment to settle in. Once it did, she was fully absorbed.
Reactions to the seating were mixed, a lady on Row Q found the legroom a little tight, while others were perfectly happy with their view and comfort.
As always, members commented how much they enjoyed the performance and the matinee showing time.
A thoroughly enjoyable Thursday afternoon, filled with great music, great company, and a show that exceeded expectations. Brilliant seats, brilliant voices, and plenty of conversation for the journey home.
Burlesque & Cabaret Night in Nottingham 26APR26
Our April theatre group visit to the Theatre Royal, Nottingham proved to be an evening full of feathers, laughter, glamour, and more than a few conversations about nipple tassels on the journey home!
The sell-out Burlesque and Cabaret Show attracted a lively crowd, with many younger audience members filling the theatre and bringing plenty of energy to the evening. For several of us, it was our very first experience of burlesque, and the general consensus was clear - “Something different!”
The show offered a colourful variety of entertainment, including comedy, magic, dance, and classic cabaret routines. The comedic magician was a particular favourite, keeping the audience laughing throughout with wonderfully silly humour and quick wit. One member described it perfectly as “great Sunday entertainment.”
Of course, no burlesque evening would be complete without the famous spinning nipple tassels, which caused much fascination among our group. There were many unanswered questions on the night, including:
- “How do they move in opposite directions?”
The apparent answer: practice… and probably strong core muscles. - “Where can I buy XL nipple tassels?”
Sadly, there were none on sale, leading to genuine disappointment among some attendees!
The can-can dance was another highlight, full of high kicks, cartwheels, splits, and infectious energy. Originating in the lively dance halls of Paris, the can-can remains one of the great symbols of cabaret performance and female liberation, and it certainly brought colour and excitement to the stage.
Some audience members appreciated the lighter, modern approach, while others reflected on the deeper traditions of European cabaret. One thoughtful comment noted that classic 1930s Berlin cabaret was often darker, more daring, politically charged, and delightfully outrageous. Compared with those smoky and rebellious performances of old, Nottingham’s version perhaps felt a little more safe. Another attendee suggested the production “Could have been a little raunchier,” and missed the inclusion of male performers often seen in French and German cabaret traditions.
That said, everyone agreed the variety kept the evening entertaining throughout. There were, naturally, a few memorable moments, including one sailor-themed act, we labelled as ‘the weakest link’ of the night who failed to stay aboard his anchor.
“Different from anything we’ve seen before. Not sure it was aimed at old ladies like us!” Remarked one pair of sisters.
Yet despite the occasional raised eyebrow, the feedback remained overwhelmingly positive:
- “Excellent show!”
- “Very different.”
- “Full of variety.”
- “I thoroughly enjoyed it.”
- “Glad I came, thank you.”
Perhaps the greatest success of the evening was that it introduced many of us to a style of theatre we had never experienced before. Burlesque may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it certainly gave us an unforgettable evening of glamour, laughter, sequins, and spirited discussion on the coach journey home.
And who knew theatre trips could lead to such serious debate about tassel technique?
An Afternoon of Musical Excellence at De Montfort Hall
29 March 2026
A small group of theatre members recently enjoyed a memorable visit to De Montfort Hall, where the Leicester Symphony Orchestra was joined by the remarkable pianist Dominic Piers Smith for a performance of Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 2.
Dominic Piers Smith is a particularly fascinating performer, having spent over two decades balancing an extraordinary dual career as both a Formula One aerodynamicist and a concert pianist. His artistry at the keyboard, paired with the rich sound of a full orchestra, made for an exceptional musical experience.
With several members kindly volunteering to drive rather than arranging coach travel, the group benefited from a highly cost-effective and well-organised outing. Discounted tickets and car sharing ensured the afternoon was not only culturally enriching but also excellent value for money.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Many commented on how rare it is to experience a full professional orchestra without travelling to a major city, making this trip especially worthwhile. The organisation of the event was widely praised, with particular appreciation for the thoughtfully selected seating, which offered excellent views and comfort throughout the performance.
The venue itself also received glowing remarks, with members noting the character and charm of De Montfort Hall, along with its consistently good sightlines and atmosphere. The car-sharing arrangement proved both practical and efficient, further enhancing the overall experience.
Above all, the performance left a lasting impression. Attendees described the concert as “superb,” “fantastic,” and “a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon,” with many expressing enthusiasms for similar trips in the future.
This successful outing highlights the value of well-planned group events and the shared enjoyment they bring. Plans for future concerts and cultural visits would undoubtedly be warmly welcomed.
Big Dick Whittington Adult Pantomime 12th February 2026
Guildhall, Glitter and Glorious Indecency
On a drizzly damp evening that began with dignity and sensible footwear, 25 members of our theatre group and their equally curious guests swept into the handsome surroundings of Grantham Guildhall ready for culture.
We had secured excellent seats for Big Dick Whittington, courtesy of the gloriously unhinged Misfit Productions. What unfolded can only be described as our most outrageously side splitting, innuendo crammed adventure yet.
From the first wink to the final wiggle, the production ran at full throttle with more sass and smut than ever before. Glitz glittered. One liners flew like champagne corks. Vocabulary surfaced that would have made your nan reach for the smelling salts and the parish newsletter simultaneously.
At the helm of the hilarity was the towering dame Penny Trayshion, a hurricane of lashes and latex, partnered with the irrepressible Hugh Gaggin to work the audience in that classic interactive style. Think satire, slapstick and splendid gender bending chaos, all served piping hot. The atmosphere was gloriously topsy turvy. Fairy tales were twisted, flipped and lightly toasted.
We were guided through rats, dames, disaster and drama by the unforgettable Fairy Busty Bells, strutting with heels high and standards playfully low. Fishy, Dick’s fiercely loyal pussycat, led the raid on the rats with feline ferocity. Iona Belvoir demonstrated talents as a master stuffer that defy polite description while Phil McCrackin, a sailor with a heart of gold rounded out the mayhem.
A particularly clever underwater scene drew genuine admiration from our party. Through lighting, staging and a dash of theatrical wizardry, we were plunged beneath the waves without a single soggy programme. A rare moment of collective awe before the next tidal wave of double entendres crashed ashore.
The finale saw cast and audience united in a rousing rendition of Sweets Wig Wam Bam, complete with changeable lyrics and a full auditorium singing with reckless enthusiasm. It was chaotic, joyous and the perfect curtain call.
One final note for the record - we shall never see clucking chickens the same way again.
In the aftermath, opinions flowed almost as freely as the double entendres. Several declared it good honest fun, while others pronounced it bonkers but absolutely brilliant and, without hesitation, absolutely fantastic. More than one member described it as a great night out and confessed to enjoying a much-needed belly laugh. A flurry of four-letter verdicts echoed in the foyer, with Wild, Epic, Daft, Hoot and Racy capturing the mood succinctly. There were acknowledgements that it was over the top with a lot of swearing and perhaps a little obvious in places, while one brave soul offered a diplomatic no comment, which felt entirely in keeping with the spirit of pantomime. All agreed, however, that we had great seats in a beautiful theatre with a lovely atmosphere.
ABBA Voyage London - 10th January 2026
A Saturday of Music, Memories and a Little Adventure
U3A members and friends were treated to a truly unforgettable day out on our recent trip to ABBA Voyage in London, organised by G and G Coaches.
The legendary Swedish pop supergroup, who dominated the charts in the 1970s with their catchy melodies, harmonious vocals and unmistakable style, were brought back to life in spectacular fashion. Set in 1979, the show featured the band as highly realistic, computer-generated “ABBAtars”, performing on stage with a ten-piece live band using the group’s original recorded vocals.
At first, it felt a little unusual applauding between songs for digital performers rather than real people, but any initial strangeness quickly faded. The visuals were so convincing, and the atmosphere so electric, that it was easy to be swept away by the magic.
The arena buzzed with excitement as we sang and danced along to ABBA’s iconic hits, songs we all know, love, and have probably hummed for decades. It was a joyful celebration of music, memories, and shared nostalgia.
The journey itself was part of the fun, with picnics on the coach helping to pass the time in good spirits. On the return journey, however, our adventure took an unexpected turn when the coach developed a clutch problem. Limping off the A1 and finally coming to a halt near the Rutland Showground, we found ourselves temporarily stranded.
Fortunately, rescue arrived quickly in the form of another coach, and we were safely transported back to Melton a little later than planned, but in good humour and with plenty of stories to tell.
All in all, it was a fantastic day out. A superb concert, a wonderful atmosphere, and a chance to experience a truly innovative way of enjoying live music. A perfect way to spend a Saturday and proof that ABBA’s music still has the power to get us all dancing.
Step into Christmas - Nottingham 23 December 2025
A Night of Music Merriment and Sparkle
Two days before Christmas, 15 of our members did exactly what the show promised and well before the turkey went in the oven we stepped into Christmas.
The evening began in style with our brand-new, plush coach, which immediately set the tone for a rather special night out. Being dropped right at the doors of the concert hall was an added bonus, no chilly walks, no navigation debates, just a smooth arrival worthy of the festive season.
Inside, it was clear that Step into Christmas is a long-running favourite with a loyal following. The venue was packed to the rafters, buzzing with anticipation and Christmas cheer. The concert itself delivered exactly what it said on the box: a joyful musical journey through classic hit songs from the 60s to the 90s, all performed with energy, flair and just enough nostalgia to have everyone singing along. And sing along we did. Every word remembered. Every chorus enthusiastically joined.
Our members agreed that the atmosphere was wonderfully uplifting, a true feel-good experience that instantly put everyone in the Christmas mood. The sing-along spirit quickly spilled into the aisles, where dancing was embraced with enthusiasm and absolutely no regrets.
Seating was described as spot on, both in the stalls and the dress circle, offering great views and plenty of opportunity to soak up the festive fun. The only regret of the evening came with hindsight, not realising that Christmas sparkle was very much the dress code in spirit. There were a few wistful comments about missed opportunities for glitter, flashing necklaces and statement earrings. Next time, the sequins will not be left at home.
Overall verdict? Most enjoyable, great fun and thoroughly entertaining. A fantastic night out enjoyed by all 15 members, filled with music, laughter and Christmas cheer. Festive joy in a bottle.
Murder at the North Pole - Kilworth House - 21st November 2025
Murder, Mystery & Mince Pies at Kilworth House
Our latest Theatre Group adventure saw sixteen super sleuths climb aboard the coach on a chilly November eve, to Kilworth House for a dining murder mystery event. As we arrived, we were greeted by the twinkling allure of Christmas tree lights adorning the gardens. The beautifully decorated orangery warmly welcomed us in; a perfect setting to unravel “Murder at the North Pole.
Fortunate for some and unfortunate for others, sadly three members had to cancel a few days beforehand due to illness, but their places were soon filled from the reserve list at a moments notice. The final spot being snatched up unexpectedly by our coach driver, Martin.
We took our seats at two tables and instantly became rival investigative gangs. Poor Jack Frost had been dispatched with suspicious enthusiasm, as each team started to unravel the clues to unmask the killer.
The food was plentiful and delicious, so naturally the sleuthing slowed whenever plates arrived. The dining detectives scribbled their findings, unravelling the clues, and connecting the dots all whilst composing a limerick as part of the competition – of which we were the runner up table!
Members declared it an amazing night. Many are already dreaming of a return visit, perhaps something Agatha Christie flavoured or a sultry jazz luncheon. Whatever next year brings, it seems a dining event is absolutely on the cards.
As we prepare to showcase more thrilling theatre events, keep an eye on the U3A website, Newsletter and social media for more theatrical adventures. We are always eager to hear your suggestions for future performances.
Fascinating Aïda - Loughborough 28 October 2025
A Night Out with the Fearless, Fabulous, and Ever-Fascinating Aïda!
There are some nights out that simply sparkle and our recent U3A trip to see Fascinating Aïda positively glittered with wit, music, and mischief.
Armed with good humour, a sense of adventure, and perhaps a quiet hope for a polite evening of gentle cabaret; we were swiftly disabused of that notion within minutes of curtain up!
For over forty glorious years, Dillie Keane, Adele Anderson and Liza Pulman have been Britain’s queens of cabaret, bold, brilliant, and deliciously bawdy. And oh, how they proved it once again. From the opening number to the final encore, the trio delivered an evening of razor-sharp satire, musical wizardry, and more double entendres than you could shake a cocktail stick at.
Those who’d previously chuckled over Dogging, sung along to Cheap Flights or winced and laughed at their infamous rude Christmas song were in their element. The rest of us were swiftly converted, possibly corrupted, and definitely entertained.
It wasn’t all naughtiness and nudge-nudge, mind you. Beneath the laughter lay moments of real poignancy and political bite, all wrapped up in exquisite harmonies and wicked timing. These women are, quite simply, masters of their art, still fierce, still fearless, and still utterly fascinating.
By the time the curtain fell, our cheeks ached from laughter, and our spirits were soaring. The verdict from our merry U3A band? A unanimous “Encore!”
If you ever get the chance to see Fascinating Aïda in the flesh, grab it with both hands and possibly a small gin. Just don’t bring your maiden aunt.
Magic Mike - London 22 October 2025
U3a Ladies Go Magic Mike Adventure
It started, as these things often do,
With a ping in my inbox, something too good to be true.
“Magic Mike Live!” Oh, mercy me,
A show of men, muscles, and pure energy!
“This one’ll sort the brave from the meek,
The daring, the curious, the girls with a cheek.”
An invite went out, responses were slow,
But the bold few winked, “Go on then, let’s go!”
From Grantham we travelled, the train our stage,
With giggles and gossip and a certain age.
To King’s Cross we sped, with hearts aflame,
Ready for mischief and not a bit of shame.
First stop, Harrods! Oh, what delight!
Chocolates, perfumes indulgence in sight.
Christmas gifts, truffles, and fragrance galore,
We sniffed, and we sampled till feet were sore.
Then onwards we trotted, the Ham Yard in line,
For lunch that was lush and a glass of fine wine.
We dined with style, such glamour, such grace,
And right next to Damian Lewis! We kept a straight face!
He smiled so sweetly, so debonair,
We toasted our luck “Oh, what flair!”
Then off to the Hippodrome oh, what a thrill,
The night awaited and we’d time to kill.
ID’s in hand, we queued with a grin,
Security checked us “Arms out, ladies, in!”
One frisk was offered, another declined,
But poor Mandy sighed “Oh, never mind…”
She’d hoped for a pat-down with twinkle and charm,
But alas, no frisking, no man on her arm!
Past blackjack tables, bright lights and flair,
We queued two by two excitement in air.
Into the lair of Magic Mike we strode,
Our courage intact and modesty… erode.
Front row, they told us front row indeed!
We settled right in “Oh Lord, take the lead.”
Lights dimmed low, the music began,
And out strutted Marcus the fireman man!
Uniform shining, smile so wide,
He made a beeline to our side.
With a wink and a grin, he climbed astride,
Oh heavens! Our pulses nearly died!
Who was chosen? We’ll never say,
For what happens on tour… must stay that way.
A lap was straddled, hearts went wild,
Oh, we were shocked, but pleasantly riled!
Buttons flew open, shirts hit the floor,
And some of us gasped, “Good Lord there’s more?!”
There were flips, there were splits, there were thrusts with intent,
Our virtue? Long gone, utterly spent.
They danced and twirled, those men of might,
With moves that set our souls alight.
The music pounding, the crowd in a spin,
It’s safe to say we were all in!
Another spun round, shirtless and slick,
Mandy just muttered, “I’d give him a lick.”
The laughter erupted tears down our cheeks,
Oh, the joy of these Magic Mike techniques!
The air was electric, the atmosphere soared,
Our inner goddesses loudly roared.
They mingled, they smouldered, they danced down the aisle,
We fanned our faces and blushed all the while.
Then came a twist one of our own!
Plucked from the crowd, brave and alone!
To the stage she flew oh, what a scene,
Our heroine calm, composed, serene (ish).
She danced with Marcus, with flair and finesse,
The crowd went wild we’ll never confess!
She flew the flag for Melton Mowbray’s pride,
Oh, what a moment we nearly cried!
And yet, our lips are sealed, you see,
For this tale’s locked in U3a’s secrecy.
You had to be there to know each thrill,
Each giggle, each gasp, each cheeky spill.
Too soon it ended, the night, the flow,
We gathered our coats, still all aglow.
Back to King’s Cross, hearts aflame,
Murmuring softly, “Let’s do that again!”
So, here’s to the ladies, bold and divine,
Who swapped tea for tequila, and water for wine.
For age is a number, not a chain,
And Magic Mike proved, we’ve still got game!
42nd Street 24th June 2025
A Sparkling Night of Showbiz Magic – 42nd Street at Kilworth House Outdoor Theatre
On a perfect summer evening, the theatre group set off by coach to the stunning Kilworth House Outdoor Theatre, nestled within a picturesque glade surrounded by mature trees. This enchanting setting, with the gentle evening breeze rustling the leaves and the warmth of the afternoon sun lingering, provided the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable performance of the timeless musical 42nd Street. As the evening cooled, a few among us wrapped up in cosy blankets, but nothing could dim the excitement in the air.
42nd Street is the ultimate backstage musical - a glittering tale of ambition, determination, and the magic of the theatre. The story follows Peggy Sawyer, a young and talented chorus girl from small-town America who arrives in New York with big dreams. When the leading lady is injured, Peggy steps in at the last minute, soaring from chorus girl to star. It’s a heartwarming celebration of resilience, talent, and the sheer joy of performance.
From the moment the curtain (or rather, the treetop canopy) metaphorically rose, the audience was dazzled. The stage burst to life with an explosion of colour, sequins and, most memorably, the rhythmic thunder of tap shoes. The choreography was nothing short of spectacular. The precision and energy of the tap numbers had toes tapping and spirits soaring across the audience. The iconic title number “42nd Street” was delivered with such dazzling flair it brought goosebumps and thunderous applause.
The cast was superb, delivering flawless vocals, boundless energy, and a clear passion for the show. Every performer shone, and the sense of camaraderie was infectious. The glitz, glamour, and old-school Broadway charm were brought to life in every scene, with slick costume changes and artistic set pieces that seemed even more magical beneath the open sky.
All 26 members of our theatre group agreed, it was a fabulous evening from start to finish. The combination of a first-class production, the charming outdoor theatre nestled amongst the trees, and the perfect weather made for an utterly memorable experience and enthusiasm for future theatre events.