There’s a rich programme of performing arts at Blackwood Miner’s Institute in spring 2017.

The acclaimed Chickenshed presents the powerful The Absence of Silence on February 9 and on February 22 the stirring Daredevil Rides to Jarama commemorates the 80th anniversary of the International Brigades.

A rip-roaring comedy adventure inspired by the horror movies of the 1950s comes to Blackwood on March 14 and Undermined on March 17 explores the humour and struggles of the 1984 Miners’ Strike through energetic and gripping storytelling.

Burton, the powerful play that vividly presents the life of the great Welsh actor Richard Burton and starring Rhodri Miles (Game of Thrones, Eastern Promises, Atlantis) comes to The ‘Stute on April 19.

Young people and families always have plenty to enjoy at Blackwood Miners’ Institute and this spring is no exception. On February 20, The Flying Bedroom is an adventure to far-off lands based on the children’s book by Heather Dyer.

Three days later (February 23), award-winning Story Pocket Theatre tell exciting stories of brave knights and the search for the Holy Grail in King Arthur.

The Bear is a heart-warming wintry tale for young people and families on March 11, based on the book by Raymond Briggs (The Snowman).
Later in the month, comedy magician Christian Lee (as seen on CBBC’s The Slammer) presents POP! on April 1 and a brand new version of the classic legend Jason and the Argonauts stops off on April 13.

From Risca Male Choir’s evening of songs from the musicals on January 14 (featuring special guests Duality) to an incredible tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons – Big Girls Don’t Cry on April 22, The ‘Stute has hand-picked a programme of music delights.

The season features not one, but two, tributes to Elvis Presley. On
January 27 and 28, the electrifying Gordon Davis performs everybody’s
favourite hits and February 25 sees the The Definitive Elvis Experience
encapsulate all eras of “The King”.

Showaddywaddy replays classics like Under the Moon of Love, Three Steps to Heaven plus many more on February 10. Legendary songwriter Burt Bacharach is celebrated in Back To Bacharach on March 2 and Michael George’s London Varieties – featuring Duncan “Chase Me” Norvelle – is an extravagant night of music, comedy and entertainment on March 18.

The Denmark Street Big Band (March 25) is a highly esteemed swing and jazz orchestra, chiefly made up of former military musicians from the
ranks of the Coldstream, Welsh and Scots Guards. The James Taylor and
Carole King back-catalogue is explored with great warmth and respect in
You’ve Got a Friend on 30 March.

Comedy is always popular at The ‘Stute. One of Wales’ finest comedians Mike Bubbins presents all his best bits so far on February 17 and one of the UK’s finest comedy performers Tim Brooke Taylor is in conversation with Chris Serle on March 21.

If that’s not enough then retired police detective Trevor Marriott presents startling new evidence and facts in Jack The Ripper – The Real Truth on March 16.

For more information on any of the shows or to book tickets, call Blackwood Miner’s Institute box office on 01495 227206 or visit blackwoodminersinstitute.com.