Far From the Madding Crowd

Capricious, independent and beautiful Bathsheba Everdene inherits and manages her uncle’s farm. She is courted by three infatuated suitors: an honest, loyal and capable shepherd; a womanising and charming Sergeant; and a lonely, wealthy farmer. Who will she choose? If any of them? She plays with all their hearts to devastating and dramatic effect.

Far from the Madding Crowd demonstrates live, vibrant theatre at its very best.

Thomas Hardy’s masterpiece about love, class and gender roles is set against the rural landscape of Victorian England and is thrillingly brought to life in a new adaptation by the acclaimed Conn Artists Theatre Company, performed by an ensemble cast accompanied by music and songs of the period.

“a riveting example of ensemble theatre at its very best.” ★★★★★

(The Argus on Silas Marner)

“strong, vivid and emotional story telling.” ★★★★

(Remote Goat on Silas Marner)

“Conn Artists has made regional theatre feel in ruder health overnight.” ★★★★

(The Stage on The Four Men)

Marina Comedy Club – June 2025

*15.05.2025 Update Sam Picone replaces Michael Shafar in the Line Up*

With Ria Lina, Joseph Emslie, Sam Picone and hosted by Russell Arathoon!

 

Headlined by the brilliant Ria Lina! Ria  is a touring comedian, actress and writer and has been named as one of The Evening Standard’s ‘Hottest Comedians You Should Be Watching Now’. Her extensive list of credits includes guesting and hosting Live At The Apollo (BBC), Have I Got News For You (BBC), QI (BBC), Mock The Week (BBC), The News Quiz (Radio 4), The Now Show (Radio 4), Late Night Mash (Dave), and star of Lovestruck High (Amazon Prime).

 

Ria is a regular co-host of Pointless (BBC), winner of Celebrity Mastermind (BBC) (Topic: Rosalind Franklin), cohost of Yesterday, Today & The Day Before (Comedy Central), cohost of Richard Hammond’s Brain Reaction (Comedy Central) and has been seen on occasion in Countdown’s Dictionary Corner (Channel 4). She is also a regular pundit on Sky News, BBC News, and Times Radio and is in demand for her scientific insight, confident delivery, political satire and biting wit.

 

Ria is the only Filipina comedian in British stand-up and has a BSc in Experimental Pathology, an MSc in Forensic Science and a PhD in Virology under her belt, so it’s not only Ria’s comedy that’s highly intelligent.

 

Ria has taken six shows to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with her work tackling topics such as autism, motherhood, political correctness, feminism and racial identity. Her career stretches from stage and screen to radio and the occasional ukulele – all in a unique style described by ‘The Scotsman’ as ‘fearless, provocative and very funny’.

 

Ria completed her debut UK and IRE tour, Riawakening, in 2024, which the Telegraph selected as one of the ‘10 best comedy shows and stand-up tours to book tickets for in 2024’.

 

Opening the show is Sam Picone! Described by UK comedy heavyweight Mo Gilligan as “a natural on stage”, Sam Picone is a London based comedian, writer & content creator. Expect sharp observations, delivered with a knowingly dry wit. He’s written on comedy shows for Channel 4, the BBC and has racked up tens of millions of views on social media with his viral sketches.

 

Next up is star of Channel 4’s The PaddockJoseph Emslie! His easy conversational manner, anecdotal, and sometimes self-deprecating, style of comedy has helped him secure some early critical acclaim by taking the runner up place in the Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year 2021.

 

 

Hosted by Russell Arathoon!

 

Please note, that while we do our best to ensure that we deliver the published bill, line-ups can be subject to change at short notice.

 

Menopause the Musical 2

Starring Carli Norris (Doctors, Hollyoaks, Eastenders), Maureen Nolan (The Nolans), Rebecca Wheatley (Casualty) and Daniele Coombe (West End Star), we present the final UK tour of the smash-hit Menopause the Musical 2Cruising Through Menopause. In this hilarious sequel to our sell-out hit Menopause the Musical®, we fast forward five years to catch up with the same four characters for tales of their lives, loves and losses as they set off on the high seas.

Hot flushes, mood swings, memory lapses and weight gain Cruising Through Menopause is truly funny, heartfelt and reassuring look at the “joys” of menopause. When your life is a bumpy ride full of twists and turns, it’s hard to find and keep true friends.  But step on board and we’ll take you on a trip of self-discovery, love and friendship all backed by a soundtrack of hysterical parodied hits!

For these four ladies the menopause was not the beginning of the end, but the beginning of a beautiful friendship where love conquers, and friendships never fail.

So, all aboard and we’ll have you laughing and maybe even crying, as you join us for Menopause the Musical 2 – Cruising Through Menopause.

Join us on Facebook at “Menopause The Musical UK Tour”

Age advisory 16+

Between Head & Heart (15) + Q&A – 3pm till 4:30pm

Immerse yourself in the poignant and compelling narratives with our touching strand of short films entitled ‘Between Head & Heart’.

This special collection features three powerful short dramas that explore the emotional and psychological landscapes of LGBTQ+ individuals, delving into their struggles, triumphs, and the journey to find love.

About the Films: ‘Between Head & Heart’ presents a trio of deeply moving LGBTQ+ short dramas, each offering a unique perspective on the complexities of identity, love, and self-acceptance. These films shine a light on the emotional challenges and societal pressures faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Through powerful storytelling and compelling performances, these short dramas will resonate with audiences and foster empathy and understanding.

The short films screening in this Strand are: Sister Wives, Salt Line & Sunset’s Embrace.

This Screening will end with a Q&A where we will be joined by filmmakers from some of the screening films.

This Strand is rated: 15, No one younger than 15 may see 15-rated content.

Additional Information: Please note parking is not available on-site. The nearest car parks are at Clapham Road South or Whapload Road, Lowestoft Train Station is a 5-10 minute walk from the Marina Theatre.

The age rating has been set by our local authority as a guide and content may not be suitable for all audiences in this screening, viewer discretion is still advised.