Bathgate's Regal Theatre unveils new programme

Jan 21 2010 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

A NEW season of entertainment will hit the stage of Bathgate’s Regal Theatre this spring.

“Live at the Regal” are smaller, more intimate gigs, being held in the Cafe/Bar, showcasing some of West Lothian’s best homegrown talent.

The first event will be held on January 29 at 7.30pm, when Angela Musk and Flip Banshee will be performing.

Tickets are available priced £5.

Following her sell-out performance last year, singer Lena Martell will return to Bathgate next month.

Lena has recorded 30 albums, hosted her own TV show and performed on Broadway and in London’s West End.

According to Sir Sean Connery, she is “the best singer not to record a Bond soundtrack.”

Sure to sell out again, Lena takes to the Regal stage on Friday, February 5, at 7.30pm.

The Counterfeit Bee Gees have been described as “as close to the real thing as you can get” and are set to bring their take on the Gibb Brothers’ repertoire to the Regal on February 6.

Formed in 2004, they have toured all over the world performing all the major hits including ‘Tragedy’, ‘Night Fever’, ‘Jive Talking’ and ‘Staying Alive’.

Fans of Take That can also enjoy a tribute to their heroes next month.

Take That Maniaare a top-qualityproduction with polished dance routines andtight vocals.

This energetic feel-good show is guaranteed to have you singing along and dancing in the aisles when it hits Bathgate on Saturday, February 13.

A humorous and often poignant snapshot of the pervasive sectarian divide that persists in the West Of Scotland – that’s how ‘Singin’ I’m No’ A Billy He’s a Tim’ is described.

What could be worse for a Celtic fan than being locked up in a police cell on the day of an Old Firm match?

For Tim, there is one thing worse – finding himself banged up with Billy, a fervent Rangers supporter.

Des Dillon’s hugely entertaining comedy takes our two protagonists on a journey of self-discovery and exposes the nature of bigotry and sectarianism in Scotland.

The play is at the Regal on Thursday, February 18, at 7.30pm.

Regarded as one of the finest Queen tribute acts, Magic – A Kind Of Queen, will appear in Bathgate on February 19.

They do not attempt to portray Queen visually, but allow their musicianship and harmonies to create their own masterpiece.

Magic have performed all over the world, from Gorky Park in Moscow to the London Palladium.

Later in the month, Bathgate Rotary will present its zone finals of Young Musician Of the Year.

The event, on February 26, is well worth attending to see local musical talent at its best.

The following night, why not dust down your platforms, put on your flares and get ready to sing along with all of your Abba favourites.

Abba-Cadabra will present their show and versions of all of Abba’s songs with dazzling showmanship, stunning costumes, specially-choreographed dance routines and hilarious banter.

Go along and party on Saturday, February 27, at 8pm.

‘Annie’, the magical musical classic, will be brought to the Bathgate stage by Bathgate Youth Theatre.

Stuck in an orphanage presided over by the bullying Miss Hannigan, 10-year-old Annie dreams of finding parents and happiness.

The show will be staged from Tuesday, March 9, to Saturday, March 13, at 7.30pm with a Saturday Matinée at 2.30pm.

Millions of music fans around the world enjoyed the hits of The Platters, one of the most successful groups of the early rock and roll era.

Now many more will enjoy their music as the fantastic Magic Platters pay tribute with their fabulous live show.

The set includes ‘Only You’, ‘I’m Sorry’ and ‘Smoke Gets In Your Eyes’ on Friday, March 19, at 8pm

Join Troy Bolton and Gabriella Montez for a rollercoaster ride through all your favourite ‘High School Musical’ hits.

This fully choreographed, musical extravaganza will have you dancing and singing along to all the hits.

Bring along your cheerleader pom poms on Saturday, March 20, 6.30pm.

‘The Rat Pack Is Back’ is Britain’s longest-running tribute to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr.

This show perfectly captures the legendary personalities, comedy and wonderful music of the originals with songs including ‘My Way’, ‘That’s Amore’ and ‘Mr Bojangles’.

They are backed by the fabulous Don Hunt swing band and special guests the Vegas Showgirls.

See the show on Sunday, March 21, at 7.30pm.

For tickets or information contact the box office on 01506 630085.