Culture and comedy shows take centre stage

Jan 8 2009 by Mark Smith, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

A CLASSICAL piano concert and comic capers from one of the country’s top comedians are two of the highlight’s of the Brindley’s winter season.

First up are two shows from the Bentley Operatic Society on January 30 and 31.

Renowned for its interpretations of the works of Gilbert and Sullivan, the society promises to showcase its versatility by including the works of other popular composers such as Johann Strauss.

There will also be a selection of Gilbert and Sullivan classics including The Pirates of Penzance, The Mikado and The Gondoliers.

Both shows start at 7.30pm and tickets are £5.

Also on January 31, Russian pianist Alexander Karpeyev will be joined in concert by the by the Northerly Winds music group.

In a show presented by the Halton Operatic Society, classical music lovers can expect pieces from Beethoven, Damase and Taffanel.

The evening ends with Karpeyev’s solo performance of a Liszt masterpiece, in what organisers say will be an opportunity for him to showcase his “sparkling and mature talents which have already dazzled informed London audiences”. Tickets are £10.

Dublin-born comedian Ed Byrne promises to be one of the season’s highlights when he comes to the venue on March 5.

The Perrier Award-nominated comedian has chalked up six gigs at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and is a regular guest on shows such as 8 Out of 10 Cats, Mock the Week and Never Mind The Buzzcocks.

Byrne was originally pencilled in for last November, but was forced to postpone so he could appear on Jack Dee’s Live at the Apollo TV show.

The Brindley gig starts at 8pm and tickets are priced at £15.

Tickets for all events can be booked on 0151 907 8360 or at www.thebrindley.org.uk