It is that time of the month once again where we look ahead to the next month at what is on in our city’s fantastic arts venues. At the time of writing, all of the events I have included below have ticket availability, though obviously this may well have changed by the time you read this post.
In our fantastic city, there are always a lot of shows on every month for to choose from, many in different price brackets, and so I include a Table of Contents immediately below so you can have a quick look at all the events covered, and jump straight to the venue/show you are most interested in. I include a link to each venue’s What’s On page. On this page you can find all of the shows listed with ticket booking information, as well as information about shows coming up further into the future. You may notice that some of the events noted in this list have a coloured background on their write up, this denotes shows that are free of charge, though many still require booking to guarantee your place.
While there are fewer events on this month than usual, because many venues “go dark” (i.e. do not have any shows on) over the summer, I am still including a list of all the venues and shows here so you can jump straight to your favourite venue, or the show that interests you.
- Birmingham Hippodrome
- Symphony Hall
- Nils Frahm on 2 July at 7.30pm
- Music For Youth’s National Festival on 4 – 6 July at various times
- Free Jazz Fridays: Tomorrow’s Warriors x Music for Youth Takeover at Centenary Square on 5 July at 5pm
- Services for Education: Youth Proms 2024 on 8 – 11 July at various times
- Free Jazz Fridays: Nick Dewhurst Band – Fusion Line Quartet on 12 July at 5pm
- Anton DuBeke and Giovanni Pernice: Together on 12 July at 7.30pm
- Stand By for Action! 2: Gerry Anderson in Concert on 13 July at 7.30pm
- Workplace Voices Summer Concert on 16 July at 7pm
- Nashville Sounds in the Round: Gasoline & Matches, Paris Adams, Harleymoon Kemp & Preston d. Barnes on 18 July at 7.30pm
- Naseebo Lal: The Queen of Melody on 20 July at 7.30pm
- Cirque on 27 July 3pm
- Live at B:Eats Summer Series: Teveil Walker on 31 July at 1pm
- Birmingham Town Hall
- CBSO Centre
- The Alexandra Theatre
- The Crescent Theatre
- BOA Presents Exhibition on 2 – 3 July 7.30pm
- Alice Through the Looking Glass on 5 – 6 July at various times
- The Little Mermaid on 12 – 14 July at 7.30pm
- The Trying Rooms on 21 July at 3pm
- Ustav: Celebrating the Art of Dance on 21 July at 7pm
- Aladdin on 25 – 26 July at 6pm
- Nacho 24 on 27 July at 1.30pm and 6pm
- Midland Arts Centre (MAC)
- Babies Adventures in Music on 5 July at 11am and 1.30pm
- High School Musical on 6 July at 12pm and 6pm
- TDE: Jessica Ackerley and Eli Wallace Due + Amy Coates Trio 9 July at 8pm
- Bournville Young Singers Be Our Guest on 20 July at 4pm
- Surge Orchestra: Family Jam and Workshop on 21 July at 3pm
- YolanDa’s Band Jam on 28 July at 2pm
- Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
- The Gonzaga Band on 1 July at 1pm
- Instruments of Time and Truth on 1 July at 6pm
- Xinyuan Jiang piano on 5 July at 3pm
- Junior RBC: Symphony Orchestra and Intermediate Choir on 6 July at 7pm
- Der fliegende Holländer (The Flying Dutchman) on 7 July at 2pm and 10 and 13 July at 7pm
- Louis’ Big Summer Concert on 14 July at 4pm
- Joe Cutler Chamber Opera on 14 July at 4.30pm
- CBSO SO Vocal on 18 July at 7pm
- Dazzlers 20-year Anniversary Show on 21 July at 4pm
- The Music of our Community: A BCU Concert for South Asian Heritage Month on 22 July at 5pm
- Birmingham University
Birmingham Hippodrome
Home to Birmingham Royal Ballet and the Welsh National Opera, the Hippodrome is a fantastic large venue that hosts touring arts companies who put on big shows like musicals.
What’s On page and booking information: Birmingham Hippodrome
Hamilton on 25 June – 31 August at various times
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s multi award-winning cultural phenomenon Hamilton is touring the UK for the very first time in 2023/2024 and is coming to Birmingham Hippodrome for a ten week season from 25 Jun – 31 Aug 2024.
Hamilton is the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and helped shape the very foundations of the America we know today. The score blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway – the story of America then, as told by America now.
Hamilton has book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, is directed by Thomas Kail, with choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire and is based on Ron Chernow’s biography of Alexander Hamilton.
Winner of 11 Tony Awards including Best Musical, 7 Olivier Awards, the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 2016 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album.
Please note this show is recommended for ages 10+, 5 year olds and under will not be admitted.
DREAMLAND on 5 – 6 July at 7pm
Dreamland (or a musical riff on Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream set during the declassification of Area 51) is exactly what the title says it is, or is it?
Hippodrome Musicals Youth Theatre is a group of incredible young people aged between 7-16 years
Please note this show is recommended for ages 6+.
My Son’s A Queer, (But what can you do?) on 11 – 13 July at 2.45pm and 7.45pm
Written and performed by Rob Madge and directed by Luke Sheppard, the award-winning My Son’s a Queer, (But what can you do?) is back for 2024.
When Rob was 12, they attempted to stage a full-blown Disney parade in their house for their Grandma. As Rob donned a wig and played Mary Poppins, Ariel, Mickey Mouse and Belle, their Dad doubled as Stage Manager, Sound Technician and Goofy. Unfortunately, Dad missed all his cues and pushed all the floats in the wrong direction. Mum mistook Aladdin for Ursula. The costumes went awry and Ariel’s bubble gun didn’t work properly. Grandma had a nice time though.
My Son’s a Queer, (But what can you do?) celebrates the joy and chaos of raising a queer child and is testament to the power of unconditional familial love.
Once a cult sensation, Madge’s show has grown in stature to become WhatsOnStage Award winning and Olivier Award nominated and now due to public demand is set to embark on a brand new national tour visiting seven brand new venues.
Originating at the Turbine Theatre in 2021, it had a sold-out season at the Edinburgh Festival in 2022, followed by a national tour and then two West End runs. Three years on, join social-media sensation Rob Madge as they set out to recreate that parade – and this time, nobody, no, NOBODY is gonna rain on it!
Please note this show is recommended for ages 12+.
Symphony Hall
Symphony Hall is a wonderful purpose built concert hall, famous for its amazing acoustics. The Hall is part of the International Convention Centre on Centenary Square and next door to Birmingham Rep Theatre.
What’s On page and booking information: Symphony Hall
Nils Frahm on 2 July at 7.30pm
Guidance Under 14s accompanied by an adult
When it comes to defining the space between classical and electronic music, hardly any other name is mentioned as often as that of the Berlin-based pianist, composer and producer Nils Frahm. His unconventional approach to an age-old instrument, played contemplatively and intimately, and his sonic alchemy of ambient textures and atmospheric electronica, has won him many fans around the world.
Numerous tours and concerts all over the globe have strengthened his reputation as both an exceptional instrumentalist and a fascinating live musician. His albums have garnered international acclaim from critics and audiences alike.
Music For Youth’s National Festival on 4 – 6 July at various times
Come and indulge in three days of vibrant live music! Experience the talents of up-and-coming young musicians across various genres including jazz, soul, funk, choirs, orchestras, and much more.
Everyone is welcome to join us! The festival is open to the public and will be held at Symphony Hall, Town Hall, and CBSO Centre, featuring a Fringe stage in Centenary Square.
Free Jazz Fridays: Tomorrow’s Warriors x Music for Youth Takeover at Centenary Square on 5 July at 5pm
Tomorrow’s Warriors Junior Band is an exciting new line-up of musicians aged 14-16, featuring some of the most promising musicians on Tomorrow’s Warriors’ award-winning Young Artist Development Programme. The band are closely mentored by Rosie Turton – one of the finest trombonists on the London scene – as well as Dian Gasper, Axel Kaner-Lidstrom, and Gary Crosby OBE.
Whilst following the lineage of jazz music from learning standards and compositions in the jazz canon, they put their own unique mark on the music as a band through new arrangements of these songs.More About Tomorrow’s Warriors
For over 30 years, Tomorrow’s Warriors has played a vital role within its community and the wider music industry and has been credited with literally changing the face of UK jazz.
Free access to Tomorrow’s Warriors artistic programme has proved crucial in nurturing the nascent talent and early careers of so many of the most exciting UK artists currently tearing up the international jazz scene including Mercury Prize 2023 winners Ezra Collective, Moses Boyd, Nubya Garcia, Shabaka Hutchings and Sons of Kemet, ESKA, Jason Yarde, Denys Baptiste, Robert Mitchell, Soweto Kinch, Shirley Tetteh, Byron Wallen…the list goes on.
A black-founded and black-led organisation, Tomorrow’s Warriors is based at Southbank Centre in London and offers a pioneering, comprehensive programme of learning and training which champions and supports young black and female talent and those who come from challenging circumstances that would be a barrier to accessing opportunities to pursue a music career.
“Tomorrow’s Warriors occupies a unique and vital space in our cultural landscape. Their work in helping positively shape future generations is of critical importance especially with the tribulations we currently face. Please keep supporting – each one, teach one!” Gilles Peterson
Free event.
Services for Education: Youth Proms 2024 on 8 – 11 July at various times
Over four nights, Services For Education will showcase the musical talents over 4500 young musicians from across Birmingham. Featuring performances from SFE Central Ensembles, Area Ensembles, School Based Ensembles and Birmingham Schools’ Primary Choir.
These concerts will feature music from a variety of genres and are a culmination of the work SFE has been doing in schools and at ensemble centres throughout 2023-24.
The concerts will have BSL interpretation.
Monday 8 July
Birmingham Schools’ Symphony Orchestra
Birmingham Schools’ Guitar Sinfonia
Birmingham Schools’ Training Wind Orchestra
Birmingham Schools’ Raga & Tala
Birmingham Schools’ Fusion Ensemble
Birmingham Schools’ Massed Ensemble featuring:
The Oaks Primary School
Bournville Village Primary
SFE UoB Area Ensemble
Abbey Catholic Primary School
Holy Cross Catholic Primary School
Lea Forest Primary Academy
Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School
St Laurence Church Junior School
Westminster Primary SchoolBirmingham Schools’ Primary Choir featuring:Holy Cross Catholic Primary School
Lea Forest Primary Academy
West Heath Primary School
Bordesley Green Primary School
St Laurence Church Junior School
The Oaks Primary School
Westminster primary school
Little Sutton primary School
Hodge Hill Primary School
Abbey Catholic Primary School
Bournville Village Primary School
St John Fisher Catholic Primary SchoolTuesday 9 July
Birmingham Schools’ Singers
Birmingham Schools’ Concert Band
Birmingham Schools’ Guitar Ensemble
Birmingham Schools’ Azaad Dhol Group
Birmingham Schools’ Recorder Sinfonia
Birmingham Schools’ Double Reed Ensemble
Birmingham Schools’ Massed Ensemble featuring: Lakey Lane Junior and Infant School
Waverley School
Bournville School
St Mary’s Church of England Primary School
Birches Green Junior School
Grendon Junior and Infant School
Kings Norton Girls’ School
Mansfield Green E-ACT Primary Academy
Mere Green Primary School
Oasis Academy Short Heath
Raddlebarn Primary School
St Francis Church of England Aided Primary School and Nursery
St Teresa’s Catholic Primary School
The Dame Ellen Pinsent School
Washwood Heath Academy
Waverley School
William Murdoch Primary School
World’s End Junior SchoolBirmingham Schools’ Primary Choir featuring:Hill West primary School
Colmore Junior School
Firs Primary School
Mere Green Primary school
Slade Primary School
Lozells Primary School
Tiverton Academy
St Thomas More RC Primary
Raddlebarn Primary School
Rookery
St Francis CE Primary School and Nursery
William Murdoch Primary School
Clifton Primary
Mansfield GreenWednesday 10 July
Birmingham Schools’ Steel Band
Birmingham Schools’ Training Guitar Ensemble
Birmingham Schools’ String Sinfonia
Birmingham Schools’ Brass Band
Birmingham Schools’ Training Percussion Ensemble
Birmingham Schools’ Keyboard Ensemble
Birmingham Schools’ Massed Ensemble featuring:
Hillstone Primary School
Hamstead Hall Academy
Nishkam High School
Lindsworth School
Whitehouse Common Primary School
Acocks Green Primary School
Boldmere Junior School
Cockshut Hill Technology College
Hallfield School
King Edward VI Northfield School for Girls
Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary School
Queensbridge School
St Cuthbert’s RC Junior and Infant (NC) School
St Marys C of E Primary and Nursery, Academy, Handsworth
The University of Birmingham School
New Oscott Primary SchoolBirmingham Schools’ Primary Choir featuring :Water Mill Primary School
Four Dwellings Primary Academy
Rednal Hill Junior School
Gossey Lane Academy
Penns Primary
Cotteridge Primary
Barford
Glenmead
King Solomon International Business School
Guardian Angels Primary School
Chivenor Primary School
SS Mary and John School
Woodthorpe JI School
St Martin de Porres RC Primary
Brownmead Academy
Kings Norton Primary School
George Dixon Primary SchoolThursday 11 July
Birmingham Schools’ Recorder Ensemble
Birmingham Schools’ Jazz Band
Birmingham Schools’ Junior String Orchestra
Birmingham Schools’ Wind Orchestra
Birmingham Schools’ Percussion Ensemble
Birmingham Schools’ Training Brass Band
Birmingham Schools’ Massed Ensemble featuring:
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School
Hawkesley Church Primary Academy
King Edward VI Lordswood School for Girls (LGS)
Featherstone Primary School
Archbishop Ilsley Catholic School
Cofton Primary School
King Edward VI Handsworth Grammar School for Boys
King Edward VI Sheldon Heath Academy
St Edward’s Catholic Primary School
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School
St Wilfrid’s Catholic Junior and Infant School
Swanshurst School
Cherry Orchard Primary SchoolBirmingham Schools’ Primary Choir featuring:
The Orchards Primary AcademySeverne Primary School
Ladypool Primary
Victoria School
St Matthews C of E primary School
Warren Farm Primary School
Cofton Primary School
Heathlands Primary Academy
Norfolk House School
Maryvale Catholic Primary School
Priestley Smith School
OASIS Academy Foundry
Kings Rise Academy
Alston Primary School
Kings Heath Primary
Regents Park Community Primary School
Turves Green Primary School
Minworth J and I
Cherry Orchard Primary School
Free Jazz Fridays: Nick Dewhurst Band – Fusion Line Quartet on 12 July at 5pm
Focusing on original compositions written by Nick, the ND Band: Fusion Line Quartet explores the world of Jazz Fusion. The music is inspired by great artists from this genre such as The Brecker Brothers, The Yellowjackets and Steps Ahead, as well as some of Nick’s main musical influences such as Jazz Trumpeters Nicolas Folmer & Till Brönner, and additionally Guitarists such as Robben Ford and Larry Carlton. Expect melodic, rhythmic and soulful music, all played with exceptional musicianship featuring some of the Midlands’ finest Jazz Musicians.
Free event.
Anton DuBeke and Giovanni Pernice: Together on 12 July at 7.30pm
After the hugely successful Him and Me Tour, the nation’s favourite double act, Anton Du Beke and Giovanni Pernice, are back with their brand new live tour – Together!
Strictly Come Dancing’s Anton and Giovanni will bring you more fun, more dance, more song, and even more entertainment.
The show will be a mesmerising experience for all ages, showcasing the duo’s incredible talents and irresistible chemistry on stage.
With a collection of breath taking routines, innovative choreography, and a seamless blend of traditional and contemporary dance styles, plus musical theatre, Togetherguarantees an unforgettable evening of entertainment.
Stand By for Action! 2: Gerry Anderson in Concert on 13 July at 7.30pm
Step into the timeless world of Gerry Anderson’s TV shows in a brand new 2024 celebration as a full orchestra brings iconic theme tunes and music to life. Feel the pulse of Thunderbirds, the mysterious allure of Stingray, and the futuristic vibes of Space: 1999.
Immerse yourself in a symphonic journey through Anderson’s universes where each note conjures memories of daring rescues, epic space adventures and puppetry magic.
Hosted by Jon Culshaw, this unique new concert celebrates the enduring legacy of Anderson’s creations, blending nostalgia with the thrill of live music for a night that will resonate with fans of all ages.
Workplace Voices Summer Concert on 16 July at 7pm
We are delighted to be bringing together some of the city’s best workplace choirs and sharing their joy for singing together!
It is widely recognised that group singing has huge benefits on our wellbeing and being part of a workplace choir can help being teams together, reduce stress and boost morale. We are very much looking forward to this Summer Concert and celebrating of all that these choirs have been working towards over the past few months.
The concert will feature:
B:Music Workplace Voices (formerly Birmingham City Council Choir)
City of Wolverhampton Choir
HSBC Choir
DLA Piper Birmingham Choir
PWC Choir
Nashville Sounds in the Round: Gasoline & Matches, Paris Adams, Harleymoon Kemp & Preston d. Barnes on 18 July at 7.30pm
Birmingham’s premier country songwriter night ‘Nashville Sounds In The Round’ in partnership with B:Music! Hosted by multi award-winning Gasoline & Matches, artists are invited to tell the stories behind their songs in a Bluebird Café style ‘In The Round’ session, stripping the songs back to their origins and transporting the audience right back to the writing rooms.
Gasoline & Matches
Gasoline & Matches are a high energy, multi-award winning, dual fronted British band combining close harmonies, melodic guitar licks and serious musicianship. Fronted by Birmingham natives Sally Rea Morris and Stephen Marks, they are fierce entertainers known for their tongue-in-cheek and much-loved song “Never Have I Ever” described by Bob Harris as “Clever, funny, totally original…and it’s Country!” They built momentum after multiple spins on BBC Radio 2, and never fail to get festival goers on their feet to participate in the infamous drinking game which inspired the song. As resident hosts of Nashville Sounds in the Round, their Bluebird Cafe style songwriter round at Birmingham Symphony Hall, it’s clear to see their contribution & influence on Country and Americana music in the Midlands.
Paris Adams
Described by the Evening Standard as “an exciting British talent”, Paris Adams, founder member, lead vocalist and songwriter of The Adelaides, is embarking on her solo chapter after her success with the band. Justifying such high praise with the release of her latest single ‘Trigger’ which was recorded in Nashville with Grammy nominated producer Femke, this single is just the first sign of what is yet to come. Whilst Paris made her live debut as a solo artist on the Caitlyn Smith tour in 2022, she is a seasoned performer. Paris played at British Summertime in London’s Hyde Park two years running as support to Michael Bublé (2018) and Celine Dion (2019).
Harleymoon Kemp
Honing her craft in Nashville, as well as writing material for herself, Harleymoon is a prolific writer and a sensational performer, from a musical family, it’s in her blood. Harleymoon won the “Horizon Award” for Best Up-and-Coming Artist at the British CMAs after her debut single “Space” and Nashville written ‘She Looks Like Me’ rocketed to #1 on the UK Apple music chart and featured on Absolute Radio Country, BBC and Countryline. She has since been asked to perform her music at BBC Radio London and she hosted and performed on the main stage at the Mayor of London’s huge St. George’s Day festival in Trafalgar Square. Summer of 2023 saw Harleymoon firing up crowds on main stages at festivals including Pub in the Park, Big Feastival and Brighton Pride alongside Mel C and Steps. Her live show is a party, her costumes are bold, she explains: “MY SHOW IS A NIGHT OF BAD DATES AND HEARTBREAKS.” Breaking through the music scene one cowgirl boot at a time, Harleymoon is one to watch out for. After a winter recording her new material, and a busy summer of festivals ahead, 2024 better be ready!!
Preston D. Barnes
With a deep routed love of Country music fuelled with Rock and Pop influences – Preston D Barnes has released 8 singles to date – all of them hitting the top 10 in the UK Country Music Charts. Known as the new kid on the block within the Country Music scene he has also been compared by Absolute Radio as ‘a British Keith Urban’. Maverick Magazine also quoted – Preston’s vocals are strong but smooth, he reminded me of Brett Young or Russell Dickerson on his last release. This makes me eager to hear what’s to come!” Preston D Barnes is from Lancashire, UK and has served a 22-year career in the British Army. During his military career, Preston travelled across the globe to over 38 countries. He has played with world-renowned artists such as Jools Holland, Status Quo, Russell Watson, Catherine Jenkins, and JLS. Since joining the Country Music scene, Preston has had the opportunity to work with some of America’s greatest Country songwriters both in Nashville and the UK (Credits – Rascal Flatts, Miranda Lambert, Lady A, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban) Preston is currently working on a future album which is set to be released in 2024 which will dive deep into Preston’s experiences, emotions and real life stories.
Naseebo Lal: The Queen of Melody on 20 July at 7.30pm
Witness the legendary Naseebo Lal Live in Concert with her full live band. Experience the enchanting melodies and soul-stirring vocals of Pakistan’s music icon in a mesmerizing live concert like never before.
The concert showcases Naseebo Lal’s musicians from Pakistan collaborating with her UK musicians for the very first time. Prepare to be transported down memory lane of musical bliss as Naseebo Lal takes the stage with her timeless hits, charismatic presence and experience her paying homage to legends such as Noor Jehan (the original Melody Queen), Musarrat Nazir & Reshma.
Cirque on 27 July 3pm
Where Musical Theatre Meets Circus
It’s time to step into the light. Escape with us for a night like no other, where we take you into a world where the very best of musical theatre showstoppers meets jaw-dropping circus spectacular.
A world that explodes into colour as everyone’s favourite West End and Broadway hits combine with breath-taking, amazing performances, incredible contortionists, and thrilling feats of agility and flair. It’s the brand-new variety spectacular everyone is talking about . . welcome to Cirque: the award-winning, smash-hit sensation that is fun for all the family.
Live at B:Eats Summer Series: Teveil Walker on 31 July at 1pm
Here at B:Music, we like to support talent both on and off stage, and this upcoming performance features Teveil Walker from our Box Office team, who will be taking you on a soulful, musical journey during your lunchtime this Summer. With influences from the likes of Leon Bridges to Cynthia Erivo, you can be sure that Teveil will provide that moment of peace during a busy working week!
To celebrate the start of Live at B:Eats Summer Series, every purchase of B:Eats Birmingham special will receive 10% off (on the food items to follow only: Brummie Bacon Cake, Fake-Un Cake, Birmingham Soup, Brummie Butter Chicken Thali or Red Lentil Dhal
Birmingham Town Hall
Symphony Hall’s sister venue, Birmingham Town Hall is just a little way down the road.
What’s On page and booking information: Birmingham Town Hall
Music For Youth’s National Festival on 4 – 6 July at various times
Come and indulge in three days of vibrant live music! Experience the talents of up-and-coming young musicians across various genres including jazz, soul, funk, choirs, orchestras, and much more.
Everyone is welcome to join us! The festival is open to the public and will be held at Symphony Hall, Town Hall, and CBSO Centre, featuring a Fringe stage in Centenary Square.
The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace on 7 July at 6pm
To mark the 80th birthday of composer Karl Jenkins, we present one of his best loved works: The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace
Phoenix Singers and Midlands’ Hospitals Choir, joined by Cantores Beati, all under the leadership of James Llewelyn Jones, bring you this moving work, at a time when we all need to hear its message of peace.
With Gemini Brass and organist Richard Dawson
CBSO 2024/25: Schubert 9 on 17 July at 7.30pm
Running time This concert will last approximately 2 hours.
Beautiful songs – and a noble farewell.
Schubert was an absolute master of melody and his ‘lieder’ (songs) still pack a punch 200 years after he wrote them. In tonight’s performance, these songs range from the romantic to the terrifying, and Mary Bevan and Edward Gardner bring out every nuance in the vibrant orchestrations. Schubert’s Symphony No.9 (the last he wrote) is a suitably grand final word.
Pop Voices presented t ‘Let’s Celebrate’ on 20 July at 3pm
Created in 2013, by choir director Anya Small, Pop Voices brings together amateur singers ranging from age six to 80-years young, many of whom had never sung in public before, and the result is magical. The choir is now in high demand, appearing on TV and radio and recently appearing on the BBC’s Hairy Bikers Christmas special filmed at The Birmingham Symphony Hall.
The choir will be celebrating the joy of music and singing by performing new repertoire, popular songs spanning the decades including tracks by The Beatles, Imagine Dragons, Pink, George Michael, Billy Joel and more. This will be an evening of uplifting and foot- tapping favourites as 300+ adults and children of Pop Voices accompanied by a live band and special guests will raise the Town Hall Roof once more.
This will be a signed performance.
CBSO 2024/25: Youth Orchestra Academy on 28 July at 7pm
Running time This concert will last approximately 2 hours.
Ticking clocks, marching drums and boisterous Beethoven.
Haydn’s Symphony 101 ‘ticks’ all the way through its second movement, while the bassoon shares the stage with a pounding timpani in Weber’s Concerto. The CBSO’s Nikolaj Henriques does the honours in the Weber, before we hear Michael Seal lead the CBSO Youth Orchestra in Beethoven’s most cheerful, dancing symphony.
CBSO Centre
The CBSO is a world class orchestra, right on our doorstep. They have performed all over the world, and are absolutely fantastic. The orchestra performs regularly at both the Town Hall and Symphony Hall in Birmingham and in their own home just down the road and nearer the canal, the CBSO Centre. You will see above in the listing for both Symphony Hall and Town Hall that concerts by the CBSO are being performed at those venues this month, in this section I am talking only about the concerts that will take place at the CBSO Centre.
What’s On page and booking information: CBSO Centre
Music For Youth’s National Festival on 4 – 6 July at various times
Come and indulge in three days of vibrant live music! Experience the talents of up-and-coming young musicians across various genres including jazz, soul, funk, choirs, orchestras, and much more.
Everyone is welcome to join us! The festival is open to the public and will be held at Symphony Hall, Town Hall, and CBSO Centre, featuring a Fringe stage in Centenary Square.
The Alexandra Theatre
The Alexandra Theatre is a Receiving House Theatre (it receives productions, and does not rehearse, desig, direct the show in house) in the heart of Birmingham.
What’s On page and booking information: The Alexandra Theatre
101 Dalmations on 2 – 6 July at 2pm and 7pm
The smash hit musical 101 Dalmatians is coming to The Alexandra this summer, starring Kym Marsh (Coronation Street, Hear’say) as the greatest villain of them all, Cruella De Vil.
When fashionista Cruella de Vil plots to swipe all the Dalmatian puppies in town to create her fabulous new fur coat, there’s trouble ahead for Pongo and Perdi and their litter of adorable, tail-wagging young pups.
Dodie Smith’s classic canine caper is brought to life on stage with spectacular puppetry, show-stopping choreography, witty songs and irresistible puppies!
This new musical is written by Douglas Hodge (music and lyrics) and Johnny McKnight (book), from a stage adaptation by Zinnie Harris.
Book your tickets now – you’d be barking mad to miss it!
Please note this show is recommended for ages 5+.
Hello Again – The Neil Diamond Songbook on 7 July at 7.30pm
Join us for the world’s greatest celebration of the life and work of one of the best-selling singer-songwriters of all-time, Neil Diamond.
Using evocative imagery, video and narration to enhance the magic, this acclaimed production will take you on a musical journey through Neil Diamond’s glittering 50-year career.
In this exciting live show you’ll be transported from the ‘Bang Years’ to the present day and soon be singing along to all the hits including Sweet Caroline, Cracklin’ Rosie, Forever in Blue Jeans, Song Sung Blue, Hello Again, Love on the Rocks, America and many more.
Grease on 15 – 20 June at 2.30pm and 7.30pm
After a whirlwind summer romance, leather-clad greaser Danny and girl-next-door Sandy are unexpectedly reunited when she transfers to Rydell High for senior year. But can they survive the trials and tribulations of teenage life and find true love once more?
Why go and see it?
The world’s best-loved musical is back! Grittier and more glamorous than ever before.
With its phenomenal score, bursting with hits including Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’, Hopelessly Devoted to You and You’re the One That I Want, this thrilling new version is brought to life by a fresh young cast who bring energy, vitality and passion to this ultimate musical classic.
So round-up your Burger Palace Boys, pick up your Pink Ladies and re-discover why Grease really is the one that you want this term!
Book, Music & Lyrics by Jim Jacobs & Warren Casey
Directed by Nikolai Foster
Choreography by Arlene Phillips
Please note: The producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any artist at any performance.
Birmingham Jazz Festival: The Swing Cats on 22 July at 1pm
The Swing Cats represent one of the most versatile and seductive vocal proposals that have appeared on the country’s jazz scene, evoking the great jazz voices and composers of the 30s and 40s of the last century, such as Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, George Gershwin and even Chet Baker.
After 5 years playing together around the globe, The Swing Cats are pleased to present “Used to be Duke”. The band has dedicated their second album to one of the greatest composers of the Swing era: Duke Ellington. Delving into the composer’s beautiful harmonies and melodies along with the distinctive touch of The Swing Cats, “Used to be Duke” was born from the desire to honour the life and work of Duke Ellington.
After her first self-titled album (“Saphie Wells & The Swing Cats”, 2016), after having participated in various festivals (Vijazz, Mas i Mas Festival, El Grec, Torreilles Jazz Festival (France), La Jazz Festival Costa Brava, Jazzing Festival, La Mercè, opening of the Tarragona Dixieland Festival, Platja d’Aro Jazz Festival…) and having played in renowned venues both nationally and internationally (Peru, Croatia, Russia, France… ), the Barcelona quartet want to continue distributing their music in the purest The Swing Cats style.
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out on 31 July – 1 August at various times
Peppa Pig is back in her oinktastic brand new live show, Fun Day Out!
Join Peppa, along with her family and friends as they go to the zoo and also the beach for a special party- it’s going to be an exciting and fun packed day.
Prepare to sing and dance with colourful scarecrows, feed the penguins, build big sandcastles, and even swim in the sea!
Packed full of songs, dance and muddy puddles, Peppa’s Fun Day Out guarantees giggles and snorts for all Peppa fans, and a perfect introduction to theatre.
The Crescent Theatre
The Crescent Theatre is a smaller Theatre near Brindley Place. It has a 300 seat auditorium and a 100 seat Studio Theatre.
What’s On Page and booking information: The Crescent Theatre
BOA Presents Exhibition on 2 – 3 July 7.30pm
This production contains stroboscopic lighting effects.
‘Exhibition’ is a dance show inspired by the world of art. BOA Dance Pathway Year 12 perform dances across a range of styles including Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, and Street dance inspired by some of the Worlds most famous art works.
Alice Through the Looking Glass on 5 – 6 July at various times
Adage Dance & Fitness Studios will show you what happened to Alice when she went Through The Looking Glass. Based on Lewis Carroll’s sequel to Alice in Wonderland- Through The Looking Glass takes you on a journey into a bizarre land! Looking Glass Land is compared to a chess board where Alice needs to make it to the 8th Square in order to be crowned Queen. Each square takes on new characters and surroundings on this magical, confusing and wondrous journey.
The Little Mermaid on 12 – 14 July at 7.30pm
This production contains pyrotechnic effects and stroboscopic lighting effects.
Birmingham Youth Theatre presents The Little Mermaid.
Join Birmingham Youth Theatre under the sea, following Ariel, a mermaid with a fascination for life on land who falls in love with a human prince until her plans go wrong, will it all come to a happy ending?
The Trying Rooms on 21 July at 3pm
The Try Rooms is a contemporary dance theatre double bill. The two pieces, The Agony of Definition and Daughtered share an overarching theme of increasingly desperate attempts to reach a resolution, to fit into a box, to remember what it was that we needed to talk about. The double bill tells the stories of people who are trying very hard to get it right; whether that be as a mother, a daughter, or simply a person trying to figure out how to navigate this steady stream of days.
In The Agony of Definition, you will meet Claybourne. Claybourne has been in this place as long as they can remember, and they are sure there is something they have to tell you. However, they cannot seem to remember what it was. Stuck in this Sisyphean nightmare, Claybourne once again embarks on the task of trying to remember, of trying to tell you – as they did the day before, and the day before that, and the day before that… The Agony of Definition is a dance theatre tragicomedy, a journey through words that darts between the boundary of hyperbolised performance and honest vulnerability. Answers and absolutes provide us with security, but what happens when the answer does not come?
Daughtered is a physical theatre duet, performed by a real mother and daughter duo. Drifting apart and falling together, the pair explores how a love so intense can be corrosive when it’s misdirected. Change can feel violent when it digs at the roots of a relationship, at the very identity of ‘mother’. Both go on a journey of learning they cannot save the other, nor can they wait to be saved by the other. Love sits in the same place in their chest as grief, as anger, as fear; but how lucky they are to have a love so fierce that their bodies sometimes can’t quite process what they need to say.
Please note this show is recommended for ages 10+.
Ustav: Celebrating the Art of Dance on 21 July at 7pm
This production contains stroboscopic lighting effects.
Aaja Nachle Let’s Dance (ANLD) brings to you Utsav, celebrating the art of dance. Come and watch the students of ANLD and professional dance troupe perform to some of the biggest Bollywood hits; old and new! You will find yourself tapping your feet to the beat of the music and clapping along! This is a night not to be missed!
Aladdin on 25 – 26 July at 6pm
This production contains stroboscopic lighting effects.
Nacho 24 on 27 July at 1.30pm and 6pm
Bollywood Dreams Dance Academy presents its 16th annual production at the Crescent Theatre in Birmingham. Our annual production NACHO 24, brings together a cast of 184 students to put on a lively Bollywood production celebrating the very best Bollywood hits in recent years and some golden classics.
Special performances by Bollywood Dreams Dance troupe and Artistic Director Reena Tailor.
Midland Arts Centre (MAC)
MAC is a multi-purpose venue, meaning that there is an art gallery both a separate gallery space and one around the cafe areas, workshop spaces, a theatre, a cinema, and other performance spaces. It is also located in Canon Hill Park making it a great place for a day out. It is definitely worth having a look through their website to see if there is something for you and your child(ren) to enjoy. If you are heading to MAC in the near future, it is worth checking out my Venue Guide:
Venue Guide for Parents – Midland Arts Centre, or MAC
What’s On page and booking information: Midland Arts Centre (MAC)
Babies Adventures in Music on 5 July at 11am and 1.30pm
We can’t wait to see you at the return of our BAM concerts! Bring your baby for a bounce with singer Sam Frankie Fox and multi-instrumentalist Ricardo Rocha.
This warmly interactive performance for babies, families and friends celebrates music with a host of instruments, styles, gentle movements and stimulating sounds. A mix of familiar and new music comes to each months’ sessions, building on your babies’ previous interaction and giving them more chance to learn and to grow!
Performances feature harp, diatonic accordion, a range of stringed instruments, songs in different languages and lots lots more.
- Suitable for babies 0-18 months and their families and friends
- Performances are 30 minutes long
Audience review
A spellbinding experience. Totally engaging for babies and toddlers
High School Musical on 6 July at 12pm and 6pm
The children’s dance show for “High School Musical” will be a vibrant display of energy and talent.
Young performers will bring the beloved characters to life with enthusiastic choreography and colourful costumes. Their infectious excitement will have the audience clapping along to hits like “We’re All In This Together” and “Bop to the Top.” The seamless blend of singing and dancing will showcase the kids’ dedication and hard work, creating a memorable and heart-warming experience for all.
For many children, this will be their first time on stage. Best of luck, everyone!
TDE: Jessica Ackerley and Eli Wallace Due + Amy Coates Trio 9 July at 8pm
Jessica Ackerley is a Canadian guitarist, improviser and composer based in Honolulu and New York City and has been described as “one of the most exciting guitarists to have emerged from the US free music scene in recent years” by Wire Magazine.
Eli Wallace’s playing has been described as ‘developing a dynamic approach running a spectrum from minimalist sounds to maximum energy’.
The opening set will be played by a trio led by bass player Amy Coates with Piera Onacko on keys and Kai Chareunsy on drums.
Please note this show is recommended for ages 14+.
Bournville Young Singers Be Our Guest on 20 July at 4pm
Bournville Young Singers will take you on magic carpet ride. From Lion King to Aladdin and Toy Story and beyond, this family friendly concert spans the Disney Universe!
Musical Director: Steven Bache
Accompanist: Richard Hughes
Surge Orchestra: Family Jam and Workshop on 21 July at 3pm
Musicians from high-energy genre-bending Surge Orchestra come together to present a brand new family show with a workshop and family jam.
Be introduced to music from around the globe and travel from China to Congo, and from England to Ireland. Hear new sounds and get involved in this interactive performance for children. We will have plenty of percussion to share with you on the day!
Best suited for ages 5-11, but siblings and all ages welcome.
YolanDa’s Band Jam on 28 July at 2pm
Join award-winning musician and broadcaster YolanDa Brown and her Bandjaminals to bop, bounce and boogie as one of the most watched and loved live action shows on CBeebies jumps from screen to live stage.
Learn all about music at a family-friendly delight for all ages.
Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
Part of Birmingham City University, Birmingham Conservatoire is a music school with a number of purpose-built concert venues, both large and small.
What’s On page and booking information: Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
The Gonzaga Band on 1 July at 1pm
Cantare et Sonare: Songs and Duets of Monteverdi and his Contemporaries
The Gonzaga Band
Faye Newton soprano
Jamie Savan cornett & mute cornett
Steven Devine harpsichord & chamber organEnjoy a lunchtime programme exploring repertoire for solo voice, obbligato cornett and basso continuo from the dawn of the Baroque era.
Monteverdi Venite sitientes ad aquas from Seconda raccolta de sacri canti
Merula Nigra sum from Il primo libro de motetti e sonate
attrib. Rossi Partite sopra la Romanesca from a MS appended to Toccate et correnti
Donati O gloriosa Domina from F Lomazzo Flores praestantissimorum
Marini Sonata per l’organo, violino, ò cornetto from Sonate, symphonie, canzoni … Opera Ottava
Monteverdi Exulta filia from L Calvi: Quarta raccolta de sacri canti
Picchi Toccata from the Fitzwilliam Virginal Book
Calestani Damigella tutta bella from Madrigali et Arie
Monteverdi O come sei gentile from Madrigali libro VII
Anon Passamezzo nuovo I-III from Intablotura nuova di balli
Monteverdi Zefiro torna from Scherzi musicaliFree event.
Instruments of Time and Truth on 1 July at 6pm
Bojan Čičić and Elizabeth MacCarthy violin
Susanne Heinrich viol
Martin Perkins harpsichord and organDiversi Mode Accordata
Experimental string music by Pachelbel, Biber and Buxtehude.
Pachelbel Trio Sonata in E minor
Davidt Adam Baudringer Sonata for viol in B
Buxtehude Trio Sonata in G BuxWV 271
Biber Mystery Sonata No 9 in A minor
Biber Trio Sonata No 6 in DThis performance lasts approximately 55 minutes with no interval.
Free event.
Xinyuan Jiang piano on 5 July at 3pm
Birmingham International Piano Competition – final
Jury: Imogen Cooper, Norma Fisher, John Thwaites
Running time approx. three hours with interval
Junior RBC: Symphony Orchestra and Intermediate Choir on 6 July at 7pm
Junior RBC: Symphony Orchestra and Intermediate Choir
Smetana Vyshehrad & Vltava
Britten-Rossini Matinées Musicales
Stravinsky Firebird Suite (extracts)
Puccini Humming Chorus
Verdi Chorus of the Hebrew slaves (Va Pensiero)
Verdi Witches’ Chorus
Mozart Priests’ ChorusRunning time approx. one hour and 40 minutes, including interval
Der fliegende Holländer (The Flying Dutchman) on 7 July at 2pm and 10 and 13 July at 7pm
Persona Arts presents German language opera, “The Flying Dutchman”
Wagner The Flying Dutchman (Der fliegende Holländer)
Condemned to roam the seas for having defied God, the Flying Dutchman is cast ashore. Both man and ship can only seek redemption if true love can break the curse.
RBC alumnus Byron Jackson FRSA leads an all-star cast of some of the UK’s finest Commonwealth opera singers and features the Birmingham Choral Union, a commissioned work by renowned composer Bobbie-Jane Gardner, community youth choruses and the Central England Camerata under the baton of Jack Ridley.
This unique and diverse community production will be staged by the Artistic Director of the Commonwealth Games 2022 ceremony, Iqbal Khan, a formidable talent in the world of opera and theatre.
Sung in German with English surtitles.
Please note that the performances and rehearsals are not suitable for children under 7.
Louis’ Big Summer Concert on 14 July at 4pm
Violinist and Suzuki Violin teacher Louis Robinson brings his pupils from across the city to play a selection of pieces from Suzuki Violin books 1-5, as well as other pieces including Brahms’ Hungarian Dance No.5, Melodie by Storyk and Pachabel’s Cannon.
A fun and relaxed concert showcasing the work Louis has has been done this year with children and young people.
Joe Cutler Chamber Opera on 14 July at 4.30pm
Joe Cutler: Sonata for Broken Fingers
In the last days of Stalin’s reign, a mysterious phone call from the Kremlin launches a desperate and seemingly hopeless search for a missing pianist…
Joe Cutler and Max Hoehn’s new opera explores the meaning of music in a terrifying world. Inspired by the remarkable life of Maria Yudina, the virtuoso pianist and survivor of Stalin’s purges, this dark absurdist thriller is brought to life by BCMG and a fine cast of soloists. Conceived as an intimate sound experience, the piece is influenced by the radio operas of the past and the recent flourishing of audio drama during the pandemic.
Hear the world premiere performance at the CBSO Centre this summer and stay tuned for a future album release by Birmingham Record Company.
Composer Joe Cutler
Libretto Max Hoehn
Conductor Sian Edwards
Cast Claire Booth, James Cleverton, Stephen Richardson, Lucy Schaufer and Christopher Lemmings
Pre-Recorded Piano Xenia Pestova Bennett
Birmingham Contemporary Music GroupCommissioned by Opera21 and co-produced in partnership with Birmingham Contemporary Music Group and Birmingham Record Company.
Supported by the Radcliffe Trust, Vaughan Williams Foundation, Swiss Cultural Fund, Hinrichsen Foundation, The Marchus Trust, The Golsoncott Foundation, Maria Bjornson Fund, Oleg Prokofiev Trust and Francis Routh Trust.
CBSO SO Vocal on 18 July at 7pm
CBSO SO Vocal Summer Concert with Symphonic Six
Made up of 200 Birmingham-based singers, SO Vocal is CBSO’s unauditioned community choir open to anyone who lives locally and loves to sing. They rehearse weekly in Kings Heath and perform up to three times a year in venues such as Symphony Hall and Town Hall. SO Vocal will be performing a varied programme of music including many familiar classics! SO Vocal are conducted by Lucy Hollins.
For this concert, SO Vocal will also be joined by Symphonic Six. Symphonic Six is a six piece ensemble consisting of clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, piano, double bass and drums. All band members have played at the highest level as members of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and have everything in place to delight audiences in schools, jazz clubs, concert halls, community venues and more.
Running time approx. one hour and 15 minutes
Dazzlers 20-year Anniversary Show on 21 July at 4pm
A fabulous show accumulating 20-years of hard work and enthusiasm creating Dance, Gymnastics, Cheerleading and Musical Theatre pieces performed by students who practice for “Dazzlers Dance and Gymnastics group” from Castle Bromwich, Birmingham.
This fantastic and inspiring Show combines the expertise of Ballet and Lyrical dance, alongside the athleticism of Gymnastics and Acrobatics, with the confidence and projection of Singing.
The Principal of Dazzlers Nicola Steele, has many people to thank for her journey, including Emma, Maisie, Caroline, Janine, Rhiannon, and Maddi, but most of all to her lovely mother Patrica Steele.
Running time approximately up to 3 hours.
The Music of our Community: A BCU Concert for South Asian Heritage Month on 22 July at 5pm
Join us for a colourful celebration of music, food and fun to mark South Asian Heritage Month. The event will be headlined by a virtuoso performance from celebrated international violinist Ustad Johar Ali.
This event will last approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Birmingham University
As well as the Birmingham Conservatoire Birmingham University also has a thriving music department which regularly puts on concerts and events.
What’s On page and booking information: Birmingham University
Jazz in the Garden on 20 July at 7pm
Join us as we welcome the Birmingham Jazz Festival for a magical evening of Jazz in the Garden with Florence Joelle.
Join us as we welcome the Birmingham Jazz Festival for a magical evening of Jazz in the garden. Perfect for a Summers Evening.
The Tea room will be serving wine, beers, soft drinks and snacks until the end of the intermission. Doors open at 6:30pm.
Outdoor performance – Please bring your own seating/blanket, a picnic and do dress for the weather.
Florence Joelle is a Paris-born jazz singer, songwriter, harmonica player, and recording artist based in London, where she is a favourite performer across the city. Bred on jazz at home, and on the music of the Paris streets, she has created a musical subgenre all of her own with her albums, Kiss Of Fire, Stealing Flowers and Life Is Beautiful If You Let It, a Franco-Anglo blend of Latin and classic jazz, vintage and contemporary blues, gypsy folk, fifties R&B and Parisian torch song.
Joelle’s authentic, organic sound, although deeply rooted in the past, vibrates in the present. Classic jazz, French chanson and old-style R&B happily rub shoulders in her compositions.
September 2023 saw the release of More Flaws, her collaboration with modernist bluesmen Tiny Flaws, and a vinyl 45rpm release with jazz and soul label BDQ Records is in the making, due out later in 2024.
Florence Joelle’s songs have been played on BBC Radio (29 Bus Blues and When I Get Low I Get High were ‘song of the week’ on BBC Introducing), Jazz Fm, as well as digital and internet stations across the world.
“The whole album is simply a delight from start to finish.” London Evening Standard ****
“Florence is a rare jewel and this second album captures her captivating style. She boasts deliciously suave vocal phrasing framed by a hot and agile band. Her savvy originals and jumping jazz standards are an unaffected joy. Blooming lovely.” The Mirror****
“Florence Joelle sings rock ’n’ roll like Billie Holiday might, croons a torch ballad as Wanda Jackson may, and spices it all with a bit of Patti Smith attitude.” Vintage Guitar Magazine
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