September 2010

Following the massive success of their play Angels with Manky Faces, Manchester's MaD Theatre Company come to The Met with their new show. Thai Brides and Teacakes is a satirical commentary on the changing ethnic composition of modern Britain and is the latest example of this award-winning theatre company's unique brand of 'off the wall' story telling.

It is four years to the day that bakery owners, Ma and Madeira were married in North Manchester's first same sex civil partnership, and they want a very special gift - a baby. After being unsuccessful in their attempt to adopt a Vietnamese orphan, their attentions have turned to the local men as potential sperm donors. Early candidates proved to be something of a let down until the drop-dead gorgeous, and highly charismatic politician, Richard "Dickie" Moseley sweeps into town. However, all is not how it appears - not just for the two prospective mums, but for the whole community, as Dickie's extreme right-wing policies spell disaster. The devastated Mancunians look for a saviour and it appears in the unlikely form of Fred the builder's part time lap dancing Thai bride.

Thai Brides and Teacakes isn't a conventional theatre production. As with all MaD productions, it is multi-media - aimed at a wide audience - for people who might like to go to the match: or watch bands: or simply people who generally appreciate modern culture.

This production will feature music, as well as cameo performances from some of Manchester's familiar faces, plus one or two surprise guests.

Spider John Koerner is a traditional American folk and country blues musician and rhythmic guitarist. His musical style stems from a solid foundation of the old blues masters, respect for the traditional song, and a firm command of his source material.

"Funky, with lots of open spaces between oddly placed notes, all of it held together with his impeccable timing."Blueswire

Australian singer-songwriter Chloe Hall is an engaging and charismatic performer, but it's the simple, undeniable quality of her songs that leave you with overwhelming emotion. Making up her trio are bassist Chris Mildren and percussionist Teal Bain-Roben.

"Chloe Hall - the future of folk is here today."Rolling Stone

Robin Williamson is founder of psychedelic folk legends The Incredible String Band and one of the few UK artists to play Woodstock. He performs with his wife Bina Williamson to present this celebration of the season of autumn.

Beautiful music on harp and percussion accompany traditional tales of enchantment. Soulful, magical and highly entertaining.

A proud man struggles to break through as a writer. He is in a constant battle between his environment, the salivating monster inside him and the grinding, satanic mills of progress.

Hunger is a dark, grotesque and provocative performance of human survival and man's need to express himself.

Written by Knut Hamsun in 1890, Hunger is widely regarded as one of the first novels to describe the interior of the human mind, while Hamsun himself is considered one of the founders of the modern novel. Pickled Image's adaptation explores the salivating monster of Hunger, touching on madness, delusion and creative genius with just a few puppets, two puppeteers, minimal props and a haunting soundtrack written by Bristol composer Simon Preston.

Having risen to stardom with the single I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker (With Flowers in My Hair), Sandi Thom is back with a brand new album Merchants & Thieves. Powerful melodies and emotive lyrics are mixed with a new bluesy sound strongly influenced by her work with Joe Bonamassa. Sandi is an artist who continues to progress towards something great.

"As striking a musical reinvention as you're likely to witness this year" News of the World

There's magic and mayhem in the rainforest! Animals homes are at risk as bulldozers and diggers crash their way through trees and foliage. Who will come to the rescue and fight the evil Endorro? Can we save the rainforest?

The Lost Forest takes a vital concern and turns it into a fun and dynamic show, using Wayang Golek (colourful rod puppets from West Java), stunning rainforest projections, shadow theatre and original music. Suitable for children 5+ and their parents.

Eric Goulden was among the original 1976-78 Stiff Records posse (Elvis Costello, Ian Dury, The Damned) aiming to revitalize rock. Amy Rigby is a pop princess. Combining several decades of acclaimed records and failed relationships, Eric and Amy join together to play their should-be, could-be and has-been hits.

Matt Andersen has a larger than life showmanship that has been earning him a fervent and steadfast audience wherever he graces the stage. Matt's sprawling blues, roots and rock musical hybrid with his sorrowing and soulful voice has sparked a phenomenal buzz.