Hullywood Calling! Hull to boost filming offer as biggest production yet lands

Hull is stepping up its profile as a filming location hotspot just as Apple TV arrive with the city’s biggest production to date.

‘Blitz’ is currently filming at locations across the city, including Hepworth Arcade and Walton Street fairground, over the next two and a half weeks, and has recruited more than 750 extras to be involved.

Hull City Council is now capitalising on this and other successful productions, including Enola Holmes 2, The Crown, The Extraordinary Life of David Copperfield and A Royal Night Out, by developing a TV and Film Prospectus and marketing plan.

The prospectus will detail how the council has moved from simply being a location finder to a full-service provider. It sets out all the services the council can offer, including professional management services, client liaison and onsite operational delivery.

The council’s partnership with Screen Yorkshire has helped to showcase the city to national and international location managers and producers, resulting in regular site visits and more filming already scheduled. The prospectus will help to further promote the city’s offer to this important creative sector.

Apple TV’s current filming continues this month across various locations. The TV and Film Prospectus will be launched shortly.

Find out more about the productions that have used Hull as a location

The Awakening is back in 2023!

After an incredibly successful launch year in 2022, The Awakening is returning to Hull City Centre Friday 17th & Saturday 18th March 2023, with an additional gig on Sunday 19th March, illuminating the streets of the city centre once again.

Celebrating the change of seasons from winter to spring and our great city’s maritime identity, heritage, folklore and mythology, you are invited to explore the history-rich streets of the city centre from Queens Gardens, down Whitefriargate, across Trinity Square and up to Zebedee’s Yard. Experience magical and entertaining installation experiences as the sun sets into the evening.

With support from the Shared Prosperity Fund, HM Government Levelling Up Fund, Hull Maritime and the Heritage Action Zone, Freedom Festival Arts Trust are delighted to be working in partnership with Hull City Council to bring this event back to Hull city centre again in 2023.

This free to attend event across two evenings brings opportunity to explore world-class installations and performances, with Hull’s historic areas lit up with giant figures and forms like you’ve never seen before. Venturing indoors, we also have musical offerings from local favourites including a special edition of Trinity Live in partnership with Trinity Market and Sesh Events. Returning to Ferens Art Gallery, there will be another chance to catch the RE:SCORE films and a special live performance by Broken Orchestra in Ferens Art Gallery. Just like last year, whilst you’re exploring you can also expect city centre businesses to have their doors open later than usual offering food, drinks and entertainment.

To close such a fantastic weekend, we have a ticketed gig at Social, Humber Street, from Hack-Poets Guild performing their album Blackletter Garland. This will be a folklore-rich, captivating evening from three of the UK’s most innovative and prestigious folk artists. Tickets are available for this gig on Freedom Festival Arts Trust’s website .

Due to a limited capacity audiences are encouraged to book their tickets soon to avoid disappointment.

We are expecting a lively and eventful weekend with plenty to see, so join us back in the city centre for a weekend to remember to welcome in Spring. For updates on this event and more, visit www.theawakeninghull.co.uk & follow @FreedomFestHull and #AwakeningHull.

Free and Discounted Tickets Available for Humber Street Live – Social’s new Saturday of Music

Sesh Events UK Ltd is aiming to improve access for more people to attend live music events at their venue Social, after celebrating securing a funding bid to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. With this support they are now offering cheaper and free advance tickets this weekend, and in February and March, to their ongoing new weekly Saturday night of live music night, Humber Street Live.

After a successful launch this month, the night continues this Saturday 28 January, and then through February and March, showcasing the very best original acts from across the region and beyond, with three bands/artists on the bill, plus a guest DJ and afterparty.

Humber Street Live has received £13,366.00 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Dave Mays, Sesh Events UK Ltd Director, said, “We’re keen to help everyone engage with cultural events and live music, so are pleased due to the funding received, we can offer a proportion of advance discounted concession tickets at £3, as well as free tickets to those who might need them. The funding also allows us to support engagement with and employment of a variety of skilled local creative freelancers working in event production, management, marketing and photography. We encourage all to join us at Humber Street Live for a great evening and celebration of the amazing talent we have in the city and further afield.”

Following a strong start in the first three weeks of January, which saw 200+ people in attendance each Saturday, with headline performances from Yasmin Coe, Audrey and The Avenues, the night is back this weekend headlined by local Alt-Country/Rock heroes The Mighty & The Moon, supported by The Bobby Joyce Band and Kristian Eastwood.

February will showcase a wide range of genres and acts, including Electronica, Indie-Pop, Folk, Funk, Soul and more, from local artists Cutty, Infidels, Bungalow, Fat Generous and Imogen Hart; in addition to UK breaking bands Casino (Liverpool), Sun King (York), Vega Rally (Manchester) and High Fade (Scotland) on the bill.

Mark Page, Sesh Events UK Ltd Director, said “we’re thrilled so many people have shown their support to the night and the bands who have played this month, so it’s great to be able to help those who perhaps could not, or are yet to, attend a show at Social. We know times are hard for some, so come enjoy a great night of live music for free in the city centre, where you might just see your new favourite band.”

Full details of the Humber Street Live programme and how to get tickets are available on the Social website: socialhumberstreet.co.uk

When love is in the air… It Must Be Hull

Wondering what to do for Valentine’s Day? Love it or hate it, all loved up or loving the single life, no one needs to miss out. Check out these ideas, chosen with love, from Hull.

Dinner for two… The team at Hearth in Trinity Square has Michelin-star restaurant experience, which makes this place one to watch. The upstairs restaurant offers starters such as barbecued baby gem lettuce with hazelnut truffle pesto and mains including sea bream with seaweed butter sauce in the evenings.
The Brazilian in Humber Dock Street adds South American-style flair to the dining experience. The showstoppers are the Brazilian churrascaria steaks, but fish, vegetarian and vegan options are also available.

Oishii Ne Japanese food specialist in Paragon Arcade is running two evening dinner services for Valentine’s with an Asian-inspired Omakase-style menu. Sittings from 7pm on Saturday 11 February 2023 and Tuesday 14 February 2023.

At the Humber Fish Company in Humber Street, there’s a two-course Valentine’s lunch menu on Tuesday 14 February 2023, as well as evening service from 5pm – for fresh, sustainably sourced seafood from Falmouth Bay lobsters and east coast crabs, to fresh fish and Cornish oysters.

If informal is more your thing, try Bert’s Pizza and Gelato by the Dock in Queen Street, or a daytime visit to Trinity Market food hall, which has everything from Greek gyros and Indian tikka roti rolls, to south-east Asian noodles, Mexican burritos, Italian arancini, falafel wraps, soups and tarts, baked goods, coffee, tea, handmade chocolates, craft beers and much more.

For more great foodie deals, check out the latest special offers across the city.

For a laugh… treat your other half to a night of comedy with a triple-headliner show at Comedy Lounge in George Street on Tuesday 14 February 2023, where there’s cabaret seating and table service, plus two-for-one deals on cocktails and burgers.

Big screen… Pride is on the big screen on Thursday 16 February 2023. This 2014 film is based on the true story of a group of lesbian and gay activists who campaigned and raised funds for miners during the strikes of 1984-85. Hot drinks are provided, and organisers suggest bringing snacks and a blanket. James Reckitt Reading Room, Hull Central Library, Albion Street. Part of LGBTQ+ history month.

Anti Valentine’s… join the Cult Cinema Sunday crew for an ‘anti Valentine’s’ 30th anniversary screening of True Romance: Director’s Cut on Sunday 12 February 2023 at Social, Humber Street. Written by Quentin Tarantino and directed by Tony Scott, it’s a 1993 classic. This screening is served up with the option of food from Thieving Harry’s, a free film quiz, a prize raffle and custom-made alternative movie posters.

Galentines… (and guy-entines) if you’re spending the day with your crew rather than in a two, what could be more life-affirming than learning how to throw axes together? Game of Throwing Hull in Dock Street has expert coaches to show you how it’s done (safely). Exhilarating!

And finally… Nothing says I love you like tickets to the DeanWorld Variety Valentine’s Show. Join much-loved local poet, pebble collector and painter on Saturday 11 February 2023 for a tongue-in-cheek night for “lovers, the lonely, the lost and the lusty”. Expect poems, music, laughs and bingo. Toastie (The Back Room), Whitefriargate.

Booking a romantic break? See our Stay section for a comprehensive list of city centre hotels, bed & breakfasts and serviced apartments here

Unlock the mysteries of Ancient Egypt in exciting free exhibitions at the Ferens

Ferens Art Gallery are delighted to announce an ancient Egypt season this Spring/Summer 2023.

Featuring two free exhibitions supported by a dedicated programme for schools and public events, the season will explore the beauty and mystery of ancient Egypt celebrating two of the greatest Egyptian discoveries of the last 200 years. The decoding of the Rosetta Stone in 1822, which unlocked our understanding of the ancient Egyptian world. Then one hundred years later, the discovery in 1922 of the almost undisturbed tomb of Tutankhamun which sparked a worldwide sensation.

A highlight of the season will be the British Museum touring exhibition Egyptian hieroglyphs: unlock the mystery, charting the beauty and language of Egyptian hieroglyphs. Displaying a range of objects from ancient Egypt, the exhibition will provide an insight into the importance of hieroglyphs for ancient Egyptians, playing a pivotal role in their lives and beyond. Other objects in the exhibition include an extract from the Book of the Dead, a large limestone lintel revealing the name of Pharaoh Ramses III and an ancestor statue that helped to keep the memory of the dead alive in the family house.

The second exhibition, Tutankhamun: 100 Years of Discovery, will unearth the thrilling stories, myths and controversies surrounding the treasures of Tutankhamun. Hull Museums will be displaying their collection of beautifully crafted replicas of treasures found in Tutankhamun’s tomb, which were handmade by sculptor William Aumonier Junior and his team of skilled artisans for the British Empire Exhibition at Wembley in 1924 and 1925. Visitors will be able to follow in the footsteps of those Wembley visitors from 100 years ago when the momentous discovery caused a sensation and ‘Tutmania’ swept the world.

The two exhibitions will be on display alongside each other at the Ferens Art Gallery from Friday 17 March to Sunday 18 June 2023.

For visitors wishing to discover more, the season will feature bookable talks by British Egyptologist Joann Fletcher and drop in talks by Hull Museums curatorial team.

Families will be able to explore the beauty of ancient Egypt through bookable artist workshops and a series of family-friendly drop-in activities for all ages and abilities.

Primary schools from Hull and the region will also be invited to explore the two exhibitions to discover the treasures of Tutankhamun’s Tomb and unlock the secrets of Ancient Egyptian life through bookable workshops.

Further details on the supporting programme are to be announced.

Councillor Alison Collinson, Chair of Hull Culture and Leisure Ltd, said: “Ancient Egypt has fascinated people for generations. It’s exciting that the Ferens, with the help and generosity of the British Museum, is able to offer these free exhibitions, which will showcase this sensational chapter of history for our local residents and schoolchildren to enjoy.”

Hartwig Fischer, Director of the British Museum, said: “The British Museum touring exhibition Egyptian hieroglyphs: unlock the mystery marks 200 years since the remarkable breakthrough to decipher a long-lost language. For the first time in millennia the ancient Egyptians could speak directly to us. By breaking the code, our understanding of this incredible civilisation has given us an unprecedented window onto the people of the past and their way of life.”

Become part of a friendly and enthusiastic family of volunteers

HEY! Volunteering, a big, friendly enthusiastic family of volunteers, are hosting a recruitment drive.

Applications opens on Monday 16th January and provides an opportunity for the people of Hull and East Yorkshire to join the programme and support arts, culture and heritage across the region.

The iconic, blue-coated volunteer programme began back in 2016 to support Hull’s incredible year as UK City of Culture the following year.

Now hosted by Visit Hull and East Yorkshire and called HEY! Volunteering, , the story continues as it strives to improve lives and experiences through volunteering.

The programme provides volunteering opportunities for people to support the places they love and believes that working together makes it greater than the sum of its parts.

The recruitment drive will give more people the chance to become involved and is planned to continue until late February.

Cllr Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for art and culture at Hull City Council and long-serving volunteer with the programme, said: “The HEY! Volunteers are a flag bearing face for the city.

“The time and effort the volunteers put into making our city great is very much appreciated. Long may it continue.”

HEY! Volunteering programme is open to anyone aged 16 and above and members can volunteer as much or as little time as they wish to or can provide.

Abi Bell, Volunteer Programme Manager, said: “We’re excited to expand our volunteering family even further with our latest recruitment drive.

“HEY! Volunteering is an amazing opportunity for people to give something back to the place that they love, meet new people and learn new skills.

“One of the greatest strengths of the programme is its flexibility. You can volunteer as much or as little as you like, as well as try something new every week if you choose to.

“Your volunteering journey is entirely shaped by your own interests and availability.”

Primary funding for HEY! Volunteering comes from Spirit of 2012.

Ruth Hollis, CEO of Spirit of 2012 said: “We have learned so much from Hull – it’s a flagship volunteering programme which is gaining a reputation for best practice in the sector.

“Those insights, both from HEY Volunteering and previously Hull volunteers are helping to shape other volunteer programmes nationally, which is extremely exciting.”

A pop-up space will be held in Princes Quay during the recruitment drive where people can speak to current volunteers for an informal chat about the programme or to sign up. You can also apply online here.

You can find out more information on what HEY! Volunteering does here or by emailing hello@heyvolunteering.co.uk.

You can also find them on social media at @HEYVolunteering.

To hear about some of the great work that HEY! Volunteering has already done, click here.

5 places in Hull where you can enjoy Veganuary

It’s that time of year when many people are persevering with, and possibly struggling with new year resolutions.

In recent years reducing, or even cutting-out meat consumption, has been an increasingly popular choice, encouraged in part by Veganuary – an annual challenge that promotes and educates about veganism by encouraging people to follow a vegan lifestyle for the month of January.

The rise in veganism has created a boom in vegan restaurants and food outlets, and also encouraged restaurants and chains to add more vegan options to their menus.

Here’s five places in Hull where you can grab some fantastic vegan bites this Veganuary –

Flour and Feast

Humber Street

This popular Hull bakery always offers a range of vegan snacks, including vegan donuts – yum.

Trinity Market

Trinity Square

There are plenty of vegan options in Trinity Market. Only is a vegan pizza parlour (their vegan cheese is incredibly authentic) and Falafia will let you create your own falafel wrap or box from their extensive options.

Atom

Princes Avenue

One of the latest arrivals to Princes Avenue, Atom is home to Pattie Shack which, not surprisingly, makes Hull’s famous (and often vegan) patties the focal part of their menu. Much of the Pattie Shack menu also offers vegan alternatives to their dishes.

Hitchcock’s Vegetarian Restaurant

Bishop Lane

Although a vegetarian restaurant, this Hull institution serves up plenty of delicious vegan options. Situated in Hull’s Old Town, it’s a lovely place to visit for any occasion and a great excuse to extend your night exploring other spots in this historic area of the city.

Church Street Coffee & Kitchen

Church Street

This new addition in Sutton is a great place to grab a coffee or a small bite to eat. They also have a wide-range of guest chefs/kitchens which often offer delicious vegan options.

This is just a small example of where you can enjoy great vegan food in Hull so, wherever you go this Veganuary, enjoy!

Welcome Back to Hull Truck Theatre’s 50th Anniversary Year

Hull Truck Theatre are excited to turn their focus to the future as their 50th Anniversary year comes to a close in March 2023 with the world premiere of Hull Playwright Lydia Marchant’s brand-new comedy Mumsy from Thursday 2 – Saturday 25 March 2023. Developed as part of Hull Truck Theatre’s Artist Development Programme, fans of Motherland will love this enjoyable new comedy that lifts the lid on the highs and lows of being and becoming a Mum – not to be missed.

January and February 2023 are action packed with shows for all different audiences to enjoy – from comedy with Lloyd Griffith: One Tonne of Fun, to funny, eclectic, and political theatre: The City and The Town (Friday 10 – Saturday 11 February), to an adaptation of the well-loved children’s story: The Tortoise and The Hare (Thursday 16 – Saturday 18 February).

The theatre also welcomes audiences to come together to enjoy visiting artists and companies who will present some great music and comedy and a diverse programme of contemporary work in the Godber Studio.

Mark Babych Artistic Director at Hull Truck Theatre, said: “We are looking forward to presenting and welcoming a range of unique and varied productions to our venue in 2023. We’re phenomenally proud of Hull Truck Theatre’s achievements over the past 50 year and as we move forward, we will continue our commitment to producing and presenting work of the highest quality, as we move from the dark winter months into the joy and hope of Summer.”

Oh! What A Night (Saturday 14 January), kicks off our season, combining amazing vocals, slick harmonies, and even slicker dance moves – it’s the ultimate celebration of one of the world’s greatest Rock and Roll bands! Audiences can be taken back in time on a musical journey through the incredible career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Featuring songs such as Sherry, Let’s Hang On, Big Girl’s Don’t Cry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You and many, many more!

We will be screening the best art and independent cinema from around the world as the Godber Studio hosts a state-of-the-art screen and sound system streaming live broadcasts in partnership with The Royal Shakespeare Company and National Theatre. Running in partnership with Hull Independent Cinema we will present Hull Independent Cinema: The Gravediggers Wife (Saturday 14 January); Nasra urgently needs an expensive operation to treat chronic kidney disease. Guled is already working hard as a gravedigger to make ends meet: how will they find the money to save Nasra and keep the family together? NT Live: The Crucible (Thursday 26 January); Raised to be seen but not heard, a group of young women in Salem suddenly find their words have an almighty power. Hull Independent Cinema: Corsage (Friday 10 February); A funny, refreshingly irreverent spin on the period biopic formula. Royal Opera House: The Barber of Seville (Wednesday 15 February); Expect heart-melting serenades, ridiculous disguises and a fairy-tale ending waiting just out of reach. NT Live: Othello (Thursday 23 February); She’s a bright, headstrong daughter of a senator; elevated by her status but stifled by its expectations. He’s refugee of slavery; having risen to the top of a white world, he finds that love across racial lines has a cost.

Enjoy authentic music and dance with Art of Believing (Friday 27 January). Promising to be a truly memorable performance, bringing a taste of pure Flamenco and outstanding musicianship to Hull Truck Theatre. The show hosts an exceptional group of musicians; flamenco singers, guitarists, a violinist, and a dancer, bursting with passion and authenticity. Vibrant and exciting, this is an unmissable Flamenco experience.

Lloyd Griffith: One Tonne Of fun (Wednesday 1 February). Starting 2023 with his biggest tour to date, with a fresh new stand-up show. Since school Lloyd has always been a show-off, doing anything he can to make people laugh, and 20+ years later, nothing’s changed. Expect his unique bag of stand up, dubious impressions, and obviously a sprinkling of his (incredible) singing.

The Time of our Lives (Wednesday 1 February) invites you to come dressed up as your favourite 80’s character to sing along to an 80’s whirlwind of classic movies and timeless soundtracks! From Dirty Dancing to Top Gun, all the hits are here from your favourite 80s blockbuster movies. We’re gonna party like its 1985! Let’s see your Flash dance and Let’s have The Time of Our Lives!

The Noise Next Door: Hometown Heroes (Wednesday 8 February), the quickest wits in comedy are coming to Hull with a side-splitting evening of hilarious off-the-cuff songs, scenes and characters. The stars of ‘Tonight at the Palladium’ (ITV1) will spin comedy gold out of all the things that YOU, the live audience, think is the best, worst and downright weirdest things about your hometown.

An intimate spectacle of identity, where being British, Iranian, and a Hip-Hop head collide in I’m Muslamic Don’t Panik! (Thursday 9 February). From Bristol to the Tehran marathon and back again, Bobak Champion invites us to join him on a journey to accept his own heritage, against a media culture which holds fast to the idea that the Middle East is a frightening and dangerous place. A joyful evening of dance theatre, unearthing hidden truths and challenging stereotypes about this conservative yet thriving part of the world.

Riksteatern and Matthew Linley Creative Projects will present in association with Hull Truck Theatre the funny new play by Anders Lustgarten, The City and The Town (Friday 10 – Saturday 11 February). This unique piece of theatre will bring a fresh perspective to some of the political divides and problems facing our country today, highlighting that memories are tricky and not always the way you remember then.

Comedian Richard Stott returns home to Hull, bringing his new comedy show Afterparty (Saturday 11 February). After finally starting to grow up and liking the adult he’s become, Richard will entertain audiences with embarrassing anecdotes and acerbic one liners. Learn how to be an adult when things haven’t gone to plan, stripping off for a documentary, dating with a disability and an axe fight… all in one blistering hour.

Our visiting programme continues throughout February as Ladies That Dig (Wednesday 15 February) will lead us to discover what it means to grow. Collected from real local interviews this moving comedy-drama is a fertile blend of live music, comedy and true tales. From the team that brought you Ladies That Bus, prepare to be entertained by women who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.

Join the Lindy Hop Dance Company and The Harry Strutters Hot Rhythm Orchestra as they present Swinging at The Cotton Club (Thursday 16 February). With spectacular music and dance, they promise a hot night out with this action-packed show celebrating the music and dance of the Cotton Club – New York’s most celebrated nightclub of the 1920s and ‘30s.

Tortoise and the Hare (Thursday 16 – Saturday 18 February), will bring fun and games to young children (recommended age 4+). Created by Luke Pearson and Tom Saunders, Hull Truck Theatre presents the story of these two best friends as they play board games, sports games, guessing games and new games they’ve invented themselves. It all sounds fun, right? However, Hare is a terrible loser and after losing yet another game to Tortoise, Hare hatches a plan to play a game that Tortoise has no chance of winning. Each show will start with an arts and crafts session followed by the performance.

Expect exhilarating Swing from award winning jazz vocalist and band members, The Clare Teal Four (Saturday 18 February) with a fabulous new show that celebrates hits from the Great American and British Songbooks. Teal’s live shows are constantly evolving, always richly infused with jazz and critically renowned across the country for their fabulous arrangements, interspersed with Clare’s warm and witty storytelling.

Blow Down (Friday 24 February) is a funny and poignant play based on stories collected from the local community. Marking the recent demolition of the iconic cooling towers at Ferrybridge Power Station, this hilarious, gritty and thought-provoking piece comes from the words of those who lived and worked beneath them. From the raucous seventies to recession and decline in the 2000s, it tells the tale of the area offering surprising insights, authenticity and humour.

Mumsy (Thursday 2 – Saturday 25 March) will kick off Hull Truck Theatre’s year of in-house productions with a funny, authentic new play shining a light on three generations of women as they battle through the friendship, drama and love that encompasses mother-daughter relationships. Written by Hull Truck Theatre alumni, Lydia Marchant and directed by Zoe Waterman, tickets for Mumsy are available to book as part of the theatre’s wider drama deal. There are also a number of access performances available including: BSL, Relaxed, Captioned, Touch Tours, Audio Described and Baby Friendly. The Baby friendly performance is intended for caregivers with young children under 18 months old (Fri 17 March). Tickets start from £10, with concessions available. Recommended age guidance: 14+.

Other shows to look forward to in March include James Hudson (Friday 3 March), born and bred in East Yorkshire – a rising star on the UK jazz scene. The Island (Saturday 4 March) is a rich, boisterous, funny, moving piece of theatre. Witness a star of the future with the Comedy Graduates Performance (Wednesday 8 March). As seen on Taskmaster (Channel 4), Mike Wozniak (Friday 10th March). Coming Out of my Cage (Thursday 23 March) will be present an interactive investigation with karaoke.

To book tickets for any of the shows on stage from January – March 2023, please visit: www.hulltruck.co.uk

For Santa-approved gifts… it must be Hull

The countdown’s on and the letters to Santa have been magicked away… now is the time to think local if you don’t want to leave it too late to find the perfect presents for loved ones. Browse the city centre’s unique boutiques, beautiful Victorian shopping arcades, market halls and specialist sellers to find gift inspiration that would do Santa’s elves proud.

Hotspots for independent shops include:

🎁 The Humber Street and Fruit Market area. Look out for unique gifts including stationery from Form, homeware and fashion from 19.4 and green gifts from Plant and Paint.

🎁 Whitefriargate’s LW Plants, Wrecking Ball Music and Books and more.

🎁 The Victorian Hepworth Arcade – the only L-shaped arcade of its type in the country! – and vibrant Trinity Market where traders specialise in everything from new and vintage American clothing at Beasley’s, to specialist audio equipment at Fanthorpe’s Hifi, vinyl records at Spin-it, vintage-inspired boutique Roisin Dubh, craft beer from microbrewery and shop Vittles and Company, fair trade clothes and gifts at Near and Fair, or handmade chocolates at Cocoa Chocolatier, plus many more.

🎁 The Victorian Paragon Arcade for vinyl records from Out Of The Attic Music, children’s gifts from pop-up Bee Bees Boutique, jewellery from Segal’s and lots more.

🎁 Savile Street for vintage finds at Chinese Laundry, and menswear shops including Leonard Silver and Read’s Footwear.

Know what you’re looking for?

🎁 For stocking fillers: Dinsdale’s Joke and Trick Shop in Hepworth Arcade has been delighting customers of all ages for more than 90 years with its classic jokes, tricks, novelties and fancy dress numbers.

🎁 For book lovers: Wrecking Ball Music and Books in Whitefriargate and JE Books in Hepworth Arcade.

🎁 For vintage clothes: Dirty Cash Vintage in Trinity Market for super-rare band T-shirts, Chinese Laundry in Savile Street and Poorboy Boutique in Humber Street for pre-loved and re-worked outfits, as well as handpicked local designs which might include Dead Bod T-shirts, Friends on Every Street designs by Hull artists.

🎁 For comic fans: Amazing Fantasy in Anlaby Road is the place to go if you’re shopping for someone who loves comics, manga, or graphic novels.

Getting here…

Parking is free in Hull City Council-run multistorey car parks on Saturdays and Sundays throughout December 2022. In addition, the council, Stagecoach and EYMS have teamed up to offer discounted bus travel for Christmas shoppers – groups can travel from £5, just ask your driver about Hull Card deals.

Free and low-cost family friendly activities this Christmas holidays

With the Christmas holidays almost upon us, keeping the kids entertained for two-and-a-half weeks isn’t always easy.

Add in the fact that days can be expensive and that the nation is in the middle of a cost of living crisis, it could make life difficult for some families.

To help ease those worries, Hull City Council has compiled a list of just some of the many free or low-cost activities taking place within the city for all the family this Christmas holidays.

There’s everything from live music, museums, workshops and holiday camps, enough to keep everyone entertained.

Trinity Live

The final instalment of Trinity Live at Trinity Market will take place on Thursday 22 December. The evening begins at 6pm, when you will find great live music, tasty food and welcoming crowds.

The weekly live music event has been ongoing since September and gives a platform to many local bands and performers.

As well as the live music, various different market traders support the event by serving up their diverse selection of food and drink.

Enjoy the music, the food, bars and shopping all on offer in the heart of the Old Town – all for free!

Queen Victoria and Hull

Queen Victoria is one of the most recognisable British monarchs across the world and her name is seen throughout the streets of Hull.

An exhibition at Ferens Art Gallery is celebrating Queen Victoria’s relationship with Hull, telling the tale of Victorian Hull and showcasing the long-lasting relationship the throne has with the city.

At the heart of the exhibition, an ongoing partnership with The Royal Collection Trust brings Queen Victoria’s Jewel-Cabinet to Hull, generously lent by His Majesty The King.

This Victorian masterpiece, designed by Ludwig Grüner, was commissioned as a gift from her husband Prince Albert.

It was an important exhibit at the nation’s Great Exhibition of 1851, a celebration of Victorian advancement and cultural sophistication.

Queen Victoria’s Jewel-Cabinet marks the fourth of five exceptional works of art from the Royal Collection to go on display at Ferens Art Gallery as part of the Masterpieces in Focus from the Royal Collection series.

The Queen Victoria exhibition will showcase Hull’s Royal Charters, affectionately known as Hull’s birth certificates, generously lent by Hull History Centre.

Visitors will also see Victorian costume and artefacts from across Hull Museums’ collections. The event is free and opens daily from 10am.

Lord Mayor’s Christmas Tree Festival 2022

Come along to Hull Minster and enjoy the wonderful display of decorated Christmas Trees.
Each tree is decorated or sponsored by a local business.
The Lord Mayor’s Christmas Tree Festival ends on Saturday 17 December, but until then, families can visit for free daily from 10am.

Kings Christmas Children’s Party

Come and join us to celebrate Christmas on Sunday 18 December with an afternoon of party games, festive fun and special guests.

Open from noon, entertainment is from 12:30-2:30pm, with games are aimed at under-10s, but all the family are welcome to Kings at 41 Market Place.

All children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are £5 for adults and £1 for children, plus £1 booking fee.

Santa’s Workshops

Children will be guided by experts to learn how to make beautiful Christmas decorations in one-hour workshops at Hepworth Arcade on Silver Street.

The first will be on Saturday 17 December, when they will have the chance to create Christmas bunting, while on Sunday 18 December, they can design Santa Pants Sweet Pots.

It’s a fun, interactive session where children can learn how to make different Christmas-related decorations!

The workshops are suitable for children aged five and above and cost £2 per child, with accompanying adults not requiring a ticket. You can book your place here.

Free holiday camps and activities

The Healthy Holidays programme is back with a bang, with activity sessions starting on Monday 19 December. In total, 350 sessions will be held over the break – all are free, open to all and include a nutritious food offer.

They take place across the city and include free bookable holiday camps, swimming, ice skating, sports, theatre workshops, go-karting, dance, family-friendly events and so much more!

There are sessions for all ages and a range of SEND-specific activities. Visit healthyholidayshull.org for full details, including session times and booking info.

There’s also a full programme of free activities from Hull Culture and Leisure (HCAL), including float and splash sessions for those aged five to 11 on Wednesdays 21 and 28 December from 2.15-3.15pm.

Places are limited, so booking is essential. Accompanying adults pay £1. Short indoor family tennis sessions are at Woodford on Tuesday 20 and Thursday 22 December at £1 per adult, with children free, and England Netball leads a free camp at Ennerdale Leisure Centre on Tuesday 20 December for those aged eight to 12, with food included.

In addition to these programmes, throughout the Christmas break, the Animal Education Centre in East Park will be hosting several free and low-cost activities for families, including a Christmas trail, zookeeper talks and Christmas crafts where children can create baubles and magical reindeer food.

Hull Ice Arena is open across the holidays, with public, family, under-seven and SEND sessions available.
For more information on all the festive fun, visit healthyholidayshull.org and hcandl.co.uk/sport-and-leisure-and-parks/holidays/christmas-holiday-activities.

Family swim and water play

Frederick Holmes School pool in Hull is hosting family swim and water play for SEND children and their families.
There is a morning session from 10-11am and an afternoon play from 2-3pm on Monday 19 December.
Entry is free for SEND children aged five to 11 and their parents and siblings. You can book your place here.

Hull and East Riding Museum

Enter a world where 235million years of history is brought to life.

From majestic mammoths to Saxon invaders, visitors to the Hull and East Riding Museum of archaeology can look forward to an experience that is unique, educational and fun.

Walk through an Iron Age village, enter a Roman bath house and look at the stunning mosaics. Discover a mysterious crew of wooden warriors and see our medieval treasures!

Entry to the museum on High Street is free with no booking required. Just drop in!

Winter Pattern Art Workshops

Cultural Activity Centre at 70-72 Charles Street will be hosting two Winter Pattern Art Workshops next week.

From 1pm-5pm on Monday 19 and Thursday 22 December, children will make small patterns to help create one big pattern.

The workshops are for children aged five to 11 and those interested simply turn up on the day.

For more information, call 07434 880009 or email groundarts@hotmail.com.

Lego Creations and Make & Take Craft Club

Hull Central Library on Albion Street is hosting two free Christmas events next week.

Christmas Lego Creations will take place from 2pm-3pm on Wednesday 21 December and is suitable for children aged five and above.

Christmas Make & Take Craft Club will be held the following day at the same time and is suitable for those aged four to 14.

Spaces are limited, so booking is essential, including for adults and babies. Under-eights must be accompanied by an adult.

More information can be found here.

All Hull Libraries are also spaces where you can visit to spend time completing jigsaws, playing games or reading.

Friendship with Ukraine concert

Hull City Council Arts Development presents a Friendship with Ukraine concert on Friday 16th December from 7-9pm in the Reception Room at the Guildhall on Alfred Gelder Street.

All are welcome for an evening of festive song and friendship with Hull Freedom Chorus, Freedom Men’s Chorus, Answers on a Postcard and Hull Visual Choir, whilst Singing City will bring people together through song.

Book here

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Humber Street Sesh 2023 – Early Bird tickets now on sale!

Half-Price Tickets Available for Humber Street Sesh 2023 – Celebrating 10 years on Hull Marina

Cut-price, early bird tickets will go on sale online for the region’s biggest music festival, Humber Street Sesh, which will celebrate its tenth anniversary on Hull Marina next year on Saturday, 12th August.

Priced at £10 each (+ booking fee), 3,000 early bird discounted tickets for Humber Street Sesh 2023 will be available from seetickets.com from 10.00 am on Friday, 16th December.

Dave Mays, Humber Street Sesh Festival Director, said, “We’ve been mindful of the cost-of-living crisis and wanted to make the event as accessible as possible by maintaining low ticket prices and putting on a discounted early bird opportunity.”

Following a remarkable sell-out festival in August this year, which saw 18,000 attendees, Sesh Events Ltd, the festival organisers, are now planning a special celebration for the 10th Humber Street Sesh in 2023.

Next year’s festival will showcase over 100 acts, shining a light on regional emerging artists and musicians, as well as some aspirational acts from further afield invited to join the event’s milestone celebration.

With community at its heart, the event will continue to offer family fun, with the much-loved Silent Disco and Team Extreme Skate Park, alongside family favourites – the Hip Hop Amphitheatre with Beats Bus, and the ScrapStore Creative Arts Marquee. Photography and art exhibitions will run across the festival, with flash-mob dances, and street entertainers creating a celebratory carnival atmosphere.

Humber Street Sesh 2023 will also see the festival organisers tackle some environmental issues. As signed up members of the Oh Yes! Net Zero Campaign, Sesh Events Ltd are committed to improving their green credentials, and will be working with the University of Hull, a founding partner of the campaign, to achieve their environmental aims for 2023.

Mark Page, Festival Director said, “Next year’s festival will be a fantastic celebration of the 10th Humber Street Sesh and we’re planning some special touches to mark this. 2023 is also significant to us as we embark on an exciting journey towards net zero with the support of the University of Hull”

Humber Street Sesh 2023, Hull Marina, Saturday, 12th August, midday-11pm Limited Early Bird tickets £10 (+booking fees)

Then General Admission tickets will be £15 (+booking fees). Pay on the gate £20. Tickets can be purchased via seetickets.com.

Free entrance for 12yrs and under, when accompanied by an 18yrs+ fee-paying adult.

Wristband exchange locations TBC

Free Christmas Parking & £5 Group Bus Tickets For Hull Shoppers

To help Hull families with the cost of living this Christmas, Hull City Council is offering free city centre parking and providing funding to cut the cost of bus travel.

Throughout December, shoppers will be able to park for free every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm at the council’s multi-storey car parks on Osborne Street, Pryme Street and George Street. No ticket or purchase is required.

And those who use public transport will not be left off the Christmas gift list, as the council is also subsidising a new Group Day Ticket for travel on Stagecoach and East Yorkshire buses.

Launching on Saturday 10 December, the Hull Card Group Day Ticket will allow a group of up to five people to hop on and off any bus in the city all day.

In the run-up to Christmas, the council will be using existing grant funding to subsidise the cost of the ticket, bringing it down to just £5. The price of the ticket after Christmas will be £13.80.

Additionally, cyclists can make use of bicycle parking in the city centre, including the R-evolution bike hub in Trinity Market and the storage facilities at Hull Paragon Interchange.

Councillor Mark Ieronimo, Portfolio Holder for Transportation, Roads and Highways, said: “At a time where the price of everything seems to be rising, we’re delighted to be able to offer people a little bit of help with the cost of Christmas.

“To make sure this support reaches as many people as possible, this year we’re providing funding to make bus travel more affordable, as well as offering free parking in our multi-storey car parks.

“We hope this will encourage people to shop locally over the festive period and support our wonderful city centre businesses.”

Ben Gilligan, Managing Director of East Yorkshire Buses, said: “We are delighted to support traders in Hull in the run-up to Christmas with this significantly discounted ticket, which will offer great value for families and groups to travel into the city together.

“At a time when many costs are increasing, we are sure families will appreciate this additional option for making a sustainable travel choice”

Matt Cranwell, Managing Director of Stagecoach East Midlands, said: “Stagecoach East Midlands and the Hull Bus Alliance are pleased to be able to offer this new ticket as part of the Hull Card range.

“Daily living costs are increasing for everyone, and Christmas just adds to the pressure. Providing affordable travel for our customers is key as part of our long-term commitment to providing sustainable service across the city.

“This new group ticket will help provide cost-effective travel, and with the support of Hull City Council, it means it can be offered at an exclusive discounted price in the lead-up to Christmas.

“All our Hull Card tickets mean customers can hop on and off any bus in the city to get to where they need to be.”

The new Hull Card Group Day Ticket will be available from Saturday 10 December. For more information on the Hull Card, visit Travel Hull.

The Deep brings Polar Fest to Hull this winter

The Deep is excited to present a winter event, ‘Polar Fest’ in partnership with the British Antarctic Survey and the Scott Polar Research Institute. The event will be a celebration of science and adventure amongst the most extreme elements in the world – the Polar Regions.

Explore the world of polar science including research into topics like the effects of climate change on the Antarctic, plastic in Antarctic oceans, Antarctic food webs, Alien invaders and the history of Antarctic exploration. Find out how researchers live and work in such challenging climates and why the work they are doing is so important, for the planet and all who live on it.

Katy Duke, CEO at The Deep said “We are delighted to be partnering with both the British Antarctic Survey and Scott Polar Research Institute this winter. The Deep is the perfect venue to showcase the fragile Antarctic continent which is so inaccessible yet hugely impacted by the actions of the rest of the world. It’s our opportunity to raise awareness for the ultimate winter wonderland and why it is so important for everyone.”

Make sure you pick up a trail sheet from reception, follow the clues to answer the questions to be in with a chance of winning some polar goodies! Visitors will be able to get hands on and learn real research methods applied by polar scientists and the science of snowflakes. Plus see real stomach content from an Albatross which includes plastics, litter and find out how plastics are effecting the oceans and the species who live in them. Find out how tall you are compared to different species of penguins including an extinct species which was 1.75m tall before warming up with a delicious hot chocolate and a sweet treat.

Continue your journey with a stop by the researcher’s field camp and find out what life is like for a researcher in the frozen Antarctic. Learn about the specialist equipment they take with them from sleeping bags and cooking equipment to different types of clothing to ensure they can survive in one of the most hostile and environments on the planet.

Find out more about the vast array of careers available through the British Antarctic Survey and the diversity of skills required to operate research stations in the Antarctic, from researchers and scientists to plumbers, chefs, cleaners and electricians.

Athena Dinar, who’s head of public engagement at British Antarctic Survey says “Explaining how are frozen worlds are changing in a warmer world is more important than ever before, so we’re delighted to be partnering with the Deep to bring polar science and operations to the general public in the north west.”

Charlotte Connelly, Curator of the Polar Museum at the Scott Polar Research Institute stated “We’re excited to be partnering with The Deep to share our polar research and knowledge with new audiences, in Hull, the home city of so many polar explorers, whaling captains and researchers over the last two centuries.”

For more information, please contact Zoe Montgomerie, Head of Communications & Marketing on 01482 381093 or email zoe@thedeep.co.uk

Enter the new year with Hull Truck Theatre to Enjoy Their New Season Productions

Hull Truck Theatre is excited to be kicking off 2023 with their focus to the future with Mumsy, epic adventures with Around The World In 80 Days and some home truths with The Houses Are Sinking (And The Adults Don’t Care). Expect exciting projects with a variety of co-producing partners both nationally and internationally, alongside some great music and comedy shows, shows for all the family and a diverse program of contemporary work in the Godber Studio to keep audiences entertained as we move through the winter and into the much-awaited Summer months.

Janthi Mills-Ward, Executive Director at Hull Truck Theatre, said:

“We are proud of what we have achieved over the last 50 years at Hull Truck Theatre, it’s been an exciting anniversary year which is not over yet. We look forward to our two Festive productions, ‘A Christmas Carol’ and ‘Jack, Mum & The Beanstalk’, where both shows will focus on the importance of family and community. We also turn our focus to the future with the world premiere of Hull playwright Lydia Marchant’s brand-new play ‘Mumsy’, which will complete our 50^th year exploring the highs and lows of mother-daughter relationships in a highly entertaining and moving comedy.”

Mumsy (Thursday 2^nd – Saturday 25^th March), will wrap up the 50^th anniversary celebrations at Hull Truck Theatre and what better way to go out with a bang then by showcasing one of Hull’s most exciting new artistic voices. Developed through the theatre’s Grow artist development program, Mumsy will be a world premiere of Hull playwright Lydia Marchant’s brand-new comedy. Kicking off Hull Truck Theatre’s in-house productions, this funny, authentic new play shines a light on three generations of women as they push at their circumstances (and sometimes each other) to let their dreams soar. For fans of A Taste of Honey and Motherland, this warm comedy will celebrate new writing, female voices and continue to champion people from the city of Hull.

Character Rachel might not want to change nappies but that doesn’t mean you can’t! Hull Truck Theatre introduces their second Baby Friendly performance, this time for Mumsy (Fri 10 & Fri 24 Mar 2023, 11am). These performances are aimed at adults with babies under 18 months, making sure that your visit is warm, welcoming and hassle-free as possible.

Bethany Sims, Parent in Hull who attended Ladies Unleashed Baby Friendly Performance, said:

“It’s such a rarity as a new mum to find new activities to do together so this was a real treat!! Having all the necessary baby facilities such as baby changing, feeding areas and a play area available was a massive bonus.”

In co-production with Theatre By The Lake, Hull Truck Theatre invite you transport back to the most exciting age of invention in the playful theatrical extravaganza with Around The World In 80 Days (Thursday 4^th – Saturday 20^th May). Based on the novel by Jules Verne, Director Hal Chambers will bring to life a story that experiences a thrilling journey to faraway lands; by boat, by train by sledge and even by elephant, on an epic whirling adventure of wonder danger and romance! Join the ultimate race against the clock in a bold new production of this much-loved classic tale.

Get Inspired for change by Hull-based playwright and poet Josh Overton with The Houses Are Sinking (And The Adults Don’t Care) (Thursday 30^th March – Saturday 1^st April). Based on the opinions, ideas, and voices of the Young Creators Group – talented theatre makers aged 14-18 at Hull Truck Theatre, this bold, thought -provoking and contemporary theatre will ask ‘why we are planning for the future when the future isn’t going to be there?’ Trapped in a place where the future is uncertain and the present is bleak, how do the young stay optimistic? Join Nora and Donnie on their quest to uncover the town’s biggest secret. Why our town? Why us?

Josh Overton, Playwright, said:

“Super psyched to be working with Hull Truck again, making a show with a gang of funny, creative and talented young people inspired by their ideas. It’s a privilege to create work that speaks to young people’s concerns in a world that’s abandoning them more and more and I’m proud of the funny, weird and emotional play that we’ve built together.”

Tortoise And The Hare (Thursday 16^th – Saturday 18^th February), will bring fun and games to young children age 4+ as they follow the story of these two best friends. Hull Truck Theatre’s popular Great Adventures (Saturday 27^th & Tuesday 30^th May) continues to encourage children aged 3-6 and their families to get creative. Take on pirates. Explore the jungle. Journey across the desert. Both Tortoise And The Hare and Great Adventures will feature an arts and crafts session followed by an interactive performance where the children’s craft items come to life as part of the interactive play. Both experiences will offer a wonderful first theatre experience for young children. Twirlywoos (Thursday 13^th – Sunday 16^th April), with beautifully inventive puppetry and Fireman Sam (Saturday 22^nd July) with more adventures in Pontypandy, both promise afternoons of colourful fun and laughter.

Riksteatern and Matthew Linley Creative Projects will present in association with Hull Truck Theatre the funny new play by Anders Lustgarten: The City and The Town (Friday 10^th – Saturday 11^th February). This uniquely political piece of theatre will bring a fresh perspective to some of the political divides and problems facing our country today.

Dritero Kasapi, Artistic Director, Riksteatern (Sweden), said:

“Having brought Nina a story about me and Nina Simone to Hull Truck I am delighted to be returning, but this time to open Anders Lustgarten’s brilliant new play THE CITY AND THE TOWN. I’m excited that Hull audiences will be the first to see this new work ahead of its UK and Swedish tour and am really looking forward to sharing it with you all”

Oh! What A Night (Saturday 14^th January) starts our season of visiting companies where there are plenty of opportunities to let the music play. For one night only, you can be taken back in time on a musical journey through the incredible career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Featuring songs such as Sherry, Let’s Hang On, Big Girl’s Don’t Cry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You! Continue to experience vibrant and authentic music and dance in January with Art of Believing (Friday 27^th January). Promises to be a truly memorable performance, bringing a taste of pure Flamenco and outstanding musicianship to Hull Truck Theatre. The Time of Our Lives (Thursday 2^nd February) invites you to come dressed up as your favourite 80’s character to sing along to an 80’s whirlwind of classic movies and timeless soundtracks! From Dirty Dancing to Top Gun, all the hits are here from your favourite 80s blockbuster movies.

Stand-up comedy to comedy dramas, this season has it all and February has something for everyone to laugh at, starting off the month with four hilarious evenings of entertainment. Lloyd Griffith: One Tonne Of fun (Wednesday 1^st February) starts 2023 with his biggest tour to date. The Noise Next Door: Hometown Heroes (Wednesday 8^th February) returns to spin comedy gold out of all the things that YOU, the live audience, think is the best, worst and downright weirdest things about your hometown. Comedian Richard Stott returns home to Hull, bringing his new comedy show Afterparty (Saturday 11^th February). Packed full of embarrassing anecdotes and acerbic one liners, learn how to be an adult when things haven’t gone to plan, stripping off for a documentary, dating with a disability and a n axe fight…all in one blistering hour. Ladies That Dig (Wednesday 15^th February) will lead us to discover what it means to grow…Collected from real local interviews this moving comedy-drama is a fertile blend of live music, comedy and true tales. Blow Down (Friday 24^th February) is a funny and poignant play based on stories collected from the local community. Marking the recent demolition of the iconic cooling towers at Ferrybridge Power Station, this hilarious, gritty and thought-provoking piece comes from the words of those who lived and worked beneath them.

Have you ever fancied trying your hand at Stand-up comedy? Ever watched a comedy performance and thought you would like to give it a go…now you can. In their final week of Hull Truck Theatre’s Introduction to Stand-Up Comedy course with comedian Kevin Precious, the graduates embark on their first 5-minute sets. Support them in their Comedy Graduate’s Performance (Wednesday 8^th March).

If spoken word and dance is more your cup of tea…I’m Muslamic Don’t Panik! (Thursday 9^th February) combines live music, dance and storytelling as Bobak Champion draws on his identity as a Bristolian, Iranian, Yorkshireman, and Hip-Hop head. Unearthing hidden truths and challenging stereotypes about this conservative yet thriving part of the world. From Hip Hop to the Lindy Hop, take a step back into the 1920’s with Swinging at The Cotton Club (Thursday 16^th February), featuring the Lindy Hop Dance Company and their orchestra, the show celebrates spectacular music and dance, promising a hot night out. Expect more exhilarating Swing from award winning Jazz vocalist and band members, The Clare Teal Four (Saturday 18^th February) with a fabulous new show that celebrates hits from the Great American and British Songbooks. Also performing your favourite Jazz standards, James Hudson (Friday 3^rd March), born and bred in East Yorkshire is a rising star on the UK jazz scene., not to be missed! Tom Dale Company will present a double bill of immersive dance performance with Sub:Version and Surge (Tuesday 18^th April). Presented with Absolutely Cultured, Surge gives life to a future human between the digital and the organic worlds, while Sub:Version explores a hypnotic journey through an array of electronic music.

March and April present famous plays and new recommendations starting with The Island (Saturday 4^th March). This rich, boisterous funny moving piece of theatre is a hymn to the human spirit and a cry for freedom everywhere. The Multi-award-winning, sold-out Fringe sensation Coming Out of My Cage (And I Am Doing Just Fine) (Thursday 23^rd March) is an interactive investigation with karaoke, lip-syncing and absolute bangers that attempts to uncover stories of incredible people – all united by one song; ‘Mr Brightside’. Megson (Thursday 13^th April), create a truly unique brand of folk music, presenting a collaboration between Megson (winners of the Spiral Earth Awards), and playwright Kieran Knowles (Operation Crucible, Chicken Soup). Too Much World at Once (Friday 21^st – Saturday 22^nd April) is a new play by Billie Collins and an urgent coming of age story for our times. Dirty Corset (Friday 28^th April) is about desire, the struggle for freedom and queer love. Set in Yorkshire in 1687, join a company of flea-bitten actors as they try and fail to live up a to their on-stage personas.

Loose yourself in musicals and tap your feet as Hull Truck Theatre presents a variety of musicals and musical shows. Footloose (Wednesday 5^th – Saturday 8^th April), brought to you by the Northern Academy of Performing Arts, this iconic musical, based on the 1984 movie will have you rockin’ out to it’s contagious Oscar and Tony-nominated score, packed full of 80’s hits. Showstopper! The Improvised Musical (Friday 21^st April) returns to Hull for another truly unique evening of smash hit musical comedy. Where audience suggestions are transformed on the spot into all-singing, all dancing productions with hilarious results. One Off Productions return to Hull Truck Theatre with the smash hit Spamalot (Tuesday 11^th – Saturday 15^th July). This award-winning musical based on the 1975 film Monty Python and the Holy Grail is a genuinely funny, laugh out loud production not to be missed. Rock For Heroes (Friday 21^st July) asks ‘where were you when Bon Jovi was Livin’ on a Prayer? Or when Prince was drenched in Purple Rain? Featuring over 20 classic rock songs this will be the night out that you’ve been waiting for.

You asked for more and so we delivered! Simon Brodkin: Screwed Up (Saturday 22^nd April) presents the return of world-famous prankster and Lee Nelson creator Simon Brodkin with an outrageous new stand-up show.

The iconic and original Bouncers (Tuesday 25^th – Saturday 29^th April) is also back in town! In John Godber’s outrageous parody of Saturday Night Fever, relive a night in a Yorkshire disco set in the 80’s. Originally premiering at the Edinburgh Festival in 1977, Bouncers is still one of the most performed plays in the UK today. Don’t miss this classic comedy and northern favourite.

The month of May will bring exciting collaborations and co-productions to Hull Truck Theatre. Modest (May – dates TBC), is a collaboration between Hull-based A Middle child and queer led Milk Presents, two award–winning companies. Music Hall, theatre and drag king cabaret erupts as Modest brings you Elizabeth Thompson – megastar of the Victorian art scene. Northern Broadsides revive their hit regency comedy and New Vic Theatre co-production of Quality Street (Wednesday 31^st May – Saturday 3^rd June). With a good helping of Yorkshire wit this delicious farce returns with a mixture of Bridgerton meets Inside the factory.

Variety will be on offer in June and July as Hull Truck Theatre invites you to enjoy the summer with them. Sully (Tuesday 6^th – Saturday 10^th June) tells the unique sand touching story of how Clive Sullivan MBE, a Welshman, came to be the first black person to captain Great Britain in any sport and led them to World Cup Glory. The Gods The God The Gods (Thursday 29^th June) presents 4 stories; 12 tracks; 3 performers; in this perfect piece of gig-theatre that will take you on a euphoric journey of intimacy, death and faith. Justin Moorehouse (Friday 30^th June) is back! Still funny but middle aged, Justin returns with a brand-new show that may contain: Labradoodles. Come, it’ll be fun. Kevin Precious provides a funny overview of the pitfalls and pratfalls of his former profession in The Reluctant Teacher (Thursday 13^th July). Look out for this second top circuit act, making it a lovely double bill of Edinburgh-bound shows. The Very Best of Tommy Cooper (Wednesday 26^th July) will recapture one of the UK’s most loved comedians. The show will include many of Cooper’s beloved one-liners, dazzling wordplay, and celebrated tricks.

Family Open Day returns (Saturday 17^th June), to once again invite audiences to join Hull Truck Theatre and the Albemarle Music Centre for a fun-filled event. Youth Theatre Takeover Week (Tuesday 14^th – Saturday 18^th March) will see 7-18-year-olds from across the city and region take to the stage to entertain, inspire and challenge you. 2023 will also see a refreshed and renewed Grow, Hull Truck Theatre’s artist development programme.

Hull Truck Theatre is proud to screen some of the best art and independent cinema from around the world. In 2023 theatre will present: NT Live: The Crucible (Thursday 26^th January); Royal Opera House: The Barber of Seville (Wednesday 15^th February); NT Live: Othello (Thursday 23^rd February); Silent Cinema (Wednesday 22^nd March); Royal Ballet: Cinderella (Wednesday 12^th April); Royal

Opera House: The Marriage of Figaro (Thursday27th April); and Royal Ballet: Sleeping Beauty (Wednesday 24^th May). Further dates and titles to be announced throughout the season.

For music lovers everywhere, summer will present a variety of shows starting with the world’s leading tribute to Coldplay; Coldplace (Thursday 15^th June). Celebrating one of the most successful bands of all time, this outstanding band will include your favourite hits – Yellow, Paradise and A Sky full of Stars. For all those who dreamed of going to New York’s Studio 54, Disco Inferno (Friday 16^th June) screams glitter balls and good times. The Pasadena Roof Orchestra (Thursday 22^nd June) changes styles for audiences who appreciate the sounds from a golden era. Listen to the Orchestra as they re-create music from the 1920s and 1930s. The Sound of Springsteen (Friday 23^rd June) brings their live performances to rock you with Bruce Springsteen’s greatest hits and deep cuts. With songs including Born In The USA, Glory Days, and some of Bruce’s most recent hits, including Ghosts. Rave On (Saturday 24^th June) features the greatest hits of the 1950s and 60s, from the likes of Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly and many more. Join Alex Voysey Blues Band in their highly entertaining show Old Dogs New Tricks (Saturday 22^nd July), for fans of the Blues, from Robert Johnson to John Mayer. Nick Cope’s Family Show (Friday 28^th July) is a performance of unique songs for children and their families that have been performed for over 10 years. King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys present Good Time Rhythm and Blues (Saturday 29^th July). With nearly 7000 performances across 27 countries under their belt, join the finale of the season with the world’s greatest jump, jive and swing band.

Christmas Events are on the way!!

For merry moments… it must be Hull

Lights… late-night shopping… Santa spotting in Queen Victoria Square… it can all only mean one thing. Festive season 2022 is officially ON! The big switch-on takes place on Thursday 17 November, and we’re spoilt for choice with outdoor spectaculars, festive markets, fun-packed shows and family activities. Here are just a few highlights to get us all in the Christmas spirit. After all, this is where the magic happens…

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON

Thursday 17 November 2022, entertainment from 5pm, lights 6.45pm. Free. Queen Victoria Square, Hull.

Five… four… three… two… one… Hull’s own Rugby League World Cup winner Connor Lynes is doing the honours and lighting up Queen Victoria Square in style this year. The Physical Disability Rugby League star who helped the England squad romp to victory against New Zealand in 2022 tweeted, “so proud to have been asked to switch on the Hull Christmas lights”. Everyone’s invited to join Connor, the deputy Lord Mayor, DJ Darren Letham, local performers and a VIP direct from the North Pole, for a night of fun and – weather permitting – fireworks.

Plus: Why not make a night of it?

Pop over to St Stephen’s shopping centre for its Christmas Lights Switch-on with Tribfest for more free entertainment from 5pm to 8pm on Thursday 17 November. With Collingwood Primary School Choir, Carrie Martin and Beautiful South/Housemartins tribute act The Beautiful Couch. And don’t miss: Santa’s Arrival Parade from Hull New Theatre at 11.15am on Saturday 20 November 2022. Free.

FREE FESTIVE FUN

The Magic of Christmas

Saturday 26 November 2022, from 10am to 4pm. Free. Museums Quarter, High Street. Meet magical Christmas characters including the sparkly Winter Fairy and mischievous elves, plus Dickensian characters including Scrooge and Bob Cratchit. There’s also live music, storytelling, face painting, craft activities, food and drink and a Christmas Trail.

Countdown to Christmas

Friday 2 December, from 5.30pm to 8pm. Free. Humber Street and Fruit Market. Fruit Market shindig for all the family. Join a festive dance workshop by Holly Gibbs, be dazzled by Ed Grimoldby’s fire show (as seen in Faustus) and enjoy the festive sounds of All For One Choir, dancing from Kingston Swing and vintage songs from Ruth Getz. Plus, late-night shopping and, of course, Father Christmas.

Victorian Kitsch-mas Market

Saturday 10 December 2022, from 9.30am to 3pm. Free. Trinity Square and inside Hull Minster. Craft, food and gift stalls, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and Victorian-style horse-drawn carriage rides.

PANTO SEASON – OH YES IT IS!

If you only go to one show this season, make it a panto.

Jack and the Beanstalk starring Gareth Gates at Hull New Theatre. Tickets from £17.50 plus booking fees.

Jack, Mum and the Beanstalk at Hull Truck. For ages 3+. Tickets from £10. Pay-what-you-can performance available.

Robin Hood: Prince of Thorngumbald, by Middle Child Theatre Company at Social. Tickets from £12.

For more fantastic family events to help spread a little seasonal cheer, see our full Christmas list.

Hull Comedy Festival comes to Hull Truck Theatre this November

Hull Truck Theatre welcomes Hull Comedy Festival back to its stage as the festival celebrates its 15th anniversary. Presenting some of the best local comedy acts, this year’s line-up includes award winning performers, a family-friendly show, local comedy talent plus touring shows with the hottest talent from the UK comedy festival scene.

The Comedy Festival programme at Hull Truck Theatre will run from Wednesday 2 – Saturday 5 November, bringing exciting work to the city and giving audiences the chance to enjoy a variety of fun-filled shows, designed to bring joy, laughter and escapism during a challenging time.

Adam Pownall, Senior Producer at Hull Truck Theatre said:

“Hull Comedy Festival is such an exciting part of Hull’s year, and we enjoy being a venue for the indoor programme and championing new work from our city. I think comedy is needed now more than ever and this is reflected in our audience feedback. People from Hull want to have a good night out, to have a laugh and we hope this programme of shows allows people to enjoy their November with us at Hull Truck Theatre.”

Kicking off the festival is Best of ‘Ull (Wednesday 2 November). A selection of Hull’s comedy talent will return for their annual “Hullarious” showcase in a one-night-only extravaganza, celebrating the city of Hull and reminding audiences that Hull is actually jolly good fun. Hosted by Steve Rimmer, this will be a chance for anyone looking to enjoy a variety of comedy acts in one evening, where you will be able to celebrate the different forms of standup with performances from Lucy Marti, Andy Woolston, Paul Connell, Jed Salisbury, Rosie Francis, Haseeb Malik, Milly Armstrong-Clark, and Rich Austin.

Jack Gleadow: Jack’s Entertainment (Thursday 3 November) sees Jack return to his hometown with more old-school comedy for the modern age. As a Leicester Mercury Champion and multi-award-winner, Jack is in huge demand on the live comedy club scene, performing in top UK comedy clubs such as The Glee Club, Manfords and Just The Tonic. If you missed him at Edinburgh Fringe Festival earlier this year, then make sure you catch this feel-good, funny show which delivers jokes, gags, stories and much more.

Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust’s Stand Up for Health Stars comedy event (Friday 4 November) will raise money for local NHS services. A portion of all ticket sales will go directly to the Health Stars charity, which promotes the development of exceptional health and social care services in Hull and beyond. Through their investment in environments, resources, training, and research, they will add that ‘extra sparkle’ to local services and help create meaningful experiences for NHS staff, patients and their loved ones.

Hull’s comedy duo Jeddy Bear & Gary Live (Saturday 5 November) will bring family audiences in Hull a show full of games, music, and dancing. Nominated for ‘Best Kids Show’ at the Leicester Comedy Festival and UK Kids’ Comedy Festival awards, they’ll be full of mischief entertaining the adults as much as the children, with audience participation and pie facing madness.

Pottervision (Saturday 5 November), a show about four performers recreating Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone. With audience participation, ridiculous impressions and jokes aplenty, Pottervision is the Harry Potter parody show that has something for everyone. A sell-out at Edinburgh Fringe Festival three years running and a total must-see.

With more songs and the constant threat of audience interaction Sirens (Wednesday 9 November) will close Hull Comedy Festival at Hull Truck Theatre. Let Piscean comedy duo Norris and Parker lure you into their fever dream for a surreal hour of wild, nautical madness. Debauched sketch comedy for lovers of the strange, the sordid, the musical and the dark.

Tickets for Hull Comedy Festival are now on sale and available to buy online: https://www.hulltruck.co.uk/whats-on/