Royal and Derngate Theatre

A stunning celebration of Mike Oldfield’s greatest hits. Internationally renowned maestro Phil Toms and his 10-piece electro orchestra deliver an outstanding signature concert to the Music Master Mike Oldfield performed at the highest level. Based on note for note transcriptions, additional highlights include Moonlight Shadow, To France and selections from Oldfield’s instrumental albums including Hergest Ridge, Ommadawn, Return To Ommadawn, The Songs Of Distant Earth and Tubular Bells 2. Rarely performed live in the UK, this is an outstanding signature concert to the Music Master Mike Oldfield performed at the highest level. Not to be missed.

Join the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) for an epic orchestral afternoon at the Royal & Derngate with internationally acclaimed violinist Clara-Jumi Kang. Please note that this programme has changed from earlier published versions. Please note the change of conductor for this concert. Ben Glassberg Conductor Clara-Jumi Kang Violin Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Hisaishi Encounter for String Orchestra Sibelius Violin Concerto Beethoven Symphony No.5 The first five bars of Beethoven’s iconic Fifth Symphony, possibly the most famous opening motif in classical music history, portend something mysterious and momentous. Filled with turmoil and beauty, this orchestral masterwork will leave you awestruck long after its triumphant finale. But that’s not all: the evening opens with a delightful new miniature from the RPO’s Composer-in-Association Joe Hisaishi (Spirited Away), and Clara-Jumi Kang brings her world-class insight to Sibelius’ brooding yet passionate Violin Concerto. Bringing together folk and classical styles, this timeless piece gives both soloist and orchestra a chance to shine, from its expressive and passionate beginning through to its spirited, dance-like final movement. ‘A vibrantly intense performance… direct yet sensitive and her technique throughout was marvellously secure and commanding… The powerhouse articulation and accuracy in the finale was phenomenal.’ – Limelight on Clara- Jumi Kang playing Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto, November 2024

Jimmy Tarbuck OBE, one of the most popular household names from the golden era of British stand up, is back with a bang. The much-loved entertainer is on tour through the spring and summer 2026 with his solo show An Evening With Jimmy Tarbuck which stops off at some of his favourite towns and venues in the UK. And he can’t wait. An Evening With Jimmy Tarbuck will see the acclaimed comedian and raconteur reflecting on a remarkable life in showbusiness, the seeds of which were sown in childhood. Jimmy will present a hugely entertaining mix of anecdotes and jokes, including recollections of his many years presenting Sunday Night At The London Palladium which shot him to fame in 1963. There will also be stories from Jimmy’s childhood, growing up in Liverpool where he was classmates – and good mates – with John Lennon. And of course, his golfing life, which has proved to be a rich source of entertainment and celebrity both on and off the course.

After a sensational 2025 that saw over 60,000 Tina Turner fans across the UK singing, dancing, and having the time of their lives, What’s Love Got To Do With It? is back and bigger than ever for 2026! This electrifying tribute show celebrates the music and unparalleled career of the one and only Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Tina Turner. Get ready for an unforgettable evening of high-energy, feel-good rock and soul, brought to life by a phenomenal live band. Packed with all the classic hits you know and love, the show delivers showstopping performances of Proud Mary, River Deep – Mountain High, Simply The Best, Private Dancer, Nutbush City Limits, and many more. Stepping into Tina’s iconic heels is Kent’s own Holly Bannis, the daughter of Greg Bannis, former lead singer of Hot Chocolate. Holly’s rise to center stage is as inspiring as it is exciting. Growing up in a musical family, Holly honed her craft for over a decade performing semi-professionally before an audition on ITV’s Starstruck changed her life. “I had to audition as three of my musical icons, and Tina was an obvious choice for me. During lockdown, I studied her performances obsessively, getting into her moves, her walk, and her energy.” It wasn’t long before the...

Nigel Kennedy, one of the most distinctive and influential violinists of his generation, returns home to the UK with Virtuoso, his first major national tour in over fifteen years. Renowned for his uncompromising artistry and singular style, Kennedy has performed at the world’s leading concert halls, from Carnegie Hall to the Sydney Opera House. This tour offers a rare opportunity to experience his work live in performance at Royal & Derngate. The programme brings together classical repertoire with jazz and contemporary influences. It includes Bach, Kennedy’s own interpretation of A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square, and original compositions, including a tribute to his mentors Yehudi Menuhin and Stéphane Grappelli. He is joined by long-time collaborators Alec Dankworth on bass and Peter Adams on cello, forming an exceptional ensemble of musical sensitivity and precision. Kennedy’s landmark recording of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons established him as a defining figure in modern classical music. His performances continue to be marked by technical brilliance and emotional depth. An opportunity to experience one of the great violinists of our time, a true virtuoso. “One of the most important violinists Britain has ever produced” – The Guardian