Karl Loxley – Songs from the Stage & Screen 2026

BACK BY HUGE DEMAND AFTER A PHENOMENAL SHOW IN 2025

Rated by Sir Tom Jones as having one of the best theatrical voices he’d ever heard!

Join Karl for an unforgettable night of music with songs from The Greatest Showman, The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, The Lion King and many more.

Karl is a Chart Topping Classical Singer who appeared as a finalist on the Hit TV Show The Voice.

‘What a show! One of the best voices I’ve ever heard at the Gatehouse.’ – Audience feedback, March 2025

Strange But True Crime

Stranger than fiction: explore the world’s most shocking and

unbelievable crime cases, including:

1. The serial killer who gained work in law enforcement whilst on the run – and

was then tasked with hunting himself!

2. The researcher whose career began after an encounter in a lift with a serial

killer – who had just killed his latest victims, and was carrying a bag believed

to be holding their decapitated heads.

3. The female, balloon-carrying killer clown.

4. One woman’s plan to get a prolific serial killer released from prison by

committing a copycat murder of her own… and her connection to yet another

serial killer!

5. The 14-year reign of terror one child snatcher inflicted on locals, whilst

wearing a terrifying mask and makeshift claws.

6. The hunt for a phantom female serial killer whose DNA was found at over 40

crime scenes spanning 18 years… who did not exist.

7. Serial Killers on game shows – how their appearances led to their

identification.

8. Plus learn how the police could have DNA, fingerprints or an eyewitness tying

you to a crime you did not commit!

Simon and Garfunkel Through the Years

Simon & Garfunkel Through the Years is the most authentic sounding concert to the unforgettable music of Simon & Garfunkel.

Made up of Dan Haynes & Pete Richards, Bookends have toured the globe extensively with their concerts being described as ‘simply breath-taking’. Performing the songs in a truly captivating way, against a backdrop of iconic imagery, their delicate recreation of the unmistakable sound of the American folk-rock duo is something of a masterpiece.

Bookends have been performing their unique, world-class concert to audiences in some of the finest theatres and concert halls across the UK, Europe and the United States.

Hear many of the hits such as The Sound of Silence, Mrs Robinson, The Boxer and Bookends’ own beautiful rendition of the unforgettable Bridge Over Troubled Water.

This is without doubt the closest thing to Simon & Garfunkel touring the world today.

Man In The Mirror 2026 – A Tribute to Michael Jackson

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the legendary KING OF POP!

Introducing “Man in the Mirror” – the must-see, electrifying tribute concert to Michael Jackson. Starring CJ, one of the world’s top Michael Jackson Tribute Artists, and supported by a talented cast, this show captures the essence of Michael Jackson’s unique style and charisma.

Enjoy all his greatest hits, including “Thriller”, “Billie Jean”, “Beat It,” “Smooth Criminal” and “Man in the Mirror.” With dazzling choreography, stunning visual effects, and authentic costumes, this production pays tribute to Jackson’s musical legacy.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or experiencing the magic of Michael Jackson for the first time, join us for a night like no other. Don’t miss out on this thrilling experience!

The Drifters in Concert

The legendary group have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, listed among the greatest artists of all time by Rolling Stone magazine and have produced an incredible list of hits, including; Saturday Night At Movies, Come on Over to My Place, Up On The Roof, Under the Boardwalk, Kissin’ In The Back Row and many, many more!

Now, in their 66th Anniversary year, The Drifters are back performing with a brand-new line up hand-picked by Tina Treadwell herself – President of the Treadwell Entertainment Group and owner of The Drifters brand.

Tina’s father started the group with Clyde McPhatter and brought in several greats thereafter such as Johnny Moore and Ben E King. Her mother Faye was later responsible for bringing the group to the UK and overseeing hits such as ‘More than a number’ and ‘Sitting in the back row’

Tina believes this current group is one of the best to date and is very excited about the upcoming international concert tour.

Don’t miss your chance to witness and be part of this latest chapter in the incredible story of – The Drifters.

The ELO Show

BACK BY HUGE DEMAND

The brainchild of Brian Cummins who has performed all over the World with some of Prog Rock’s biggest names, this stunning band of musicians really take you on a trip down memory lane with one of the best concert you will ever see.

With eight band members in total, all lead vocalists in their own right, including a female three piece string section, THE ELO SHOW go to the minutest details to bring you as close to the originals themselves.

Add to this one of the best visual shows around incorporating a massive lightshow and a bespoke 3D video screen this high powered assault of classic hit after classic hit will truly be a night to remember.

 

The Psychology of Serial Killers with Jennifer Rees

Join true crime speaker Jennifer Rees to explore one of Forensic Psychology’s most troubling topics.
During this talk, you will discover how serial killers are classified.

What are the differences between lust killers like the BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) Killer and visionary killers such as David Berkowitz (Son of Sam)?
Jennifer will explore the different categories, using case studies to illustrate. She will also debunk common Serial Killer Myths – you may be surprised by what you learn!

Jennifer will discuss the typical differences between males and female serial killers, again, incorporating case studies to illustrate.
You will also investigate the phenomenon of killer couples such as Fred and Rose West and The Moors Murderers Ian Brady and Myra Hindley, as well exploring the Folie à deux syndrome a.k.a ‘shared psychosis’. Why do women fall in love with known serial killers?

Jennifer will discuss the clinical knowledge surrounding why serial killers gain admirers, fan mail, and even spouses in light of their atrocious crimes. Learn about Hybristophilia, and the astounding case of the Night Crawler’s trial.

How common are homicidal fantasies? Have you ever fantasised about killing someone?

You may be surprised by the results of the research!

Identifying John and Jane Does – how are victims identified? You will watch a fascinating time-lapse video of facial reconstruction on the skull of a discovered body.

Gatehouse Theatre Tour

Join us for a backstage tour of the Gatehouse Theatre!

Our expert guides will reveal the story of Stafford’s magical venue from its beginnings as the historic Borough Hall right up to the modern day.

There’s a chance to see the dressing rooms, hear about how shows are put together, the stars who have played here and take a peek at our famous Green Room window wall and its dozens of famous autographs.

You might even get to meet some of our resident ghosts!

Places are limited to 10 and the tour involves some stairs, so please bear this in mind when booking.

Includes a hot drink and scone in the coffee shop in the ticket price. What an absolute bargain.

‘Absolutely fascinating – we loved it.’

‘So many interesting stories and things we never knew about.’

‘Brilliant – a real insight into a fantastic working theatre.’

 

Sleeping Beauty Pantomime 2025/2026

MUST END THIS SUNDAY (Jan 4)! 

Not long left to see the show that has smashed Gatehouse Box Office records – and left audiences laughing for days on end!

Book NOW for magical Mark Rhodes, dame David Phipps-Davis and super Samantha Spragg in SLEEPING BEAUTY!

When the wicked fairy’s evil curse causes the Princess to prick her finger on a spinning wheel and fall into an enchanted sleep, can anyone rescue her from the magical slumber before it is too late?

What do you think?? Well with more jokes than EVER before, superb musical numbers, a live band and full professional cast this is set to be the biggest and best Gatehouse panto ever.

Also featuring panto veteran IAN BILLINGS as King Louis, TikTok sensation FINLAY MCKILLOP as Prince Rufus, Staffordshire star EMILY VINNICOMBE as Fairy Flutterby and sensational SOLEIL QUARLESS as Sleeping Beauty herself, there’s something for all the family in this laugh-a-minute show.

Make your dreams come true and join us for the sensational family pantomime Sleeping Beauty!

Family tickets: Two adults and two children, discount automatically applied at checkout. 

Book your VIP Food and Drink panto package here! 

 

Stafford Shakespeare presents: HAMLET

LAST FEW PERFORMANCES: MUST END SATURDAY, JULY 5

‘To be or not to be, that is the question.’

Stafford Shakespeare proudly presents HAMLET in 2025.

Starring BENEDICT SHAW (Boat Story BBC, The Syndicate, Emmerdale) and directed by award-winning RICHARD CHESHIRE, The Bard’s twisty tale of madness, murder and revenge is one of his best-loved plays.

Hamlet returns home from university to find that, not only is his father newly dead, but that his mother, Gertrude, has quickly married his father’s brother, Claudius, who is now king.

The royal turmoil has led to threats of invasion and one night soon afterwards, the ghost of Hamlet’s father appears to him, accusing Claudius of his murder and urging Hamlet to revenge.

But how will Hamlet succeed? Thus begins a tale of madness, betrayal and revenge that threatens to destroy both kingdom and family.

Burnished with William Shakespeare’s most-quoted lines, this is a production that brings to life some of the most famous characters in history.

In keeping with the very best traditions of Stafford Shakespeare, it seeks to present one of The Bard’s best-loved plays in a fast-paced and accessible way to suit modern audiences.

‘It’s going to be something very special,’ Richard Cheshire, Director, HAMLET

PLEASE ENSURE ALL PHONES ARE EITHER OFF OR ON SILENT MODE DURING THE PERFORMANCE. THANK YOU. PLEASE NOTE: NO PHOTOGRAPHY IS PERMITTED.