What's On In Dudley and the Black Country



Silverdale Hotel 60 Sedgley Road West Tipton Dudley West Midlands DY4 8AD Tel: 0121 557 5050 Fax: 0121 557 5050 enquiries@silverdalehotel.com

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WHAT'S ON IN DUDLEY
Entertainment And Events in Dudley & The Black Country

Dudley Museum & Art Gallery-The Greeks - Myths, Legends and Heroes

The Greeks - Myths, Legends and Heroes exhibition opened on 26th April 2006 and will run until 31st March 2008. Greek culture of the classical period has had one of the most lasting influences of any culture anywhere in the world. This is celebrated in the latest two year exhibition to arrive at Dudley Museum and Art Gallery. The exhibition consists of artefacts drawn from half a dozen Museums across the length of the British Isles and comprises about 150 items from tiny coins to huge Greek urns (Kraters). Enter the world of The Greeks as you step into our reconstructed Greek Temple. The exhibition includes a series of displays celebrating; Men and Women, trade, warfare and literacy. The Age of Greek Heroes is not forgotten with a case of artefacts dating back to the Greek stone age. Many items on display are made of pottery. The unsurpassed abilities of the Greek potters are celebrated in another show case. What sets this exhibition apart from other museum displays is the creative and imaginative way in which the team at Dudley Museum has chosen to display the artefacts. The whole gallery has been decked out with pediments and columns to give the impression that you are really in Greece. Although the exhibition harks back to Ancient Greece the information is displayed using computer screens. There are also interactive exhibits such as a magnifying camera to examine coins, a chance to practise writing in Greek and the opportunity to try on a Greek set of armour or lift a Greek sword.
Dudley Museum & Art Gallery is open Monday to Saturday; 10am to 4pm. Admission is FREE. Schools A small charge is made for the educational programme. For school bookings or further information please telephone 01384 815575.

Click on the link for a copy of theTeacher's Pack

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April 12th - Dudley Castle - GHOST HUNT AT DUDLEY CASTLE AS SEEN ON LIVING TV'S 'MOST HAUNTED LIVE'!!
Dudley Castle was originally built in around 1071 by Ansculf of Piquigny as a Motte & Bailey fortification. It is registered in the Domesday Book of 1086 as belonging to his son, William. In 1130 it was rebuilt in stone by Ralph de Paganel before being 'slighted' (demolition of the castle's defences) in 1175 under orders of Henry II as punishment for Gervaise de Paganel's rebellion against him. It remained unfortified until permission was granted by the court in 1264 and during the next 60 years there were many additions to the castle, including the two Gatehouses that still stand today. However, controversy surrounding the reconstruction as the man responsible, John de Somery allegedly robbed and murdered in order to obtain the funds needed for the work. This lent him the nickname of 'The Robber Baron'. The castle fell into the hands of the de Suttons in 1321, and again much work was done to the building. It remained with the de Suttons until around 1536, when John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland took control of it and ordered it to be rebuilt as a renaissance palace, one of the earliest examples of its kind in England. Unfortunately for John Dudley, he was accused of instigating the plot to make his daughter-in-law, Lady Jane Grey, the queen, and was executed shortly afterwards. The Castle then became property of the Suttons, before the last of them, Frances, Baroness Dudley, married into the Ward family. During the Civil War it was held for the Royalists, but fell to Parliament in 1646 and was 'slighted' once again in 1647. And so it appears today, aging respectfully and still magnificent in its sprawling ruins. Dudley Castle is one of the most haunted castles in the world, with many, many ghosts that have been seen for hundreds of years. Its most famous and frequently seen is perhaps that of Dorothy Beaumont, otherwise known as 'The Grey Lady'. She lived for a time at Dudley Castle, but hers was a life of tragedy, giving birth to a daughter who died after only a few months. It is said that Dorothy then died of grief shortly afterwards, and because neither of her dying wishes could be granted (to be buried next to her daughter and for her husband to attend the funeral) it is said that she wanders mournfully all over the Castle grounds. She is most often seen by the entrance to the Castle keep, and in tribute a pub was recently opened in the grounds called the 'Grey Lady Tavern'. Since opening though, this building has been the focus of strange occurrences, alarms go off in the middle of the night for no reason and staff have experienced extreme drops in temperature, accompanied by a strange blue mist that floats through the bar. Allegedly, the most haunted area in Dudley Castle is the Chapel Undercroft. Situated in this ancient room is a large stone coffin, rumoured to have once contained the remains of the Castle's most evil and feared Lords, John de Somery, or 'The Robber Baron'. On several occasions people have witnessed a pair of ghostly legs standing by the side of the coffin, believed to be John himself paying a regular visit to the place he perhaps still thinks he owns and rules over. Other spirits in the Undercroft include that of a little girl, who many people claim to have been touched, pulled or prodded by. On one occasion she even flipped a chair over in front of an astonished group of paranormal investigators. On another investigation a black shadow was caught on camera, and several groups have experienced a strange 'grinding' sound coming from the Chapel on the floor above. Upon investigation of course, there is no-one there and the sound has ceased. Other ghosts of Dudley Castle include that of a drummer boy, killed by a single bullet during the Civil War, who is heard on many nights, drumming out his warning for all around. However it is considered bad luck to see or hear him, due to the ill luck that befell him, being killed by a single shot from one of the most inaccurate firearms ever invented, the 17th Century musket. There are countless other ghostly tales to tell on the night, during a candle-lit tour of the Castle and its grounds, and if you are especially lucky then later on during the night you might meet one or two of the characters involved in those tales... An Eerie Evening at Dudley Castle Includes: ~ Welcome Drink in The Grey Lady Tavern ~ Three Course Meal by Candlelight ~ Talk by a Local Historian and Civil War Re-Enactor ~ Platform Readings from our Spiritualist Mediums ~ Psychic Workshop with Experiments ~ Ghost Walk of the Castle and Grounds ~ Late Night Ghost Hunt & Paranormal Investigation ~ Opportunity to use Ghost-Hunting Equipment ~ Refreshments Throughout *The event will run from approx. 7.30pm - 2.30am* Ticket Price: £89
TICKETS
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25th April - Dudley Concert Hall -JETHRO

The legendary Cornish Comic returns with another bout of heavyweight belly crunching comedy. Contains adult material!
TICKETS
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26th April - Dudley Concert Hall - QUEEN ON FIRE - Tribute Band

Originally formed in 1994, the band has developed into what some critics claim is Europe's number one Queen tribute band. Their hard work and dedication has resulted in them headlining at sell-out shows throughout the UK, Europe, Malta and Signapore. The show features classic Queen hits such as Bohemian Rhapsody, Killer Queen, We Will Rock You and We are the Champions.
TICKETS
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MAY 2008

Kum-n-avaloff Comedy Club - Thursday 1st May - Wollaston Suite, Stourbridge Town Hall

Our monthly stand-up comedy event brings you a clutch of up and coming comedy talent from all over the UK, with curry and rice included.

TICKETS
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Black Country Museum - Saturday 3rd May - Marston Collection and It's a Gas!

It's a Gas! On the first Saturday of every month volunteers bring the gas engines to life in the Cinema Power House and the Trap Shop. Visitors can learn how they work and hear the belt driven machinery hum into life. Marston collection, Historic vehicles from the Marston collection will take a spin of the Museum's circuit. Motoring marvels from the early 1900s up to the 1930s take centre stage and these rare gems are sure to be the torque of the town! The Marston group are often on site carrying out vital restoration work.
Black Country Museum
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Black Country Museum - Monday 5th May - May Day and Tug Boat Event

The May Day celebrations get off to a colourful start as Maypole dancing weaves its magic in the school yard. Colourful ribbons fly as professional dancers demonstrate the age-old tradition. Visitors are encouraged to join in and have a go, with the professionals passing on some top footwork tips and traditional music setting the beat! Tug Boat Event Visitors can enjoy messing about on the water as tug boats pull a train of joeys along the cut, making a rare sight as they manoeuvre their way along the canal arm. Traditional canal crafts and streets games will also be available.
Black Country Museum
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Black Country Museum - Saturday 10th May - It's full steam ahead

It's full steam ahead on every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month from the 1st March to December inclusive when the colliery steam winder and fan engine are in steam.
Black Country Museum
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Black Country Museum - Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th May - Organ Grinders Weekend

Organ grinders will be hitting the right note as barrel organs and fairground organs descend on the Museum for some old-fashioned musical entertainment.
Black Country Museum
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7th - 10th May 2008 - Dudley Little Theatre - Stepping Out by Richard Harris
The Mavis Turner Tappers rise again! By popular demand we are reviving an audience favourite. For those of you who remember and for those of us who don't, we present this story of a group of would be tap dancers, who battle with each other, the pianist and their own left feet to take part in a charity fund-raiser. So bring your dance shoes and let the music begin - maestro please.
TICKETS

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10th May - Dudley Concert Hall - JIM DAVIDSON

Jim Davidson - The Devil Rides Out Hilarious, x-rated and controversial as ever. From his original breakthrough in New Faces in 1976, Jim Davidson has gone on to become one of the UK's most successful and controversial comedians. Star of family shows 'Big Break' and 'The Generation Game' Jim is also a stage professional with theatre and panto credits under his belt. He's spread his wings with DVDs, an autobiography and tours for British Service personnel on duty abroad, but the stage remains his true home. This new live show is set to entertain fans of this wild, sometimes controversial, always popular performer. Set to sell out. Over 18s only.
TICKETS
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Black Country Museum - Sunday 11th May - Pleasant Sunday Afternoon

Visitors are invited to enjoy 'A Pleasant Sunday Afternoon' service in the Museum's historic Darby Hand Chapel and become part of living history. The Methodist Chapel was built as Providence Church in 1837 at Darby Hand in Netherton, Dudley. The PSA is a special service originated by John Blackham of West Bromwich which became an international organisation. The Friends of the Museum recreate this important aspect of Black Country life when they re-enact the 'Pleasant Sunday Afternoon'. The service begins at 2.30pm
Black Country Museum
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Black Country Museum - Saturday 17th May - A Night at the Museum

As part of the European “Nuit des Musees” celebrations, enjoy a traditional evening's entertainment when the Black Country Living Museum throws open it's doors after hours. The Museum's village is illuminated by gas and candlelight and visitors can chat to the many costume characters they meet there. Tuck into tasty fish and chip – cooked 1930s style and enjoy a pint of real ale in the bottle and Glass Inn. Special half price family ticket admits 4 adults and 2 children.
Black Country Museum
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Black Country Museum - Sunday 18th May - Veteran Bicycle Day

Bicycles from the late Victorian period through to the 1930s will be in action around the Museum. Among the many exhibitors will be examples of the once thriving Black Country bicycle making industries.
Black Country Museum
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Black Country Museum - Sunday 18th May - Austin 10 Rally

Motoring enthusiasts are in for a treat as pre-war Austin 10 motor cars tour the Museum's 26-acre site.
Black Country Museum
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Black Country Museum - Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th May - Newcomen Engine billows to life

Every 3rd weekend the Newcomen Engine billows to life from February to November inclusive. The only full sized working replica of the world's first steam engine can be seen in action. Due to the unpredictable nature of the Newcomen please check running details with the Museum prior to travelling to avoid disappointment.
Black Country Museum
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21st May - Dudley Concert Hall - We'll Meet Again

A talented cast of singers, comedians and musicians recall the heyday of wartime entertainment with a tribute to the great stars including Bing Crosby, George Formby, Max Miller, Gracie Fields and Vera Lynn. Back again by special request with a new programme.
TICKETS
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Black Country Museum - Saturday 24th May – Sunday 1st June - Half Term Activities

Half term week coincides with the Museum's 30th birthday and, to celebrate, events and activities will take place throughout the week. Four street parties, one to represent each of the Black Country boroughs - Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton, will be held at the Black Country Living Museum to celebrate the Museum's 30th birthday. A party atmosphere will ensure a half term to remember. Street games including hoops, hopscotch, whip and top, skittles and a variety of parlour games will ensure the young and the young at heart are absorbed for hours!
Black Country Museum
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Black Country Museum - Saturday 24th May - It's full steam ahead

It's full steam ahead on every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month from the 1st March to December inclusive when the colliery steam winder and fan engine are in steam.
Black Country Museum
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Black Country Museum - Saturday 31st May and Sunday 1st June - Summer Living History Weekend

Time travel is on the agenda at the Black Country Living Museum. The Friends of the Museum spend the weekend living in 1920s conditions. Visitors can witness their attempts to cook, clean, eat, sleep, entertain and take part in summer seasonal activities without the modern luxuries that we take for granted today such as central heating and hot and cold running water.
Black Country Museum

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JUNE 2008

Black Country Museum - Saturday 24th May – Sunday 1st June - Half Term Activities

Half term week coincides with the Museum's 30th birthday and, to celebrate, events and activities will take place throughout the week. Four street parties, one to represent each of the Black Country boroughs - Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton, will be held at the Black Country Living Museum to celebrate the Museum's 30th birthday. A party atmosphere will ensure a half term to remember. Street games including hoops, hopscotch, whip and top, skittles and a variety of parlour games will ensure the young and the young at heart are absorbed for hours!
Black Country Museum
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Black Country Museum - Saturday 31st May and Sunday 1st June - Summer Living History Weekend

Time travel is on the agenda at the Black Country Living Museum. The Friends of the Museum spend the weekend living in 1920s conditions. Visitors can witness their attempts to cook, clean, eat, sleep, entertain and take part in summer seasonal activities without the modern luxuries that we take for granted today such as central heating and hot and cold running water.
Black Country Museum
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Dudley Zoo - 3RD,4TH,12TH JUNE 2008 - BARNARDOS BIG TODDLE

Want to do your bit for charity? And find a reason to get the kids exercising in the fresh air? We’ve found the solution – The Barnardo’s Big Toddle. This annual half-mile sponsored walk for under 5’s saw almost 400,000 toddlers from across the UK register in 2007, raising £1.4 million for Barnardo’s work with disadvantaged children and their families. BARNARDOS BIG TODDLETaking part in the Barnardo’s Big Toddle is a great way of teaching children about those less fortunate. This year we hope to see more Toddlers than ever joining in, having fun and helping us to raise vital funds for vulnerable children throughout the UK.” Funds raised via the Barnardo’s Big Toddle 2008 will be spent across the charity’s services working with young children and their families; including projects for children with disabilities, family centres, play schemes and helping to lift children out of unsuitable or temporary accommodation. For more information on how to register,visit our Barnardo' Big Toddle website
WEB SITE Tel:08452709900
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Black Country Museum - Saturday 7th June - It's full steam ahead

It's full steam ahead on every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month from the 1st March to December inclusive when the colliery steam winder and fan engine are in steam.
Black Country Museum
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Black Country Museum - Saturday 7th June - Marston Collection and It's a Gas!

It's a Gas! On the first Saturday of every month volunteers bring the gas engines to life in the Cinema Power House and the Trap Shop. Visitors can learn how they work and hear the belt driven machinery hum into life. Marston collection, Historic vehicles from the Marston collection will take a spin of the Museum's circuit. Motoring marvels from the early 1900s up to the 1930s take centre stage and these rare gems are sure to be the torque of the town! The Marston group are often on site carrying out vital restoration work.
Black Country Museum
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Dudley Zoo - Saturday 7th June 5pm to 10pm - Tudor Evening Experience

Sir Robert Cecil's men present a Tudor Evening Experience at Dudley Castle.
The evening show will include:
* Juggling Music & Dance
* Romeo and Tybalt's Sword Fight
* Children's activities including a Hobby Horse Combat
* Sword Master Display
* Hamlet's duel with Laertes
* Henry V Battle of Agincourt
A wondeful experience for children and adults alike, the green inside the castle will be turned into an Elizabethan set and a Tudor encampments will be recreated, which you can wander through, talking to different characters and looking at the reproduction Elizabethan costume and artefacts.
Tickets: £10 per adult & £6 per child
Website:www.tudor-events.co.uk

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Black Country Museum - Saturday 7th June – Sunday 22nd June - Trolley 21

Trolley buses from all over the world gather at the Black Country Living Museum to celebrate the 21st anniversary of the trolley bus service at the Museum.
Black Country Museum
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Black Country Museum - Sunday 15th June - Father's Day

Celebrate Father's Day at the Black Country Living Museum where dad's of all ages can enjoy a day to remember. Father's come in free when accompanied by a paying child
Black Country Museum
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