Enjoy a bit of magic

OPERALUNA will present The Magic Flute at the Ellis Theatre at Marlborough College tomorrow.

Heritage Opera, Northwest England’s professional touring opera company, is delighted to be returning to Marlborough for the fourth time with a playful version of Mozart’s mystery drama.

It is a production full of fantastic creatures, a singing Birdman, a Prince and Princess, a dark Queen, a wise Philosopher, magical musical instruments, a fierce dragon and even some helpful mermaids!

Set to sublime, timeless music, this performance - part pantomime, part opera - will have you rooting for Prince Tamino as he embarks on a noble quest to rescue the Queen of the Night’s daughter, Princess Pamina, from the clutches of Sarastro and his followers.

A story about growing up, and facing life’s sometimes difficult choices, this beautiful comic masterpiece has been delighting children and adults alike for 226 years, with its combination of heart-warming comedy and true heroism.

The Meadow opens at 5pm, with the performance starting at 6.30pm, and there will be a one-hour interval so visitors are invited to bring along a picnic. Tickets cost between £15 and £30. There are no booking fees although there may be delivery charges. To book, call 01793 524481 or visit swindontheatres.co.uk.

Who is that band?

WHO’S Next pay homage to one of the most popular bands of the last 50 years tomorrow in Swindon.

The current line up of The Who are on tour in Las Vegas so to get a taste of the raw excitement of these giants of rock, drop in to the Victoria in Victoria Road, Old Town when Who’s Next will be riding a time machine back to the days of Live at Leeds, The Isle of Wight Festival, Tanglewood and the Fillmore shows.

Who’s Next are Gary Charman, lead singer, Dante Gabriel DiCarlo on guitar, Craig Addecott on bass and newcomer Rusty Apper on drums.

Gary said: “We are a hard working live tribute to The Who, and capture a magical point in time when The Who were the greatest live rock ‘n’ roll band around. Our live show aims to recreate this period with an explosive live sound and stage act.”

Who’s Next have different sets including one that is performing Quadrophenia in its entirety. The show is a multimedia experience incorporating film and music as the audience are treated to Jimmy’s musings as his story unfolds.

This classic rock opera features such gems as The Real Me, Bell Boy, 5:15, Drowned and the ultimate rock ballad Love Reign O’er Me.

Other sets are the My Generation Hits 50 Tour celebrating the music of The Who between 1964 and 1967.

Their Greatest Hits set includes all the adrenaline-fuelled classics such as I Can’t Explain, Substitute, Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere, Pinball Wizard, Sparks, My Generation, Baba O’Riley and a show-stopping version of Won’t Get Fooled Again.

Tickets to see the band in Swindon, from 8.30pm, are £8 from 01793 535713.

Back to the future of motor cars

THE Auto & Retro Festival showcases the heritage of classic vintage sports car legends and looks to the future with the latest automotive icons.

It’s the ideal location to get up close and personal with the cars and the enthusiasts from Austin Healey to Porsche.

With children’s entertainment, play area, champagne bar, vintage tea room, automobilia, super and classic car display, club stands and retro trade exhibitors, it’s sure to be a great family day out.

Lydiard House, church and walled garden are also open.

The Auto & Retro Festival is from 10.30am to 4pm tomorrow.

Tickets are £9 for adults and £3 for children aged three to 16.

Book at autoretrofestival.co.uk/tickets/4591627473