Events manager at Parr Hall, Chris Persoglio guides us through his picks for the first half of the year at the famous venue

IT’S been another eventful and, fair to say, challenging year and I think most of us have relished the chance to take a much-needed escape from it all this Christmas.

In that spirit, we hope that everyone has had a great time with their family and friends and that Santa put you on the ‘nice list’.

The festivities always come and go so quickly don’t they? So before we look ahead to 2023, we’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who joined us for Christmas nights out at Pyramid and Parr Hall.

Events like For Those About To Rock, guitarist Pete Price’s annual concert, Comedy Store and Warrington’s historic Male Voice Choir have become something of festive traditions.

Warrington Guardian: Chris Persoglio, venue and events manager at the Parr Hall, speaks on its return to entertainment - Pictures: Dave Gillespie

We love getting your feedback about the brilliant nights out you’ve had and your support means the world to us.

That’s because we’re acutely aware that many families are feeling the pinch during this cost-of-living crisis and, as a charity, we really appreciate the money you choose to spend with us.

After all, it wasn’t long ago that we had to close our doors due to the pandemic or run events hampered with restrictions.

Now we finally feel like we’re back to full strength and can once again really provide the service and atmosphere our historic town centre venues have become renowned for.

There is nothing else quite like it when our well-loved Parr Hall is packed with people and bursting with the sound and energy of people singing and laughing.

So a very Happy New Year to all Warrington Guardian readers. Our 2023 programme is already shaping up to be one of our best with everything from family favourites like Wallace and Gromit to household names like Lulu, plus much more yet to be announced.

Here are some of our Parr Hall highlights over the next few months and we can’t wait to welcome you back to Palmyra Square…

Dick Whittington, January 6 to 15

Our much-loved family panto, produced in partnership with our friends at Tony Peers Ltd, is something we always look forward to after the Christmas chaos is out the way.

This year, it’s the rags to riches tale of Dick Whittington starring Milkshake’s Amy Thompson.

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We’ve done our very best to keep prices as low as possible for this traditional treat as we don’t want anyone to miss out.

Dara O’Briain, Parr Hall, March 2

Loveable Irish comedian Dara O’Briain is probably best known for comedy panel game Mock the Week which he has hosted for an incredible 18 series.

Other highlights have included The Apprentice: You’re Fired and Stargazing Live.

Now he can’t wait to return to the stage with his usual mix of stories, one-liners and audience teasing.

Fisherman’s Friends, March 3

The remarkable true story of these traditional Cornish singers completely captured the nation’s hearts in two hit films. Now you can spend an evening with the real ‘buoy band’ when they come all the way from Port Isaac to sing for their supper at Parr Hall.

Paul Smith, April 6

We’ve been truly overwhelmed by the phenomenal response to Paul Smith performing at Parr Hall so we can’t guarantee any tickets will be left by the time you read this! This will be hotly-tipped Liverpool comic’s second Warrington show of 2023 yet we’re still facing huge demand. Come and see what the fuss is about.

Francis Rossi, April 21

He's been rockin' all over the world but now Status Quo legend Francis Rossi is ready to show fans his quieter side in 'Tunes and Chat'.

Warrington Guardian: Francis Rossi comes to Exmouth in August

Expect tales, anecdotes and amazing encounters from more than 50 years in the music biz.

The Wrong Trousers Live, April 23

It’s the 30th anniversary of Wallace and Gromit – The Wrong Trousers in 2023 and, to celebrate, the much treasured animated classic and Academy Award winner is coming to the big screen alongside a live brass band! Stockport’s acclaimed The Fairey Band have teamed up with Aardman Animations to present this very special family concert.

Lulu, May 28

Described as a ‘once-in-a-lifetime insight’ into the star’s incredible life, Lulu – For The Record will see the award-winning singer share her behind-the-scenes stories of rising to the top of the music industry and working with some of the biggest names in pop.

Warrington Guardian: lulu.jpg

This is the first and probably only time Lulu will share her experiences so don’t miss out.

For more information visit parrhall.culturewarrington.org or call our box office on 01925 442345.