Culture, Comedy, Music and Drama was abundant during The Riverfront’s 15th year. The Welsh stage success Grav played a full house back in March while Welsh Mational Opera’s contemporary resetting of Don Pasquale delighted audiences in May. Comedy legends Griff Rhys Jones and Paul Merton raised smiles during the year while musician Elio Pace returned to The Riverfront with a new Billy Joel albums show, bringing along Billy’s original guitarist, David Brown as an extra treat!
Griff Rhys Jones raised smiles at The Riverfront in November 2019.
Griff Rhys Jones
UK Tour, The Riverfront, Newport
November 2019
Griff’s observations quickly take on a geographical theme, with photographic evidence to back it up. His visit to Newport is illustrated with several selfie images taken on his mobile phone. These include humorous looks at the City Hall Clock Tower, a tattoo parlour and fast food shops.
Paul Merton’s Impro Chums was a comedy highlight at Newport’s Riverfront Theatre.
Paul Merton’s Impro Chums
UK Tour, The Riverfront, Newport
June 2019
Scenes around a Barry White song performed in a Rhino enclosure, a dinner date with a half chicken/woman, squirrels doing dressage and a lost Shakespeare play – Piglet – set on the River Usk, kept the Impro Chums busy
Grav played a packed theatre at Newport’s Riverfront.
Grav
Torch Theatre, The Riverfront, Newport
March 2019
Meticulously researched and beautifully portrayed, Grav is a truly special presentation bringing you into the heart of one of Wales all-time greats for 75 minutes.
A new interpretation of Don Pasquale played The Riverfront.
Don Pasquale
Welsh National Opera, The Riverfront, Newport
May 2019
Very Welsh, very funny and very operatic, the Welsh National Opera’s new take on Don Pasquale retains its classic edge while remaining contemporary.
Elio Pace and David Brown brought the music of Billy Joel to The Riverfront
Elio Pace, David Brown & The Billy Joel Songbook Band
UK Tour, The Riverfront, Newport
October 2019
What immediately struck me about Elio Pace was how engaging he was with the Newport audience. Well presented in his red suit, he talks passionately, not only of Billy Joel but also the man’s music.