Ernestine Ashworth turns 17, then 18, then 41, 70, and 101. Across five generations, countless dreams, and a single cake baked over a century, she reflects on her place in the universe.

Rocket Theatre Company presents "Birthday Candles" by Noah Haidle, a poignant play that explores the dichotomy of human existence—our lives are both unique and unremarkable. It follows Ernestine Ashworth from her rebellious teenage years, when she vows to surprise the universe, to old age, where she reflects on a life marked by both joy and loss. Through a series of birthdays, anchored by the tradition of baking a cake, Ernestine navigates love, heartbreak, and the inevitable chaos of life.

Content Warnings: Death

£7 Standard

£6 Concession

£6.50 DST Members

This event takes place at Sir Thomas Allen Assembly Rooms Theatre

Doors will open at 7pm, the performance will start at 7.30pm and finish approximately at 9pm.

‘Pour yourself a cup of ambition’ and book your tickets, as DULOG meets Dolly Parton in this hilarious and heart-warming tale of friendship, female empowerment and fighting for what’s right!

Based on the classic comedy film from 1980, ‘9 to 5: The Musical’ follows a trio of hard-working women and firm friends who, fed up with slaving away for their sexist, self-absorbed boss, plan to put him through a little office payback… With its cast of witty and wise-cracking characters, spunkily subversive message of standing up against The Man, and a pitch-perfect country-pop score by the iconic Dolly Parton, DULOG kickstarts its 75th anniversary year in style with this fun and feisty musical – ‘enough to drive you crazy if you let it!’

Content Warnings: Sexual harassment / Sexual content and innuendo / Strong language

£8.50 Standard

£7.50 Concessions

£7 Durham Student Theatre Members

This production takes place at the Sir Thomas Allen Assembly Rooms Theatre, 40 N Bailey, Durham, DH1 3ET.

This performance begins at 7.30pm (2.30pm on the matinee), and doors open 30 minutes before the performance begins.