CODEBREAKERS – The Story of ENIGMA

This show by Dr Mark Baldwin is one of the Second World War’s most fascinating stories is that of the Allied Codebreakers, who deciphered a vast number of German secret messages and used the intelligence so gained to hasten Allied victory. The Germans had entrusted their secret communications to an ingenious ciphering machinethe Enigma, which was portable, easily operated, and could be set up in millions of ways. The codes were used and every one was changed every 24 hours.The Allies gained invaluable information about troop and aircraft dispositions, orders of battle, U-boat movements, technical development, military intentions and tank and artillery strengths. It is generally reckoned that the intelligence from Engma shortened the war by about two years.

Dr Mark Baldwin has made a detailed study of the Enigma machine, the code-breaking work at Bletchley Park, and U-boats and has built up a unique collection of slides which illustrate the main features of those important facts of the Second World War. He has prepared an entertaining instructive show on this subject.

The show is divided into two parts. It is followed by an opportunity for questions, then a hands-on demonstration of one of the very few surviving Enigma machines.

“We had nearly 800 people in the audience who went home having thoroughly enjoyed the

evening. I was well satisfied, and wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Dr Mark Baldwin”

Cindy Hardy, Prince’s Theatre, Clacton

The Story of MTV’s Unplugged Sessions

Step into a world where music breathes again — raw, real, and deeply moving. UNPLUG’D is a stunning live production that celebrates the golden era of MTV Unplugged, capturing the heart

and honesty of stripped-back performance.

This unforgettable show brings to life the spirit of the original sessions that defined a generation — where legendary artists traded stadium spectacle for intimacy, storytelling, and pure musicianship.

From Nirvana’s raw intensity to Eric Clapton’s soulful blues, George Michael’s velvet vocals to Paul McCartney’s timeless charm, UNPLUG’D delivers an evening of world-class musicianship, passion, and nostalgia.

Rediscover the beauty of live music — unfiltered, unforgettable, and completely UNPLUG’D

Recommendations

Dave Hills*****

Unplug'd take you on a soulful, acoustic journey of beautifully reimagined classic hits, everything from REM

and Duran Duran to A-ha and Nirvana!

Vocals are heartfelt, and the pure musicianship of the band captures the true spirit of the show - intimate,

raw...and Unplugged!

Not to be missed!

Katie Bobbett*****

More than a concert - it’s a living history of the MTV Unplugged era. Insightful, inspiring and beautifully

performed.

Theresa Munn*****

What an incredible night! The Story of MTV Unplugged completely blew me away. The musicians

were absolutely first-class — every song was performed with real passion and skill. You could feel

the energy in the room from start to finish, and the crowd loved every moment.

It felt like being part of something special — pure, live music played by people who truly love what

they do. If you get the chance to see this show, don’t miss it!

Website : https://www.unplugd.uk/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unplugdtributeband 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unplugdtributeband/ 

The Alter Eagles are delighted to be coming back to the Exchange for the fourth time, bringing with them a brand new theatre show for 2026 that celebrates their 21st year of touring. Since their debut gig in 2003, the Alter Eagles have established themselves as one of the country's top tribute acts, headlining at theatres all over the country, playing a mix of old and new Eagles' songs. Expect all the classics - including Hotel California, Take It Easy, One Of These Nights, Take It To The Limit, Desperado, Lyin' Eyes and Life In The Fast Lane - as well as Henley, Frey and Walsh solo numbers like Boys of Summer, The Heat is On and Rocky Mountain Way, along with some deep cuts and plenty of sweet country harmonies and rocking twin guitars.

The band members are Steve McCormack (vocals, guitars)  Alan Tomkins (keyboards, guitars, vocals) Rob Beattie (bass, acoustic guitar, vocals) Mike Bradley (guitars, vocals) and Ed Chisholm (drums, percussion, vocals). Find out more by visiting the band's website at www.altereagles.co.uk.

"World class." - Lemonrock Gig Guide

"Pitch perfect harmonies." - Brighton Evening Argus

"A joy to watch." - East Anglian Daily Times

"One of the best tribute bands I can remember seeing." - Windsor Observer

"The Alter Eagles brought more than a little American West Coast harmony to a warm English West Coast St Ives - they were perfect." - St Ives Times and Echo

"Opening with the acapella harmonies from Silver Dagger and segueing in to Take It Easy, just as The Eagles did in some of their live shows back in the 1970s, The Alter Eagles pumped out hit after Eagles hit, along with their own brand of humour and excellent communication with their audience."  NEWBURY TODAY

Website: https://www.altereagles.co.uk 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlterEaglesUK 

Instagram: https//www.instagram.com/altereagles