Juggling babies, toddlers on stilts and teaching young Joey to ride his first unicycle are all part of everyday life for single dad, Joe Butler, in this poignant, family love story involving the ever-changing relationship of a father-and-son double act.

Using a unique blend of physical theatre, circus skills, original songs and live music, The Battling Butlers is a study of role reversal and the inevitability of change, as the old order makes way for the new.

Based in Penzance in Cornwall, Bash Street Theatre has built an international reputation over the last 30 years, performing silent-comedy, street theatre shows throughout the UK, Europe and beyond.

The Battling Butlers is a real family affair, performed by father and son, Simon Pullum and Loki Pickering, with original live music from Julian Gaskell.

Mad Dog Mcrea blends a unique mixture of folk rock, pop, gypsy jazz, bluegrass and ‘shake your ass’ music. From self-penned songs of adventure, drinking, love and life, to traditional songs of gypsies, fairies, legless pirates and black flies – Mad Dog never fail to capture their audience with their infectious songs. In constant demand and having played just about every festival and two-bit, jibe-arsed dive in Christendom, Mad Dog Mcrea are, in every sense of the word, a live, band.
Matched with the unshakable dedication of their massive and “loyal-to-the-hilt”, fan base – Mad Dog Mcrea are more than just a very popular, festival act – with five albums under their belts, they are serious and acclaimed recording artists too. December 2019 saw Mad Dog Mcrea release a 5-track EP titled ‘It’s a Sign’.
The famous purple happy bus is fired up and ready for action, and there’s room for you – jump aboard!

This fully live energetic show charts the life and career of one of the world’s iconic performers, Tina Turner, the Queen Of Rock.

Full of hits including Private Dancer, Nutbush City Limits, Proud Mary, River Deep Mountain High and Let’s Stay Together to name but a few, this show is the ultimate night out.

Starring Julie Nevada as TINA.

Powerful vocals, live band, backing singers and fabulous professional dancers with electrifying dance routines makes TINA LIVE ‘Simply the Best’ night out of the year! Please note: This production was originally titled The Tina Turner Experience

“The best West End show not in the West End” – Gary Scott, BBC Radio Kent

The Alex Voysey Blues Band presents ‘Faux Bonamassa’

‘A brilliant night – Alex Voysey’s guitar playing is out of this world’

The Alex Voysey Blues Band brings together 4 stunning musicians to reimagine the genius of Blues Titan, Joe Bonamassa. Heavily influenced by Bonamassa’s distinctive playing style, musicianship and creativity in his own performances and songwriting for several years, Alex’s new show brings together tracks from the last 2 decades of Bonamassa albums blended with his own personal style of virtuosity, exceptional improvisation and contemporary blues mastery.

Expect to hear all of your Bonamassa favourites including ‘Sloe Gin’, ‘The Ballad of John Henry’, ‘Athens to Athens’, ‘Woke Up Dreaming’, ‘Dustbowl’, ‘A Conversation with Alice’ and many, many more.

‘Alex Voysey is not only a superb musician but plays with a feeling and a passion that is true to the meaning of the blues’

‘Fantastic night and a huge talent’

www.alexvoyseymusic.com

The Trouble Notes

Sitting somewhere between traditional folk, modern classical, and tribal dance music, The Trouble Notes have travelled their way across continents in search of musical influences.

The band has proudly built its multifarious audience independently – known colloquially as “The Troublemakers”- a testament to their self-made success story that has led to major festival appearances, multiple film scores and an extensive tour schedule spanning the globe.

The core of the band consists of violinist Bennet Cerven, guitarist Florian Eisenschmidt, and percussionist Oliver Maguire. Bennet began his training as a classical violinist at 4 years old, performing in orchestras and winning soloist competitions in his youth. After graduating from University, he had a brief career working in Wall Street before leaving New York City for Europe fueled by the vision of The Trouble Notes. Bennet would meet Oliver in London in the summer of 2013, and their musical bond has held since the day they met. After an extended stint in London, they moved to Berlin where Florian joined to make them whole.

In 2017 a series of videos of the band performing on the streets in France and Germany went certified viral, amassing more than 100 million views on social media and bringing them international notoriety. They recorded their debut album Lose Your Ties at Riverside Studios in Berlin, Germany working with Lebanese producer Khalil Chahine. The album was released in February 2018 and peaked in the top 10 of the iTunes charts for their genre in France, Germany and the USA. Their music has been featured in award-winning films and documentaries, and their headline Lose Your Ties tour featured sold-out concerts in Europe and North America. They have performed live on television in the USA, Japan, Brazil, Germany and France. In 2019, they toured supporting Rodrigo y Gabriela as a part of their Grammy Award-winning Mettavolution tour.

MARTY & OLIVIA WILLSON-PIPER

A career-spanning musical journey, including songs from solo albums, Noctorum, MOAT, and The Church, realized with 12-string guitar and violin.

“After playing together in South America in 2016, Olivia and I set about discovering the possibilities of the 12-string acoustic and the violin, currently interpreting songs from my own back catalogue and adding a completely new magical layer to tunes that you thought you knew, taking them to new planets, new dimensions and new emotions.”

Best known as a member of Australian luminaries The Church (from its inception in. 1980 through to 2013), Marty Willson-Piper has been writing and performing music for almost four decades. He was also a member of All About Eve and The Saints and has co-written music with Grace Slick, Aimee Mann, Jules Shear, Susanna Hoffs and Linda Perry, among others. Today he represents one-half of Cornish duo Noctorum. Marty is also lead singer and lyricist with Swedish band MOAT and a member of Swedish Prog legends Anekdoten, joining in 2015. Since the mid-1980s, Willson-Piper has maintained a steady solo output as well, with nine releases to date.

Born in a leap year near Cologne with a Polish surname to a Swedish air hostess mother from Västmanland and a German scientist father from “Kraftwerk” city Düsseldorf (who is currently designing bricks for a future moon station), Olivia Willson-Piper started playing the violin when she was nine years old and joined an orchestra at eleven. Playing concerts in Sweden, Russia, Lithuania, Spain and Germany, she became the leader of the orchestra at 18. During her Uni years, she focused on busking, jam sessions and Jazz violin.

The Willson-Pipers have been featured on Noctorum’s fourth album, The Afterlife, are members of Atlantæum Flood and were part of MOAT’s 2021 release Poison Stream (Schoolkids Records).

www.martyandolivia.com

Do you know the story of Diana? Probably. But do you know our story of Diana? We very much doubt it.

Join Diana in heaven as she shares the untold and untrue tale of her extraordinary life.

Combining drag, multimedia, audience interaction, puppetry and a lot of queer joy – this unique celebration of the people’s princess is as hilarious as it is tasteless.

A brand new show from harbingers of theatrical chaos Awkward Productions, written and performed by Linus Karp and is created with support from Arts Council England, The Pleasance London, Lighthouse Poole and Arts at the Old Fire Station, Oxford.

The show follows our previous productions on how to live a Jellicle life: life lessons from the 2019 hit movie musical ‘cats’ and Awkward Conversations With Animals I’ve F*cked.

This show contains flashing lights, strong language, audience participation and Camilla Parker Bowles.

Praise for previous work:

“Really enjoyed, Linus Karp was great” – Edgar Wright
“So much FUN” – James Graham
“Funny and unsettling” – Mark Gatiss
“Twink” – Deborah Frances-White
“Hilarious” – Gay Times
“A Fringe Hit” – Time Out
“Brilliantly Bonkers” – The Stage
“Too many penis jokes” – The Guardian
BEST CABARET AT EDINBURGH FRINGE 2022 – Theatre Weekly
British Comedy Guide’s Best-reviewed Edinburgh Fringe shows 2022
“Irresistible, joyous and unmissable” ★★★★★ — The Review Chap
“Exceptionally creative and hilariously funny” ★★★★★ – Everything Theatre
“The tonic we all need” ★★★★★ — London Theatre
“Insanity at its greatest” ★★★★★ — Epigram
“Endearingly nerdy and hilariously horny” ★★★★★ — Three Weeks
“Witty, unique and sidesplittingly funny” ★★★★★ — Theatre Reviews UK
“Truly in awe” ★★★★★ – Theatre Weekly
“Highly entertaining” ★★★★★ – Theatre and Arts Review
“Why I love theatre” ★★★★½ — West End Best Friend
“Fantastically queer, outrageously fun” ★★★★½ —Theatre and Other Things London

China Crisis

China Crisis were never your run-of-the-mill 80s pop band. Formed in Liverpool by singer Gary Daly and guitarist Eddie Lundon, they distilled their love of David Bowie and Steely Dan into an exquisitely melancholy post-punk sound that saw them win their just chart rewards. Has there ever been a more wistful Top 10 hit than the charming Wishful Thinking?

Their hero Walter Becker – of Steely Dan fame – was so impressed he even became a band member back in 1985, producing and playing on the Top 10 album Flaunt the Imperfection, and returning for 1989’s hugely acclaimed Diary of a Hollow Horse. And, all the while, the hits kept rolling in… Christian, Black Man Ray and King in a Catholic Style all made their way into the UK Top 20.

£25 Seated / £23.50 Standing

Chasing Mumford – Europe’s No.1 Mumford & Sons Tribute

Established for 7 years and having supported big names such as Scouting for Girls, Toploader, The Hoosiers, B*Witched, Pixie Lott, The Wurzels and more, Chasing Mumford are a 5-piece fully live band of multi-instrumentalists with beautiful 5 part live vocal harmonies and the image to match.

They effortlessly capture the energy of the folk-rock festival sound and recreate up to 2 hours of the stadium highs and intimate simplicity of Mumford & Sons’ broad musical style, complete with lighting, pyrotechnics and 14 instruments. Their offering is sure to delight Mumford fans and indie-folk lovers alike.

Recording across two nights, join Cornish comedy legends Kernow King, Anna Keirle, Tamsyn Kelly and special guests for big laughs as they record their new BBC Radio 4 comedy sketch show.

With a cast including top comedians Kernow King, Anna Keirle and Tamsyn Kelly, we invite you to the recording of a brand new BBC comedy: the Cornish sketch show, Wasson Cornwall.

From Tig, the outspoken anti-second home activist (and her ludicrous forms of protest), to the new gritty Cornish TV drama The Tamar… Bridge – via Wheal Martyn Lewis (the shrapnel saving expert), clueless fortune teller Sue Xanadu and baffling Cornish TV gameshow Where My Keys To? – this new comedy is filled with brilliant funny recognisable Cornish characters and situations.

Written and performed by the very best comedy talent in Cornwall, this is a sketch show celebrating all things Kernow… and with bite. No subject in Cornwall goes untouched. We’ll poke fun at tourists who look down on locals whilst also proving – once and for all – that Cornwall is definitely the centre of the universe. Right on!

Doors Open 6.30pm

Tickets are Free (+£1 booking fee). However, the Acorn Theatre is a charity, and any donations would be greatly appreciated. 🙂

Malavita! (The name at least) was conjured up on 21st February 2013 whilst on a flight to Cuba. A culmination of good friends, a love of music, and a lot of determination set this project in motion many years before, but a chance collision of fresh blood, renewed fire in their bellies and using world music to inspire the group was reincarnated as Malavita!  Their genre-defying sound fuses funky Latin beats, heaps of percussion, soaring guitars, skanktastic bass lines, punchy horns and soulful female vocals to create a heady mixture of original, infectious feel good tunes. 8 eclectic, fun-seeking musical misfits originating from Italy, France and the Deep South (Westcountry) come together to inspire you to dance, sing along and lose your inhibitions. Collectively on a mission to start the party and keep the dance floor jumping with their festival-strength tropical sounds.

The group have enjoyed several summers full of gigs and festivals. They have played the epic Boomtown Fair, Greenman, Isle of Wight, Kendall Calling, Treufest, Beautiful Days, Port Eliot Festival, Tunes in the Dunes, Looe Music Festival, Tropical Pressure and Sunrise Festival, to name a few. After a brief pause for the Pandemic, 2021 saw them back doing what they love at The Bimble Inn and paling the Main Stage at The Great Estate Festival just before the almighty Dutty Moonshine Big Band. 2022 highlights have been playing Plymouth Pavilions alongside “Land of the Giants”, being booked to play Tropical Tea Party at Hootananny Brixton and also being asked to play at Bahrain Jazz festival, where the band will be performing their first international show in December.

They are regulars at some of the best music venues in the South West and have played at The Trinity Centre, The Canteen, The Leftbank &  Mr Wolfs in Bristol, The Bell Inn, Bath, The Phoenix & The Old Firehouse in Exeter & The Barrel House in Totnes. In London, Malavita! have played Hootenanny Brixton, The Magic Garden in Battersea. They have supported the superb Molotov Jukebox, Dutty Moonshine Big Band, The Undercover Hippy, Electric Swing Circus, The Cat Empire, and The Brand New Heavies. Recent highlights have been The Bimble Inn @ Beautiful Days, Chai Wallah @ Greenman and Kashmir Cafe @ Isle of Wight Festival. Chai Wallah has supported the band and booked them for several shows, including their 20th Birthday party in Bristol at The Crofters rights, which sold out in record time and had them as part of their roster for Greenman and Kendall Calling.

Malavita! released their first E.P., “we ain’t makin biscuits”, in 2014 and have since recorded their latest E.P “Flamingo Lingo”, at Cube Recording Studios in Cornwall, released in April 2018 and available now across all digital platforms and on beautifully illustrated CD. 2020 was an unusual year, to say the least, but even a global pandemic couldn’t stop them from writing. “Up in Smoke”, the new single with video, has just been released, and ‘Wild Ones” will follow towards the end of this year. 2023 looks to be an exciting year with new music, fresh recordings and plenty of festival bookings in the diary already.

o-region presents

TRE

Mary Martin is home.

As she walks the streets, towans and beaches of the small Cornish town that had been her world, powerful memories awaken and simmer.

‘Thought I’d go for a walk.  Lay some ghosts to rest’.

TRE is a complex story about family, forgiveness and finding yourself in the face of lost dreams.

o-region presents a pilot tour of this searing new play by Sarah Connors,

NOTE:  This performance contains strong language and adult themes and is not recommended for anyone under the age of 14.

Performed by Mary Woodvine  

Directed by Simon Harvey.

LORD OF THE FLIES

“We’ve got to have rules and obey them. After all, we’re not savages. We’re English; and the English are best at everything.” Ch. 2 The Fire on the mountain.

Lord of the Flies explores the dark side of humanity, the savagery that lies underneath the most civilised of human beings. Who can imagine that this is possible?

Maybe there is a Beast ….. maybe it’s only us.

Aged 10+

Gilmore & Roberts

Contemporary folk/acoustic duo Gilmore & Roberts combine award-winning songwriting with astounding musicianship and their trademark harmonies to create a powerful wall of sound.
Nominated three times at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, Katriona Gilmore (fiddle, mandolin) and Jamie Roberts (guitar) met while studying at Leeds College of Music and released their debut album in 2008.
Since then, the duo have toured Canada and mainland Europe, played some of the UK’s biggest acoustic festivals, toured with folk rock legends Fairport Convention and won countless accolades for their genre-spanning work. Gilmore & Roberts released their fifth studio album, A Problem Of Our Kind, in October 2018.

Sherlock Holmes/The Last Act

The world’s greatest fictional detective confronts the most complex case of all – his own psyche. Fine wit, broad humour, high drama – a touch of pathos – ‘elementary’ aspects of this original and entertaining solo play.

It is 1916.  Drawn from two years’ retirement after the funeral of his friend, Dr Watson, Holmes returns to Baker Street to resolve ‘the last act’ of his epic career.

The play explores the mind of the real man; a secretive and unexpectedly passionate man, with a cutting sense of humour.

Stripping away the infamous clinical façade, Holmes reveals fears, weaknesses, and the devastating consequences of the dramas of his formative years.

Written by Conan Doyle expert David Stuart Davies and directed by award-winning Gareth Armstrong.

It shows the man behind the myth, exposing the great detective’s fears and weaknesses, the devastating consequences of the dramas of his formative years, and, unexpectedly, his cutting sense of humour.

Kernow King

Roche boy.

Anna Keirle

Anna has a cheeky comedic storytelling style. Described as a bumpkin in her first ever review, she has, however, won the Weakest Link.

Performing as a stand-up locally and internationally, a quick witted, responsive MC, she has experience from festivals, and clubs to prestigious events.

Mimi – winner of Cornwall Comedian of the Year 2022

Mimi is a Bodmin based new comedian who was shocked to win Cornwall Comedian of the Year 2022 back in May on her 3rd ever gig! She is high energy performer, super scatty and armed with a ukulele to accompany her sweet but sour observations!

And…Mab Hudel.

Written and directed by Edward Rowe and shortlisted for several Audience Choice awards, Mab Hudel is the first Cornish language film to play at the London Film Festival. Mab Hudel (which means Magical Son) tells the story of young farmer and rugby player Enys, who under the shadow of his deceased father wrestles with his sexuality.

The Barefoot Bandit are a heavy-weight ensemble based in the South-West, UK. The band mixes various musical styles, incorporating elements of reggae, punk rock, dub and world music.

Building a strong and loyal fan base, TBB have spread their sounds far and wide. Packed-out shows at prestigious venues such as the Electric Ballroom in Camden have seen The Barefoot Bandit become a must-watch act on the UK touring and festival circuit.

Festival highlights include appearances at Glastonbury Festival, Boardmasters, Boomtown Fair, and more including headline slots and main stage displays at some of the UK’s favourite music festivals.

Having reached #4 in the iTunes reggae charts, TBB have self-released 2 EPs. Both records have received national airplay from the likes of legendary DJ David Rodigan on BBC Radio 1 Extra and numerous plays on BBC Introducing.

The Bandit has had the pleasure of supporting renowned artists such as Lee “Scratch” Perry, Katchafire, The Cat Empire, Easy Star All-Stars, Dubioza Kolectiv, Gentleman’s Dub Club, Horace Panter & Lynval Golding (The Specials) and have been regular openers for electronica dub favourites, Dreadzone.

The group are gearing up to release their debut album later this year, which was recorded at the illustrious Karma Sound Studios in Thailand.

Mishra

In 2022, global-folk band Mishra met international fusion vocalist Deepa Nair Rasiya. Out of a blossoming musical friendship, they began a collaborative project that takes the soul-stirring euphoria of Deepa’s sufi singing as a starting point, and weaves in the threads of Mishra’s UK folk and Indian classical influences to create a captivating cross-cultural sound. Their joyous performances are a journey of contrasts, from hand-clapping trance-like sufi songs to spacious stillness and reflection.

Over 30 years of studying Indian music and working across genres under the banner of ‘world music’, Deepa Nair Rasiya has forged an international reputation as a vocalist and composer, receiving awards and acclaim in the UK and India. She has worked with artists, including Kuljit Bhamra and is currently touring with Opera North’s production of Orpheus.

Mishra are Kate Griffin (The Magpies) on banjo and vocals, Ford Collier (The Drystones) on low whistle and percussion, John Ball (Rafiki Jazz) on tabla and santoor, Joss Mann-Hazell (Auka) on double bass, and Alex Lyon on clarinets and vocals. Since forming in 2018, Mishra have won the Chritian Raphael prize, received BBC Radio 2 airplay for their albums ‘The Loft Tapes’ and ‘Reclaim’, and performed slots at festivals including Cambridge Folk Festival, Beardy, Timber, and more. They are 2022 recipients of Celtic Connections’ prestigious ‘Danny Kyle’ award.

Billie Bottle’s Temple of Shibboleth

The Temple of Shibboleth incorporates a scintillating blend of prog, jazz, and pop sensibilities, always with a sense of mythic ritual. With echoes of Gong, Canterbury and Henry Cow plus a pop approach to songwriting, the line-up features Billie Bottle on piano, guitar, bass and vocals (Caravan’s Dave Sinclair & Mike Westbrook bands), Viv Goodwin-Darke on flute and vocals (The Invisible Opera Company of Tibet/Magic Bus), Roz Harding on alto sax (Mike Westbrook bands), Anna Batson on bassoon and vocals (an engaging singer/songwriter in her own right) and much-in-demand drummer, Emma Holbrook.’

Borne out of lockdown necessity, The Temple of Shibboleth started life when Billie Bottle ran away from the circus in 2020 and started caring for a wise woman in Ottery St Mary, Devon. Here, she was taught the ancient art of traditional housekeeping, where each day of the week has a particular purpose and function: this became invaluable in navigating our seemingly eternal state of lockdown.

In their former incarnation, Billie Bottle & The Multiple, released their first album, Unrecorded Beam, in 2014 and their second, THE OTHER PLACE in 2021. The former was described by Robert Wyatt as “brilliant!”. “Cleverly refract rock, folk and jazz through a prism of Canterbury pastoralism” – Prog Magazine

SOLARFERENCE

Solarference singers and sound artists Nick Janaway & Sarah Owen perform a genre-defying mix of live electronics and traditional folk.

With voice and harmony at the heart of the music, Solarference meets audiences with intense live energy. Powerful, resonant songs come to life in epic and intimate sonic worlds.

Nick, based in Bristol, is a songwriter, producer, multi-instrumentalist, and sound designer. Sarah is a versatile vocalist from East Devon with a background in sonic art and composition. After a couple of years of peeling back the layers of electronics to explore a new collection of original & traditional songs, Solarference returns with a fresh approach to their homemade live sampling setup.

Solarference are diving back into their creative fascination with the human voice and live audio transformation. “Arresting, atmospheric and thrilling… Solarference are one of the most original acts playing English folk music.” – fRoots magazine “A crystallization of ancient and modern, as circuit boards sing with the art of storytelling…Totally intoxicating. May mornings will never feel quite the same again.” – SpiralEarth

In their 25th year as a band paying tribute to the unique sound of Led Zeppelin, Dazed’n’Confused are a four-piece of very experienced musicians with a passion and dedication to emulating the live sound and energy of the mighty Led Zeppelin. Bonham-Esque drums, twin neck guitar weaponry, full range passionate vocals and dual wizardry on bass and keyboards alternating between songs and how they were originally performed live. The essence of the iconic English band Led Zeppelin.

Got to be heard to be believed. With many gigs chalked up over time in clubs and theatres in and around Devon and Cornwall, their enthusiasm never wanes. There are always people wanting to hear the classics and even some classics that were never performed live by Zeppelin themselves. There are no wigs, no costumes, just an honest, passionate performance every time.

Angela Barnes (Mock The Week, Live at the Apollo, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown and former chair of BBC Radio 4’s The News Quiz) has good intentions but trying to live your best life, as it turns out, is really bloody hard. Stand-up, stories and jokes from “…a gloriously down-to-earth, straight-talking and extremely funny comic” (Guardian).

One4Review★★★★★ ”thoroughly entertaining… well written, well balanced, quality.”

BroadwayBaby ★★★★ “Well thought out, quick-fire one-liners are delivered by a down-to-earth and likeable stage persona”

EdFestMag ★★★★ “’Great punchlines galore”

Science Adventures: Deep Sea

This April, we will be heading to the bottom of the sea with Coppice Theatre for an exciting aquatic adventure! This fantastical show explores the importance of protecting our coast and oceans through puppetry, animation and storytelling whilst fostering a love of science and literature.

The team that brought you Science Adventures (2018) and Science Adventures: The Power Pickle (2021) bring you a brand new show with exciting new characters and three new stories aimed at primary school-aged children. Coppice Theatre are a Cornish-based company that specialises in creating engaging, entertaining and accessible productions for young people.

The Untold Story of ‘Doctor Dick’: the Quack who Scandalised Victorian Cornwall

Come along and hear the story of Richard ‘Doctor Dick’ Pascoe, a quack medical man once famous across Cornwall for his willingness to break the law and take on the establishment. Was he an angel or a devil? Victorian Cornwall was torn in half by that question, and we’ll be asking it again as we make our way into some of the darker corners of this county’s past. Will Hazell is a local storyteller and tour guide experienced at bringing narratives to life, and anyone with an interest in Cornwall’s past will want to hear him tell this richly dramatic story.

CLASSIC  SOUL & MOTOWN PARTY NIGHT

SOUL KINDA WONDERFUL

Featuring  RICHIE SAMPSON

  AWARD WINNERS  THE NATIONAL TRIBUTE AWARDS 2013 / 2016/ 2017  

Featuring RICHIE SAMPSON formerly in THE DRIFTERS

The UK’s no.1 award-winning tribute to The Four Tops and The Temptations. Thoroughly re-live that splendid era with Soul Kinda Wonderful, this is Soul and Motown at its very best.

Classic tracks performed on the night include

Heard it through the grapevine, Love Train, My Girl, Dancing On The Ceiling, Reach Out I’ll be There,

I can’t help myself, going loco down in Acapulco Love Really Hurts without you,

Don’t forget your Dancing Shoes.

Ultimate Coldplay

Since launching in 2017 Ultimate Coldplay have been widely recognised as being the world’s most accurate Coldplay tribute. They are frequently described as the ‘next best thing’ to one the UK’s most famous bands. Pre-pandemic the band were frequent fliers, performing in many different countries around the world, including tours in Europe and Asia. Performing at countless festivals across the country, Butlins shows, Theatre tours and o2 academies to name but a few the band has continued to go from strength to strength.

Ultimate Coldplay are the only Coldplay tribute featuring a true look-a-like Chris Martin, who plays piano and guitar like Chris, sings like Chris and even dances like him! The other three members of the bands, all look-a-likes, faithfully replicate note for note all the biggest hits including ‘Paradise’, ‘Fix You’, Viva la Vida’, ‘My Universe’ and ‘Yellow’.

Natasha Carthew is a Cornish working-class writer who grew up in rural poverty battling limited opportunities, precarious resources, escalating property prices, isolation and a community marked by the ravages of inequality. Her world existed alongside the picture postcard Cornwall, where wealth and privilege converged on sandy beaches and expensive second homes. Writer of ten books spanning fiction, poetry and this her first memoir, she is also the founder of the Nature Writing Prize for Working Class Writers, and Artistic Director of the Working Class Writers Festival, in partnership with Bristol Ideas.

In the rockpools and hedgerows of the natural world, Natasha found solace in the beauty of the landscape, and in the mobile library she found her means of escape. In her first non-fiction book, she returns to the cliff paths of her childhood, determined to make sense of an upbringing shaped by political neglect and a life defined by the beauty of nature. Undercurrent is part memoir, part-investigation, and part love letter to Cornwall.

“There’s a Cornish saying that nothing is left behind in an autumnal tide, the powerful tug between the sun and the equator makes the water surface stronger, and it pulls and builds until we are left with what is known as great tides – but as I stand here on my childhood beach someplace in my 40s, all I can see is the stretch of grey rocks and sand where the ebb has come and gone.”

Undercurrent is a vivid, powerful exploration of rural poverty and the often-devastating impact of living without the means or support to build a future. This is a journey through place and a story of hope, beauty, and fierce resilience.

The Countrymen

Now in their sixth year, they have been becoming increasingly popular across both Devon & Cornwall with appearances on both radio and TV and numerous festival appearances, including The Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, The Rock Oyster Festival, Falmouth Week, Bridport Folk Festival and Little Orchard Festival.

2023 will see the band take on a fourth concert tour of both Cornwall and Devon entitled “Bal Maiden” which is the track title to one of the new tracks for a third forthcoming album.

“If you get the chance to see these guys (The Countrymen) in concert, then take it. You will not be disappointed.”

Harry Glasson

The band was formed from an Open Mic Night at their local, The Countryman Inn near Launceston, which is where the band’s name originates.  They soon found a mutual love of singing in harmony and almost accidentally developed a strong reputation for an emphasis on Cornishness in the repertoire.

“Saw these guys on Saturday in the main street (Falmouth Shanty Festival). Great singing. Great banter”.                                                                                                             Steve Prophet

In addition to offering quality live entertainment on stage, they have also been busy in the recording studio. They have released three online EPs to date, Cornish Lads Vol.1, 2 and, not unsurprisingly, Cornish Lads Vol.3.                                                                                                                    

They have also released two albums, “Trees On The Hill” and, more recently, “The River Rolls On”.

“Fantastic band! Great harmonies and mix of music. Don’t miss them!”                Guy McKensie

“Absolutely love this band. Saw them for the first time at the St Agnes Lifeboat celebration in June and was blown away by the musicianship and beautiful harmonies. At times they were very exclusive and original, and at other times derivative but still brilliant. They reminded me at times of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young and I would love to see them attempt “Teach Your Children” but their take on some traditional Cornish songs was uplifting and poignant at the same time. A wonderful night’s entertainment. I very much look forward to seeing them again (and again). Thanks guys, much appreciated,”                                                                                                      David Simons

Never 42 is the expression of this band’s combined passion for the musicianship of Mark King and Mike Lindup and the upbeat jazz-funk sound that is Level 42. With an uncanny accuracy which has earned them the reputation as the UK’s Premier Level 42 Tribute Band and they have received a ‘thumbs up’ from Mark King.

This impressive 5 piece band is made up of individually brilliant musicians who bring extensive musical careers which includes touring and playing alongside professional session musicians.

“As a band, we are so excited about Level 42’s Music. We can’t wait to play to our fans around the country and meet new ones! Performing to a live audience who all love the hits like we do is the most amazing feeling and to bring the music of Level 42 to new listeners far and wide is the most satisfying .”

Expect to hear the Level 42 favourites, Livin it up (The Sun Goes Down), Lessons In Love, Something About You, The Chant Has Begun, Starchild, Are You Hearing What I Hear, Hot Water… and so many more!……..enjoy the show!

Suntou Susso is a multi-instrumentalist: Kora player, percussionist, singer and composer from The Gambia. Born a Griot in a 700-year-old tradition, the Kora – harp-lute with 22 strings – is unique to the Griots of the Mandinka people. Griots have a unique societal role as oral historians, transmitting and preserving a people’s culture through the generations in song, music and poetry.

Suntou’s family includes some of the world’s most highly respected West African musicians including Mamudou Susso (father) and Seckou Keita (half-brother). His musical abilities are outstanding, perhaps unique for his generation. An in-demand and charismatic performer, he attracted attention as soon as he arrived on the UK music scene.

Collaborations

Celebrated jazz singer Sarah-Jane Morris, Guitarist Tony Remy – Ronnie Scotts, Ghazalaw –Indian–Welsh fusion project on BBC Radio 2, 3 and 6, Davide Mantovani, Kora and Modern Jazz fusion, Opera singer Pumeza Matshikiza – performing on ITV’s This Morning.

A key member of Norway-based Kristin Asbjornsen Trio, he co-composed and recorded a successful album, performing at jazz festivals around Europe. As an acknowledged master of the Kora, Suntou was invited to perform alongside world famous Senegalese singer Youssou N’Dour at the O2 in 2018. An impressive moment for any young musician and a seal of approval from the legendary artist.

Here in the UK, he also performs classical Kora as a solo artist at sizable theatres with orchestral productions and across the festival circuit including WOMAD, Hay Festival, Beyond the Border and more.

In The Gambia, Suntou has a huge fan base and has released successful singles and videos. These continue to receive daily exposure on national TV and radio.

He also runs fun and engaging drumming and Kora workshops in schools, colleges and universities to pass this knowledge on to the next generation including Project African Experience for Black History Month.

 Around About Dusk

‘Around About Dusk are an adventurous musical conception playing original music with influences ranging from musette, New Orleans jazz, old time, and European folk traditions with eclectic instrumentation and rich vocal harmonies.

The band play original songs as well as interweaving songs they love from jazz to folk and contemporary music throughout their diverse and exciting set. They are all multi-instrumentalists but much of their music comprises of a line up of accordion, clarinet, trumpet, double bass and drums as well as their captivating vocal harmonies.

Forming from a journey to New Orleans playing on the porches of Louisiana and heading through busking festivals of Europe to campfires in England. They are warm, gentle and unique!’

Desperados-A Tribute to The Eagles

Desperados, are an ensemble of talented and creative musicians, who pride themselves on their technical abilities and attention to detail to deliver a rip-roaring set from the outstanding back catalogue of one of the greatest bands in history! Sit back & Take it Easy with Desperados and celebrate the music of six-time Grammy Award Winners, The Eagles!

Our Star Theatre Company present their acclaimed comedy, ‘Sherlock’s Excellent Adventure’!  Follow Sherlock Holmes and his incomparable sidekick Dr John Watson on this riveting, hitherto unpublished case …
Damsel in distress Lucy Matravers engages Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous sleuth Holmes and his partner Watson to resolve a dispute over a family will. Little do they know that this small case brings Holmes straight into the clutches of his arch-enemy, James Moriarty!

Starting life on the Edinburgh and Brighton Fringe circuit, join Sherlock and co on their second UK-wide tour for this riotous spoof.  Taken on by four actors and minimal furnishings, this show guarantees a ton of jolly-good fun to be had by all.

“A wacky farcical adventure, which had the audience laughing and delighting in moments of silliness” (The Reviews Hub – Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2022)

Morris-Beg Duo

Described as delivering “energetic and charming performances”, the Morris-Begg Duo of Ross Morris (guitar) and Ines Mayhew-Begg (voice) formed at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and have already brought their shared enjoyment of the intimate and expressive nature of voice and guitar to several prestigious venues across the UK such as the National Gallery of Scotland, St Giles Cathedral and Kings Place London.

From Rennaissance lute songs to flamenco-inspired songs from Spain, this concert will feature a wide range of styles and periods and will include some of their own arrangements, bringing a fresh approach to some of the most loved repertoire for the voice.

They perform to a wide variety of audiences through Live Music Now Scotland and are 22/23 International Guitar Foundation Young Artists. As IGF YA’s they will be premiering new commissions for voice and guitar throughout the year at some of the UK’s most eminent venues.

Ross has performed across the UK as a soloist including at Helly’s International Guitar Festival and he toured with Glyndebourne Opera in 2021. He is a member of Quartet Malamatina who performed at the UN Climate Conference, and who have toured the UK and Canada, premiering a new commission from the UK’s most exciting composers. He teaches guitar and musicianship at St Andrews University.

Ines is a Scottish soprano and has recently made her German Debut as Adele in Lyric Opera Studio Weimar’s production of Die Fledermaus. She has performed several solo roles for Scottish Opera Young Company and her performance as Amore received praise for having ‘confidence, consistency and fluency’ by Andrew Clark in Opera Magazine. She has a keen interest in early music and is the founder and director of the Avra Baroque Ensemble.

Wrong Jovi are widely considered to be “the best Bon Jovi tribute band in the world!” So much so, that even the former Bon Jovi guitarist, Richie Sambora, has personally thanked the band for their hard work and unforgettable performances. In their 7 years of touring, the band have performed across the world and featured on the BBC prime-time TV show, Even Better Than The Real Thing. 2019 saw Wrong Jovi perform over 100 shows around the world. Selling out music venues and theatres across the UK and headlining festivals in Malta, Abu Dhabi and Bahrain, as well as back home in the UK – including a headline slot on the
Electro Love stage at 2019’s Isle Of Wight Festival. Performing a set of greatest hits, live favourites and rarities, the band ensure that there is something for the casual follower and even the most die hard of Bon Jovi fans.

Ally Ward takes on the role of Jon Bon Jovi, bearing a striking resemblance to one of rocks most iconic showmen. Not only does he look like Jon, but Ally also unleashes a vocal so strong that audience members actually believe they are watching Bon Jovi at their very peak – some say he is even better than the real Jon Bon Jovi. Mark Harding takes on the role of Richie Sambora, reproducing his fiery licks and riffs as well as Sambora’s smooth vocal lines with flair and precision that is unrivalled – he is also a dead ringer for one of Rock N’ Roll’s most recognisable guitarists. On keyboards is Simon Tabert as David Bryan – one of the UK’s
finest musicians, Simon performs the songs with precision like no other and is a key factor in ensuring Wrong Jovi are top of the tribute tree. James Houghton, Wrong Jovi’s Hugh McDonald, has performed with acts such as Phil Collins, Mott The Hoople and Dumpy’s Rusty Nuts, opening for acts such as Guns N’ Roses and Rod Stewart – his bass lines and experience are invaluable to the band. Alex Sturgeon completes the line up as drummer, Tico Torres. Alex is one of the UK’s best young drummers and provides the thunderous drumming that drives the Wrong Jovi show.

The band will be embarking on a tour of theatres and large music venues in the UK, as well as taking the show out to Europe and beyond. The hit singles, Livin’ On A Prayer, Always, You Give Love A Bad Name and Wanted Dead Or Alive are joined by live favourites and rarities such as Blood On Blood, Dry County, Wild Is The Wind and This Ain’t A Love Song, ensuring that a Wrong Jovi show is the ultimate tribute to New Jersey’s finest stadium rock band!

So, are you ready for One Wild Night of Bon Jovi hits, live favourites and rarities? Wrong Jovi will transport you back to the days when Bon Jovi were the best live act on the planet and transform venues and theatres into stadiums for the ultimate Bon Jovi tribute show. Get your dose of Bad Medicine with Wrong Jovi – “The Best Bon Jovi Tribute Band In The World!”

FIFTY YEARS OF OTWAY AND BARRETT

This magnetic bond still holds after more than 40 years of attempted escapes and still loved for their total in-yer-face originality, the contrast between the deadpan humour of Barrett and the mad onstage antics of Otway are hilarious to watch.  John’s lyrical genius and Willy’s outstanding musicianship (he seems to play almost every stringed instrument known to man, plus a few hybrids of his own making!)

Ever keen to add a new dimension to the show, Willy has a new addition to his array of instruments. Beware the Moose Homp!!.

Willy’s interest in making instruments began when he commandeered two guitars made by his dad in 1965. One from an old guitar neck and a scaffold plank which became affectionally known as the Les Dawson, and the other branded the Mk1 Schitstik electric slide of similar pedigree. These instruments were used on many of the early tracks, including Really Free and Racing Cars)

Willy’s remark, “this will be the last time that many of you will see us together again” was often hastily misinterpreted as the final throw of the dice, but the reason given “it’s not us packing up, it’s you lot dying off, you know who you are!” is often overlooked by eager scribes. And so the rumours abound.

Earlier this year, John celebrated his 5,000th  gig to a packed house at London’s Shepherd’s Bush Empire.

And if that’s not enough, we are now talking about DOCTOR JOHN – an Honorary PhD in Music by Oxford Brookes University.
“I’m really thrilled to be awarded this totally unexpected honour, especially as I failed all my A levels as I decided to concentrate on preparing for my burgeoning career as a rock star. To get this from Oxford Brookes 50 years later shows I did the right thing.”

For any Otway/Barrett virgins out there who don’t know what to expect, be prepared for everything from bare-chested theremin playing to wah wah wheelie bin as the duo jump from one hit and 40 near misses to another:  An amazing and irreverent performance by two master entertainers.

A Room of One’s Own

Dyad Productions

The award-winning Dyad Productions (Female Gothic, I, Elizabeth, Christmas Gothic, and Austen’s Women) return with a twenty-first century take on Virginia Woolf’s celebrated pre-TED talk.

Take a wry, amusing, and incisive trip through the history of literature, feminism, and gender.  Meet Charlotte Brontë, Jane Austen, Aphra Behn, and Shakespeare’s sister – Judith!  Travel to the far-flung future of… 2028.  But whatever you do, Keep Off the Grass.

Rebecca Vaughan (Female Gothic, Orlando, Christmas Gothic, Dalloway, Austen’s Women, Jane Eyre: An Autobiography) performs Woolf’s 1928 exploration of the impact of poverty and sexual inequality on intellectual freedom and creativity.

 ‘If you haven’t seen Dyad Productions’ work before, you simply must’ British Theatre Guide

‘Some of the most electrifying character work available, up to and including Berkoff’ Fringe Review

 ‘Towering… luscious… assured… rich’ The Scotsman

THREE WEEKS Cumulative Body of Work Award-Winners, 2018 

★★★★★ ‘Intelligently adapted, beautifully performed… entrancing’ (British Theatre Guide)

★★★★★ ’Richly re-imagined, exquisitely evocative’ (Edinburgh Guide)

★★★★★ ‘Pure brilliant theatre.’ (TV Bomb)

‘Perfection… Vaughan is simply sublime’ (Huffington Post)

Get ready for an unforgettable evening, celebrating the global superstar and great female icon that is Cher.
Featuring all of the classic hits including Turn Back Time, I Found Someone, Believe, Strong Enough, Gypsies Tramps and thieves, her modern Abba remixes and many more.
This is one show-stopping dazzling extravaganza you do not want to miss! This show will take you on a musical journey from the Dark Lady days, to the rocking 80’s perm days and the celebration disco hits as we TURN BACK TIME and celebrate the queen of pop and rock.

‘Strong enough’ features 25 smash hits, six decades of stardom and enough costume changes to cause a sequins shortage… With full live band and dancers, come along and experience the passion, the flair and the glitter!

For more information on STRONG ENOUGH, check out the following links:
Website – http:www.strongenough.co.uk
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/strongenoughuk
Twitter – https://twitter.com/strongenoughuk
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/strongenoughuk/

Nearly Elton – The Ultimate Tribute Show to Elton John

Experience the ultimate Elton John tribute Concert. Nearly Elton is a stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest showmen of our time. Starring Lee Brady as Elton and an outstanding full live band.

This phenomenal production is an exciting, heartfelt concert that has been described as “a powerhouse performance that delivers on every level…”

Taking audiences on a magical ride through five decades of hits that include: Rocketman, Your Song, I’m Still Standing, Candle In The Wind, Sacrifice, I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues and many more…

www.nearlyelton.co.uk

In a world of soundbites and distractions, Chris Wood is a truth seeker. His writing is permeated with love and wry intelligence, uplifting and challenging as he celebrates the sheer one-thing-after-an otherness of life. Tom Robinson and Chris Difford are fans, while Stick In The Wheel and The Unthanks look to him as an influence. Winner of 6 BBC Folk Awards, he’s played with The Royal Shakespeare Company and was a key member of The Imagined Village along with Billy Bragg and Martin Carthy.  A wise and soulful craftsman, his concerts are a cliche-free zone.

 “Chris Wood might be the Ken Loach of songwriting. He is very political but at the same time, full of compassion, and he grows sharper and more acute with each passing album. He’s good, quite probably the very best we have today, and we need him more than ever.”

FROOTS MAGAZINE

“As close as it gets to a perfect union of voice and guitar, lyrics and melody, compassion, irony, realism, wit, and humanity.”

THE HERALD ***** 5 Stars

“Nobody comes even close to equaling his bird’s-eye-view.”

THE IRISH TIMES ***** 5 Stars

 “a rarefied talent, both as writer and interpreter.”

MOJO **** 4 Stars

The Blackheart Orchestra is officially the smallest orchestra in the world. Two people playing 13 instruments. They perform in the centre of a circle of instruments that has been described as their ‘musical space station’ and ‘instrumental laboratory’. Their music combines ethereal vocals with multi-layered combinations of acoustic instruments such as guitar and mandola, rock instruments including electric guitar, bass and percussion, plus piano, organ, electronica, orchestral and symphonic sounds, omnichords and their collection of vintage synthesisers. The music is emotional with Metal Planet saying “Their music reaches areas of your head and heart that you never knew existed.”

They draw on their backgrounds in rock, folk, electronica and classical music to create a sound frequently compared to such diverse artists as Cocteau Twins, early Pink Floyd, Portishead and Kate Bush as well as contemporary composers such as Steve Reich and Philip Glass.

After 1000 gigs from Southampton to Sydney and 6 acclaimed albums, they’ve performed everywhere from intimate venues to London’s Palladium and Royal Albert Hall sharing stages with everyone from Hawkwind to Eric Clapton.

The band’s 2019 album Mesmeranto reached #16 in the UK Indie Chart, #18 in the UK Rock Chart, #4 in the USA’s Big Takeover Albums of the Year and was voted twice in the Rock Writers’ Top 20 Albums of the Year. They won Best British Duo. They were voted #4 Best New Band in the UK. Chrissy Mostyn was recently voted #5 Best Female Vocalist in PROG Magazine’s Readers’ Poll, and their lockdown online concert series The Big Armchair Concerts was voted #10 in Most Important Rock Events of 2020.

They have been described as “A mesmerising powerhouse” and “An avant-garde musical utopia”. Louder Than War declared their music “A life-enhancing listening event” Steve Hackett of Genesis described it as “Powerful and inspiring”and fan Phil Campbell of Motörhead described it as “******* beautiful”.

Ha Hum Ah presents

Cold, Dark Matters

By Jack Brownridge-Kelly

There’s a shed in that field. It’s long forgotten. Unloved some would say. There’s nothing really important about that shed. After all, it’s just a shed… Or is it? This is the story of one man’s infatuation with an abandoned shed, that according to one curious stranger, will soon be blown up.

A satirical dark comedy about rural communities, isolation, and faddism, Cold, Dark Matters delves into the murky underwaters of a community in Cornwall and its new resident whose desire for a rural retreat may not be all that they seem.

Audience feedback

“I absolutely loved this, what a great night! Really engrossing and engaging story and performance. Perfect format.”

“I loved that I’ve been mulling over the ending all week.  I was totally invested in the story from start to the end.”

“Quick witted humour drenched in satire.”

“One of the best things I’ve seen in a while. Brilliant writing performed with skill and consideration for the audience, loved it.”

Fresh from publishing the first-ever and much-anticipated biography of the late, great Jake Thackray, John Watterson (‘Fake Thackray’) is delighted to present an evening featuring Jake’s brilliant, hilarious songs and stories from his remarkable life.

‘Beware of the Bull – The Enigmatic Genius of Jake Thackray’ was co-written by John and fellow Jake enthusiast Paul Thompson, with the full support and cooperation of the Thackray family and launched in August 2022.

Admired by Neil Gaiman, Jarvis Cocker, Jon Richardson, and Arctic Monkeys, among many others, Jake is increasingly recognised as one of the greatest and most original British songwriters of the twentieth century; a unique talent, whose songs are full of wit, poetry, irreverence and humanity.

His story is as extraordinary as his songs. It takes in his childhood in the terraces of Leeds; years spent in France and war-torn Algeria; a career as an inspirational, idiosyncratic, highly creative teacher; his meteoric development as a songwriter and performer, and recording sessions at Abbey Road, rubbing shoulders with The Beatles and influencing their music. Television brought him great fame and fortune…and he turned his back on it all.  It is the story of a complex, immensely private man who remained a mystery even to his friends.

John will share with the audience entertaining insights into Jake’s life and personality, and his unique writing. Alongside classic material he will perform some of the long-lost songs he and Paul have unearthed.

Copies of the book can be purchased on the night, or online, postage free, from the publisher, Scratching Shed Publications.

‘An evening of laughter and witty wordsmithery – great fun whether you are just discovering Jake or have been a life-long fan’

Off the back of a sell-out Acorn show in 2022 that people are still talking about, singer/songwriter/guitarist Hollie Rogers returns, this time with her full band.

Suzanne Vega calls her “a magnificent and powerful voice.” Nick Mason of Pink Floyd says her songwriting is “reminiscent of Joni Mitchell and Carole King,” while Chris Difford (Squeeze) says, “Hollie’s songwriting always knocks me out.”

Penzance-born Hollie has opened for the likes of Suzanne Vega, KT Tunstall and Paolo Nutini. She’s a regular on stages at Glastonbury and other high profile festivals, and her songs receive national BBC airplay. BBC Radio 2’s Bob Harris recently invited her to record a live session at his studio.

Hollie’s latest album ‘Criminal Heart’ has been met with critical acclaim and her live performances consistently receive outstanding reviews, with regular reference to the candour in her lyrics and power in her voice. With her full band, you can expect to be tapping your feet and shedding a tear in the space of one set.

This is Hollie’s first ever full-band show in Cornwall, so don’t miss it; come and find out what all those big names are making such a fuss about!

Who’s Next 50th Anniversary

Who’s Next are the premier live tribute to The Who. They capture a magical point in time when many believed that The Who were the greatest pop and rock group on Earth. Who’s Next’s live show aims to recreate this period in the early 1970s with the aid of authentic stage wear and instruments. The result is a time machine ride back to the days of Live at Leeds, The Isle of Wight Festival, Tanglewood and the Fillmore shows. It is a must for any Who fan!

More Info   Get Tickets

The Acorn, Parade Street
Penzance
Cornwall
TR18 4BU

Do you know the story of Diana? Probably. But do you know our story of Diana? We very much doubt it.

Join Diana in heaven as she shares the untold and untrue tale of her extraordinary life.

Combining drag, multimedia, audience interaction, puppetry and a lot of queer joy – this unique celebration of the people’s princess is as hilarious as it is tasteless.

A brand new show from harbingers of theatrical chaos Awkward Productions, written and performed by Linus Karp and is created with support from Arts Council England, The Pleasance London, Lighthouse Poole and Arts at the Old Fire Station, Oxford.

The show follows our previous productions on how to live a Jellicle life: life lessons from the 2019 hit movie musical ‘cats’ and Awkward Conversations With Animals I’ve F*cked.

This show contains flashing lights, strong language, audience participation and Camilla Parker Bowles.

Praise for previous work:

“Really enjoyed, Linus Karp was great” – Edgar Wright
“So much FUN” – James Graham
“Funny and unsettling” – Mark Gatiss
“Twink” – Deborah Frances-White
“Hilarious” – Gay Times
“A Fringe Hit” – Time Out
“Brilliantly Bonkers” – The Stage
“Too many penis jokes” – The Guardian
BEST CABARET AT EDINBURGH FRINGE 2022 – Theatre Weekly
British Comedy Guide’s Best-reviewed Edinburgh Fringe shows 2022
“Irresistible, joyous and unmissable” ★★★★★ — The Review Chap
“Exceptionally creative and hilariously funny” ★★★★★ – Everything Theatre
“The tonic we all need” ★★★★★ — London Theatre
“Insanity at its greatest” ★★★★★ — Epigram
“Endearingly nerdy and hilariously horny” ★★★★★ — Three Weeks
“Witty, unique and sidesplittingly funny” ★★★★★ — Theatre Reviews UK
“Truly in awe” ★★★★★ – Theatre Weekly
“Highly entertaining” ★★★★★ – Theatre and Arts Review
“Why I love theatre” ★★★★½ — West End Best Friend
“Fantastically queer, outrageously fun” ★★★★½ —Theatre and Other Things London

Suthering

Suthering meaning “the sound of the wind through the trees or wind under a bird’s wing”, combines the musical talents of Julu Irvine and Heg Brignall. A couple in life and in music, the duo have taken the folk scene by storm with their unusual and fresh approach to folk. Julu and Heg are true storytellers who champion female characters, creating new narratives for women and unearthing the heroines of folk.

What sets them apart is their wonderful chemistry and charisma on stage, natural humour and two beautifully matched voices. With an unusual mix of cascading, dramatic piano; intricate, fingerstyle guitar; flute, whistles and harmonium, Julu and Heg bring an exciting take on folk storytelling with their evocative and distinctive sound. Their arresting a cappella arrangements have been memorable favourites with audiences.

Their debut album, If We Turn Away, explores themes of community, connection, environment, and conscience and is very much a reflection of the times we are living in and has been influenced by the duo’s experiences during the pandemic. Each song is carefully crafted and arranged, telling tales of struggle and triumph against all odds, from both their own lives and from stories they have found.

What drew them together as songwriters were their shared love of collecting stories and turning them into songs; both have written about their grandparents and stories their family members have shared. Julu and Heg combine their powerful songwriting, weaving stories and crisp vocal harmonies to create a beautiful, pure sound.

Depeche Mode Tribute Act – The Devout

Approximately 10 years ago, a group of Depeche Mode fans started recreating their favourite songs to play to fans like themselves.

As the years rolled by, the band and its sound evolved to a point where they had earned a reputation for a startlingly precise sound and professionalism that never cancelled a gig, always delivering to DM fans and the music industry professionals who put them on.

This solid foundation was formed through sheer care and technical excellence.

In 2018 the lead singer decided to hang up his waistcoat and with that a major evolution for the project started to take place.

This meant a new frontman and 2 new members to deliver enhanced productions of the Speak and Spell shows. Out of respect for the history of Speak and Spell, this also means a new operating name; ‘The Devout’.

We are honoured and happy to be able to have the opportunity to continue to thrill audiences in the UK and beyond. We will deliver the same quality of production, vision and sound that has been enjoyed for years, whilst also enhancing all material to its fullest extent.

Our sole focus is to bring a performance that is worthy enough to transport the audience back to a Depeche Mode gig, at their peak and at their most powerful.

There’s no doubt. We’re The Devout!

Fifi la Mer and Oliver Wilby present a unique, brand-new show that will take you on a journey through 100 years of French music, from Offenbach to Gainsbourg. The show features the dulcet tones of Fifi on accordion and voice, and the talents of Oliver on clarinet, members of the saxophone family, and accordion. Together they will transport you to “ the city of lights “  with their repertoire of musical gems, and along the way you will get to enjoy tales of mystery, romance, and heartache that we so often associate with Paris. When not touring with this show Oliver Wilby travels the world with the Pasadena Roof Orchestra and the Ray Gelato Giants and Fifi leads the Oh la la!. Quintet . They regularly play at Ronnie Scott’s and have performed around 700 times at the brasserie Zedel in London.

www.ohlalamusic.co.uk

“Wonderful. Great musicians and an authentic touch of French music by two accomplished performers.”

“ Loved it – very well performed. Very interesting in the way it illuminated the historical background to the songs.”

“Entertaining, different, with talented and impressive performers who held the audience’s attention for the duration of the show.

TV Smith was a founder member, singer and songwriter for the Adverts who formed in late 1976 and became one of the leading bands in the first wave of British punk rock.  In early 1977 they performed regularly at the newly opened Roxy Club in London and gained cult success with the Stiff Records single “One Chord Wonders”.  The next release, “Gary Gilmore’s Eyes” became a hit record, leading to many radio and TV appearances and extensive media interest.  The album that followed in early 1978, “Crossing the Red Sea with The Adverts” is still considered a genuine classic of the era and is often cited as one of the 20 best punk albums ever released.

Tim enjoyed further success with TV Smith’s Explorers with the single “Tomahawk Cruise” before reinventing himself as a solo artist in the early 1990s.  Fiercely independent and determinedly embodying the original spirit of punk rock, TV Smith regularly plays over a hundred gigs a year all over the world, playing a mixture of original Adverts’ songs together with a seemingly endless supply of new material that marks Tim out as one of the greatest singer/songwriters this country has ever produced.

Support is provided by Pete Surgeon, singer/songwriter from The Surgeons, who many of you will be familiar with as Cornwall’s most enduring punk band.  Pete will be making a first appearance in almost four years, playing an acoustic selection of “greatest hits” from The Surgeons’ back catalogue.

Website: https://tvsmith.co.uk

The UB40 Experience

The UB40 Experience are a 7 piece full-on tribute to the kings of modern reggae UB40.

The band have been on the tribute scene for over 10 years now performing regularly on the Butlins circuit and all the top tribute festivals i.e. Glastonbudget and Tribfest to name a few.

The band have shared the stage with original UB40 members many times with Brian Travers, UB40 songwriter, being a regular guest at their shows.

Lead singer Andi Bagnali appeared on the TV tribute show “Stars in their eyes” and performed in the live 1995 final which was watched by 20 million viewers.

The band cover all of UB40’s most popular hits with a few surprises also.

Don’t miss this excellent tribute to UB40.

Vocal and power breathing, holistic training workshop by singing coach Jane Kitto (K.I.T.T.O )

Hosted at The Acorn Theatre

10am – 2pm

Tickets £20 Advance Bookings Only

“It’s great fun, a real workout learning to breath using correct breathing techniques; more of a martial art meditation style which really drives your voice. We will also train to activate the right micro-muscle groups articulating with shapes, reflex, vowels & arpeggios. Learn to use the correct pitch technique & how to ‘Serve the Song’ to express all you are! The workshop covers harmony ideas & improvisation with group / individual singing using the tools learned during the session. You can record the exercises onto your mobile phone as a take home souvenir to train to.

Liberating & addictive! You’re welcome to join in with us.

Jane

instagram.com/jane_kitto_voiceartuk

Matt Woosey

Matt Woosey has made a career of defying expectations. His albums break down the confines of genre. His performances span from eyeball-to-eyeball solo sets in fans’ living rooms, to thundering full-band explosions that shake the most prestigious venues in Europe. He’s an artist who slips the creative handcuffs of the industry, a trailblazer with no reverse gear, a guitar visionary whose palette bleeds into folk, rock, ambient and more, having been first turned on to the world of music by the blues.

“You’ve got to keep progressing,” reasons the British singer-songwriter. “Like John Martyn. Like Robert Plant. Like Radiohead…”

​2020 // 2021.

The New Album “Compass And The Sand”

With an abundance of time, and like most musicians during this period, Matt has allowed himself to step right back from everything he has done up until and including 2019’s “Live! in Gallaghers Nest” album and take stock, evaluate what kind of a musician he wants to be and decide in which direction to aim next. Without the all-encompassing lifestyle of being on the road and without the self-induced pressure to produce a new album or new material, Matt has found his zone, the place he wants to be musically. We find ourselves looking at a musician who has managed to break free of the stranglehold of the music world and who walks now with no weight on his shoulders and a new evaluation of what he “must” do.  The gift of time has been the most positive experience.

The Darkside of Pink Floyd proudly presents The Dark Side of the Moon 50th Anniversary Show, and the Animals 46th Anniversary Show (in selected venues) complemented by classic Floyd songs from their updated repertoire.

With sell-out shows across the UK, The Darkside of Pink Floyd is a premier touring tribute band and an established headline act at major music festivals. Featuring the stunningly authentic sounds of Pink Floyd, custom designed thematic light shows, spectacular laser effects and a range of video screens (up to 4.5m), these shows really pack the “WOW” factor creating a truly memorable experience!

With 5 Star reviews and thousands of fans across the UK, their 2023 Twin Tours highlighting the 50th anniversary of the classic album The Dark Side of the Moon, and the Animals album will continue a well-established record of attracting large audiences, old and young, to their performances wherever they play.

The Darkside of Pink Floyd proudly presents The Dark Side of the Moon 50th Anniversary Show, PLUS the Animals 46th Anniversary Show (in selected venues) complemented by classic Floyd songs from the bands updated repertoire.

Featuring the authentic and immersive sounds of Pink Floyd, new expanded light shows, spectacular laser effects and video screens. The new shows for 2023 will continue our decade long tradition of delighting audiences, providing a truly memorable experience to take away and treasure for old and young alike! With sell-out shows across the UK, The Darkside of Pink Floyd are a premier touring tribute band and an established headline act at major music festivals. Performing with passion and emotion, their shows incorporate drama, humour and stunning visuals.

With 5 Star reviews and thousands of fans across the UK, their 2023 Twin Tours highlighting the 50th anniversary of the classic album The Dark Side of the Moon, and the Animals album, are likely to be extremely popular at theatres throughout the UK.

The Darkside of Pink Floyd proudly presents The Dark Side of the Moon 50th Anniversary Show, and the Animals 46th Anniversary Show (in selected venues) complemented by classic Floyd songs from their updated repertoire.

With sell-out shows across the UK, The Darkside of Pink Floyd is a premier touring tribute band and an established headline act at major music festivals. Featuring the stunningly authentic sounds of Pink Floyd, custom designed thematic light shows, spectacular laser effects and a range of video screens (up to 4.5m), these shows really pack the “WOW” factor creating a truly memorable experience!

With 5 Star reviews and thousands of fans across the UK, their 2023 Twin Tours highlighting the 50th anniversary of the classic album The Dark Side of the Moon, and the Animals album will continue a well-established record of attracting large audiences, old and young, to their performances wherever they play.

The Darkside of Pink Floyd proudly presents The Dark Side of the Moon 50th Anniversary Show, PLUS the Animals 46th Anniversary Show (in selected venues) complemented by classic Floyd songs from the bands updated repertoire.

Featuring the authentic and immersive sounds of Pink Floyd, new expanded light shows, spectacular laser effects and video screens. The new shows for 2023 will continue our decade long tradition of delighting audiences, providing a truly memorable experience to take away and treasure for old and young alike! With sell-out shows across the UK, The Darkside of Pink Floyd are a premier touring tribute band and an established headline act at major music festivals. Performing with passion and emotion, their shows incorporate drama, humour and stunning visuals.

With 5 Star reviews and thousands of fans across the UK, their 2023 Twin Tours highlighting the 50th anniversary of the classic album The Dark Side of the Moon, and the Animals album, are likely to be extremely popular at theatres throughout the UK.

KiTTO ‘Grunge Cirque’

Bring out your fleece shirts.

Featuring 90’s Tributes!

KiTTO is a female-fronted rock band featuring Australian artist Jane Kitto with Swedish guitarist Pna Andersson (KITTO, Netherbird).

Her alternative roots have swept Kitto throughout the globe in some 36 countries from the North Pole to Robben Island, Los Angeles to Tahiti, with numerous festival appearances, live television & radio throughout Scandinavia UK & Europe; i.e UK tour on lead vocals with Janis Joplin’s original ‘Big Brother Holding Company‘. She began her career in the mid 90’s when she signed to the Australian Label Mushroom Records.

For this concert, KiTTO combine their flavoured creations and a tribute to the greatest grunge acts to bring an evening dedicated to the 90’s alternative rock scene (Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Alice in Chains, Nirvana, etc.)

Bringing their own take on this great songbook, we can experience the energy of the 1st wave of grunge through the eyes and ears of ‘ KiTTO’ together with the exciting antics of newcomer drummer Danny Krash to form a power trio you don’t want to miss.

Jane Kitto is a true force of nature and needs to be experienced live!

Nigel Osner takes a quizzical look at those no longer young. On the one hand are daunting realities and cruel setbacks, on the other there is more self-confidence and we might learn what’s best for ourselves. There’s a lot of humour but with a bitter-sweet edge. Nigel illustrates his theme with original songs and stories by male and female characters. These include Gerald who is having a taxing night out in central London; a rich designer who falls for his hunky gardener; the man who ignores a wheelchair-bound woman until he needs a wheelchair of his own; and the woman driven mad by her companion on a river cruise. Melodies are by various composers, sometimes even by Nigel.

Nigel has performed the show at the Edinburgh and other Fringes, in many London venues and by request.

‘Osner’s characterisations are well drawn and excellently performed. The writing is clever with plenty of wit and humour even in the darker elements of his stories.’ The Musical Theatre Review

‘Nigel is an excellent writer and, in each of the short scenes, he manages to bring real life to the character and the situation they find themselves in.’ London Theatre 1

‘Witty, bitchy, achingly sad and, finally, strangely uplifting.’ Broadway Baby

‘A beautiful piece of solo work’ Fringe Review

“From the deepest roots of flamenco, this theatrically spun dance show is born, shaped by the luminosity of the alegrías, the depth of the taranto, the rhythms of the tangos and bulerías and the jondura of the soleá and the farruca. Like the newly germinated seed that is nourished by the dewdrops, this work is the sensorial path that blossoms like azahar from the lament of the traces of the past towards the uncertain and graceful future. Strength and elegance work in harmony with the tradition of flamenco culture… Where the flight of hands, sensuality, and taconeo induce passion.”

Rebeca has a long formation including Flamenco, Classical Spanish Dance, Ballet and contemporary dance at “Carmen Amaya Flamenco cultural academy”, the world renowned “Centro de Arte Flamenco y Danza Española Amor de Dios” in Madrid, and later at “Escuela Mayor de Danza”, at Andalousian Centre of Dance, at Úrsula and Tamara López “Flamenco Danza” school and at Professional Dance Conservatory in Seville. Her most influential masters are La Tati, Merche Esmeralda, El Güito, Javier Latorre, Carmela Greco, Belén Fernández, La Truco, Alejandro Granados, Miguel Cañas, Adela Campallo among others.

At the age of 19 years old, she starts her professional career. For 4 years she performs and teaches the art of flamenco in the UK while completing her university studies, which leads her to create, direct and choreograph the “Nottingham Flamenquitas” group, as well as collaborate in different dance styles such as tap, contemporary and bollywood dance.

Distant Dances

Cornwall-based choreographer, mover and maker Kyra Norman presents a unique evening of live movement and dance performance celebrating three years of Distant Dances: guided adventures in movement and dance for all bodies that like to move. Come watch some never-to-be-seen-again dancing, followed by an all-join-in Distant Dances Disco and social, plus bar.

Feedback for One. Another. a residency and sharing at Jupiter Gallery, Newlyn in 2022:

“Hypnotic” “Mesmerising” “Nourishing” “…like psychedelic capoeira…” “Sick”

Bloom

Following on from the incredible sell-out show last year at the Acorn, I have been asked to sing again. Last time the wonderful songs written by Lucy Birbeck were a gift of an ask to perform, as were covers by Anthony & the Johnsons and glorious Laura Marling. This show promises to include ‘torch’ songs (by popular demand) but also moves beyond that from, say, the blues space to bloom. There will be a selection of both original and cover material performed by myself and a fleet of local talent, including the Tuesday Night Fun Club who will be singing arrangements created by Vicky Abbott. The ‘new kids on the block’ band, the Penwith All-Stars will also be making an appearance featuring Malcolm Star, Dale Henwood, Roger Lewis, SJ and guests, giving you a range of the brilliance of Malcolm Star songs and more.

Needless to say, we cannot wait to see you and share our love of music with you all.

About SJ

Cornish lady, songstress and performer spanning over a lifetime. Soloist from primary to now of beautiful songs in local churches, at Port Eliot in marquees and standing on hay bales with Vicky Abbott and the Fifty Degrees. Singer with Seamus Carey in My Four-Year-Old Self, The End of the Line with music director Vicky Abbott and artistic director Agnieszka Blonska. The Death Choir for St Julia’s Hospice soloing ‘You’ve Got the Love’ by Candi Staton and singer at the incredible Ordinalia, St Just (every performance), a singer at weddings and farewells, live singer of sessions locally and singing in a forthcoming new production with Aga Blonska, Vicky Abbott and our very own wonderful Tuesday Night Funclub in April 2023.

‘That was like an extract from a David Lynch film, absolutely incredible’ The Acorn 2022

MYDD PHARO

Artistic Director, Wildworks

‘Thrilling … soulful…. pulsating…heartstopping…. uplifting… utterly awesome performer’.

Alan Shepherd
Chair of Coast FM, Chair of The Acorn, Chair of CRCC, Festival Director of Golowan

Image: Oliver Hawker

Dave Angel Eco Warrior- ‘Living The Dream’

The man who invented saving the planet and has dedicated his life to lowering carbon emissions and getting a pound note- Dave Angel reveals in speech and song how he has
juggled a remarkable life of petty crime domestic bliss and his early forays into the British porn industry. WALLOP!

Supported by Billy Bleach and Tommy Cockles

Creative writing tutor and author of over 30 novels, Jenny Kane focuses on character, location and the development of structure and pace on the page, and explains how to instantly engage your reader (whatever the genre). Through short writing exercises, she will also show you how to maintain enough tension, suspense and action to keep a  reader turning the pages of any stories you may write.

Based in West Cornwall, Catrina Davies is best known as the Baillie-Gifford-nominated author of Homesick: Why I Live in a Shed. In her latest book, Once Upon a Raven’s Nest, Catrina tells how she met farmer Thomas Hedley in the twilight of his life, after a tragic accident had paralysed him from the neck down. Told in Thomas’ own voice, this is an extraordinary account of a life; at once a compelling piece of social history, a rumination on shifting rural identity and a condemnation of accelerating climate catastrophe. Catrina will discuss how she subverted the traditions of oral history to bring Thomas’ story to light.

Have you ever wondered what a book publicist actually does? Tried to think of how you might promote your own book? Wondered whether there’s a golden ticket to get your book into the bestseller list (spoiler: there rarely is)? Join Becky Hunter, who has worked as a book publicist for major publishers for over ten years, to explore these questions and more.

A medley of arrivals from 1217 to 1946: the arrival of trial by jury to replace its grisly predecessor; a good head of steam at Penzance railway station; and mid-20th-century children arriving from Holland with hope in their hearts. Informative and amusing, powerful and inspiring. Members of our Penwith Local History Group bring you a range of stories that offer something for everyone.

How does it feel for sons and daughters, cleaners and waiters, evangelists of difference and custodians of culture to lean over the gate and observe the agitations of arrival – grating locks, misplaced emphases in tannoy announcements, the romanticising of lore,  the dilution of custom? How do they arrive at a mindset that smiles a gentle welcome?  Bert Biscoe and Pol Hodge – Dew Vardh – are poets of the leaning gate, with songs, poems, anecdotes, social realism and  surrealism, wit, pathos and a goodly dose of the Elixir of Dreckly.

What would you do for love? Prepare for some surprising answers and plenty of emotional twists and turns in this event. “Nobody marries suspense and tenderness quite like Rosie Walsh.” Emma Stonex, author of The Lamplighters. Rosie’s novel The Man Who Didn’t Call, was a huge international success. And in her latest novel, The Love of My Life, Rosie asks what happens when you discover the person you trust most in the world isn’t who they say they are. Joining Rosie, we are delighted to welcome Becky Hunter, who published her debut novel in March after ten years in the publishing industry. Friendship, love and sacrifice all play a part in One Moment, as Becky poses the question: If you could go back and change that moment on which the future pivoted, would you change the course of history or do it all again?

Simon Keable-Elliott uncovered and tells the amazing story of his grandfather in his book, Utterly Immoral. A priest, African missionary and WW1 chaplain in France, Robert Keable published his first novel in 1922. The Fifty Shades of Grey of its day, it was deemed ‘offensive’ but went on to become a bestseller in America and a play on Broadway. Keable then ran away to live in Gauguin’s house in Tahiti and married a Tahitian princess.

Just imagine if an original letter from William Wordsworth was discovered in the basement of the Morrab Library. And not just any old letter, but a significant essay in miniature, containing the poet’s thoughts on childhood and education, and even touching on his own memories of growing up in the Lake District. Dr Mark Crees will introduce this remarkable find. Come along and discover why Wordsworth still matters today.

Nick Bamford (director) discusses with Mary Oliver (author) and Richard Curnow (writer/actor) the different processes involved in adaptation: such as making a book into a stage play, updating or changing the social context or taking characters from a play to new places.

The session will be illustrated with readings from the works discussed.

(NB some of these readings contain bad language and sex references – so not suitable for children)

Jane Corry is a Sunday Times and Washington Post best-selling author with over a million copies of her books sold worldwide. We are delighted to welcome her back to talk about her latest suspense novel, Coming to Find You, set in WW2 and the present day. When Nancy’s stepbrother is sent to prison for killing her mother and his father, she hides from the press at the family’s Devon holiday home. But, the house has a chilling wartime legacy: a terrible crime was committed there.  Can Nancy discover what it was – and find peace for herself?

Ronnie Turner grew up in Cornwall and met the publisher of So Pretty at a Penzance LitFest event! In her chillingly hypnotic Gothic thriller, a young man arrives in a small town, hoping to leave his past behind him, but everything changes when he takes a job in a peculiar old shop, and meets a lonely single mother. Little does he know that fear blisters through the streets like a fever. Fellow author M W Craven described this mesmerising study of identity and obsession as “like Stephen King on crack…”.

Raynor Winn is a regular long-distance walker who writes about nature, homelessness and our relationship to the land. In her latest book, Landlines, she recounts her most ambitious journey yet, as she and her husband Moth walk 1,000 miles from the north-west corner of Scotland to the south coast of Cornwall. Will nature once again work its magic on Moth’s declining health? Raynor recalls the strangers and friends, the wilderness and the wildlife that they encountered on this journey of hope. Raynor’s first book, The Salt Path, became an international bestseller, won the Royal Society of Literature Christopher Bland Prize 2018 and has been optioned for a film. The Wild Silence was shortlisted for the 2021 Indie Book Awards and the 2021 Wainwright Prize.

Robert Burns once said that there are two types of people: the merry and the grave. At this event, the odd couple of romantic literature (Burns and Wordsworth) meet for the very first time, but will they get on? In this vibrant piece – part performance, part recitation – Iain and Mark celebrate the work of two remarkable poets: one decidedly merry, the other… a little less so.

Who is telling your story – and are they being truthful? You can create great twists in your plot by introducing main characters who should (or should not) be believed. Sunday Times bestseller Jane Corry (My Husband’s Wife, The Dead Ex and more) will show you how it’s done in a session that will be particularly useful for writers of suspense.

A cheerful gallop up and down the Cornish cliffs in the company of Victorian botanists, early miners, writers, photographers and random eccentrics, who for centuries have explored beyond the cliff edges of the Land’s End peninsula and the Lizard, and who have (mostly) come back alive, many to write fascinating books. Seating is secure…but fasten your safety belts.

We first met Maureen as the wife of the eponymous hero in The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. Now, ten years later, award-winning author Rachel Joyce takes Maureen on her own, very different, journey in Maureen Fry and the Angel of the North. Her tale unfolds as she struggles to bond with strangers and finds that once-familiar landscapes have changed dramatically. Rachel’s other international bestsellers include: Perfect, The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy, The Music Shop and Miss Benson’s Beetle. The film of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, for which she also wrote the screenplay, was released in April and stars Jim Broadbent and Penelope Wilton.

If we believe that storytelling is fundamental to human survival and the ability to thrive, why is it that writers often feel ‘blocked’? Psychotherapist and writer, Bridget Holding puts forward the theory that we often apply an unconscious structure and technique to telling stories and that, by understanding  this, we can build confidence in our own writing. She explores how this will enable  us to both write with less effort and ignore those inner judgements that previously undermined projects.

Writer Louisa Treger talks about her historical novel set in New York of the 1880s, Madwoman. It tells the true story of reporter Nellie Bly, who faked insanity to go undercover in an asylum. But when the door swung shut behind her, she found a world of horrors beyond her imagination, reawakening traumatic events of her childhood. Would she ever get out? (Spoiler alert: a pioneer of investigative journalism, Nellie went on to transform the male-dominated newspaper industry.)

Lyrical rhyming wizard Megan Chapman (aka MCMC Spoken) returns with added lemon zest for 2023. This workshop will help you create a piece of performance writing, focusing wholly on the self from start to finish. Bring something close to you: either  an idea or a physical object. You will then have the opportunity to perform your work later in the day. From page to stage we’ll prime your rhyme.

Award-winning author Wyl Menmuir’s first venture into full-length, non-fiction, The Draw of the Sea, won the Roger Deakin Award from the Society of Authors. The ocean fires our imagination, provides joy, solace and play but also wields immense destructive power. The book explores communities whose lives revolve around the coasts of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. In the specifics of these livelihoods and their rich histories and traditions, Wyl captures the universal human connection to the sea and interweaves the story of how the sea has beckoned, consoled and restored him.

You’ll undertake a series of mini word-crafting experiments to hone skills and learn how to impact the reader/audience in specific ways. Familiar techniques, offered with a twist, include: sensory impressions, bodily experience, emotion, point of view, the narrative arc, rhythm, tension, voice and character. Practical work is accompanied by readings of inspirational poetry and underpinned by Bridget’s holistic theoretical approach – fusing creative writing, embodied psychology, nature-based and non-dual theory. Suitable for both fledgling and experienced wordsmiths in all genres.

Cornish-based writer Sara MacDonald will discuss the themes in her book, The Long Road from Kandahar. Her son was sent to  fight in Afghanistan in 2009 and Sara’s book tells of the impact of war and separation on families. It is also an exploration of friendship and trust that transcends cultural differences for the English and Pakistani boys at the heart of her story.

Prize-winning author, Nina Stibbe makes a welcome return to the LitFest stage to discuss her latest novel – about the ebb and flow of female friendship over half a lifetime. One Day I Shall Astonish the World tells the story of best friends Susan (never Sue) and Norma, and of the wonderful and sometimes surprising path their friendship takes: from its conspiratorial beginnings, along its irritating wrong turns, to its final gratifying destination. As in all of Nina’s books, the everyday is made funny and often moving at the same time.

Come along to support and hear sparkling poetry, newly created earlier in the day with the help of Megan Chapman (aka MCMC Spoken). These budding poets will step up to the microphone – some for the very first time – to perform their works and need an audience. The lyrical rhyming wizard herself will also share her own mesmerising words.

The Granite Kingdom is a fascinating, lyrical account of an east-west walk across Cornwall: a distant and exotic Celtic land, domain of tin miners, pirates, smugglers and evocatively named saints – somehow separate from the rest of our island and where mythologies abound. Travel writer Tim Hannigan talks about his zigzagging journey on foot to discover how the real Cornwall – its landscapes, histories, communities and sense of identity – intersects with the many projections and tropes that writers, artists and others have placed upon it.

Planet Barratt Is a spiffing hour of comedy and stories from Dudley-born and Cornwall-dwelling comic poet and singer Rob Barratt, who nobody has ever heard of, except the Penzance LitFest. If you missed him last time, make sure you book your tickets for this show, which has a beginning, a middle bit and an end, and has been described as not only clever but funny.

Published poet and NHS speech therapist, Ella Walsworth-Bell believes that anyone – anyone! – can create poetry for themselves in their own unique voice. In this workshop, you will take the sea as the starting point and draw on joyful memories and experiences in and around the coastline. A series of exercises will strengthen your creative muscles and have you putting pen and paper together. Natural objects and visual prompts will help add sensory elements to your poems. Whether you’ve written poetry before or simply want to try something new, let’s drift away on an ocean of words…

Award-winning author Kim Sherwood’s latest novel, A Wild & True Relation, was described by the late Dame Hilary Mantel as “a rarity – a novel as remarkable for the vigour of the storytelling as for its literary ambition”. During the Great Storm of 1703, smuggler Tom West takes revenge on his lover Grace for betraying him to the Revenue and carries off her orphaned daughter to join his crew, disguised as a boy. The girl Molly – now Orlando – grows up to outshine all his men and wreak her own revenge.  Kim’s new spin on the 18th-century heroical novel challenges women’s roles throughout history.

Chris Moore explores the remarkable life of the man described by David Attenborough as the patron saint of conservation and whose story is told in Chris’s book, Peter Scott and the Birth of Modern Conservation. Chris was actively involved in the team that lovingly converted and catalogued Sir Peter’s former home in Slimbridge to create the Scott House Museum, which opened in 2019. With global warming threatening the mass extinction of wildlife, Sir Peter’s story is a vivid reminder of these challenges and what we stand to lose.

Do you love poetry? Or, maybe, you’d just like to dip your toe in? Last year marked the 250th anniversary of the birth of the South West’s Samuel Taylor Coleridge. In this illustrated talk, John Hall brings alive the timeless themes of the wonderful ‘Rime of the Ancient Mariner’ through his own poem ‘The Modern Trooper’. This will be a totally unique, attention-grabbing event with plenty of opportunity for interaction.

Ideas can arrive from anywhere, surprising the writer as much as a plot twist can surprise the reader. All are dependent on strong characters to deliver a gripping read. Bestselling crime writers Jo Jakeman, Sam Blake and Roz Watkins discuss ideas and inspiration, how  three ordinary women constantly plot to kill – and the impact of Cornwall  on their writing.

Adam Skerrett is a wandering storyteller, recently returned from a bardic quest to walk the South West Coast Path, trailing the story lines that run through the great myths of this land. You are invited to hear the wonder tale of his walk, woven into the stories of the coast. Expect poetry, myth-telling and adventure; for magic is afoot upon the path!

In nonfiction, Julie Myerson’s latest novel, a mother narrates the relationship with her child, who is struggling with addiction, while also attempting to understand her uneasy, unresolved relationship with her own mother. The Times described it as ‘Her best novel yet’ and the Daily Mail as ‘Incredibly compelling’, with The Observer pronouncing it ‘Incandescent’. Critic, columnist and author of ten novels, including the bestselling Something Might Happen, Julie talks to Patrick Gale about this story of a mother, daughter, wife and author seeking to make sense of her world.

1.30pm to 3.30pm MORRAB LIBRARY You’ll definitely have fun at this workshop where Young Adult author Tracy Darnton will encourage you to arrive at your own authentic YA voice by releasing your inner teen – whatever your age! With plenty of tips from her own publishing journey with the award-winning The Truth About Lies, The Rules and her latest book set in Cornwall, Ready or Not, Tracy will inspire you to work on your own YA fiction. And, what’s more, we’ve heard that there might be free Curly Wurlies!

Well, is there anybody there? For most writers, most of the time, the answer seems to be ‘no’. We spend years of our lives working on our craft, submitting work to agent after agent, publisher after publisher, but no-one opens the door. And then, one day, someone says ‘yes’ and we know that we have arrived. Lucinda Hart talks about her contemporary family dramas set in Cornwall, The Broken Air and The Beautiful Blue, and her previous novel, Oberon Out, a comedy of errors loosely based on A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Freya Bromley and Sophie Pierce both share a love of swimming. Sadly, they also have in common the death of a close family member: for Freya, her brother, and for Sophie, her son Felix. They have both written accounts about coming to terms with their grief. Freya decided to swim every tidal pool in Britain and The Tidal Year describes how this created space for reflection and hope. Sophie lives on the edge of Dartmoor in Devon. Her memoir, The Green Hill: Letters to a Son, was composed during walks and swims taken close to his burial place by the River Dart. Freya and Sophie share their stories with Cathy Rentzenbrink, novelist and memoirist, who wrote movingly about the death of her own brother in The Last Act of Love.

Writing a book is only part of the job. So much of the success of a manuscript depends on the editing and rewriting and that happens after an author types ‘THE END’. In this workshop, Scott Pack, who edits books for a living, will take you through his editing process and offer lots of handy tips on how to go about revising your own work before you send it out to agents or publishers, or self-publish.

Leslie Cavendish left school at 15 years old to become a hairdresser. He worked for the iconic 1960s hair stylist Vidal Sassoon, counting many of the stars of the day among his clients. But, the jewel in his career’s crown was styling four very famous heads of hair: those of The Beatles. Leslie was part of their inner circle from 1966, attending Beatles recording sessions and joining the band on their Magical Mystery Tour from London to Teignmouth, Bodmin, Liskeard and Plymouth. He wrote about his days with The Beatles in his book, The Cutting Edge, and will share stories and photos of this time.

This evening with local poet Gray Lightfoot is a performance of poetry (by himself), a one-act play (with two actors) and two short stories, ‘The Triumph of Goliathia Tremayne’ by Catherine Leyshon and ‘Up Frogs’ by Ross James (which we hope will be read by the authors). These address the issues that make Cornwall the second poorest region in Northern Europe, of which the millions of holidaymakers often remain unaware. Gray’s drama Sea Fear is a conversation between an old poet and a young Redruth mother whose children have never been to the beach. It is set on Carn Brea – and has a happy ending.

Join Anna McClary’s guided stroll through the streets and alleys of Penzance to the places where authors either lived or stayed for a short time. Did they arrive at the same conclusion as nearly 5 million annual visitors have done? Penzance is amazing and has so many stories to tell. This tour is always very popular so book early as numbers are limited.

Writer Lucy Cooper grew up in West Penwith, infused in a landscape of folklore and fairy tales. In this workshop, she explores how connecting with the Celtic festivals of the year – drawing on ritual, ceremony, folklore, myths, stories and poetry associated with the turning of the seasons – can inform and infuse our writing and creativity. Held in a circle, this session is for those curious to connect with the cycles of the seasons and deepen their creative practice.

Litfest At The Cinema, The Engine Room at The Exchange. Join us for our first Saturday Cinema event with two fascinating films that you will not have seen elsewhere plus a chance to meet and question the writers and directors.

KESTAV (Contact) is a 15-minute, science-fiction film on the theme of arrival and departure – in Cornish (with subtitles). Watch the film and then discover how screenwriter Marie Macneill and BAFTA award-winning director Christopher Morris wrote and developed KESTAV, with its Cornish-speaking alien, from initial idea to full script and completed film.

“I am fascinated by how history flows through our lives, and especially through artists’ lives and work.” Author and art historian Michael Bird discusses The St Ives Artists: A Biography of Place and Time, newly reissued in paperback, and his latest book, This is Tomorrow: 20th-century Britain and its Artists, showing how art reflects the multi-sensory ‘texture’ of the modern past.

Philip Larkin’s mistress and muse Monica Jones’ secrets were hidden in the uncatalogued papers, which drew researcher Susan Walker to Hull archives when assisting Professor John Sutherland with his book Monica Jones, Philip Larkin and Me. There she found a treasure trove of information – and one that, for the first time, revealed a very different story about Monica’s life.

This fascinating documentary feature film and supporting book, by well-known St Ives author Bobby Osborne and award-winning filmmaker Diana Taylor, covers the life of D.H. Lawrence in Cornwall. It is set around the Tregerthen Farm area in Zennor where Lawrence wrote Women in Love. The film interweaves  between Lawrence and the prominent personalities of the time, the history of the house and many of the local characters, as well as original and archive documents. It is a kaleidoscope of  music, poetry, documentary fact and surreality.

For eleven LitFest years and several before, Cornish performance poet, Diana Dixon has corralled poets into a suitable venue (usually licensed and always friendly!) to read and listen to other poets’ work. The format remains the same, with poets choosing where they would like to appear on the lengthy list and how long they will read/perform.  All poets, from the published to newcomers, are warmly welcomed into this all-inclusive ambience and to ride the Poetry Open Mic Express. All aboard…

On Saturday evening, we’re holding a celebratory event to bring the curtain down on the 2023 Penzance LitFest. This FREE informal event is your chance to mingle with the team (and maybe an author or two) and soak up the literary atmosphere for one final time before we put everything back on the bookshelf until next year. 

We’ll be showing some rather special Shakespeare shorts on the screen, drinks will be available from the bar, and we hope to bring you some more surprises throughout the night. 

Please book a free ticket so we can estimate numbers and turn up at the Acorn from 7pm for an informal night of fun.

And, if you’re looking for the quiz, make sure you have signed up for the LitFest newsletter. We will be announcing a new date for Spencer’s Big LitFest Quiz very soon.

DogHeads

Experimental electronic duo adrift in the sonic space/time continuum, through hypnotic ambient soundscapes and driving industrial beats.

“Some of the most perplexing noises this side of the Tamar”

The Electric Timothy

“Three musicians, each with a long and amazingly musical history, who’ve been playing together in one form or another since school days. Now they’re The Electric Timothy, exploring some of the lesser spotted guitar pop gems from the last 40 years. They’ve been likened to Teenage Fanclub meeting Hüsker Dü at a Lemonheads gig and are more than happy for you to think that.”

Work’us

(Dickensian. Slang. Derog., ‘Workhouse’) With flavours of post-punk, industrial, trip-hop and grunge/noise, these boys deliver observational and pithy poetry over crunchy beats and found sounds with secret melodies and  other ’sonic treats’.

The Guns N Roses Experience – the official Guns ‘N’ Roses tribute show. GnRe have the only singer able to deliver the exact same unique vocal style and stage show synonymous with Classic Axl Rose. GnRe have the only tribute band guitarist OFFICIALLY SUPPORTED by MARSHALL AMPS, just like the legend SLASH himself.

The Tropical Balkan project Theo Mizú & Banda features an original mix of eastern and western musical references, promising a groovy musical journey around the world. The project has been elected as the Best Street Band in São Paulo, and has performed in festivals and venues around Brazil, Southeast Asia and Europe.

Theo Mizú is a composer and multi-instrumentalist from São Paulo, Brazil, who started his career at the age of 19 in Northern Thailand. With a dream of traveling the world and his love for music, Theo chose the road as home, living and traveling with his music around Southeast Asia and Europe for most of his 20’s.

With the opportunity to get in contact with many musical/cultural references while traveling, Theo started developing a mixed sound between his new discoveries and his Brazilian music background, connecting Baião to Balkan through the power of dance, a universal language and a human’s natural instinct.

Returning to Brazil, Theo started writing band arrangements for his compositions, and after playing them on busking sessions they were elected the Best Street Band in São Paulo in his first year of band. Since then Theo has been playing his music with varied musicians in festivals and venues all around the world.

The “Tropical Balkan Tour 2023” will be Theo’s third tour in the UK, completing almost 100 gigs including Bearded Theory Festival, Balter Festival, Buddhafield, the Barrel House Totnes [SOLD OUT], Cornish Bank and the Hootananny Brixton.

The Acorns “Artist in Residence” Dave Mynne, brings you…

Canterbury Tales

Welcome to ‘The Canterbury’, an Olde English Inn,

Infamous around these parts for villainy and sin.

The floor is caked in sawdust, for soaking up the spit,

And the air is thick with stories told with wisdom, guile and wit.

Some stories are romantic, some are bawdy, others scary

And there are tales about the devil that should make you oh so wary,

Some are beautifully poetic and some a little coarser;

A medieval medley from the pen of Geoffrey Chaucer!

From the company that brought you ‘A Christmas Carol’, ‘Great Expectations’, ‘Dracula’ and ‘The Odyssey’ comes a one-man performance of ‘The Canterbury Tales’.

Revered as one of the most important works in English literature, ‘The Canterbury Tales’ paints an ironic and critical portrait of English society in the middle-ages.

All of life is here in these few bawdy, funny and sometimes shocking short stories. Experience a journey down the foul and fetid footpaths of fourteenth-century England, told with the usual irreverence, wit and silliness!

Expect naughtiness, nonsense and medieval swearing!

It’s rude! It’s ribald! It’s ridiculous! Let’s party like it’s 1387!

This is Chaucer… but not as you think you know it!

Suitable for adults and older children (12+). Unsuitable for serious scholars of middle-English literature! Contains mild swearing and comic sexual reference.

Director: Simon Harvey

Performer: David Mynne

Script (very loosely adapted from the original!) by Simon Harvey, David Mynne and Anna Maria Murphy

davidmynne.com

Sinpusher Is A Three Piece “Classic Rock Covers Band” Who Hail From West Cornwall. They Utilise The Simplicity Of Guitar, Bass & Drums To Deliver Their Set Of High Octane Classic Rock Covers & originals. The Three Members:

​​Ty – Guitar & Vocals

Ryan – Drums & Vocals

Jason – Bass

​Sinpusher Deliver A Two Hour Plus Show That Is A High Energy Ride From Start To Finish And Not To Be Missed By Anyone Of Any Age !!!
They Have A Wealth Of Stage And Performance Experience Having Clocked Up 1000’s Of Gigs The Length And Breadth Of The Uk To Date.

Devils Creek

Rocking the blues with a sledgehammer groove. Cornish band Devils Creek formed in 2006.
Over the years the band has played venues and festivals across the UK and in Europe, and have been featured on BBC Radio and
Planet Rock. The band have released five albums –

Bullfrog Blues (2007)
Working the Chains (2008)
Th3rds (2011)
Live at the Proms (2012)
Teeth (2012)

Fast forward to 2023 – Devils Creek feature original members Guy Rosewall (Guitar and Vocals) and Tim Chapple (Bass). They are joined by Nina Hudson on drums.

The Monochrome Set are visiting the South West for the first time to promote their 16th album, ‘Allhallowtide’.
Featuring original Monochrome Set members Bid (Guitar/Vocals) and Andy Warren (bass) with Athen Ayren on keyboards and Stephen Gilchrist on drums.
The Monochrome Set formed in 1978, and were heavily influential in the ‘post-punk’ scene that evolved after the initial scorched earth of punk.
The band’s early releases were on the legendary Rough Trade Label before signing with Virgin offshoot Din Disc. They also released several albums on the Cherry Red label, making a notable appearance on that labels’ well known ‘Pillows and Prayers’ compilation. Though The Monochrome Set split in 1985 the next decade saw several reunions for both live gigs and further studio recordings.
After a hiatus of over a decade the band reformed full time in 2010 and have since toured all over the UK, Europe, Japan and the USA, whilst also releasing seven new, critically acclaimed, studio albums. Now in their 45th year, they are beginning a new series of gigs promoting their latest album and playing songs old and new.

An intimate acoustic Tribute to the music of JONI MITCHELL.

Acclaimed singer/songwriters Zervas & Pepper present ‘This Flight Tonight‘ an intimate acoustic tribute to the music of Joni Mitchell.

Featuring songs such as ‘California‘, ‘Blue‘, ‘Woodstock‘ ‘Both Sides Now‘, ‘Coyote‘, ‘Big Yellow Taxi‘, ‘A Case Of You‘, and many more..

Joni Mitchell is one of the most influential artists of the modern age, rising to stardom in the late 1960s. Her music and songwriting is the jewel in the crown of the Woodstock generation. Bursting onto the scene with a sound entirely her own, Joni earned the respect of her musical peers and the love of her audiences Worldwide.

Joni would go on to mine the depths of her emotive landscape and push the boundaries of songcraft and artistry for over five decades.

Mitchell’s albums and songs are widely recognised as masterpieces, standards that would become the soundtrack to the lives of countless fans throughout the world and continue to draw and inspire new generations of fans.

Zervas & Pepper are Welsh Singer/Songwriters Paul Zervas and Kathryn Pepper that have been creating and performing original music for over a decade professionally. The duo and their recording/touring band enjoy cult success on the UK and European Folk/Americana scene and have released five critically-acclaimed studio albums and undertaken countless live headline and support tours, receiving strong national and international network radio support throughout their career and their original music garnering praise and accolades from the likes of CSN&Y legend David Crosby, BBC DJ’s Mark Radcliffe, Bob Harris, Lauren Laverne and Don Letts.

‘This Flight Tonight’ is a celebration of Joni Mitchell’s music that the duo have had in the making for many years, and now 2023 will see them finally take this show on the road for the first time. The carefully-crafted set list will feature songs from Joni’s million-selling albums such as Clouds, Ladies of the Canyon, For The Roses, Court and Spark, featuring many cuts from her 1972

landmark release ‘Blue’. “We are musical purist’s” Kathryn Pepper explains. “If we’re going to present Joni’s music for a live show then we are going to aim to recreate the performances almost exactly as they were intended, as songwriters and performers ourselves we know that every single note, inflection, momentary pause was placed there by the artist with intent. We hold Joni Mitchell’s music in the utmost regard, and so we aim to capture its inner spirit and channel its majesty into each live performance”

Paul Zervas says “Joni’s music has so much depth, musically, lyrically and melodically. There’s so much to get your head around when attempting to recreate this classic songbook.. As a guitarist who learned to play from listening to Joni’s incredible catalogue, it’s just staggering the sheer amount of alternate tunings, variances of chord positions and nuanced harmonic voicings that have gone into all these songs. We aim to be as authentic as possible when performing this music as it’s these important facets that the fans want to hear, with Joni’s music her tunings and alternative melodic approaches are just as important as her lyrics, its the interplay between to two that create the full picture of Mitchell’s evocative landscape.”

As young songwriters, Zervas & Pepper like many music fans were beguiled by Mitchell’s music. “This music had such a profound effect on me that I completely immersed myself within Joni’s albums. Musically complex, lyrically intriguing.. I became an avid listener.. I learned to use my voice in ways I hadn’t for my early bands” Kathryn recalls.

We’ve thought long and hard about the type of show we ourselves would love to see as lifelong fans of Joni Mitchell’s music. We kept returning to what we consider to be the nucleus of Mitchell’s work, that pivotal break-out period 1968-1976 Reprise/Asylum Record era with the voice, guitar and piano front and centre. An intimate acoustic vibe that should feel like the audience is having a private listening session at Joni’s house in Laurel Canyon during the summer of love. Whilst we may not be able to actually fly in Crosby, Stills & Nash, James Taylor or Mama Cass.. we hope to invoke that spirit in our show.

– Band Line up –

Kathryn Pepper – Lead Vocals/ Dulcimer/ Percussion

Paul Zervas – Acoustic Guitar

Andrew Brown – Bass Guitar

Frazer McIntosh – Piano

Sam Andrews – Electric guitar/ Congas, Percussion

The word ‘Troubadour’ gets banded about all too easily these days. An evocative and meaningful term generally used to add interest and intrigue to every gap-year singer-songwriter chancer sporting skinny jeans and a wide-brimmed hat. But what would the modern Troubadour look like? Would you even know if they crossed your path? They would probably be a multi-instrumentalist who is at home making music in any setting; from a garden party to the coffee shop, and from an intimate venue to a festival stage. They would wander the byways of their home patch as naturally as they travel the globe. They would have a healthy disregard for convention and music genres, but most of all, they would be able to engage with and entertain an audience. If you think such a musician is the stuff of myth, you clearly have yet to encounter Chris Murphy.

A native New Yorker now found basking in the California sun, Chris is an artist who blurs boundaries and defies easy categorization. A solo act and a band member. An exceptional violinist who can just as easily throw in some virtuoso mandolin work. A singer with a natural rapport. He is a musician as comfortable playing bluegrass and country as he is rock and blues. He can fire off salvos of Celtic jigs and folk reels as readily as soothing classical-infused serenades, and is just as likely to be found recording rousing Americana albums as he is creating ambient electronica-driven soundscapes. Now that sounds like a modern Troubadour to me.

But it isn’t enough just to act like said Troubadour, but if you want more proof, it can easily be found in the music. Listen to “Sailing the World Alone,” and you hear the lyrical wanderlust writ large to an authentic roots-rock sound. Before everything else, Chris Murphy is an entertainer and his music is about not only getting the party started, but keeping it going throughout a gig. I could go on, but I won’t. I don’t need to; with THE ROAD AND THE STARS compilation you hold in your hands everything you need to explore his musical world. Already a permanent fixture on the USA circuit, listeners in Europe and beyond are now falling for his not-inconsiderable sonic charms. And with around 250 gigs a year in the diary and an ever-growing following, it won’t be long until he is playing in your town. From personal experience, I can say that when he’s not plying his musical trade, he makes for perfect company, too. Just add a glass of neat Irish whiskey to the proceedings, and you have the makings of a great afternoon, not to mention a friend for life.

Chris Murphy (USA) and Barney Kenny (UK) are traditional musicians from both sides of the Atlantic. After a chance meeting in 2022, these two musicians performed a short run of impromptu concerts together and found that the outcome on stage was nothing short of a natural musical meeting.

Their two styles of playing (Chris, a folk/jazz and gypsy violinist and Barney, a traditional English/Irish folk player) blend effortlessly to provide a show of rip-roaring reels and jigs, americana songs, Anglo-Celtic melancholy and country-blues influences. Enjoy an evening of solo and duo performances from two fantastic players on a unique and special run of shows this July.

Psychic Medium Nikki Kitt is a Spiritualist Medium who is currently touring the UK with her successful Psychic / Mediumship Evenings.
As a Medium Nikki Kitt aims to provide evidence of life after life by getting links from loved ones in spirit for people in the audience with amazing accuracy in descriptions, personalities and all sorts of personal information.. to give both confirmation and comfort.
I have been aware of spirit my whole life and so have no doubt that we carry on after this physical life and my demonstrations are to prove the same to everyone else.

Testimonies:-

“Hi Nikki I attended your evening last night and just wanted to say that you have an amazing talent”

“I have seen many mediums and psychics over the years and you are by far the best and most accurate the details you give are amazing”

“My god went to see Psychic Medium Nikki Kitt tonight my mum came through soooo happy she was spot on with everything.. Thank you Nikki amazing night”

Stompin’ Dave & Lucy Piper Trio

Stompin’ Dave teams up with superb drummer Lucy Piper and outstanding bassist Sophie Lord to form an exciting new trio.

“In other parts of the world, they have cyclones, tornados and hurricanes, in the UK we have Stompin’ Dave. Dave is a phenomenal artist” Blues In The South. A former member of former UK Blues Band of the Year The Producers. Stompin’ Dave was nominated for a British Blues Award in 2014.

With over twenty-five years of experience working exclusively as a musician, Dave has consistently given over one hundred performances per year across the UK and beyond, including many major festivals such as Glastonbury, Bestival, and Camp Bestival.

Exeter-based drummer Lucy Piper is the daughter of the late blues guitarist, writer and broadcaster Julian Piper – widely acknowledged as a leading UK exponent and authority on blues. Lucy performed with Julian’s band Junkyard Angels. The band were often the backing band for touring musicians from the USA.

In the past few years, Lucy has spent many nights performing in Mississippi, USA alongside many top musicians including the multi-Blues Music Award-winning Watermelon Slim. Lucy played drums on Ryan Perry’s album High Risk, Low Reward, which was nominated for a Blues Music Award 2020. (Universally recognized as the highest award in blues music.)

Joining Dave and Lucy is tremendous bassist Sophie Lord. Mentored by Norman Watt-Roy bass player with Ian Dury and The Blockheads, Sophie has performed with an eclectic mix of different artists including former members of Level 42, UK singles charting R&B artist Marlon Roudette, and punk legend Viv Albertine lead singer of The Slits.

Sophie currently performs with all-star blues band Bluesclub which includes former members of Paul McCartney, Dire Straits, and The Pretenders.

“Stompin’ Dave is a master of all kinds of American roots” The Telegraph

“Let’s face it, in adding the quality of his original material the man is a downright genius.” Blues In Britain.

A Supersonic Show Of The Very Best Oasis Anthems

“Noasis is the definitive tribute to Manchester’s super group Oasis”, formed in 2006, the band has toured extensively performing the anthems that have defined a generation! With obsessive attention to detail, Noasis recreates the real Oasis experience playing all the classic songs as if they were their own.

Sing your hearts out to all the biggest hits in this full-on show!

Quotes:  

“Noasis with 20,000 people ‘avin it?!…We gotta get out and do something”– Liam Gallagher

“Top band, top bunch of lads” – Original Oasis guitarist – Paul ‘Bonehead’ Arthurs

“Let’s hear it for Noasis, Amazing!” – Chris Evans, Virgin Radio

“Noasis rocked the palace tonight” – The Alexandra Palace, London

Wizz Jones – Acoustic Guitarist, Singer Songwriter and Bluesman

Influential folk and blues guitarist Wizz Jones  is admired and emulated by some of folk and rock’s greatest players.  He was originally inspired by hearing such great artists as Big Bill Broonzy and Ramblin’ Jack Elliot at a blues club hosted by Alexis Korner  and as a teenage troubadour Wizz learnt his guitar licks from contemporaries such as  Davy Graham and Long John Baldry whilst playing in the coffee bars of London’s Soho in the late 1950’s.
Both Eric  Clapton and Keith Richards plus a few more famous faces have all named him as an important early influence and in May 2012 Bruce Springsteen opened his Berlin show with Wizz’s song ‘When I Leave Berlin’.
Having been presented with  a life-time achievement award at the BBC Radio Two Folk  Awards in October 2019   Wizz is now officially retired at the age of  84 but can still be tempted to cross the Tamar for his annual gig at The Acorn!

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the Ultimate Abba Party with one of the Top Abba Tributes in the Uk! Appealing to all age groups and bringing you the music of one of the most successful bands of all time, “TAKE A CHANCE ON US!” is a fantastic fully live Abba tribute show. This show sells out regularly! So book early. The Abba story continues to be written with the new film , themed restaurants, new songs it never seems to loose its popularity and just keeps growing. If you can’t see the real thing then you can still experience the wonderful songs of Abba fantastically recreated in this fully show. The show contains Six piece band, voiceovers, costume changes, choreographed dance routines, and light show, projection(where possible) and so much more. The band members encourage lots of audience participation and of course it includes all the well known iconic and favourite Abba Hits! So put on those platform boots and funky suits, (or just a boa!) and join us for a night of ABBA madness! The performers bring energy and fun to the stage and a few surprises that will ensure you will have a fantastic night to remember. This massively popular show has been selling out regularly, with the band members wonderful personalities, and fantastic musicianship, you’ll be glad you “ Took A Chance On Us!” Perfect for celebrations or just a great night out!

An improbable, ceremonial night of words, wonder and spirit work. Stories and observations by author/culture activist Stephen Jenkinson, drawn from his decades of work in palliative care, are woven with original songs/sonics by recording artist Gregory Hoskins.

These two Canadian artists have been exploring the intersection of their work for eight years, across three continents, in 3 recordings and two short films.

They are on the road again, as they did in the beginning: a singer and a storyteller out into the mystery days to Israel, the UK, Scandinavia, Australia, the USA and Canada.

Concerts for Turbulent Times they surely are. Not poets, maybe, but the evenings are poetic. The Nights are musical, grave, raucous, and stilling, which probably means they are theatrical. They have the mark of our time upon them, timely, urgent, alert, and steeped in mortal mystery. Love letters to life are written and read aloud. There’s some boldness in them. They have that tone. They’re quixotic. They have swagger. What would you call such a thing? They called it Nights of Grief & Mystery.

Come and immerse yourself in this brand-new, Lady Gaga Experience. Complete with Live Musicians, Stunning Dancers and all the memorable Gaga moments from her career.

Way back in the halcyon days of rock, there came a trio of ‘superheroes’ known as the Groundhogs, riding the blues boom into unchartered territory, they gained a reputation as one of the most dynamic live acts around, and are influential and inspirational to this day.  The classic line-up of Tony McPhee, Ken Pustelnik and Pete Cruickshank toured the world for 6 years straight, including seminal shows with the Rolling Stones, John Lee Hooker, John Mayall and Canned Heat, and at the legendary 1970 Isle of Wight festival along with Jimi Hendrix.  In this time they produced 4 renowned albums: ‘Blues Obituary’, ‘Thank Christ for the Bomb’, ‘Split’ and ‘Who Will Save the World’…

Now Ken Pustelnik brings you a new and exciting line-up – Groundhogs, playing that classic material with verve and power, and giving performances of energy and excitement that are as fresh and relevant to the modern audience as the originals were back in the day… “They pretty much tore shit up and blew me away.. one of the best acts of the entire festival”  (orangeamps.com)

The Band

Ken Pustelnik (drums) Original member of the classic line-up, officially joined in 1967, leaving at the height of their success in 1972 and features on all of the first 5 Groundhogs albums.

Chris D’Avoine  (Vocals/Lead Guitar) Incendiary guitarist of Mean Blue Monsters, Snatch it Back (w/ Ken Pustelnik) and formerly with numerous outfits such as Shiva.

Latch Manghat (Bass) Heavy and hard-driving bassist of cult British stoner-metal band Gonga, Guitarist/Vocalist of the Rollbars, and producer of numerous artists such as the Heads.

Sol Latif (Lead Guitar) Long-standing member of the Rollbars, formerly lead guitarist of Lastwind (w/ Ken and Latch), his ability to traverse the intricate and unorthodox sections are unmatched.

groundhogs.org.uk

Liz Ikamba, singer and multi-instrumentalist from Brighton returns to Cornwall for a second Summer running to serve up some gorgeous Congolese-tilted Afro-soul-folk songs. Her music fuses elements of a range of sounds from dub-reggae, folk and soukous to hip-hop and traditional African rhythms. Her voice conveys a richness that honours African diasporic influences as well as greats like Nina Simone and Sade.

In Liz’s shows, the audience is encouraged to step into the heart and soul of the musical arena to add voices to the catchy hooks in English and Lingala. She has just released her debut EP ‘Mama’, a remarkable collection of songs weaving in personal and ancestral narratives with special tributes paid to her late parents.

‘Mama’ continues to win high praise and radio plays including BBC 6 Music. John Warr of Afrobase on Radio Reverb called it ‘an inspired and beautiful fusion of folk influenced soul and Congolese music’.

For a taster of Liz’s music, visit her website https://lizikamba.com and YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@lizikamba7620

What is NOS LOWEN??   “.. a kind of madcap Cornish ceilidh”  according to The Guardian.

It’s a lively, fun night where you’ll be encouraged to join in with simple dances to great tunes played by Penzance band JACKSON’S CLARET.

Nos Lowen is Cornish for “happy night” and is a recently developed style of Cornish-Celtic dance featuring only Cornish dances. 

It’s a new way of celebrating ancient Cornish regional dances placing greater emphasis on simpler, repetitive dances resulting in tribal trance-like states and increased audience participation. 

JACKSON’S CLARET are new champions of Cornish traditional music who perform Cornish tunes and songs from the 1700s up until the present day. The combination of Melodeon (John Gallagher), Bouzouki & vocals (Pete London), Bodhran (Kate Evans) and fiddle (Andy Law), breathes new life into arrangements of well-known and more obscure Cornish songs, tunes and dances.

All proceeds to be donated to Montol Festival – a Penzance celebration of Winter Solstice

TUBULAR BELLS + extracts from DARK SIDE OF THE MOON 

for the MOOG SYNTHESIZER

50th Anniversaries

Live solo performance by MARK JENKINS with computer graphic projections

That spine-tingling theme from “The Exorcist” is Mike Oldfield’s “TUBULAR BELLS” – an epic of rock music celebrating 50 Years in 2023 alongside Pink Floyd’s “DARK SIDE OF THE MOON”. Between them, the two albums have sold 60 million copies.

Now music tech journalist MARK JENKINS has arranged “Tubular Bells” for a solo live performance using the latest music technology plus a spectacular synchronised video and laser show. Experience this stunning melodic album as you’ve never heard it before, and enjoy extracts from “Dark Side of the Moon” complete with great vocal performances in massive computer graphic projections.

Celebrate the complete “Tubular Bells” and tracks like “On The Run”, “Eclipse” and of course “The Sailor’s Hornpipe”

The Slinky Minsky’s are Cornwall’s very own caburlesque act! Blending together the wildness of cabaret with timeless touches of burlesque.

Cabaret and Burlesque are art forms where everyone is embraced, accepted, and celebrated, and The Slinky Minsky’s truly live for this. Together they share a message of body acceptance, sex positivity and queerness in all its glorious forms. Whether you are young or old, tall or small, plumptious or scrumdiddlyumptious, in our eyes you are all delicious.

Your hostess with the mostess, the beautiful Babalicious, will serenade you with her sultry, seductive singing. While Mz Guilty Pleasure and Miss Hunny Bunny, delight you with the art of tease. Feathers, frolics and fun to be had by all. Expect vintage vibes with modern twists and some sassy show tunes for good measure!

After their sell out performance last year at the Acorn Theatre Penzance, The Slinky Minsky’s are back for another night filled with music, dancing, and a lot more giggles. Come and empower your sexy, be playful and embody your sensual side. Dust off those tailcoats, slip into something slinky and let’s celebrate how beautiful we all are!

Son of Dave is a Bluesman. Not traditional, but has begun a new tradition, perhaps. Playing the harmonica, layering up beatbox grooves, stomping and playing percussion, then writing passionate, growling infectious songs overtop, he defies category. A truly maverick Bluesman, many have come to find his tunes through programs like Breaking Bad, Preacher, Bloodline and others where his unique songs have been featured.

He comes originally from Winnipeg, Canada (born Benjamin Darvill). He’s toured all over Europe and North America as well as more off-centre countries such as Uganda, South Africa, Lebanon, Russia and more. His one-man show is fun and unforgettable.

As a young harmonica player he worked in the Blues and biker bars of Manitoba. Being nurtured in the tradition of Midwest Blues and Canadian folk music, he joined Crash Test Dummies at it’s beginnings and rode that wave for four albums and ten years until returning to his more humble, rhythmic desires and the tunes he’d been working on through those dizzying years. The music business almost crumbled with the switch to digital, but Son found a path through the old-fashioned way, playing clubs and building an audience from scratch. His recordings found their way to millions of fans without the backing of a big label or hit machine.

Embarking on a year of singles, EPs and an inevitable 9th album, at 52 years of age, there is no sign of slowing down. Well, the knees and back aren’t what they used to be…

Support comes from up-and-coming Cornish bluesman C-bone

Guitarist, songwriter and producer Darren Roberts returns to the Acorn with his amazing band for the third instalment of what has become a biennial series of Qube Records Fundraising Concerts.

Darren has been performing and releasing music for 20 years both as a solo artist and in bands including Blank Panda, The Raise and Floorjam. 3 of his 4 solo album have charted around the world and his new album “Murmurations”, his first since 2016’s acclaimed “Downswing”, is out this summer.

In his day job Darren runs Qube Records, the in-house record label of Mounts Bay Academy. The label has released music written and produced by MBA students since 2014 and last year the young performers toured Italy and surpassed 3/4 of a million worldwide downloads!

Expect a set featuring music from across Darren’s 20 year career with a generous helping of very special Qube Records guests from past and present!

Support comes from Qube alumni Lily Cooke who’s skill as a poet and gorgeous vocals have earned rave reviews since her first single “Dissimilarity” landed in 2020.

“[Sweet Leaf of The North] my favourite song of the last decade” Iggy Pop.

Hugely popular Leeds-based trio Mik Artistik’s Ego Trip are well known for their unique live performances and madcap antics deeming every performance not just a gig, but a truly momentous event. So much so that they have been entertaining the Glastonbury Festival for the last 11 years*. Some say Glastonbury hasn’t really started until they’ve seen one of Mik’s multiple performances.

Mik spouts poetic verse, creates chaos, plays air-crook lock (!), and all-out entertains over the top of an exquisite layer of rock, soul, funk, and punk created by multi-instrumentalist Jonny Flockton on electric guitar, mandolin, banjo, and ukelele.

They have over recent years established themselves as festival favourties having performed at many of the major UK festivals, including Boomtown Fair, Latitude, Bearded Theory, Beat Herder, Wilderness, Beautiful Days, as well the last 7 Port Eliot Festivals.

BBC Radio 6Music have long been playing Mik’s music with Gideon Coe, Chris Hawkins, Shaun Keaveny and Tom Robinson all big fans of the band.

In December last year no-less that rock icon and 6Music presenter Iggy Pop endorsed Mik’s anthem of hope ‘Sweet Leaf of the North’ as his favourite song of the last DECADE!.

“Best live band I have seen all summer” Gideon Coe
“Inspirational” John Cooper Clarke

The band, which was formed in 1975, to which its original founding member and guitarist Neil Harris remained in this lineup, until his untimely death this 4 years ago. Neil Harris who formed the band with Jimmy Pursey in 1975. Neil Harris was along with the other original members Albie Slider, Johnny Goodfornothing, Billy Bostik performing live with such hits as Borstal Breakout and Hey Little Rich Boy prior to the band’s second lineup change in late 1977. With hits such as BORSTAL BREAKOUT and HEY LITTLE RICH BOY being performed in 76-77, the band went on to have others such as HURRY UP HARRY, ANGELS WITH DIRTY FACES and the anthem IF THE KIDS ARE UNITED.

The band had many lineup changes but the most notable was Jimmy Pursey’s departure following his sacking in 2006, in which he was immediately replaced by the now vocalist Tim V.

Tim V’s reign saw him take the band from its lowest point to get it touring worldwide with 6 successful selling albums along with World Tours and major festivals…and he has clocked up more shows than any other previous lineup. The band currently features along with Tim V, the bands longest-serving drummer at 36 years behind the kit for SHAM 69.. Ian Whitewood. Unique…yes of course as the only UK Punk act to have toured China…unless you count WHAM in the Punk genre.

On Lead Guitar we have Paul Brightman, who joined for the band’s US Tour in 2016 and on Bass Al Campbell who joined the band in 2009, he has a pristine pedigree in Punk after serving 13 years with UK SUBS and playing with both Marky Ramone and Jayne County and the Electric Chairs.

Now with such anthemic like songs as SING WHEN YOUR WINNING making the charts both here in the UK and Europe and other songs in the last 4 years such as LAST GANG IN LONDON and more recent SIGN OF THE TIMES being used in movies, the band have achieved so much against the tide. The band who are praised for kicking arse onstage and at a ripe age are dumbfounding audiences worldwide with their passion and total stage presence.

So, this is SHAM 69 now and though many have scoffed at their existence they have come to regret it having been overwhelmed by the power of the performance.

OFFICIAL LINK: www.officialsham69.com

FACEBOOK: SHAM 69 TIM V

An evening of magic, mischief, Cornish music and dance – raising funds for Montol Festival- our special midwinter night here in Penzance.

We will be joined by three legendary Cornish bands- Raffidy Dumitz, Bagas Crowd and Keskorra.

Tros an Treys will be leading our serpents and furrys.

The evening will gather the Montol community and we will share much fun and silliness, dancing the night away!

We will be selling Montol Merchandise- including the amazing Sun Design T- Shirts! All proceeds go to helping us keep the tradition of Montol alive, thriving and FIRING! Raise our torches high to keep this special and sacred winter celebration secure for future generations so please, join us for this special evening and help keep the Montol fire burning bright.

Since 2016, Women in Rock have been wowing audiences across the UK & Europe with their sell-out show. Having just returned from a hugely successful global tour on board celebrity cruises, they are back in the UK and ready to take you on a journey featuring soaring vocals, choreography, audience interaction, striking costumes and backed by a band of world-class musicians, Women in Rock has built a reputation one of the most enjoyable music shows now touring the UK theatres. 

You will dance and sing along to this spectacular show celebrating 5 decades of the world’s greatest female rock legends. From Quatro to Joplin, Cher to Turner, Pink to Blondie, Heart to Benatar, the set list is endless is one classic after another and has something for everyone. 

A show for the whole family to enjoy and an unforgettable night of female rock music, so grab your tickets and let’s go!

Marvin Muoneké, one of the South West’s up and coming jazz artists, is a singer-songwriter and performing artist with a voice that has been often referred to as rich, deep and smooth. Bringing the songs and sounds of mid-20th century jazz and popular music to modern listeners of all ages, Marvin possesses a rare and beautiful presence that can light up any audience of any venue within seconds.Over the last ten years, Marvin has performed in several theatres and clubs at home and abroad, including The Weston Playhouse, Southampton’s Concorde Club, Pizza Express Holborn, Theatre Royal Winchester and the Pavilion Gabriel on Champs-Élysées in Paris.

Marvin first came to Penzance in 2021 on a busman’s holiday and did a busking session on the high street to much local acclaim and is delighted to be bringing his quartet along for what will be his first public gig in the beautiful county of Cornwall!

During the course of the Coronavirus pandemic, Marvin performed a weekly live-stream music show called Medley Time With Marvin and also independently produced and released his first two albums, “The Young Man With The Old Soul” and “Lockdown Hootenanny” and is currently working on his third album.

Marvin is also a vocalist with award-winning swing orchestra, Down For The Count, Weston-super-Mare based Boulevard Swing Big Band and has also been seen with the mighty Vince Dunn Orchestra in and around London. His Quartet, consisting of some of the finest jazz musicians in the south of England can play hot and cool, bringing a great sound of music tinged with exuberance and excitement.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=odFN2V1OX0o

QUENTIN CRISP: NAKED HOPE

Written and performed by Mark Farrelly

Directed by Linda Marlowe

Mark Farrelly (Howerd’s End) brings his hugely-acclaimed solo play to The Acorn for an up-close encounter with the original Englishman in New York.

From a conventional upbringing to global notoriety via The Naked Civil Servant, Quentin Crisp was one of the most memorable figures of the twentieth century. Openly gay as early as the 1930s, Quentin spent decades being beaten up on London’s streets for refusing to be anything less than himself. His courage, and the philosophy that evolved from those experiences, inspire to the present day.

Naked Hope depicts Quentin at two phases of his extraordinary life: alone in his Chelsea flat in the 1960s, certain that life has passed him by, and thirty years later, performing An Evening with Quentin Crisp in New York. Packed with witty gems on everything from cleaning (“Don’t bother – after the first four years the dust won’t get any worse”) to marriage (“Is there life after marriage? The answer is no”), Naked Hope is a glorious, uplifting celebration of the urgent necessity to be your true self.

Running time: 90 mins including interval

★★★★★ “A stunning piece of theatre, masterfully told” Broadway Baby

★★★★★ “An acting masterclass” Sardines Magazine

★★★★★ “A truly life-affirming play and an absolute triumph” All That Dazzles

★★★★ “An uncanny feat of resurrection. Farrelly’s mastery of his audience is total” Time Out

★★★★ “Brilliant” The Stage

★★★★ “A sensational performance” Theatrescene.net (Off-Broadway)

★★★★ “A riveting and quite hysterically funny show” British Theatre Guide

★★★★ “Reveals both the frailty and fearlessness of a trendsetter” Metro

★★★★ “Highly recommended” North West End

★★★★ “Spectacularly metamorphic” The Reviews Hub

★★★★ “A terrific central performance…life-enhancing theatre” My Theatre Mates

★★★★ “A brave celebration of a truly witty outsider” London Theatre 1

A Beautiful Noise Show the definitive Neil Diamond tribute.

From London’s West End, this internationally acclaimed production celebrates the music of Neil Diamond.

This is the only show starring the extraordinary FISHER STEVENS, undeniably one of the BEST Neil Diamond impersonators you will ever see! Together with the fantas-tic cast of professional musicians and singers who performed at the Lyric theatre in Londons’ Shaftesbury Avenue.

★★★★★ “The legendary music of Neil Diamond is brought to life for a night you won’t forget, and as tributes to the greats go, you’d struggle to get more bang for your buck in the West End. Broadway World Review

★★★★★ Designed to be a crowdpleaser, you will leave the theatre feeling uplifted and highly entertained by it all. Love London Love Culture

Traditional Celtic music at its best! With fire-driven instrumentals, topical songs, haunting ballads and a good dose of humour, the variety and range of the material the Tannies perform is matched only by their enthusiasm and lively Celtic spirits. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this legendary band live, and remember – Celtic music + humour = fun!

Adam Beattie is a Scottish singer-songwriter and guitarist who has just released his fifth solo album to critical acclaim. Beattie is a ‘master of powerful narratives’ (★★★★★ RnR Magazine), writing original contemporary Scottish folk songs while also drawing rich influences from other roots genres. Adam uses a beautiful, intricate, finger-picked guitar and a distinctive, warm, wise voice steeped in smoke and honey to create ‘uplifting reveries of love’ (MOJO Magazine) and ‘Stirring Folk Balladry’ (Line Of Best Fit).

For this concert, Adam will be joined by acclaimed drummer Chris Jones (Kathryn Williams, Natalie Imbruglia). On double bass and backing vocals is Myra Brownbridge, a rising star on the London jazz scene who studied at Trinity and recently debuted her own quartet at Pizza Express Holborn. Joe Trudgeon will be on electric guitar, a much-celebrated multi-instrumentalist of the Bristol old-time swing and folk scene.

Roving Crows strive to push the boundaries of Celtic Folk, playing with great passion, energy and soul. Led by Paul O’Neill and Caitlin Barrett they are vital and vibrant. A must see live act showcasing a full throttle mix of fiery, Celtic-inspired fiddle, conscious, intelligent lyrics, backed by solid, thumping rhythms and driving bass. Their live show is guaranteed to get any crowd dancing.

Since their launch in 2009 Roving Crows have made their mark on the folk and roots scene in the UK as well as International tours of Australia, Ireland, France and Portugal, where the band were welcomed to the renowned Costa Del Folk festival. Roving Crows were awarded International Artist of the Year at the Australian Celtic Music Awards in 2017.

Formed by Paul and Caitlin, the band have created; ‘Bacchanalia’ 2012, ‘Deliberate Distractions’ 2013 and the latest ‘Bury Me Naked’ which was released in Spring 2017 and received some fantastic reviews. The former two releases were produced by Nick Brine (Ash, Oasis, Bruce Springsteen, Seasick Steve) at Rockfield Studios and ‘Bury Me Naked’ was handled by their Bass player at the time, Loz Shaw. In July 2020 the band released their remotely recorded ‘Lockdown’ EP.

They have wowed festival audiences from Cambridge and Trowbridge to Cheltenham Jazz Festival. Band of the Year in the 2014 FATEA Music Awards and Best Live Act in the Spiral Awards in the same year. Previous accolades include the Irish Music Association Awards for Top Celtic Rock Band and Top Fiddle Player. The band had great tours of Brittany and Australia just prior to the Pandemic.

During the COVID-19 crisis Paul and Caitlin decided to return with their family to his Irish homeland and they now reside on the beautiful West Coast.

Roving Crows released their 4^th album ‘Awaken’ in Spring 2022 and toured the UK extensively to ecstatic crowds throughout March and April to promote this.

‘An adventurous and inspired heady cocktail of Celtic and World music with a social conscience and a beating heart.’

Mike Davies, Folking.com

‘they’re a band capable of delivering a uniquely inspiring style.’

– Duncan Haskell, Songwritng Magazine

‘…epic treatment of Ride On…’They will do well on the festival circuit.’

– Robin Denselow, The Guardian

www.rovingcrows.com

www.facebook.com/rovingcrows

Twitter: @RovingCrows

COUNTRY SUPERSTARS

Dolly Parton and Friends Tribute Show

The World’s Biggest Country Music Tribute Touring Show is coming! “As Seen in London’s West End and featured on TV around the World”

Endorsed by Dolly Parton on the BBC One Show “I wish them the best and I appreciate them doing Dolly and Kenny so well for so long”, described by Kenny Rogers as “Europe’s leading Dolly and Kenny” – this truly unique show is hosted by the star of “The Dolly Parton Experience”. . .Most recently seen on ITV’s Game of Talents.

Tv and West End Dolly star Sarah Jayne has been performing as Dolly Parton for more than 27 years and is Europe’s leading tribute to the Queen of Country. Joined by award-winning vocal impersonator Andy Crust, prepare to be taken on a journey back through time to meet the most influential icons to have shaped country music history.

The show features Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, Billie Jo Spears, Kenny Rogers, Willie Nelson, Tammy Wynette, Garth Brooks, John Denver, Glen Campbell and now Canadian country superstar Shania Twain and includes The Country Superstars Band.

Each artist not only looks and sounds like the country star they portray, these professional performers transform themselves through hours of practice at their craft. Every detail is taken into consideration from script, choice of songs, hair, make-up, and mannerisms, as well as professional costumes and props.

Prepare for an evening of million-selling hits drawn from a repertoire that includes 9 to 5, The Gambler, Islands in the Stream, Annie’s Song, Stand by Your Man, Ring of Fire, Crazy, Always on my Mind, Blanket on the Ground, Jolene, Lucille, Here You Come Again, That Don’t Impress Me Much, I Walk the Line, Take Me Home Country Roads, Man! I Feel Like a Woman, Coward of the County, Standing Outside the Fire, The Dance and Rhinestone Cowboy.

Kenny Rogers himself named and stated on his website that Sarah Jayne and Andy Crust’s tribute to Kenny and Dolly is Europe’s leading tribute act. Country music will live on forever, a must see for any fans of country music!

It’s 1868. Morten is a discharged soldier scraping a living on his croft on the edge of Sweden’s ancient forests. His life is blighted by insomnia and filled with troubles made up largely in his own head.

Suddenly he begins to suffer nightmares. A friend tells him he’s plagued by a Mara – a possessed person who visits another in spirit form as they sleep. To free himself from a Mara, he must discover their identity. But who is it?

Funny, unsettling, beautiful and moving, this solo storytelling performance is

a whodunnit

a deep dive into the dreamscape of Swedish folklore

a delve into our oldest forests

a journey through our tortuous relationship with sleep

and an exploration of what it might mean to be really awake

You’ll be transported, entertained, immersed… and a walk in the woods might never feel the same again

REVIEWS OF DOMINIC’S PREVIOUS WORK

“What a treat” – The Times

“★★★★★From the moment he walked on to the bare stage to the final dimming of the lights 90 minutes later, he held his audience in a fierce grip… With great style, using the vernacular of today, he blended elements from stories in the Ulster Cycle into a gripping, satisfying whole. This was a rare event.”

The Cornishman, on Dominic’s performance at The Acorn in March 2015

“It shouldn’t be possible to conjure up such a rich, colourful and vibrant world in a plain, darkened room but he succeeded spectacularly.” Litfest

Dominic Kelly’s warm, witty and powerful storytelling style has captivated audiences from India to the Arctic Circle. In the UK he has performed at venues including the Barbican, National Theatre, British Museum, and The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival.

Resident in the Lake District, he lived in Sweden for 7 years. Married into a family from northern Sweden, he knows intimately its landscape, nature, culture and folklore; in MARA, he takes you on an unforgettable journey into this place, though experiences we can all relate to.

www.dominickelly.net