Kris Drever originally comes from Hrossey in the Orkney Islands. Over the years, he has taught himself to be a songwriter, guitarist and singer of note (and sometimes many notes). As well as creating award-winning original songs and instrumental pieces with the trio Lau, he has had a fruitful solo career exploring the cracks between classic and modern songwriting and the traditional music that he comes from. Drever’s sound is rooted in the earthy and hypnotic rhythms of much older music, but there’s a sophistication to both the lyricism and the instrumentalism which places him skilfully in the present. He has an extensive collection of BBC R2 Folk awards, plus a fistful of Scottish NaTrads awards for everything from best album, best singer and best live act to best original song. He has worked with many excellent musicians, including Jack Bruce, Eddi Reader, Mark Knopfler, Jerry Douglas and Roddy Woomble, and is a member of the beautiful multi-media project Spell Songs: The Lost Words. Currently, Kris is preparing for a series of Lau events around the UK, writing music for a new solo album and learning some old tunes for reasons he can’t quite explain. We are offering a free carer/companion ticket for any disabled or wheelchair-user audience members throughout our shows this season. Please note that it is helpful if this is booked in advance via the WeGotTickets website, so that we can ensure that there is adequate accessible seating reserved on the day/night of the event. Wheelchair access, or entry for people with a disability is available from the side entrance, by the Phoenix Café. Tickets for our Spring/Summer 2025 events can also be purchased in person at the Phoenix Shop, Findhorn. These will be available for purchase from February 2025. Please note that this is a seated event.

Three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke is joined by Ncuti Gatwa ( Doctor Who; Sex Education ) in this joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy. While assuming the role of a dutiful guardian in the country, Jack lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy adopts a similar facade. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully navigate. Max Webster ( Life of Pi ) directs this hilarious story of identity, impersonation and romance, filmed live from the National Theatre in London.

Seven-time BAFTA Award-winner Steve Coogan (Alan Partridge, The Trip) plays four roles in the world premiere stage adaptation of Stanley Kubrick’s comedy masterpiece Dr. Strangelove.

 When a rogue U.S General triggers a nuclear attack, a surreal race takes place, seeing the Government and one eccentric scientist scramble to avert global destruction. This explosively funny satire is led by a world-renowned creative team including Emmy Award-winner Armando Iannucci (The Thick of It, Veep) and Olivier Award-winner Sean Foley (The Upstart Crow, The Play What I Wrote).

The Writers Caf offers a friendly, supportive environment to meet monthly for writing-focussed conversation and discussion of work-in-progress. It is open to anyone interested in writing, whatever your in/experience and whether or not you choose to share your own writing. Hot and cold drinks can be purchased from the CatStrand caf during Caf sessions. Hosted by Jane McBeth on behalf of Ken Words please contact her at [email protected] if you have any queries.

For over 30 years Boo Hewerdine has been considered one of the UK’s finest singer-songwriters. As lead singer of seminal band, The Bible, through his subsequent solo work and his long-time collaboration with the incredible Eddi Reader he has become something of a national treasure. Since Swimming in Mercury was released in 2017, Boo has been writing, recording and touring with Eddi Reader, Chris Difford, Kris Drever and Emily Barker among others. He is in demand as a writer, producer and performer. This Autumn he will be undertaking an extensive tour, singing songs from his new album ‘Before’ and his extensive back catalogue. A naturally gifted raconteur his gigs are always a total joy.

A fun and relaxed monthly dance workshop for all ages 8 years plus. All ages from 8 years - 16 years welcome! Complete beginners to more experience dancers welcome! Book your first session below.

Scotland's best and much-loved stand-up comedian, Fred MacAulay is getting ready to hit the road again with a 2025 tour around Scotland. Now in the fourth decade of his comedy career, Fred MacAulay still loves being on stage doing what he does best.......quite simply it's STAND-UP ! "At my age it's sometimes an achievement to be actually standING up" jokes Fred, but his appetite for performing is as strong as it was all those years ago when he took a massive side-ways step from a career as an accountant and company secretary into the world of entertainment. A career which has taken him all over the world (apart from South America) (and some other continents) where he has worked in television and radio. But it's always been and always will be as a stand-up that Fred wants to be remembered. It's because of Stand-Up that I've been asked to do all the 'celebrity' things that I've done. (See below). He might talk about some of them, but he's more likely to talk about what is current - having been a guest on the famous Radio 4 News Quiz show for almost 18 years he has some previous in this respect. And as a family man he'll no doubt be talking about the latest stage of that aspect of life.....Grandchildren. " I can remember the joy of having our kids just after I'd embarked on my career in comedy......what a great source of material they were! I mean, that wasn't the main reason for having kids ...... but I hope the same applies to the grandkids!"

Join Cat on a fun creative adventure to magical lands exploring through role play, drama, movement and storytelling. From adventures in the jungles, to chasing dragons and flying with fairies, the weekly sessions will promote imagination and speaking skills in a fun way, helping to bring out the inner performer within your child whilst promoting confidence and making new friends! Sessions will run without parents. Classes will only run with a minimum of 5 children. To book register email [email protected] or book via www.csyoungcreatives.com Recommended age is 6yrs+ but everyone is welcome!

Born in Dungiven in 1975, surrounded and infused with the rich cultural heritage of her native County Derry, Cara has risen to become one of the finest exponents of traditional Irish song anywhere in the world. Together with her husband and musical partner, Sam Lakeman, she has succesfully steered an eclectic musical path defying the typical pigeonholes that hinder most artists in her genre. Celebrated for entwining traditional and contemporary elements she has earned both commercial success and astonishing critical acclaim. Whether she's singing her native traditional songs of lost love and emigration, or original compositions, you will be hard pressed to find a more emotive and captivating performer. Cara Dillon is at the very top of her field and one has the feeling she'll remain there for a very long time.

We're looking for enthusiastic young volunteers 12 years plus to join us as Art Ambassadors! You'll be working alongside Cat and Rose Benson to design, plan, and deliver exciting events for children and young people in our area. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a difference and gain valuable experience. Come along to our relaxed meeting, meet new friends, and find out how you can get involved.

We're looking for enthusiastic young volunteers 12 years plus to join us as Art Ambassadors! You'll be working alongside Cat and Rose Benson to design, plan, and deliver exciting events for children and young people in our area. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a difference and gain valuable experience. Come along to our relaxed meeting, meet new friends, and find out how you can get involved.

An Tobar and Mull Theatre presents the world premiere of Night Waking by Shireen Mula, adapted from the novel by Sarah Moss Directed by Rebecca Atkinson-Lord A remote Scottish island. A sleep-deprived mother. A grave you were never meant to find. Anna Bennett should be writing a book. Instead, shes counting the minutes of lost sleep, peeling a toddler off her leg, and Googling Victorian infanticide at 3 a.m. Her ornithologist husband is out studying puffins, oblivious. Her sons are running feral. And when she and her eldest uncover something in the gardensomething small, something wrapped in woolit becomes clear that history isnt just a thing she studies. Its here. Underfoot. And it wont rest quietly. Night Waking is a sharp, strange, and darkly funny exploration of motherhood, colonialism, and the ghosts we inherit. As Anna ricochets between present-day exhaustion, historical letters, and a past that wont stay buried, she is forced to confront what it means to nurture, to protect, and to fail. Adapted from Sarah Mosss novel by Shireen Mula, this one-woman play is a feat of acting virtuositya fragmented, fevered journey through sleepless nights, long-lost voices, and the things we dont say. For anyone who has ever craved silence but feared what might fill it.

Combining spoken word, lyrical storytelling and a pulsating electronic live score, this is the thrilling story of ran and his journey to rescue his best friend from the Underworld. Should he arrive there, Hades might grant him the chance to lead his friend homebut at what cost? This award-winning visceral piece of contemporary theatre is a collaboration between Wonder Fools, a blazing powerhouse of invention and activity (Scotsman) and the acclaimed hip-hop artist Owen Sutcliffe with music by VanIves, creating an urgent and entertaining modern retelling of the classic Greek myth Orpheus. Originally staged in Edinburgh Fringe 2024 for a sold-out run in partnership with Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Pleasance Theatre A complete immersive experience - 5 Sinners Review An electric one-man tour de force - 5 The Arts Dispatch Passionate ferocity - 4 The Scotsman An electrifying, sound-led ride down into the underworld - 4 Theatre Weekly A sincere tale told with passion and impressive athleticism. - 4 Edinburgh Fest Mag An electric and electrifying piece of theatre - 4 The Wee Review An epic, hip-hop-influenced poem - 4 The QR A provocative, immersive creation - 4 The Arts Desk "Oran by Wonder Fools is full-throttle beast of a show. I hope somebody is buying the bold Robbie Gordon a drink after as Ive no idea how hes hitting that energy every day. Great to see new Scottish work with such swagger from one of our most impressive companies. - Kieran Hurley Running time: 60 mins Suitable: 14+ Warnings: flashing lights and strong language Staged in partnership with Arts D&G

HotTrod Theatre Companycombines the talents of John Nichol (actor/writer/storyteller) and Iain Fraser (fiddler/composer) to bring to life tales of history, mystery, and heroism. Johns unique delivery and many and varied characterisations, and Iains ingenious musical interpretations, lend atmosphere, depth and authenticity to the performance. Al Pattullo completes the dramatic effect with his sensitive and imaginative lighting design. El Duglasis a colourful and forthright account of the life of Sir James Douglas, often known as The Black Douglas. Music plays an integral part in the tale which is occasionally delivered in rhyme, in the style of the old Border ballads. The storyteller is none other than Robert the Bruce and the play is set in the Spanish town of Teba where Sir James Douglas was killed in battle. Why El Duglas? Bruces dying wish was that his friend, Sir James Douglas should carry his embalmed heart to Jerusalem, to be presented at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. On his way to the Holy Land, Douglas was, however, asked to assist King Alfonso XI of Castile in recapturing the Castle of the Stars near the Andalucian town of Teba, then held by the Saracens. Sadly, Douglas was killed during the Battle of Teba (1330) and Bruces heart never reached the Holy City. Every year, in Teba, an event (Douglas Days) is held in honour of the heroic deeds of the Good Sir James. Sir James Douglas was Bruces ablest lieutenant and the most professional soldier of his day, whose menacing resourcefulness and outright genius undoubtedly led to victory in the first Scottish War of Independence. El Duglas premiered at last years Duns Playfest and toured extensively in the spring and autumn of 2024.

Stroanfreggan Community Archaeological Research Project (SCARP) Introduction to the excavation project Carsphairn Heritage Initiative, in conjunction with the Glenkens Story are delighted to announce the launch of a new project investigating the ancient sites of Stroanfreggan fort and Smittons Bridge kerbed cairn! We are excavating the sites in September and October 2025 with AOC Archaeology and would like to invite you to join us and help on the excavation. Come along to the CatStrand to hear from Cathy MacIver, AOC Archaeology about the fort the excavation project and how you can join in on the dig! You can find out more about the dig, and sign uphere. [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/stroanfreggan-archaeological-research-project-volunteering-tickets-1388351770519?aff=oddtdtcreator] This project has been made possible due to the financial support from Historic Environment Scotland and Carsphairn Renewable Energy Fund Ltd.

Folk Telling John Hegley returns to the Glenkens with a preview of his show destined for the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe: a series of tales toldbyandforfamily members, figures from history and figments of the imagining, of the former BBC online poet, Keats House Poet in residence, and Edinburgh Comedy award nominee. Tales bothdeep and daft, told in verse both sung and spoken - and, in this extended version, with additional cardboard animals with moving parts. 'awesomely mundane'The Independent 'Just because he is one of the funniest men alive, do not underestimate his dedicated gentleness' Adrian Mitchell, in the New Statesman. Devised for adults, but not unsuitable for the odd nine-year-old. Image Credit- Suzi Corker

Exuberant! The Guardian Dazzling! RFWM Festival Transcends Boundaries BBC Over 950 concerts all around the world. Coming from Beskidy, Poland. The band was born in the heart of the mountains, following an unexpected encounter between local root music players and contemporary artists from Silesia. Curiosity sparked wild improvisation sessions, and their diverse backgrounds forged a unique soundone that blends the haunting beauty of melodies with raw, frenetic energy. You might hear echoes of rock, punk, jazz, and film music, layered with ambient textures but the fact that its all played on string instruments makes it truly extraordinary. VOOSIs greatest strength lies in the way they channel emotionsfrom joy to heartbreak, excitement to calm, rage to euphoriataking the audience on a liberating and deeply satisfying musical journey. VOOSI - Tsavkisi - official video [https://youtu.be/FDMpqglpyFg?si=pW7t3NHUFzMGtaLB] " VOLOSI is one of the most exciting, dynamic new bands on the contemporary scene." Gerald Seligman, former General Director of WOMEX "A spectacular live band, VOLOSI should be on every festival's wish list." Simon Broughton, Songlines "To listen to and to watch VOLOSI is like being in a spell. They are simply dazzling. " Jun-lin Yeoh, Artistic Director of Rainforest World Music Festival VOLOSI are a revelation their compelling performance and energy transcends musical and geographical boundaries to create a completely irresistible combination. I defy you not to love them! Mary Ann Kennedy, BBC "Exuberant, original band." Robin Denselow, The Guardian "Inbred, hidden energy that does not wish to manifest itself in dancing madness, and which has power more magnificent than atomic explosion."

Tickbox is a rich and glowing contribution to our deeper knowledge of ourselves; and of all the astonishingly vivid strands. Joyce McMillan, Scotsman ★★★★ A semi autobiographical one woman play based on Lubna's parents journey from a middle class life in Pakistan to Govan in Glasgow when her father was given a scholarship to do a Phd at Strathclyde university. Through eyes of different characters all played by Lubna you get a feel of what life was like for immigrants and the impact that stress and discrimination had on their health and wellbeing. Its sad, funny and the story of life. Watch TickBox Promo [https://vimeo.com/622799811?share=copy] Watch STV-Pharmacist prescribes laughter as the best medicine at Fringe [https://youtu.be/WrgLzDPV5fA?si=W7NTZZizhfIH3z 3] Lubna Kerr is a Scottish Pakistani female actor, writer, creator and comedian. She writes plays about her life and that of her family. Everything she writes and performs come from lived experience and are based in truth. She will make you laugh, cry and reflect. Lubna has successfully toured Tickbox, and its follow up Chatterbox all over the UK including sell out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Work in progress presentation of 'Towa Mura', a new play by Tom Pow, directed by Makoto Nakashima, and performed by actors from the UK, and Bird Theatre, Shikano, Japan. Music written and performed by The Galloway Agreement. This new play has come out of a several year long collaboration with a rural based Japanese theatre company, Bird Theatre, who invited The Village and the Road production to perform at their international theatre festival in Tottori in Western Japan in 2023 and 2024. From this has grown a connection on the themes of rural depopulation, social cohesion and village life today, intertwined with newly written music and song. The company will have been workshopping ideas in New Galloway for 8 days and are planning to reconvene in 2026 to tour the show in Scotland and Japan. During this very special evening at CatStrand, the company will present excerpts from the new work. The evening will have a Japanese theme, and will also include contributions from our Japanese visitors and poet Tom Pow. Supported by Creative Scotland and the Japan Foundation

An unendingly lovely record - The Georgia Straight The art of subtlety at its best - The Spill MagazineThe gut-punch of an unexpectedly excellent album - Americana UK Pure vocals and poetic turns of phrase make this a winner - Billboard Canada Nearly alchemical blend of sounds - The Range Magazine Part of Land Notes- Glenkens' Festival of Land In March 2020, Canadian folk & country artist Sarah Jane Scouten was living in rural Scotland. With tours cancelled, days stretched endlessly, punctuated only by the steady unfolding of Scottish springtime, leaf by leaf, petal by petal. Growing up on the west coast of Canada, to her the flora of Dumfries and Galloway was a pageant of scent and colour, altogether new but still strangely familiar. This is where Sarah Jane was initiated into herbal medicine hawthorn, valerian, yarrow. The plants subtle power drew her onto an unexpected path. In May 2020 she applied to a professional programme in herbal medicine in the UK and qualified in 2023. Training in an entirely different field gave her perspective and space from a career in music which demands everything. It renewed Sarah Janes love of live performance, which had been diminished by life on the road. Studying herbs, and just as importantly people, gave her music a deeper dimension and she began to write again. Now for the first time this decade, she is releasing new music. Sarah Jane Scouten has been nominated for 4 Canadian Folk Music Awards, a Western Canadian Music Award and an International Folk Music Award. She has performed at Vancouver Folk Music Festival, MerleFest, Calgary Folk Music Festival, Salmon Arm Roots and Blues, Dranouter Festival, Maverick Americana Music Festival and more. She has opened for Corb Lund, William Prince, Ron Sexsmith, The Sadies and shared the stage with Martha Wainwright, The Strumbellas, Allison Russell, Martin Carthy, Mandolin Orange (Watchhouse) and more. According to CBC qs Tom Power, "Stan Rogers was able to do it, Ron Hynes was able to do it, Kate McGarrigle was able to do it and Sarah Jane Scouten is able to do it."

Following the release of their debut album When the Day Is On the Turn in 2014, Dallahan toured extensively in Europe and North America, establishing themselves at such prestigious international events as Milwaukee Irish Fest, Celtic Connections, Tonder Festival and countless others. In its first year, the band was awarded the Emerging Excellence Award and their debut album was shortlisted for Album of the Year at the Scots Trad Awards. 2016 saw the release of their second album Matter of Time , which they performed globally 103 times that year, including travelling to Kathmandu, Nepal on behalf of the British Council. The band was again shortlisted for 'Album of the Year' and they won 'Instrumental Cut of The Year' at the LiveIreland Awards (USA). In 2019, they released their third album Smallworld to critical acclaim and were shortlisted in the German Music Critics Choice Awards. To date, they have brought their live show to 20 countries, earned three nominations for Folk Band of The Year in 2016, 2019 and 2022 and enjoyed collaborations such as with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, songwriting legend Dougie MacLean and Nepal's folk exponents Kutumba. Approaching a decade together as a band, Dallahan have become a veteran touring outfit and with each album they continue to evolve their sound - which they call their own brand of World-Folk - as is evident on their fourth studio album, Speak of the Devil released in 2023.

Hercules The Bear is inspired by the incredible true story of a 10-foot grizzly bear raised in Scotland by human parents. Hercules eats cooked meals at the dinner table, swims in the swimming pool and even tours in a wrestling show! But one day, while filming an advert on the islands of Uist, Hercules swims out to sea and disappears. The army is called, locals are told to stay indoors and experts say itis only a matter of time before this starving grizzly bear will attack. Everyone thinks Hercules has returned to his wild side, but can he prove them wrong? Hercules' life story is unbelievable, but it really happened. Right here in Scotland. For audiences aged 6+ and their adults.

Annual Trip to the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh as part of the arts award week.

Glenkens Gig Forum is proud to present: SONDER is a vibrant collective of artists based in Ayrshire, featuring Jodie Rae, Alexandra Shrinivas, Eilidh Grant, Patricia Crozier, and Donald Jessop. The band embarked on their musical journey together in January 2024, each member bringing years of individual experience to the group. The name Sonder embodies the belief that everyone has a unique story, a theme that deeply influences their songwriting. Their music is characterised by haunting vocals and cinematic instrumentals, drawing inspiration from iconic artists such as Alanis Morissette, Fleetwood Mac, Massive Attack, and Fiona Apple, resulting in a sound that is both distinct and emotionally resonant.Though just entering the Scottish music scene, Sonder have spent the last year performing across the country, performing at events such as Knockengorroch, Solas, Fresh Ayr Folk Festival, Moniaive Folk Festival and YouthBeatz. THE HIGH PRIESTESS are an alternative rock band hailing from Dumfries, who craft a captivating blend of raw emotion, intricate melodies, and poignant lyrics. Their music delves into profound themes of life, loss, and death. Originally an acoustic duo, they have since evolved into a full band - enriching their sound and broadening their artistic horizons. The High Priestess have played all around Dumfries and Galloway playing various festivals, to inspire the crowd to get in their feelings with their grunge sound. This will be a standing gig with some loose seating available. The Glenkens Gig Forum is a new events programme from CatStrand by and for under 40s in and around the Glenkens.

The Galloway Agreement is a collaboration featuring four well known traditional musicians; Wendy Stewart (clarsach, vocals), Ruth Morris (alto and tenor nyckelharpa), Gavin Marwick (fiddle) and Stuart Macpherson (double bass). Music from Scotlands South West These world class musicians are all based in Dumfries and Galloway. Their quartet, with a quite different instrumental line-up and choice of material from a more usual string quartet, has a repertoire which is a mixture of original compositions and favourite tunes and songs from Scotland and other European traditions. They delight in composing for this lovely combination of sounds and, in this concert, will include a commissioned piece on the 200 year celebration of the Ken Bridge. The band have been working together for several years now on the award-winning theatre show The Village and The Road, with which they have visited Japan twice. All the musicians involved are very well travelled, and have prepared an eclectic concert programme for you. Dont miss it! Listen/ Watch [https://thegallowayagreement.com/listenwatch] Image (C) Andrew Wilson

Werner Kissling was an ethnographer and photographer who studied the Scottish crofters of Eriskay and South Uist, the farmers and fisherfolk of Dumfries and Galloway, the Mori of New Zealand, and the culture of North Yorkshire. Kissling is known for the short film Eriskay: A Poem of Remote Lives, which is based on his footage, shot in 1934, of crofting life on the island of Eriskay in the Western Isles. Kissling was born into an aristocratic, land-owning family but spent his multimillion-pound inheritance and died in a Dumfries care home. In his twenties, as a young German diplomat, he was rich, had social status and apparently had an assured career; he chose to pursue his interests in ethnography and photography. Michael Russellis a Scottish politician serving as Chairman of the Scottish Land Commission since 2024. He is the author of seven books including A Different Country on the life and photography of Kissling. Staged in partnership with Arts D&G Image (C) Dumfries Museum

More Than Us - are words and sounds that tell of my concern for and my awe and love of the natural environment. - are responses to the exploitation of those that have no voice. The words and the sounds comment on abuse of land and air and water and of the marginalisation of the more-than-human communities who live on the land, breath the air, and depend on that water. Texts include my own, those from friends and colleagues I invited to write for the program and poems and writing by, amongst others: B. Brecht, J.Clare, J. Hannukainen, H. MacDiarmint, E. Moerike and E.Morgan. Haikus, Nursery Rhyms and Worksongs have also inspired the program. Sounds I use are appropriate to the meaning of the words. There are very few traditional instruments to be heard in More Than Us. More often I use sounds inspired and generated by the subjects the poems such as twigs, acorns and pinecones. Helmut Lemke is an artist responding to social observations. Sound, the audible, the inaudible and the imaginable, is the basis of his work. He investigates sounds that are around us; some are obvious, some are familiar, some have to be found. He has worked internationally and researched and presented site-specific concerts, performances and installations all over the world both as a solo artist and as a collaborator with experts of many different disciplines. Helmut lives in Galloway, in the South-West of Scotland.

One of the virtuoso instrumentalists of the English music scene... sounds better than ever "★★★★ The Guardian One of Englands most revered folk performers, widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, Martin's interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling. His remarkable solo shows are intense, eclectic, spellbinding and deeply moving. Always prolific, and never one to rest long without a guitar in his hands and a song in his head, Martin Simpson continues to travel the length and breadth of the UK and beyond giving rapt audiences passion, sorrow, love, beauty, tragedy and majesty through his remarkable intimate solo performances. Martin has been nominated an astounding 32 times in the 18 years of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards - more than any other performer - and has won numerous awards. Martins latest solo album, Skydancers, was released on Topic Records in April 2024. The album is a twin release featuring a live CD recorded on recent gigs and a studio CD including some of Martin's absolutely favourite musicians. Last years album with Nashvilles Thomm Jutz, Nothing But Green Willow : The Songs Of Mary Sands And Jane Gentry, received superlative reviews from both sides of the Atlantic. Drizzling with Simpsons shining guitars The Guardian "A record of rare power and significance 9/10 Guitarist A virtuoso player without question, but above all Martin Simpson conveys his diverse treasure trove of material from the heart, performing with rare subtlety, intensity and honesty. A true master of his art. Praise for Skydancers: an excellent record from a master of his craft KLOF MAG acoustic finger-picking magic UNCUT Penguin Eggs-good. Seriously - ★★★★ MOJO "Its stunning and without doubt his finest work in almost half a century of being at the vanguard of british guitar players, songwriters, singers and true custodians of folk music RICHARD HAWLEY "I do believe this set could be equal to, maybe better than, anything hes ever done" - Ian Anderson, TRADFOLK

A singular and enchanting hour - The Fringe Review Sublime, assured and immersive compositions - SY Gigs Versatile and prolific Leeds-based pianist & composer Simeon Walker has quickly emerged as a leading light in the burgeoning modern classical scene. Alongside a busy performance and touring schedule across the UK and Europe, in recent years he has supported a variety of high-profile artists including Neil Cowley, Submotion Orchestra, Erland Cooper and LYR (Simon Armitages musical project) and performed notable live sets at Latitude, Timber Festival, the Edinburgh Fringe and SXSW London. His music is regularly broadcast on BBC Radio 3 and ClassicFM, and has received listening figures in excess of 50 million streams across platforms, whilst his piece Reverie notably features on the first official Piano Day compilation (2022) by the LEITER label, alongside modern classical luminaries Nils Frahm, Olafur Arnalds and Chilly Gonzales. An in-demand collaborator, Simeon has worked with numerous musicians, composers and performers across a wide range of genres and musical styles. With a keen interest in interdisciplinary work, he has received commissions to collaborate on projects involving fellow creatives such as artist Mary Griffiths, Portuguese choreographer Sara Afonso, writer Emma White, filmmakers Will Killen and Ben Cohen, plus organisations including BBC Radio 4 and University of Leeds. As a session musician, he regularly records for composers working in the film and television industries, and recently completed a range of compositional work for the popular estate agent, publisher and journal The Modern House. Whilst studying for a Masters in Composition, he studied under the tutelage of the recently-appointed Master of the Kings Music Errollyn Wallen. With a background in classical music alongside a keen interest in jazz, folk and ambient music, Simeons diverse and varied creative output coupled with his informal, invitational and warm-hearted approach to live performance reflects the extremes of human experience and emotion, aiming to bring people together around the joy of shared musical experiences. Encompassing moments of quiet, gentle solitude through to boisterous, flowing exuberance - this is music composed and performed from the heart; simultaneously capturing a sense of open, spacious landscapes and grandeur, paired with sincerity, intimacy and warmth. Listeners are invited to gather around the piano; to find beauty and meaning as much in the spaces between the notes as the notes themselves, as tender, expressive and heartfelt musical stories are woven engagingly together, delivered with a uniquely delicate touch and a self-deprecatory wry smile. Remarkable stage presence and command of the instrument - Modellbahn Music For those who arent generally fans of classical music, this new movement offers a modern take that reconnects us with the beauty of the piano and how composers like Simeon Walker can use it in different ways to convey what it is that makes us human - Louder Than War

Learn how to make needle felted necklaces and bracelets! No experience needed and all materials are provided.

In this fun and relaxed felt making workshop youll learn how to make needle felted broaches! No experience needed and all materials are provided!

Wee Mixtape: A Family Dance Party for Grown-Ups (and Their Kids) Calling all parents who miss their nights out but dont want to leave the kids behind Wee Mixtape is the ultimate family-friendly dance party where the soundtrack is all yours. Enjoy a party thats just as fun for you as it is for your kids. Wee Mixtape get ready to dance the day away! You can request your favourite tune to add to the party mix using the google form link.

The Solway Cellos are an ensemble of six cellistsAlex McQuiston, Lesley Adamson, Sheila Astle, Sarah Buchanan, Alexandra King, and Vivienne Truemanbased in Dumfries & Galloway and Cumbria. United by their love for music and the cello, they regularly perform with the Solway Sinfonia Orchestra and are dedicated to showcasing the instruments rich, sonorous sound.

Phil Bancrofts international jazz trio combining saxophone (Phil), guitar (Graeme Stephen) and tabla (Gyan Singh).

A powerful voice in UK Jazz, awarded Best Vocalist in the Scottish Jazz Awards, Marianne brings her star-studded band of top Scottish jazz players.

Matt Carmichaels powerfully emotive blend of jazz and folk music is a distinctive new voice in a crowded scene, BBC Music Magazine.

Oscar-nominated Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl, Saltburn) is Jessica in the much-anticipated next play from the team behind Prima Facie. Jessica Parks is a smart Crown Court Judge at the top of her career. Behind the robe, she is a karaoke fiend, a loving wife and a supportive parent. When an event threatens to throw her life completely off balance, can she hold her family upright? Writer Suzie Miller, director Justin Martin, and composer Self Esteem, reunite following their global phenomenon Prima Facie, with this searing examination of modern motherhood and masculinity.

SFX Workshop (12 - 18 years only) 13th August 1 - 3pm. 8 per person, free for those participating in the Arts Award Bronze week! Materials will be provided but please bring any old makeup brushes you have any.