Celebrating the arts in Derbyshire and the Peak District
artsbeatblog.com
FRE
E
December 2016 and January 2017
Stunning winter landscapes Five-page family Panto Guide
Festive gift ideas for art lovers Music, theatre, gallery, film and workshop listings
The Original Theatre Company
Tuesday 31 January - Saturday 4 February A riotously funny production about the recession and one middle-class family from London making the move to a small town in the North of England.
Box OďŹƒce 01332 593939 Book Online derbytheatre.co.uk
Derby Theatre is part of
RAYMOND GUBBAY presents
Russia’s acclaimed ballet company returns for the UK Tour 2017
Swan Lake The Nutcracker Performed by
The Russian State Ballet of Siberia Accompanied by
The Orchestra of the Russian State Ballet
5 & 6 January 7.30pm - 7 January 2.30pm & 7.30pm
BUXTON OPERA HOUSE BOX OFFICE 01298 72190
buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
SEATS AVAILABLE ONLINE raymondgubbay.co.uk
(24hrs/bkg fees apply)
Amanda Penman editor As you have cleverly picked up artsbeat magazine your festive shopping worries are over. It must be virtually impossible for you not to find that special gift at one of the many craft markets and fairs which are being held this month and are featured on many of our pages. Galleries and shops across the county are also exhibiting work Made In Derbyshire by the artists and makers in our community. All you have to do is make sure you give them your support by shopping locally – in return you will find a unique present to be treasured. Don’t forget that this is a combined edition covering December and January so your favourite magazine won’t be out again until February 1. I will be back with renewed vigour and lots of new ideas ready to face the challenges of 2017. In the meantime keep up with all the latest news from the Derbyshire arts scene by visiting artsbeatblog.com and following me on twitter and facebook. My New Year’s resolution is to make more use of instagram so watch this space. Finally, best wishes to you all for an absolutely fantastic Christmas and happy new year.
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email: editor@arts-beat.co.uk Telephone: 07872 066719 artsbeat2 @artsbeat
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website: artsbeatblog.com
Putting Derbyshire first: artsbeat is published by Penman Publishing, 19 Nottingham Road, Belper and is printed by Buxton Press
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contents performance
21-25 It’s time to book your seats for the Christmas panto – oh yes it is! 27 Young dancers limber up for Chatsworth Christmas fairytale event 43 Jazz musician Wendy Kirkland asks for help to fund debut album
artists & exhibitions
9 Sarah Sharpe’s paintings are inspired by fantasy and imagination 15 Chesterfield Museum and Gallery to host exhibition of fine art drawings 34 Junction Arts to mark group’s 40th anniversary with archive project
film & photography
28 Interactive visual installation to be projected onto QUAD’s gallery walls 31 Landscape photographer Matt Oliver captures the great outdoors
literature
36 Meet this month’s artsbeat author – award-winning novelist Jo Bunt 38 Best-selling author Sebastian Faulks to open Derby Book Festival
have a go
12 Let The Smallprint Co. teach you how to print on an antique press 39-42 Learn a new skill with our ideas-packed workshops guide
regulars
15-19 News in Brief in arena 51-54 Arts reviews in attitude 55-61 What’s on listings in agenda
Our festive cover image is detail from Cold Feet by wildlife artist Richard Whittlestone who has a gallery at Pilsley. Go to richardwhittlestone.co.uk
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This Christmas at Family Festivities at Markeaton Park
Mrs Brown’s Boys’ Winnie McGoogan
TV, West End and Comedy star
EILISH O’CARROLL
RICHARD BLACKWOOD
Fairy Godmother
Tue 6 Dec - Tue 3 Jan Derby Arena
Buttons
Art Attack’s
LLOYD WARBEY Dandini
£13.25 - £30.25 FAMILY TICKETS AVAILABLE
Sat 3 - Sat 24 Dec Markeaton Park Every weekend in Dec Free entry Free Some activities arechargeable chargeable Some activities
derby.gov.uk/markeaton
Thu 1 Dec - Wed 4 Jan Market Place £6.50 - £8.50
Thu 8 - Wed 28 Dec Guildhall Theatre
£11 - £13 FAMILY TICKETS AVAILABLE
in asssociation with
Ethereal beauty Sarah Sharpe invites artsbeat’s Amanda Penman into her dramatic home studio
M
oving shadows are cast on the walls by the low winter sun glinting through the window, which together with the watchful gaze from Sarah Sharpe’s paintings and prints creates an almost dreamlike atmosphere in her home. The artist is busy fetching hot drinks which allows me a quiet moment to enjoy the contemplative work all around. Her studio, which is in a conservatory to the side of the rambling Victorian house, has a Miss Havisham quality about it, with ruched net curtains draped dramatically across the room and armfuls of artists’ materials everywhere. When Sarah returns with the coffee she tells me with a grin that normally the studio is not as neat as this as she has tidied up especially for me. “I am quite a messy artist and tend to spread myself all over the house but I do try to work mostly in here,” she said, pointing out that the family haven’t changed the room since they moved into the Sheffield house 16 years ago. “I do sometimes consider what
it would be like if we had new windows and took down those curtains but actually I quite like it as it is,” she added. Sarah, a member of the Peak District Artisans, was born and brought up in Sheffield and says she has always been a maker of things She remembers as a child going to an art club in Graves Gallery, but she didn’t study art seriously until she was in her late 30s having started work as Sarah Sharpe a nurse and later a counsellor
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DERWENT GALLERY FINE ART LANDSCAPE PAINTINGS
Christmas Exhibition White Peak Dark Peak On Top of Kinder by Gareth Buxton
on until January 8th
Stanage Edge by Kristan Baggaley Open Wednesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday and Bank Holidays 11am-4pm
MAIN ROAD, GRINDLEFORD, S32 2JN
www.derwentgallery.com
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Her distinctive
award-winning work is created from imagination while bringing up her family of three children. It was while she was a counsellor that Sarah realised what she really wanted was to be an artist. In part her decision was brought about by her need to work from home so she could care for her middle child, 21-year-old Edward, who suffered a brain injury as a baby. “He will always need to be cared for and it has been a huge personal challenge for me, but one which has helped me choose a way of life I might not otherwise have had and I feel very blessed about that. “I was always painting and sewing but I thought being an artist was too much of a nice thing to actually do – much too indulgent. Now I am, and it is just a different world.” Sarah’s distinctive, awardwinning work is created from her imagination and is inspired by people and nature, but mostly by women. Much of her work features mothers and their children or characters from fairy tales and books such as Jane Eyre and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. “I try to capture their personal stories. I love to imagine what a character may have felt or looked like – I really do like to get into their minds as the spiritual side of things has always interested me. “The gaze of my subjects is always a significant part of my work as their eyes somehow tell the story. “To be honest I find inspiration
Clockwise from above: The Family, Mother and Child and Orphan Child Jane Eyre. Previous page: Seed
all around me in a poem, a snatched conversation or something unexpected, such as the time an owl fell down my chimney. It took me by surprise and we spent several minutes looking at each other. He will end up in a painting at some stage.” The artist has even painted a charming, peaceful picture of a mouse she found dead on the floor of her studio. For the past year Sarah has teamed up with an artist friend Kay Aitch working on a project called Analysis of the Woods. One day each week the pair immerse themselves in Eccleshall Woods in the city and the resulting work will be
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exhibited at the Great Sheffield Art Show. “Creating art is normally a personal, solitary experience and I have really enjoyed working on this project with Kay, it has been an absorbing experience,” she said. Sarah’s work can be seen at the Sir Richard Morris Lounge in Derby’s Cathedral Centre until the end of January and at the Peak District Artisans’ exhibition at Chatsworth from January 6. She has work in the Small Print International touring exhibition which will be at Gallerytop in Rowsley from January 7-February 12. n For more details go to sarahsharpe-art.co.uk
ST JOHN STREET GALLERY Contemporary Fine Art
Small yet
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f you are after festive cards, made in Derbyshire and in aid of a tremendous cause then look no further and get yourself to a newlyopened shop and gallery in Derby.
christmas exhibition
Wendy Darker Preview: December 2, 5pm-8pm
New originals and old favourites from this popular wildlife artist y paintings y prints y glass y sculpture y ceramics
50 St John Street, Ashbourne, DE6 1GH 01335 347425 Monday to Saturday 9.30am-5pm enquiries@stjohngalleryandcafĂŠ.co.uk www.stjohngalleryandcafĂŠ.co.uk
Sponsors of the Ashbourne Festival Art Prizes
The Christmas card on the right has been designed by The Smallprint Company and the print will be used to create artisan charity Christmas cards in aid of Treetops Hospice. Chris and Hannah Barker, the couple who created the letterpress printing business, have pledged to donate 20p to the charity from every one of the cards sold. The couple, who have a mutual love of typography, design and traditional letterpress print, met at university while studying fine art and printmaking in the 1990s. They always had an ambition to run their own print studio but first spent several years in the print and publishing industry honing their skills before taking the plunge and
perfectly formed
Hannah and Chris Barker in their studio, below: type spells out their new address and left: one of the antique presses
setting up on their own four years ago. They first had a studio at Banks Mill, in Derby and now they have their own independent studio in Friary Street. The move has provided them with enough space not only to display their own products but also to run workshops, exhibit work by other printmakers and a space for other sessions such as life drawing classes. The studio is an Aladdin’s cave of antique presses which they have lovingly restored and original type in a huge variety of fonts which they hunt out at auctions and on eBay. “I consider that we are the custodians of the presses and type for future generations. It is important that we don’t let the skills we have die out. “One of the presses is 130 years old and I would like to think that in another 30 years someone else will be using it. We are just looking after
the equipment for now and passing on our skills to others in our workshops,” said Chris passionately. While he takes care of the printing, Hannah keeps the business running smoothly and she jokingly says it is her job to keep an eye on what letterpress type Chris is buying. “He just can’t resist it if he sees it,” she says. The couple have built their business slowly and carefully, hitting personal targets along the way, and they are now pushing to get themselves better known in the region. They create all kinds of bespoke wedding and business stationery and are particularly
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focusing on corporate events for which they can design everything from menus and place settings to cloakroom tags. “We worked hard in the industry for many years to learn as much as could and now we are enjoying working for ourselves,” said Chris. “It is great that if I have an new idea for a design I can just get straight on and do it that day without having to hold a committee meeting. We are looking forward to moving the business on a step in the new year.” n The Smallprint Company cards and designs are on sale at various other galleries in the region including Design @ 44 in Sadler Gate, Derby, The Two Birds Gallery at Castle Donington and Whynot Gallery in Burton upon Trent. Go to smallprintcompany.co.uk to find out more about their workshops and courses.
Church Farm Art Gallery
THE OLD STATION GALLERY
CHURCH STREET, BASLOW, NR BAKEWELL
THE OLD STATION GALLERY
A tiny gallery packed with work featuring flora, fauna, landscapes and seascapes
alison Tyldesley
WINTER SHOW
/ UNTIL 4TH JANUARY ARTISTS: ANN BATES, RAcHEL cARTER, ROBERT cHApmaN, SARaH FIANDER, STEvE GRESHam, TONY HALL, mIcHELLE KEEGAN, KERRI pRATT & ALISON TYLDESLEY
We also offer a framing service with a wide choice of mounts and mouldings
OpEN: SAT/SUN/WEDS 11Am-4pm & DEc 2ND, 9TH & 16TH, 6pm-9pm
OPEN THURSDAY-SATURDAY 10.30AM-5PM WHEN CLOSED RING THE BELL TEL: 01246 582334
Old Station Gallery, peak Shopping village, chatsworth Rd, Rowsley, Derbys DE4 2JE www.theoldstationgallery.wordpress.com
www.churchfarmgallery.co.uk
PEAK DISTRICT ARTISANS’
CHATSWORTH EXHIBITION
6th JANUARY17th MARCH 2017 10.30am to 3.30pm
Free Entry
The Stables, Chatsworth, in the Burlington Room.
(Usual car park charges apply)
www.peakdistrictartisans.co.uk
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arena
Look no further to find out what great entertainment is being lined-up for Christmas and the New Year Museum to host
exhibition by fine art society CHESTERFIELD Museum and Art Gallery is hosting Drawing Connections – a prestigious exhibition in January featuring contemporary work by members of the National Society of Graphic Fine Art and, from its own collection, drawings by Joseph Syddall RA. The museum houses a collection of drawings (see below) by Syddall who, in his day, was regarded as one of the finest draughtsmen in England. He is particularly known for his illustrations of the first publication in Graphic magazine of Hardy’s Tess of the D’Urbevilles. While he was alive Syddall never willingly parted with his work but following his death in 1942, he bequeathed his remaining collection to his long term friend Annea
Spong, who in turn donated it to Chesterfield. Founded in 1919, the Society of Graphic Fine Art promotes fine drawing skills in both traditional and contemporary media. Today there are more than 130 elected members of the SGFA across the UK. Sue Lewis Blake, is the only Derbyshire artist who is taking part in this exhibtion. Nine others have visited Chesterfield to see Syddall’s originals and to fill their own sketchbooks, connecting with aspects of his work but then developing individual, unique responses. They include Sue Andrew, from Macclesfield; Oliver Lovely, of Nottinghamshire; the society president Jackie Devereux, from Peterborough whose work is pictured right; and Les Williams, from London, whose work is at the top. The exhibition is open from January 21-March 31. There will be an official opening on January 20 from 5.30pm-7.30pm.
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arena City hosts poppies THE touring show of the iconic ceramic poppies from the Tower of London installation will be brought to Derby next year. The city council and partners will present Weeping Window by Derbyshire artist Paul Cummins and designer Tom Piper as part of 14-18 NOW’s UK-wide tour at The Silk Mill from June 9 to July 23. It is particularly fitting that it should come to the city – not only because Paul went to university there – but also because the city played a big part during the First World War. The Derby Silk Mill was divided into two businesses one grinding corn and the other making medical supplies, both integral to the British war effort and scarce by 1916. Derby as a whole played a vital part in production during the course of the First World War with RollsRoyce developing the Eagle Engine at the request of the government to power allied aircraft.
Headline act SEMINAL British rock act Skunk Anansie, and punk duo Slaves are to headline the main stage at the 2017 Bearded Theory Festival. Fronted by the legendary Skin, Skunk Anansie will be the the first female-fronted band to headline Bearded Theory’s Spring Gathering. The festival is once again taking place at Catton Hall in South Derbyshire over the late May Bank Holiday. Tickets are on sale now via www.seetickets.com, or by calling the box office on 0871 220 0260.
FOLLOWING a scintillating first half of funny poetry, music, songs and anecdotes, McMillan and Goss present a hilarious improvised musical based on local village legends, gossip and notorious village residents, as suggested by the audience. All is fair game as the community becomes the star of this made-up-on-the-spot musical skit. Ian McMillan is one of the UK’s best known contemporary poets. He hosts hit weekly show The Verb on BBC Radio 3, dedicated to investigating spoken words around the
Ruby returns
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Local gossip globe. He also maintains a breath-taking schedule of appearances in schools, prisons and arts festivals. Luke Goss is an accordionist and composer who performs and broadcasts with the Southern European folk group Szapora and with masterful theatrical storytellers The Devil’s Violin. The duo are performing at Spring Bank Arts Centre in New Mills on December 9 at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from 01663 308202, High Street Books New Mills and wegottickets.com THE much-loved comedian, actor and writer Ruby Wax is returning to Buxton with her show Frazzled – A Guide to Mindfulness in January. She had a sell-out tour last year and was first at Buxton Opera House last April. If you missed out on tickets then, this is your chance to see the highly-regarded show. Outrageously witty, smart and accessible, Ruby shows ordinary people how and why to change for good. The show can be seen on January 22 at 7.30pm.
arena What a prediction EXACTLY two years ago artsbeat predicted that canny art collectors would one day be snapping up the work of hyperrealist artist Darren Reid. He has come a long way since then and has recently been taken on by the prestigious Plus One Gallery in London where his paintings can command five-figure sums. “I can’t believe what has happened in these two years but I am really thrilled. I have that first article framed on my wall and still grin when I read it,” he said.
Pledge by Jim AWARD-WINNING photographer Villager Jim has pledged his support to the quest to promote the Peak District and Derbyshire to a global audience. Jim has agreed to become an ambassador for Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire, as part of the official tourist board’s bid to put the area on the map. “I feel very honoured that I
New gallery A YOUNG couple have just opened a new art gallery called River’s Edge at Bamford. Kirstie-Leigh Riley and Ivan Ashmore have set themselves up at the Hope Valley Garden Centre. Kirstie-Leigh gave up a job in IT as she wanted to run her own business and do something more creative. Ivan is an experienced picture framer and has an extensive knowledge of contemporary fine art
having worked for his parents at the Derwent Gallery in Grindleford. Kirstie-Leigh, who is herself an artist, has also gained some hands-on experience at the gallery since moving to Derbyshire to be with Ivan this year. The gallery, which has work by several artists including Pauline Rignall, Richard Clare, Kristan Baggaley, Duncan Friend and Janet Bassindale, will be open every day except Monday. Go to riversedgegallery. co.uk for more details.
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have been asked to become an ambassador, because it enables me to play an even more active part in letting as many people as possible know about this beautiful area where we are so privileged to live and work,” said Jim, who prefers to keep his true identity secret. Pictured, left, are his famous labrador Barnaby with the managing director of Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire Jo Dilley.
Vibrant Colour
The Marlow Gallery
Hazel Lale
W W W. T H EM A R LO W G A L L ER Y. C O. U K
Winter Exhibition A mixed show of contemporary paintings, ceramics, sculpture & glass 26th November – 20th December
Open House Saturday 3rd Dec & Saturday 17th Dec Midday – 4pm If you can’t make our Open House dates and would like to view the exhibition please contact Emily on 07980550812 or studio@themarlowgallery.co.uk THE CLOSE, CHURCH SQUARE, MELBOURNE, DERBYSHIRE DE73 8JH
3-24 DECEMBER 2016 THEY’RE ALL THE SAME SIZE BUT BEAUTIFULLY INDIVIDUAL BUY them straight off the wall for CHRISTMAS
Original Art this Christmas. With prices starting at £8 and a choice from literally hundreds of Paintings and Photographs this is an exhibition not to be missed.
Ingl e by Ga l l e r y 20th November - 4th December
PATCHINGS ART CENTRE NOTTINGHAMSHIRE . NG14 6NU 0115 9653479 - www.patchingsartcentre.co.uk
Preview 20th November noon-4pm
Ingleby, Derby DE73 7HW T: Gill Watson 01332 865995 E: gillwatson@ingleby-gallery.co.uk W: www.ingleby-gallery.co.uk Open Wednesday to Friday 10am - 4pm Saturday and Sunday noon - 5pm
7 January - 12 February 2017
EXHIBITION
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62nd Annual Exhibition of The North and East Midlands Photographic Federation
arena Flash fiction
MARDE Hen Productions are presenting their fourth play – Light One Up – in Belper this month. Taking you back to 2006 with the introduction of the ban on smoking in public places, this hilarious new play by Jane Wilton inadvertently throws together a group of desperate and disgruntled employees of a factory that puts the fish into fish fingers. Banished from their workplace, and huddled together under their dilapidated gazebo, these “pergola pariahs” chunter and mumble their way through their lunch break – putting
Spring drama
New comedy the world to rights while concealing their own secrets which the audience will become privy to when the characters each ‘light one up’ and convey their inner monologue. The audience alone may hear secret revelations, desires, dreams, and lies. The play will be on at the Strutts Centre from December 1-3 at 7.30pm. For tickets please visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/ mardehenproductions, or call either 07875 648562 or 07886 017913. DERBY Theatre will present, in co-production with Octagon Theatre Bolton, Willy Russell’s hugely popular comedy drama Educating Rita directed by Elizabeth Newman. It is an uplifting tale of selfdiscovery where we witness how the power of choice comes through education. The 1983 film version of this award-winning play starred Michael Caine and Julie Walters and won multiple major awards and was nominated for three Oscars. It will be on at the theatre from March 17-April 1.
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GET your pens and pencils sharpened and your creative juices flowing for the launch of the third Fifty Word Flash Fiction Writing Competition at Derby Book Festival. The theme for the 2017 competition will be announced on January 10 so check the website: www. derbybookfestival.co.uk and social media: Twitter @ derbybookfest and Facebook / derbybookfestival. The competition ends on February 10 and the five winning stories will be illustrated by a student from the University of Derby and printed onto bookmarks. These will be available at the programme launch on April 11 at a special Derby Reads event in QUAD.
Join carol singers
BUXTON Festival Fringe is once again inviting everyone to celebrate the opening of entries to the 2017 Fringe with a festive village carol sing-along. The Derbyshire Village Carol event at the Green Man Gallery on December 3 will begin with at 2pm with a two-hour workshop led by Kaleidoscope Choir’s Carol Bowns in which you can learn the traditional Derbyshire village tunes. The workshop will be followed by a party and sing-along from 6.30pm. The whole event is free and everyone is welcome. The event marks the opening of entries for the Fringe for 2017 on December 1. Following tweaks to the online process, it is easier than ever to enter. More information is available at buxtonfringe. org.uk
Silver Tree Gallery paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles and interior objet d’art – we also buy art Currently exhibiting:
Peter Stanaway, David Barnes, Richard Clare, Rosa Sepple VPRI, Jiri Borsky, Paul Robinson, John Lines RMSA, Annabel Thornton SWA, John Thompson (1924-2011), Alison Tyldesley and textile artist Jo Hill Carriage House, Mill Lane, Cromford, Derbyshire, DE43RQ Telephone: 01629 822464 Mobile: 07789524982
www.silvertreegallery.co.uk
John Connolly Over 300 paintings to choose from in massive studio sale with up to 75% off original prices
Affordable original artwork starting from as little as £20 – most are framed and ready to hang
Open Studio and Winter Sale December 10th- January 30th
Call or text 07967-316622 to make an appointment at other times or email: john@connollyart.com
www.connollyart.com
Ormscliffe Gallery and Studio 16 Langwith Road, Bolsover S44 6HQ 20
family shows
Pantomimes and Christmas entertainment are all part of the traditional holiday fun – here’s artsbeat’s guide to what’s on on Buxt a Oper e Hous
Last year’s Opera
House favourite returns as Dame
in Snow White
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his year is the 25th that writer and director Philip Dart and his company have produced the panto at Buxton Opera House. The anniversary year show is Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and Philip says it will be better than ever: “A real blockbuster of a family show, to celebrate the anniversary in style.” This year James Holmes is back by popular demand to play the role of the dame, and Lucy Dixon will make her debut as Snow White. TV actor James is best known for playing barman Clive in the BBC comedy Miranda. He has appeared in more than 40 television and theatre shows. Last year his Widow Twankey in Aladdin was acclaimed by press and public. This year James takes the helm as Dame Brenda Bakewell, who works as a long-suffering palace cook for the wicked Queen Belladonna. Lucy is well known for her many television roles including Hollyoaks and Waterloo Road. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs runs from Saturday December 10 to January 1. n For tickets go to buxtonoperahouse.org.uk or call the box office on 01298 72190 n See Claudia Leaf’s Q&A with James on page 22
family shows Q: Thinking back to last year, what were your expectations of playing Dame and did your views change at all once you’d done it? A: When I arrived in Buxton to rehearse Aladdin last year, I was quite nervous. I hadn’t done panto before and wasn’t sure what to expect. One of my main concerns was what to say at those times when the Dame is supposed to talk direct to the audience, unscripted. I’d done stand-up about ten years earlier, when I was just starting out as an actor, but that was so long ago I didn’t think I would remember anything useful. Fortunately, as soon as I got in front of an audience, it all came back: it was like putting on an old pair of shoes. I had expected the other cast members to be quite theatrical, but most of them were just normal lads and lasses – really nice, and with a passion for the traditions of musical theatre and pantomime. Q: This year you are playing Dame Brenda Bakewell in Snow White and there are, inevitably, some references to The Great British Bake Off in the script. What’s your take on recent Bake Off developments? A: I know Bake Off’s got millions of fans, but I’ve never actually watched the programme. Despite that, I felt quite sad for the BBC when I heard that the show was going to Channel 4. I’m glad that Mary Berry, Mel and Sue didn’t go with it: I think that was the right decision. I’m wearing a Mary Berryinspired costume this year, so I’d better watch the show in the interests of research!
James Holmes
talks to Claudia Leaf about his
Buxton role Q: Did you always want to become an actor? What was your first theatre job? A: When I was young I didn’t realise how easy it was to pay money and go to the theatre, in the same way you might go to the cinema. Mum and dad talked about seeing musicals when they were young, but we never went to the theatre as a family. I think I remember seeing a panto once, as a very young child, but after that my main experience of comedy performance was watching Laurel and Hardy films screened on a projector at my dad’s works’ Christmas party. I didn’t always want to be an actor, but knew I didn’t want a ‘normal’ job. Q: What are you looking forward to this year when you return to Buxton for Snow White? A: I’ve got the same digs as last time, really close to the theatre so all I have to do is cross the road. There are some good pubs and Indian restaurants in Buxton: there’s also a really great fish and chip shop. Q: What will you do on Christmas Day, when there are no performances? A: My brother might be over from Australia this year, so I’m hoping he’ll be able to stay in Buxton at Christmas. If not, I’ll be making my own dinner again. I did it last year and, against all expectations, I quite enjoyed cooking Christmas dinner for one.
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Abby Wain, pictured, was so enchanted by Lewis Carroll’s magical world as a child that her parents thought they should have named her Alice. Abby is still just as enthralled by the stories and so, for her, the fact that she is playing Alice at Derby Theatre this Christmas is simply perfect. “It’s Alice’s curiosity that I think appeals to me and her vivid imagination. As a child I was quite a perfectionist and always wanted everything to be just right. With Alice, I felt I didn’t have to be right all the time so that was quite an escape,” she said. “In my room I still have lots of Alice memorabilia dotted around, so you can see that being cast as Alice in Derby couldn’t be more perfect. It’s almost like it’s fate – that it needed to happen.” Abby is from Jacksdale, and although she has appeared on many local stages, the main house at Derby isn’t among them. Abby says she is looking forward to the challenges performing Alice on the Derby stage may bring and spending Christmas closer to home for once.
family shows A new, magical
interpretation of the story of Alice
Derb Thea y tre
in Wonderland
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brand new adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s classic Alice In Wonderland is being staged at Derby Theatre. A talented team of actormusicians will create a sparkling Christmas tale for all the family with original live music, stunning costumes and fantastic set designs. Sarah Brigham, artistic director and director of the show, said: “Olivier award-winning writer Mike Kenny returns to Derby with this adaptation this Christmas after his smash-hit Cinderella last year. “Alice is full of magic and colourful, curious and wonderful characters, and our version will be a fun and stylish interpretation for all ages.” Playing the title character, Alice will be Abby Wain who originates from the region and over the years has performed in different venues across Derbyshire. Abby studied drama, theatre studies and performing arts at Bilborough College before training at East 15. Abby’s recent credits include Tale of Two Cities: Blood for Blood and Alice’s Adventures Underground. Joining Abby will be: Dominic
Rye as The Mad Hatter; Elizabeth Eves as the Duchess and Mother; Jack Quarton as the White Rabbit; Joanna Brown as the Queen of Hearts; Paula James as Tweedle Dum; Keshina Misha as the Dormouse and John Holt Roberts as Tweedle Dee. Helena Rimmer, who lives in the city, will be joining the cast under The Brian Weaver Fellowship. Helena graduated from the University of Derby with a first class Theatre Arts degree in 2013. During her time as a student, and since graduating, Helena has worked and performed with professional theatre companies including New Perspectives, Uncontained Arts, Hush Hush Theatre Company and Forward Theatre.
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n The show is on from December 2-January 7.
A special show for younger children
For younger audiences Derby Theatre is also presenting Jack – a magical seasonal tale of cheeky little Jack who climbs the beanstalk to find a very hungry giant. Not even his magic beans can help him escape but it’s OK, he has a plan… Original music, inventive puppetry and fun storytelling come together to tell this classic tale in a special adaptation for audiences aged three plus, their families and friends. The show is on at the Studio Theatre from December 6-31. For tickets for both shows go to derbytheatre.co.uk
family shows Big names from
TV comedy to grace Derby stage
Derb y Aren a
for Cinderella
T
he ragsto-riches tale for the whole family – Cinderella – is being staged at Derby Arena with a stellar cast including TV star, West End actor and comedian Richard Blackwood as Buttons The cast also includes the star of the massively popular Mrs Brown’s Boys, Eilish O’Carroll as the Fairy Godmother along with Art Attack presenter Lloyd Warbey as Dandini. The title role is being played by Cara Dudgeon and the outlandish Ugly Sisters will be played by comedy duo Dean Horner and Oliver Gray. The arena will be transformed into a magical theatre space, with special pyrotechnics and effects by the producers Paul Holman Associates and Derby Live. There will also be dazzling new sets The Community-based St Nicholas Players are presenting Red Riding Hood at St. Nicholas Church Hall, Allestree Lane, Allestree, Derby. The group promise fun for all the family, at shows on Fridays January 20, 27 and
and costumes, fabulous music and dance routines, hilarious comedy and audience participation. Cinderella will be on stage from December 6 until January 3. For ticket details go to derbylive.co.uk
Red Riding Hood February 3; and Saturdays January 21, 28, and February 4. Tickets are on sale now. Visit www.stnicholaspanto.org for tickets and more details about the group who have been performing for more
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h o l as S t Ni c c h Chu r e tre A ll e s than 50 years. Proceeds from the shows will go to charities which work with children and young people.
family shows
F
amilies can enjoy a cracking festive adventure at the Guildhall Theatre in Derby with Captain Sprout and the Christmas Pirates.
te grana Pome tre Thea
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magic carpet tale of adventure is set to touch down in Chesterfield with two million-selling pop stars leading the line-up of the family favourite pantomime Aladdin this Christmas at the Pomegranate Theatre. Atomic Kitten star and Celebrity Masterchef winner Liz McClarnon will take to the stage as Princess Jasmine, while 911 frontman and star of the stage, Lee Brennan, will take the title role as Aladdin. The panto will also feature Christopher Howard as the Emperor, James Dangerfield as Wishee Washee, Greg Ashton as Dame Gladys Twankey and Keith and Ben Simmons as the Chinese Policemen. Away from the music world, 2008 saw Liz back on our screens for an altogether different reason – swapping her microphone for an apron she embarked on a new challenge in Celebrity Masterchef and won the title. She has since hosted the National Lottery for BBC1,
Atomic Kitten
stars in panto as Princess Jasmine
in Chesterfield interviewed the hottest names in music for MTV and fronted her own series for BBC3. Liz took to the stage in the lead female role in The War of the Worlds opposite Jason Donovan and hit the road in the touring production of Legally Blonde. Can the Slave of the Ring and the Genie of the Lamp help our hero win the day? There’s only one way to find out – join them on a journey full of magical Eastern promise as they Open Sesame on a pantomime of pure sparkle and shine. The show is on from December 2 to January 3. For tickets and times go to chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk n To see an excerpt from the show scan the QR code here
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It’s the night before Christmas and Freddie and Mr Roo are settling down for bed, having set a trap to catch Father Christmas. Little do they know that they will be Der catching Guild by something hall very different and before long be on an adventure across the high seas to save Christmas for the people of Derby. On a chilly Christmas Eve the naughty pirate Captain Sprout plots a stinking plan to steal Christmas for himself. Armed with his band of cut-throat pirates and a magic treasure map, that rotter Captain is scheming to rob the good children of Derby of their Christmas stockings while they sleep in their beds. Only Captain Sprout didn’t plan for a plucky nine year old boy called Freddie. Armed with just his teddy – Mr Roo, and enough Christmas spirit to sink a galleon, Freddie dives feet first into an amazing adventure to stop Captain Sprout and save Christmas, but can he do it in time? n Captain Sprout and the Christmas Pirates will be on stage at the Guildhall Theatre from December 8-28. For ticket details and times go to derbylive.co.uk
Made in the Heart of Derbyshire by Lizzie Adcock
Pewter Decorations – www.arumliliedesigns.co.uk
May 26th-June 4th 2017
Original Landscape, Abstract and Still Life Fine Art Find us at Hope Valley Garden Centre, Hope Road, Bamford, S33 0AL Open Tuesday to Saturday 10.30am-4.30pm and Sunday 11am-4pm
Applications now open for the new extended Derbyshire Open Arts event
www.riversedgegallery.co.uk
Closing Date January 15th 2017
@REGgallery
For more details go to
01433 659796
@riversedgegallery
www.derbyshireopenarts.co.uk
@galleryREG
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Festive fairytale
F
our young dancers from the Claire Dobinson School of Dancing at Darley Dale are part of this year’s fairytale Christmas theme at Chatsworth House. Visitors during the festive season will be transported to a world populated by Nutcracker soldiers; elegant ballerinas and dancing snowflakes. The beautifully dressed rooms will tell the story of The Nutcracker with all the classic scenes from Clara’s dream; from the waltz of the snowflakes to the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. All the important characters are represented as the story unfolds in a series of stunning tableaux throughout the house. As well as the room guides being dressed in costume, a ballet dancer will be present each day, adding a touch of magic to the stunning story. Head housekeeper Janet Bitton said: “The Land of Sweets in the Great Dining Room will be the highlight for me. The only light is from the chandelier, like a moon above the city with its twinkling lights through the windows, and the glow from the huge Christmas trees in each corner is magical.” In a clever twist, visitors will be able to experience the story as though they are both in the audience at the theatre and stepping backstage at the ballet. Guides become stage managers and wardrobe mistresses. For a special launch event on the eve-of-the-season opening
the role of Sugar Plum Fairy was taken by Alice Rathbone, 23, from Oker, who has trained with Claire since she was a young child. Daisy Edwards, 19, also from Oker took the role of Clara. She is now in her final year at the Urdang Academy, London, and trains with Claire whenever she is home. Fifteen-year-old Benjamin Jones, from Darley Dale, who is head boy at the school, was
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The Nutcracker and Daisy Kerry, 17, who started with Claire when she was two, but currently trains at Moorland Elite Ballet School, was The Snow Queen. The theme will be running at Chatsworth until January 3 and there is a chance to visit in the evenings as the house will be open until 8pm on Thursdays and Fridays until December 16. n For more details go to chatsworth.org
gallery
artsbeat previews this month’s don’t-miss exhibitions – turn to agenda for further details and other galleries QUAD Gallery, Derby
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he Japanese inter-disciplinary creative collective teamLab are ‘Ultra-technologists’ who produce large-scale immersive installations that utilise the latest computer modelling techniques to create stunning interactive visual art experiences. What a Loving, and Beautiful World (2011), is a 3-screen installation of projected computer generated artworks. It features twenty-two SinoJapanese characters by the calligrapher Shishū which cascade down from ceiling to floor. The artwork is activated either by touch or by shadows which transform the images
into new motifs associated with the meanings of the characters—mostly inspired by nature such as the sun, moon, water, trees and birds. As these images and the viewers interact with one another, more forms emerge that transform into an ever-evolving landscape. Sound is also triggered and transformed by audience
interaction which ultimately generates a rich multi-sensory experience that is dependent upon the actions of visitors in the gallery and never repeats itself. teamLab consists of more than 400 members and in many of their works the boundaries between the artwork and the viewer are blurred.
Harley Gallery, Welbeck Estate One of England’s best known contemporary folk artists, Julie Arkell presents Away Away at the Harley Gallery until January 8. In this exhibition her beautiful mythical creatures fill a landscape of knitted ponds, paths and even shadows. Each of these creatures are assembled through knit, stitch and papier-mâché. Although their faces are neutral, they are given
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unique characters through clothing which is often adorned with words or phrases. Away Away was developed from a dream Arkell had. She decided to expand her collection of nature books and in turn think about the spaces surrounding the ‘creatures’ and objects she creates. Arkell is influenced by mountains, lakes, hills, and solitary trees,
St John Street Gallery, Ashbourne Wildlife artist Wendy Darker is staging her annual Christmas Exhibition in Ashbourne during December. Wendy, who is one of the gallery’s most popular artists, usually paints her animal subjects against a flat white background, which creates an uninterrupted connection with the onlooker. Loose brush strokes create life and movement in the painting, while attention to the eyes brings depth and soul to the body. The subjects disappear off the edge and around the corners of the painting, creating a feeling that these creatures are free to wander off the canvas at any time.
Foxlowe Gallery, Leek Staffordshire Artists Co-operative have opened their first joint event at Foxlowe Arts Centre – A Winter Gathering – which brings together an expansive range of original arts and crafts. Some of the members taking part are: jeweller Angela Smith; photographer Noel Bennett; Tina Paramour a papier-mâché artist; Tom Hackney, an abstract artist and furniture restorer (work pictured); Jo Hill a textile artist; wood turner Vance Lupton;. abstract artist and sculptor Mike Wheeley; Wayne Tomlinson a mixed media painter; Jo Hearn a ceramic and glass artist and blacksmith and metalwork artist Charis Jones. The exhibition will be on until December 24, Wednesday to Saturday from 10am-4pm and you can meet the artists on December 2 and 17.
Peak District Artisans at Chatsworth
The Peak District Artisans will begin the year with a showcase of their work at Chatsworth House. Members will be putting on a display featuring artists, designer makers and contemporary crafts people in the Burlington Room in The Stables. The exhibition which will be open daily from 10.30am-3.30pm from January 6 to March 17 is free, but the normal Chatsworth car parking fees will apply. Thirty-one artists are taking part including Catriona Hall (work pictured), Sue Gorman, Gary Sampson and Sarah Sharpe who you can read about on page 9. Go to peakdistrictartisans.co.uk for more details.
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bookshelf
n Landscape Photographer of the Year (AA Publishing £25) Supported by VisitBritain and Network Rail, the Landscape Photographer of the Year competition is the brainchild of Charlie Waite, one of today’s best-known landscape photographers.The winners are chosen by a panel of respected judges from thousands of entrants across four categories – Classic, Urban, Your View and Living - and there’s a special class for photographers under 17 years old. Read about a Derbyshire photographer with pictures in the book on page 31. Like the others before it, the 10th edition features everything the varied British landscape is renowned for – classic shots of verdant countryside, rugged mountains and moorland and stark urban industrial scenes capturing the beauty and diversity of 21st century Britain. With an introduction by Charlie Waite giving an insight into current photographic trends and a helpful technical section detailing the cameras, techniques and equipment used to create the stunning images, Landscape Photographer of the Year: Collection 10 is a must for everyone with an interest in photography as well as anyone who appreciates the British Countryside.
n The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron (Pan Macmillan £16.99)
A 12-week course that guides you through the process of recovering your creative self. It aims to dispel the ‘I’m not talented enough’ conditioning that holds many people back and helps you to unleash your own inner artist. Its step-bystep approach enables you to transform your life, overcome any artistic blocks you may suffer from, including limiting beliefs, fear, sabotage, jealousy and guilt, and replace them with self confidence and productivity. From Alicia Keys to Patricia Cornwell and Pete Townshend to Russell Brand, The Artist’s Way has helped thousands of people around the world to discover their inner artist.
n Dali: Les Diners de Gala by Salvador Dali (Taschen GmbH £44.99) Food and surrealism make perfect bedfellows: sex and lobsters, collage and
cannibalism, the meeting of a swan and a toothbrush on a pastry case. The opulent dinner parties thrown by Salvador Dali and his wife and muse, Gala were the stuff of legend. Luckily Dali published a cookbook in 1973, Les diners de Gala.This reprint features all 136 recipes over 12 chapters, specially illustrated by Dali, and organised by meal courses, including aphrodisiacs.
n The Art of Rivalry: Four Friendships, Betrayals and Breakthroughs in Modern Art by Sebastian Smee (Profile Books Ltd £16.99) This is a story about rivalry among artists. The sort of rivalry that emerges from admiration, friendship, love. The kind of rivalry that existed between Degas and Manet, Picasso and Matisse, Pollock and de Kooning, and Freud and Bacon. These were some of the most famous and creative relationships in the history of art, driving each individual to heights of creativity and inspiration - and provoking them to despair, jealousy and betrayal. Pulitzer Prizewinning art critic Sebastian Smee explores how, as both artists struggled to come into their own, they each played vital roles in provoking the other’s creative breakthroughs.
Bookshelf is sponsored by Scarthin Books, of Cromford 30
Chillingly beautiful Photographer Matt Oliver and his dog Ralph walk for miles to capture the essence of Derbyshire’s winter landscape
R
alph the rescue dog is a constant companion at the side of photographer Matt Oliver – which means the pooch often faces a bit more than the average walk in the park. In pursuit of the perfect landscape photograph Ralph is led up hill and down dale all over the Peaks, the Lakes and Scotland. And it seems his presence may be paying off as Matt has had his pictures commended for the Landscape Photographer of the Year competition for the past three years. This year two of his pictures have been
commended and are included in the annual glossy book of all the best entries. (read about it on page 30). “I am especially thrilled to have achieved this because it is the 10th anniversary book and so a bit more special,” said Matt as he stroked Ralph cuddled up on the sofa next to him. The 42-year-old photographer, who now lives in Somercotes, grew up in Swanwick and first became interested in photography at his secondary school. “Swanwick Hall had a darkroom and I took up photography as part of my art classes. We had great fun producing black and white photographs.
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“As a teenager I was always very keen on taking pictures and documented every family holiday in detail – much to the annoyance of my mum,” he joked. After studying for a National Diploma in the subject at Sheffield he went on to achieve
There is just
something about the early morning mist and the light
Clockwise from top left: Misty Hope Works, Stanage Light, Pre-Dawn on The Great Ridge, The Clearing and Cloud Cover which are this year’s commended pictures. Previous page: No Escape n Go to mattoliverphotography. com to see more of Matt’s images.
an HND at Dewsbury and was then employed as a commercial photographer for five years. In 2001 he started his own business – Liquid Image Photography based at Long Eaton – where he and his two partners have built up a healthy list of prestigious clients ranging from Aga and Rangemaster to Scruffs Workwear. Their professional studios even include full kitchen facilities so they can produce images of food. However it is landscape photography to which Matt turns in his spare time and he says that he likes to get outside several times a month. “Living here on the edge of the Peak District means that I can be in fantastic countryside in no time at all and I particularly love the Longnor area near Parkhouse Hill and Chrome Hill, The Roaches and Stanage Edge. I also have a soft spot for Curbar – mainly because a photograph from there was the first I had success with in the Landscape Photographer of the Year competition. “Ralph and I prefer to head off early in the morning when we go out. There is just something about the mists and the light at that time of day which you can’t beat. I have now got to know the landscape quite well so I plan a bit more carefully where I am going to go when, but there is always an element of surprise in what you see. “You are always learning as well and I hope that I will continue to improve so that one year I may win one of the coveted prizes.”
Cromford Studio and Gallery
Shop local for gifts this Christmas
It’s 40-up
M
ighty oaks from little acorns grow and that is certainly the case with Derbyshire’s Junction Arts the seeds for which were sown 40 years ago in South Normanton. The village community arts group was first set up in 1976 to provide alternative entertainment in the shape of shows, street events and workshops. Today Junction Arts is run by a team of six, including two project co-ordinators and a managing director. The participatory arts organisation and charity, which has been based in Newbold Road, Chesterfield for the past three years, works with artists of the highest quality to deliver challenging programmes which push boundaries and break new ground for people of all ages and abilities in the East Midlands. Jane Wells, one of the project coordinators, is bursting with enthusiasm about not only the work they do but also the fact that they have been doing it for four decades. “This is a significant organisation which we have sustained, evolved and adapted. Times are tough now and there have been tough times in the past for this community but we have a lot to celebrate and to be proud of,” she said. To celebrate the landmark birthday the group have come up with a new conservation and
Late night opening December 2nd & 9th Join artists Ruth Gray and Martin Sloman on December 17 to celebrate Christmas with mince pies and wine Open: 10am-5pm Wednesday to Sunday Market Place, Cromford, DE4 3QE 01629 826434
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for Junction Arts
Managing director Paul Steele and Jane Wells holding the poster with the rest of the Junction Arts team
interpretation project which will involve cataloguing the extensive archive they have collected since the beginning. It seems they are not an organisation to have an annual spring clean – stashed away in 38 boxes were photographs, meeting notes, posters and various other ephemera all holding clues to the history of the group. “It has been fascinating to see how styles and trends have changed over the years. Once the posters had to be hand drawn and some of them are really quite detailed,” said Jane who added that they were having a problem deciding what needed to be kept and
what should be thrown away. “The Record Office in Matlock is very strict about only taking a single copy of anything so we are having to be a bit ruthless.” They have discovered that by 1983 South Normanton Community Arts had taken the name of Junction 28 because they were based near Junction 28 of the M1. Later when the group moved to new premises in a different area they dropped the 28 in favour of Junction Arts – the name they have today. “We have also found photographs of people making beautiful banners some in villages we have yet to identify. We have been wondering
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what happened to the banners and would love to track them down as they will be a terrific historical record of how the places looked in those days.” As part of the JA40 project the group are also recording oral histories from people involved with their work and they have commissioned a 20 minute documentary film telling their story as well as a five minute piece of celebratory music. Some of the archives, the film and the music will form an exhibition which will tour places where the group has been based down the years: South Normanton, Shirebrook, Creswell, Bolsover and Chesterfield.
Dark tale literature
A
lmost a year ago I was interviewing author Joanna Cannon about her soon-to-be published book The Trouble with Goats and Sheep, writes Amanda Penman.
Award-winning traditional Peak District Pub SERVING CHRISTMAS LUNCH AND DINNER THROUGHOUT DECEMBER
She told me about winning the York Festival of Writing’s Friday Night Live competition with a 500 word excerpt from the book and the flurry of offers from literary agents that followed. Joanna later told her publishing success story to an audience at Derby Book Festival and one of those listening was volunteer Jo Bunt. Jo is herself a writer and has a love for books going back to her childhood, which is why she had volunteered to help at the festival in the first place. “Listening to Joanna telling us all about the writing festival and what happened inspired me so much. I just thought ‘wow I would love to be able to take part in that competition myself’,” said Jo. And that’s exactly what she did... and remarkably she too won and now has four agents chasing after her book Til Death Do Us Part – a dark story about three women who shared an abusive partner and
Telephone 01298 83288 Mobile 07866778847
see www.peakpub.co.uk for details
Scarthin Books A homely refuge and social hub
New, secondhand and antiquarian bookshop with almost 100,000 titles We buy books and music by appointment
Vegetarian & Vegan Cafe with cosy outdoor seating area
Bookshop 9-6pm Monday-Saturday, 10-6pm Sunday Cafe 10-5.15pm Monday - Saturday, 10-6pm Sunday
Listed by the Guardian online as one of the ten ‘best bookshops in the world’ The Promenade, Scarthin, Cromford, DE4 3QF Tel: 01629 823272 email: nickscarthin@gmail.com
www.scarthinbooks.com
Follow us on
and watch our film on
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wins award Book festival
volunteer inspired to become prize
winner herself together locked him in a cellar to die. “I persuaded my husband that a perfect wedding anniversary present would be a trip to York. I entered three competitions and later received an email to say I was on a shortlist of seven for the Friday Night Live and was invited to read my 500 word piece out to the audience. “It was really nerve wracking as I am not used to big crowds or speaking. I was first up and high on adrenalin and just went for it. The audience loved it. It really was amazing, people were thumping on the tables as they clapped,” she recalled. Excited Derby Book Festival organisers Jenny Denton and Sian Hoyle are keeping their fingers crossed that Jo will be first of their volunteers to return to the event as a guest author. Jo, who lives in the city with her husband and eight-yearold twin sons, was born in Cyprus to British parents and after moving to England with her family went to school
in Nottingham. She worked in London as a recruitment consultant before moving back to the East Midlands to be near her mother. It was then that she took the decision to change her life by becoming a writer while bringing up the boys. “I wanted to be around for the kids and having ignored my writing for several years I decided to give it a go,” she explained. Her first self-published book Daughters of the Wind was set in Cyprus and tells the story of Leni, who was taken from the island as a baby when the Turkish invaded in 1974, who has returned to the island to trace her roots. Her second Eye of the Beholder explored the story of two sisters living in different countries but linked by the effects of the Second World War.
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Jo has recently completed a six month online writing course with Curtis Brown Creative and she credits the teaching she has had with helping her win the Friday Night Live competition. “They not only helped me edit it but the course also gave me structure to the way I work. “In the past I tended to not write for weeks and then become obsessive about it – even to the level where I needed to set an alarm in case I forgot to go and collect the boys from school. “Thanks to the tuition I now sit down every morning to do work – no waiting for the mood to take me and that has been essential since I won the competition because I then had to get the book finished. Faced with a deadline you have to be focused.”
Author Faulks joins festival line-up
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est-selling author Sebastian Faulks will attend a special opening event at next year’s Derby Book Festival in Derby Cathedral. The event, on June 9, will coincide with the arrival at the Silk Mill of the Tower of London Poppies and will focus on the First World War. One of Sebastian’s best-known and most popular novels is Birdsong, depicting a British soldier’s experience on the frontline during the First World War and giving a harrowing account of life in the trenches. He wrote the novel to bring more public awareness to the experience of war remembered by veterans of The Great War. The organisers of the nine-day festival have also announced some other exciting events for
Birdsong writer Sebastian Faulks
the 2017 programme. Derby Cathedral will host a number of events including Reverend Richard Coles, presenter of BBC Radio 4’s Saturday Live show and a panellist on shows such as QI and Have I Got News For You. The former member of the pop group The Communards will be talking about his latest book Bringing in the Sheaves. Historian and novelist Alison Weir, whose second novel in her series featuring the six wives of Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn: A King’s Obsession, will be published in May, is making a second visit to the festival. Alison’s event last June was a sell-out with many people
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disappointed that they couldn’t buy tickets. Crime writer Stephen Booth, whose best-selling Cooper and Fry novels are set in the Peak District, will also return to the festival and lead an event entitled Derbyshire Noir with fellow local crime authors Steven Dunne and Sarah Ward and debut author Roz Watkins. Organisers also hope to include a well-known gardening author in the festival programme to attract people visiting the county for the new RHS Flower Show at Chatsworth. The festival programme will be published on April 11. To find out more, visit derbybookfestival.co.uk where you can sign up for more information. You can also follow the Festival on Twitter at: @DerbyBookFest and on Facebook: facebook.com/ derbybookfestival
have a go
Winter might be here but that’s no reason to stay at home – get out and try your hand at something new for 2017 Anne Alldread Textiles n Regular felt making workshops in Belper covering a variety of felting techniques, from the basics to creating a beautiful scarf, cushion or wall hanging. Or you can join in at the weekly textile groups now on Monday, 2-4pm and Wednesday 10am12.30pm, to try tapestry, weaving, collage, mixed media, printing, design and much more. A small friendly group with an emphasis on enjoyment while creating. For further information contact: Anne Alldread on 07817745705, or email annealldread@yahoo.co.uk or visit annealldread.com Artcore, Charnwood Street, Derby n Innocence and Expression a series of free arts workshops designed for young people 18 and under. Activities include painting, clay, mosaics and sandcasting. January 14 and 21, February 11 and 25, March 11 and 25, 2pm-4pm. Innocence and Expression is a BBC Children in Need funded programme. For further information please email info@artcoreuk.com or call 01332 384561 Bakewell Community Arts Workshops, Medway Community Centre, Bakewell n Crafternoons – Fridays during term time 1pm–3pm. n Crafty Kids Club –Tuesdays during term time 10am–12noon. For further details call the Medway Centre on 01629 813638 or email enquiries@medwaycentre.co.uk Bakewell Piano Studio n Tuition (first lesson free), rehearsal, accompaniment, recording, hourly practice room
Make a festive
centre-piece
WITH the help of textile and mixed media artist Helen Moyes you could make a Christmas table centre-piece with seasonal flowers and festive scents. Starting with a vintage tea cup and saucer, on this two hour course on December 18, you will hire. 5 Kings Court, Bakewell, telephone 07811410406 or email lessonsbakewellpianostudio.co.uk Betty’s Sewing Box, Cokayne Avenue, Ashbourne n Crochet Clinic first Wednesday of the month 6-9pm. Details of other courses at bettys-sewing-box.co.uk Richard Bett’s Jewellery Studio, Belper n Six-session jewellery making courses. Please ring 0787 1240179 to book a place.
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create a fresh flower and foliage floral arrangement and a scented candle in a cup. You will have a choice of foliage, flowers and scents available so tailor your items to your taste. You can take your own cup and saucers or you can buy a set on the day. All other materials are provided on the day. For more details go to homecoaching.co.uk. Cromford Studio and Gallery, Market Place, Cromford n Watercolour tuition is available for small groups or on a one-to-one basis, all abilities welcome. Contact the gallery on 10629 826434 for more details. Cromford Mill, Cromford n Arkwright Spinsters demonstrating spinning and other crafts, third Sunday of every month, December 18, 11-4pm. n Knit and Natter, second Wednesday of every month,
Anne Alldread
textile artist and felt maker
In The Flow
n stationery n arts n crafts n creativity centre
n Felt making workshops n Weekly textile group
5 Crown Square, Matlock, DE4 3AT Telephone: 01629 55095
n Handmade accessories n Textile artwork
n To book contact annealldread@yahoo.co.uk n For more information go to www.annealldread.com
BOBBIN LACE MAKING
one-day workshops and weekly evening classes 6 Friar Gate Studios, Ford Street, Derby Telephone 01332 742533 or visit the website for more details
www.louisewestlacedesign.co.uk
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off 10% ases h purc h this wit vert ad
celebrating the arts in Derbyshire Tel: 07872 066719 email: editor@arts-beat.co.uk
Professional Training for Puppetry in Derby
The London School of Puppetry has come to Derby! October 2016 brings you Marionette Carving and our Foundation Course visit the website for more details!
www.londonschoolofpuppetry.com 40
have a go December 14, 10am-noon. December 10 and 11, Traditional Christmas wreath making workshops for beginners, 11am-12:30pm and 1:30pm-3pm and Make Your Own Christmas Decorations, 11am-3pm. More details at cromfordmills.org.uk Dave Griffin, Stained Glass Artist For more details please contact Dave on 07742 481930 or visit dave-griffin.co.uk Esther Tyson, Screen Print at Via Gellia Mill, Bonsall n Regular screenprint workshops using hand-cut stencils, water-based inks, producing a limited edition print. Small groups in a working studio environment. Contact Esther at esther.tyson@ network.rca.ac.uk for more details. Etienne Gallery art classes, In The Flow, Matlock n Etienne Gallery offers year-round studio art classes and workshops taught by experienced artist and teacher, Jason Etienne. Go to jasonetienne.com for details Glass @ The Barn, Carr Hall Farm Business Centre, Hulland Ward n Day Workshops: ideal for those who would like to experiment a bit more with glass, creating larger items, or experimenting with different procedures. Use of equipment such as grinders, drills and ring saw available after brief demonstration. Go to glass-at-the-barn.co.uk for more details.
Green Man Gallery, Hardwick Hall, Buxton n Every day: 6x4: Inspired by Landscape. Drop-in at any time and join this record-breaking attempt and fundraiser. n Tuesdays: Life drawing, a weekly session for artists at any stage with a professional life model. Session 7pm to 9pm. Cost £8 per session. Booking essential as space is limited. Contact Curtis Bollington 07880 535615. Over 18s only. n Dance Classes: £5 per class for children; £6 per class for adults; £10 combined adult class. For information on all dance classes and to book places, contact the teacher, Catherine Farrimond, on 01298 70984. Every Thursday – Theatre Dance for Children (modern, jazz tap and stagecraft) 4.15pm for six to ten years; 5.15pm for 11 to 15 years. Every Thursday – Adult Ballet/ Body Conditioning and Tap Dance Ballet/Body Conditioning at 7pm followed by Tap Dance at 8pm. Every Saturday – Ballet for Children – 10.15am for six to ten years; 11.15am for 11 to 15 years. n Village Carols Workshop with Carol Bowns December 3, 2pm-4pm. Go and learn some of the carols traditionally sung in Derbyshire villages and take part in a Come and Sing session at the Buxton Festival Fringe Website Launch Party from 7pm on the same day. Free to take part. Musicians also welcome. For further information and booking
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for other courses contact hello@ thegreenmangallery.com or 01298 937375 unless otherwise stated. Furthest from the Sea, Maypole Café, Bar & Theatre, Derby n December 7 and 14, 7pm, Djembe Drumming Workshop – Learn to play traditional Djembe and West African drumming styles, All skill levels welcome. For advance bookings contact ramckerron@ gmail.com. n Derby Comedy Writers Club. A free meeting of minds to explore ideas and complete writing exercises together. December 5 and 19. Doors 7.30pm, 8pm start. Free. Go to furthestfromthesea.co.uk for more details. Helen Jagger, sustainable textile design n Drop-in sessions at St Ann’s Catholic Rooms, Buxton, Fridays between 9.15am and 11.15am, guidance with a range of sewing projects such as household, soft furnishing, dress, and the recycling of fabrics. Go to helenjagger.co.uk for more details. Helen Moyes, Textile and Mixed Media Artist, Sheffield n December 18, 1pm-3pm, Scented Floral Tea Party Christmas Theme Workshop. n Sip and Sew or Knit and Natter, first Monday of the month, 6-7.30pm, in Eccleshall, Sheffield. For more details go to www.homecoaching. co.uk
have a go Mary Smith, artist and tutor mixed media workshops n Weekly classes in Broadway Baptist Church community rooms, Derby, on Thursdays from 10amnoon. All ages and abilities welcome. The workshops for 2017 are now being organised. For more details go to mary-smith.co.uk Matlock Artists Society, All Saints Church Hall, Smedley Street n The club’s Portrait Group meets the first Wednesday of every month from 9.30am-12noon. Everyone is welcome, £5 to include light refreshments. Please contact Doreen Andrews 01629 824640 or Colin Daffern 01629 733261. Little London Gallery, Holloway n Develop your studio practice and techniques with Chris Tkacz, at his Little London Gallery studio in Holloway near Matlock. Small groups, maximum six or individual attention. All media and techniques offered. Contact Chris Tkacz by email at info@littlelondongallery. co.uk or telephone 01629 534825. Pauline Townsend Silk Painter n Workshops for beginners and improvers in Buxton. Schedule available on the website: www. silkpainter.co.uk Pitchblue, Newbridge Works, Coldwell Street, Wirksworth n Christmas Decorations and Crafts, full or half day, December 2. n Christmas Gifts – Painting Silk, December 9. n Natural Wreaths, December 16 and 17, 10am-1pm. n Felt-making, Nuno and 3D Felting, January 13 and 14. Dress making, January 26 and 27. n Silk Screen Printing, Stencilling and Cut Out, February 4. Full day workshops from 10am3.30pm with lunch and a half day is until 1pm.You can choose one day or two. Go to pitchbluecreative.com for more details.
Parkwood Pottery Alfreton n Evening throwing courses on weekdays. Telephone 07919838108 for more details. Purple and Grey – courses for emerging artists n Purple and Grey have teamed up with The Society of All Artists to create a regional art group with a programme of meetings and workshops to be staged at Tansley Village Hall from 10.30am-12.30pm on Wednesday mornings throughout the year. The first is on February 8. See the 2017 programme at purpleandgrey.co.uk. Book online or by emailing purpleandgreyinfo@ gmail.com Small Print Company, 2-3 Friary Street, Derby n Introduction to letterpress. December 3, January 12, 26, February 9 and 18, 6pm. n Create a Letterpress Print, December 8, 6pm and January 21, and February 4 at 12 noon.. Details of various courses at smallprintcompany.co.uk StraightCurves, 104 Saltergate, Chesterfield n Festive Open Day – December 3, 10.30am-2.30pm, an annual event to tie in with Small Business Saturday. Browse goodies from local artists and craftspeople to buy as gifts or keep for yourself. n December 20 -January 3 Christmas Holiday Activities. From Jumping Clay to Jewellery Making, there is something for everyone and the activities suitable for children aged three plus. n Sew Socials – Various daytimes and evenings Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. A two and a half hour session for those who can already use a sewing machine. n Woolly Wednesdays – every Wednesday, 10am-12.30pm and 6.30pm-9pm. All arts and crafts are welcome at this session. n Little Creatives – every Friday 9.45am-11.15am, and every Monday
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9.45am-1.15am. Little Creatives is a workshop designed especially for pre-school children and their parents. n Finish Off Fridays – every Friday, 12 noon-3pm. Finish Off Fridays are the perfect opportunity for you to come along and conquer your UFOs (that’s Un-Finished Objects). See straightcurves.co.uk for details. St John Street, Gallery, Ashbourne n December 5-7 – Lewis Noble Sketching and Painting the Derbyshire Landscape – studio workshop. Back by popular demand. To book, phone 01335 347425 or email enquiries@ stjohngalleryandcafe.co.uk. More details at stjohngalleryandcafe.co.uk Karina Goodman Studio 61 n Workshops and Tuition. Derbyshire RSC for The SAA. New for 2017 – Regional Purple and Grey Art Group. Visit karinagoodmanstudio61.co.uk for more information Louise West Lace Design 6 Friar Gate Studios, Ford Street, Derby n Evening classes in bobbin lace making, Tuesdays 6-8pm. One-day workshops for a maximum of ten students, £30, December 6 and 17. Go to louisewestlacedesign. co.uk for booking details. West Studios, Sheffield Road, Chesterfield n Community Choir. A weekly session open to people of all vocal abilities. Every Thursday, 10am12pm. Free. Showcase performance on December 1, 11.15am. – West Studios for latest updates and email hello@weststudios.co.uk or call 01246 500799 to reserve your place on any courses. Zantium Studios, Godfrey Hole House, Hopton n Go to zantium.co.uk for details of lots more courses in 2017.
Kickstarter key to success
For the last year she and her band, which includes her guitarist husband Pat Sprakes, have been gigging the show all over the country and one
PICTURES: Mark Ludbrook
B
y the time most of you read this, jazz musician Wendy Kirkland will know whether or not she has been successful in crowd funding her first album Piano Divas.
The album is a
tribute to an array of jazz
music legends question they kept being asked was ‘Is there a CD?’. “We always had to say ‘no’ so we realised it was time we did something about it, but we don’t have very deep pockets unfortunately and as unsigned artists it was always going to be difficult to make it happen – so we decided to turn to Kickstarter. They were asking people to back us to the tune of £3,000 and raised nearly £600 in the first couple of weeks. The deadline for hitting the target is November 30, so if you are reading this earlier than that you still have a chance to help out visit kickstarter.com and search for ‘Wendy Kirkland’. Wendy, 48, describes the show and the album as like a tribute act to the likes of Diana Krall, Nina Simone, Eliane Elias and Blossom Dearie but it is much more than that as it features the singing and piano of a woman who has been likened to Krall herself. Wendy, who is Chesterfield born and bred, began taking piano lessons aged eight. She was so promising she won a scholarship to have all her lessons paid for by Derbyshire Music and with their help achieved all her classical grades. “It really did help me learn more than I might have done so I have always been grateful for that,” she said. By the time she was a teenager Wendy was getting interested in jazz having read her Dad’s books on the likes of
Dave Brubeck and when she eventually made the switch from classical she never looked back. Not believing she would be able to make a living from music she studied mechanical engineering and got herself a job in computing and thought she would just continue to play for fun. Eventually, though, the music started to take over and for the last 15 years Wendy has been a regular on the UK jazz scene playing at festivals and clubs all over the country. She plays piano and Hammond organ and sings whilst accompanying herself. She also works as a session player. Four years ago Wendy became the driving force behind the Chesterfield Jazz Club, which she launched with her husband. “There was a folk club in the town but nothing for lovers of jazz and we thought it was an untapped market which needed filling so we decided
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to do something about it with the aim of bringing some of the best of the country’s players to the town. “So far it has been great and more and more people are getting to know about the monthly sessions and we regularly have an audience of 50 or more. “So long as I can continue to play and entertain alongside other great musicians I am happy,” she said. The Chesterfield Jazz Club meets at Club Chesterfield, Chester Street, on the third Thursday of the month with doors at 8pm and music at 8.30pm. On December 15 you can Swing Into Christmas with Gary Grace. Go to chesterfield jazz.com for more information. To find out more about Wendy go to wendykirkland. com You can watch her performing by scanning the QR code.
music
artsbeat’s essential guide to Derbyshire’s best live music from classical and choirs to indie, rock’n’roll and folk Gifted songwriter
to perform for Buxton audience
T
eddy Thompson who is regarded as one of the most gifted singer songwriters of his generation will be in concert at the Pavilion Arts Centre, Buxton, in December. Teddy is famously the son of Richard Thompson, a stalwart of the music world, whose performances have sold out Buxton Opera House numerous times. Teddy emigrated to the USA almost 20 years ago, barely
Rock and Pop
Buxton Opera House and Pavilion Arts Centre, Buxton n The Sensational 60s Experience, November 29, 7.30pm. n Low, Formed in Duluth, Minnesota, in 1993, Low were perhaps the slowest of the so-called ‘slowcore’ bands. December 2, 7.30pm. n Brian May and Kerris Ellis, December 11, 7.30pm. n The ELO Experience, Thursday 12 January 7.30pm. n Billy Bragg and Joe Henry, the Shine A Light tour. They will play
Teddy Thompson
out of his teens, to embark on a music career. Since arriving in the States, he has released five albums to critical acclaim songs from the journey, along with favourites from their own back catalogues, January 21, 7.30pm. n The Lil’ Jimmy Reed Band, Saturday January 21, 7.30pm, Pavilion Arts Centre. n 80s Mania, January 28, 7.30pm. n Chas Cole for CMP Entertainment presents, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, January 29, 7.30pm. Details at buxtonoperahouse.org.uk Furthest From The Sea, Derby Maypole Café, Bar and Theatre n Join Matt McGuinness and the MLC in their first full band Derby show prior to next year’s tour. December 13, Doors 7.30pm,
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and he has contributed to many works, including his duet with Rufus Wainwright, King of the Road from the soundtrack to the Golden Globe and Bafta-winning film Brokeback Mountain. As well as projects with Rufus and Martha Wainwright and Jenni Muldaur, Thompson has recorded two solo songs for the soundtrack to the Leonard Cohen tribute I’m Your Man: Tonight Will be Fine and The Future. He also contributed two songs to the album The Songs of Nick Drake: Way to Blue, a retrospective on the late singer. In his free time he performs with his rockabilly cover band, Poundcake. To buy tickets for the gig on December 13 at 8pm go to.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk performance 8pm. n Josh Okeefe, a British singer songwriter in Nashville for the past five years, has recently stepped into his own after finding a new voice and sound by immersing himself in music from the 50s and 60s, December 17 and 18, doors 7.30pm. Go to furthestfromthesea.co.uk for more details for all events The George and Dragon, Bridge Street, Belper Friday Night Music Nights offer some of the best festival acts from all over the UK. All the gigs are free and will run most Friday nights 9-11pm.
music Guildhall Theatre, Derby The Simon and Garfunkel Story, January 24-25, 7.30pm. More details from derbylive.co.uk The Old Clubhouse, Buxton Live band every Friday. Go to oldclub-house.co.uk for more details. The Old Poets’ Corner, Ashover n Tuesdays is open acoustic night n First and third Sundays Shaun Byrne and guests. More details at oldpoets.co.uk
Queen’s Head, Chesterfield Road Belper n December 1, Andy White. n December 8, Esther Swift. n January 14, Dave Sturt and Andy Boyle. n January 28 Headsticks. Doors at 8pm. For more details go to queensheadbelper.weebly.com
Folk and Jazz
Tipsy Toad (formerly Bar None),
Bakewell Road, Matlock Elles Bailey, is performing with her band at a fundraising concert for Darley Dale in Bloom, January 19, doors open 7.30pm. Tickets from wegottickets.com/event/380376. Belper Folk Club, The Old King’s Head, Days Lane, Belper Every Tuesday at 8.30pm. For more details check out their facebook page or go to belperfolkclub.co.uk Buxton Opera House and Pavilion Arts Centre, Buxton
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music n Jazz at the Arts Centre, Andy Powell, December 4, 1pm. n Emily Portman and the Coracle Band Sunday, December 11, 7.30pm. n Teddy Thompson, Tuesday December 13, 8pm. n The Houghton Weavers Christmas Concert, December 17, 7.30pm. n Jazz at the Arts Centre, Mart Rodger, Manchester Jazz, January 8, 1pm. n Rose-Marie, January 11, 7.30pm. n Chas Cole for CMP Entertainment presents An Evening with Tom Paxton, January, 20, 7.30pm. n The Pitmen Poets, January 2, 7.30pm. n The Transports, January 27, 7.30pm. Chesterfield Jazz Club, Chester Street, Chesterfield Swing into Christmas with Gary Grace, December 15, doors at 8pm. You can read more about club founder Wendy Kirkland and the club on pages 43 and 44. More details at wendykirkland.com Derby Jazz n Matt Chandler Organ Trio, December 2, 8pm, The Cube, Deda, Derby. n Matthew Halsall Gondwana Orchestra, December 16, 8pm, Robert Ludlam Theatre, Derby. More details from derby-jazz.co.uk Furthest from the Sea, Derby Maypole Café, Bar and Theatre n Ben Wynne, live acoustic music in the front bar, December 3, from 8.30pm. Free entry. n Oobleck – exploring the relationships between jazz, funk, rock, blues and fusion, December 3, doors 7.30pm. n The Hangover Cure. An afternoon of good food and good music featuring local acoustic acts, in the front bar, December 4, from 4pm. Go to furthestfromthesea. co.uk for more details for all events.
Big Session is
back for 2017 THE Big Session Festival will be back in Buxton for 2017 with a line-up from the cream of English folk music. Hosts the Oysterband will be joined by the likes of Eliza Carthy and Saul Rose, Levellers Acoustic with support from Honey Rider, Blackbeard’s Tea Party, The Hut People, supported by Ray Cooper and Nancy Kerr and the Sweet Visitor Band, with support from Jess Morgan. There will be a ceilidh, a Green Man Gallery, Buxton A Night of Music #23 – Charity Gig. Local young musicians perform original material and covers to raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust. December 10, doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm start. Advance booking advised. For further information contact hello@thegreenmangallery. com or 01298 937375. The Old Hall Hotel, Hope n Folk Blues and Beyond events. Guest spots are Elfin Bown,
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Big Session beer festival, and workshops during the event over the May bank holiday weekend from April 28-May 1. There is also a special Folk Train leaving from Manchester Piccadilly on the Saturday at 11.49am arriving just in time for the afternoon workshop and evening concerts. On the Monday morning you will be able to get out into the Peak District countryside with The Big Session May Day Ramble. Weekend tickets are already on sale. Go to buxtonoperahouse.org.uk for details. December 14 and Toein’ in the Dark, December 28. n Singers and musicians in the bar, 8pm, every second and fourth Wednesday of the month. Go to folkandblues.club for more details or call 07913331078. The Peak Concerts, The County Lounge, Derbyshire County Council offices, Matlock The Blues Band, December 9. Ticketline 01246 860022 or online at peakconcerts.co.uk
music PR Promotions gigs – various locations n Johnny Coppin, Christ Church, Bridge Street, Belper, December 15, 8pm – All on a Winter’s Night. One of England’s finest singer songwriters presents a rich mix of carols, new songs, stories and superstitions, with Paul Burgess and Dik Cadbury, Tickets from 01773 853428. n Traditional mid-winter revels charity night with the Derbyshire Volunteers Big Band plus guests, Rolls Royce Social Club, The Pavilion, Moor Lane, Derby, January 21, 8pm. Box Office 01332 255800, derbylive.co.uk or 01773 853428. n The Transports, A Tale of Exile and Migration, January 29 at 2pm and 7pm, Guildhall Theatre, Derby. Join some of Britain’s leading folk musicians for a re-telling of Peter Bellamy’s folk tale. Featuring BBC Radio2 Folk Awards winners, The Young’uns, Nancy Kerr, Greg Russell and members of Bellowhead. Tickets from derbylive.co.uk and 01773 853428. Youlgreave Village Hall Acoustic musician singer/songwriter Steve Knightley, February 11, doors open 7pm for 7.30 start. Tickets £18 from 01629 630282.
Folk concert
with a festive feel ONE of England’s finest singer songwriters Johnny Coppin is presenting All on a Winter’s Night – a rich mix of Christmas carols, new songs, stories and superstitions – with Paul Burgess and Dik Cadbury at Christ Church, in Belper on December 15, at 8pm. Formerly with the folk-rock band Decameron, Coppin has had many solo albums with his most recent being
Classical Music
Abbotsholme Arts Society, Abbotsholme School Chapel Trevor Pinnock 70th Birthday Concert. Trevor is know worldwide as a harpsichordist and conductor and his birthday celebration tour includes many distinguished musical colleagues, December 10, 8pm. More details at abbotsholmeartssociety.co.uk Bakewell Town Hall, Bakewell A Christmas Musical Celebration. Join professional singer and vocal coach, Lynda Radford and singing stars of the future who will be performing Christmas music from carols to modern Christmas hits, December 10, 7.30pm. Tickets from ticketsource.co.uk/bakewelltownhall. Buxton Opera House, Buxton n Coffee Concert, Melia Duo, December 9, 1pm. n Christmas with the Buxton Musical Society, December 11, 7.30pm. An evening of seasonal choral and orchestral music with the Choir of Fairfield Endowed C of E Junior School. n Kaleidoscope Community Choir Christmas Concert, December 13, 1pm. The Winding Stair and Breaking the Silence with Mike Silver. His clear voice together with his ability to write fine songs make his music essentially English in character while having universal appeal. Johnny has played on the European folk scene for many years and has supported Gerry Rafferty, Jasper Carrott and The Albion Band on tour and has appeared at festivals all over Europe including Cambridge and Edinburgh. For tickets telephone 01773 853428.
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n The British Philharmonic Concert Orchestra presents New Year’s Eve Gala Concert and Dinner, December 31. n Coffee Concert, Harmonopoly Barbershop Quartet, January 6,1pm. n Kinder Choirs of the High Peak presents Messiah, January 8, 4pm. More details from buxtonoperahouse.org.uk Belper Singers An evening of traditional Christmas songs and carols. December 17, 7.30pm, St Luke’s Church, Heage, Booking advised, tickets available from belpersingers@gmail.com or Sue on 07990 658071. Go to belpersingers.webs.com for further information. Buxton Musical Society, St John’s Church, Buxton Christmas with the Buxton Musical Society, December 11, 7.30pm. More details from buxtonmusicalsociety. org.uk Chesterfield Gilbert and Sullivan Choir Christmas Concert in Chesterfield Parish Church. Enjoy festive music, old and new, performed by the choir with guests Harlequin Brass, in the wonderful acoustic of The Crooked
music Spire. December 14, 7.30pm. Tickets £9 available from 01246 345777 or on the door. Chesterfield Lunchtimes Concerts, Chesterfield Library Christmas Concert with Andrew Marple and friends, December 10, 11.30am. Saturday Concerts at Elder Yard Chapel, Chesterfield Christmas Concert with MusicWork Vocal Ensemble, December 17, 11.45am-12.30pm, admission free. Chapel-en-le-Frith Ladies’ Choir Christmas concert at Buxton Methodist Church on December 10, at 7.30pm, with guests the Burbage Band. Tickets will be available from Hall’s, Mica Hardware store or on the door. For further details call 01298 815965 or visit chapel-en-lefrithladieschoir.co.uk Cromford Mill, Cromford n Carol Singing in the Mill Yard, December 10,1-3pm. Go along and join in with local carol singers as they perform their collection of Christmas favourites. n Christmas Music, December 11, 11am-1pm, Windwirks¸ Wirksworth’s wind band, will be delighting audiences with their Christmas repertoire. n Carol Service at St Mary’s Church, December 16, 7.15pm. Visit cromfordmills.org.uk for further details. Derby Cathedral n Derby Hospitals’ Choir Christmas Concert, with Derwent Brass, December 2, 7.30pm. n Derby Concert Orchestra Countdown to Christmas, December 3, 7pm. n G4 Christmas by Candlelight, December 7, 7.30pm. Tickets from DerbyLive. n Handel’s Messiah by candlelight, Saturday December 10, 7pm. Derby Cathedral Choir and Heart of England Orchestra conducted by Hugh Morris.Tickets from derbylive. co.uk, call 0333 666 3366, or from
First home gig
with new name MATT McGuinness and The MLC will perform their first home town gig in the intimate setting of The Maypole Café, Bar and Theatre on December 13. This experienced five-piece, comprises of guitar, piano and organ, drums, bass, saxophone and whistle, with a smattering of vocals. They explore sounds from contemporary folk to good the Derby Live box office. n Derby High School, Christmas Carol Service, December 13, 2.15pm. A traditional carol service including festive music from all five choirs across the school . Free admission. n Derby Choral Union – A Jazz Christmas, accompanied by the Midlands Youth Jazz Orchestra, directed by John Ruddick with Hugh Morris on the organ, December 17, 7.30pm. More information from derbycathedral.org. Derby Bach Choir Christmas Songs and Carols, December 10, 7.30pm, St. John the Evangelist’s Church, Bridge Street,
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old fashioned rock ‘n’ roll with a touch of blues, providing a backdrop to the contemplative and wryly insightful lyrics of Matt McGuinness (formally of Karl and the Marx Brothers). Content in their own skin and unashamedly spanning the decades some would dismiss as middle age, The MLC are passionate about love, life and politics and far from short of direction, vision and ambition. Doors at 7.30pm for 8pm. Tickets £5 on the door. Derby. They will be joined by The Old Vicarage School Choir and Derventio Brass and conducted by James Foulds and accompanied by Richard Hodges on the organ. Tickets are £12 with a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. More details at derbybachchoir.com The Derbyshire Singers Christmas Cracker, December 1, at 7pm, Highfields School, Matlock with Andrew Mackenzie-Wicks, Tenor and Thoresby Colliery Band More details at derbyshiresingers.org . Derby Chamber Music, Multi-faith Centre, University of Derby Next concerts, December
music 2, and January 13, 7.30pm. For more information go to derbychambermusic.org The Derwent Singers Veni Emmanuel – magnificent music for Advent leading up to Britten’s ever popular Ceremony of Carols. December 3, 7:30pm, St. Osmund’s Church, London Road, Derby. Tickets £10. For more details go to derwentsingers.org.uk Music at Duffield, Ecclesbourne School, Duffield Bemrose Bursary Recital, Victor Lim, piano, January 28. All concerts are at 7.30pm. For more details go to musicatduffield.com The Green Man Gallery, Buxton A Fabulous Interlude: Daisy Barker and her pupils. The return of local singing teacher Daisy and her pupils with classical numbers and songs from shows. December 22, 7pm. Contact hello@thegreenmangallery. com for time and ticket price. Furthest From The Sea, Derby Maypole Café, Bar and Theatre An evening of Christmas songs with soprano, Veronica Jones, December 12. Go to furthestfromthesea.co.uk for more details. High Peak Orchestra Concert with music by Schumann, Mozart and Brahms, December 10, New Mills Town Hall, New Mills, 7.30pm. Conductor Patrick Gundry-White. More information at highpeakorchestra.org.uk Ignite UK, Belper School, Belper A programme of seasonal carols and music from this four part harmony a cappella chorus, December 3 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets from wegottickets.com. Melbourne Assembly Rooms, Melbourne n Achoired Taste in Concert, December 9 and 10, 7pm. n Melbourne Operatic Society in Concert, December 16, 7pm. n Melbourne Town Band, December 17, 7pm.
Blues Princess
in charity gig IN something of a coup for Matlock the rapidly rising star of the British blues scene Elles Bailey is going to be performing at The Tipsy Toad, formerly Bar None, in Bakewell Road, in January. She has added the town to her tour as she is a family friend of Lyn Mason, the chair of the Darley Dale in Bloom committee. The concert on January 19 will help raise funds for the gold award-winning floral displays in 2017. n Travelling People’s Xmas Concert, December 23, 7pm. More details from melbourneassemblyrooms.co.uk Sitwell Singers Christmas with the Sitwells, December 12, 7.30pm, St John the
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Bristol based Elles, dubbed a Blues Princess,is a captivating, hard-working songstress who mixes the soul of the blues and blends of country with a contemporary edge. Her music features meaningful and personal lyrics, big anthemic choruses and smooth blends of pop sensibilities. She and her band are currently scoring rave reviews from Bristol to Berlin, with energy packed hi-octane performances and her trademark gravelly voice providing the lead. Tickets from wegottickets. com/event380376, are £11. Evangelist Church, Bridge Street, Derby, Join them for their traditional Christmas celebration of carols, songs and readings. Tickets are £10 (under 16s free) from sitwellsingers. org.uk, 01332 662519, Foulds music shop, Derby, or on the door.
attitude
Comment and opinion from reviewers and readers on the topics being talked about in Derbyshire’s arts community Belper Players never take the
easy option To close their 80th birthday celebrations, it would have been an easy option for Belper Players to take the safe route and produce something popular along the lines of Ayckbourn, Bennett or Pinter. Instead they chose to celebrate with a play written by an Italian some 270 years ago. Carlo Goldoni’s comedy A Servant To Two Masters is his most popular play. Based upon the Commedia Dell’Arte style of theatre, it has been translated and adapted internationally with at least nine versions in circulation. This version was translated by Lee Hall, best known as the writer of Billy Elliot. The plot revolves around Truffaldino, a man who is constantly hungry. When the opportunity presents itself, he becomes a servant to a second master, guaranteeing himself two dinners every day. Food is at the centre of his life as he races around Venice trying with increasing desperation to fulfill both masters’ wishes . To get the most out of this production I have three suggestions: Firstly, I’d suggest that you forget you are in a ‘theatre’ and imagine that you
are in Venice watching theatre on the street; secondly, do not expect subtlety, these are larger-than-life characters from a different age; thirdly, expect to laugh... a lot. The atmosphere is helped when you are greeted by ‘masks’ as you enter the hall and the music adds autheticity. Director Sheila Kay Sly has assembled a highly talented cast who obviously share her vision of the piece. She should be applauded for undertaking it. Equally, Belper Players deserve plaudits for backing the play. The Players have access to a rich vein of performers and this has been reflected in the quality and diversity of productions during the past few years. It is a golden period for them and A Servant To Two Masters continues the excellence. Larry Waller was in his element as Truffaldino. He
51
revelsed in the role which is both wordy and physical. His involvement with the audience certainly added to the feel of street theatre. I’m also going to single out Megan Gibson (Clarice) for a special mention. Her scene with the excellent Kay Swann (Smeraldina) in the First Act was a comic masterclass. And it was worth the price of admission to see Sarah Holme as the constantly chuntering waiter. The cast featured Ben Turner, Paul Davies, Jeremy Crane, Alyson Koe, Keren Adler, Josh Sly and Roger Whiting. Jamie Vella should be congratulated on the excellent lighting and sound and Alan Kennedy supplied the original music. A Servant To Two Masters was a glorious way to celebrate the Players’ birthday. George Gunby
attitude Sitwell Singers commission new
piece for 50th Sitwell Singers, Derby Cathedral The Sitwell Singers marked their 50th anniversary in style, by not only commissioning a new piece from Bob Chilcott, but getting him to conduct it, as well as others of his own pieces, beginning with his four Salisbury Motets, whose mood-progression was nicely captured. The new piece, Two Friends, sets words by Chilcott’s frequent collaborator, poet Charles Bennett, using a range of nature imagery as metaphors for human friendship. It is a fine work which will no doubt catch on with other choirs; in fact, it was given a second performance on the spot, as the evening’s encore. Other items were directed by the choir’s regular conductor Malcolm Goldring and assistant conductor Carolin Hlusiak, including music by Mendelssohn and Brahms. The vividly projected resonant eight-part textures of Mendelssohn’s Richte mich, Gott were nicely contrasted with the serenity of his increasingly popular Verleih’ uns Frieden. As well as giving the choir sterling support, organist Tom Corfield started the second half with an imposing account of Franz Schmidt’s Prelude and Fugue in D. Sinfonia Viva, Derby Cathedral Sinfonia Viva and principal
conductor Duncan Ward (pictured above) are cementing their relationship with Derby Cathedral with a series of four concerts this season. If they’re all as good as this first one, then we’ll be well satisfied. The players stood throughout, with the cello section raised up to a comparable eyelevel. The resulting gain in immediacy of sound was instantly appreciable. Haydn’s Symphony 22 was a stimulating opener. The muted strings in the first movement produced beautifully silky tone, with the gently nudging dissonances and tangy cor anglais contributions adding spice. Leader Ben Holland stepped forward as the soloist in Mozart’s Violin Concerto No 5. A sprightly opening movement, showcasing Holland’s bright, clear sound, was followed by courtly elegance in the second movement, and a finale marked by a fine swing to the rhythm, and real bite in the so-called ‘Turkish’ episode. The second half was taken up with a warmly affectionate reading of Dvořák’s Serenade for Strings. Over a post-concert drink-up, violinist Clare Bhabra and cellist Deirdre Benscik set
52
up by the west door to play a selection of tangos. It rounded the evening off beautifully. Derby Chamber Music: Richard Uttley, Multi-Faith Centre, Derby University Pianist Richard Uttley is becoming a familiar face at Derby Chamber Music. This was his third visit, and he’s due to return in March with violinist Savitri Grier. The shifting moods of Schumann’s Waldszenen (Forest Scenes) were vividly explored, from the playful and emphatic to the strange and creepy. He soon had the opening melancholy and sadness of Chopin’s Ballade No 1 turning volatile, while the second theme showed nobility, the waltz episode sparkled, and the final pages were full of ferocity. His reading of the Diabelli Variations will clearly grow and develop over the years, but he has certainly laid a firm foundation for the future, not least in his handling of Beethoven’s risk-taking contrasts, both between variations and sometimes within them. Mike Wheeler
attitude 1970s Girl Power message still
resonates today In the 1970s ‘the boys’ ruled the roost in the office and ‘the women’ were expected to make the tea, run errands and endure the more than amorous advances of their boss. Not surprising then that Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 with its Girl Power message was such a big hit when it first smashed on to the screen as a movie in 1980 and also later when it was adapted as a stage musical. More surprising is the sad fact that, almost four decades on, the scenario will still resonate with many women. We may have come a long way towards achieving the women’s wish list of flexible hours, workplace childcare and equal wages, but sexism and male domination of the boardroom still lurk in our society. Maybe that’s partly why the Good Companions Stage Society performance of the feel-good musical received such rapturous applause from the audience in Derby. The other reason will certainly be that the amateur performers staged a fabulous show with lively choreography, quality vocals and great music. There were a few first night niggles with sound and scenery, but the enthusiastic team overcame them all with big grins and the odd giggle. With so many scene changes there was bound to be a hiccup or two but most of the backstage work was amazingly slick.
The story revolves around three city secretaries who, pushed to boiling point by their sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical, bigot of a boss, Franklin Hart Jr, forge an uneasy alliance and live out their pot-fuelled fantasies to get rid of him Having kidnapped him and tied him up in his own home they return to the office to take charge and give their workplace a dream makeover. The story might be more than a little cheesy, but it is great fun and Dolly Parton’s tunes will have you toe-tapping in no time. The Girl Power trio were played by Deborah McPherson, as Violet Newstead the office ‘mother’ overlooked for promotion; Louise Simcox in the Dolly Parton role of Doralee Rhodes, the object of Hart’s desire and Anna Cousins, as the newbie to the office scene, Judy Bernly. All three gave strong confident performances and were well cast. Emma Woodyet, who played Roz Keith, the devoted assistant with more than a crush on her boss, also deserves a special mention
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– especially for her terrific rendition of Heart to Hart. Damon Hatton’s take on the slime-ball boss was an absolute scream and he delighted the audience with his hilarious solo Here For You, which involved a lot of pelvic thrusting. I suspect he wasn’t sorry when he didn’t have to make those moves any more. The rest of the huge cast were Andrew Buxton, Adam Woodyet, Louise Curd, Cameron Trail, Phil Stanley, Rob Chilton, Ellie Mallinson, Helen Perry, Ruth Plant, Josh Robinson, Angela Plant, Lisa Scott-Savage, Adela Green, Kit Jones, Clementine Morley, Cat Howourth, Sarah EvansBolger, Emily Cooper, Ollie Hand, Paul Brenham-Foster, Brian Counter, Scott Mill, Tricia O’Reilly, Gary Rowley and Charlie Torry. The director was Phil Simcox, the musical director was Dave Adey, the choreographer Pauline Reader and the stage manager was Steve Cole. The music and lyrics were by Dolly Parton and the book by Patricia Resnick. AP
attitude Atlas Obscura by Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras and Ella Morton Workman Publishing £25 Review by Les Hurst
Reading this book is like stepping
out into Narnia Atlas Obscura is a guide to many of the strange places – natural and man-made – on the planet, and when I say ‘manmade’ I mean they evidence the worldwide ingenuity of the human mind. The most incredible, perhaps, are the step-wells of India. Constructed from brick or stone going down tens of feet, if not a hundred or more, to pools where the water gathers and can be collected. In some cases, to maximise the number who can reach the water simultaneously, these wells descend from two or four sides. Realising the planning and
careful construction which went on hundreds of years ago, these wells still in use today makes one appreciate that civilisation has not advanced as much as we sometimes think. Did you know that there are more pyramids in Sudan, in just the one area of Meroe, than there are in the whole of Egypt? Constructed more than 500 years before the reign of Cleopatra and Mark Anthony
these were the tombs of the kings and queens of Nubia – a black civilisation of great wealth and power, which has almost been forgotten. Soon after westerners arrived on the Amazon they gave up searching for gilded cities, thinking that they had never existed rather than that they had been wiped out so quickly. Now discoveries such as the South American Stonehenge at Calcoene in Brazil is making archaeologists reconsider what the rainforests may hide. A big book, with many colour illustrations, Atlas Obscura is as good as entering a wardrobe and emerging in Narnia.
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December 2016 and
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agenda
Catch the best of the action across Derbyshire and the Peak District with artsbeat’s unbeatable what’s on listings Exhibitions and galleries
Art Café, Pavilion Gardens, Buxton Winter Sale, until January 8, Open every day except Christmas Day. End of season exhibition and sale, all items reduced in price. The gallery is up the spiral staircase and is open daily from 9.30am-4.30pm. Call 01298 23114 for details. Artcore, Charnwood Street, Derby Sharing Celebrations – go along and join in creative festive activities, and make a Christmas wish. Free refreshments will be provided. December 9, 4.30pm-7pm. For further information please email info@artcoreuk.com or call 01332 384561. Arc Leisure, Bakewell Road, Matlock Pop-up Christmas Shop with contemporary gifts and crafts from local makers. December 4, 10am4pm. Banks Mill Studios, Bridge Street, Derby Green Door Printmaking Studio – Seventy Years – a solo exhibition by founder and master etcher, Anna Johnson. A series of self-portraits created over the last 70 years at odd moments in time, in various media. Until January 4, Monday to Saturday 11am-5pm. Go to banksmill.co.uk for more details. Baslow Pottery, Ivy House, Nether End, Baslow The gallery displays original work from more than 20 local artists. Wednesday to Saturday, 10.30am5.30pm and 11am-5pm on Sundays and bank holidays. More details at baslowpottery.co.uk.
Dovedale by Ken Burton which will be part of the Christmas Exhibition of Peak District Landscapes at Derwent Gallery, Grindleford
Chatsworth House, Chatsworth Never A Bore, a collection of rarelyseen and intimate photographs of the late Dowager Duchess, Deborah Devonshire by Cecil Beaton, until January 3. Church Farm Art Gallery, Church Street, Baslow The gallery is a showcase for both professional and talented amateur artists. Owner Norman Tomlinson, who paints mainly in watercolour, exhibits his own work and work by others such as Caroline Appleyard, David Alderman, Mike Connley and Richard Towers. Open ThursdaySaturday 10.30am-5pm. On other days ring the bell or telephone 01246 582334. Go to churchfarmgallery. co.uk for more details. Cromford Gallery and Studio, Market Place, Cromford The featured artists during December are gallery owner Martin Sloman and Belper's Ruth Gray who will both be showing a range of their latest works.The featured makers
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are: Andrea Leigh, Justine Nettleton, John Wheeldon, Tim Haslam and Pixalum Jewellery. There will be late night openings on December 2 and 9 and the gallery's annual Christmas Open Day on December 17 with mince pies and wine and the chance to talk to the featured artists. The gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday 10am-5pm. Go to cromfordstudioandgallery. weebly.com for details. Cromford Mills, Cromford The Gallery n A Medley of Arts and Crafts, December 3-8, 10am-4pm, featuring work by Chantal Kelly who creates colourful stained glass decorative art panels, painter Ruth Gray, potter Richard Pearson and jeweller Janice Allen.There will be wooden children's toys by PJ Kelly and felt textiles by Anne Alldread n Derbyshire Woodcrafts, December 4,10am4pm,demonstrations of wood turning and woodcarving. n Christmas Artisan Market,
agenda Saturday December 10 and 11,10am-4pm. Go to cromfordmills.org.uk for further details or phone 01629 823256 Claim to Frame, 26 Market Place, Bolsover, Chesterfield Original artwork by Derbyshire artist John Connolly is exhibited at this framing studio. The Derwent Gallery, Main Road, Grindleford Christmas Exhibition – White Peak Dark Peak, landscape paintings by various artist including Kristan Baggaley, Gareth Buxton and Ken Burton, until January 8. The gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays 11am-4pm. Go to derwentgallery.com for more details. Déda, Chapel Street, Derby UK Young Artists until December 24. More details at deda.uk.com Etienne Gallery at In The Flow, Crown Square, Matlock For the latest exhibitions go to jasonetienne.com Ferrers Gallery, Staunton Harold Estate, Ashby de la Zouch Christmas Past and Presents – until December 24. Old favourites return to the three floors of the gallery to give you plenty of inspiration and joy for the festive season. For details go to ferrersgallery.co.uk Foxlowe Arts Centre, Market Place, Leek Staffordshire Contemporary Artist and Designer Fair, December 3 and 4, 10am-4pm. Free admission. More details on page 29 and at foxloweartscentre.co.uk Gallery in the Gardens, Buxton The gallery showcases the work of more than 40 artists and craftspeople from the High Peak Artists group. Open daily, 9.30am5pm. Details at galleryinthegardens. co.uk Gallerytop, Chatsworth Road, Rowsley
Hazel Lale is exhibiting at Ingleby Gallery
The gallery's Christmas exhibition has a range of paintings, limited edition prints, ceramics and glass. There is also a great selection of designer jewellery. The gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday 10am5pm and Sunday 11am-4pm. More details at gallerytop.co.uk The Gallery, High Street, New Mills The gallery is run collectively by 30 artists and showcases a variety of work including paintings, jewellery, silk scarves, ceramics and feltwork. Open 10-4pm. Closed Wednesday and Sunday. The Green Man Gallery, Buxton n The Colours of Winter – until December 24. A new joint exhibition of paintings, photography, prints, mixed media and textiles exploring the colours of the season by The Green Man resident artists. n Winter Emporium – until December 24. A transformed space inspired by winter traditions, stories and celebrations. n There is art by the Green Man's resident artists throughout the gallery including a wide range of mounted prints and cards. There are ceramics, jewellery and items in wood and glass by guest designer makers in the ground floor shop. The gallery will be closed from 2pm on December 24 until January 6. For details see the gallery’s facebook page, greenmangallery.com or contact hello@thegreenmangallery. com or 07977 956707.
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Hall of Frames, King Street, Belper Original and limited edition artwork from a variety of artists. More details at hallofframes.co.uk Ingleby Gallery, Ingleby Vibrant Colour by Hazel Lale, until December 4. The paintings of street scenes, figurative work, flowers and landscapes are vibrant with colour irrespective of the subject matter with light falling on pattern, a gesture, a discordant colour and a memory which fits a fleeting image. The gallery is open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 10am-5pm and weekends from noon-5pm. Go to ingleby-gallery.co.uk for details. Jarva Gallery, Market Street, Whaley Bridge Christmas Exhibition until Christmas Eve. Original artwork and sculture from British artists and designers, plus a beautiful gift range for the home. The gallery is a stockist for Emma Bridgewater ceramics. Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 9.30am-5pm and on Saturdays from 9.30am-4pm. More details at jarvagallery.com. John Connolly's Ormscliffe Gallery, 16 Langwith Road, Bolsover Open Studio and Winter Sale, December 10-January 30. More than 300 original paintings with up to 75 per cent off the original price. Go to connollyart.com for more details. Kunst Gallery, The Old Nail Shed, Campbell Street, Belper Contemporary work and 1970s screenprinted posters. The gallery is open on Friday and at the weekends. Leabrooks Gallery, Somercotes Gifts from the Arts – an exhibition of contemporary work to give you inspiration for your festive gifts, until December 24. The gallery is open from Monday to Saturday, 10am-5pm and 11am4.30pm on Sundays. Wednesdays by appointment only. Details at leabrooksartscomplex.com
agenda Little London Gallery, Church Street, Holloway New prints by David Harban and Paul Hipkiss – Paintings by Chris Tkacz, Carol Hill and John ScottMartin, Textiles by Jacqui Wakeley and Ceramics by Andrew Metheson will be on exhibition at Little London Gallery throughout December. These artists are all members of the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists and exhibit widely across the country. The gallery is open from 9am-5pm Wednesday to Saturday. For details go to littlelondongallery.co.uk Louise Jannetta Gallery and Studio, Dale Road, Buxton Christmas Fine Art Exhibition every Saturday until December 17, 10am4pm. Go to louisejannetta.co.uk for more details about Louise and her work. Matlock Artists Society, All Saints Church Hall, Smedley Street, Matlock Matlock Artists Society welcome all to an acrylics demonstration by artist Steve McLoughlin on Saturday January 21, 10.am -12pm. Admission is £5 and includes refreshments. For details telephone 01629 584708.
Caroline Small's work can be seen at the Colours of Winter exhibition at the Green Man Gallery, Buxton
Tony Hall's iPad drawings are part of the exhibition at the Old Station Gallery, Rowsley
The Marlow Gallery, The Close, Church Square, Melbourne Winter Exhibition, November 26-December 20. A mixed show of contemporary paintings, ceramics, sculpture and glass. Open house December 3 and 17, 12noon to 4pm. At other times email Emily at studio@themarlowgallery.co.uk or phone her on 07980550812. More information on their facebook page and at themarlowgallery.co.uk The Mustard Seed Café, Market Street, Chapel-en-le-Frith Art and craftwork from seven local professional artists. There are a range of original paintings and prints, hand-made glassware and textiles, organic cosmetics and cards, all at affordable prices and much of it unique. Open mornings, Monday to Saturday. North End Gallery, North End Institute Building, Wirksworth Contemporary art and gifts. The gallery is above North End Nostalgia and is open Thursday to Saturday from 10am-4pm. Email northendnostalgia@yahoo.co.uk No28, Market Place, Belper Shine In Belper – Artists and Makers Christmas Fair November 25, 6pm8.30pm and November 26, 10am-
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5pm featuring work by Richard Bett, Kate Brooks, Jo Bunbury, Claire Duberry, Lisa Green, Gwin Kerry, Phils Forge and Treecreepers. Go to facebook.com/twentyeightbelper for more details. The Old Station Gallery, Peak Shopping Village, Rowsley n Winter Show until January 7. The work within the exhibition will show a diverse array of work including the stunning atmospheric paintings of Alison Tydlesley which depict landscapes of the Derbyshire Peak District, Rob Chapman's intricate woodcut prints and Tony Hall's beautiful Pink Flowers iPad drawings. Other artists included in the show are Ann Bates, Rachel Carter, Sarah Fiander, Steve Gresham, Michelle Keegan and Kerri Pratt. n Makers@OSG – A Christmas Pop-up Shop, November 30-December 24. The gallery is open Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday from 11am-4pm. There will be late-night shopping on December 2, 9 and 16 from 6-9pm. Check for any updates at theoldstationgallery. wordpress.com Opus Gallery, St John Street, Ashbourne The featured artist for December is Giuliana Lazzerini with new paintings and linocuts. The artist was born in Tuscany and moved to Yorkshire, in 1987 and now lives in York. The Tuscan landscape and childhood memories still bear a strong influence upon the artist's current work. Go to opusgallery ashbourne.com for more details. Patchings Arts Centre, Calverton n Crew Yard Gallery – The Art of Christmas, until December 24. n Barn Gallery – Patchings A5 Christmas Exhibition December 3-24. n Pavilion Gallery – 62nd Annual Exhibition of The North and East Midlands Photographic Federation, January 7-February 12.
agenda Peak District Artisans, Chatsworth House A showcase of work by 31 artists and makers, January 6 to March 17. For more details go to page 29 or peakdistrictartisans.co.uk Pots and Pix, Bankfield, Chase Road Ambergate This annual pre-Christmas At Home Open Studio event is a selling exhibition of Liz Tatam's stoneware ceramics, made and fired in her Canalside Studio at Ambergate. In addition, Friends of Cromford Canal's archivist Hugh Potter will be putting on a display of historic photographs and slide shows featuring the Cromford Canal through the ages. November 26 and 27 between 11am and 5pm. Further details and directions at canalsidepotters.co.uk. Pollyanna Pickering, Brookvale House, Oaker, Matlock The Dawn of Time – an exhibition celebrating British wildlife through the ages, until December 4. QUAD Derby teamLab's three-screen sublime interactive, computer generated immersive installation, What a Loving, and Beautiful World, will premiere in the UK at QUAD. More details on page 28. Go to derbyquad.co.uk for more details. River's Edge Gallery, Hope Valley Garden Centre, Bamford Original Landscape, Abstract and Still Life Fine Art. The gallery, which has work by several artists including Pauline Rignall, Richard Clare, Kristan Baggaley, Duncan Friend and Janet Bassindale, will be open every day except Monday. Read more about the couple who have opened the gallery on page 17. Go to riversedgegallery.co.uk for more details. The Richard Whittlestone Wildlife Gallery, Pilsley, near Chatsworth Richard Whittlestone Wildlife Gallery is home to the artist’s stunningly detailed paintings of popular
Martin Sloman's work will be on show at his festive open day at his gallery on Cromford's Market Place on December 17
native wildlife and exotic big game. HIs winter exhibition is on until December 4. This year marks the 40th year since Richard sold his first painting in 1976. The front cover of this month's magazine features one of his paintings – Cold Feet. The gallery is open 10am-5pm Tuesday to Saturday. More details at richardwhittlestone.co.uk The Silver Tree Gallery, Carriage House, Mill Lane, Cromford Paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles and interior objet d'art. Currently exhibiting: Peter Stanaway, David Barnes, Richard Clare, Rosa Sepple VPRI, Annabel Thornton SWA, Jiri Borsky, John Thompson (1924-2011), Paul Robinson, John Lines RMSA, Ron Coleman, Alison Tyldesley and textile artist Jo Hill. More details at silvertreegallery.co.uk Smoothie Art Gallery, Ilkeston More than 20 local artists displaying a wide selection of original paintings, prints and photographs. For more details go to uchoosesmoothie.co.uk St John Street Gallery, St John Street, Ashbourne Wildlife artist Wendy Darker is
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staging a Christmas Exhibition at the gallery. For more details turn to page 29. The gallery is open 9.30am-5pm, Monday to Saturday. For more information go to stjohngalleryandcafe.co.uk Sir Richard Morris Lounge, Cathedral Centre, Derby In My Mind's Eye by Sarah Sharpe, December and January. You can read more about Sarah and her work on page 9. Monday to Saturday 9am-5pm, closed Sundays and Bank Holidays. Tarpey Gallery, High Street, Castle Donington Nottingham artist Nick Hedderly is the featured artist until December 18. The gallery is open Thursday to Sunday 10am-5pm. More information at tarpeygallery.com Two Birds Gallery, Borough Street, Castle Donington Art, photography, jewellery and design from a wide range of local and UK based artists. They also offer a selection of craft workshops for all ability levels. Open Monday to Friday, 9.30am-5pm and 9.30am4pm on Saturday. West Studios, Sheffield Road, Chesterfield n Lily Hammond will be exhibiting her bold, vibrant work at the studios until December 3. n Spellbound: Myths and Legends, an exhibition of 32 new works many from first time artists, who have attended community art classes, organised by Eisner Award nominee Russell Wall in association with Sparky Ink Studios, a Chesterfieldbased community media and educational provider, until December 3. For details contact hello@ weststudios.co.uk. Whynot Gallery, Lichfield Street, Burton upon Trent Check out all the latest events, workshops and exhibitions on the gallery’s facebook page whynotgalleryuk
agenda Comedy
Buxton Opera House, Buxton n Buzz Comedy Club, David Whitney, Amy Howerska and Allan Finnegan, December 2, 8pm. n There will also be a Buzz Comedy Club on January 6, 8pm actsTBC. n Ruby Wax – Frazzled! A Guide to Mindfulness, January 22, 7.30pm. More information at buxtonoperahouse.org.uk Derby Theatre, Derby Ross Noble – Brain Dump, January 20, 8pm. Go to derbytheatre.co.uk for tickets. Furthest From The Sea, The Maypole Café, Bar and Theatre, Brook Street, Derby n Derby Comedy Writers' Club, December 5 and 19, a free meeting of minds to explore ideas and complete writing exercises together. Doors 7.30pm, 8pm start n Verbal Discharge Christmas Special, December 15, Doors 7pm, Performance 7.30pm. Go to furthestfromthesea.co.uk for more details. Funhouse Comedy, Blessington Carriage, Chapel Street, Derby Should I Stay or Should I go? Gong Show, December 5, 12 acts compete in comedy’s answer to Britain’s Got Talent and the X-Factor. Each does two minutes, then audience judges vote on who to keep on and who to send off. Compere Spiky Mike. No 28, Market Place Belper n Monthly Ship of Fools comedy night December 11, at 7.30pm. Go to the facebook page twentyeightbelper for up-to-date details.
Theatre
Buxton Opera House, Buxton n Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, December 10-January 1, more details on pages 21-25. n Talking Scarlet presentsThe Sound of Murder January 26,
Giuliana Lazzerini will be exhibiting new paintings at Opus Gallery in Ashbourne in December
7.30pm and January 27, 2.30pm n LipService Theatre Company present Mr Darcy Loses The Plot, January 29, 7.30pm. For ticket details go to buxtonoperahouse. org.uk Derby Theatre n Alice In Wonderland, a new adaptation by Mike Kenny, December 2-January 7. Read more about this on pages 21-25. n The Invincible, from The Original Theatre Company, January 31-February 4. Go to derbytheatre. co.uk for tickets. Derby Theatre Studio n Jack by Mike Kenny, a show for smaller children, December 6-31. Read more about it on pages 21-25. n I Used to Hear Footsteps, by Jack Brittain, January 27, 8pm. Go to derbytheatre.co.uk for tickets. Déda Derby Winter-Walker: The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, December 20, 11am and 6pm, December 21-23, 11am and 3pm. More details online at deda.uk.com Green Man Gallery, Buxton n Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs by Roald Dahl, December 14. Mad Hatters junior choir present the musical version of one of Roald
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Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes. Not quite the version you know but lots of fun. n The REC Youth Theatre: Winter Showcase, December 18, Monologues and improvised theatre performed by the junior company. n The REC Youth Theatre: Naughty Meg and the Christmas Elves, December 19. An adaptation of a show created by the Babbling Vagabonds Theatre Company, performed by the senior company. Contact the gallery for times and ticket prices: hello@ thegreenmangallery.com Guildhall Theatre, Derby n The Watson Players present Camelot the Panto, By Ben Crocker, January 17-22. n The Jungle Book from Oddsocks Theatre, January 31-February 4, Enjoy the comical adventures of Mowgli the man cub as he battles to survive and become the leader of the pack. Based on stories from The Jungle Book with a big helping of Oddsocks humour. For more details go to derbylive.co.uk Furthest From The Sea, The Maypole Café, Bar and Theatre, Brook Street, Derby Arletty Theatre presents Stinxville – Steampunk Circus meets an Anime Adventure, December 8-11, doors 7pm, Performance 7.30pm, tickets £8.50 OTD or in advance from Derby Live Live and Local, various locations n ShooShooBaby's Christmas Party. With heaps of musical wit and superb harmonies, this effortlessly funny double act (and their pianist) host an unashamedly sparkly Christmas party, with new arrangements of well-known songs and gorgeous unknown vintage gems. Ages nine plus, December 8, 7.30pm, St Helen's Parish Church,Stapleford. Telephone 01159 391 818 for tickets. n Oh Whistle And I’ll Come To You, the best-loved tale by the father of the modern ghost story M.R. James
agenda in a brand new stage adaptation by visionary playwright David Rudkin. Melbourne Assembly Rooms, Melbourne, December 1, 7.30pm. Telephone 01332 863522 for tickets. New Mills Art Theatre, New Mills Beauty and the Beast, January 27-29 and February 3-4. Book tickets online at ticketsource.co.uk/ arttheatrepantomime. If you want to discuss your ticket requirements further please telephone 07983 344 862 or email friendsofthearttheatre@ gmail.com.
Dance
Buxton Opera House, Buxton The Russian State Ballet of Siberia presents Swan Lake, December 5 and 6, 7.30pm and The Nutcracker, December 7, at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. For more details go to buxtonoperahouse.org.uk Déda Derby n Adam Pownall: Getting Better Slowly. When Guillain-Barré Syndrome affected Adam it caused full paralysis within days. Getting Better Slowly tells his inspiring story of recovery through new writing, sound and movement, December 12. n Scarlett Daggers and Déda: LaDéDa Christmas Cabaret, December 15 and 16. Add a touch of sparkle to your Christmas with a naughty but nice night out to remember. With Scarlett Daggers, Stage Door Johnny and a whole host of festive friends including Velma Von Bon Bon and Havana Hurricane. More details online at deda.uk.com
Spoken word
The Barley Mow, Bonsall Muse – an evening of lyrical delights is being hosted on the third Thursday of the month by poet and performer, Mark Gwynne Jones. For more details go to markgwynnejones.com Cromford Mill, Cromford Eva and the Christmas Pictures.
Enjoy this Christmas story written and illustrated by Thelma Knowlson. Suitable for both deaf and hearing children. It is a heartwarming tale for all the family to enjoy. The story will be both spoken and signed and there will be the opportunity to learn British Sign Language that features in the book. Thelma will also be signing copies. December 10 and 11 at 12noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Visit cromfordmills.org.uk for further details or phone 01629 823256 Derby Poetry Society December 9, The Poetry of George Orwell. Room 3, Friends’ Meeting House, Derby, 7.30pm. For any queries telephone Gina Clarke on 01773 825215. Furthest From The Sea, The Maypole Café, Bar and Theatre, Brook Street, Derby n LGB-QWERTY is a spoken word and variety night showcasing performers from Derbyshire’s LGBTQ plus community. December 2, doors 7.30pm, Performance 8pm. n Phrase Goblinz presents Beastiary – real people from Derby and beyond tell tales between heartfelt anecdotes and shaggy dog stories, December 5. n Word Wise #3 – Spoken word and poetry night uniting the best talent from around the UK and beyond, with Derby's finest performers. December 23, doors 7.30pm, Performance 8pm. Go to furthestfromthesea.co.uk for more details for all events. Green Man Gallery, Buxton Sir Gawain and the Green Knight – Poet Michael George Gibson performs this ancient tale using a mixture of storytelling and his own poetic translation of the original medieval manuscript, January 28 (TBC). Contact The Green Man Gallery for full details, times and ticket price: hello@ thegreenmangallery.com Matlock Storytelling Cafe A Showcase of Talent and Other
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Shenanigans. Friday December 2 sees Matlock Storytelling Cafe in celebratory mood. A showcase of emerging talent, many tellers with stories to share. All supported by our resident tellers. Matlock Storytelling Cafe takes place on the first Friday of each month at the Imperial Rooms in Matlock. Doors open at 6.30pm with stories at 7.30pm. More details on 01629 580023. Spring Bank Arts Centre, New Mills Ian McMillan and Luke Carver Goss, Words, Music, Glee and Delight, December 9, 7.30pm. Telephone 01663 308 202 for tickets. More details on page 16. Scrivener’s Bookshop, Buxton Storytelling Sundays: The free meetings will be held on the second Sunday of the month 2pm to 3.30pm, at Scrivener’s Books, 42 High Street, Buxton.Telephone 0129871622. U Choose Smoothie Bar, Bath Street, Ikeston Open Mic Poetry Night, 7-9pm the last Thursday of the month. More information on 01159 322263.
Cinema
Bakewell and Ashford Film Society n December 11, Christmas party and Hail Caesar. n January 8, Brooklyn. Medway Centre, Bakewell, 7.30pm. More details at bashfilms.org.uk Belper Ritz, Belper Go to ritz-belper.co.uk for up-to-date film information. Buxton Film, Pavilion Arts Centre Adult Life Skills, December 5; Juno, December 8; Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie, December 12; Elf, December 22: It's A Wonderful LIfe, December 23, 2.30pm; I Daniel Blake, January 9. All shown at 7.30pm unless stated. Further
agenda information from buxtonfilm.org.uk Calver Film, Village Hall, Calver Every second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm from September until May. Membership needed, details from 01433 630760. Hathersage Film Club, Hathersage Memorial Hall, Oddfellows Road Florence Foster Jenkins, December 2; The BFG, December 3. There will be films on January 27 and 28 titles TBC. Friday films 7.30pm, Saturday films, 11am. There are no films in November to accommodate the Hathersage Players performance of Oliver! from the 23rd-26th. More details at hathersagefilmclub.co.uk Holymoorside Film, Holymoorside Village Hall Films twice a month from September
to March (not December) Fourth Friday films at 7.30pm and Mid-week Movies at 8pm on Tuesdays. Go to holymoorsidearts.co.uk for details. New Mills Cinema@ SpringBankArts Every second and fourth Thursday at 7.30pm. Go to springbankarts.org. uk for details Peak Film Society, Partington Players Theatre Glossop Theeb, January 14. Films always 7.30pm on Saturdays.Full season ticket, £30. More details at peakfilmsociety.org QUAD, Derby QUAD has a selection of film screenings and events in December to celebrate Christmas and the holiday season. ‘Now Snowing at QUAD’ film season includes the
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Christmas classics Meet Me In St Louis, It’s A Wonderful Life plus Die Hard / Die Hard 2: Die Harder double Bill. For family audiences there will also be a special live version of A Christmas Carol by The Lost Boys, plus screenings of the animated film The Nightmare Before Christmas. Go to derbyquad.co.uk for details. Tideswell Cinema, George Inn, Tideswell n Dad's Army, December 13, 7.30pm. n Winter Special: double bill and meal The Third Man and Bridge of Spies, January 14, first film 4pm followed by meal and second film at 9pm. n The Boy Friend, January 26, 7.30pm.Go to tideswellcinema.com for more details. Tansley Film Community Cinema, Tansley Village Hall Bridge of Spies, December 6 and Room, January 3. Always the first Tuesday evening of the month. Go to tansleyfilm.org.uk for more details. Youlgrave Cinema, Youlgrave Village Hall, Holywell Lane Monthly September-May, usually on a Friday and at 7.30pm. Go to youlgrave.org.uk for details.
Miscellaneous
The Winter Wonderland at Derby Market Hall, Derby Visit Derby Market Hall for The Winter Wonderland – a month-long series of events featuring a wealth of traditional Christmas activities, local performances and interactive workshops. It will be on Friday December 2,9 and 16, 11am-3pm and December 3, 10, 17, 19 and 23, from 10am4pm. Go to furthestfromthesea.co.uk for more details for all events.ww
While every effort is made to ensure agenda listings are accurate and up-to-date readers are advised to check with the venue before travelling, as no responsibility can be accepted for changes to programmes, errors or omissions
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contemporary fine art and creative hub Original paintings, drawings, prints, ceramics, photographs, textiles, mixed-media, jewellery and other locally made unique gifts for sale. A varied programme of exhibitions, workshops, art events and live music. Large workshop space for hire. ...and from November 26th to December 24th our
a cornucopia of locally handmade original & affordable art and gifts
open 10.30am - 5.30pm every day except Thursday Hardwick Hall, Hardwick Square South, Buxton SK17 6PY 01298 937375 07977 956707 thegreenmangallery.com hello@thegreenmangallery.com
A Unique Christmas Shopping Destination Gallery – Café Workshops – Shops Live Music
December 4th and 11th full details on website
Set within the picturesque location of Staunton Harold the Ferrers Centre is home to numerous working craft workshops as well as the Ferrers Gallery, tearoom, deli and artisan bakery, together with paint a pot, hair and beauty studios and various great walks. Open Tuesday - Sunday 11-4pm, closed Mondays. Please check website for individual workshop times. Ferrers Centre for Arts and Crafts, Staunton Harold, LE65 1RW Just five minutes from Melbourne on the B587
www.ferrerscentre.co.uk
ferrers centre for arts and crafts
www.facebook.com/ferrerscentre
A Derby Theatre & Octagon Theatre Bolton Production
The award-winning and hugely popular comedy drama
Friday 17 February – Saturday 11 March Box Office 01332 593939 Book Online derbytheatre.co.uk
Derby Theatre is part of