ARTS

By Julie LockeARTS

VISUAL ART

Until Saturday 26 February from 10.00am to 5.00pm at ACEarts, Somerton, there is an exhibition ‘Hope Emerging’ by Tara Kennedy. Textile sculptures and wall art inspired by an emotional response to different cultures and religions suffering in conflict. Important messages of acceptance, empathy and hope are shown emerging from this pain. Coloured yarns provide a metaphor expressing the transformation from blood spilt and the pain of suffering through graduated tones to ivory conveying hope. Open: Tuesday to Saturday. For further information, call 01458 273008 or visit www.acearts.co.uk.

Until Monday 28 February from Monday to Saturday from 5.30pm to 8.00pm at the Nationwide Branch, Yeovil, there is a digital window projection on display. The projection artwork was created by artist Richard Tomlinson and creative educator Natasha Rand, working with students from Buckler’s Mead Academy and Young Artist Yeovil, a group of young creatives aged 13-17. Anyone can join Yeovil Window Wanderland and create a window display any time of the year! Yeovil Window Wanderland 2022 was organised by Yeovil Art Space in partnership with Love Yeovil. www.yeovilartspace.uk. www. loveyeovil.com.

Until Tuesday 1 March from 10.00am to 5.30pm at David Simon Contemporary Art Gallery, Castle Cary, there is an exhibition ‘Impressions on Paper’ which will include works by some of the most significant names in modern British art, and coincides with a major exhibition of Francis Bacon: Man & Beast at the Royal Academy. A fine collection of original, signed works on paper by Francis Bacon, is exhibited alongside work by Lucien Freud, David Hockney RA, Henry Moore, John Nash, Ben Nicholson, Graham Sutherland, figurative engravings by Maynard Hales, and characteristic still life and interiors by Steven Hubbard. Open: Monday to Saturday (closed on Wednesday and Sunday). For more information, call 01963 359102 or visit www. davidsimoncontemporary.com.

Until Saturday 5 March from 9.30am at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is the annual ‘Schools go Visual IX’ exhibition, featuring the amazing creative talents of the pupils at schools in and around South Somerset. Taking part: Chard School, Greenfylde, Neroche, Swanmead and Stanchester Academy. Free entry. All welcome. Open: Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm and Saturday 9.30am to 3.00pm (closes at 1.00pm on the final day of the exhibition). For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

Until Monday 2 May at Hauser & Wirth Somerset, Bruton, there is an exhibition of works by Ida Applebroog. The exhibition ‘Right Up To Now 1969-2021’ consists of highlights from the artist’s largest retrospective to date at Museo Reina Sofía, Madrid, alongside important new works created over the past year. Throughout her career, Ida Applebroog has consistently explored the interconnected themes of power, gender, politics, and sexuality. Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 10.00am to 4.00pm. To visit the exhibition, book a timed reservation at www.hauserwirth.com/hauserwirth-exhibitions.

From Saturday 5 March to Saturday 2 April from 10.00am to 5.00pm at ACEarts, Somerton, there is an exhibition ‘Six of the Best’. Sebastian Chance, Tom Clark, Heather Fallows, Nina Gronw-Lewis, Frank Martin and Ricky Romain were brought together by ACE founding trustee Frank Martin to showcase current contemporary art practice in the South West now. There’s an opportunity to meet the artists on Saturday 5 March from 2.00pm to 4.00pm. Open: Tuesday to Saturday. For further information, call 01458 273008 or visit www.acearts. co.uk.

From Saturday 5 March to Saturday 2 April from 10.00am to 5.00pm at ACEarts, Somerton, there is an exhibition ‘Chaos and Order: Adventures in Clay’ by Jane King. This is a collection of dynamic ceramic sculptures, many made especially for this exhibition, which combine opposites of form, texture and colour as metaphors for perfection and control versus imperfection and chaos. Vivid, flat acrylic surfaces contrast with muted, messy or collapsing sections that express the contrast between how one would like life to be with how it really is. Open: Tuesday to Saturday. For further information, call 01458 273008 or visit www.acearts.co.uk.

From Tuesday 8 to Saturday 26 March from 9.30am at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is an exhibition by Art Textiles: Made in Britain entitled ‘Found’. This exhibition showcases the diversity of British art textiles and celebrates the wealth of textile talents based in this country. Art Textiles: Made in Britain is an exhibiting group of professional artists and comprises ten internationally renowned textiles artists based in the UK. Free entry. All welcome. Open: Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm and Saturday 9.30am to 3.00pm (closes at 1.00pm on the final day of the exhibition). For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www.ilminsterartscentre. com.

From Tuesday 29 March to Saturday 16 April from 9.30am at Ilminster Arts Centre, it is the Yeovil Art Group’s Spring Exhibition. This is the group’s first exhibition at the Arts Centre. Works by this exciting group of multi-talented artists will include paintings in acrylics, oils, pastels and watercolours, and sculptures – something for everyone. Free entry. All welcome. Open: Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm and Saturday 9.30am to 3.00pm (closes at 1.00pm on the final day of the exhibition). For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www.ilminsterartscentre. com.

MUSIC

On Friday 25 February at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, is Toyah’s Posh Pop Tour. This is a unique chance to experience Toyah up close and personal with a show that has a lively cinematic sound using Toyah’s vocals, keyboards, stand-up bass and storytelling. It will include Toyah performing her hit singles and classic songs, alongside recalling stories from her colourful, forty-year career. Tickets £22. Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137). On Friday 25 February at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, it’s The Sound of BlueNote. The band features some of the most prominent jazz musicians in the South West, recreating songs and arrangements that define the BlueNote Records sound of the 1950s and 60s. The Sound of BlueNote comprises leader Terry Quinney (saxophone), Andy Urquhart (trumpet), Phil Doyle (piano), Ben Taylor (bass), Andy Chapman (drums) and guest Mark Nightingale on trombone. Tickets £18. To book, please email musicbookingsIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Saturday 26 February at 7.30pm at Charlton Horethorne Village Hall, there’s a chance to see Flats and Sharps, one of the UK’s most prestigious Bluegrass outfits. Their shows include a wide variety of influences, from a fresh and modern outlook on footstomping Bluegrass material

through to their powerful and well-crafted original songs; their music perfectly blends strong harmonies and solos. The group’s incredible stage presence and energy create an evening that’ll have the audience dancing, laughing and singing along in no time. Bar with card facilities available. Limited numbers. Tickets £10. To book, call 01935 814199, email jb@classicmedia.co.uk or visit www.takeart.org.

On Saturday 26 February at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, experience the music of The Moody Blues live in ‘Go Now!’. Gordy Marshall (toured and recorded with The Moody Blues for twenty-five years) and Mick Wilson (lead singer of 10CC for twenty years) recreate the elegance of a Moody Blues concert. In this show, all the classic hits are celebrated, including ‘Nights in White Satin’, ‘Go Now’, ‘Tuesday Afternoon’, ‘Isn’t Life Strange’ plus ‘Forever Autumn’ and a show-stealing rendition of ‘Eve of the War’ from Jeff Wayne’s The War of the Worlds. Joining Gordy and Mick on stage are Tim Maple, Malcolm Moore and Patrick Duffin. Tickets £22. Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

On Sunday 27 February at 7.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, there’s an evening of fantastic music performed by Peter Knight and John Spiers. In 2016, the organisers of FolkEast Festival masterminded one of the most intriguing and exciting collaborations on today’s folk scene – legendary fiddle player Peter Knight, part of Steeleye Span’s classic 1970s line-up, was paired with leading melodeon player and Bellowhead cofounder, John Spiers, for a special one-off performance which left audiences in awe. Book early! Tickets £19, concessions £18. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com.

On Monday 28 February at 7.30pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, Armonico Consort’s Baroque players with international violinist Rachel Podger perform The Four Seasons (Vivaldi) and Stabat Mater (Pergolesi). The Four Seasons comprises four separate violin concertos each of which is based around a poem depicting each season, the vibrant melodies and virtuosity have made it one of the most exciting pieces of music to see and hear live. Stabat Mater is a beautiful musical meditation on suffering and redemption, written by the 26-year-old composer in the final weeks of life. Tickets £23.50, concessions £22, student/child £15. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagontheatre.co.uk.

On Friday 4 March at 7.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Concerts in the West presents Alasdair Beatson and the Eusebius Quartet. Alasdair (piano) and the Eusebius Quartet comprising Beatrice Philips (violin), Venetia Jollands (violin), Hannah Shaw (viola) and Hannah Sloane (cello) will play works by Korngold, Elgar and Fauré – for the full programme, visit www.concertsinthewest. org. Tickets £18, students £5, under 12s (accompanied by a paying adult) free. To book, call the Box Office (01460 54973) or book online at www. concertsinthewest.org.

On Saturday 5 March at 7.30pm at The Dance House, Crewkerne, Concerts in the West presents Alasdair Beatson and the Eusebius Quartet. Alasdair (piano) and the Eusebius Quartet comprising Beatrice Philips (violin), Venetia Jollands (violin), Hannah Shaw (viola) and Hannah Sloane (cello) will play works by Korngold, Elgar and Fauré – for the full programme, visit www.concertsinthewest.org. Tickets £18, students £5, under 12s (accompanied by a paying adult) free. Tickets available from Tourist Information Centre (01460 75928) or Concerts in the West (01823 252658 or book online at www. concertsinthewest.org).

On Saturday 5 March at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, it’s Cut Capers plus support Potts and Jammin – a ‘Chance to Dance’ event. Cut Capers is a sensational ninepiece band whose energetic live performance and infectious sound has won them a cult following on the British festival scene. Mixing a swinging vintage-style brass section with funk, soul and hip-hop, they have, over the years, established themselves as a formidable live outfit, playing regular headline shows at venues throughout the country, and main stage performances at many of the UK’s biggest festivals. Tickets £18, concessions £17. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com.

On Friday 11 March at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, listen to traditional jazz at its best with The Dart Valley Stompers. This band plays exciting music in traditional and New Orleans styles, and performs regularly to capacity audiences at jazz clubs and festivals in the UK and abroad. The front line features Jeremy Huggett (clarinet, tenor sax, soprano sax, and vocals), Graham Trevarton (trumpet and vocals) and Ron Milford (trombone and vocals). The hard-driving rhythm section includes Howard Williams (banjo and guitar), Tony Mann (double bass) and Chris Stockings (drums). Guaranteed to get feet tapping and stomping – definitely a must for traditionalists! Tickets £18. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Saturday 12 March at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, one of the most talented and prolific singersongwriters in the country, Steve Knightley, returns with a top quality show. Steve is a multiaward-winning singer-songwriter, musician and founder member of widely acclaimed folk/acoustic roots trail-blazers, Show of Hands. A constant throughout his work in his ability to root his song in geographical place, notably the West Country where he still lives. Informed by love of traditional folk song, Steve writes historically accurate songs that resonate with contemporary meaning. Certain to sell out!! Tickets £21. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www. thedavidhall.com.

On Sunday 13 March at 3.00pm at Cheap Street Church, Sherborne, there is a Wessex Strings concert. Programme includes: Orchestral Suite in B minor (Bach), Ancient Airs and Dances (Respighi), Lyric Andante (Reger), Liebeslieder-Waltzes Op 52 (Brahms), Choros No.1 (VillaLobos) and Angelus! Prière aux anges gardiens (Liszt). Tickets £10 (cash only) from Winstone’s, On Thursday 17 March at 7.30pm at All Saints Church, Martock, there is a concert by HMS Heron Volunteer Band. The concert includes popular classics, overtures, film music, selections from West End shows, military marches and contemporary works. Tickets £12 or £ 10, available from 07790 225357, Martock Gallery or Martock Newsagent. For more information, visit www. hmsheronband.co.uk.

On Thursday 17 March at 7.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, all the way from the USA, it’s The Three Degrees! The group was formed in 1963 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and remains a trio with two original members, Helen Scott and Valerie Holiday. They are known around the world for hits including ‘When will I see you again’, ‘Dirty Ol’ Man’, ‘Take good care of yourself’ and many more. The Three Degrees have been touring for more than 40 years and still tour to this day. With soulful voices, beautiful gowns and a fabulous stage show – this will be an unmissable night with these superstar legends! Tickets £24.50. Box office 01935 422884. www.westlandsyeovil. co.uk.

On Friday 18 March at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Bath Baroque will play works by JS Bach, Vivaldi and Telemann – for the full programme, visit www.ilminsterartscentre.com. Bath Baroque is a ten-piece ensemble comprising Lucy Hewson, Jamie Hughes, Ruth O’Shea (violins), Tim Robb (viola), Linda Stocks (cello), Bethan Foister (bass), Leslie Sheills (flute), James Watts (oboe and recorder), Neil Moore (recorder) and Jacquelyn Bevan (harpsichord) – all professional working musicians with wide orchestral experience. With their very lively style, they have rapidly established themselves as the leading Baroque ensemble in the South West. Tickets £20. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

with conductor Paul Ellis and an ensemble of Baroque strings and sackbuts to enjoy the genius of JS Bach. The Spring Baroque programme includes two motets and a cantata by Bach, always a favourite of the choir, and the multi-part Requiem in F by Heinrich Biber, who spent his career writing for the vast spaces and musicians of Salzburg Cathedral. Tickets £5-£18, under 18s free, available from www. sherbornechamberchoir.org.uk.

On Saturday 19 March at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, there is a performance by acclaimed guitarist and composer, Clive Carroll. Clive has created a sound world all his own, with a signature blend of warmth and humour that belies his dazzling technical skill. His masterful compositions feature influences from the delicate cadences of Elizabethan lute classics, the imaginative eccentricity of Frank Zappa, visionary classical composers such as Bartok and Ligeti, plus hints of jazz and Delta Blues! Tickets £15, concessions £14. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com.

On Thursday 24 March at 7.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, see Barbara Dickson in concert with her exceptional band as part of her extensive UK ‘Time Is Going Faster’ tour. Barbara emerged from the Scottish folk revival of the 1960s to become the biggest selling Scottish female album artist of all time. She enjoyed chart success in the 70s and 80s with hits including ‘Answer Me’, ‘Another Suitcase in Another Hall’, ‘The Caravan Song’ and ‘I Know Him So Well’. As a multi-million selling recording artist with an equally impressive acting career, Barbara has long since cemented her status as one of the UK’s best-loved performers. Tickets £25.50, concessions £24. Box office 01935 422884. www. westlandsyeovil.co.uk.

On Friday 25 March at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there’s an evening of modern jazz from two of the UK’s top tenor sax players, Karen Sharp and Simon Spillett, together with the Craig Milverton Trio. Simon and Karen have featured in the UK jazz awards many times over the last ten years or more. They have worked together frequently, toured widely and have regularly played with top US stars such as Scott Hamilton and Ken Peplowski, as well as with the best UK performers. Tickets £18. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Saturday 26 March at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, The Wild Murphys will set up Murphy’s Pub for ‘One Night in Dublin’, guaranteeing a glorious night of high-energy Irish music. The multi-award-winning band features the very best traditional Irish musicians: lead singer Middi Murphy, armed with blarney, banter and an accordion, alongside Trevor Brewis on drums, Tony Davis on keys and Sophy Ball on fiddle. The Wild Murphys will be playing a thrilling mix of traditional and contemporary tunes guaranteed to have the audience’s hands clapping and toes tapping all night long. Tickets £21. Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137). On Saturday 26 March at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, come along and listen to Edwina Hayes. Her beautifully written songs, charming stage presence and voice of an angel have won her a reputation as a true natural talent of gentle Folk-Americana. She has opened numerous shows for Jools Holland and Van Morrison as well as her own gigs playing stages everywhere from Glastonbury Festival to The Royal Albert Hall. The title track of her album Pour Me A Drink was covered by Nanci Griffith who calls her ‘the sweetest voice in England’. Tickets £15, concessions £14. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com. On Thursday 31 March at 7.30pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, the Hill Quartet will perform late quartet masterpieces by Mozart and Mendelssohn and two dramatic miniatures for string quartet by Puccini and Turina. The members of the quartet are Chamber Music Fellows at the Royal Academy of Music, with a 2021 residency at Snape Maltings. Tickets £15, concessions £13.50, student/ child £12. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagon-theatre. co.uk.

PERFORMANCE

On Thursday 24 February at 7.30pm at North Cadbury Village Hall, John Hegley performs ‘Peace, Love & Potatoes’. This show is about his family friends, working life and everyday goings on which resonates with audiences; the poems are poignant and funny. John began his performing career at London’s Comedy Store in 1980 and has since written a number of collections of poetry, ranging from the surreal through the humorous to the personal and emotional. There are a number of recurring themes, notably glasses, dogs and reminiscences of his childhood in Luton. Suitable 12+. Tickets £10. To book, call 01963 440338 or visit www. takeart.org.

On Thursday 24 February at 8.00pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, multi-award-winning comedian and actor Omid Djalili is on stage and bringing back ‘The Good Times’. Intelligent, always provocative, entertaining, Omid’s legendary stand-up performances are a captivating comedy masterclass. His credits range from Hollywood films to television and the West End stage. Suitable 16+. Tickets £26.50. Box office 01935 422884. www.westlandsyeovil. co.uk.

On Saturday 26 February at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, John Hegley performs ‘Peace, Love & Potatoes’. This show is about his family friends, working life and everyday goings on which resonates with audiences; the poems are poignant and funny. John began his performing career at London’s Comedy Store in 1980 and has since written a number of collections of poetry, ranging from the surreal through the humorous to the personal and emotional. There are a number of recurring themes, notably glasses, dogs and reminiscences of his childhood in Luton. Suitable 12+. Tickets £12, concessions £11. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www. thedavidhall.com.

On Thursday 3 and Friday 4 March at 7.30pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, comedy legends Jasper Carrott and Alistair McGowan split the bill with a night of comedy stand-up and impressions. Drawing on their wealth of experience they present a show of pure laughter and entertainment that is not to be missed. Tickets £31. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagontheatre.co.uk.

On Friday 4 March at 7.30pm at Nether Compton Village Hall, near Sherborne, the Notnow Collective theatre company performs ‘Pepper and Honey’. Croatian-born Ana, determined to make the UK her home, is haunted by the voice of her Grandma. As Grandma bakes traditional pepper biscuits, believed to bring a loved one back home, will this be enough to be reunited with Ana? What is the meaning of home? Live baking is intertwined with a story of what it is like to settle in a different country, leaving

Spring Baroque

Glorious German Baroque music from Biber to Bach, with period instrumentalists

Sherborne Chamber Choir

Sherborne Baroque Players Conductor Paul Ellis

Sherborne Abbey Saturday 19 March 7.30pm

Tickets £5-£18, under 18s FOC, available from www.sherbornechamberchoir.org.uk

and returning, and making and breaking family traditions. Timed to perfection, a perfect Croatian pepper biscuit is baked in front of and with the help of the audience. Tickets £10, under 18s £5, family ticket £25. To book, call 01935 815033 or visit www.artsreach. co.uk.

On Friday 4 March at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, turn back the clock to 1995 and be prepared to sing loud and proud in ‘Brit Pop Live’, a theatre show unlike any other! The 90s, the clothes, the scene and the sounds, it’s all here. Oasis to Blur, Ocean Colour Scene to Pulp, Suede to Kula Shaker – the sounds that shaped a generation. Tickets £20. Book online at www.sturexchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

Pepper and Honey

On Sunday 6 March at 3.00pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, come along for ‘Tea with William Barnes’. Dialect poet William Barnes relished the country dances, folksongs and carols of Dorset, and often wrote about community celebrations, where music was a key part of the proceedings. This spring the Ridgeway Singers and Band, led by Tim Laycock and Phil Humphries and supported by The William Barnes Society and Artsreach, will celebrate the rich dialect of Dorset through music, song and poetry as they invite audiences to ‘Tea with William Barnes’. Ticket price (£12) includes a Dorset cream tea. Book online (at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or www.artsreach.co.uk) or via the box office (01258 475137). On Wednesday 9 March, Charity Theatre Trips is offering a fundraising coach trip to Bristol Hippodrome to see an evening performance of ‘The Lion King’. Pick-up points are Curry Rivel, Langport, Somerton, Street, Keinton Mandeville and Shepton Mallet; see website for departure times. Tickets £78/£108. Book online (www.charitytheatretrips.com), by email (charitytheatretrips@ btinternet.com) or by phone (01458 273085). Charity Theatre Trips has taken local folk to 262 major shows at Bristol Hippodrome since its launch in 2004, raising over £66,000 for local charities.

From Wednesday 9 to Saturday 19 March at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, YAOS productions present ‘Kinky Boots the Musical’. Young Charlie Price reluctantly inherits his father’s struggling shoe factory and must save the family business from bankruptcy. Along comes Lola, a fabulous drag performer, who needs sturdy stilettos for her act. Against all odds, Lola turns out to be the one person who can help Charlie. As they work together to ensure the factory becomes a success, they soon realise they can change people’s opinions and therefore change the world. Performance dates and times vary, so please check the website. Tickets £20, concessions £18. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagontheatre.co.uk.

From Monday 14 to Saturday 19 March at 7.45pm at The Swan Theatre, Yeovil, is a performance of Agatha Christie’s ‘Go Back for Murder’. After a wrongly convicted woman dies in prison, it is up to her daughter to recreate the scene of the crime and exonerate her memory. By studying each suspect’s testimony and the various inconsistencies between them, the drama arrives at a disturbing and terrible truth. Without doubt, a Christie classic! Tickets £12, concessions £11. To buy online, visit www.swan-theatre. co.uk. For more information, call 07500 376031.

On Friday 18 March at 7.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Multi Story Theatre Company performs ‘Hefted’. This play is told through nine stories embedded in the landscape, history and psyche of rural life, presented by four actors who conjure a score of characters between them, interspersed with song and a spectacular soundscape. All nine stories explore the notion of being ‘hefted’ – deeply connected to the land. The audience watches from two sides of the playing area: watching the watchers as well as the action. Suitable 14+ only. Tickets £12, concessions £11. Tickets available from The David Hall (01460 240340, www. thedavidhall.com) or online at www.takeart.org.

On Saturday 19 March at 7.30pm at Chilthorne Domer Village Hall, Multi Story Theatre Company performs ‘Hefted’. This play is told through nine stories embedded in the landscape, history and psyche of rural life, presented by four actors who conjure a score of characters between them, interspersed with song and a spectacular soundscape. All nine stories explore the notion of being ‘hefted’ – deeply connected to the land. The audience watches from two sides of the playing area: watching the watchers as well as the action. Suitable 14+ only. Ticket price (£17.50) includes a hot supper. Tickets available from 01935 840200 or online at www.takeart.org.

On Saturday 19 March at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, come and join one of the greatest party’s in town as ‘Forever in Blue Jeans’ celebrates many happy and successful years on the road. A perfect feast of entertainment with superb singers, dancers and musicians playing the best in country music and rock ‘n’ roll’. This bighearted show includes songs from Patsy Cline, Elvis Presley, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, plus many more. Tickets £22, concessions £20. Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137). From Monday 21 to Saturday 26 March at 7.30pm at the Sherborne Studio Theatre, Amateur Players of Sherborne present ‘Educating Rita’ by Willy Russell, directed by Graham Smith. The play follows the relationship between Rita (whose real name is Susan), a 26-year-old working class hairdresser from Liverpool, and Frank, a middle-aged university lecturer, during the course of a year. The two have an immediate and profound effect on one another. Tickets £10/£12 available from www. aps-sherborne.co.uk or 07786 070093.

On Friday 25 March at 7.30pm at Chetnole Village Hall, near Sherborne, award-winning comedian George Egg presents his unique and utterly absurd comedy show ‘DIY Chef’, packed with ingenious live cooking and laugh-out-loud stand-up. On doctor’s orders, George must change his diet, so his family have banned him from the kitchen and sent him to the shed. But George simply must keep cooking, and this unstoppable urge leads to inventive creations, innovative solutions and some seriously tasty food. Funny and inspiring, expect power tools, gardening equipment and office supplies to be repurposed and abused. Bar available. Recommended 14+. Tickets £10. To book, call 07966 177789 or 01935 873555 or book online www.artsreach. co.uk.

On Friday 25 March at 7.30pm at Penselwood Village Hall, Wincanton, see Hannah Kumari in ‘ENG-ER-LAND’. In 1996, 13-year-old Lizzie went to her first football game, Coventry v Manchester City, and fell in love with the beautiful game that day. She has been obsessed ever since. Then something happens to make her question her place in the stands. ‘ENGER-LAND’, written by Hannah, is an energetic play about ‘team’ identity: it blends storytelling, dance and music with themes of racism and lad culture. Supported by The Football Supporters’ Association and with public funding from Arts Council. Tickets £8, available from 01747 840680 or online at www.takeart.org.

George Egg – DIY Chef

Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change.

On Sunday 27 March from 7.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, it’s Acoustic Night. Petherton Arts Trust encourages budding artists of all genres to come to The David Hall and perform on a professional stage. Everyone has the opportunity to deliver for 10 to 15 minutes with full PA and lighting. Please prebook a performance slot or seat – don’t walk up on the night. To attend as a performer or audience member, email Chris Watts at folk@chriswatts.org or call 07715 501157. Suggested donations: performer £1, audience member £2. Please pay on the door. On Sunday 27 March at 8.00pm at Norton-subHamdon Village Hall, there is a performance of ‘Josephine’. Josephine Baker, the little girl from Missouri, became a twentieth-century icon – dancer, actor, spy and civil rights campaigner. Almost 50 years after her death, Café Josephine, a down-at-heel New York diner dedicated to her memory, faces closure. But nobody remembers Josephine – and she can’t allow that! With an inspired score, Charleston dancing and a hatful of historical figures, ‘Josephine’ follows one woman’s incredible journey from the St Louis slums via the bright lights of Paris onto the world stage. Suitable age 8+. Tickets £12, child £6. Tickets available from the village shop, www.takeart.org or John Bailey (01935 881227). On Wednesday 30 March at 7.30pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, there’s an evening with Pam Ayres. Pam has been making the nation laugh for almost five decades. She will be performing a selection of poems and stories, old and new, from her many books, including her latest, Pam Ayres on Animals. As well as regular TV appearances, Pam’s radio career includes six series of Ayres on the Air and many appearances on Just a Minute, and she is honoured to have appeared twice on Desert Island Discs. Tickets £27.50. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagontheatre.co.uk. On Thursday 31 March at 7.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, it’s Ed Gamble with his brand new comedy show ‘Electric’. After a sell-out tour of his house in 2020 (extended into 2021 due to popular demand), he is charged up and ready to flick the switch on another night of attention seeking. Ed has appeared on Mock the Week (BBC2), Live at the Apollo (BBC), The Russell Howard Hour (Sky), QI (BBC2), Would I Lie to You? (BBC1) and Sunday Mornings on Radio X alongside Matthew Crosby. Suitable age 14+. Tickets £21.50. Box office 01935 422884. www. westlandsyeovil.co.uk. Every first and third Monday from 7.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, come along for a Jazz Jam. These informal sessions generally involve a group of a dozen or so jazz-minded individuals of varying levels of ability. All instruments are welcome, as are vocalists. Give it a go, or just come and listen. £3 per session. For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www.ilminsterartscentre. com.

CHILDREN

On Thursday 24 February at 11.30am and 1.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, join Michael Loader for a hum and a buzz, buzz, buzz on a Bee Hunt, as he tells the story of a tireless worker bee looking for late autumn nectar. And he’ll need some help searching the grounds for signs of pollen and early buzzing bees! Michael tells an uplifting story of the abundance and generosity of nature – the moon, apple orchards and blossom – en route to the honeypot ending. Suitable for 4-8 year olds. Pre-booking not required: entrance is included with any valid entrance ticket. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111. On Saturday 19 March from 2.00pm to 3.00pm at Sherborne Library, there is a free themed crafts session ‘Spring into Spring’ for children aged 4+. Booking is essential – visit Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683. On Sunday 20 March at 10.00am at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, there is a ‘BSO On Your Doorstep: Time Together’ event – a magical sensory session for babies and new parents to experience music together. From bouncy time to sleepy time, musicians from the BSO will lead parents and babies on a fun, supportive journey of songs and music. Music making will be followed by a special interactive concert for young listeners by the BSO musicians. Come along for beautiful music, songs and fun! Older siblings are welcome to watch and listen. Suitable age 0 to 3 years. Tickets £6.50, child £3.50, babes in arms free. Box office 01935 422884. www. westlandsyeovil.co.uk. Every Tuesday from 10.00am to 10.30am at Sherborne Library, there’s a fun ‘Story Time’ session for children under 5. Booking is essential, so please call 01935 812683. Every Friday from 10.00am to 10.30am at Sherborne Library, it’s ‘Rhyme Time’ – songs and rhymes for children under 5. Booking is essential, so please call 01935 812683. Every Saturday from 9.30am to 12.00 noon at Sherborne Library, come along for some ‘Lego Fun’. The library supplies the Lego; the children supply the imagination!

2022 Children’s Short Story Writing Competition

Organised by Yeovil Community Arts Association (YCAA) and Yeovil Town Community Sports Trust (YTCST), this competition is open to year 5 and 6 pupils attending a South Somerset primary school or living in the South Somerset area. Write a short story of up to 500 words on the theme of ‘Discovery’ – an object, a truth, a secret, a new land, a species, a friend, a technology, a way of living – the possibilities are endless! Free to enter. The winning youngsters will receive either £30 or £15 in book tokens, and their school will receive £250 in book tokens and an additional prize donated by YTCST. Entries must be received by Friday 4 March 2022. Forms and further details are available from the www. yeovilarts.co.uk or by emailing childrenscomp@yeovilarts. co.uk.

Josephine Ed Gamble – Electric

AROUND THE TOWNS AND VILLAGES

DEATH ON THE NILE (12A)

Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirot’s Egyptian vacation aboard a glamorous river steamer turns into a terrifying search for a murderer when a picture-perfect couple’s idyllic honeymoon is tragically cut short. This tale of unbridled passion and incapacitating jealousy features a cosmopolitan group of impeccably dressed travellers, and enough wicked twists and turns to leave audiences guessing until the final, shocking denouement. Starring Kenneth Branagh, Tom Bateman and Annette Bening.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Monday 14, Tuesday 15, Wednesday 16 March, Westlands Entertainment Venue, 11.00am, 2.30pm,

7.00pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.

FACES PLACES (12A)

In 2017, the year of her 90th birthday, the late and iconic film-maker Agnès Varda undertook an unexpected collaboration with the French street-artist known as JR when the pair embarked on a road trip in his specially-adapted van. Together they explored the villages and small towns of rural France and met its residents - all the while creating large-scale murals across unconventional locations. The documentary is a heart-warming insight into unnamed communities, recorded in Varda’s typically playful and tender manner.

SHOWING AT Batcombe on Friday 18 March, Jubilee

Hall, 7.45pm. For information about Batcombe Film Society and for guest tickets, call 01749 850307. This film follows the journey of Richard Williams, a determined father instrumental in raising two of the most extraordinarily gifted athletes of all time. Driven by a clear vision of their future and using unconventional methods, Richard (Will Smith) has a plan that will take Venus and Serena Williams to the global stage as legendary icons. The profoundly moving film shows the power of family, perseverance and unwavering belief as a means to achieve the impossible.

SHOWING AT Hardington Mandeville on Thursday 24

February, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from Springfield Stores (01935 862363) or £6 on the door.

Norton-sub-Hamdon on Tuesday 8

March, The Lord Nelson, 7.30pm. Tickets from 01935 881227.

South Petherton on Friday 25 March,

The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340.

West Camel on Friday 25 March, The

Davis Hall, 7.30pm. Admission £5 on the door. Contact: 01935 851214.

Yetminster on Tuesday 1 March, Jubilee

Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6. Advance tickets: Spar Shop. Contact: 07770 806990.

MINARI (12A)

Set in the 1980s, a Korean-American family moves to an Arkansas farm in search of its own American dream. Amidst the challenges of this new life in the strange and rugged Ozarks, they discover the undeniable resilience of family and what really makes a home. Starring Steven Yeun, Yeri Han and Academy award-winner YuhJung Youn.

SHOWING AT Crewkerne on Friday 25 February,

Wadham School, 7.30pm. Membership £20. Visitors £5 per film. Contact: 07749 614048.

MOTHERING SUNDAY (15)

It is Mother’s Day in 1924. Mr and Mrs Niven give their housekeeper, Jane, the day off, as the couple are going to their neighbour’s house to celebrate his engagement. The truth is Jane and the neighbour, Paul, have been having an affair for some time. Jane secretly plans to meet with the man she loves before he leaves to marry another woman. Starring Colin Firth, Olivia Colman, Odessa Young and Josh O’Connor.

SHOWING AT Sturminster Newton on Thursday 24

March, The Exchange, 7.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01258 475137. In 1933, Welsh journalist Gareth Jones travels to Ukraine, where he experiences the horrors of a famine. Everywhere he goes he meets henchmen of the Soviet secret service who are determined to prevent news about the catastrophe from getting out. Stalin’s forced collectivisation of agriculture has resulted in misery and ruin. Starring James Norton, Vanessa Kirby and Peter Sarsgaard.

SHOWING AT Ilminster on Saturday 26 March,

Warehouse Theatre, 7.45pm. Annual membership £24. Donation requested from members’ guests. Contact: 01460 52285.

NIGHTMARE ALLEY (15)

An ambitious young carny (travelling carnival employee) with a talent for manipulating people with a few wellchosen words hooks up with a female psychiatrist who is even more dangerous than he is. Starring Bradley Cooper, Cate Blanchett and Toni Collette.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Thursday 3 March, Westlands Entertainment Venue, 11.00am, 2.30pm,

7.00pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.

Yeovil on Saturday 5 March, Westlands

Entertainment Venue, 7.00pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.

NOMADLAND (12A)

After losing everything in the Great Recession, Fern (Frances McDormand), a woman in her sixties, packs her van and embarks on a journey through the American West, exploring a life outside of conventional society as a modern-day nomad.

SHOWING AT Ilminster on Saturday 5 March,

Warehouse Theatre, 7.45pm. Annual membership £24. Donation requested from members’ guests. Contact: 01460 52285.

NO TIME TO DIE (12A)

Bond is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica after leaving active service. However, his peace is short-lived. His old CIA friend Felix Leiter shows up asking for help. The mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist turns out to be far more treacherous than expected, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology. Starring Daniel Craig, Ana de Armas, Ralph Fiennes, and Rami Malek.

SHOWING AT Sturminster Newton on Thursday 24

February, The Exchange, 7.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01258 475137.

Greed and class discrimination threaten the newly formed symbiotic relationship between the wealthy Park family and the destitute Kim clan. An award-winning original dark comedy about class struggles.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Wednesday 23 March, The

Swan Theatre, 7.30pm. Members £1, Swan Theatre members £4, guests £5. www.cinematheque.org.uk or 01935 421905.

PORTRAIT OF A LADY ON FIRE (15)

In eighteenth-century France, young painter Marianne is commissioned to do the wedding portrait of Héloïse without her knowing. Therefore, Marianne must observe her model by day to paint her portrait at night. Day by day, the two women become closer as they share Héloïse’s last moments of freedom before the impending wedding. Starring Noémie Merlant and Adèle Haenel.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Wednesday 23 February,

The Swan Theatre, 7.30pm. Members £1, Swan Theatre members £4, guests £5. www.cinematheque.org.uk or 01935 421905. Bill Baker (Matt Damon), an American oilrig roughneck from Oklahoma, travels to Marseilles to visit his estranged daughter (Abigail Breslin), in prison for a murder she claims she did not commit. Confronted with language barriers, cultural differences, and a complicated legal system, Bill builds a new life for himself in France as he makes it his personal mission to exonerate his daughter.

SHOWING AT West Camel on Friday 25 February, The

Davis Hall, 7.30pm. Admission £5 on the door. Contact: 01935 851214.

SUPERNOVA (15)

Sam (Colin Firth) and Tusker (Stanley Tucci), a musician and a novelist, partners of twenty years, are travelling across England in their old camper van visiting friends, family and places from their past. Since Tusker was diagnosed with earlyonset dementia two years ago, their time together is the most important thing they have.

SHOWING AT Crewkerne on Friday 25 March,

Wadham School, 7.30pm. Membership £20. Visitors £5 per film. Contact: 07749 614048.

SING 2 (U)

Can-do koala Buster Moon and his allstar cast of animal performers prepare to launch their most dazzling stage extravaganza yet. There’s just one hitch: they first have to persuade the world’s most reclusive rock star – played by legendary music icon Bono, making his animated film debut – to join them.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Saturday 26 February, Westlands Entertainment Venue,

11.00am, 2.30pm, 7.00pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.

Yeovil on Sunday 27 February, Westlands Entertainment Venue,

11.00am, 2.30pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.

SPENCER (12A)

The marriage of Princess Diana (Kristen Stewart) and Prince Charles (Jack Farthing) has long since grown cold. Though rumours of affairs and a divorce abound, peace is ordained for the Christmas festivities at the Queen’s Sandringham Estate. There’s eating and drinking, shooting and hunting. But this year, things will be profoundly different. Spencer is an imagining of what might have happened during those few fateful days.

SHOWING AT Hardington Mandeville on Thursday 24

March, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from Springfield Stores (01935 862363) or £6 on the door.

THE BEATLES: GET BACK – THE ROOFTOP CONCERT (12A)

This theatrically exclusive piece will present an overview of The Beatles’ career from 1956 up until the rooftop concert in 1969 and the entire unforgettable final concert, followed by The Beatles listening to some of their own recordings. The piece wraps up with 8 minutes of credits, which also includes additional footage of recording sessions for Get Back.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Wednesday 2 March, Westlands Entertainment Venue,

11.00am, 2.30pm, 7.00pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.

THE FRENCH DISPATCH (15)

This film brings to life a collection of stories from the final issue of a fictional American magazine, The French Dispatch, published in Ennui-Sur-Blasé, a fictional twentieth-century French city. Starring Adrien Brody, Tilda Swinton, Léa Seydoux and Bill Murray. An eccentric delight from the director of The Grand Budapest Hotel, Wes Anderson.

SHOWING AT Milborne Port on Friday 18 March,

Village Hall, 7.30pm. Advance tickets £5 available from 1 March from Wayne Pullen, Butcher, or £6 on the door. Contact: 01963 251217.

South Petherton on Friday 11 March,

The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340.

THE LAST BUS (12A)

An elderly man, Tom, whose wife had just passed away, uses only local buses and his free bus pass on a nostalgic trip to carry her ashes all the way from John O’Groats to Land’s End, where they originally met. Unbeknownst to Tom, his journey captures the imagination of the local people that he comes across and ultimately becomes a nationwide story. Starring Phyllis Logan, Timothy Spall, and Grace Calder.

SHOWING AT Halstock on Saturday 19 March, Village

Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6.50 from Halstock Shop or on the door. Contact: Tony Hill 01935 892485.

THE PEBBLE AND THE BOY (15)

The story follows a 19-year-old from Manchester who embarks on a journey to Brighton, the spiritual home of the Mods, on an old Lambretta scooter left to him by his father. The film is a celebration of Mod culture and fashion, and features music by Paul Weller and The Jam. Starring Jesse Birdsall, Max Boast and Rick S Carr.

SHOWING AT Kingsbury Episcopi on Tuesday 1 March,

Community Centre, 7.30pm. Tickets £5. Contact: 07964 294230.

South Petherton on Friday 25 February,

The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340.

Music Gigs

All Music Gigs are FREE entry unless mentioned.

FEBRUARY

25 Ross Kirk, Rock Covers, The Old

Pound Inn, Langport, 8.30pm 26 AC/ZZuk, AC/DC & ZZ Top Tribute

Band, The 94 Club, Yeovil, 9.30pm

Roadstars, Rock/Pop Covers, The

Preston, Yeovil, 9.00pm

MARCH

4 The Uptown Cats, Rockabilly,

Yeovil Rock 'n' Roll Club, 9.00pm 5 Chris Banderas, Classic Rock,

White Hart, Sherborne, 9.00pm

Not Like The Others, Covers, The

Old Barn Club, Yeovil, 8.30pm.

Non-members £2 12 ReD, Rock/Pop, The Old Barn

Club, Yeovil, 9.00pm. 19 AC/ZZuk, AC/DC & ZZ Top Tribute

Band, The Lord Nelson, Nortonsub-Hamdon, 9.30pm

Flic Keirle and Bill Osborn, 60s to 90s Covers, The Preston, Yeovil, 9.00pm 25 Ian Valentine, 60s to Present

Covers, The Old Pound Inn,

Langport, 8.30pm 26 Chill, 60s to 90s Covers, White Hart

Inn, Crewkerne, 9.00pm

Lewis & The Sound of the

Suburbs, Ska/2-Tone, The Old Barn

Club, Yeovil, 9.00pm.

Unknown Identity, Covers/

Originals, White Hart, Sherborne, 9.00pm

THE DAY I MET PAUL MCCARTNEY

By Steve Haigh, Station Manager, Radio Ninesprings 104.5 FM

I’ve learned never to ignore a ringing phone… Not since I answered a call to the BBC Leeds newsroom that led to one of the biggest scoops of my reporting life. It was 9 February 1971 6.30pm and everyone had left work or was in the pub and I too was about to leave for the day. I thought if I pick up the phone I could be stuck all night sorting things out – then, I thought – no, this is the news-desk phone and it might be important. So, I answered the call and I’m glad that I did because it led to the first interview with Paul McCartney since the break-up of The Beatles. It was someone ringing the radio station to say they'd seen Paul McCartney in a Leeds hotel – I was not entirely convinced they’d spotted the real Macca as he’d been out of the public eye three years, living on the Mull of Kintyre. But curiosity got the better of me and I grabbed a tape recorder and headed for the Leeds Metropole to investigate. I found a waiter who told me that, yes, a gent named Paul McCartney was in the hotel. He was in the restaurant with a lady friend, he said. Please give him this Radio Leeds card and say there’s a BBC reporter who would like to do an interview, would he be interested? A few moments passed and then amazingly Paul McCartney with wife Linda appeared from the restaurant. I'm relaunching myself with a new band called Wings, Paul said in his unmistakable Liverpool accent. Linda and I are back on the road. It was definitely the real Macca. We found a room to record in and I got the first interview with Paul McCartney following the break-up of the Beatles, and his first public announcement about his new band Wings.

Earlier that day, he’d played a gig at Nottingham University and the following day was due to play at York University. It became known as the Wings University Tour and it marked the relaunch of Paul’s great career. In our chat, he talked openly about how unlikely it was that the Beatles would ever reform. The interview caused a storm. Back then there were no mobile phones so quotes from my interview were used in all newspaper reports. It was a world exclusive. My abiding memory is of Linda dancing around the room and interrupting the interview with the words ‘Give Ireland Back to the Irish’, which was the title of the first Wings record. The BBC had banned the song on political grounds so when it came to broadcasting my interview, references to the ‘Give Ireland Back to the Irish’ had to be edited out. Eight minutes of the interview got edited but four minutes was broadcast across the BBC and I’m pleased to say the audio has been included in the official Beatles archive at the British Library. I can’t promise that you will get to meet someone as famous as Paul McCartney the next time you pick up a ringing phone no one else answers but don’t ignore the call… because you never know where it might lead.

To listen to Radio Ninesprings:

Yeovil and South Somerset 104.5 FMNew Local Radio Station for Chard/Ilminster 107.6 FM Wincanton/Bruton 103.3 FM Yeovil and South Somerset

To listen online:

www.radioninesprings.com

Listen on Smart Speakers:

say: ‘Alexa enable the Radio Ninesprings skill’ thereafter: ‘Alexa play Radio Ninesprings’ Radio Ninesprings can also be heard on Amazon TV