BROAD SHEEP - April 2023

BROAD sheep

april 2023

What’s On - Herefordshire & The Marches

BROAD

Contents

Small Ads

Architecture

Art

Art workshops

Cinema

Dance

Food

Music

Music workshops

Band directory

Theatre Word

Grass roots

Comp therapies

We take no responsibility for the veracity of the information herein

BROAD SHEEP, The Fred Bulmer Centre, Wall Street, Hereford, HR4 9HP

Tel: 07786 131159

Email: info@broadsheep.com

Website: www.broadsheep.com

Opinions - Bah!

N this exciting new development at Broad Sheep I shall attempt to present an entirely new newspaper in just one page so you don’t have to bother wading through all that other stuff.

THE NEWS (slightly out of date)

Sporticus! The big problem with the current Gary Lineker story is people going around having opinions and then other people having opinions about their opinions. Obviously as a fine upstanding institution like the BBC this cannot be allowed, and I feel it’s only right that to show solidarity I should check on all Broad Sheep columnists and make sure they are not exhibiting the same traits. Normally I would only read my own column but give me a minute and I will report back. Oh dear it seems we have a problem. Pernickety – opinions, O’Halloran – pinky snowflake tree hugging opinions, Sam – snidey, sarcastic opinions, Williams – once got us nearly sued back in the 90’s for his opinions, Nick Jones – brutalist opinions. Luckily for The Philosopher and Colvin I can never understand what they are on about but the rest of them will have to go. Honours. I heartily commend Boris for giving his Dad a lordship it’s obviously a lot more fun giving gongs to people you know rather than a lot of boring, worthy nurses, scientists, local Councillors and the occasional, brain dead, rugby player. Think what a lot of goodwill you could accrue going round Presteigne handing out gongs to say - Graham who keeps all our satellite dishes working, or Bryn who tirelessly attempts to keep our outdated bangers on the road, or Lisa whom trusts her customers so much she leaves her stock out all night on the pavement!

CULTURE

Two excellent new books out this month both written by local authors who have previously written bits in Broad Sheep.

One Fine Day: A Journey Through English Time by Ian Marchant

One day Ian Marchant, acclaimed author of books on music, railways and pubs, decided, as all men of a certain age must, to have a dig around his family history. Surprisingly quickly, a web search informed him that his seven-times-great great-grandfather, Thomas Marchant had left a detailed diary from 1714 to 1728, and that a collection of dedicated local historians had transcribed it a few decades before. So far, so jolly … Life-loving diarist Thom – who liked a drink and a game of cards – feels recognisably Marchant to Ian. With fascinating, immersive detail we learn about Thom’s family farm and fishponds; about dung, horses and mud, about beer, the wife’s nights out, his own job troubles and their shared worries for their children. But as Ian digs deeper beyond the Sussex diary’s bucolic portrait he discovers a subtext – a family descended from immigrants, with anti-establishment politics.

Sarn Helen: A Journey Through Wales, Past, Present and Future by Tom Bullough Bullough makes the journey from the Neath to the coast

of North Wales on foot along the route of the old Roman road connecting north and south.

“Sarn Helen is a beautifully downbeat travelogue that’s full of love, rage and humour. A brilliant, pivotal book by one of the most engaged and engaging writers around, it will change you”. Toby Litt

“All time is now: in walking the length of Sarn Helen, Wales’ great north-south Roman highway, Tom Bullough meets centurions, saints and climate scientists alike, and has them all help him weave an urgent and powerful narrative of past, present and future. Though often deeply sobering, it is also a joyous voyage of discovery, of Wales itself, of Tom’s place within it, and the nuggets buried deep in its bedrock that might just help point us towards some hope”. Mike

OBITUARY

Parker

Catherine Poelsma known as TITI

Sorry to have to let people know that Titi died on Tuesday 28th February. She moved to the Borders at the beginning of the 70’s having spent much of the 60’s blazing a trail around her native Holland and America. Either on the dance floor, quaffing Guinness in the Farmers Arms or producing an amazing body of paintings, she lit up the locality for 30 years before a second stroke began to slow her down.

Okay that’s it, now you don’t have to bother reading the rest of the mag. Take it from me it’s just lots of of Art, Music and other stuff not to mention a load of bloody opinions.

FRAMUS LONG-NECK 5-STRING BANJO. Probably made early 1960s. Not played for 50 years. Has resonator, new strings and hard case. All in very good condition. £295. Peter Watts. 01497 831424 (Brilley) or peterwatts135@btinternet.com

VIOLIN LESSONS: ex Halle, ECCO, Guadagnini Trio, professional violinist RCM dip honsARCM. 30 years experience Classical, World Music traditions. Kirsten 01544 388689, kirsten.hellier@googlemail.com

POETRY TUITION and mentoring, on a one to one basis, with a published poet. For details visit Johnsewellpoetry.wordpress.com

DESIGNATED DESKS FOR HIRE Looking for somewhere new to work from? Get your very own desk at WorkPlace at the Ludlow Mascall Centre, available on a monthly basis. Includes Wi-Fi, parking, tea and coffee, and printer access. Hot desks also available on a daily basis. Contact director@ludlowmascallcentre.co.uk or 01584 873882 for details.

HEREFORD MALE with missing mojo seeks female partner for fun times, and whatever...

Email tingtawng@gmail.com Don’t be shy.

WANTED 1950’s-1970’s Plastic Toy Soldiers, Romans, Knights, Cowboys etc. Loose and especially boxed. Timpo trains. 0782 3443474.

SPINDWYER RECORDS Specializing in Folk, Blues and Country. Search my 20,0000 at www.spindwyerworld.uk 07709 904836.

BEEKEEPING FOR BEGINNERS INTRODUCTORY COURSES, talks on bees and beekeeping and one to one tuition. Now taking bookings for our next ‘Bee Ready’ course on May 13th and 14th. For further details phone 07813 276308/01886 884752 or email woodruffbank@btinternet.com

CHAIR REPAIRS: seats rushed & recaned. Also Danish cord & Habitat sheet cane seats. Paul Richards, 01544 209140.Email - paulrichardsft@gmail.com

PIANO LESSONS IN PRESTEIGNE. All ABRSM grades or simply for fun. Contact Mzia 07981752405, mziag@hotmail.co.uk

RETIRED PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE for local work. References available. £80.00 per day. Try me. Roy 01547 520164.

JAZZ PIANO TUITION A specially created course for beginners through to intermediate level students. Also coaching for Associated Board jazz exams. Presteigne/Knighton, but happy to travel. Simon Deeley, 07890 303681. simon.deeley@aol.com

HANCOCK & MONKS MUSIC, 6 Broad Street, Hay-on-Wye. Tel: 01591 610555. Specialists in recorded and printed Classical Music for over 40 years. Huge stock of secondhand CDs, sheet music, scores and books on music. Open daily 10.30am - 4.30pm. Online catalogue at www.hancockandmonksmusic.co.uk

FRUIT TREE PRUNING From one branch to an entire orchard. Tel: 01544 260656. apjervis@myphone.coop

WANTED URGENTLY VINTAGE CLOTHING for male/ female, plus accessories including jewellery, shoes, etc. Also wanted: quality curtains, lace and textiles, even damaged. Plus designer clothing including male/female... tweeds, evening dresses etc. Also unusual items including fans etc. Please telephone: Annie 07798 632247. Teagowns and Textiles. annies.30@hotmail.com

P/T OR OCCASIONAL WORK WANTED Cheerful, fit, educated, mature woman seeks employment. Clean driving licence, DBS checked. Anything considered from office/business support to house sitting including driving, gardening and dog walking. Phone Katy 01547 520328.

VIOLIN/VIOLA LESSONS All styles, all ages, beginners to advanced. Help with composition, theory, aural training. Accompaniment also offered. Ring Tony on 01544 321925 or visit his website: http://camelmusic.co.uk for a CV and more information.

CATERING CROCKERY, CUTLERY AND GLASSWARE FOR HIRE. Up to 100 settings. Contact Ruth on 01544 350559 or 07870 752325.

VIOLIN & VIOLA LESSONS given by experienced professional in Presteigne. All abilities and styles taught. John Hymas 07969 440183.

PRESTEIGNE POP CHOIR Every Thursday. Contact John Hymas for details: 07969 440183. john@johnhymas.com

A STITCH IN TIME Careful repairs & creative alterations to well-loved clothes. Vintage a speciality. Anne 01544 267997.

machine cleaned and new vinyl records, CDs, Books and more.

car park. Hay’s destination shop packed with pre-loved

ent Music Shop - only a one minute walk from the main

Hay’s Headline Making -Independ

Tel: 07527 298199.

HAYSTACKS MUSIC, Backfold, Hay-on-Wye, HR3 5EQ.

www.TheMarketTheatre.com

Visit Ledbury’s purpose built, intimate theatre with comfortable seats, bar and a warm welcome, for a great programme of original drama, music, cinema and live screenings - see listings for what’s on

Post details with cheque to: BROAD SHEEP, The Fred Bulmer Centre, Wall Street, Hereford, HR4 9HP

For more details phone Clare on 07786 131159

city architecture

HE green tarmac was barely dry on St Owen Street’s long-awaited £1-million cycle contra-flow before Muesli Belt residents were branding it (like Dad’s Army’s Private Fraser) ‘doomed to fail’. They were the ones who originally lobbied to have it installed. I’ve yet to see a cyclist using it.

T

At the street’s westernmost end, fronting St Peter’s Square, there’s yet more doom and gloom. No-one has yet come up with a viable solution for how to raise the £7.5-million needed to fix the mock-Greek Shire Hall. Nor is any explanation forthcoming, either from Council officials or Councillors, as to how such a huge repair bill could ever have arisen.

Across the road, the future of the listed Edwardian Town Hall, (outstanding repairs approaching £2-million), remains equally uncertain. It would be a reckless Councillor of any political stripe who would put her/his head above the parapet and suggested a workable solution to either dilemma. IoC’s Cllr Liz Harvey has sensibly argued that with a projected council overspend approaching £8-million, committing to a major refurbishment of the Shire Hall would be reckless. Cllr Terry James puts the overspend figure at nearer £11-million. Herefordshire isn’t quite up there alongside financial basket case Croydon’s debt mountain (£120-million and heading northwards) but we’re getting there.

Last November, when Rishi was flip-flopping over whether to go to COP27 and risk bumping into Greta Thunberg or Vlad The Invader, Herefordshire Council mounted a miniexhibition of its proposals for the much-vaunted Transport Hub, to be sited in front of the city’s listed railway station. A crucial piece in the county’s transport infrastructure jigsaw, it was well worth the wait. Lead designers given the brief were international engineers Arup with architects Weston Williamson – a railway design team made in Heaven. WW were the only architects entrusted by Transport for London with the re-modelling of two stations on the new Elizabeth Line.

In traveller-experience terms Hereford’s scheme is far more exciting than the nearest and most-recently completed transport hub: the £5-million Worcester Parkway, which is little more than a glorified commuters’ park-and-ride. Funding for Hereford’s £10-million Hub will come from the government’s Levelling-Up Ministry. Curiously, at the time of the announcement of the award, Herefordshire Council was claiming that it had already ‘invested’ £3-million in The Hub. Which seems a lot of money to lash out on a two-year- old (vandalised) sign proclaiming ‘Site Of Transport Hub’.

Hereford is one of the region’s busiest stations. PreCovid it handled 1.2 million passengers annually. With the additional student traffic generated by the new NMITE engineering technology institute, annual usage should soon outstrip pre-Covid levels. For Hereford’s Hub, the ‘scenic backdrop’ to the whole complex remains the Tudor-Gothic Barrs Court railway station of 1856, on which I K Brunel’s practice collaborated as structural engineers.

Constructing a £10m Hub without building a building is really quite smart. The Arup + WW scheme envisages an interlocking network of carefully-sculptured pedestrianised spaces between the listed station’s forecourt and the new £25-million Link Road. Visual ‘connection’ will be a striking

Weather canopy will front Hereford station

All travellers’ uses have been catered for in The Hub: enclosed waiting rooms; set-down bays and taxi ranks; sheltered bus stands (with real-time electronic information); automatic ticket vending; secure cycle storage; Beryl cycle hire; well-planted recreational and seating areas; and a signposted pedestrian route to the city centre. RBfH (Rail & Bus for Herefordshire) rightly points out that bus standing spaces will prove inadequate at the time of the Hay Literary Festival, Hereford being a popular staging post amongst festival goers.

R E Johnston’s Tudor-gothic masterpiece remains the dominating backdrop of the Arup + WW composition. I am told that bureaucrats at station lessee Network Rail showed little interest in incorporating the station’s abandoned first floor into the scheme. At present, the only ‘residents’ of this space are hordes of pigeons and the ghost of a secretary who had an affair with a rail manager and drowned herself in the Wye.

L-shaped copper-finished stainless steel weather canopy. The ingenious solution of fronting the station with a civic square was first mooted more than a decade ago in an aborted scheme by London architects CZWG. ‘Naming’ civic spaces has always been popular in this country, so why not call this elegant new landscaped space, abutting the new cross-city highway, Elizabeth Square? All Hereford-bound buses could then show ‘Hereford: Elizabeth Square’ on their destination panels.Restored, this huge space (there were once three separate railway company boardrooms, plus managerial spaces beneath that long 2 600sq m slate roof) would make an amazing catacomb of second-hand bookstalls and reading areas. Even a spacious restaurant (freeing up the cramped Platform 2 cafeteria, which would be returned to a waiting room). All decorated with a back-drop photo-exhibition devoted to the Age of Steam. If Network Rail remains recalcitrant it should be sent a reminder from one of Herefordshire Council’s team of conservation officers of its statutory obligations for the upkeep of all parts of such an important listed building. Funding would almost certainly be available from the Railway Heritage Trust, an agency specifically set up to bring historic railway buildings back into service.

Local elections are only weeks away and a change of control could mean that ambitious projects like The Hub would go back into the melting pot (remember the Wye river crossing that never happened but still swallowed up £10m in aborted fees?). So don’t hold your breath. Nick Jones

SUNDAY 30th APRIL

Court of Noke, near Pembridge, HR6 9HW 10am-6pm FREE

CAR PARK £5

art POWYS

Studer Fine Art, - The Gallery, 4 The High Street, Presteigne. www.studerfineart.com

Until 2 April ‘Sir Gawain and the Green Knight’. An exhibition of 14 original prints by the celebrated artist and designer CLIVE HICKS-JENKINS.

CAROLINE PEARCE - ceramics.

April Spring exhibition featuring work from artists and ceramicists from across Wales and beyond. Including original screenprints by ANGELA HARDING. JOHN BROADLEY. SARAH CLUTTON. CLIVE HICKS-JENKINS & MARK HEARLD. Textiles, prints, paintings, basket work, ceramics and sculpture as well as a host of small gifts and cards.

Open Thurs-Sat, 10.30am - 4pm, extended opening times over the Easter break.

Sidney Nolan Trust, The Rodd, Presteigne LD8 2LL 01544 260149

Until 20 May ‘Thirty Years of Landscape’. PHILIP HUGHES.

Until 13 May ‘In Praise of Shadows’. JONY EASTERBY & PIPPA TAYLOR.

Until 30 Sept ‘The Buzzer’. RICK GRESWELL - sculpture (outdoors).

Until 30 Sept ‘Inside Out’.

KATE HARVEY - sculpture (outdoors).

April ‘Dead Standing’. JONY EASTERBY - sculpture (outdoors).

Open Thurs-Sat 11am-4pm.

Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells www.wonderwoolwales.co.uk

01938 820495

22 - 23 April ‘Wonderwool Wales’. Wool and natural fibre festival. From exhibits of sheep, raw and hand-dyed fibres, yarn for knitting and crochet, embellishments, equipment, dyes and books. 230 trade stands, exhibitions, woolschools, street food, free parking. Open Sat 10am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-4.30pm.

CHATWOOD

Celf gan Osian Gwent

(Art by Osian Gwent)

No. 6 Long Bridge Street, Llanidloes SY18 6EE 0800 999 1953

www.osiangwent.com

Exclusive and original paintings by Welsh contemporary artist OSIAN GWENT. Luxury works of fine artpaintings and limited edition fine art giclée prints. Tues - Sat, 10am - 4pm.

Tower House Gallery, 29 High St, Knighton LD7 1AT 01547 529530 Gallery, shop, cafe. Tues-Sat 10am-4.30pm.

Radnorshire Museum, Temple St, Llandrindod Wells LD1 5DL 01597 824513

April Geology, Archaeology, Natural History, Social History and Fine Art. The museum houses an art gallery with a programme of varied and exciting exhibitions and events.

Tues-Fri 10am-3pm, Sat 10am-1pm. Oriel Davies Gallery, Newtown 01686 625041

Until 30 April Foyer exhibition. ‘It’s Raining Elderly Ladies and Sticks’. Celebrating Welsh ladies. RUTH JÊN EVANS, LUNED RHYS PARRI & JULIE ARKELL.

Until 30 April ‘Maker in Focus’. LINZI MORGAN WHITTING.

Until 21 Sept 2023 ‘Oriel Watching’. ELLEN BELL will be working in the galleries making live drawings of visitors. Open Tues-Sun 11am-4pm. Wyeside Theatre, Builth Wells 01982 552555

7 April - 25 June ‘Inspired Inspiration: Thinking with Colours’. ALICE KIRBY & MELTHAM ARIKAN. Open theatre times.

The Table & The Chair, 43 Lion St, Hay-on-Wye 01497 822802 www.thetablehay.com

Until 8 April CAROLINE YATES & MARK HARRELL.

15 April - 13 May SIMON QUADRAT, DAN WILLIAMS & SAM HALL.

Open Thurs-Sat 10am-3pm.

The Hay Makers, St John’s Place, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5BN 01497 820556

Until 2 April ‘There is no time like Spring’. Unique arts and crafts by The Hay Makers and guests welcoming the return of Spring.

3 April - 14 May CHARLOTTE BAXTER - prints. DANIEL BOYLE - ceramics. Mon-Sat 10.30am-5pm, Sun 11am-4pm.

Minerva Arts Centre, High Street, Llanidloes 01686 413467

Until 15 April Vintage Style Fair.

22 April - 20 May ‘Pathways: Lines and Journeys’. Contemporary work by Tangent Textiles Group plus collaborative work from local organisations. Open daily 10.30am-4.30pm.

Courtyard Antiques, London House, High St, Presteigne, LD8 2BA 07974 356128 outside normal hours. Antique pottery, country furniture and art. Mon-Sat 10am-4pm.

Court Cupboard Gallery, New Court Farm, Llantillio Pertholey, Abergavenny NP7 8AU 01873 852011

April ROSIE FAREY & MANDY COATS - baskets. SUSAN GALLAGHERpaintings. 11am-4pm.

Lion Street Gallery, 6 Lion St, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5AA 01497 822900

Showcasing some of the very best artists from Wales and the Borders. Open 10.30am-5pm daily except Tues, Sun 11.30am-4pm.

Knighton Fine Art, 2 Broad Street, Knighton 01547 528052

www.knightonfineart.co.uk

knightonfineart@btinternet.com

April ‘Fools Rush In’. Over 1000 20th & 21st century paintings with new works from: JULIENNE BRAHAM, SUSIE CAWLEY, GRETCHEN IND, STUART ROPER & ANTHEA

STILWELL. Plus crafts and greeting cards. Open Wed-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-1pm.

Hay Castle, Oxford Rd, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5DG 01497 820079

www.haycastletrust.org

Until 14 May ‘Life in Colour’. EUGENE FISK. Open 10am-5pm. The Workhouse Studio, Presteigne Industrial Estate 01544 267864

Rare antique carpets and kilims. Plus locally made pottery, art materials, textiles, haberdashery, jewellery, cards and gifts. Cafe. Open Wed-Sat 10am-4pm.

Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, Near Newtown 01686 688369

Until 7 May CERI PRITCHARD - new paintings. Collaboration with Ceri Pritchard and filmmakers JACOB

DEAKIN & LUKE AUGUR. LORRAINE MORLEY & GEMMA HUGHESinstallations. OWEN THORPEceramics. ANGELA THORPElithographs.

Wednesdays Weekly Art Talk, 2-4pm, free. Thurs-Sun, 11am-4pm.

Cheese & Butter Market, Hay-on-Wye 07866 843538

Every Fri & Sat Flea & Vintage Market. Vintage clothing, bric a brac, antiques and jewellery. Open 9am-5pm.

Daniel Boyle, The Hay Makers, Hay-on-Wye

Jony Easterby, Sidney Nolan Trust, Presteigne

Julie Arkell, Oriel Davies Gallery, Newtown

Maggie Davis, St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow

Richard Blacklaw-Jones, The Courtyard, Hereford

Reta Summers Cowley, Aardvark Books, Brampton Bryan

David Hassall, Ty Tan Gallery, Hay-On-Wye

Found Gallery, 1 Bulwark, Brecon LD3 7LB 07736 062849 www.foundgallery.co.uk

Until 22 April ‘Body and Soil’. BETH FLYNN - artist and photographer. CONOR RITCHIE - woodturner. GWYN DAGGETT - wood craftsman.

25 April - 20 May ‘The Concrete & The Clay’. DAVID COLLYERphotographs. AGNIESZKA POHLceramics. ROY POWELL - artist.

Open Tues-Sat 10am-4.30pm.

The Art Shop, Cross St, Abergavenny NP7 5EH 01873 852690

Until 6 May ‘Borderland - On the Edge’. ELERI MILLS.

Open Tues-Sat 9.30am-5pm.

The Old School, Whitton, near Knighton LD7 1NP 01547 560936

Museum of Welsh Textiles. A fine collection of Welsh costume, textiles. With a selection of antique textiles and blankets for sale, alongside changing exhibitions of art and antiques. Open by appointment, please phone to book.

Museum of Modern Art, Tabernacle, Heol Penrallt, Machynlleth SY20 8AJ 01654 703355

info@moma.machynlleth.org.uk

Until 22 April Portraits from the Tabernacle Collection.

Until 15 April PAX.

Until 15 April ‘Against All Odds’. SPIKE BLACKHURST.

Until 15 June ‘Hope. Echoes of Mabinogion’. Open Wed-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-1pm.

Knighton Museum, 1 Broad St, Knighton

The Museum is run entirely by volunteers and reflects the social history of the area. The majority of the exhibits have been either donated or lent by local people and reflect the varied history of this border town from the drovers to the flannel weavers; from trade to agriculture. Wed- Sat, 10am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm.

Rhayader Museum & Gallery, CARAD, East St, Rhayader, LD6 5ER 01597 810561

Rhayader Museum are offering an enjoyable opportunity to take part in the creative process of making and installing the displays and installations, working with our team. Please email all@carad.org.uk for details. Look out for new activities and sign up for our free information newsletter online: www.carad.org.uk Tues-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-12pm.

Ty Tan Gallery, 13a Castle Street, Hay-on-Wye 07855 628627

d.hassall0072@btinternet.com

7 - 15 April DAVID HASSALLlandscape painting and life drawing. Open 10am-5pm.

Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells LD1 5EY 01597 258118

www.pavilionmidwales.org.uk

15 April Artisan Market. Over 20 stalls featuring arts, crafts, homemade, handmade local produce. 10am-4pm.

HEREFORDSHIRE

Ledbury Poetry House, Homend, Ledbury www.ledburypoetry.org.uk

4 & 5 March World Book Day handling exhibition of Book Art. 10am-3pm. Station Approach, Hereford HR1 1FN www.meadowarts.org

Until April 2023 Meadow Arts & Hereford College of Arts present the work of Lothar Götz. The first of four new bold new public artworks that will engage with the site over 4 years. The Forum, 18 Market Square, Tenbury Wells WR15 8EA 01584 810085

www.georginafranklin.co.uk

GEORGINA FRANKLINjewellery. Individual contemporary design. Commissions undertaken.

Old Stable Gallery, Leominster

Tourist Information Centre, Corn Square, Leominster 01568 616460

April ALAN HOLLOWAY. Mon-Sat 9.30am-4pm.

Mappa Mundi & Chained Library, Hereford Cathedral, Cathedral

Close, Hereford 01432 374200

Until 22 April ‘Bound to Impress’. A selection of bindings drawn from the Cathedral’s collections, from books made locally in the 12th century to elaborate 19th century luxury bindings. Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm.

Wobage Makers Gallery, Upton

Bishop, Ross on Wye HR9 7QP 01989 720495 www.wobage.co.uk

April SHEILA HERRINGpottery. ANDREW McGARVA stoneware pots. CLARE McGARVAstitched textiles. PATIA DAVISporcelain & pots. BEN CASSONfurniture. SHEILA CASSON - stoneware & earthenware pots. CLAIR HODGSON - silver. JEREMY STEWARD - wood-fired salt-glazed pottery. CLYDE HOAR - baskets. Thurs-Sat 10am-5pm.

Made in the Marches Gallery, 12 Church St, Kington, HR5 3AZ 07531 820195

www.madeinthemarches.com

Beautiful work from local artists and makers, including ceramics, paintings, prints, textiles, wearable art: clothes & jewellery, sculpture, stone, wood, metal and willow, cards and gifts. Commissions and vouchers available. Open Tues–Sat, 11am-4pm.

Canwood Gallery, Checkley HR1 4NF 01568 760242

www.canwoodgallery.com

Until 30 April Hereford College of Art exhibiting their #150mm challenge showcasing Blacksmiths work from all over the world. The Gallery also features work by local and international artists including CARL ANDRE, NICOLE FAHRI, TRACEY EMIN AND DAMIEN HURST, together with a sculpture trail set in 10 acres of rolling countryside.

5 May - 11 June ‘Alone Together’. An exhibition exploring aloneness including an immersive print installation by LEONIE BRADLEY, JESS BUGLER & PRERNA CHANDIRAMANI. Cafe.

Thurs-Sun 11am-4pm.

St Peter & St Paul Priory Church, Leominster 01568 612124

www.leominsterpriory.org.uk

2 - 9 May ‘The Crown and Our Town’. A free exhibition in the historic Priory exploring Leominster’s surprising history with the Crown over 1400 years through artefacts, displays, flowers and more. Featuring King Merewald, the Hereford Hoard, rebellious barons, Prince Owain Glyndwr, Queen Mary I’s charter, local celebrations for George V’s coronation. Refreshments available. Open daily 10am-4pm.

Oxenham Art, Broad St, Leominster HR6 8BT 01568 611898

April SARA HUXLEY - mixed media paintings. JOANNE MAKINpaintings. CATHERINE VAN GIAP - mosaics. CLARE WAKEFIELDceramics.Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-3pm.

South Chapel, All Saints Church, Hereford 01432 370414

Until 1 April JAN BISHOPIndian silks and saris. Mon-Sat 9.30am-5.30pm.

The Courtyard, Hereford 01432 340555

Until 30 April ‘Beachcombing Art’. RICHARD BLACKLAW-JONESrecycled man-made materials that he finds on the beaches. Open theatre times.

Apple Store Gallery, Unit 1, Rockfield Rd, Hereford HR1 2UA 01432 263937

www.applestoregallery.com

Until 22 April ‘Framework Herefordshire’. Members and guests exhibiting recent work. Open Wed-Fri 10am-3pm, Sat 10am-1pm.

RidgeBank Contemporary Art Space, 1 High Street, Kington HR5 3AX 07810 526006

caroline@ridgebank.art

Instagram: @ridgebank

Rolling programme of exhibitions and events. Open Fri-Sun 12-6pm.

Made in Ross, The Upstairs Gallery, Market House, Ross-on-Wye HR9 5NX 01989 769398

www.madeinross.co.uk

Made in Ross. A co-operative of local art and craft makers who produce a wide range of beautiful work, for all tastes and budgets. Open 10am-4pm.

The Basement, 18 Gloucester Rd, Ross-on-Wye HR9 5BU

email gabydevitt@live.com

Beautiful handwoven lampshades, fabrics, pottery, willow baskets and glass. Also a range of eclectic lighting.

Open Wed-Sat 9.30am-4pm.

Gallery 54, 54 High St, Ross-on-Wye 01989 567917

April New work by LEYLA MURR & RACHEL SUDWORTH plus work from resident artists, STUART ELLIS, TESSA HOUGHTON, JOHN MAXWELL STEELE, ANNICA NEUMULLER & ZOE TAYLOR.

Open Thurs-Sat 10-4pm.

Old Chapel Gallery, East St, Pembridge HR6 9HB 01544 388842

www.oldchapelgallery.co.uk

Until 30 April ‘First Song’. Spring exhibition. KIRSTI BROWN, MARIA SANTOS, MARIAN WATSON, KAREN STONE, TAMSIN ABBOTT, KATHIE BARRS, NICK BURNS & JANE WINTON. Ceramics, jewellery in pewter and silver, watercolours, stained glass, felted work, mixed media sculpture and acrylics. All year ‘Shadows on the Grass’. Garden sculpture exhibition. An ever-changing collection of unique sculptures for your outdoor space in a variety of media including ironwork, carved stone, stone resin, iron resin, bronze resin, ceramics. Wed-Sat 11am-4.30pm, Sun 12-4pm. Mon & Tues by appointment.

Greenstage Gallery, Hop Pocket, Bishop’s Frome WR6 5BT 01885 490839

www.greenstagegallery.co.uk

April Open by appointment.

Black & White House Museum, High Town, Hereford HR1 2AA www.blackandwhitehouses.org

April Experience life in the 17th century. Great hands on Easter activities for all the family.

Open Good Friday and Easter Monday.

Open Tues-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-3pm. Children free.

SHROPSHIRE

The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury 01743 234970

Until 25 April ‘Shrewsbury LGBT History Festival Special Exhibition’. Tues-Fri 10am-4.30pm.

St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow www.ludlowartsociety.org.uk secretary@ludlowartsociety.org.uk

22 April - 1 May LUDLOW ART SOCIETY. An eclectic group of artists covering many genres, informal meetings monthly and regular guest speakers. Modest membership fee and exhibitions twice a year.

Open 10am-4pm.

Bishop’s Castle Town Hall 01588 630023

www.bishopscastletownhall.co.uk

Until 15 April ALAN JEFFERIES.

Open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm.

1 April & 6 May Antiques & Flea Market, 9am-4pm.

22 April - 20 May CATHERINE JONES

Mon-Sat, 10am-4pm

Mrs Jones Art Shop & Gallery, 118 Longden Coleham, Shrewsbury SY3 7DU 01743 245134 www.mrsjonesgallery.co.uk

11 - 25 May ‘M is for Maker’.

Open Wed-Sat 10.30am-4pm.

SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630321

April CHIARA IRELAND-MORRIS.

Open Mon, Wed, Thurs 9am-9pm, Tues & Fri 7am-6pm, Sat 9am-1pm, Sun 9am-12pm.

The Gateway Gallery, Chester St, Shrewsbury SY1 1NB

gatewaygallery@mail.com

Until 28 April ‘Closure’. Photographs by David Martin of Shrewsbury Prison interiors and prisoner artworks.

5 May - 2 June ‘Borderland Visual Arts’. Group show of abstract landscape. Open Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm, Thurs until 8pm during term times.

Assembly Rooms, Mill St, Ludlow www.ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk 01584 878141

Until 6 May ‘Abstract Edge’. Paintings, prints, photographs and sculpture.

12 May - 8 July ‘Grounded in Beauty’. JACKIE YEOMANS & CARA CAMPBELL. Mon - Sat 10am-7.30pm.

Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery, The Music Hall, Market Square, Shrewsbury SY1 1LG 01743 258881

Until 16 April ‘The Moon’. Mon-Sat April - June ‘Monument to the Vanquished. Part 2. Rural Rebels. A Meadow Arts project with artist Leah Gordon and researcher Annabel Edwards that explores the social history of land enclosure in England and Wales. Open 10am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm.

Aardvark Books, The Bookery, Manor Farm, Brampton Bryan, near Bucknell SY7 0DH 01547 530744

www.aardvark-books.com

April RETA SUMMERS COWLEY. Tues-Sun 10am-4pm.

Ogilvie Vaile Conservation, Unit 9, Lower Buckton Barns, between Leintwardine and Brampton Bryan SY7 0JU 07780 616067

www.ogilvievaile.com

Specialising in the conservation and restoration of fine art.

The Artists’ Gallery, Ludlow Farm (formerly Ludlow Food Centre), Bromfield, Ludlow SY8 2JR 07974 652866

April Artists include SHELLY PERKINS - wildlife artist.

PRISCILLA HANN - bronze sculpture. DANIELLE FLOWERS - contemporary jewellery. KIM DAVIS - wood turning. MEGAN EVANS - collagraph prints. JAN JAY - textile designs and screen prints. PIP JONES - watercolours. SARAH BILLINGHAM - pottery. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm. www.theartistsgalleryludlow.co.uk 10am-5pm. Instagram@agalleryrunbyartists

Facebook - The Artists’ Gallery. Smithy Studio, Brampton Bryan SY7 0DH 07811 042478

Rustic homewares, fine art and craft. Local makers. Turned wood, slipware, lavender products, textiles, cards and gifts. Thurs-Sat 11am-4pm.

Art & Craft Workshops

Single, dated listings are free. Ongoing workshops, £40 per year.

GINN’S CREATIVE WORKSHOPS

Discover your creative potential at my workshops covering, Art, Textiles and Sewing Techniques, catering for the experienced and inexperienced. Dates to suit you. 01432 760961.

IKEBANA: THE ANCIENT ART OF JAPANESE FLOWER ARRANGING

‘Foam-free’, using seasonal materials. Workshops for maximum 6 people are run by Qualified Teacher and Master in Ikebana (Ohara School). Individual lessons are possible by arrangement. Visit www.discovering-ikebana.com. Western flower arranging workshops are also available, see website ‘Western Style Workshops’, or ring 01432 880126 or email noellaplasman@gmail.com

KNIGHTON PAINTING & SKETCHING GROUP

We meet Monday daytime at the Civic Centre, Knighton (near the Clock Tower) during spring and autumn terms. We have weekly topics with friendly tuition. All abilities, beginners welcome. Learn at your own pace. Discover new skills and increase your confidence. Own choice of art materials. Contact local artist tutor: Audrey Bradley: 01544 350369.

MOOR HALL STUDIO ~ BOBBY BRITNELL

Inspirational art and textile related courses delivered throughout the year by highly qualified tutors. Some courses are on-line, and others face to face. Refer to www.bobbybritnell. co.uk for further information and details of all courses. Contact Bobby Britnell on 01547 510664, or email at bobby@ bobbybritnell.co.uk

ALEX ALLPRESS POTTERY STUDIO - POTTERY EXPERIENCES & LESSONS

Church Street, Builth Wells, LD2 3BS, Powys. Open 7 Days a week, Bespoke family Days, Throwing Workshops and Courses. Children’s Parties, Corporate Festivities, Hen Dos. Hand-building, Gift Sales and Vouchers available. From £40ppTasters - Half day or Full day. Call for more details: 07443875016 e: alexallpressceramics@gmail.com alexallpress.co.uk

LAZY DAISY CHAINS CHILDREN’S SEWING WORKSHOP

Make-it-Happen, Gomond St, Hereford. For children aged 7-11, no experience is necessary. Cost £22. For more details go to https://www. facebook.com/lazydaisychains

STONE CARVING WORKSHOPS

Monthly in Llangarron HR9 6PH. Glenn Morris, sculptor, leads an informal, friendly group. Suitable for beginners and those with some experience. Full tuition, safety equipment and tools provided. Stone available if required. Copious refreshments guaranteed. 01989 770776.

Frances@artsinthemarches.co.uk

RECYCLED GLASS FUSING

Learn to cut, prepare, fire and fuse recycled glass. Create light-catchers, tea light stands or pictures. Half day workshop £30 / person. Includes all materials and homemade refreshments. Workshops arranged to suit you, and / or your friends up to max. 5 people. frances@artsinthemarches. co.uk

BASKETMAKING USING RUSH

Presteigne. Courses available throughout the year covering many techniques. Small groups and all levels taught. All materials and equipment included. For more information see Rushmorebaskets.com or contact Clair at rushmorebaskets@ gmail.com 07713 514902.

CREATIVE BREAKS

Learn a new skill and explore your creativity with experienced tutors, all based in beautiful countryside with outstanding views and local produce. We offer a wide range of courses throughout the year:- Basketmaking, Enamelled Jewellery, Felt-making, Glass Fusing, Hand Block Printing, Hedgerow Medicine, Mosaics, Painting, Pastels, Photography, Plant Dyeing, Spinning and Weaving, Rag Rug Making, Sewing, Stained Glass, Stonecarving, Woodblock printing, Drawing and Upholstery. For full details visit www.creativebreaks.co.uk Make it yourself - take it hometreasure it – or give it with pride!

THE ARTHOUSE STUDIO

Creative workshops including lino printing, glass fusing, jewellery making, fabric printing, traditional glass painting, stained glass. The Art House Studio, Weobley, 07467 941208, www.thearthousestudio.co.uk

April

HEREFORD CATHEDRAL

3 April - Easter Messy Church, 12-3pm. Mondays, term timeToddler Group, craft activities and prayer; suitable 1-3 years, 9.30am, free. Hereford Cathedral, 01432 374225, www.herefordcathedral.org

April

EASTNOR POTTERY

INTO TO THE POTTERS WHEEL £49 per person. Perfect indoor activity for individuals, couples and small groups. 1.5 hr sessions take place on specific dates through the Spring. Please check availability. POTTERS WHEEL

COURSES 1, 15, 29 & 30 April. Weekend: £280 Day: £150 per person. Spend the weekend or day relaxing and creating pots on the potter’s wheel. CLAY MODELLING 4 & 11 April. £25 per person. Themed Pottery Fun for all the family at Eastnor Pottery. Eastnor Pottery, Home Farm, Eastnor, near Ledbury. Please book www.eastnorpottery. co.uk Email admin@eastnorpottery.co.uk or tel 01531 633886.

April

MID WALES ARTS CENTRE

8 April - Life Drawing Class, beginners to advanced, 10am-1pm, £20, students £16. 7 & 8 April - Easter Egg Hunt, 10am-3pm, free, donations welcome for TurkeySyria Earthquake Appeal. 15 April - Lino Printing Workshop for beginners to advanced, 10am-4pm, £65. 29 April - Enamelling - Drawing and Painting Workshop with Ann Jones, beginners to advanced, 10am-4pm, £80. Thurs - After-School Pottery for children 7-11 years, 5-6.30pm, £7. Thurs - Pottery & Ceramic Sculpture Club for all ages and abilities, 2-4pm & 7-9pm, £10. Fri - Pottery & Ceramic Sculpure Club, 11-1pm & 1-3pm, £10. Sat of each month - Family Pottery 2-4pm. 2nd Sat of each month - Life Drawing, 10am-1pm, £20/£14. Wed - Warm Wednesdays’ Tea/coffee, books, newspapers and drawing materials. Activities include Tai Chi, 12-1pm, Wed - Art Talks 2-4pm. Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, Newtown, 01686 688369.

April & May

CALLIGRAPHY WORKSHOPS

15 April - Lettering inspired by Lucienne Day with tutor Ann Mason. 13 May - Copperplate Capitals with tutor Rachel Yallop. Monkland Village Hall, 10am-4pm, £20 members, £25 guests. Info/bookings Kris 01544 327657. Marches Scribes.

April

HAY CASTLE

8 & 9 April - ‘Colour Seduction with Archie Franks’ . Looking at artists that use strong colour in their work in an abstract manner. The course will involve stretching your own canvas, materials provided. Attendees will need to bring their own brushes, paints and boards. Places limited, 10.30am-4.30pm, £150. 18 & 19 April - ‘Byzantine Egg Tempera & Gold Leaf Workshop’ with Petro Birov. This course is designed for both beginners and experienced artists. All materials are included. 20% of proceeds will be donated to the Martha Levchenko Foundation Charity, 10.30am-4pm, £280. Clore Learning Space, Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye, 01497 820079.

April, May & June

ORIEL DAVIES GALLERY WORKSHOPS

Wednesdays until 12 April - Wild Weaving with Jeanette Gray, 1-4pm. Thursdays, 27 April - 18 May - Clay Workshops with Vicky Ware, 12.30pm-4pm.

Fridays 16 June - 21 July - Spoon Carving with Graham Beadle, 1-4pm. Oriel Davies Gallery, Newtown, 01686 625041.

22nd April - 1st May, 10am-5pm

An eclectic mix of the regions finest artists. Showing their work in one of Ludlow’s beautiful places. www.ludlowartsociety.org.uk

April

THE HIVE WORKSHOPS

Every Tues - Life Drawing for all ages, 7-9pm, £8. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 01743 234970.

April

MELISSA HUNT JEWELLERY COURSES

Melissa Hunt, Brampton Bryan, all courses 10am-4pm, £120 for day workshops including materials, www.melissahuntjewellery.com

April

SIDNEY NOLAN WORKSHOPS

6 April - Abstracting the Landscape (for young people). Session 1 for ages 5-9 years, 11am-12pm. Session 2 for ages 10-15 years, 1-2pm. 14 April - Drawing with Shadows. Session 1 for ages 5-9 years, 11am-12pm. Session 2 for ages 10-15 years, 1-2pm. 1 April & 13 May

- Cultivate, a creative programme for 15-25 year olds, 10am-2pm. 17 April-22 May - MAKE, an arts and creative club for young people aged 10-14 on Mondays (term time), 3.30pm-5pm at the Youth Centre, Presteigne.

The Rodd, Presteigne. To book - 01544 260149 or www.sidneynolantrust.org

Sat 1 & Sat 8 April

PYSANKY UKRAINIAN EGG DECORATING WORKSHOPS

Egg decoration in celebration of Spring.

3-hour workshops. Run by Helena Orlowski and Nataliya Cummings.

1 April - Fownhope, £34, all materials supplied, to book, email sue.pope7@btinternet.com

8 April - Hereford, £10 adults, £5 children for fun session for beginners, www.experienceukraine.co.uk

April & May

QUILT ASSOCIATION WORKSHOPS

8 April - Treasure Boxes with Suzette Smart. 16 May - Paint and Batik Landscapes on Teabags with Jenny O’Leary. Minerva Arts Centre, High Street, Llanidloes, £60, email chris.shercliff@quilt.org.uk 01686 413467.

Fri 21 & Sat 22 April

CREATING AN ARTIST BOOK

Two-day workshop for all abilities with Ruth Barrett-Danes. Experiment with colour using textured materials, stencils and paper mask templates. Then create a simple concertina artist book. The Art Shop, Abergavenny, 10am-4.30pm, £190 for two days, includes lunch, refreshments and all materials, 01873 852690.

Tuesdays

DRINK AND DRAW

Weekly life drawing group for all abilities. Bring your own materials and just turn up. Upstairs at The Green Dragon Hotel, Broad St, Hereford, 7-9:30pm, £8, 07587 192495.

Wednesdays

INFORMAL ART GROUP

All welcome, help given if required. The Old School Community Hub, New Radnor, 2-4pm, 01544 350242.

Wednesdays

DRINK AND DRAW

Weekly life drawing group for all abilities. Bring your own materials and just turn up. Ty Tan Gallery (opp. Blue Boar), Hay-on-Wye, 7-9:30pm, block book in advance £90 for 10 weeks or drop-in for £11, 07855 628627.

Thursdays

HEREFORD LIFE DRAWING

The Courtyard, Hereford, 10am-1pm, £7.50, 01432 340555.

3rd Friday of every month

FRIDAY CRAFT CLUB

Bring your crocheting, embroidery, paper crafts or jewellery making to this informal meet. Complete your projects in good company with a side of tea and cake, no booking required. Pot & Page, 8 New St, Ledbury, 10.30am-12.30pm.

GEORGINA FRANKLIN

Jewellery

Individual Contemporary Design Commissions undertaken

Please see website for studio opening times. www.georginafranklin.co.uk

The Forum, 18 Market Square, Tenbury Wells, Worcs. WR15 8EA Phone 01584 810085

THE CROWN AND OUR TOWN

Festival marking the Coronation of King Charles III

2nd - 9th May 2023, 10am-4pm daily

Leominster Priory

A free exhibition in the historic Priory exploring Leominster’s surprising history with the Crown over 1,400 years through artefacts, displays, flowers and more! Refreshments available.

Featuring King Merewald, the Hereford Hoard, rebellious barons, Prince Owain Glyndwr, Queen Mary I’s charter, local celebrations for George V’s coronation!

Sun 7th May 2023 6.30pm

Leominster Community Coronation Service

Massed choirs, brass band, historical characters and dancing. All welcome, free. Fancy hats encouraged!

More info facebook-Leominster Priory-church events, online or 01568 612124

The Priory Church of St Peter and St Paul, Leominster. www.leominsterpriory.org.uk

ASSEMBLY ROOMS, LUDLOW

10 April THE SEVEN YEAR ITCH (PG)

Ludlow Film Club

24 April LETTER FROM AN UNKNOWN WOMAN (1948) Ludlow Film Club

24 April GENIUS WITHIN (2011)

Ludlow Film Club

Assembly Rooms, Mill St, Ludlow, 01584 873229

BRECON FILM SOCIETY

3 April THE FLAVOUR OF GREEN

TEA OVER RICE (U)

1 May THE QUIET GIRL (12A)

7.30pm, Brecon Coliseum Cinema, Wheat St, Brecon. 01874 623166

COURTYARD, HEREFORD

Until 1 - 14 April ALLELUJAH (12A)

Until 1 - 15 April MUMMIES (PG)

3 & 11 April ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT (15)

3 - 20 April THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN (15)

17 - 25 April AFTERSUN (12A)

17 - 26 April A MAN CALLED OTTO

(15)

17 - 27 April EMPIRE OF LIGHT (15)

18 & 21 April ERIC RAVILIOUS: DRAWN TO WAR (PG)

18 & 20 April EVERYTHING

EVERWHERE ALL AT ONCE (15)

19 - 26 April FASHION REIMAGINED

(12A)

22 - 26 April PEARL (15)

22 - 27 April PLANE (15)

28 April ANACONDA 35MM (15)

28 April COCAINE BEAR (15)

The Courtyard Theatre, Edgar St, Hereford 01432 340555

4 April LICORICE PIZZA (15) Lydbury North VH 01588 680302

4 April THE QUIET GIRL (12A) All Stretton VH 07812 583113

5 April THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN (15) Cardington VH 01694 771295

5 April THE LOST KING (12A) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125

5 April LYLE, LYLE, CROCODILE (PG) Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms 01588 676060

6 April LIVING (12A) Brilley VH 07501 133194

8 April DEATH ON THE NILE (2022) (12) Bayston Hill Memorial Hall 07843 413653

8 April THE RAILWAY CHILDREN RETURN (PG) Cawley Hall, Eye 01568 615836

11 April TOP GUN - MAVERICK (12) Ashford Carbonell VH 01584 831574

12 April TICKET TO PARADISE (12) Hope Bowdler VH 01694 723648

13 April ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA

THE MUSICAL (PG) Almeley VH 07557 659291

13 April THE FRONT PAGE (1974)

(12) Leintwardine Community Centre 07572442903

14 April PATAGONIA (2010) (15)

Knighton Community Centre 07964 023841

14 April LIVING (12A) Great Witley VH 01299 896412

14 April LIVING (12A) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125

14 April ELVIS (2022) (12) Whitchurch & Ganarew Memorial Hall

14 April OPERATION MINCEMEAT

(12) Clungunford VH 01588 660159

15 April FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS

- ONE AND ALL (12A) Upton upon Severn Memorial Hall 01684 592273

15 April BATTLE OF THE SEXES

(12A) Little Witley VH 01886 888122

15 April ELVIS (2022) (12) Ombersley

Memorial VH 01905 620350

16 April LES ENFANTS DU PARADIS

(PG) The Coach House Theatre, Malvern 01684 892277

17 April ELVIS (20220 (12) The Red House, Albrighton 01902 373854

18 April LANCASTER (PG) Acton Scott VH 01694 781260

19 April WHERE THE CRAWDADS

SING (15) Myddle VH 07706 450075

20 April LIVING (12A) Gorsley VH 01989 750649

20 April JOYRIDE (15) Kinnerley Parish Hall 01691 683619

20 April THE BAKER (12) Pencombe & Little Cowarne Parish Hall 01885 400311

20 April LIVING (12A) Silvester Horne Institute, Church Stretton 07508 072206

20 April GOOD LUCK TO YOU, LEO GRANDE (15) Huntington VH 01544 370692

21 April LIVING (12A) Bosbury Parish Hall 01531 640333

21 April LIVING (12A) Staunton on Wye VH 01981 501031

21 April THE RAILWAY CHILDREN RETURN (PG) Marton VH 01743 792790

21 April THE LOST KING (12A) Colwall VH 07891 668124

21 April THE LOST KING (12A) Lingen VH 01568 770920

22 April THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY (18) Chapel Lawn VH 01547 530258

22 April MRS HARRIS GOES TO PARIS (PG) Lady Emily Hall, Tarrington 01432 890720

25 April THE LOST KING (12A)

Loppington VH 07785 330065

27 April THE LOST KING (12A)

Almeley VH 07557 659291

27 April FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS

- ONE AND ALL (12A) Much Birch

Community Hall 01981 540097

27 April ELVIS (2022) (12) Goodrich

VH 01600 890609

28 April AFTER LOVE (12) All Stretton

VH 07812 583113

28 April RESPECT (12A) Knighton

Community Centre 07964 023841

28 April WHERE THE CRAWDADS

SING (15) Sarn VH 01686 671105

28 April WHERE THE CRAWDADS

SING (15) Himbleton VH 01905 391306

29 April THE OUTFIT (15) Aston on Clun VH 01588 660139

THEATR HAFREN, NEWTOWN

5 April THE DUKE

11 May SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN Dementia Friendly.

Theatr Hafren, Newtown, 01686 948100.

MKT. THEATRE, LEDBURY

5 April THE LOST KING (12A)

14 April LIVING (12A)

Market Theatre, Market St, Ledbury 07967 517125

PRESTEIGNE SCREEN

14 April CORSAGE (15) www.presteignescreen.org.uk

Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, 8pm.

REGAL CINEMA, TENBURY

1, 3, 4 April PUSS IN BOOTS 2: THE LAST WISH (PG)

7, 10 & 11 April EPIC TAILS (U)

16 April A HARD DAY’S NIGHT (U)

16 April HELP! (U)

16 April YELLOW SUBMARINE (U)

Regal Cinema, Teme St, Tenbury Wells, 01584 811442

SAVOY, MONMOUTH

2 - 5 April ANT-MAN & THE WASP: QUANTUMANIA (12A)

3 - 6 April BABYLON (18)

7 - 13 April SHAZAM! FURY OF THE GODS (12A)

7 - 20 April ALLELUJAH (12A)

Savoy Theatre, Church St, Monmouth 01600 772467

SPARC, BISHOP’S CASTLE

18 April FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS (12A)

SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 01588 638038

SHREWSBURY FILM SOCIETY

14 April FLEE (15)

19 April SUNRISE: A SONG OF TWO HUMANS (U)

28 April THE WORST PERSON IN THE WORLD (15)

Shrewsbury Film Society. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 01743 234970

THEATRE SEVERN, SHREWS

4 April ALLELUJAH (12A)

18 April & 18 May BANFF

MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 01743 281281.

WYESIDE, BUILTH WELLS

1 - 4 April WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT (12A)

1 - 4 April MARCEL THE SHELL WITH SHOES ON (PG)

1 - 4 & 22 April SHAZAM! FURY OF THE GODS (ctbc)

2 April PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH (PG)

2 April ANT-MAN & THE WASP: QUANTUMANIA (12A)

2 April MAGIC MIKE’S LAST DANCE (15)

14 - 16, 18, 19, 22 & 23 April ALLELUJAH (12A)

21 - 23, 25 - 27 April JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4 (ctbc)

21 - 23, 25 - 27 April MY SAILOR, MY LOVE (12A)

23 April SWEET BEAN (PG) Film Club

Wyeside, Builth Wells 01982 552555

LIVE EVENTS ON SCREEN

1 April THE CRUCIBLE

National Theatre. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7pm, 01584 878141.

1 April FALSTAFF

New York Met Opera. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 5.55pm, 01885 488575. The Courtyard, Hereford, 5.30pm, 01432 340555.

2 April THE LIFE OF PI

National Theatre. Hafren Theatr, Newtown, 7pm, 01686 948100.

Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2pm, 01874 611622. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7pm, 01743 281281.

4 April THE LIFE OF PI

National Theatre. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 01743 281281.

6 & 30 April HAMLET

Bristol Old Vic on Screen. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm on 6th, 4pm on 30th, 01600 772467.

8 April ANYTHING GOES: THE MUSICAL

Filmed live in 2021 at the Barbican in London. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 01743 281281.

8 April LIFE OF PI

National Theatre. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7pm, 01432 340555.

12 April HEATHERS THE MUSICAL

Recorded live in the West End. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, 01600 772467.

12 April CINDERELLA

Royal Opera House ballet. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.15pm, 07967 517125. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.15pm, 01600 719401. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.15pm, 01432 340555. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 7.15pm, 01584 811442. OMH, Shrews.

13 April CINDERELLA

Royal Opera House ballet. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7pm, 01584 878141.

15 April

DER ROSENKAVALIER

Metropolitan Opera. The Courtyard, Hereford, 5pm, 01432 340555.

15 April ANYTHING GOES

Filmed live at the Barbican in 2021. Hafren Theatr, Newtown, 2pm, 01686 948100.

16 April CINDERELLA

Royal Opera House ballet. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 2pm, 01588 630321. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2pm, 01874 611622.

Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 2.30pm, 01885 488575. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 2pm, 0192 552555.

18 April VERMEERTHE BLOCKBUSTER EXHIBITION

Exhibition on Screen. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.

20 April GOOD

National Theatre. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7pm, 01584 878141. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 7pm, 01588 630321. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7pm, 01600 719401. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7pm, 01874 611622. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7pm, 01432 340555.

Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7pm, 01885 488575. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 7pm, 01982 552555.

Hafren Theatr, Newtown, 7pm, 01686 948100. Booth’s Bookshop

Cinema, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm 01497 822010.

21 April GOOD

National Theatre (encore). Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, 01743 281281.

22 April DER ROSENKAVALIER

Metropolitan Opera. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 5pm, 01885 488575.

23 April GOOD

Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2pm, 01874 611622.

25 April VERMEERTHE BLOCKBUSTER EXHIBITION

Exhibition on Screen. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, 01885 488575.

26 April GOOD

National Theatre. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7pm, 01584 878141.

27 April THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO

Royal Opera House. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7pm, 01584 878141. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 6.45pm, 01588 630321.

Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 6.45pm, 01600 719401. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 6.45pm, 01874 611622. The Courtyard, Hereford, 6.45pm, 01432 340555. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 6.45pm, 01885 488575. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 6.45pm, 01584 811442. OMH, Shrewsbury.

29 April CHAMPION

Metropolitan Opera. The Courtyard, Hereford, 5.55pm, 01432 340555. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 5.55pm, 01885 488575.

30 April THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO

Royal Opera House. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 2pm, 07967 517125. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 2pm, 01982 552555.

6 May KING CHARLES IIITHE CORONATION

Live on screen. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 9am, (free of charge), 01885 488575.

WORKSHOPS

Every Tuesday

YOUTH CAFE

A safe place where young people can meet and share creative activites including music, drama and films. For ages 8-16 years, free. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 01743 234970

Wednesdays

FILM MAKING CLUB

The Courtyard, Hereford, 5.15pm & 6.45pm, £73 per term, 01432 340555.

dance

Dance Performance

Thurs 13 April

NADIYA & KAI - ONCE UPON A TIME

A fairy tale like no other. It is the brand new dance show starring Strictly superstars Nadiya and Kai. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £47-£27, 01743 281281.

Mon 24 April

ONE NIGHT ONLY

THE VIV KELLY SCHOOL OF DANCE AND THEATRE bring to the stage an uplifting show celebrating the unique community of the school. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7pm, £15, 01743 281281.

Dance Workshops

Single, dated listings are free. Year round entries £40.

Wed 5 & Thurs 13 April

HIGHFLYERS DANCE WORKSHOP

Expert youth dance team and support staff will guide people aged 11-18 on an exciting summer dance journey. All abilities welcome. Venue tbc. 10am-3pm, £5, more information Rachel Liggortt youthsidance@gmail.com

COURTYARD, HEREFORD CLASSES

Adult Classes. Mon - Contemporary Dance with LG Dance, 6.30pm. www.lauragale.co.uk. Tues - Street Jazz with LG Dance, 7.15pm. www.lauragale.co.uk Wed - Adult Irish Dance, 8pm. ludwigtheatrearts.com. Thurs - Silver Swans Adult Ballet, 1.30pm & 2.30pm. www.starlightcompany.co.uk Thurs - Adult Performance Class with LG Dance, 8pm., www.laruagale.co.uk Fri - Chance to Dance, 10.15pm. Junior Classes with LG Dance. Mon - Junior Contemporary, 4.30pm. Mon - Senior Contemporary, 5.30pm. Tues - Junior Street Jazz, 5.15pm. Tues - Senior Street Jazz, 6.15pm. Thurs - Mini Musicals, 5.30pm. Thurs - Junior Musical Theatre, 5.30pm. Thurs Senior Musical Theatre, 6.40pm. www.lauragale.co.uk WedIrish Dance with Ludwig Theatre Arts, Beginners (6+) 6pm, advanced 7pm. Fri - Dancing Tots for ages 2-4, 11.30am. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

LEARN 2 JIVE 50’S SWING STYLE CLASSES

Mon - Bartestree Village Hall, Hereford. Silvester Horne Institute, Church Stretton. Tues - Pembridge Village Hall. SaxonHall. Ludlow Assembly Rooms. Wed - Burford Village Hall, Tenbury Wells. Holy Trinity Parish Hall, Malvern. Lyppard HUB, Worcester. Thurs - Ledbury Dance Studio, Bye Street. Abberley Village Hall. SunEardisley Village Hall. For more information please e-mail info@coolmovesdance.co.uk Matt or Sarah on 01989 750354. www.coolmovesdance.co.uk

Coolmoves Dance & Fitness for adults.

SHIMMY CENTRAL WITH ALANYA Open Level Adult Belly Dance Classes. Bodenham Parish Hall, HR1 3LB. 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month, 1-3pm. Pay-as-yougo - please book by the previous Wednesday. For full information visit www.alanyabellydance.com or call Abbie on 07962 161081.

Fortnightly Saturdays CHORUS LINE Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 07943 417561.

Tuesdays, Thursdays - Saturdays MID WALES DANCE ACADEMY Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 07943 417561.

Tuesdays FOXWHELP MORRIS Why not try Morris dancing? We practice every Tues evening at 7.30pm in Moccas Village Hall from Sept to May. Mainly dances from the Cotswolds, but also some from the Welsh Borders. All sexes welcome, and ability to dance not necessary! Beginners welcome. Contact Paul 01497 821003 or Jed 07549 096291.

Wednesdays SOLO LATINO DANCE Parish Hall, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm. Mely 07837 169505.

Wednesdays BIG FISH LITTLE FISH FOR MUMS & TOTS! Dance Centre, Llandrindod Wells, 2-3pm, £3 drop in, for tots aged 8 months+, 01597 824370.

Thursdays WILD WEST SALSA Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, 7.45pm, £6, students £5, social dance only £4, 01432 357753.

Thursdays JENNY PIPES MORRIS is a lively well established female Morris side looking for new dancers to join us, all abilities welcome including beginners. If you are a musician (male or female) looking to play for Morris dancing, then please join us and have some fun! We dance Cotswold and Border Morris, practicing on Thursday evenings at 7.30 at Stoke Prior Village Hall, Leominster, HR6 0LG. Contact Helen 07821 411236 or Rose 07815169566.

Fortnightly Sunday HIGHFLYERS YOUTH DANCE COMPANY For ages 11-18 with disabilities or additional needs and their siblings. All welcome. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 2-4pm, 01743 234970 or email Rachel youthsidance@gmail.com

Monday

Bartestree Village Hall, HR1 4BY, 7.30-8.30pm Silvester Horne Institute, SY6 6BY, 7.30-8.30pm

Tuesday

Saxon Hall, HR2 6HE, 7.30-8.30pm

Pembridge Village Hall, HR6 9EB, 7.30-8.30pm

Ludlow Assembly Rooms, SY9 1AZ, 7.30-8.30pm

Wednesday

Burford Village Hall, Tenbury, WR15 8LA, 7.30-8.30pm

Holy Trinity Parish Hall, Malvern, WR14 4LR, 7.30-8.30pm

Lyppard HUB, Worcester, WR4 0DZ, 7.45-8.45pm

Thursday

Ledbury Dance Studio, HR8 2AA, 7.30-8.30pm

Abberley Village Hall, WR6 6AZ, 7.30-8.30pm

Sunday

Eardisley Village Hall, HR3 6NH, 7.30-8.30pm

Great

Join

* Friendly Atmosphere Improves Fitness

A The Station Inn, Marshbrook

NYONE who frequently drives north up the A49 towards Shrewsbury will have noticed an unattractive double bend at a junction with a minor road called the B4370, which heads off to Bishop’s Castle. On either side of the turning is a pair of scruffy yards, containing a collection of sub-prime motor vehicles, abandoned petrol pumps, and early stage scrap metal. To reach the object of Mr Pernickety’s appraisal this month, prospective punters must pass between the two, before making their way over the level crossing adjacent to the now defunct Marshbrook station. This little halt stood on the old Shrewsbury and Hereford Railway, whose inauguration had been celebrated with a banquet in the Ludlow Assembly rooms in 1852. Less than twenty years later, such was the fierce and unbridled competition in the building of Britain’s rail network, this comparative minnow of a rail venture had been gobbled up by much bigger, more powerful fish, the LNWR and GWR. But within a year of its first opening, a local entrepreneur had built and opened beside the tiny railway station an inn, subsequently known as the Wayside Inn.

Mr P has no knowledge of the place before it was bought in 1997 by a local butcher of expansionist vision, Richard, grandson of Leslie Davies who had founded the butchers in the 1920s. It was a brave move; the pub wasn’t especially attractive, possessed not much of an outlook and was on a stretch of road often occupied by cars waiting for the crossing gates to open with their engines idling.

However, eating there now, it’s clear that what the young butcher and his wife brought with them was a real enthusiasm for victualling, and an inbred knowledge of meat. Thus, the most significant thing to say about this eating place is that it is not a vegetarian heaven, although, no doubt, professional as they are, non-meat eaters will be catered for. Vegans, Mr P suggests, should check first. Mr P himself is experiencing a tortuous journey through his own feelings about meat. There is no question that he enjoys it, in all its subtleties of taste and texture, and the nourishing qualities of the protein it contains. At the same time, he is acutely conscious of the damage done to the environment by rearing meatin the methane produced by bovine flatulence and the inefficient conversion of plant to meat. Like our newly ascended King his position is compromised. For, where HM publicly advocates environmental initiatives against global warming, it seems he cannot resist travelling around the world in fossil-fuel thirsty motors, diesel powered Royal Trains and helicopters. Similarly, even though Mr P may grumble about the detrimental effects of beef-rearing, he will soon find himself licking his chops

in appreciation of a fine piece of grilled Hereford, or roast leg of lamb that has just come off the early autumn hills, sweetened by the whinberries and moorland herbs it has consumed.

Mr Pernickety and his Lovely Companion decided to visit the Station Inn after several enthusiastic recommendations by friends who enjoy their food. On reflection, Sunday Lunch may not have been the best occasion to choose. The Pub’s reputation had drawn a lot of eaters – the large carpark was almost full; the interior of the pub and the extended restaurant were full too, although this didn’t affect efficient service.

As far as Mr P could tell, there was only a roast carvery on offer; in his experience, carveries are tricky to get right, since many undiscerning diners have widely varying views of how meat should be cooked. In this case, the LC made the right call, perceiving that the joint of beef on offer was reassuringly rare in colour, and so it proved in flavour. Mr P chose lamb, which, it turned out, had been cooked longer, a little too long in his view, with a slightly tired edge of fat to it. The self-service vegetables were numerous, warm, and interestingly cooked – always tempting greedy punters like Mr P to overload their plates.

The space where they ate was a little underwhelming, safe and bland, but adding nothing to the dining experience. At least the chairs, designed for rural Shropshire dimensions, were accommodating and comfortable. With a glass of red from the Languedoc, Mr P enjoyed his lunch despite the slight shortcomings of his roast lamb. The LC had no reservations, and they followed their main course by sharing a peach and frangipani flan, which was delicious. The carvery at £13.95 is undoubtedly good value, especially in these times of rocketing costs for restaurants. It’s clear that the place has a loyal following, based mainly on its serving of prime steak – selected with the inherited butchering skills of the proprietor. Mr P looks forward to returning and indulging his sinful enjoyment of fine beef from the grill.

Mr Pernickety - info@misterpermickety.com

EVENTS

April

HEREFORD BEER HOUSE

2 April - US Beer Tasting, 4pm. 23 April - Schramm’s Meadery Tasting, 2pm. details www.herefordbeerhouse. co.uk

Mon 3 April JAZZ CAFE AT BILL’S

Pop-up jazz event with meal £25, music only £15. Bill’s Cafe, Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7pm, 01584 878141.

Mon 17 April FOLK CAFE AT BILL’S

Pop-up folk event with meal £25, music only £15. Bill’s Cafe, Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7pm, 01584 878141.

Every Saturday LUDLOW COUNTRY MARKET

9am-12pm at The Womens Centre, Ludlow. Local produce, handicrafts, plants & veg, cut flowers, cards.

First Saturday of every month (except August)

FARMER’S MARKET Produce, craft, gifts, kitchen cafe open. Eaton Bishop Village Hall, 10am-12pm.

First Saturday of every month PRESTEIGNE LOCAL FOOD MARKET Memorial Hall Presteigne, 9am-1pm.

The best collection of artisan food producers in the area.

2nd and 4th Saturday of every month KNIGHTON COMMUNITY MARKET Knighton Community Centre, 9.30am-12.30pm, 07751 221487.

3rd Saturday of every month FARMER’S MARKET

Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 9am-1pm, 01588 630023, www.bishopscastletownhall.co.uk

2nd Saturday of every month LEOMINSTER FARMER’S MARKET Corn Square, 9am-1pm, 01568 797427.

Third Saturday of every month PRODUCE MARKET Hightown Community Rooms, Vicarage Rd. Clun, 10.00am - 12.00pm. 01588 641180.

Third Saturday of every month BURGERS, BYTES & BOARDGAMES

Table top games in good company, fast food and drinks on tap! Play in-house games or bring some of your own to share. Pot & Page, New St, Ledbury, 7.30pm, please book, www.potandpage.co.uk

Third Saturday of every month FARMER’S MARKET Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 9am-1pm, 01588 630023.

Every Monday HEREFORD LEFT BANK Half price on all food and drinks from 5-7pm. Coffee House (overlooking the river), Left Bank Village, Hereford, www.theleftbankvillage.co.uk

First Thursday EVENING FARMER’S MARKET

The Barn, Ledbury, HR8 1EA, 6-8pm. www.ledburyfoodgroup.org

Every Thursday MONTGOMERY TOWN MARKET

Regular stalls on the lower floor. First Thurs of the month, using both floors with community cafe. Open 9am-3pm, www.montgomery-wales.co.uk/market 07790 100462.

Every Thursday HAY MARKET DAY Local produce, meat and fish, hot food, artisan bread, cakes, crafts, vintage, plants. Memorial Square and Clock Tower, Hay-on-Wye, 9am-2.30pm, www.haymarkets.co.uk

Every 2nd & 4th Thursday LUDLOW LOCAL PRODUCE MARKET Castle Square, 9am-2pm, 01584 872043.

Every Friday KINGTON PRODUCE/CRAFTS MARKET Market Hall, Kington, 9am-1pm, 07867 483135.

Every Friday & Saturday from 5pm STEAK NIGHTS

Floodgates Restaurant & Bar, Left Bank Village, Hereford, www.theleftbankvillage.co.uk

First Friday of the month BOOKCLUB DINNERS Join Katie and the bookworms for an evening of literary delights. Each month we meet to discuss a different book and share a meal inspired by the story. Pot & Page, New St, Ledbury, 7pm, please book, www.potandpage.co.uk

FOOD BYTES

Why not advertise? Only £40 per year.

AARDVARK BOOKS LTD, THE BOOKERY, MANOR FARM, BRAMPTON BRYAN, BUCKNELL 01547 530888 Cafe serving refreshments, cakes etc. Tuesday - Sunday 10am-4pm and Bank Holiday Mondays.

THE GREEN BEAN CAFE, WEOBLEY 01544 318865

Good, locally sourced, homemade food. Soups, all day light lunches, cakes and scones. Set in the heart of Weobley. Free wifi. Tues-Sat 9.30am-3pm. With The Green Bean Shop/Deli under the same roof.

THE ORGASMIC CIDER COMPANY, GREAT PARTON, EARDISLEY, HEREFORDSHIRE, HR3 6NX 01544 327244 or 07773 037448 Craft cider and perry off licence and gift shop with local products. Open Friday and Saturday 12 to 5pm. Group tours available.

PLANTASTIK cic, 15 WEST ST, LEOMINSTER is closed now but has morphed into NORI’S CAFE. Vegetarian and vegan food from your old friend. Open Thursday 11-3, Fridays and Saturdays 10-4 ffi: noriscafe@yahoo.com

RHOS MARKET GARDEN, KNIGHTON 01547 528315 Growers & providers of organic veg, fruit & flowers. Eco cleaning products & refills. Large range of groceries & wholefoods. The Old Garage Shop Knighton LD7 1EN. Wed. - Fri. 9 - 4, Sat. 10 - 2. Free parking. Organic veg boxes delivered to collection points in Presteigne, Knighton and Beguildy. rhosorganic@outlook.com www.rhosorganic.co.uk

THE WORKHOUSE CAFE, INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, PRESTEIGNE 01544 267864 Cafe, gallery, light lunches, good coffee, homemade cakes. Wed-Sat 10am - 4pm.

Why not advertise your eating establishment?

IT’S ONLY £40 FOR THE WHOLE YEAR

BROAD sheep

Just post the wording you require (around 40 words) together with a cheque payable to ‘Broad Sheep’ and post to:

Broad Sheep, The Fred Bulmer Centre, Wall St, Hereford,HR4 9HP

Further enquries, call 07786 131159

APRIL

Sat 1 April

50 YEARS OF FENDER

The story of the Fender Stratocaster guitar, told through five decades of the very best hits featuring this famous instrument. The Albert Hall, Llandrindod Wells, 7.30pm, 0300 102 4255, www.thalberthall.co.uk

THE BIG WEEKEND

Sessions, Morris, sessions, Morris and more sessions. Monkland Arms, near Leominster.

SONYA SMITH

Singer songwriter. Original songs and covers with a ‘live lounge’ feel. Pale Fires Acoustic Festival. Firefly, 5 Market St, Oakengates, Telford, 8pm, 07359 177728.

FRIENDS’ EASTER CONCERT

Museum of Modern Art, Machynlleth, 2.30pm, 01654 703355.

MAD DOG MCREA

Fool’s Fling with The Cherrystones + Wye The Folk. The Lost Arc, Rhayader, 7.30pm, 01597 811226.

DJ PARTY NIGHT

Max Galactic with music legends Utah Saints headlining. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, 01497 821762.

FROM GOLD TO RIO: THE GREATEST HITS OF SPANDAU BALLET & DURAN DURAN

Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, £24, 01874 611622.

THE ROCKET MAN

Two hours of Elton John hits. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

HEREFORD CHAMBER CHOIR

Lenten Choral Evensong, with music by Gibbons, Pullin, Leighton, 5pm, free entry. Plus concert with music by Brahms, Schutz and Bach, 7pm, £12 in advance, £15 on the door, refreshments available. Holy Trinity Church, Bosbury, 01531 670734.

WILL KILLEEN

Acclaimed local musician, known for his slide guitar skills and unique blend of Celtic roots and American country and blues. Hereford Beer House, West St, Hereford, 7.30pm, free entry.

LIONEL

Malcolm Pitt delivers a powerful performance celebrating the music of Lionel Richie and the Commodores. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £25, 01873 850805.

MIKE AND DYLAN JAMES

Melodeon and double bass duo, singing and playing tunes and dance music of the Celtic world. Cawley Hall, Eye, near Leominster, 7.30pm, £7. Breton Dance Workshop 2.30pm-5.30pm, £5, 07579 965851 or email maggiep@phonecoop. coop

THE WILDFIRE

Plus Andrew Pearce. Ludlow Brewing Co., Station Drive, Ludlow, 7.30pm, £10.

CHARLIE’S BIG NIGHT

Comedy, music, spoken word, food and drink. The Muse, Glamorgan St, Brecon, show starts 8pm, food and drink from 7pm, £20 with food, 07791 654799.

VENUS

Royal George, Lingen, 01544 267322. THE TOTAL STONE ROSES

Plus support from Oaysis. The Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 18+, 07498 966606. WINGWALKERS

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

Sun 2 April

CHORAL EVENSONG

Leominster Priory, 4.30pm.

SUDHA IN CONCERT

World music, sacred chants and mantras from one of the most beautiful voices in the world. The Globe, Hay-onWye, 7.30pm, www.ticketsource.co.uk/ lumindra

Sudha

THE PANAMA JAZZ BAND

Richmond Place Club, Edgar St, Hereford, 7pm, 01432 276304.

THE PEDWARDINE ENSEMBLE

Performing String Quartets by Haydn, Dvorak and Moeran. Great Hall, Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye, 6pm, £12 seated, £8 standing, 01497 820079.

THE BIG WEEKEND

Sessions, Morris, sessions, Morris and more sessions. Monkland Arms, near Leominster.

COME & SING & SUP

Faure Requiem followed by supper. Ross Parish Church, 6pm, singing free, supper £10, www.rossparishes.uk

THE FUREYS

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £26, 01743 281281.

KATHRYN ROBERTS & SEAN LAKEMAN

Multi award-winning husband and wife duo exude timeless class with their exquisite brand of traditional and contemporary music. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 7.45pm, £17.50, 01743 234970.

Mon 3 April

JAZZ CAFE AT BILL’S

Pop-up jazz event. Bill’s Cafe, Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7pm, meal and music £25, music only £15, 01584 878141.

SUDHA IN CONCERT

World music, sacred chants and mantras from one of the most beautiful voices in the world. Ludlow Methodist Church, 7pm, www.ticketsource.co.uk/ lumindra

BRIMFIELD FOLK CLUB

Featuring Sonya Smith, singer/songwriter. Original songs and covers with a ‘live lounge’ feel. Brimfield Village Hall, 7.30pm, 01584 711480. Bring your own drink/glasses.

CIDER CITY JAZZMEN

The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford.

Tues 4 April

CATHEDRAL CHOIR

With Marches Baroque singing Bach’s sublime masterpiece, St John Passion. Hereford Cathedral, 7.30pm, £25, £18 or £10, 01432 374210.

EMILY MAE WINTERS

Singer, combining straight to the heart bittersweetness with her own unique passion and drama in performance. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.

Wed 5 April

SUDHA IN CONCERT

World music, sacred chants and mantras from one of the most beautiful voices in the world. Lion Ballroom, Leominster, 7pm, www.ticketsource. co.uk/lumindra

GABBA GABBA HEY!

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

Thurs 6 April

SUDHA IN CONCERT

World music, sacred chants and mantras from one of the most beautiful voices in the world. Silvester Horne Institute, Church Stretton, 7pm, www.ticketsource.co.uk/lumindra

POP DIVAS LIVE

Featuring tributes to all the female pop stars. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2pm & 6pm, £17.50, 01743 281281.

WILLOW STATION

Crown & Anchor Vaults, Bishop’s Castle.

Fri 7 April

CHEMICAL BROTHERS TRIBUTE

Plus The Daft Punk Experience. The Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 7pm, 18+, 07498 966606.

ANNA DAVIES & THE SINNERMAN

Golden Cross, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford.

FRIDAY ACOUSTIC SESSION

Monkland Arms, near Leominster.

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, 01497 821762.

ME AND MY FRIENDS

Playing soulful, poignant music with a beat: a unique blend of Afrobeat grooves with rich harmonies, languidly graceful cello and playfully funky clarinet, all tied together by the elegant voice of singer and guitarist, Nick Rasle. The Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, 7.15pm, £12 from The Workhouse, Presteigne or online at WeGotTickets.

Emily Mae Winters

Me and My Friends

Fri 7 April

GUITAR ICONS

Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 7pm, tickets from £10, 01989 763174, www.rosscornexchange.co.uk

THE UNDERCOVER HIPPY

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm.

CONCERTS IN THE ROUND

A free lunch-hour concert. St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, 12.30pm.

Sat 8 April

CILLA & THE SWINGING 60S

Featuring Sandy Smith. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, 01885 488575.

BONGO’S BINGO EASTER SPECIAL Plus After Party Live. The Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 5pm, 07498 966606.

PAUL PARKER AND ALL THE RIGHT FRIENDS

The Bridges, Ratlinghope, 8pm, 01588 650260.

THE WHISKEY RIVER TRIO

Featuring Aidan, Dennis and Martin. Hightown, Hereford, 12.50-1.50pm, outside stage, free.

THE AARDVARK EASTER EVENT

Over 20 stalls of fantastic carbootery, plus an amazing selection of plants from the Cottage Herbery. Live music featuring Red Madog (Jack Brett) 11am-2pm, hot food and much more. Free parking and entrance. Aardvark Books, The Bookery, Manor Farm, Brampton Bryan, Bucknell, 10am-4pm, 01547 530744.

VERY SANTANA

Tribute band. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, 01497 821762.

EASTER FAMILY RAVE

Bunny hop along to all your favourite tunes with an egg-cellent party full of bubbles and balloons. Suitable for all ages. The Courtyard, Hereford, 2.30pm & 4pm, 01432 340555.

Sun 9 April

NEW VOYAGE

The Vaga, Hereford, 5-7pm.

SONIC BOOM

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

TOMMY ALLEN’S BLUES DUO

Richmond Place Club, Edgar St, Hereford, 3.15-5.15pm.

Mon 10 April

TESS

Singer, songwriter with acoustic set. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 12pm, 01497 821762.

LUNCHTIME ORGAN RECITAL

Hereford Cathedral, 1.15pm, free with retiring collection.

THE YOUNG ‘UNS

St Mary’s Church, Shrewsbury, 8pm, www.ticketsource.co.uk

Tues 11 April

BRECON JAZZ CLUB

Featuring Zoe Gilby vocals + Jim Barber Trio. The Muse, Glamorgan St, Brecon, 8pm, £12 in advance, £15 on the door, www.breconjazzclub.org

Wed 12 April

DAVE LUKE AND CHUCK MICALLEF

Nori’s Cafe, Leominster, £25 with meal. Please book in advance, 01584 831386, email noriscafe@yahoo.com

Thurs 13 April

LOTUS MOTION

Crown & Anchor Vaults, Bishop’s Castle.

MARY LATTIMORE + TINY LEAVES

Indie/electronic/post classical. Unitarian Church, Shrewsbury, 7pm, 07970 611115.

JAZZ CLUB

Featuring Alex Clarke Quartet. Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 8pm, tickets from £8, 01989 763174, www. rosscornexchange.co.uk

VIGIL OF WAR + THE NEW SUBTERRANEANS

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8.30pm.

ESCAPE ROOM

It is 1890, you have been accused of embezzling money from the Vicar’s Choral funds and been shut in the Old Chapel until the police arrive. You have one hour... Hereford Cathedral, £60 per session for groups of up to six people. Booking essential.

www.herefordcathedral.org

WELSHPOOL MUSIC CLUB

Featuring Young-Choon Park, a distinguished South Korean born pianist playing a programme of Beethoven, Brahms and Chopin. Methodist Church, High St, Welshpool, 7.30pm, £15, students £5 on the door, 01938 559087.

CHILDREN’S DISCO

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 4pm, 01497 821762.

LIVE AT THE LOFT

Featuring Hurrican Tapes, The Human Error & Jazz Mags (post punk). The Loft Cinema, 18 West St, Hereford, 7.30pm, £5.

MA BESSIE’S PROHIBITION PARTY

Focusing on 1920s/30s blues and jazz to the present day and on the life of the late, great Empress of the Blues, Bessie Smith. Featuring the warm vocals of Julia Titus and the dynamic Pig Foot Band. Breinton Village Hall, 7.30pm, £12/£6/£30, 01432 263769. Arts Alive.

Fri 14 April

THE LEWIS MERTHYR BRASS BAND & THE PAUL SHALLCROSS ENSEMBLE

A scintillating selection of music from the world of film. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, £15, 01874 611622.

HAY MUSIC

Featuring The Solem Quartet. They play Henriette Bosmans: String Quartet; Bela Bartok: Quartet No. 2; Ludwig van Beethoven: Quartet in A minor. St Mary’s Church, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, tickets from www.haymusic.org and Hay TIC.

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, 01497 821762.

SHOP FRONT HEROES + BAXTER BUMSTEAD + VINCENT WHYTE

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

OPEN MIC

Hosted by Mark Richards. Hundred House Inn, Purslow, SY7 0HJ, 8pm. Please pre-book your slot, markianrichards@hotmail.com

The Undercover Hippy

Fri 14 April

SOUNDS INTERESTING

Contemporary classical music including String Quartet no. 3 and Piece for Three Violas by John Hyslop. Shrewsbury Abbey, 1pm, free entry, donations accepted in aid of children’s charity, TeamCleo. 07796 824632.

CONCERTS IN THE ROUND

A free lunch-hour concert. St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, 12.30pm.

SUNBIRDS

FT Dave Hemingway of the Beautiful South. The Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6.30pm, 07498 966606.

THE LUDLOW ENGLISH SONG

WEEKEND

Opening Recital: Colloque

Sentimental. With Carolyn Sampson, soprano; James Atkinson, baritone; Iain Burnside, piano; Michael Foyle, violin. Programme includes Britten, Poulenc, Hahan, Geoffrey Bush, Faure, Quilter, Duparc, Liza Lehmann, Milhaud, Martin Bussey, Ireland, Daryl Runswick, Bridge, Debussy, Ravel and Vaughan Williams. St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow, 7.30pm. ‘Time Stands Still with Helen Chariston, mezzo and Toby Carr, theorbo. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 9.30pm, 01584 878141, www.ludlowenglishsongweekend.com

FOLK IN THE FOYER

Featuring The Roving Crows. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 8pm, £12, 01885 488575.

MA BESSIE’S PROHIBITION PARTY

Focusing on 1920s/30s blues and jazz to the present day and on the life of the late, great Empress of the Blues, Bessie Smith. Featuring the warm vocals of Julia Titus and the dynamic Pig Foot Band. All Stretton Village Hall, 7.30pm, £12/£5/£30, 07812 583113. Arts Alive.

ESCAPE ROOM

It is 1890, you have been accused of embezzling money from the Vicar’s Choral funds and been shut in the Old Chapel until the police arrive. You have one hour... Hereford Cathedral, £60 per session for groups of up to six people. Booking essential. www.herefordcathedral.org

THE JAMES OLIVER BAND

Blues. With support from Twoblue (Eddy Gartry & Lydia Homer). Priest Weston Village Hall, 7.30pm, real ale, posh wine, snacks, raffle, DJ, £10, 07740 124513.

MADDY PRIOR & THE CARNIVAL BAND

‘Chapel and Tavern’ sees them celebrate the lives and culture of ordinary folk. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, £27.50-£24.50, 01873 850805.

Sat 15 April

THE MERSEY BEATLES

Part of ‘Before Abbey Road There was Teme Street, Celebrating 60 Years since The Beatles Played in Tenbury’. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 4pm & 7.30pm, 01584 811442.

NICK AND JANE

Celebrate Beatles Fest Tenbury with the poptastic duo performing the greatest hits of the 60s and 70s, including plenty of Beatles tunes. Market Tavern, Tenbury Wells, 1-3.30pm.

THE ROVING CROWS

Garway Community Hall, 8pm, £12, under 18s £6, bar available, www.ticketsource.co.uk/atgarway

R&B LOVERS FESTIVAL 90s and 00s live performances. The Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

THE DRIFTERS

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £32, 01743 281281.

THE WHISKEY RIVER QUARTET

Brecon Blues Club, The Muse, Brecon, 8pm, £10.

THE LUDLOW ENGLISH SONG WEEKEND

Morning Recital: The Voices of Desire. With Sian Dicker, soprano; Kieran Rayner, baritone; Krystal Tunnicliffe, piano. Programme includes Finzi, Judith Weir and Edward Rushton. St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow, 11am. ‘Three Plus One’. With Trio Balthasar, Michael Foyle, violin; Tim Hugh, cello; Iaian Burnside, piano and Elinor Rolfe Johnson, soprano. St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow, 2.30pm. ‘Music for a While’. Featuring Rachel Nicholls, soprano; Kathryn Rudge, mezzo and Iain Burnside, piano. St Laurence’s Church, 7.30pm. 01584 878141, www.ludlowenglishsongweekend.com

BRECON TOWN CONCERT BANDCOME AND MEET THE BAND

A relaxed performance in which you can bring your own instrument and join in or just listen. For all ages and will include Prokofiev’e Peter and the Wolf. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2pm, free event, but booking is essential, 01874 611622.

CELEBRATING 60 GOLDEN YEARS OF TOM JONES & SHIRLEY BASSEY

Featuring The Denmark Street Big Band. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.15pm, 01600 719401.

MA BESSIE’S PROHIBITION PARTY

Focusing on 1920s/30s blues and jazz to the present day and on the life of the late, great Empress of the Blues, Bessie Smith. Featuring the warm vocals of Julia Titus and the dynamic Pig Foot Band. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.30pm, £14, students £8, 07967 517125. Arts Alive.

Sun 16 April

WEDDING SHOWCASE

Suppliers and ideas for your big day. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 12pm, 01497 821762.

THE LUDLOW ENGLISH SONG WEEKEND

Young Artist Masterclass with Rachel Nicholls and Iain Burnside, 11.30am, Ludlow Assembly Rooms. Closing Recital: Captain Stratton’s Fancy’. With Brindley Sherratt, bass; Iain Burnside, piano; Rebecca Leggett, mexxo and Krystal Tunnicliffe, piano Programme includes Britten, Delius, Vaughan Williams and Roger Quilter. St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow, 2.30pm, 01584 878141,

www.ludlowenglishsongweekend.com

RAY COOPER + SUPPORT

The Lost Arc, Rhayader, 6pm, 01597 811226.

NICK AND JANE

Celebrate Beatles Fest Tenbury with the Poptastic duo performing the greatest hits of the 60s including plenty of Beatles tunes. Outside the Regal, Tenbury Wells, 1.30pm-2.30pm.

FROZEN PARTY

Live sing-alongs and games. The Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 2.45pm, 07498 966606.

ROBIN NOLAN PRESENTS: THE MUSIC OF GEORGE HARRISON

George Harrison was a fan and friend of Robin Nolan and a leading authority on Gypsy Jazz Guitar. Part of ‘Before Abbey Road There wes Teme Street, Celebrating 60 Years since The Beatles Played in Tenbury’. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 6pm, 01584 811442.

Mon 17 April

FOLK CAFE AT BILL’S Pop-up folk event. Bill’s Cafe, Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7pm, meal and music £25, music only £15, 01584 878141.

Ma Bessie & her Pig Foot Band

Tues 18 April

OPEN MIC FOR YOUNG PERFORMERS

The Underground (side Gate Public Hall), Bishop’s Castle, 6.30pm, free, email Liz@sparctheatre.co.uk for details.

Wed 19 April

PAUL YOUNG: BEHIND THE LENS

Singing his hits and telling stories about his incredible career. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

CARA DILLON

Cara will be joined by husband and musical partner Sam Lakeman and folk musician Toby Shaer. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £24, 01743 281281.

AMERICANA SESSIONS

Monkland Arms, near Leominster.

THE SIXTEEN

Celebrating 400 Years of the Music of William Byrd. Exploring some of Byrd’s most emotional works, their 2023 choral pilgrimage introduces the music of his influences and brings his legacy firmly into the modern day with the world premiere of two pieces by Dobrinka Tabokova. Hereford Cathedral, 7.30pm.

SIMON AND SAOKO BLENDIS

Husband and wife team present a delightful, nostalgic programme of rediscovered salon music from the Max Jaffa library. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7.30pm, £20/£10, 01584 878141.

Thurs 20 April

MONICA AND THE EXPLOSION + THE NEW SUBTERRANEANS

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8.30pm.

KNIGHT & SPIERS CONCERT

Peter Knight and John Spiers. Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, £18, www.ticketsource.co.uk/bcth

THE CHRISTIANS

Expect to hear all the hits. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £28, 01743 281281.

LIMEHOUSE LIZZY

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £23.50, 01743 281281.

HOT ROD 55

Crown & Anchor Vaults, Bishop’s Castle.

Fri 21 April

BOWIE EXPERIENCE

Celebrating the sound and vision of David Bowie. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

PIGDAZE

Ska-pop-punk malarky. Sociable Beer Company, Worcester, free entry.

KARL PHILLIPS & THE REJECTS + PACKET RACKET

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

OPEN MIC

Hosted by Mark Richards. The Rose & Crown, Ludlow, 8pm. Please pre-book your slot, markianrichards@hotmail. com

LIMEHOUSE LIZZY

Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells, 7.30pm, 01597 258118.

T’PAU

Led by singer Carol Decker. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £28, 01743 281281.

ENGLISH MUSIC SESSION

The Blue Boar, Ludlow, 8.30pm, 07887 535893.

CONCERTS IN THE ROUND

A free lunch-hour concert. St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, 12.30pm.

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, 01497 821762.

SOUNDS INTERESTING

Contemporary classical music including String Quartet no. 3 and Piece for Three Violas by John Hyslop. St Andrew’s Church, Presteigne, 1pm, free entry, donations accepted in aid of children’s charity, TeamCleo. 07796 824632.

THE ALLEY CATS

Golden Cross, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford.

THE CARPENTERS EXPERIENCE

Non-stop hits. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £22, 01600 772467.

Sat 22 April

HAY MADRIGALS

Members sing madrigals, short masses, motets and other secular pieces, as well as solos and duets from the 16th to the 18th centuries. Great Hall, Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye, 2.30pm, free, 01497 820079.

ST GEORGE’S DAY CONCERT

Featuring Hereford Police Male Voice Choir with guests Marazion Apollo MVC. St Mary’s Church, Ross-on-Wye, 7.30pm, £10, www.rossparishes.uk or on the door.

SHREWSBURY JAZZ NETWORK

Featuring violinist and composer Dominic Ingham (violin) and the Dominic Ingham Quartet. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, £23, under 22s £12, 01743 234970.

URBAN FOLK QUARTET

Multi-genre and multi-instrumentalists, their fiddle tunes and folk songs take on elements far beyond the traditional. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 8pm, £18.50, 01743 281281.

FIVE O’CLOCK HERO

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

DEBORAH ROSE

And pianist Martin Riley. St Leonard’s Church, Yarpole, 7.30pm, £12, under 18s £7. Bar. Book via Eventbrite or 01568 780849.

UNDAUNTED

The Wrekin Inn, Telford.

THE FODENS BAND

One of the leading Brass Bands in the world. The Hafren Theatre, Newtown, 3pm, £15, under 18s £8.50, 01686 948100.

CHARITY AUCTION BALL

Black tie themed Charity Ball for The British Heart Foundation and The Herefordshire Heart Fund. Drinks on arrival, 3-course carvery, live music and entertainment. Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, 6.30pm, £55, www.theleftbankvillage.co.uk

Sun 23 April

ST GEORGE’S DAY

With Guttersnipe. Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 3pm.

CHORAL EVENSONG

Ross Parish Church, 6pm.

KINGTON WALKS QUIZ NIGHT

Teams of 4 or just turn up. The Oxford Arms, Kington, 7.30pm, £3 per person includes light refreshments, www.kingtonwalks.org

Tues 25 April

INSTRUMENTS OF TIME AND TRUTH

The ensemble represent world-class performances of baroque and classical music. Great Hall, Hay Castle, Hay-onWye, 7.30pm, £20, 01497 820079.

Wed 26 April

ESCAPE ROOM

It is 1890, you have been accused of embezzling money from the Vicar’s Choral funds and been shut in the Old Chapel until the police arrive. You have one hour... Hereford Cathedral, £60 per session for groups of up to six people. Booking essential. www.herefordcathedral.org

DEAN FRIEDMAN

St Mary’s Church, Shrewsbury, 8pm, www.ticketsource.co.uk

Thurs 27 April

QUIZ

All proceeds to charity. Balance Inn, Luston, 8pm, £2. Every team gets a free homemade pizza, 01568 616801.

SHOP FRONT HEROES

The Loft Cinema, Hereford.

Thurs 13 April, 8pm, from £8 JAZZ CLUBALEX CLARKE QUARTET

Sat 29 April, 8pm, from £7 SOUL STRUTTERS

Thurs 11 May, 8pm, from £8 JAZZ CLUBBRYAN CORBETT QUARTET

Fri 26 May, 8pm, tickets £20 RICHARD DURRANT

Thurs 27 April

COSMIC KITTEN + THE SUNSET LIMITED

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8.30pm.

LEGENDS OF AMERICAN COUNTRY

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £25, 01743 281281.

MOJO FESTIVAL

Top class Blues and Roots bands, along with a comprehensive selection of real ales and ciders. Featuring Beez Neez. Crown & Anchor Vaults, Bishop’sCastle, 9pm, free, 07971 213728.

Fri 28 April

SOUL TRAIN

Delivering a fun presentation of 60s and 70s soul classics. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £22, 01600 772467.

RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £47-£32, 01743 281281.

BONGO’S BINGO

Plus After Party. The Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, 01497 821762.

HOT CLIMATE + UNDAUNTED

Ludlow Brewing Company, Station Drive, Ludlow, 01584 873291.

CLUN VALLEY JAZZ

Ivo Neame’s Dodeka Ensemble.

Formidable phronesis pianist Ivo Neame unleashes a tour de force with his latest 12-piece ensemble Dodeka. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 07768 504322, clunvalleyjazz@gmail.com

BUDAPEST CAFE ORCHESTRA

Journey from one emotional pole to another: from a desperately tragic evocative heart-rending ancient Jewish melody to a dance from Romania or Russia and all the fiery exuberance that goes along. The Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, 7.30pm, £14 from The Workhouse, Presteigne or online at WeGotTickets.

ABBA BY CANDLELIGHT

Featuring tribute act, Abba Reunion. Hereford Cathedral, 7.30pm, www.herefordcatheral.org

CONCERTS IN THE ROUND

A free lunch-hour concert. St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, 12.30pm.

MOJO FESTIVAL

Top class Blues and Roots bands, along with a comprehensive selection of real ales and ciders. Featuring The Robin Bibi Band (outside). Crown & Anchor Vaults, Bishop’s Castle, 9pm, £5, 07971 213728.

BEATLES COMPLETE

A tribute to the Fab Four. A night packed with massive hits from the most influential band of all time.

The Albert Hall, Llandrindod Wells, 7.30pm, £18/£15, 0300 102 4255, www.thealberthall.co.uk

ORANGE RIVER REMEDY + COLLIDER SKIES + SI ALTON

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

TAPESTRI + SUPPORT

The Lost Arc, Rhayader, 7.30pm, 01597 811226.

KICKBACK

Featuring Don’t Feed the Goat, a Ska punk band from Ludlow. With support from Versaints. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7.30pm, £8, 01584 878141.

Sat 29 April

WHOLE LOTTA SHAKIN’

The Shakin’ Stevens Story, starring Rebel Dean with full live 5- piece band and projection screen. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, 01584 811442. RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £47-£32, 01743 281281.

SOUL STRUTTERS

Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-onWye, 8pm, tickets from £7, 01989 763174, www.rosscornexchange.co.uk

MOJO FESTIVAL

Top class Blues and Roots bands, along with a comprehensive selection of real ales and ciders. Featuring TwoBlue (Eddy Gartry and Lydia Homer), 2pm; The Grant Pritchard Blues Band, 4pm; The Black Rapids, 7pm; Bluzebox 9pm, (outside). Crown & Anchor Vaults, Bishop’s Castle, £10, 07971 213728.

THE NEIL COLEY BIG BAND

Live in concert, featuring Rich (‘Rich Swings’) Hazelwood. Leintwardine Church, 7pm, £15/£12 from Grifiths Garage, Leintwardine or online at Ludlow Assembly Rooms.

COUNTRY SUPERSTARS

The World’s biggest Country Music Tribute Touring Show. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

THE SIMON & GARFUNKEL STORY

Using projection photos, original film footage and a live band performing all the hits. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, £20.50, 01874 611622.

Budapest Cafe Orchestra

Sunday 28th May 3:00pm St Giles Church, Downton-on-the Rock, Ludlow SY8 2HX

Belaria & Friends

Belaria is a singing duo featuring soprano

Patricia Head and tenor John Davidson. The two friends simply enjoy singing together and formed Belaria to create more performing opportunities and to share their love of singing and music with anyone who would care to listen!

Free Admission | Retiring Collection | Refreshments

Sat 29 April

NOUGHTY BUT 90S LIVE

A 4-piece band playing all the biggest hits from the 90s. The Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, 8pm, £16, over 18s only, www.theleftbankvillage.co.uk

Sun 30 April

MOJO FESTIVAL

Top class Blues and Roots bands, along with a selection of real ales and ciders. Featuring Lazy Joe and the Dirty Laundry, 1pm; Whiskey River Band, 3pm; Tommy Allen Band, 3pm, (outside at The Six Bells). Crown & Anchor Vaults, Bishop’s Castle, 9pm, £5, 07971 213728.

CLUN GREEN MAN FESTIVAL

Traditional crafts, family fun and medieval merriment. Live music from Whalebone, Dan Walsh, BC All Skas, Stiff Witness, Liz Still, Modified Youth, Dunk Burns, David Ian Roberts, Melomanics and Clun Ukelele Band. Clun. Tickets www.clungreenman.org

THE ROY ORBISON STORY

Featuring Barry Steele and a cast of musicians and singers. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £27.50, 01743 281281.

SKABURST

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

STEVIE KEYS

The Vaga, Hereford, 4-6pm.

MOJAM

Pop, rock, country, folk covers duo. The Grape Vaults, Broad St, Leominster, 3pm.

LULU - FOR THE RECORD

Join Lulu as she shares, for the first time, many untold stories and enjoy the music that has been her constant companion. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

MAY

Mon 1 May

CIDER CITY JAZZMEN

The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford.

BRIMFIELD FOLK CLUB

Featuring Sonya Smith, singer/songwriter. Brimfield Village Hall, 7.30pm, 01584 711480. Bring your own drink/ glasses.

CLUN GREEN MAN FESTIVAL

Traditional crafts, family fun and medieval merriment. Live music from Whalebone, Dan Walsh, BC All Skas, Stiff Witness, Liz Still, Modified Youth, Dunk Burns, David Ian Roberts, Melomanics and Clun Ukelele Band. Clun. Tickets www.clungreenman.org

THE TOASTERS + SMOKE LIKE A FISH

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 3pm.

Wed 3 May

GABBA GABBA HEY!

Featuring Wax Futures + Dvrk Romantics + Bad Fiances.

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8.30pm.

Fri 5 May

TEQUILA MOCKINGBIRD

Golden Cross, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford.

JOHN E VISITIC + GUNS FOR GIRLS

Plus support. Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

BROMYARD SYMPHONIC WIND BAND

Coronation concert, with guest vocalist Cameron Killey. Falcon Hotel, Bromyard, 7.30pm, £10, from The Falcon or www.bromyardwindband.com

BONGO’S BINGO

Plus After Party. The Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

CHARLIE DORE WITH JULIAN LITTMAN

Malvern Cube, Great Malvern, 7.30pm, £12, 01684 575363, www.malverncube.com

CONCERTS IN THE ROUND

A free lunch-hour concert. St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, 12.30pm.

DES & DAN

Des Horsfall and Dan Raza, two of the UK’s best singer-songwriters reunite to bring their songs and stories to the stage. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 7.30pm, £15, children £8, 01588 630321.

Sat 6 May

AN EVENING OF MEAT LOAF

With Europe’s No.1 tribute band. The Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 4pm, 07498 966606.

OPEN MIC

Hosted by Mark Richards. Bull Hotel, Ludlow, 8pm. Please pre-book your slot, markianrichards@hotmail.com

PUB QUIZ AND GARDEN PARTY

Royal George, Lingen, 01544 267322.

EMMA LINNEY

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

THE BEAT

One of the key bands of the UK ska revival of the late 70s and early 80s. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 8pm, £18, 01600 772467.

Sun 7 May

BANK HOLIDAY BLITZ PARTY

Live swing music from Electro Swing Circus, live cabaret from two of the UKs top burlesque performers. Plus DJs. Beefy Boys will be serving some authentic 1930s style food. The Shack Revolution, Hereford, 8pm-2pm, £20 from The Beefy Boys, www.thebeefyboys.com

MONKEY WRENCH

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

LEOMINSTER COMMUNITY CORONATION SERVICE

Massed choirs, brass band, historical characters and dancing. Fancy hats encouraged! Leominster Priory, 6.30pm, free, 01568 612124.

DES & DAN

Des Horsfall and Dan Raza, two of the UK’s best singer-songwriters reunite to bring their songs and stories to the audience. The Sun Inn, Leintwardine, 4.30pm, www.danraza.com

HELLENS MUSIC 2023

Children’s Choir from Bosbury Primary School, 3pm. Great Barn at Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, near Ledbury, free, www.hellensmusic.com

BEAUX GRIS GRIS & THE APOCALYPSE

Mid Wales R & B Club. The Muse, Glamorgan St, Brecon, 7.30pm, www.midwalesrandb.club

Music Workshops

Fri 14 April & Fri 2 June TAIKO DRUMMING FAMILY WORKSHOP

Have fun playing Japanese Taiko drums. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 10.30am, 01874 611622.

Sat 15 April BRECON TOWN CONCERT BAND - COME AND MEET THE BAND

A relaxed performance in which you can bring your own instrument and join in or just listen. For all ages and will include Prokofiev’e Peter and the Wolf. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2pm, free event, but booking is essential, 01874 611622.

Sat 22 April COME AND SING WORKSHOP

Led by Rob Evans and Hilary Norris. ‘The Armed Man - A Mass for Peace’ and associated music. Weobley Village Hall, 10am-4pm, information and booking online at www.kingtonchoral.org.uk

Sat 29 April FREE YOUTH JAZZ EXPERIENCE

With Ivo Neame and five musicians from Dodeka to celebrate the UNESCO World Jazz Day. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 3-4pm, clunvalleyjazz@gmail.com or 07768 504322.

2023 BRASS & WOODWIND REPAIR COURSES

3 - 7 April - Brass Repair (foundation), £1118.00. 10 - 15 April - Woodwind Repair (foundation), with Richard Hamer, £1318.00. 20 & 21 May - Just Trombone Slidesslide repair and re-alignment, £596.00. 29 May - 2 JuneSaxophones Galore! Advanced and general repairs with Richard Hamer and John Pratt, £1378.00. Trevor Head, Llangunllo, 07971 083089, email trevorhead@btinternet. com

Mondays CRAVEN ARMS MALE VOICE CHOIR All ages welcome singing a broad repertoire of traditional and modern songs. Practice at The Craven Arms Community Centre, 7.30pm. Martin on 01694 722500.

Mondays, term time only

THE MERE SINGERS An open-access mixed voice, adult choir singing original and traditional acapella songs. No need to read music. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, details email Mary Keith maryskeith@aol.com

Mondays, term time only LIVE WIRE MUSIC MONDAYS

You will have the opportunity to play songs with other musicians who are just starting out and grow alongside them as the weeks progress. You can explore creating your own musical parts all the way from a riff to a whole song. We will rehearse suitable covers where you should never feel out of your depth. Ages 11-21. Close House, Hereford, 4-6pm. Email lisa@encore-enterprises.com

Mondays ALIVE & KICKIN’ CHOIR Old Muse, Glamorgan St, Brecon, 7-9pm, £5, tanyawalkermusic@hotmail.com

Monday BRECON TOWN BAND REHEARSALS Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7pm, 07779 390954.

Monday BANDAMANIA Bright and breezy traditional and original music.Assembly Rooms, Presteigne. Mondays at 7.30pm, Sue Harris 01547 550158

Monday (from Sept) GARRICK SINGERS For over 55s, no prior experience of singing. The Courtyard, Hereford, 2-3.30pm, £5 per session, lisa@encore-enterprises.com.

Tuesday DOLAU MIXTURES Mixed choir. Dolau Community Hall, Llandrindod Wells, 8pm, 01597 851427.

Tuesday LUNCHTIME UPLIFT SINGING SESSIONS

Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 12pm, 07723 016837.

Fri 5 May - SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 7.30pm

Sun 7 May - The Sun Inn, Leintwardine, 4.30pm

Thurs 11 May - Ludlow Brewing Co, 7.30pm

Fri 12 May - Dragon Theatre, Barmouth

Tuesdays SAMBA BRECON Sue on 07792 165481 or Gill on 01497 821631. 7-9pm, VH, near Brecon.

Tuesday LEOMINSTER COMMUNITY CHOIR During Liv’s maternity leave our leader is Hannes Kaiser. He has a Steiner background and is drawingbeautiful harmonies from the choir. Come and have a inspiring sing -7.158.45 at Leominster Community Centre ffi 01568 369074.

Tuesdays term time only LIVEWIRE SESSIONS The Castle Green Pavilion, 5:30 - 7:30pm. A drop-in for anybody interested in music. Whether you’ve never picked up an instrument before or classically trained or not. Explore different song/lyric writing methods, a take on covers, music production, rap, development & recording. Ages 11-21. Information email lisa@encore-enterprises. com

Tuesday WHITTON VOICES Mixed community choir. Traditional, world and original songs. Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, 7.30pm. Call Sue Harris 01547 550158.

Wednesday ROCKSPRING COMMUNITY CHOIR Rockspring Community Centre, Ludlow. 01584 529053.

Wednesdays (online session only) SINGING FOR LUNG HEALTH GROUP Specifically for people who suffer from progressive lung diseases, these sessions help you breathe better, reduce stress and have fun. 11am, email lisa@encore-enterprises.com for information.

Wednesdays CASTLE VOICES Community choir, songs from around the globe. Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 7pm. Sue Harris 01547 550158.

Wednesday LUDLOW LARKS COMMUNITY CHOIR

Led by Polly Bolton. Songs from around the world. Ludlow Women’s Centre, 7.30pm-9pm. 01584 823604 or info@oak-barn.co.uk or www.jollypages.co.uk/larks

Thursday EDGE CHAMBER CHOIR Auditioned chamber choir led by Ros Crouch. Friends Meeting House, Ludlow, 7.30-9.30pm. 01584 841053 or ros.crouch@gmail.com

Thursday CLUN SINGERS Informal community choir, traditional and original songs taught by ear. 10am in High Town Hall, Clun. Sue Harris 01547 550158.

Thursday BELLA A CAPPELLA All-female 4-part close harmony singing group. Oscars, Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7.15-9.45pm, email aimoevo@hotmail.co.uk

Thursday CANTORION LLANDRINDOD A non auditioned mixed voice choir early and classical music. Rehearsals currently in Holy Trinity ChurchLlandrindod Wells. 7.30pm9.15pm.www.cantorion-llandrindod.org 01597 810601

JAZZ PIANO LESSONS

* Understand jazz chords

* Learn how to improvise

* Play classic jazz tunes

* Learn to improvise in four important styles: blues, swing, mainstream/modern and Latin

Presteigne based. Will travel - Borders area

Simon Deeley A.L.C.M 07890 303681 simon.deeley@aol.com

Thursday PRESTEIGNE POP CHOIR Contact John Hymas for details: 07969 440183, john@johnhymas.com

First Thursdays BLACK HILL TUNE CLUB 2pm at the Crown Inn Longtown. Free. 01432 263495.

Every Friday WELLSPRINGS Song-writing course, open to anyone over 18 who would like to improve their mental wellbeing. For more information email lisa@encore-enterprises.com

Friday LITTLE HEREFORD VOICES COMMUNITY CHOIR We are a non-audition choir formed 12 years ago with 25+ mixed voices. Rehearsing at Little Hereford Village Hall, 7.30pm- 9.15pm. Subscriptions £3.50 per session paid termly, first trial session free. Broad repertoire (usually 3 & 4 parts) – all welcome. Info: term dates etc: lhvoices.wix.com/home Facebook: @LittleHerefordVoices

Friday BUZZY BEATS! A fun music filled morning for the under 5s. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 10.30am-11.30am, £7, 01743 234970.

Friday CRAVEN ARMS SAMBA CIRCLE Craven Arms Community Centre.10.30 a.m - 11.45 a.m. regularly during term time with some holiday sessions. Join our friendly group to learn traditional djembe rhythms from Africa and samba rhythms from Brazil - Adults £5 (children accompanying their parents can join in with holiday sessions - £1, second child free). Enquiries carol@mkgriffs.plus.com

Friday FAMILY MUSIC MAKERS Fun sessions for parents and toddlers 12.30-2pm, £4 per adult and child pair, under 1s free. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

Sessions

First Saturday OPEN MIC Greyhound Inn, Llangunllo, 8.30pm, 01547 550400.

First Saturday FOLK & IRISH SESSION Harp Inn, Glasbury-on-Wye, 8.30pm, free, 01497 847373.

First Saturday of month PICKIN’ AT THE BIRD The Bird in Hand, Coton Hill, Shrewsbury, 01743 357484, 9pm.

3rd Saturday OPEN MUSIC SESSION The Castle Dinas, (formerly The Dragon’s Back), Pengenffordd, Talgarth, 01874 711353.

3rd Saturday OPEN MUSIC SESSION Harp Inn, Glasbury-on-Wye, 8.30pm, free, 01497 847373.

Every Sunday FOLK/ACOUSTIC SESSION The Crown & Anchor, Llanidloes, 8pm.

3rd Sunday IRISH SESSION Pandy Inn, Dorstone, 01981 550273.

3rd Sunday FOLK & STEP SESSION The Monkland Arms, 7.30pm, 01568 720510.

Last Sunday IRISH SESSION The Yard at Daphne’s, High St, Presteigne, 07377 909216.

Last Sunday OPEN MIC Volunteer Inn, Harold St, Hereford, 7.30pm, martinchapple1@gmail.com

Every Monday OPEN MIC NIGHT Bull Inn, Shrewsbury, 01743 344728.

First Monday of month OPEN MIC Bridges Inn, Ratlinghope, 01588 650260.

First Monday (except Bank Holidays) FOLK SINGAROUND

Musicians and listeners welcome. The Broadleys, Ross Rd, Hereford, 7pm, 07763 077837.

First Monday BRIMFIELD FOLK CLUB 01584 711480 and the website at www.roger435.wixsite.com/brimfieldfolkclub

2nd Monday JAM SESSION The Barley Mow, Trefonen, 7.30pm, 07751 420796.

Every Tuesday PLAYING TOGETHER An interactive, intergenerational play session for older adults and pre-school children. The Courtyard, Hereford, 10.30am, 01432 340555.

Every Tuesday (term time only) LIVEWIRE Drop-in for anybody interested in music. For ages 11-21. The Castle Green Pavilion, Hereford, 5.30pm-7.30pm, details lisa@ encore-enterprises.com

Every Tuesday YOUTH CAFE

A safe place where young people can meet and share creative activites including music, drama and films. For ages 8-16 years, free. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 01743 234970.

Every Tuesday OPEN MIC King Charles II, Broad St, Ross-on-Wye, 8pm, 01989 219357.

Every Tuesday OPEN MIC The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 01497 821762.

Every Tuesday OPEN MIC Run by Moz, PA provided, all welcome. Castle Vaults, Shrewsbury.

Every Tuesday TUESDAY JAM SESSION The Falcon Hotel, Bromyard, 8-11pm, 01885 483034.

Every Wednesday MUSIC CAFE FOR ARMED FORCES VETERANS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA The Courtyard, Hereford, 11am-3pm, free, and £7.50, 01432 340555.

Every Wednesday ACOUSTIC NIGHT Baskerville Hall Hotel, near Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, 01497 820033.

Every Wednesday ACOUSTIC SESSION Prince of Wales, Ledbury, 8.45pm, 01531 632250.

1st and 3rd Wednesday DRAGON BAND 8-10.30pm, Montgomery Town Hall, Broad St., Montgomery, Free but £5 donation gratefully received. 07831 383636.

1st Wednesday HEREFORD BLUEGRASS SESSION The Old Brewery Bar, The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford, 8pm.

2nd Wednesday ACOUSTIC SESSION The Red Lion, Llanidloes, 8.30pm.

2nd Wednesday AMERICANA SESSION Monkland Arms, Monkland, near Leominster, 01568 720510

2nd Wednesday MARTIN’S MUSIC Open mic from 7pm. Babar Cafe, Union St, Hereford, martinchapple1@gmail.com

2nd Wednesday OPEN MIC White Horse Inn, Clun, 8.30pm onwards. 01588 640305.

2nd & 4th Wednesday TELFORD ACOUSTIC CLUB

The Crown Inn, Oakengates, Telford, 9pm, 01952 610888.

3rd Wednesday MUSIC SESSION

Beer In Hand, Eign St, Hereford, 07543 327548.

3rd Wednesday JAM SESSION The Unicorn, Oswestry, 7.30pm, 07751 420796.

Every Thursday & Friday A CLOCKWORK ORANGE

TREE Open mic, 7pm. The Orange Tree, 16 King St, Hereford.

Every Thursday OPEN MIC Lupa Cocktail Bar, 37 Bewell St, Hereford, 7.30pm, lupahereford@gmail.com

Every Thursday OPEN MIC Bridge Inn, Michaelchurch Escley, 7-8pm, 01981 510646.

Every Thursday OPEN MUSIC SESSION Nat and Delia present Duke Joint Jam. Oxford Arms, Kington, 6.30pm, all welcome, 01544 230322.

Every Thursday SESSION Black Swan, Much Dewchurch, 01981 540295.

Last Thursday KINGTON FOLK Traditional folk club set-up, no guests, performers welcome. Back room of the Oxford Arms, Duke St, Kington, 7.30pm, free. email kingtonfolkclub@gmail.com

2nd Thursday OPEN MIC Hosted by Stevie Yeomans. Castle Inn, Knucklas, near Knighton, 8pm, 01547 528150.

2nd Thursday OPEN FOLK SESSION Horse & Jockey, Churchstoke, 8.30pm, all welcome, free, 01588 620060.

3rd Thursday FOLK SESSION

Calling all folk musicians and enthusiasts. Sun Inn, Leintwardine, 7pm, 01547 540705.

3rd Thursday FOLK DOWN THE TRACK Castle Inn, Knucklas, 7pm, 01547 528223 or 01547 528150.

4th Thurs OPEN MIC The Barley Mow, Trefonen, 7.30pm, 07751 420796 to book your slot.

1st Friday ACOUSTIC SESSION The Monkland Arms, Monkland, near Leominster, 01568 720510.

1st Friday ACOUSTIC SESSION The Blue Boar, Mill St, Ludlow, 8:30pm. Contact: Ann Gray 01584 879 348.

3rd Friday OPEN MIC NIGHT The Herb Garden Community Cafe, Llandrindod Wells, 7.30pm, 01597 823082.

Last Friday OPEN MIC NIGHT With Mark from the Rhythm Thieves. Sun Inn, Leintwardine, 8.30pm, 01568 770134.

band directory

ADD A BAND - Real instrument backing to your own music. Perfect for singer songwriters etc. Studio near Newtown. www.addaband.co.uk, 07515 401635.

APPLEBY STONE Live acoustic duo/trio, guitar, flute, saxophones, voices, double bass, jazz, folk, R&B, pop, many originals, perfect for private and public events. applebystone.com 07979 542 449.

BAGPIPES Authentic Highland music for your formal event or gathering from international piper Keith Wellings. Keith is a former British diplomat bringing Scotland’s music to festivals, theatres, balls, weddings and funerals. Contact by phone 07580 389903, email keiththepiper@gmail.com facebook keith.wellings instagram keiththepiper

BANDAMANIA Community band playing wild and wonderful traditional music. Perfect for ceilidhs, parties and all sorts of local events. Sue Harris 01547 550158 sumarieharris@btinternet.com

BEST FOOT CEILIDH BAND The hottest dance band on the borders + caller. Available for weddings, barn dances and parties. Contact: 07969 440183 or john@johnhymas. com

HOT CLIMATE Ultimate party band, best 6-piece line up ever. For top musical entertainment at your party/ wedding/festival or corporate function. Book now! New footage on www.hotclimate.co.uk. Contact Charlie 01568 613895 or mobile 07702 528088 anytime!

LITTLE RUMBA This is a band that will entertain and delight any audience that has its wits about it and has an ear for beautiful melodies infectious beats and songs that tell stories. From Winchcombe Live “Absolutely fantastic evening from you guys tonight. We had so many positive comments from the audience; very gratifying! Great musical talent, great humour, variety, and warmth of performance.”

Contact Jacqui Savage 07966 943314 Email –jaxbass.xs@btinternet.com http://www.littlerumba.com

THE LUDLOW JAZZ COLLECTIVE Local Quartet/Quintet with singer if required, playing smooth sounds of well-known standards, Latin and blues. Available for all types of events and celebrations. Contact Paul Brooks 07980 822014. pppbrooks@gmail. com

MELOMANICS A wacky, Shropshire-based Duo with an amazingly dynamic sound, playing their eclectic and cosmopolitan repertoire with engaging humour and infectious energy (sustainable). Far more than just great music. And stilts if appropriate. Find out how much fun a ceilidh can be with Tim calling and playing. Ideal for parties, weddings, fund-raising events, festivals, shows, pubs, restaurants, etc. Scottish, Irish and French-themed specialities (Timoléon pour vos soirées francaises). For more info call Tim on 01743 719438, or Rich on 01743 718612. Email: tim@melomanics.co.uk

Website: www.melomanics.co.uk

MODE-X Female fronted Party/function band, playing a diverse and up to date range of pop/rock by great artists/ bands like Blondie, Bonnie Raitt, PJ Harvey plus driving grooves from the post punk era like Elvis Costello, XTC, Martha & The Muffins etc. We can supply all the logistics to support and enhance your party/function.

“Professional purveyors of punchy pop rock”. Sue 07397 188543.

NICK AND JANE – The Poptastic duo bring you the greatest hits of the 60’s, 70’s and more. Great harmonies and infectious enthusiasm to make your event a memorable success. Perfect for parties, pubs, festivals and weddings. Facebook @nickandjane email: nickandjaneH@gmail.com or call Jane on 07512 368433.

THE RAGTIME JUG ORCHESTRA A roots string-band (duo) recreating the sounds of the early 20th century America, playing a good-time mix of blues, skiffle and Americana music. We like to get audiences involved! Available for festival, events, parties, folk clubs, pubs and bars; performance presentations and workshops for all occasions too. Web: www.ragtimejug.co.uk Contact: John; 01594 861151. Email: info@ragtimejug.co.uk Facebook.com: ragtime jug orchestra.

RHYTHM THIEVES Funky, folky and fun. Firm favourites at festivals, pubs, parties and events around the Midlands and beyond, Rhythm Thieves are a lively must-see band who deliver an unforgettable and highly entertaining night out. “Full of fire and enthusiasm” Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2 “Great, super, lovely - our resident band” Genevieve Tudor. BBC Radio Midlands Folk Show. “If they don’t make you smile, you’re probably dead.” Wheaton Aston Folk Festival Tel: 01568 770 134, e-mail rhythmthieves@hotmail.com

THE ROTUNDAS are a pair of jolly chaps who sing and play contemporary versions of industrial and social folk songs from Birmingham and the Black Country. Listen on Soundcloud https://soundcloud.com/therotundas and contact us at our Facebook page @TheRotundas or email therotundasband@gmail.com

SHRED BELLY Ludlow/Shropshire based acoustic duo, playing covers of popular ‘Dad’s Rock’ songs from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and more. Full band can also be available. All bookings and enquiries please contact: Kevin on 07873 426205 or Paul on 07957 247851.

SILVER BRANCH (Ceilidh and Concert Band).

CEILIDH BAND with caller. Available for weddings/ birthday parties/fund raisers, etc. For photos/videos please see our Facebook page. For further enquiries, ring David on 01981 540832 or Anna on 07980 961187.

SILVER BRANCH (UN-CALLED FOR) - Five piece cutting edge instrumental Folk Band. Concerts/gigs.

SIMON THE PIPER Highland Piper with 20 years experience. Available for all occasions - weddings, funerals, Burn’s Night, Hogmanay, festivals, processions etc. Based in Hereford. Call 07791 045831 or facebook. com/simonthepiper Email simonthepiper@hotmail.com

SINGLED OUT Experienced, 3-piece band covering the best pop and rock music from the 50’s to the current era. We focus on great tunes that don’t usually get played by other bands, but which everyone will know. Of course, we do some of the more usual songs as well! www.singledoutband.com email: info@singledoutband. com Phone 07518 291 676.

SIR DANCELOT 4/5 piece ceilidh/twmpath band with caller. Far and away the best exponents of traditional dance music of the British Isles and beyond for miles around and leagues beneath. Concertina, mandolin, fiddles, whistles, cittern, jews harp... Available for weddings, parties and public events. For information and bookings, contact: Matt 01686 412 753 or 07843 440 789. www.sirdancelot.co.uk

THE CARDBOARD BOX THIEVES A three piece music band based in Builth Wells. Songs accompanied by accordion, banjo and guitar. Let us entertain you with a selection of our own songs handcrafted and presented as musical stories. 07966 401731. See more on https://facebook.com/CBThieves

THE CHERRYSTONES are Aly (whistles, flute, accordion, vocals), Matt (bass, foot drum, vocals) and Dave (guitar, bouzouki, mandolin, vocals) who bring you a mix of original and traditional folk songs and tunes. From thoughtful, well-crafted songs to infectious uptempo Irish whistle tunes, we will warm your heart and stir your souls and soles! Contact : Dave 07817 220016, dgand2@btinternet.com. Find us here Facebook.com The Cherrystones. Website coming soon!

THE VILLAGE QUIRE spine-tingling harmonies sung with all the emotional clout, subtlety of expression and love of life that you get when voices are raised together in song. Sensational vocals mingled with enthralling stories. Various shows to book. For bookings / further info ring 01497 847676 www.villagequire.org.uk / www.songsforsilas.org.uk

UNDAUNTED Female influenced indie rock band hailing from South Shropshire. This lively 4 piece brings you strong vocals, great rocking sound, fun and always something different from the norm. Available for weddings, parties and funchtions. For information and booking contact Tracey 07547188402 or Liz 07807 531151. Enquiries welcome.

WHISKEY RIVER is a 5/6 piece electric Americana band that play swamp blues, Cajun, Zydeco and good country music to set the dance floor rocking. To suit smaller venues and smaller budgets, pruned down acoustic versions of the band are available as “The Whiskey River Quartet”, “The Whiskey River Trio” or as a Duo [“The Whiskey River Boys”]. Laissez les bon temps rouler!! Contact Martin, phone: 07846 669890, 01432 342018. Email: martin@whiskeyriver.co.uk. Website: www.whiskeyriver.co.uk

Band Directory

ONLY £40 FOR THE WHOLE YEAR

Just call Clare on 07786 131159 or email: info@broadsheep.com

DON’T FORGET... if you have any gigs in the area, email/phone by the 15th of the preceding month for FREE LISTINGS.

VENUES

ALBERT HALL, Ithon Rd, Llandrindod Wells 0300 102 4255

ASSEMBLY ROOMS, Mill Street, Ludlow 01584 878141

BARRELS, St Owen Street, Hereford 01432 274968

BASKERVILLE ARMS, Clyro, near Hay-on-Wye 01497 820670.

BASKERVILLE HALL HOTEL, Clyro Court, near Hay-on-Wye 01497 820033.

BELL HOTEL, Commercial St, Newtown 01686 625540

BELL INN, Etnam St, Leominster 01568 616811

THE BRIDGE HOTEL, Tenbury Wells 01584 810434

THE BRIDGE, Ludlow 01584 872963

BLACK LION, Bridge St, Hereford, 01432 266000

CARAD, East St, Rhayader, 01597 810192

CENTRE CELF, Tremont Rd, Llandrindod Wells 01597 822777

CHARLTON ARMS, Ludlow, 01584 872813

THE CLIFFE AT DINHAM, Halton Lane, Ludlow 01584 872063

CONQUEST THEATRE, Bromyard, 01885 488575

THE COURTYARD, Edgar St, Hereford. 01432 340555

THE DUKES ARMS, Presteigne 01544 267318

DUN COW, Shrewsbury 01743 356408

THE EXCHANGE, Newtown 01686 621814.

GLEANINGS, near Bishop’s Castle, 01743 891412

THE GLOBE AT HAY, Hay-on-Wye 01497 821762

THE GOLDEN CROSS INN, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford 01432 880274.

GORDON BENNETTS BAR, St Peter’s Square, Hereford, 01432 360250.

GRAPE VAULTS, Broad St, Leominster 01568 611404.

THE HARP INN, Glasbury-on-Wye 01497 847373

THE HERDSMAN, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 01432 277330

HOPE & ANCHOR, Rope Walk, Wye St, Ross-on-Wye. 01989 563003.

HUNDRED HOUSE INN, Purslow, 01588 660541

KNIGHTON & DISTRICT COMMUNITY CENTRE, Knighton 07751 221487.

THE LAKESIDE CAFÉ, Llandrindod Wells, 01597 825679

LICHFIELD VAULTS, Church St, Hereford. 01432 266821

LION BALLROOM, Broad St, Leominster. 01568 612277

LUDLOW BREWING COMPANY, The Railway Shed, Ludlow 01584 873291

THE MALTHOUSE, Ironbridge, 01952 433712

MINER’S ARMS, Priest Weston 01938 561352

NELSON INN, Ludlow 01584 872908

OAKENGATES THEATRE, Telford. 01952 619020

THE OLD MILL, High Street, Llanidloes 01686 412008

THE OXFORD ARMS, Duke St, Kington 01544 230322

PAVILION MID WALES, Llandrindod Wells 01597 258118

THE PLOUGH INN, Whitecross Road, Hereford 01432 358867

REET PETITE, 18 West St, Leominster 07484 545368. ROSE & CROWN, Tenbury Wells, 01584 811336

ROYAL FOUNTAIN, Cleobury Mortimer 01299 272720

THEATR BRYCHEINIOG, Canal Wharf, Brecon 01874 611622

THE HAFREN, Llanidloes Road, Newtown 01686 614555

THE TOWN HALL, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630023

THREE TUNS, Bishop’s Castle. 01588 638797

THE VICTORY, 88 St Owen St, Hereford 01432 274998

VOLUNTEER, Harold St, Hereford 01432 276189.

WHITEHORSE INN, The Square, Clun. 01588 640305. WHITE SWAN, Eardisland, 01544 388577

WYESIDE ARTS CENTRE, Builth Wells, 01982 552555

PERFORMANCE

April ONE OF THEM ONES

PENTABUS THEATRE. A new play about two siblings living in a rural community trying to get their heads around gender identity. 15 April - Presteigne Assembly Rooms, 8pm, £12.50, www.midborderarts.com. 19 April - Hereford College of Arts, 7.30pm, £12.50, 01584 856564.

21 April - Malvern Cube Community Centre, 7.30pm, 01684 575363. 28 April - Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 1pm & 7.30pm, £14, 01874 611622. www.pentabus.co.uk

Sat 1 April

THE SWEARING JAR

Local touring theatre company. Malvern Cube, WR14 2YF, 7.30pm, £12, www.malverncube.com

Sat 1 April

CHARLIE’S BIG NIGHT

Comedy, spoken word and music. The Muse, Old Museum, Glamorgan St, Brecon, show starts 8pm, food and drink from 7pm, £20 with food, 07791 654799.

Sat 1 April

WELSH WRESTLING

The Pavilion, Llandrindod Wells, 7pm, 01597 258118, www.pavilionmidwales.org.uk

Tues 4 - Sat 8 April

THE BEEKEEPER OF ALEPPO

Telling the story of Nuri, a beekeeper and his wife, Afra, an artist. They live a simple life, rich in family and friends. When all they care for is destroyed by war, they are forced to escape... Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £41.50-£19, 01743 281281.

Wed 5 April

HOW TO BE HAPPY

THEATR WILDCATS is an inclusive theatre group for adults with learning disabilities who devise their performances based on life experiences. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7pm, £6.40, 01874 611622.

Sat 8 April

EARWIG

TIME AND AGAIN THEATRE COMPANY. Funny and fast-paced, Earwig combines the world of entomology with Marigold’s fight to be heard amidst the world of flappers, jazz and an overbearing husband. For ages 14+. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.30pm, £12, students £8, 07967 517125. Arts Alive.

Wed 12 April

KATE MOSSE

Part detective story, part love letter to history, packed with fun facts as Kate shares stories of the most inspiring women throughout history. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £30, 01743 281281.

Wed 12 - Sat 15 April

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

THE COURTYARD JUNIOR YOUTH THEATRE present a brand new production of CS Lewis’ timeless tale. A family show that will entertain all ages. The Courtyard, Hereford, 2pm & 7pm, 01432 340555.

Fri 14 & Sat 15 April

SENSE AND SENSIBILITY

HOTBUCKLE PRODUCTIONS. With live music, mulitiple characterisation, humour and inventiveness, yet another English classic novel brought wonderfully to life. For ages 10+. 14 April - Alveley Parish Memorial Hall, 7.30pm, £12/£6/£30, 01746 780478. 15 April - Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, £12/£6, 01885 488575. Arts Alive.

Thurs 20 April

FAULTY TOWERS

The original dining experience. The Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 7.45pm, 07498 966606.

Fri 21 April

A ROOM OF ONE’S OWN

The award-winning creators of Female Gothic, Orlando, Elizabeth, Christmas Gothic and Austen’s Women return with a 21st century take on Virginia Woolf’s celebrated pre-TED talk. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7.30pm, £18, 01584 878141.

Fri 21 April

PRISCILLA: QUEEN OF THE DISASTER

With writer and performer Susie Corcoran. A brutally honest performance about being a mum. With tears streaming down your face, laugh along with sometimes savage experiences that can be motherhood. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.

Sun 23 April

WILLOW GLOBE ANNUAL GET TOGETHER

Come along for tea and cake to find out more about Willow Globe and how to get involved with Shakespeare Link and Willow Globe. Words, music and a medley of ad hoc performances. Home-made cake, bar available. Willow Globe, Llanwrthwl, Llandrindod Wells, 3-6pm, free, 01597 811487, www.shakespearelink.org.uk

The Beekeeper of Aleppo

Earwig

Tues 25 - Sat 29 April

SWEENEY TODD

CURTAIN CALL THEATRE COMPANY with the dark, witty and Tony Award winning tale of love, murder and revenge set against the backdrop of 19th century London. Amateur production. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm & 2.30pm, £19.50, 01743 281281.

Sat 29 April

AN EVENING OF MAGIC WITH RICHARD JONES

The only magician to ever win Britain’s Got Talent. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, 01600 719401.

Tues 2 - Sun 7 May

THE NATIONAL THEATRE OF CONNECTIONS FESTIVAL

The National Theatre’s annual, nationwide youth theatre festival. Connections commission new plays for young people to perform, championing the talent of young people from across the UK. Including Saturday night party, hosted by Theatr Brycheiniog’s Young Music Promoters. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 01874 611622.

Fri 5 May

Y MAB DAROGAN

CWMNI THEATRE MALDWYN. The company are touring a new production, centred on the uprising of Owain Glyndwr, one of our foremost heroes. The Hafren Theatr, Newtown, £16/£13, 01686 948100.

MUSICAL THEATRE & OPERA

Sat 1 April

EVITA

MONMOUTH MUSIC THEATRE. The colour and excitement of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic musical. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £15/£12, 01600 772467.

Sat 1 April

SUNSHINE ON LEITH

SHREWSBURY MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY present the singalong musical with a soundtrack from The Proclaimers. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2pm, £21-£15, 01743 281281.

Mon 10 - Wed 12 April

CHICAGO: TEEN EDITION

GET YOUR WIGLE ON teen group with one of the most successful musicals of all time. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £18.50/£16.50, 01743 281281.

Wed 12 April

DREAMCOAT STARS

A musical evening of West End and Broadway classics. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £26, 01743 281281.

Fri 14 - Sun 16 April

SHREK JR

GET YOUR WIGLE ON are venturing back into the swamp for a show that is Ogre flowing with fun and musical charm. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 1pm, £.30pm & 7pm, £16.50/£15, 01743 281281.

Sat 22 April

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL 2

‘Cruising Through Menopause’. Starring Mary Byrne, Jessica Martin, Rebecca Wheatley and Suzie Fenwick. For ages 16+. The Courtyard, Hereford, 4pm & 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Wed 26 - Sat 29 April

WHISTLE DOWN THE WIND

OUR STAR THEATRE COMPANY & THE MARKET

THEATRE. Lloyd Webber’s musical, based on the novel by Mary Hayley Bell takes this classic story to 1959

Louisiana. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.30pm and 2.30pm Sat, £14, students £10, 07967 517125.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE

Sat 1 & Sun 2 April

THE JUNGLE BOOK

IMMERSION THEATRE. Filled with original music, audience interaction and bags of comedy. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 12.30pm & 3.30pm, £13/£11, 01743 281281.

Tues 4 April

THE GROW SHOW

Follow the year in the life of a puppet garden, wiggle with the worms and sing along with the veg. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 11am & 3pm, £7, 01584 878141.

Thurs 6 April

I SPY WITH MY LITTLE EYE

Molly and Bingo the puppy are having a birthday party, with treasure hunts, sing-along songs and lots of games to play. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2.30pm, £12, 01874 611622.

Thurs 6 - Sat 8 April

THE HUG

LONG NOSE PUPPETS LTD. Based on the book Hedgehog and Tortoise are in search of a restorative hug. Beautiful puppets and witty music, fun, laughter and love. For ages 2-8 years. Arts Alive.

6 April - The Hive, Shrewsbury, 11am, £10, 01743 234970.

7 April - Llanymynech Village Hall, 2.30pm, £7.50, 01691 839147. 8 April - SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 11am, £8, family £35, 01588 630321.

The Grow Show

Thurs 6 April

CARTOON CIRCUS LIVE

Laughter-packed show combines the comedy of pantomime with the thrill of the circus. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 1.30pm, £12, under 16s £10, 01600 772467.

Thurs 13 April

THE AMAZING BUBBLE MAN

Louis Pearl explores the breath-taking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2pm, £13, 01874 611622.

Sat 22 April

LITTLE BO PEEP

Featuring magnificent puppets, scenery and of course lots of music and singing. For ages 2-7 years. The Courtyard, Hereford, 11am, free pre-activity from 10.30am: Make Bo Peep a new dress. 01432 340555.

Sat 29 April

SNOW WHITE

NYP MUSICAL THEATRE GROUP. A wickedly fun family pantomime. The Hafren Theatre, Newtown, £15/£13, 01686 948100.

DRAMA WORKSHOPS

COURTYARD THEATRE, HEREFORD

Sat - Junior Yourth Theatre. Year 3: 9.15am. Year 4: 10.15am. Year 5: 11.15am. Year 6: 12.15pm. Year 7: 1.45pm. Year 8: 3pm. Year 9: 4.45pm, £68.50 per term. Wed - Intermediate Youth Theatre. Year 10 & 11, 5.15pm, £70.50 per term. Fri - Senior Youth Theatre for Year 12+, 7pm, £73.50 per term. Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

COMMUNITY YOUTH THEATRES

The Conquest, Bromyard. Mon - Juniors, Year 3-6: 4.30pm, £39 per term. Intermediates, Year 7-9: 7.15pm, £43 per term. Seniors, Year 10+: 7.30pm, £46 per term.

The Phoenix Theatre, Ross-on-Wye. Sat - Juniors, Year 8-14: 10am, £39 per term. Market Theatre, Ledbury. Mon - Intermediates, Year 7-9: 7.30pm, £39 per term. Seniors, Year 10+: 8.30pm, £39 per term. Details email takepart@courtyard.org.uk or 01432 346526.

THEATR IEUENTID / BRYCHEINIOG YOUTH THEATRE

With weekly sessions tailored to suit the needs of each year group, from 4 years and up. Mondays 3.45pm4.45pm Roundabout, Reception & Years 1 & 2.

Wednesdays 5pm - 6pm Junior Youth, Years 3,4 & 5.

Wednesdays 6pm - 7pm Junior Youth, Years 6,7 & 8.

Thursdays 8.30pm - 10pm Senior Youth, Years 9, 10 & 11, 16 - 25. Call 01874 611622, www.brycheiniog.co.uk

ASSEMBLY ROOMS, LUDLOW Mon - Go MAD in Ludlow, 5-6.30pm, Oscars. Contact Simon 07506 478235 & Suzanne 07484 289215 or email

hello@gomadinludlow.org Sat - Ludwig Academy of Musical Theatre. 7-11 years 1-2pm, 12-16 years 2-3pm. Oscars. Contact Jack Ludwig, 077922 66225. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow.

Tuesdays YOUTH CAFE A safe place where young people can meet and share creative activites including music, drama and films. For ages 8-16 years, free. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 01743 234970

Tuesdays YOUTH THEATRE For 7-14 year-olds after school. Ledbury Market Theatre, 01432 383663.

Wednesdays KINGTON YOUTH THEATRE

Kington Primary School. Wed - Junior 7-11 years, 4-5.30pm. Intermediate 11+ 5.30-7pm. £42 per term, 01432 340555.

Thursdays (term time) SHROPSHIRE YOUTH THEATRE

Seniors, 7-9.30pm, 14-25 years. All welcome. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury. www.shropshireyouththeatre.co.uk

Thursdays IMPULSIVE THEATRE COMPANY

For ages 13-19. The Hive, 5 Belmont, Shrewsbury, 5-6.45pm, 07916 277928.

Thursdays Fortnightly HAVE A GO SHAKESPEARE

At Willow Globe, Llanwrthwl, Llandrindod Wells, LD1 6NN, 2-4.30pm, £6 per session, info@shakespearelink.org.uk for details.

Thursdays Fortnightly (term time) HAVE A GO SHAKESPEARE All welcome, 10.30am-1.30pm, £7. Wyeside, Builth Wells, info@shakespearelink.org.uk.

Saturdays (term time) SHROPSHIRE YOUTH THEATRE Beginners 9.30am-10.45am, 6-8 year olds.

Juniors 11am-1pm, 9-12 year olds. The Hive, Shrewsbury, www.shropshireyouththeatre.co.uk

AARDVARK BOOKS & CAFE

Website: www.aardvark-books.com

50,000+ titles; North Herefordshire’s largest indie bookseller; We buy books

Specialist in art, design, photography, history, gardening

Also open our superb CAFÉ!

The Bookery, Manor Farm, Brampton Bryan, Bucknell, SY7 0DH Off A4113 Knighton Road. Tel: 01547 530744

aardvaark@btconnect.com www.aardvark-books.com

Bookshop open to visitors Tues-Sun 10am-4pm.

Saturday 8th April, 10am-4pm

THE AARDVARK EASTER EVENT

Over 20 stalls of fantastic Carbootery, plus plants from the Cottage Herbery, live music from Red Madog, hot food and much more. Stalls £12 each, bookable in advance.

Saturday 8th - Sun 16th April

‘THE EXPLOSION OF SUMMER’ - EXHIBITION

The extraordinary art of Reta Summers Cowley. What a perfect start to Spring 2023!

The Hug

Poetry & Storytelling

Sat 15 April

HENRY NORMAL: COLLECTED POEMS AND OTHER LANDFILL

Henry is a writer, poet, TV and Film producer, founder of the Manchester Poetry Festival and co-founder of the Nottinham Poetry Festival. Expect a mixture of the absurd and downright wacky... a gentle giant of stand-up poetry. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £18, 01600 772467.

Mon 17 April

RED PARROT POETRY

With readings from poets Vuyelwa Carlin and Rhiannon Hooson, as well as Roger Garfitt who will talk about the work of his late wife, Frances Horovitz. No. 46 (The Wine Bar), High St, Presteigne, 7pm, £5 on the door, half the takings will be donated to Ukrainian refugees.

Comedy

Sat 1 April

FARCICAL COMEDY AT THE LEFT BANK VILLAGE

Featuring Bethany Black, Jamie Hutchinson and Callum Oakley. Speakeasy, The Left Bank, Bridge St, Hereford, 7.30pm, £15, www.theleftbankvillage.co.uk

Sat 1, Thurs 13 & Sat 22 April

AN EVENING AND A LITTLE BIT OF MORNING WITH MARK STEEL

There is so much to yell about. There’s the modern world in which you spend so long trying to work out iTunes, that it’s easier to form a band and learn the songs.

1 April - The Hafren, Newtown, 8pm, £18, 01686 948100. 13 April - Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, £15, 01873 850805. 22 April - Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 8pm, £17, 01600 772467.

Sat 1 & Sun 2 April

HAL CRUTTENDEN: IT’S BEST YOU HEAR IT FROM ME

After 21 years and 224 days, Hal’s back being single. He’s lost enough weight to almost get his wedding ring off... For ages 14+. 1 April - Wyeside, Builth Wells, 8pm, £19, 01982 552555. 2 April - Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 8pm, £19, 01600 772467.

Sat 8 April

GARY DELANEY: GARY IN PUNDERLAND

Get ready to dive into a rabbit hole of the best jokes in the world. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 8pm, 01584 811442

Fri 14 April

AXEL BLAKE

Britain’s Got Talent 2022 winner. For ages 16+. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, 01743 281281.

Fri 14 April

WESTON’S CIDER COMEDY CLUB

Laugh out loud comedy from some of the hottest up and coming comedians on the circuit. For ages 18+ only. The Courtyard, Hereford, 8.30pm, 01432 340555.

Sun 16 April

SIMON BRODKIN

World-famous prankster and comedian on TikTok, back for a new stand-up show. For ages 14+. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 8pm, £24, 01743 281281.

Sun 16 April

CHRIS MCCAUSLAND: SPEAKY BLINDER

Star of The Royal Variety Performance, Would I Lie to You?, Have I Got New for You, QI and Live at the Apollo. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, 01600 719401.

Wed 26 April

PAUL SMITH - JOKER

Scouse funny man mixes his trade mark audience interaction with more hilarious true stories. For ages 14+. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £26.50, 01743 281281.

Fri 28 April

MARCUS BRIGSTOCKE

The master of satirical comedy, Marcus has proved to be blisteringly funny over a wide range of topics. The Courtyard, Hereford, 8pm, 01432 340555.

Sun 30 April

SEVERN JESTERS

Discover the new stars of stand-up and the best from the fringe. For ages 18+. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 8pm £12, 01743 281281.

Talks

Every day from 1 April - 31 October

HEREFORD GUILD OF GUIDES

Guided tours around Hereford. Also pre-booked themed walks for groups all year round. Mon-Sat 11.30am, Sun 2.30pm (approx 1.5 hours). Tickets from the Cathedral Shop and meet at Cathedral main entrance, Adults £6, children 6-12 years £1, 07947 924494, www.herefordguidedwalks.org.uk

Chris McCausland

Sat 1 April

HEREFORD WEA

‘Silurian Period’. A geology talk by Dave Green. Saxon Hall, Hereford, 10am-1pm, booking essential. www.wea.org.uk

Sun 2 April

THE LOST RAINFORESTS OF BRITAIN

An illustrated talk by Guy Shrubsole. Museum of Modern Art, Machynlleth, 1.30pm, £5, 01654 703355.

Sun 2 April

BOOK LAUNCH

‘All the Wide Border’. Mike Parker. Museum of Modern Art, Machynlleth, 7pm, £5, 01654 703355.

Wed 5 April

EASTER & ISLAM

A talk by Professor David Thomas, Emeritus Professor of Christianity and Islam. St Mary’s Church, Ross-on-Wye, 7pm, £5, www.rossparishes.uk or on the door.

Sun 9 April

JODY WHITE

Jody speaks to local writer Ian Marchant about his debut book Chimera with a Q&A and a musical interlude from guitarists Jon and Rob. Chimera ia an alchemical dive into teenage illness - a near-death initiation framed by the innate, mythic stories that touch all our lives. The Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, 3pm, £7.

Sun 9 April

SURREALISM IN WALES

Talks and debate. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 12pm, 01497 821762.

Thurs 13 April & Thurs 11 May

GOING WILD IN BISHOP’S CASTLE

Winter talks. Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 7pm, donation box at entrance, no pre-booking required, bar available.

Fri 14 - Sun 16 April

BEATLES FEST TENBURY

‘Before Abbey Road there was Teme Street... Celebrating 60 years since The Beatles played at Tenbury’.

14 April - ‘A Twist & Shout in Tenbury Wells with Beatles historian, Mark Lewisohn’, 6pm, £10, discount ticket on every 2nd ticket.

14 April - ‘Roger McGough: Alive and Gigging’, The show takes the audience on a journey back to key moments of his life in Liverpool before WWII, with memories and poems, 8pm, £17.50, discount on every 2nd ticket.

15 April - ‘A Day in the life of The Beatles with Andrew Lowe’. This lively account, part factual, part fiction will take you back to the birth of the pop culture and forward to all that followed. 11am, £5, discount on 2nd ticket. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 01584 811442.

Fri 14 April

COLOUR - SPACE - LIGHT WITH LOTHAR GÖTZ

Lothar Götz talks about his work which involves creating artworks for historic galleries. Clore Learning Space, Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, £10, 01497 820079.

Sat 15 April

THE FEVER OF THE WORLD

Author Phil Rickman talks about his latest Merrily Watkins novel, set in the Wye Valley. St Mary’s Church, Ross-onWye, 6pm, £8 on the door.

Sat 15 April

HARDY PLANT SOCIETY

‘Hardy Geraniums, The Good, The Bad and the Ugly’. A talk given by Sue Clarke. Pembridge Village Hall, 2pm, £5, www.hmwhps.org.uk 07711 719505.

Tues 18 April

ART AND CLIMATE ROUNDTABLE

Featuring voices from leading artists and hosted by Andy Fryers. The Art House, University of Worcester, 5-8pm, free in-person and online via zoom. Tickets can be booked at www.meadowarts.org

Tues 18 April

LUDLOW & MARCHES HUMANISTS

‘Why is Pope Francis special?’ An informal talk by ` Father Christopher Walsh of St Peter’s Catholic Church, Ludlow, followed by Q&A. The Friends Meeting House, St Mary’s Lane, Ludlow, 7.30pm, 01568 770282.

Tues 18 April

WILD LABYRINTH: EMBODYING THE CREATOR OF THE MAPPA MUNDI

Lecture by Kate Innes. College Hall, Hereford Cathedral, 7pm, £10, www.herefordcathedral.org

Jody White

Wed 19 April

CONVERSATIONS AT THE CHAPEL - JACKIE KAY

In conversation with Alistair Laurence. Jackie has been the National Poet of Scotland and a writer. She was former Chancellor of the University of Salford and is currently Professor of Creative Writing at Newcastle University. The Art Shop & Chapel, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £12, 01873 852690.

Wed 19 April

TRACY BORMAN

Royal Historian, broadcaster and Chief Curator of Hampton Court and The Tower of London. A gripping 1000 year tour of the Kings and Queens including the good, the bad, the great and the mad. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £27, 01743 281281.

Wed 19 April

LEOMINSTER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

‘The Medieval Stained Glass of Herefordshire & Shropshire’, a talk by Rob Walker. Grange Court, Leominster, 7.30pm, members free, visitors £4 at the door.

Fri 21 April

HEREFORD ARTS APPRECIATION SOCIETY

‘Singing for a Trio of Conductors’. Pamela White is a leading figure in Hereford’s musical activities. Office Q, Kindle Centre, Hereford, 2.30pm.

Fri 21 April

TRACY BORMAN: HOW TO BE A GOOD MONARCH

‘1000 years of Kings and Queens: The good, the bad, the great and the mad!’ Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, £25, 01874 611622.

Sat 22 April

ADAM FROST

Join award-winning British garden designer and Gardeners’ World present. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £32, 01743 281281.

Wed 26 April

SOUTH WEST SHROPSHIRE GARDENING CLUB

‘The Gardens of the Arts and Crafts Movement’. A talk by Richard Rallings (Mynd Hardy Plants). Lydbury North Village Hall, 7.30pm, £5 visitors, www.gardeningshropshire.co.uk

Wed 26 April

THE REIGN - PART ONE

Matthew Engel will talk about his new book, The Reign Part One - the first part of his sweeping social history of modern Britain during the reign of Elizabeth II. St Mary’s Church, Ross-on-Wye, 7pm, £8 on the door.

Wed 26 April

MATILDA DE BRAOSE - LADY OF MAGNA CARTA

A talk on the Lady who built Hay Castle, by Sharon Bennett Connolly. Clore Learning Space, Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, £10, 01497 820079.

Thurs 27 April

ARTS SOCIETY MID WALES & BORDERS

‘Erdigg - the Jewel in the Crown of Welsh Country Houses’, a talk by Jill Bruton. Powis Suite, Royal Oak Hotel, Welshpool, 2.30pm, visitors £6, 01938 555574.

Thurs 27 April

MARK LABBETT: MEET & BEAT THE BEAST

An evening of fun, challenging interaction with the most iconic quizzing personality on TV. The second half of the evening will be an interactive quiz for all the audience. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Fri 28 April

A TALE OF TWO CITIES WITH PAUL HILLS

‘Colour in Florence and Venice’. How does Bellini’s colour differ from Botticelli’s? Clore Learning Space, Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, £10, 01497 820079.

Sat 29 April

GUIDE TO THE ORGANS

Join Geraint Bowen, Peter Dyke and Evie Perfect for this fun and informative guide to the organs. Hereford Cathedral, 11.30am, free with no booking required.

Workshops & Courses

LEDBURY YOUNG POETS COMPETITION‘EARTHWORDS’

Invites 5-18 year olds to explore the natural world prompted by the theme ‘Earthwords’. Open to anyone living in Herefordshire, Worcestershire & Gloucestershire. (5-11 and 12-18). Poems can be entered online at www.ledburypoetry.org.uk and the winners will be announced during Ledbury Poetry Festival on 1 July.

ITALIAN LESSONS ON-LINE FOR ADULTS –ONE-TO-ONE or SMALL GROUPS

Learn or improve your Italian from the comfort of your home with Lorenzo, your local native Italian tutor and language specialist. Conversational Italian, Beginners Italian, Improvers Italian, Advanced Italian, Italian culture and food.Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday: On-line only. Thursday morning: In-person group conversation meetings and workshops in Hereford. For more info, call Lorenzo on 01432 870661, WhatsApp +441432870661, or email italian@italianwords.co.uk

Visit www.italianwords.co.uk/tuition.html

WHY VOLUNTEER FOR OXFAM HAY ON WYE?

People become Oxfam volunteers for all sorts of reasons. No-one can bring the same skills, passion and personality that you can. And, because you’ll be working with Oxfam, with your community, and with so many like minded people, the impact you’ll have will be greater than anyone could achieve alone. Ask in-store to find out more or visit oxfam.org.uk/jointheteam

Sat 1 April HEREFORD WEA

‘Hereford in the Silurian Period’. A geology talk by Dave Green. Saxon Hall, Hereford, 10am-1pm, £15, booking essential, 0300 346303, www.wea.org.uk

Mon 3 - Thurs 12 April BOOK, CD & DVD SALE

Second hand books, DVDs and CDs. Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle. Open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm, 01588 630023.

Fri 3, 9, 16 & 23 April

NATURE WRITING WORKSHOPS

All levels welcome to these creative writing workshops. For ages 16+. Booking essential. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 10am-11.30am, free, 01743 234970.

Fri 7 April (monthly on the first Friday)

POT AND PAGE BOOK CLUB

A meal inspired by the book will be served during the evening and our all local bar will be open serving literary cocktails until close. www.potandpage.co.uk. Pot & Page, 8 New St, Ledbury, 7pm, 01531 248743.

Sat 15 & Sun 16 April

LEGEND, MYTH & HISTORY: HISTORICAL FICTION MASTERCLASS FOR WRITERS

With Barbara Erskine and Katherine Stansfield. Learn about research strategies and creating compelling characters of the past. Clore Learning Space, Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye, £125, teas/coffees provided, 01497 820079.

Sat 15 April

GET YOUR WORDS OUT!

If you are a writer and would love to read your work in public and suffer from glossophobia, then Cheryl Powell, can help. Ledbury Poetry House, 10am-3pm, £30, www.ledburypoetry.org.uk

Tues 25 April

LEDBURY POETRY ONLINE READING GROUP

April book: ‘I’m OK, I’m Pig!’ by Kim Hyesoon. Friendly and informal, 6.30-8.30pm. Email director@ledburypoetry. org.uk for zoom link.

Until 1 July SPARKS - YOUNG WRITERS GROUP Workshop designed to develop writing skills for young people. Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, Market Square, Shrewsbury, 10.30am-12.30pm, booking essential, www.sparkwriters.org

Mondays WRITING ROOM

The Courtyard, Hereford, 6.30-8.30pm, £75 per term, 01432 340555.

Every Tues, Wed & Thurs SPANISH LESSONS FOR BEGINNERS

Tues - Advance beginners 10am-11.30am, Wed - Advance Spanish B1, 10am. Thurs - Total beginners, 10am-11.30am with Mely. Private tuitionGCSE students and A Level. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, 07837 160505. www.hayspanish.com

Every Tuesday READING ROOM

The Courtyard, Hereford, 10.30am-12.30pm, £55 per term, 01432 340555.

Last Tuesday of each month HOMEND POETS

Share words written by themselves or others. Music, good company and food. No booking required. Pot & Page, 8 New St, Ledbury, 6.30pm, www.potandpage.co.uk

First Wednesday of each month BABARS’ BOOK CLUB

All welcome, 6.30pm, Babar’s Cafe, Union St, Hereford, 01432 342334.

First Wednesday of the month POETRY CAFE, Charlton Arms, Ludlow, 7.30pm, 01584 872813.

Every Thursday WELSH CLASSES FOR ADULTS

Presteigne Assembly Rooms, 10.30am-3pm, 01639 841751.

Every other Thursday PHILOSOPHY CAFE

Informal group which offers the chance to discuss philosophical issues. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, 01497 821762. philosphycafe@outlook.com

Last Thursday of the month BOOK CLUB

De Koffie Pot, Bridge St, Hereford, 8pm, 01432 357753, ECStarling@theherefordacademy.org.uk

First Friday of the month BOOKCLUB DINNERS

Join Katie and the bookworms for an evening of literary delights. Each month we meet to discuss a different book and share a meal inspired by the story. Pot & Page, New St, Ledbury, 7pm, please book, www.potandpage.co.uk

Fridays READING ROOM EXTRA

The Courtyard, Hereford, 6-8pm, £55 per term, 01432 340555.

International Poetry Writers’ Collective: Abergavenny 01873 856350

Leominster Writers’ Circle, Leominster

Community Centre, Frank Pavitt, chairman LWC, 01568 614973, meet first Tuesday, monthly, 2pm. Presteigne Writers’ Circle, 3rd Thursday, Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, 01544 260398.

Do onshore turbines have a fair wind at last?

HAD planned to write about drought this month. But then I woke up to snow. I know that, in Broad Sheep country, snow often melts down to nothing in a day or two, but the weather in early March didn’t seem to be a good omen for a diatribe on drought. So, instead, I opted for onshore wind power.

Why onshore wind? Mainly because turbines erected on land, compared with the networks of structures built out in the North Sea, or somewhere off the coast of Sussex, are two or three times cheaper to build. So, they should save us all a wodge of money on our electricity bills.

It’s reported by ITV News that Rishi Sunak, long before he became prime minister, was, in his time at the treasury, a vocal supporter of onshore wind power. But Sunak, since arriving in Downing Street, is less keen to deliver on his one-time support for onshore wind. It seems he is now adhering to the maze of restrictive planning rules which have prevented any major expansion of land based wind since the days of David Cameron and the coalition of 2010 to 2015.

So, from where does this reluctance to back onshore wind originate? In the early 2000s, climate change denialism was rampant. Among those at its forefront were Tories like Nigel Lawson and his son Dominic. At that time many Tory MPs seemed petrified of their green welly brigade, fulminating against onshore wind turbines, and reluctant to stand up to them.

After 2010, during the early part of the Tory-Lib Dem coalition, over a hundred Tory MPs wrote to David Cameron demanding “a halt to the spread of onshore wind farms”. And Cameron did not need much of a push to heed what they said. In the 2015 election, the Lib Dems, who had strongly backed renewables, were almost wiped out.

However, since then, a series of severe climate crises around the world has caused even some Tory hardliners to wake up to the reality of global heating. While Scotland and Wales have shown support for renewable energy, it has taken the Tories in England some time to clock that that a large swathe of their voters, maybe over 80 per cent of them, support the spread of onshore wind. Even a right-of-centre Tory, Lord Lilley, who once seemed like a diehard climate sceptic, suggested in the Lords last year that he did not find onshore wind turbines too bad to look at. “As far as onshore wind is concerned,” said the former Tory cabinet minister, “beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, and I find windmills quite attractive— although this was not a view universally shared by my constituents.”

Now in 2023, the reluctance of Rishi Sunak to give real backing to onshore wind has been noted by some prominent figures in the food and environment lobby. In

February this year, more than a hundred of them wrote to cabinet members calling on them to lift the planning restrictions on onshore wind. The lead signatory was the celebrity chef, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall.

My family and friends know that I have never watched a TV cookery programme in my life! But FearnleyWhittingstall sounds like my kind of chef!

He writes, “Poll after poll makes it clear there is an overwhelming public majority in favour of onshore wind…yet the government apparently just doesn’t get it. They are not only totally out of sync with the people on onshore wind, they are floundering on their own commitment to net zero.”

Among other signatories are the former chief scientific advisor, Sir David King, and TV broadcasters on the environment such as Chris Packham and Liz Bonnin. The writers accuse ministers of hiding behind “obscure footnotes” in the National Planning Policy Framework which they argue will inhibit the further development of onshore wind on any great scale.

Packham, Bonnin and allies claim that only two onshore turbines were erected in England last year. Another signatory, Dale Vince, founder of the energy supplier Ecotricity, says the de facto ban on new wind turbines in England is “absurd and dishonest,” and he cites opinion polls like those outlined above.

Of course, in the early 2020s, sizeable investment in onshore wind turbines depends on to what extent wind power is taxed by the chancellor. And in mid-March, as I write, it’s risky to predict what the budget will say.

It’s also unwise to assume too much about the outcome of the next election. Labour leader Keir Starmer has voiced his disapproval of the planning restrictions blocking onshore wind. He alleges, “…they are a charter for small groups of individuals to stand in the way of secure, cheap renewable energy which brings with it a whole generation of jobs.” But will Starmer be given the chance to deliver on his enthusiasm? We’ll have to wait and see!

Julian O’Halloran

Green Events

Every day from 1 April - 31 October

HEREFORD GUILD OF GUIDES

Guided tours around Hereford. Also pre-booked themed walks for groups all year round. Mon-Sat 11.30am, Sun 2.30pm). Tickets from the Cathedral Shop and meet at Cathedral main entrance, Adults £6, children 6-12 years £1, 07947 924494. www.herefordguidedwalks.org.uk

Saturday 1 April LEOMINSTER REPAIR CAFE

Community Centre, 10-12.30. A broken toy is no joke! Other household items repaired as well for a donation. Email: rc.leominster@gmail.com

Sat 1 April SHROPSHIRE WAY 80K FESTIVAL

For runners and walkers. Five events: the mighty SW80K, The Mammothon, Half-Mammothon and Tusker’s 10K. Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, 01588 676060, www.shropshirehillsdiscoverycentre.co.uk

Mon 3 - Fri 7 & Mon 10 - Fri 14 April

EASTER HOLIDAY ACTIVITY - I SPY NATURE

Go on hunts in the meadow, observe a plant, or landscape, do a watercolour of it or start a nature journal. For 4-11 year olds. Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, 1-2.30pm, £4.50, booking essential, 01588 676060.

Tues 4, Thurs 6, Tues 11 & Thurs 13 April

A DISCOVERY SPRING CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY CLUB

Enjoy the meadows, explore nature, collect natural materials to use in crafts, start plant growing and help cook a lunchtime meal. For ages 4-11 years. Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, 9am-1pm, booking essential £9.50, includes a cooked lunch, 01588 676060.

Sat 8 April PLANT SALE

Clun Methodist Church Forecourt, 10am-12pm. Proceeds to Alzheimer’s Research & Clun Methodist Church.

Fri 21 April WORLD CURLEW DAY

An evening of music, art, science, talks and film to raise awareness of the endangered curlew. With music from Merlyn Driver’s ‘Simmerdime: Curlew Sounds’. Optional supper served from the cafe from 6.15pm. Great Hall, Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye, 6.15pm, £15, 01497 820079.

Fri 21 - Sun 23 April KINGTON SPRING WALKING FESTIVAL See www.kingtonwalks.org for details

Tues 25-Thurs 27 April SPRING GREENS SCHOOL DAYS

Very special outdoor learning days will be offered, providing a variety of outdoor learning activities in mixed schools’ workshops. Court of Noke, Pembridge, www.springgreens.org.uk

Wed 26 April SPRING PLANT FAIR

Broxwood Court gardens, advice on trees, wildlife and meadows. Learn about the work of the Cart Shed. Refreshments. Broxwood Court, Pembridge, 10.30am-4pm, £6, 01544 318231, www.thecartshed.co.uk

Sun 30 April SPRING GREENS ENVIRONMENTAL FAIR

Exhibitions, stalls, displays, local food, shelter, arts and music, demonstrations, guided walks, presentations and activities. Local campaign groups and sustaintable businesses. Dog and child-friendly atmosphere. Court of Noke, Pembridge, by kind invitation of Edward & Emma Bulmer. www.springgreens.org.uk

Sat 13 May PUTLEY VILLAGE OPEN GARDENS

Five or six gardens open, maps of the route provided. Gardens and Parish Hall open from 10am-4pm, £6, under 15s free. Plant stalls and refreshments, www.putleygardens.co.uk

Sat 13 May PLANT AND SEEDLING SWAP

Teme Valley Environment Group. Knighton Community Market, 9.30am-12.30pm.

April KNIGHTON COMMUNITY WOODLANDS GROUP

Volunteer with us on our weekly task days to learn new skills. http://tveg.org.uk/wordpress/woodland-project Email woodland@tveg.org.uk 01547 520374.

Every Third Saturday in the Month PRESTEIGNE REPAIR

Presteigne Youth Centre, Hereford Street. 10am-12pm. Household items repaired for free. Info: 01544 267997.

Mondays & Wednesdays KNIGHTON MENS SHED

Sharpening service available. Teme Mill, Station Yard, Knighton, 10am-2pm. John on 01544232750 or email jtknightonmensshed@gmail.com.

Every Tuesday, monthly until end March (except 27 Dec)

ENERGY ADVICE SURGERY

Providing energy advice to local residents, especially those struggling with their energy bills. Knighton Community Centre, 10am-2.30pm, free, drop-in or book via 01547 520374 or email garydcowell@yahoo.co.uk

2nd Wednesday of the month

KINGTON LOCAL ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY NETWORK (KLEEN)

Oxford Arms, Kington, from 7pm, www.kingtonkleen.org.uk

A Quiet Place DISCOVERY CENTRE, CRAVEN ARMS

LESS mammoth, more great white elephant, the Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre started life as a tourist attraction. Many grants later it has become something of a hub for the local community, featuring meeting rooms for hire, art exhibitions, a gift shop, cafe and a Shropshire through Time themed exhibition (admission fee payable). In the latter, you can see a life size replica of the skeleton of the woolly mammoth which was discovered in a quarry at Condover near Shrewsbury. In its heyday, the Centre’s grass roof was a real talking point and cutting edge ecotech, but now, like its contents and Tusker the little furry meet and greet mammoth, is in dire need of a haircut and spruce up.

The A49 traffic snakes its way uphill, powering south towards Ludlow, or northbound plunging into Craven Arms where it effectively splits the town in half. Together with the trains, it’s a tricky task finding a Quiet Place here, However, the Discovery Centre has one big ace up its sleeve - 30 acres of water meadow, managed wild grass and woodland, intersected by various easy walking pathways. It’s a recognised dragonfly hotspot. And it’s free!! The further away you get from civilisation and traffic, the better, so tread lightly and breathe in nature. Keep left and follow the path down to the river Onny.

The whole meadow broods under the shadow of neighbouring Iron Age hillfort, Norton Camp but Kingfisher Corner is our delightfully named destination. Here the Onny snakes around a bend, backed by some undercut cliffs, while handy wooden steps lead down literally to the water’s edge. Be very still and await that flash of blue as the kingfisher darts across the river surface. The steady drone of traffic here is minimal and the river flows silently by. A beautiful Quiet Place worthy of a visit or two.

Where are your Quiet Places? Drop us a line.

Dave Fletcher

complementary therapies

Disclaimer: We would like to emphasise that these listings relate to COMPLEMENTARY medicine practiitioners. Broad Sheep does not endorse any of the practitioners or healing methods listed. We provide no recommendation and take no responsibility for their content.

A is for ACUPUNCTURE with Joanna Bruce RGN, MBAcC at The Body Clinic, Leominster & Richard’s Castle. Treating pain (NICE recommended) and long-term health conditions since 1985. Food intolerance testing. Phone 01584 831 840 or text 07984 460969. E-booking: www.thebodyclinicleominster.co.uk

ACCREDITED, EXPERIENCED PSYCHOTHERAPIST & COUNSELLOR: One-to-one sessions for adults age 18 upwards, in Hay-on-Wye (HR3) and by online video. Find relief from anxiety and depression; overcome trauma; transform anger and low self-worth; navigate divorce, bereavement, and other difficult life experiences. Contact Sarah Hamilton at HAY COUNSELLING, 07580 482751, www.haycounselling.co.uk.

ACUPUNCTURE. Sandy Sandaver Lic Ac MBAcC. I practice an integrated style of acupuncture using 5 element and TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and am a member of the British Acupuncture Council. I also carry out home visits. Hay Acupuncture Clinic, Rose Cottage, Cusop Dingle, Hay-On-Wye 01497 821625/07980 596218 sandysandaver@onetel.com or www.hayacupunctureclinic.co.uk

ANIMAL COMMUNICATION Helping to understand your animal’s behaviour, needs and nature, to resolve emotional and behavioural problems and to deepen your relationship. Contact Kohra on 01544 262 110 or kohra@gmx.co.uk

ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, TRAUMA, LOW SELF WORTH and emotional difficulties - our innovative approach is being used with private and NHS clients with great success. Clients attend an average of 4 sessions to achieve a substantial, some say transformative, effect on their well being. You can check out the testimonials and book a one to one session on our website www.peaceofmindnow.co.uk or get in touch for more information Mike Buckley 07931 986168 mcmbuckley@gmail.com

ARE YOU LOOKING TO GAIN DEEP SELFAWARENESS AND TO LEARN TO ACCEPT YOURSELF COMPLETELY? Find freedom and power within to change with Rebecca Perkins FdSc MBACP, experienced Counsellor available for F2F sessions at The Body Clinic, Leominster (HR6). Search www.thebodyclinicleominster. co.uk , or www.counselling-directory.org.uk for further information, or call 07789 473241.

ASTROLOGY Have you ever wondered if your life is on the right path, or what the year might hold in these uncertain times? Astrological interpretations including natal and year ahead from Pagan Art. www.paganart.co.uk/astrology 10% off first chart with code BS22CA.

BREASTS_BIRTH_BABIES with Rachel Giaccone experienced midwife and craniosacral therapist. I offer a wrap around education and support for your pregnancy including hypnobirth, breastfeeding, Rebozo, Closing the bones. Feel free to contact me on 07484295235 or breastsbirthbabies.uk

THE BRIGHT N BUTE COMPANY - Medical/Sports & Veterinary - K-laser (low level laser therapy) endorsed by vets (VBS Direct) & NHS (NICE guidance) for GP practices & medical profession. Contact: Louisa Clarke BSc(hons) RVN BHSPT Cert Ed. Email: thebrightnbutecompany@ gmail.com Website: https://the-bright-n-bute-company. business.site

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY Therapeutic Massage and Yoga Classes with Clare Johnson, to help you feel more at ease and aligned physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. I work in Ludlow and Elton, near Wigmore. Please phone 07980 070675 or email clareswork@gmail. com

COMPLETE BALANCE I am fully trained in the therapies of The Bowen Technique, Health Kinesiology and Reiki and Seichem. These therapies re-balance the individual on physical, emotional, and mental levels helping you to resolve issues and live your best life. I offer face to face sessions from my clinic near Hereford and online consultations via Zoom, Skype, or Telephone. Treatment can resolve a multitude of problems often incredibly quickly, some of these include; back problems, emotional problems, fears, anxiety, sciatica, arthritic pain, sports injuries, hip/ ankle/knee and foot problems digestive disturbances, hormonal imbalance, asthma, hay fever, migraines & headaches and more. Contact: Helen Mawson. Mobile: 07904 457 075 Email: helen@complete-balance.co.uk, www.complete-balance.co.uk

CULTIVATING SPACE I offer Wild therapy, Coaching and Decluttering. Let go of the physical and emotional obstacles in your way. Reconnect with yourself, others and nature, and start living the life you wish for. Based near Ludlow. Contact Tracey Baylis on 01584 823519 or 07905 967263. Walk/talk, face to face and online consultations available. Cultivatingspace.co.uk

DEEPLY RELAXING Craniosacral Therapy can increase your well-being by releasing emotional and physical tensions. Given a safe space and correct focus, your body knows the way. I am an accredited practitioner, qualified since 2004, based in Shrewsbury, Crickhowell and Mid Wales. Email: cheryljonestherapy@gmail.com Mobile: 07476 012299.

EMOTIONAL WELLBEING: Anne Cummings FETC (Adv Dip), BAoG (Dip), MBIG (Dip) offers a safe, effective therapy to help adults and children heal their emotional and spiritual wounds and fulfil their personal potential. If you have difficulty relating to others, or have troublesome emotions call Anne on 01547 530977. Specialist knowledge and experience of working with panic attacks, anger, stress, bullying, low self-esteem, bereavement/loss and anxiety. For more information see www.thewritetofeel.com.

EQUINE FACILITATED LEARNING. Personal growth for individuals and groups through powerful yet gentle interactions with horses, with seasoned Eponaquest facilitator Angela Dunning. EFL sessions involve spending time outdoors with these beautiful sentient beings, where you will be guided to deepen your connection to yourself and your body; build true confidence; reconnect to your Soul’s purpose and bring greater authenticity to your life. No horse experienced required. Author of “The Horse Leads the Way”. Shropshire/Herefordshire/Borders. Contact me on: 01588 630061/07583 726207; angela@equinereflections. co.uk; or visit www.thehorsestruth.co.uk

GONG BATH SOUND MEDITATION SESSIONS Group sessions twice a month. 1:1 sessions. Private groups. www.lizzieyogaherford.com lizegg@live.co.uk 07870 345216.

HAPPINESS COACHING & PERSON CENTRED

COUNSELLING I’ve been practicing for 27 years and offer a safe confidential space to off load your stresses and problems bringing relief and skills for life enabling you to be your true, authentic, fulfilled, relaxed and happier self. I’m compassionate, empathic, focused and work with integrity. Check my profile online at The Body Clinic Leominster and for booking an appointment or call me on 07903 415359.

HEREFORD HOMEOPATH Juliet Ablett RHom, MARH, MNCHM. Holistic health care with experienced practitioner using homeopathy, essences and homeobotanicals; safe and effective for all ages. I work with you as an individual, listening without judgement, working with whatever issues or problems you may have. Regular clinics in Monmouth, Hereford and Abergavenny, incl. Saturday morning children’s clinic in Hereford. See website: www.julietablett. co.uk or contact Juliet at juliet@julietablett.co.uk or 01981 241456

HYPNOTHERAPY Vicky Nicolson-James DipHP HWHP

Herefordshire based empathetic hypnotherapist offering online or 1-1 therapy to help you live the life you want and deserve. Professional Hypnotherapy Practitioner Association and National Society of Hypnotherapy.

T:01568 760 306 E: vickynicolsonjames@gmail.com

WhatsApp: 07790 162067.

JING - LUCIA LLOYD-CLOKIE ACMT Looking to reduce your pain? Increase range of movement? You’ve found Unwind-clinic to help you! Advanced Clinical Massage Therapy; a unique outcome based system for addressing musculoskeletal pain through a fusion of advanced soft tissue techniques, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and hot stones. Don’t delay, book in today and discover how amazing the body really is. Lucia looks forward to facilitating your healing journey, mobile: 07506 906614; email: hello@unwind-clinic.co.uk; website: www.unwind-clinic.co.uk; on IG and FB. Monday: Hereford Yoga Centre; Tuesday & Wednesday: Peretun, Ashperton; Thursday: Hop Pocket Village, Bishops Frome; Friday: Lotions and Potions, Church St, Hfd. Positive changes, one session at a time.

LEOMINSTER NATURAL HEALTH CENTRE Chiropractic, Herbal Medicine, Kinesiology, Cranial Sacral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Reiki, Reflexology, Emmet technique. Remedial and Holistic Massage. Counselling inc: Couples and Family, Cognitive Behaviour and NLP Stress Management, Child Birth Issues, Psychotherapy. Telephone 01568 616411 email infoleominstercommunitycentre@ gmail.com Or visit Leominster Community Centre, School Road HR6 8NJ (behind Bridge Street car park).

LISA ADSHEAD I.I.H.H.T. ‘HEALING HEART SPACE’. Relaxing, flowing Massage and Reiki Healing. A time and space for you to feel more ease in your body, let go of tension and allow feelings to be. Over 20 years experience. Concessions available. Working at The Body Clinic, Leominster. 07512 773146.

LOU WESTON THERAPIES - The Body Clinic Leominster, offering Remedial, Deep Tissue and Pregnancy Massage. Using a range of effective techniques, treatments are relaxing yet dynamic. Connect physically and emotionally to your well-being. Book online at www. thebodyclinicleominster.co.uk or contact Lou directly loulouweston@gmail.com / 07980 650957.

MASSAGE THERAPY WITH MARIAN HARDIMAN (MTI, CNHC, MLDUK). Remedial, Sports, Holistic, Indian Head Massage. Organic Facial and Manual Lymph Drainage. Clinic in Presteigne (The Retreat), Presteigne, LD8 2UF. Contact: marian@silvanmassage.com, www.silvanmassage.com, 07816 981454.

ONE-TO-ONE SHADOW WORK SESSIONSEXPERIENTIAL, RELATIONAL & EMBODIED THERAPEUTIC PROCESS Shadow work is a great way of approaching your inner experience and those things you want to change. It is a deep, sensitive and safe way of working with all manner of issues even when you have no idea how or where to begin. As we unburden ourselves from the limiting beliefs, behaviours and associated stuck emotions what emerges is an integrity and an authentic expression of our true self; a wholeness from which flows a greater engagement and enjoyment of life. I offer experiential psychotherapeutic process for personal development and for the exploration and transformation of inner conflict and difficulty. Find out more and schedule a free 30-minute consultation at: www.inner-truth.co.ukAlasdair Kirk - 07878 964792.

OSTEOPATH. Mr R A Hughes D.O. Registered Osteopath and Sports Therapist. Fully qualified and registered since 1995. Established in Presteigne for over 20 years. Sciatica, Arthritis, Trapped Nerves, Back, Neck and Shoulder Pain. Headaches, Sports Injuries. 07961 352056, rahughesosteo@gmail.com The Retreat, Presteigne – free car parking.

PARKINSON’S LIFE PROGRAMME: 1 to 1 Neuro

Physio-Led Coaching, Education and Exercise for People with Parkinson’s and their Families. A Flexible and Positive Approach from Diagnosis onwards. Sarah Edwards Parkinson’s Specialist Physiotherapist, MCSP HCPCRegistered. Clinic Based in Castle Street, Hereford. Home or Gym visits available. Contact us on 01432 628123 or www.edwardsphysio.co.uk

PHYSIOTHERAPY, CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY, REFLEXOLOGY & YOGA with Hermione Evans, Chartered Physiotherapist at Radnor Physiotherapy. For all back and neck pain, headaches, sports injuries, RSI, stress related illness and more. To discuss your needs or to make an appointment, please phone 01544 350691 or email contact@radnorphysiotherapy.co.uk or view www.radnorphysiotherapy.co.uk

REFLEXOLOGY WITH ALICE Offering holistic and tailored treatments at The Body Clinic, Leominster. Reflexology can be used as a safe and effective way to support any number of physical and emotional health needs. Book online at www.thebodyclinicleominster.co.uk or contact Alice directly on reflexologywithalice@gmail.com / 07464948568. SPIRITUAL HEALER. 30 years plus experience. One-on-one healing and ‘introduction to healing’ workshops. “If you truly know yourself you will truly know freedom”. Please contact Gilly Williamson, MNFSH, Field House, Kinnerton. 01547 560874.

SOULFUL AND SHAMANIC HEALING AND GUIDANCE WITH SUE ROSE GOULD. Facilitating wellbeing to realise fullest potential through Soul Plan coaching and Shamanic Practice. All consultations can be virtual and online. Contact Sue through website: suepg.co.uk or message 07591 130762.

YOGA IN PRESTEIGNE

Groups and one-to-one tuition in Stapleton

Move more freely • Breathe better

Think more clearly • Experience joy

New: Vedic chant classes

Marie Hudson 01544 260352

www.theyogapractice.org.uk

SOUND THERAPY, with Gongs, Singing Bowls and other therapeutic instruments to relieve stress and anxiety, restoring mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. Monthly group ‘sound bath’ sessions in Herefordshire, 1-2-1 treatments, retreats, private groups, celebrations. Cecilia 07857 128 082, csoundspace@gmail.com, www.csoundspace.com

SOUND THERAPY BY EDAN SOUND. Soesen Edan is a certified Sound Therapist with nearly 20 years of experience running 1-2-1 and group sessions. Using sound and vibration to heal all manner of ailments and disease; physical, mental, emotional, spiritual. Monthly group sessions held in Herefordshire & Birmingham. 1-2-1 sessions run from Holme Lacy. Specialising in work with people with complex disabilities & autism; prison therapeutic education, corporate work & away days; workshops; talks; bespoke sound consultancy. www.edansound.co.uk

THE BODY CLINIC LEOMINSTER Health Support with rehabilitation, pain, mobility, long term health conditions, mental health, wellbeing, women’s and men’s health, fertility and pregnancy and much more. Struggling to figure out how best to approach your health issue? Feeling lost or overwhelmed? Book a Holistic Health Assessment. This will give you the opportunity to talk through your symptoms with an experienced health practitioner who will listen and understand your problem from all angles and advise you on your best course of action. 17 West St, HR6 8EP. www.thebodyclinicleominster.co.uk 01568 368 907, 07493 078 566, thebodyclinicleominster@gmail.com

THE WELLNESS ROOM - Hypnotherapist and Coach. Specialising in combatting anxiety and stress, weight loss and chronic pain. Based in Hereford and online. £10 off with code: NEW10. www.thewellnessroom.org.uk. Email: info@thewellnessroom.org.uk. Call: 07570 200133.

Workshops

WORKSHOP LISTINGS - Single (dated) listings are free. Year round, ongoing workshops will cost £40 per year.

Sat 29 April

SPRING INTO WELLBEING FESTIVAL

Herefordshire Energy Healing presents healers, practitioners, health professionals, authors and vendors, stalls, talks, demonstrations, cakes and hot food. The Leintwardine Centre, 10am-4pm, £3 entrance fee.

PILATES GROUP CLASSES in Presteigne Memorial Hall, Titley Village Hall & Lyonshall Memorial Hall. Private lessons in my garden studio. All abilities and ages welcome. Pilates reduces back pain, increases strength and flexibility, tones your body from top to toe. Move tor lose it! Helen Boley info@helenbpilates.com https://helenbpilates.com 01544 231512, 07968 970093.

HEDGEROW MEDICINE, KITCHEN PHARMACY

Herbal Medicine Making Courses with Rowan McOnegal, Medical Herbalist. Practical weekend courses which explore identifying, growing, harvesting, drying, storing and using herbs. Covers the basic principles of herbal medicine, and making and using teas, tinctures, infused oils, ointments, creams, syrups, inhalations and baths. www.hedgerowmedicine.org 01531 670075.

Every Tuesday

MEDITATION EVENINGS IN NEWTOWN

Healthy Mind Happy Life. We are a small group who meditate together in the evening at Plas Dolerw,Milford Road, SY16 2EH. Usually 2-5 week courses, £6 per session, no need to book. To find out dates please check our website meditationinwales.org. The class consists of simple guided meditations with practical advice from Buddha’s teachings on how to keep a peaceful and happy mind. Suitable for everyone.

Spring/Summer (potentially ongoing)

NEI GONG WEEKEND WORKSHOP

Led by Sophie Johnson, senior teacher of Lotus Nei Gong (https://www.sophieneigong.com/). For interest and inquiries, contact Kohra on 01544 262 110 or kohra@gmx.co.uk

Herefordshire Energy Healing presents

SPRING INTO WELLBEING FESTIVAL

Human medical / Sport pain relief & accelerated healing Clinic: St Donat’s Motte, Kington, HR5 3BE www.klaserthebrightnbutecompany.co.uk

Veterinary Low Level Laser Therapy I will travel to your horses and pets.

Mrs Louisa Cookson BSc (hons) Cert Ed. ECC RVN, BHSPT

Email: thebrightnbutecompany@gmail.com

Mobile: 07972 220082

Healers, Practitioners, Health Professionals, Authors & Vendors

Stalls, Talks, Demonstrations, Cakes and Hot Foods £3 entrance fee

The Leintwardine Centre

Saturday 29th April, 10am-4pm

Hedgerow Medicine

The Bright n Bute Company Limited