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N the latter half of the Seventies I was still spending a fair few weekends racing up to London from the Borders to hang out with my old mates, so was aware of the gathering punk storm. Although not a prog-rock fan, I was hooked on bands that displayed class and musicianship. Ry Cooder, Little Feat, Al Green, Sly and the Family Stone. My preferred London haunts were on the pub rock scene like the Hope and Anchor, Islington. However I did venture off piste to see the 101ers and even stuck my nose into ‘Mohican central’ The Roxy in Covent Garden but as far as I could see most of the ‘new’ punk bands were just playing rubbish versions of tired RnB riffs and spitting a lot. While in Amsterdam I stayed in a flat on Lijnbaangracht and downstairs was a club that hosted the fledgling Stranglers and I spent a lot of time banging on the floor and shouting “Shut the fuck up I can’t hear my Anne Peebles album!” And then there was the gobbing. There is nothing quite as unpleasant as performing on the bar stage at Paradiso and being spat at by a load of Dutch punks who think that because you are British you will take it as a compliment.
However despite this negative outlook I was intrigued to spot a copy of Viv Albertine’s, highly rated, book “Clothes, Clothes, Clothes, Music, Music, Music, Boys, Boys, Boys”, in the Library. I took it home and read it in one sitting (with a short sleep period in the middle) and thought it was brilliant. It charges through Viv’s life up to 2013 and she uses the present continuous throughout which places you squarely in each moment. She has an extraordinary memory for the events she has been part of and pulls no punches on what she thinks of the people she encounters.
As one of the first Kings Road punks who hung out with the Sex Pistols and Malcolm and Vivienne’s shop SEX at the Worlds End and then as guitarist with the legendary Slits all female punk band, there is not much punk history that she cannot spill the beans on. However the book is not just about the punk scene Viv details her early years in Muswell Hill and her post punk forays into filmmaking, pottery, housework, parenthood living in Hastings, and then back to music with similar,
tell all, gusto.
In her introduction to the book, she tells us “The title comes from something my mother used to say, ‘Clothes, Music, Boys,’ that’s all you ever think about! I came home from school with no clue about the lessons but precise detail about what the teacher was wearing, which boys I fancied and which new records were going to be hits.” Some of most surprising things I found in the book, apart from The Slits preoccupation with left field jazzers like Sun Ra and Don Cherry, were her high opinion of various, unlikely, punk lads.
I crossed paths a few times with The Clash whose unpleasant, junkie, roadie lived downstairs from a friend’s squat in Hampstead, and I had a pretty low opinion of the whole band. But according to Viv, Mick Jones the guitarist was a gentle, kind, thoughtful, loyal friend. Even more surprising Sid Vicious from the Sex Pistols, before he met Nancy and heroin, was shy, soft and affectionate as shown by a letter he writes from prison that is articulate and features pretty, girly, handwriting with little fancy circles over all the i’s! Who knew?
I’m finished with the book now and will take it back to Presteigne Library on Tuesday. If I were you, I’d get down there and be first in the mosh pit or if not buy a copy for £4 on eBay.
P.S. If you want to see The Slits at their weirdest try ‘The Slits - Earthbeat’ on Youtube.
The Clash (Mick, 2nd from left)
Sid
The Slits
Viv
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HAYSTACKS MUSIC, Backfold, Hay-on-Wye, HR3 5EQ.
PIANO LESSONS IN LEOMINSTER Classical and jazz, ABRSM grades or just for fun. Mature adult pupils welcome. Also mentoring help with composition and songwriting. ANDREW MORRIS 07779 380483 andrewjmorris@mac.com
PRESTEIGNE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Has licenced rooms available for events/parties/meetings from £25.00 per hour. Ample parking in car park next door. Contact secretary Kay Yendole @ kayyendole@rocketmail.com or phone 07724379335 and leave a message.
VIOLIN, VIOLA TUITION. All ages/stages. 07870 320022. Church Stretton.
GARDENER WANTED FOR LARGE GARDEN
Lawn mowing, strimming, hedge trimming and yearly cut of small wildflower area.Tools provided if necessary. One day a fortnight (negotiable) continuing through winter. Felindre, 11 miles West of Knighton. Tel 07376 181377 or 01547 510096.
FANCY PLAYING SOME CHAMBER MUSIC? Amateur cellist seeks violin/viola players or pianists in Herefordshire who share a love of chamber music. Interested? Call or text Nick on 07970 671247 (if you answered my last advert, please try again, as there was a problem with my e-mail address).
SAX PLAYER SEEKS BAND Alto and tenor saxophonist plays jazz (standards, latin), blues and funk. Looking for jazz guitarist/pianist or to join existing band. Call Ru. Tel. 01544 388 709 (evenings). Please leave a message if I don’t pick up.
APPLE MAC COMPUTER REPAIRS UPGRADES AND TUITION All Apple computers. On site service only. Any distance. Call or Email Lee on 07875 267790 mail@applemacmechanic.co.uk
WEDDING VENUE Ludlow Mascall Centre has three rooms licensed for wedding and civil partnership ceremonies, starting at £90. Ideal for intimate ceremonies and celebrations for up to 70 people. Rooms can be decorated to your style. Ample parking on site. Contact director@ludlowmascallcentre.co.uk or 01584 873882 for details.
LIVING IN CHAOTIC TIMES? – Join us in simple guided meditations to help you take control of anxiety, fear, anger, grief and bereavement. 10am – 10.30am first Saturday, each month, online, free – supporting Presteigne Food Bank. For further details email docsingh.ting@gmail.com
PERSONAL ASSISTANT AVAILABLE Versatile, friendly, well presented male assistant to help you to the utmost. Excellent cook, holiday cottage cleaner, IT expert, basic gardener, confident driver with own car, secretarial skills, minor handyman, experience of personal care, fit and full of energy. £17/hr. Hours by agreement. Call 01588 444502.
PROFESSIONAL GENT seeks female fun bunny. Respond to Tingtawng@gmail.com
LOST FOR WORDS? Experienced magazine, newspaper and book editor, advertising copywriter, journalist, author and longstanding Broad Sheep contributor can edit, re-write, proof read, research or write from scratch, whatever you need word-wise. Modest fees, quick turnaround. Email: williams.mark1@gmail.com
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.
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
RETIRED PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE for local work. References available. £85.00 per day. Try me. Roy 01547 520164.
GUITAR SETUPS AND REPAIRS. Electric and Acoustic guitars. Based in Ludlow. Neck relief, action height, saddle radius, bridge adjustment, intonation, fretboard treatment, fret polish, pickup height, electrics service, electrical screening, cleaning etc. Friendly professional service, fast turnaround. Can collect. Call 07770 321 904.
CO-WORKING SPACE IN LUDLOW Desks available for a few hours, a day, or longer at WorkPlace at the Ludlow Mascall Centre. Includes Wi-Fi, parking, and tea and coffee. Designated desks also available on a monthly basis. Contact director@ludlowmascallcentre.co.uk or 01584 873882 for details.
BEEKEEPING FOR BEGINNERS Interested in keeping bees yourself? We run practical, hands-on courses, give talks and provide one-to-one tuition. For further information phone 07813 276308 or email woodruffbank@btinternet. com
MUSIC SERVICES offered by experienced professional oboist. Small chamber groups for events, oboe lessons, beginner piano lessons. Contact Ruth Watson 07870 752325 or 01544 350559.
PIANO LESSONS IN PRESTEIGNE. All ABRSM grades or simply for fun. Contact Mzia 07981 752405, mziag@hotmail.co.uk
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.
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Icebergs and Ice Creams
IN a London flat, 2 storeys up. Soft leather moccasins on a white wool carpet, muted abstracts on a pastel wall, sparsely furnished, roller blinds, air-conditioning and the faint hum of a fridge; the only hints of the natural worldthe world that used to be everything - are a spider-plant and some pebbles from a far-off beach, posed zen-like on the mantlepiece of a blocked-off fireplace. Through the windows there are vistas of other elegant flats in similar 3 and 4 storey terraced houses, and there’s a glimpse of cloud and sky, white and blue, caught just between the slate roofs and the window frame. I’m on the sofa, painting my nails and reading about Icebergs. “....[they] pass slowly and very close. I smell nothing but colossal, witless indifference.” Kathleen Jamie: from Sightlines.
In my mind’s eye I’m decades back on Newfoundland’s chaotic northern shores. There’s a moraine of lichen-covered boulders behind, and in front there are ice floes dotted across the aquamarine sea to the horizon, white and blue, processing down the Belle Isle Strait to the Gulf of St.Lawrence; I’m freezing; there’s three inches of sodden peat between the soles of my shoes and the bed-rock; the forest of dwarf spruce stretching away on either side hums with black fly and mosquitoes. This is almost a primaeval wilderness, yet the wind is rattling a plastic bottle against the silvered driftwood along the tide-line, and some of the rainbow colours in the sunset are tinted with sulphur.
Inside the London flat the muted relationships between objects and spaces and the tight spectrum of cultural references are all human-to-human reflections, it’s a hall of mirrors, but in the wilderness there’s a vast expanse of alien detail where words and theories can’t get a foothold. My few senses are inadequate; the encounter is with a vast “witless indifference.” - on the furthest edge of understanding.
At one extreme there is a warm North London flat and at the other an Arctic wilderness, one of the most inhospitable places on earth. You are the only natural thing in the flat and the only tiny unnatural pixel on the freezing shore. The complexity, the immediate reality of the implacable tundra engages the whole of you, sharpening the edges of your awareness. The tundra fills your mind to the brim til there is nothing else in your head. The flat is far bleaker. In it there is only you.
By losing touch with the natural world, we are losing our edge.
Ice creams
“Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, … all is vanity.” Ecclesiastes 1: 2
A glorious summer’s day at Poppit Sands, West Wales, half way between land and sea, half way between the flat and the Arctic. I was on my way to get some ice creams when I passed a teenager fiddling with his mobile. He
stepped backwards to frame his selfie but tripped on the scenery and his phone fell into a rock pool. I really couldn’t help laughing.
I joined the queue at the Mr.Poopy van and made my order, and then the child behind me said, “Mummy can I have the Brain-on-a-stick?” Wha.. !? “Mu-um! Can I have the … ” the child kept on … “brai-ain onna … ” Is that all we are? A brain on a stick? Pogoing about the landscape like a scarecrow? And where did that come from!? Tik-tok? Instagram? Netflix junior horror?
Is this the kid I saw with his nose against the toy shop window stabbing at the glass as though it was a touchscreen?
Possibly this is where it comes from …. Or is going? :
Another day, some place else, dear children, you were having a coffee with friends and the conversation died. After 15 seconds you picked up your phone and withdrew into your personal hall of mirrors, reverting to the umbilical. You all did. The shrinking walls of your youthful insecurity closed in and you became that disembodied brain on a stick, drifting into white noise as you peered uncertainly through the tiny window, searching for your elusive identity, for the self-portrait you could own among the thousand disappointments. Like watching your own back disappear in a white-out. If only you knew, your self can only be truly distinguished in the society of other people, not in a wannabe image, a missing personality...
“I don’t know what I see when I look in the mirror. Sometimes it feels like the outside and the inside don’t fit together … “: Juliet Binoche.
I remember you climbed a big important mountain, but instead of shooting a panorama of the view, surely one of the best in the world, you texted me a selfie: mirror glasses, red puffer jacket, black hat and mittens, everybody’s blue sky … You could have been anyone, pretty much, and anywhere but Hey! look at me-ee!
I love your column in Broad Sheep, always laugh and so enjoy the writing. Please forgive the feedback, but when writing would you think about chickens. Currently 2.9 million are killed every day in the UK, most reared in f actory farms are only six weeks old ( see www.gov.uk/ government/statistics/agriculture). The chickens live packed in sheds that are only cleared out when the birds are cleared out. As you know, the waste is a problem and ends up in water courses, which kills the river flora and fauna.
50 years ago we Brits rarely ate chicken, it was a treat, now it is eaten every day and who knows what pesticides and antibiotics get into the food chain from this strange practice of rearing and eating chickens.
Food writers can do a huge amount to influence people, you can’t put off your readership by being prissy, but a good writer like you will find a way. Telling people what they are participating in when they order a chicken dinner.
Yours sincerely
Rebecca
Mr Pernickety’s reply is included in this month’s review. Food Pages - 30.
18 & 19 Oct A spectacular site-specific sound, projection and fire installation, inspired by time and place, to dazzle the eyes and startle our imaginations.
Lead artists MARK ANDERSONvisual sound artist and pyrotechnician, in collaboration with LIAM WALSH & ULF PETERSON, alchemists of sound, light and space to create this unique event. For all ages, a rare chance to walk through the Abbey grounds after dark. Tintern Abbey grounds, 6pm-10.30pm, last entry 9pm, £10.50 adults, NUS and children aged 5-17 £7, family ticket £33, under 5s free. Part of Wye Valley River Festival, www.ticketsource.co.uk/ wye-valley-river-festival
Ardent Gallery, 46 High St, Brecon, LD3 7AP 01874 623333
A wide variety of artwork. Open Tues-Sat 11am-5pm.
The museum houses an art gallery with varied exhibitions and events. Open Wed-Sat 10am-4pm.
Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, Near Newtown 01686 688369 Until 13 Oct ‘Under Milk Wood’.
BONNIE HELEN HAWKINS - pencil illustrations. JO MATTOX & HILARY COWLEY GREER- sculpture. MARY LLOYD-JONES - paintings and prints. JEAN SAMPSON - ceramics. JEB
LOY NICHOLS, ESTELLA SCHOLLES & AMY STERLY - book art. Glassworks inspired by Welsh landscape history.
27 Oct - 22 Dec Winter Open Exhibition. 2 and 3D works in paintings, sculpture, textiles, drawings, mosaics, collage, prints, ceramics, photographs and glass. There will be a ‘People’s Choice’ prize of £500 and special section for ‘Young Artists’ under 18 and under 25. Cafe. Open Thurs-Sun 11am-4pm.
Minerva Arts Centre, High Street, Llanidloes 01686 413467
Until 5 Oct Vintage style fair. 12 & 13 Oct Print Fair.
9 - 24 Nov Christmas Craft Fair. Open daily 10.30am-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 art, paintings and limited edition fine art giclee prints. Open Wed 10am-2pm, Thurs 11am-5pm, Fri & Sat 11am-3pm. Tower House Gallery, 29 High Street, Knighton LD7 1AT 01547 529530
Gallery, shop, cafe. Open Tues-Sat 10am-4.30pm.
Hay Castle, Oxford Road, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5DG 01497 820079 14 - 27 Oct ‘Battles, Borders & Books’. ASSOCIATION OF GUILDS OF SPINNERS, WEAVERS & DYERS.
3 Oct - 5 Jan SHARON CURTISprintmaker. In the Focus Gallery.
3 Oct - 5 Jan JANE KEAY. In the Cafe Gallery. 15 Nov - 2 March QUENTIN BLAKEillustrations. In the Main Gallery. Open 10am-4.30pm.
The Table, 43 Lion Street, Hay-on-Wye 01497 822802 www.thetablehay.com
5 - 26 Oct SOPHIE ROBINSON. 2 - 23 Nov CAROL DOUGLAS. Open Thurs-Sat 10am-3pm.
The Chair, 10 High Town, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5AE 01497 822802 www.thechairhay.com
Until 6 Oct SUE WALES.
7 - 13 Oct ISOBEL CRAGGS ALFEROFF. Thurs-Sat 10am-3pm.
The Hay Makers, St John’s Place, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5BN 01497 820556
Until 10 Nov Autumn exhibition. GWLADYS EVANS - ceramic sculpture, MARK GRIFFITHSceramics, JENNY GRACIE - baskets. Open Mon-Sat 10.30am-5pm, Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells LD1 5EY 01597 258118
5 Oct Artisan market. Local arts, crafts, handmade and homemade items. Free entry. 10am-3pm.
Showcasing some of the very best artists from Wales and the Borders. Open 10.30am-5pm daily except Tues, Sun 11.30am-4pm.
Found Gallery, 1 Bulwark, Brecon LD3 7LB 07736 062849 www.foundgallery.co.uk
Until 19 Oct ‘Friends at Found’. ELIZABETH HAINES, ALEX HIRITZEL, LOUISE DIGGLEpaintings. STEVE COOK - pottery. JONATHAN COX - sculpture. STEVE BROCKETT - photographs. 22 Oct - 16 Nov ‘Penpont: Custodians of the Land’. A collaboration with photographer ANDY PILSBURY and artist ROBERT MacDONALD. Also featuring LUCY BURDEN - paintings. NIGEL LAMBERT - pottery. SOPHIE FERRIER - maker and SZILVIA DOROGI - jewellery. Open Tues-Sat 10am-4.30pm.
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.
Knighton Museum, 1 Broad Street, Knighton
Run by volunteers and reflects 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.
The Art Shop, Cross Street, Abergavenny NP7 5EH 01873 852690
Until 19 Oct ‘Capturing Time, Memory, Place’. CATHERINE BAKER & AINSLEY HILLARD. Tues-Sat 9.30am-5pm.
Museum of Modern Art, Tabernacle, Heol Penrallt, Machynlleth SY20 8AJ 01654 703355
info@moma.machynlleth.org.uk
Until 16 Nov ‘Reflection’. JONATHAN RETALLICK. Until 16 Nov Tabernacle Collection.
Until 16 Nov ‘Woven Memories’. VICKY ELLIS. Wed-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-1pm.
Jane Keay, Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye
Jenny Gracie, The Hay Makers Gallery, Hay-on-Wye
Sharon Curtis, Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye
Philip Huckin, The Courtyard, Hereford
Tracy Thursfield, Glasbury Arts, Glasbury Village Hall
Rhayader Museum & Gallery, CARAD, East Street, Rhayader LD6 5ER 01597 810561 www.carad.org.uk
Oct Rhayader Museum’s new all weather attraction: ‘TimeScape Rhayader’ is open. £6.00 entry adults, children 1p. The Rhayader Dragon Festival returns with free activity days, events and fun over the October half term week. Please see website or FBCarad - TimeScape Rhayader for details. Open Thurs-Sat 10.30am-4pm.
Stiwdio Celf o Gwmpas, The Beaufort, Temple Street, Llandrindod Wells LD1 5HG www.celfogwmpas.org
Oct JANE MASON - sculpture. 14 Nov - 21 Dec Winter Art Sale; Celf Artists Network. Thurs-Sat 10am-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.
ROSIE FAREY & MANDY COATS - baskets. SUSAN GALLAGHERpaintings. Open 11am-4pm.
Celf O Gwmpas, Centre Celf, Tremont Road, Llandrindod Wells LD1 5EB 01597 822777
Until 3 Oct Ysgol Calon Cymru; GCSE and A level student show their work. 10 - 31 Oct BOB FEAR - paintings. 7 Nov - 12 Dec Llandrindod Art Group annual exhibition - drawings and paintings in watercolours, acrylic and oils. Tues-Thurs 9am-4pm, Sat 9am-12pm.
HEREFORDSHIRE
Herefordshire Archive & Records Centre, Fir Tree Lane, Hereford HR2 6LA 01432 260750
Until 31 Dec ‘Walking the Common’. An exhibition of a year-long creative collaborative investigation into Herefordshire’s Commons. Tues-Fri and Sat (second in month) 10am-4pm. Weavers Gallery, Church Lane, Ledbury 07881 926661
Until 6 Oct ‘Take 5’. Exhibition by five local photographers. Open daily 10am-4.30pm.
21 - 27 Oct ‘Art Strands’. Malvern artists. Open daily 10am-4pm.
28 Oct - 2 Nov Hereford Painting Club annual exhibition. Open Mon-Fri 10am-4.30pm, Sat 10am-2pm.
Glasbury Village Hall, Hereford HR3 5LL www.glasburyarts.co.uk
18 - 22 Oct 21st Annual art exhibition. Part of the biennial Celebration of Welsh Contemporary Painting in 16 venues across Wales. Featuring 20 artists working with paint, stone, glass. Artists include CHARLES BURTON, AMANDA TURNER, SUE WILLIAMS, JOANNE SMITH, SALLY MATTHEWS, SUE THORNE, CATRIONA CARTWRIGHT. Plus A-level and GCSE students from Gwernyfed High School. Open 18 Oct 6-7pm, then daily 10am-4pm.
Until 7 Oct ‘Papercut Pigeons and Brass Boots’. A celebratory exhibition to mark Tinsmiths 20th year and Martin Clark’s 60th year at Tilley Printing. This mixed-discipline show will feature original letterpress posters, ceramics and handcrafted items by artists inspired by folk art. MARK HEARLD, JONNY HANNAH, MARION ELLIOT, KATIE B MORGAN, MATT & AMANDA CAINES, CLARE DE LA TORRE, PAUL YOUNG, JEN WHISKERD & CAROL PARTRIDGE. Open Tues-Sat, 9.30am-5pm. Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125 www.themarkettheatre.com 31 Oct ‘Ghost Trees’. Poet Sarah-Jane Arbury, artist Richard Gilbert and photographer Paul Ligas take you on a virtual tour. 7.30pm, £12, students £8.
RidgeBank Contemporary Art Space, 1 High St, Kington HR5 3AX Until 30 Nov ‘Hogback Hills’. Group show with mulitple mixed media artists. Open Wed-Sat 12pm-5pm. Open throughout h.Art.
Croft Castle, Yarpole, near Leominster HR6 9PW www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croftcastle Until 30 Oct ‘Ghost Trees’. Contemporary art walk and exhibition, creating artworks that reflect on the importance of Croft’s ancient dead and veteran trees. RICHARD GILBERT, SARA-JANE ARBURY & PAUL LIGAS. Open daily 10am-5pm. Made in Ross, The Corn Exchange, 7 The High St, Ross on Wye, HR9 5HL www.madeinross.co.uk
A co-operative of local art and craft makers. Open 10am-4pm.
1 Station Approach, Hereford www.meadowarts.org
Until April 2025 ‘Baroque Sprawl’ LAURA WHITE. This bold installation celebrates creativity and connectivity and is inspired by Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne. Commissioned by Meadow Arts and Hereford College of Arts.
The Courtyard Theatre, Hereford 01432 340555
Until 5 Oct PHILIP HUCKIN. Central to his work is the Ceredigion landscape, the mountains, hills and coastline. 11 Oct - 2 Nov ‘Craft Life’. Showcasing some of the best work from the life drawing artists as well as the graduates from the Hereford College of Arts.
4 Nov - 22 Nov ‘Clever Betsy’. An inclusive arts enterprise based in Leominster. Open theatre times.
GEORGINA FRANKLIN - jewellery. Individual contemporary design. Commissions undertaken.
Take 4 Gallery, 30 The Homend, Ledbury HR8 1BT www.take4gallery.com Gallery run by a cooperative of 22 artists and makers. Basket maker HELEN MUNDAY, blacksmiths STEPHEN MCRAE and JENNY PICKFORD, ceramicists CLAIRE BILLINGSLEY, STEVE FREER, RUTH BUSBRIDGE and FIONA O’NEILL, mixed media artists CHERYL HEWITT and HELEN NORMAN, jewellers SAM HEMMING, SUSAN WILKINSON and HAZEL MATHIOT, painters CAROLINE GREEN, IVAN JONES, TRUDI FOGGO, JO DEWAR and JANE ASTON, photographer CRAIG DODDS, sculptor ALAN RICHARDSON, textile artists SARAH FREER and DI WEISSBERG and wood turner KEITH BRITTEN. Open Mon–Sat 10-5pm.
Original and contemporary art. Open by appointment.
Bocam Gallery, Space 10, Bastion Mews, Union St, Hereford HR1 2BT 07929 206707 www.bocamgallery.com
Modern contemporary, pop, street art, prints. Thurs-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10.30am-4.30pm.
Walenty Pytel Gallery & Studio Tour, near Ross-on-Wye, HR9 7SB 01531 634102 walentypytelgallery@ gmail.com www.walentypytel.com
You will receive a printed guide to all of Walenty’s outdoor sculptures in Herefordshire to visit at your leisure. Bronze and original steel sculptures can be purchased in the gallery as well as signed limited edition prints, cards and his book Walenty Pytel Life/ Art/Sculpture. By appointment only. Groups welcome.
Handmade at Wobage workshops. BEN CASSON - furniture and kitchenwood. LYNN HODGSONwood carving and kitchenwood. PATIA DAVIS - slip decorated earthenware and porcelain. JEREMY STEWARDwood-fired salt-glazed stoneware and porcelain. PETRA STEWARD - woodfired salt-glazed stoneware and collagraph prints. CLYDE JEFFERSON - willow basketry. CLAIR HODGSON - gold, silver and semi-precious stone earrings. Thurs-Sat 10am-5pm.
Old Stable Gallery, Leominster Tourist Information Centre, Corn Square, Leominster 01568 616460 Oct JOHN HOPKINS - artwork. Open 9.30am-4pm.
Mappa Mundi & Chained Library, Hereford Cathedral 01432 374200 24 Oct ‘Library Treasures: Unexpected Worlds’. Showcasing a selection of items from the Cathedral’s collections, 4.30pm-6pm, £15, please book.
Until 5 April ‘Seeds of Eternity’. Celebrating 17th century poet Thomas Traherne. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. Admission charges apply.
Old Chapel Gallery, East Street, Pembridge HR6 9HB 01544 388842 www.oldchapelgallery.co.uk
Until 31 Oct h.Art. ‘When Soft was the Sun’. Featuring TAMSIN ABBOTT - stained glass, LYNDA JONES - paintings and drawings, SHELAGH POPHAM - paintings, DAVID ENGLAND - sculpture, SAFFRON GUY and more.
Throughout the year ‘Splendour in the Grass’. An ever-changing collection of unique sculptures for your outdoor space in a variety of media including carved stone, resins, bronze, glass, ironwork, stainless steel and ceramics. Wed-Sat 11am-4.30pm, Sun 12-4pm. Burton Court, near Leominster HR6 9DN 01544 267033 www.antiquesintents.co.uk 18 & 19 Oct Antiquesintents. 50 dealers, country, decorative and traditional. Fri 12-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm. £5 entry.
Oct LUCY BLACKLEY - ceramics. VALERIE McLEAN - paintings. RICHARD HASTINGS - weaving, rugs and shawls. Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-3pm.
Gallery 54, 54 High Street, Ross-on-Wye 01989 567917
Oct Gallery artists featuring STUART ELLIS, JOHN MAXWELL STEELE, LEYLA MURR, STEPHEN RIPPINGTON. Plus LOCO GLASS STUDIO will be exhibiting. Thurs-Sat 10am-4pm.
South Chapel, All Saints Church, Hereford 01432 370414
Until 5 Oct Local craft sale.
7 - 12 Oct GOLDEN VALLEY CRAFT SOCIETY.
16 Oct - 16 Dec Sale of Charity Christmas cards with cards for good causes. Mon-Sat 9.30am-4pm.
Oxenham Gallery, The Coachhouse, 19a Church St, Hereford HR1 2LR 07814 406878
Oct AMANDA HILLIER - paper lanterns. NICOLA HAIGH - hand painted silk scarves. JONATHAN SANT - Hereford paintings. Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-3pm.
Apple Store Gallery, Unit 1, Rockfield Road, Hereford HR1 2UA 01432 263937 www.applestoregallery.com
9 Oct - 16 Nov Studio Art @ ASG. ASG studio artists and guests. Wed-Fri 10am-3pm, Sat 10am-1pm.
SHROPSHIRE
Priory Hall, Much Wenlock TF13 6HS 01746 765078
www.shropshireguild.co.uk
19 & 20 Oct ‘Showing Off’. THE SHROPSHIRE GUILD OF CONTEMPORARY CRAFT. 10am-5pm, free entry.
Until 9 Nov ‘All That Jazz!’ SUSAN BIRTH & CERRIE MANSFIELDjazz inspired paintings.
6 Oct LARFE Vintage Fair, open 11am-4pm, tea, coffee and cakes available, to book a table email shauna@salt-works.co.uk Mon-Sat 10am-7pm.
Studio & Gallery, Quality Square, Ludlow SY8 1AR 01584 751277
www.abigailhumphriesart.com
Oct ABIGAIL HUMPHRIES - mixed media, figurative pieces and some tradtional oil paintings. Open Tues, Thurs-Sun 10am-4pm, Mon & Wed appointment only.
Bishop’s Castle Town Hall 01588 630023
www.bishopscastletownhall.co.uk
Until 8 Oct JENNY JONES & FLO PATERN
5 Oct Antiques & Flea Market, 9am-4pm.
14 Oct - 12 Nov SARAH GILLARD.
2 Nov Antiques & Flea Market, 9am-4pm.
Exhibitions open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm.
St Laurence’s Church Ludlow
Until 5 Oct ‘Maps, Borders and Landmarks’. An exhibition of calligraphy by members of THE MARCHES SCRIBES. 10am-5pm. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630321
6 Oct Car Boot/Brocante with over 30 stalls, live music and hot food. 9am-2pm. Open Tues-Sun and Bank Holiday Mondays 10am-4pm.
The Artists’ Gallery, Upper Floor, Ludlow Farm Shop (formerly Ludlow Food Centre), Bromfield, Ludlow SY8 2JR 07974 652866 www.theartistsgalleryludlow.co.uk Instagram @galleryrunbyartists Facebook The Artists’ Gallery Artists include SHELLY PERKINS - wildlife artist. PRISCILLA HANNbronze sculpture. KIM DAVIS - wood turning. PAUL BURTON - sculpture in steel, glass and stone. PIP JONESwatercolours. SARAH BILLINGHAMpottery. ALICE SAVERY - watercolour and pen botanicals. LAURA-JAYNE - jewellery metalsmith.
Oct Visiting artists are SARAH HILLglass artist. ALI TREGASKES - silver jewellery. Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm.
Art & Craft Workshops
Single, dated listings are free. Ongoing workshops, £45 per year.
TEXTILE WORKSHOPS WITH ANGIE HUGHES Zoom and face to face creative workshops including machine and hand embroidery, print and mixed media techniques. Based in Ledbury. 07533 362900. angie@angiehughes. 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 artist tutor: Audrey Bradley: 01544 350369. ALEX ALLPRESS POTTERY STUDIO - POTTERY EXPERIENCES & LESSONS Church Street, Builth Wells, LD2 3BS. 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 £40pp - tasters - half day or full day. Call for details: 07443 875016. email alexallpressceramics@ gmail.co.uk, www.alexallpress.co.uk
MOOR HALL STUDIO - BOBBY
BRITNELL
Inspirational art and textile related courses delivered throughout the year by highly qualified tutors. Some courses are online 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
JAPANESE FLORAL ART
Workshops in Ikebana, courses, lessons and demonstrations by Teacher and 3rd Master Noella Plasman-Jones.Visit www.discovering-ikebana.com and scroll down on the ‘Booking Form’ for dates. NEW for 2024: Residential Ikebana Introductory Course contact: discovering.ikebana@gmail.com or leave a message on 07379 499984.
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, Upholstery, Felting, Rag Rug Making, Sculpture, Stone Carving, Dichroic Glass, Plant Dyeing, Natural Dyes, Herbal Medicine, Suminagashi, Rush Basketry, Creating a Sketchbook, Jewellery, Glass Fusing, Hand Bloc Printing, Sewing, Stained Glass, Weaving, Linocutting, Painting and Drawing, Japanese Woodblock, Printmaking, Weaving Wire, Woodcarving and Pottery. For full details visit www. creativebreaks.co.uk Make it yourself - take it home - treasure it - or give it with pride!
STONE CARVING WORKSHOPS
Monthly in Llangarron, HR9 6PH. Glenn Morris sculptor leads an informal, friendly group. Suitable for beginners or those with some experience. Tuition, tools, refreshments and safety equipment provided, small piece of stone included in “Beginners Day”. Gift Vouchers available. Contact frances@artsinthemarches.co.uk 07917 522253
Thurs 10 October
RAG RUG MAKING WORKSHOPS
Learn two traditional techniques with Jenni Stuart-Anderson. Rose Tinted Rags, Hereford, £75, 01568 750229 or email jenni.ragrugs@freeuk.com
Sat 19 October & Sat 9 November
CALLIGRAPHY WORKSHOPS
19 Oct - ‘Riotous Rustics’. Roman lettering from 1st century AD with tutor, Peter Lloyd. 9 Nov - ‘Paper Framed Cut Letters’. Clever folding and cutting techniques with tutor Josie Brown. Monkland Village Hall, Leominster, 10am-4pm, £20 members, £25 visitors 01544 327657.
Tues 29 October
PUMPKINS & PETALS WORKSHOP
All materials provided, just bring secateurs. Children welcome. The Hub, St Peter’s Church, Peterchurch, 11am-1pm, £25. To book 07379 499984 email noellaplasman@gmail.com
Sun 3 November
BOTANICAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Still Life botanical photography by Andrew Harrison. Learn some techniques and skills to help lift your photography. For ages 18+.
The Hive, Shrewsbury, 10am-3.30pm, £15, 01743 234970.
October - December
THE ENGLISH COUNTRY HOUSE
Inspiring workshops include needle felting, soap making, photography, paper making, Christmas crafts and mosaic. All workshops are suitable for beginners and light refreshments are provided. Discounts offered when booking for two or more people. The English Country House, near Tenbury Wells. Full details see website: therealenglishcountryhouse.com or email therealenglishcountryhouse@ gmail.com
Until December
IKEBANA
Courses and demonstrations in Ikebana (Ohara School) by teacher and 3rd Master, Noella Plasman-Jones. New for 2024, Residental Ikebana Introductory courses in Herefordshire. 14 & 15 Oct, 4 & 5 Nov, 6 & 7 Dec. 07379 499984, www.discovering-ikebana.com
October & November
APPLE STORE GALLERY
21 Oct - Reduction Linocut with Jess Bugler. 10am-3.30pm. 22 Oct - How to Mix the Colours you really want with Allison Neal, 10am-3.30pm.
18 Nov - Collagraph with Jess Bugler, 10am-3.30pm. 19 Nov - Introduction to Watercolours: Discovering the joy of wet paint with Richard Bavin, 10am-3.30pm. Apple Store Gallery, Unit 1 Rockfield Rd, Hereford, HR1 2UA, www.applestoregallery.com 01432 263937.
GLASBURY ARTS
21st Annual Art Exhibition
Friday 18 - Tuesday 22 October
Glasbury Village Hall – Free Entry
This years Exhibition will form part of the fourth biennial Celebration of Welsh Contemporary Painting in sixteen venues across Wales.
The exhibition will feature twenty artists working with paint, stone, glass and more besides including Charles Burton, Amanda Turner, Sue Williams, Joanne Smith, Sally Matthews, Sue Thorne and Caitriona Cartwright plus A-Level and GCSE students from Gwernyfed High School.
Opening Times: Friday 18 October 6pm to 7.30pm
Saturday19-Tuesday 22 October 10am to 4pm
www.glasburyarts.co.uk
Tracy Thursfield
October
MID WALES ARTS CENTRE
26 Oct - Mosaic workshop with Delia Taylor Brook. Working on a Curved Surface. There will be small terracotta flowerpots available for you to create an image in a day. 16 Nov and 7 Dec - Mosaic workshop with Delia Taylor Brook. Christmas Theme, Working on a flat surface to create a 4 x 4 coaster wall decoration or mosaicing Christmas decorations onto hanging slate hearts and stars. All workshops 10am-4pm, £65 or £120 for two workshops. Weekly Pottery Club, Thurs 2-4pm & 7pm-9pm, Fri 11am-1pm & 2-4pm. Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, Newtown, 01686 688369.
October
WESTHOPE COLLEGE
3 Oct, 10am-4pm, Dynamic Drawing in the Landscape, £90 including lunch, cake, drinks and all materials. 9 Oct, 10am-4pm Enamelling - An Introduction to Cloisonné, £85 including lunch, cake, drinks and all materials. 12 Oct, 10am-4pm Screen Printing on Textiles, £95 including lunch, cake, drinks and all materials. 15 Oct, 10am-4pm Weaving with English Rush, £85 including lunch, cake,drinks and all materials. 22 Oct, 10am-3pm Watercolour Christmas Cards, £80 including lunch, cake, drink and all materials. 26 Oct, 10am-4pm Silver Clay Flowers, £85 including lunch, cake, drink and all materials. Westhope College, Craven Arms, SY7 9JL. www.westhope.org.uk. Please book 01584 861293.
October OXFORD ARMS KINGTON
5 Oct - Antiques Valuation, 10am-2pm, £2 per item. 13 Oct - Creative Cafe Autumn Special, 2-4pm, free/ donation. 26 Oct - The Big Draw (time tbc). The Oxford Arms, Kington, 07301 081444.
October
HAY CASTLE
5 Oct - Basket Weaving Workshop with Helen Munday, 10am-5pm, £85, all materials provided. 6 Oct - Book Art Workshop ‘Mushrooms’ with Kate Kato, 10am-4pm, £85, all materials provided. 7 Oct - Monday Life Drawing Session, 11am-4pm, £18 full day, £12 half day, bring your own materials. 12 Oct - Hay Youth Art Group: Session 1 - Human Form/Chalk Pastels. For ages 11-16 years, 10.30am-1pm, £12.50, all materials provided.
19 Oct - Hay Youth Art Group: Session 2 - Wirework Models. For ages 11-16 years, 10.30am-1pm, £12.50, all materials provided. 21 Oct - Monday Life Drawing Session (fortnightly), 11am-4pm, £18 full day, £12 half day, please bring your own materials. 26 Oct - Hay Youth Art Group: Session 3 - Wirework Models, for ages 11-16 years, 10.30am-1pm, £12.50, all materials provided.
29 Oct - Book Making Workshop with Francesca Kay, make a tiny book, 11am-4pm, all materials provided.
31 Oct - Halloween Crafty Session, 10.30am & 1pm, £5, children must be accompanied at all times.
Hay Castle, Oxford Rd, Hay-on-Wye, 01497 820079, www.haycastletrust.org
October
LUDLOW ASSEMBLY ROOMS
15 Oct - The Art of Observation II. Develop the essential skills and understanding for being able to draw. The drawing course will take place over 6 weeks under the tuition of Anita Bigsby, suitable for beginners, improvers and practicing artists. Bring A3 or A2 sketchbook and drawing board. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 1.30pm-3.30pm, £120 for 6 x 2 hour sessions, 01584 878141.
2pm Talk: ‘Leominster Priory’s Norman Nave Through Time’ The Ducking Stool in context Evolution of the Norman Nave Edfrith and the Lion
FREE ENTRY, ALL WELCOME!
October & November Courses
LIFELONG LEARNING - ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY
1 Oct - Hooked on Wool, £130.
2 Oct - Natural History Illustration Fungi, £70.
7 Oct - Fibre to Form: Basketry Coiling, £80.
8 Oct - Extending the Line: Charcoal, £130.
9 Oct - Making Pictures: The Tricks of the Trade, £130.
23 Oct - Ceramic Artefact, £270.
10 Oct - Upcycled Clothing, £130.
16 Oct - Museum, Gallery, Education and Interpretation, £250. 9 Oct - Natural History Illustration: Shells, £70.
11 Nov - Drawing with Scissors Collage, £130.
13 Nov - Fur, Feather and Scale, £70. Lifelong Learning, Cledwyn Building Aberystwyth University, 01970 621580, www.aber.ac.uk/learning
October & November
CUP CERAMICS
Sat 5 Oct - Pottery Taster Course.This taster course is for individuals, couples, families and friends and is a fantastic opportunity to get your hands in some clay as well as making something fun and functional. We recommend that the minimum age is 14 when accompanied by an adult on the course and 16+ without adult supervision.£55 (includes fired and glazed pots). Sat 12 Oct - Altered Forms and Mocha Diffusion with Bill Rolls - In this 4 hour session you will learn how to make simple altered forms using the extruder. You will learn the process of mocha diffusion, and have the opportunity to practice the process on the pots prepared earlier. £70 Materials are supplied, price includes 2 items glazed and fired. Sun 27 Oct - One Day Intensive Pottery Course - If you are new to clay this course will introduce you to making pots on a wheel - throwing, and hand-building pots . If you already have some experience this course will enable you to practice what you already know and extend your knowledge - £125 includes 4 fired pots. Ceramics Festival Hereford Nov 1st - 3rd - FREE EVENT - Delivered between Maylord Orchards, Hereford City Centre and CUP Studio the festival offers talks, demonstrations, raku firings, ceramics market and an art trail. www.cupceramics.com Cup Ceramics, Unit 10, Foley Trading Estate, Hereford, 07548 629525.
October
SHREWSBURY MUSEUM & ART GALLERY
Until 30 Oct Walking Tours. Meet at Old Market Theatre, 2.15pm, £11.50, child £6, family £29. Until 10 Dec - Museum Babies. Drop-in sensory play session for babies 0-18 months, 10am-12pm. Until 17 Oct - Mini Mammoths for ages 2-4 years, 10.30am-12pm. Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, Market Square, Shrewsbury, 01743 258881.
October
HEREFORD CATHEDRAL
8 Oct - Lego Club Space, 3.45pm-5pm, free, booking not required. 31 Oct Narnia Messy Church - Narnia themed Messy Church, including crafts and activities for all the family, 12pm-2pm, free and booking not required. Mondays term time - Toddler Group, craft activities and prayer; suitable 1-3 years, 9.30am, free. Thurs (term time) - Cathedral Seedlings new todder group for ages 1-3 years, 10am-11.30am. Hereford Cathedral, 01432 374225.
October
ORIEL DAVIES GALLERY
The gallery will be closed until the spring. However, work will continue in the community during this time. Check the website for upcoming events. Oriel Davies Gallery, Newtown, 01686 625041, www.orieldavies.org
October Courses (online)
LIFELONG LEARNING - ABERYSTWYTH ONLINE
1 Oct - Drawing Children Course, £130. 1 Oct - Historical Perspectives on Contemporary Art Course, £130.
1 Oct - Natural History Illustration Seedheads Course £70. 1 Oct - Towards Abstraction Course, £140.
14 Oct - Drawn from Observation Course, £130. 01970 621580, www.aber.ac.uk/learning
October
THE COURTYARD, HEREFORD
Tues - Playing Together, interactive play session for older adults and pre-school children with accompanying parents/ carers, 11am-12pm, £3. Thurs - Hereford Life Drawing, 10am-1pm, £8. The Courtyard Theatre, Hereford, 01432 340555.
October
EASTNOR POTTERY
INTRO TO THE POTTERS WHEEL £60 per person. Perfect indoor activity for individuals, couples and small groups. 1.5 hr sessions take place on specific dates throughout October. POTTERS WHEEL COURSES 5, 9, 19, 26 & 27 October. Day £180. Weekend £340 per person. Spend the day or weekend relaxing and creating pots on the potter’s wheel. CLAY MODELLING 11am 29 October. £40 per person. Themed Pottery Fun for all the family at Eastnor Pottery. Eastnor Pottery, Home Farm, Eastnor, near Ledbury. Please check availability and book online, www.eastnorpottery.co.uk Email admin@eastnorpottery.co.uk or telephone 01531 633886.
October
SIDNEY NOLAN TRUST
4 Oct - Introduction to Astrophotography with Rebecca Reynolds, 7pm-11pm, £30. 19 Oct - ABETContemporary art programme for adults, 10am-2pm, £25 includes all materials and lunch. 26 Oct - Cultivate Youth Arts Programme for ages 11-18, 10am-2pm, free. Sidney Nolan Trust, The Rodd, Presteigne. To book, 01544 260149, www.sidneynolantrust.org
October VICKI NORMAN STUDIOS
13 - 15 Oct - Figure Painting, Newlyn, Cornwall. 17 & 18 Oct - Portrait Painting, Newlyn, Cornwall. Details www.vickinormanstudio.com
October STAINED GLASS COURSES
With Nicola Hopwood. Long weekend workshops for beginners and those with some experience, in a lively and supportive atmosphere. 19 - 22 Oct, 12 - 15 April & 17 - 20 May 2025. Brilley, near Hay-on-Wye, £300 per person (plus materials). 01497 820177, email info@nicolahopwood.co.uk, www.nicolahopwood.co.uk
Thursdays KNIGHTON ART GROUP
Any level welcome. Any medium accepted. Lunch served from 12pm. Knighton Community Centre, 1-3pm, £3 per session. Kay Yendole, 07624 379335.
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, 7-9.20pm, £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 (opposite the Blue Boar), Hay-on-Wye, 7-9.30pm, block book in advance £90 for 10 weeks or drop-in for £11, 07855 628627.
a view from the marches
An Alternative Upper House?
THERE is no shortage of debate over public opinion Bell Curve analysis, but there remains a consensus that 68% of public views and conclusions cluster around the apex of the bell. This suggests that, in balance, the broad population are right more often than they are wrong; this is more than can be said for many professional politicians. It is, after all, the key basis of the practice of trial by jury, as against trial by solo judge. If juries err from time to time, it is usually because they have been misinformed or misled, as were the 38% of the eligible electorate who voted for Brexit in 2016.
This is a large and useful resource which in light of the burgeoning distrust of our legislators would be useful to consider deploying in at least one of our legislative houses, whose composition is now, quite properly, a subject of vigorous debate. The composition of the Upper House of Parliament has significant implications in the way laws are drafted in this country and for the nation’s relationship with its legislators. This has provoked the debate over its membership that has been long, passionate and, so far, inconclusive. A lack of conclusion is not surprising because currently the options under discussion are limited to only two - election by the public, or appointment by the government, or a combination of the two.
While, of course, it is not an option to revert to the old hereditary peerage, that system did have some positive characteristics that contributed to its surprising objectivity and efficacy in knocking unsatisfactory or impractical sharp edges off bills sent up for its consideration.
First, the hereditary members were not, as individuals, answerable either to a party that had appointed them, nor to an electorate that had voted for them, which allowed them to react honestly, as their instincts, experience and judgment directed them.
Secondly, the house then contained representatives of two groups of people who would have stood no chance of gaining either an appointed or an elected seat – the unambitious and the unacademic – and who may, nevertheless, have had sound contributions to make to any debate.
In creating a house that truly reflects all the citizens of this nation, the non-aspiring and the less bright, have just as much right to be directly represented as the clever and the pushy
Thirdly, the old system benefited from the sheer randomness (apart from gender and ethnicity) of heredity in age, intelligence, faith and personal interests.
While the inherent unfairness and unrepresentativeness of a houseful of landowning or, at least, for the most part, rich males of privileged background, was both irrelevant and not sustainable, we should consider how
we might create a House that can bring those useful characteristics of the former House to bear on the shaping of our national laws.
Few substantive alternative ideas have been put forward or, among the legislators themselves, even considered. It has been suggested at one stage that the House of Lords be repopulated by inviting various ‘organisations’ to vote in or nominate their representatives. This was appealing in the diversity it might have produced, but it would have been impossible to set up in a way that would broadly be perceived as fair, and it would tend to favour the clever and the assertive.
However, there is undoubtedly a strong public aversion either to a chamber full of political appointees or to just a second tier of elected party faithful. Both groups have patrons to appease. Even the politicians (albeit a little disingenuously) plead the case for ‘true representation’. Other ways of achieving this should be put into the debate and considered. One such could be Renewable Peerage by Random Selection [RPRS].
From the electoral register of each of our parliamentary constituencies, every voter is identified by a unique letter/number combination. ERNIE at the National Savings Centre (or his descendant) would pluck a random number from each roll, and the voter thus identified would be required by law to become a peer, receiving appropriate allowances and remuneration for a mandatory minimum number of attendances, with incentives for full attendance (and penalties for non-attendance.)
This system of selection would provide a truly unbiased, fully representative second chamber of 630 members, containing a great breadth of experience, specialist knowledge, common sense and a genuine understanding of survival on an average or low income; a worthy body to review and revise the bills sent to it by the elected House. An appointment to the Lords in this way would generally present a real rise in living standard and the opportunity to learn and advance as a result of a term of office in the House. It would be welcomed by the vast majority of appointees.
PetrusOnus
Breathwork For Health
A practical workshop exploring how breathing practices work and why they are beneficial for our physical and mental wellbeing
Saturday 16th November Community Centre, Knighton 10.30-12pm Old School, Presteigne 3-4.30pm
All welcome £10 suggested donation
Further info: wingsofchange24@gmail.com
architecture
Liquorice Allsorts
WHAT a pity that the prestigious British architectural award The Stirling Prize has lost its way and is now just a collection of baubles. Like a school Speech Day writ large. Created in 1996 in memory of James Stirling and administered by a committee drawn from the ranks of the RIBA’s Great & The Good, it was envisaged to become Britain’s answer to the Pritzker Prize. If judiciously and even-handedly managed, it was argued, it might one day become the UK’s answer to Sweden’s Nobel prizes.
Stirling himself was a quirky character - a one-off, with a girth as big as Alfred Hitchcock - who didn’t suffer fools. Many of his major projects attracted controversy: an extension to Millbank’s Tate Gallery hardly ‘blended’ with the original mock-Grecian original; the City of London’s Number One Poultry, facing – almost pulling a face at –The Mansion House (Prince Charles said it reminded him of a 1930s wireless set) was read by many as a snub to the illiterate planners and planning inspector who had turned down an elegant point block by Mies Van Der Rohe; and the University of Cambridge’s gargantuan History Faculty Library, amusingly depicting a huge up-ended opened book, suffered for years from excessive sunlight and water ingress. Highpoint of Stirling’s career (cut short by his premature death in 1992) was probably the Royal Academy’s 1986 triple-tribute exhibition Foster, Rogers, Stirling.
For 2024 – under the aegis of the Institute’s current President Muyiwa Oki – we are being asked to venerate projects as diverse as an expensive makeover of London’s National Portrait Gallery to the conversion of a redundant Dorset dairy (Wraxall Yard) and some lowrise housing in Hackney. Allies & Morrison’s long-running King’s Cross Masterplan (15 Years in the making) is the largest, yet can hardly be described as ‘an architectural entity’ – like Corb’s Chandigarh or Milton Keynes; the new Crossrail underground network – although now London’s most popular tube line – is first and foremost an engineering achievement; and the National Portrait Gallery’s £41-million root-and-branch transformation is hardly cutting-edge 21st century architecture in the mould of Stuttgart’s Neue Galerie, even though this
eye-watering price tag includes three pairs of bronze entrance doors inset with 45 engraved glass panels by Tracy Emin. The capital’s last big art gallery to have such a costly transformation was the National Gallery in 1991, when its £30-million Sainsbury Wing by Venturi & Scott Brown was hastily brought in to replace the ‘carbuncular’ design which had so displeased the Heir to the Throne.
Longtime followers of this column will know of my admiration for those buccaneering developers Urban Splash. Their rescue of the late Ivor Smith’s 60-yearold Park Hill Estate, Sheffield – a labour of love (and near-bankruptcy) spanning more than a decade – is, to my mind, the scheme which most deserves the Stirling accolade. In its day, there was nothing inherently wrong with the concept of ‘system building’ (using off-site manufactured storey-height panels); it was the architectural charlatans who highjacked it. Fortuitously for the good folk of Sheffield, Urban Splash rode to the rescue.
The Stirling Prize winner is due to be announced at the end of this month.
As I’m sure you can’t have overlooked, Kevin McLeod’s rather portentously-styled Grand Designs is 25 years old this year and along the way has also managed to spawn an annual exhibition - alternating between Earls Court and the NEC – as well as a one-off event in London’s Docklands which drew in over 100,000. As I write this, WH Smiths are probably loading their Christmas Books shelves with volumes of Grand Designs at 25.
Ex-architect George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces (both shows originated on Channel Four) has established itself at the whackier end of the self-build spectrum. Earlier this year Geordie George located a man in Wales who’d purchased - sight unseen - an ex-Ministry of War WWII underground bomb shelter which he intended to live in; and another odd ball (probably the man’s brother) who’d bought the rusting bridge house of an old fishing trawler which he intended to cut up and bolt together as a seaside holiday home. There’s none so queer as folk.
Nick Jones
Park Hill, Sheffield
History Faculty Library, Cambridge
THE JOKER: FOLIE A DEUX (12A) – 138 MINS
One of our more versatile stars, e.g. HER, THE SISTERS BROTHERS, Joaquin Phoenix, also does unhinged better than most, e.g. THE MASTER, YOU WERE NEVER REALLY HERE, as this follow-up to 2019’s THE JOKER amply proves. Following his outrageous, Gotham City killing spree in as Arthur Fleck in that film, he’s now awaiting trial in a psychiatric jail where he’s bullied by a guard (a nonchalant Brendan Gleeson) and it seems worshipped by another, equally crazy inmate Harleen Quinzel (Lady Gaga, here a dead-spit for a young Rosanna Arquette). And since any film involving Gaga must become a musical, despite the rake-thin Phoenix’s limited vocal range, that’s what, if incongruously, we get. Whilst his lawyer (a steely Catherine Keener) inevitably pleads split personality disorder responsible for Fleck’s violent homicides, much of director/co-writer Todd Phillip’s sequel centres on the mad chemistry ‘twixt Harleen and Fleck which is, yes, madly entertaining.
All reviews by Mark Williams
CONQUEST, BROMYARD
4 Oct THE FALL GUY (12) Conquest Theatre, Bromyard. 01885 488575
COURTYARD, HEREFORD
Until 3 Oct FIREBRAND (15)
Until 3 Oct LEE (15)
Until 10 Oct THE CRITIC (15)
The Courtyard Theatre, Edgar St, Hereford 01432 340555
2 Oct A BUNCH OF AMATEURS (15) Cardington VH 01694 771295
2 Oct IO CAPITANO (15) The Phoenix Theatre, Ross on Wye 07789 778048
2 Oct PRISCILLA (15) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125
2 Oct ONE LIFE (12) Diddlebury VH 07296 730342
3 Oct AND THEN COME THE NIGHTJARS (15) 01952 728911
3 Oct BACK TO BLACK (15) SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630321
3 Oct SUNSHINE ON LEITH (PG) LIndridge Parish Hall 01584 881615
ABERGAVENNY FILM SOC.
9 Oct ROBOT DREAM (PG)
23 Oct THE QUIET GIRL (12)
6 Nov IO CAPITANO (15) Melville Centre, Pen y Pound, Abergavenny NP7 5UD. Check for times. A limited number of seats available for non-members aged 18+ www.abergavennyfilmsociety.com
ASSEMBLY ROOMS, LUDLOW
1 Oct THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO (12A)
2, 5, 7 Oct LEE (15)
9 & 10 Oct THE CRITIC (15) 12, 14, 29 & 30 Oct BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE (ctbc)
14 Oct MY FAVOURITE CAKE (ctbc) 21, 22 & 28 Oct FIREBRAND (15)
21 & 24 Oct NOTES FROM SHEEPLAND (ctbc) 28, 29 & 31 Oct DRAGONKEEPER (ctbc)
31 Oct THE OUTRUN (ctbc)
Assembly Rooms, Mill St, Ludlow, 01584 878141
BOOTH’S BOOKSHOP, H-O-W
4 - 6 Oct LEE (15)
11 - 13 Oct THE CRITIC (15) 26 & 27 Oct DISNEY JUNIOR CINEMA CLUB (U)
Richard Booth’s Bookshop, Hay-on-Wye. 01497 822010
11 Oct BOB MARLEY - ONE LOVE (12) Clungunford VH 01588 660159
11 Oct BRIGHT STAR (PG) Knighton Community Centre 07964 023841
11 Oct SWEDE CAROLINE (15) Habberley VH 07977 127161
11 Oct ALLELUJAH (12A) The Old Picture House, Kington 07855 254590
11 Oct A HAUNTING IN VENICE (12A) The Simpson Hall, Burghill 07726 148736
12 Oct WICKED LITTLE LETTERS (15) Lady Emily Hall, Tarrington 01432 890720
12 Oct A HAUNTING IN VENICE (12A) Ombersley Memorial VH 01905 620350
12 Oct WICKED LITTLE LETTERS (15) Bayston Hill Memoral Hall 01743 872096
12 Oct WICKED LITTLE LETTERS (15 )Martley Memorial Hall 01886 888406
14 Oct EDIE (12A) The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911
15 Oct NOBODY HAS TO KNOW (12A) SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630321
16 Oct THE BIKERIDERS (15) Myddle VH 07706 450075
17 Oct WILDING (PG) Gorsley VH 01989 750649
17 Oct FREMONT (12A) The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911
17 Oct VINDICATION SWIM (PG) Silvester Horne Institute, Church Stretton 07429 237955
17 Oct SCRAPPER (12) Much Birch Community Hall 01981 540097
FIREBRAND (15) – 121 MINS
Like the latest JOKER, Argentinian director Karin Aïnoux’s period drama features a disturbed and disturbing despot Henry VIII, and a formidable woman, his last wife, Catherine Parr. Played by a padded-out Jude Law with a literally suppurating menace and Alicia Vikander with rather more intensity and inner life than in her big last period drama, TULIP FEVER, the scene is set for a battle of wills in which there’s no clear winner –although unlike Henry’s other wives, she lived to tell the tale – against a backdrop of looming church versus state and Machiavellian intrigue, the latter exemplified by Simon Russell Beale as Bishop Gardiner, with echoes of his gloriously conniving role in THE DEATH OF STALIN. As a fitful Edward Seymour, Eddie Marsan is also on hand to provide Gardiner with evidence of Catherine’s extra-marital skullduggery but ultimately it’s Law’s magisterial, if deranged performance that steals the show.
17 Oct SEE HOW THEY RUN (12A) Pencombe and Little Cowarne Parish Hall 07960 726717
17 Oct THE OLD OAK (15) Norbury VH 07929 366745
18 Oct NAPOLEON (15) Knighton Community Centre 07964 023841
18 Oct BOB MARLEY - ONE LOVE (12) Stoke Prior VH 07850 030821
18 Oct SCRAPPER (12) Bosbury Parish Hall 01531 640333
18 Oct TINA (15) Whitchurch & Ganarew Memorial Hall
18 Oct CRAZY, STUPID, LOVE (12) The Old Picture House, Kington 07855 254590
19 Oct ONE LIFE (12) Cleobury Mortimer Parish Hall 01299 270047
19 Oct A HAUNTING IN VENICE (12A) Upton upon Severn Memorial Hall 01684 592273
19 Oct THE WOMAN IN BLACK (12) Hanley Broadheath VH 07471 192649
19 Oct THE COURIER (12) Trefonen VH 01691 657011
21 Oct VINDICATION SWIM (PG)
The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911
22 Oct BENEDICTION (12) Acton Scott VH 01694 781260
22 Oct DRIVING MADELEINE (15) All Stretton VH 07812 583113
24 Oct THE WAY (12A) The New Inn, Pembridge 07774 237718
25 Oct ONE LIFE (12) Colwall VH 07891 668124
25 Oct THE GREAT ESCAPER (12A) Himbleton VH 01905 391143
25 Oct THE FALL GUY (12) Longden VH 07539 545846
25 Oct YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN (U)
The Old Picture House, Kington 07855 254590
25 Oct PEPPERMINT SODA (12) Hafan Yr Afon, Newtown 07939 273525
25 Oct THE LESSON (15) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125
25 Oct ONE LIFE (12) Himbleton VH 01905 391143
26 Oct ONE LIFE (12) Rodington VH 01952 771147
29 Oct A UNITED KINGDOM (12A) Vicars Cross Community Centre 07861 041795
29 Oct THE GOOD LIAR (15) Loppington VH 07932 737967
30 Oct THE CANTERVILLE GHOST (PG) Leominster Community Centre 01568 616411
30 Oct INSIDE OUT 2 (U) Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms 01588 676060
31 Oct THE TROUBLE WITH JESSICA (15) Goodrich VH 01600 890609
Starring Kate Winslet and based loosely on Anthony Penrose’s biog, The Lives of Lee Miller, director Ellen Kuras – with her cinematographer’s keen eye – concentrates on Miller’s life as a brilliant war photographer whilst paying lip-service to her earlier roles as top fashion model and artist’s muse. Structurally, it’s a series of flashbacks mainly from a 1977 interview the aging Miller (Winslet in persuasive prosthetics) gives to a young journalist at her Sussex cottage propelling us back to her rather louche pre-WW2 life in Paris with best friend Solange (Marion Cottilard) and lover Roland (Alexander Skarsgard). Then he and Lee move to London where, encouraged by Vogue’s UK editor (a magnetic Andrea Riseborough) she shoots iconic photos of the Blitz before moving into Europe to capture often harrowing images of the war itself, many alongside Life photographer David Sherman (Andy Samberg). Winslet is suitably charismatic and utterly convincing as are Lee’s images which pepper this riveting bio-pic.
THE EDGE ARTS CENTRE
3 Oct AND THEN COME THE NIGHTJARS (15)
7 Oct A BUNCH OF AMATEURS (15)
10 Oct THE NETTLE DRESS (12A)
14 Oct EDIE (12A)
17 Oct FREMONT (12A)
21 Oct VINDICATION SWIM (PG)
The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911
THE HAFREN, NEWTOWN
30 Oct ONE LIFE (12A)
The Hafren, Newtown, 01686 948100
HAY CASTLE, HAY-ON-WYE
26 Oct THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW (18) Throw on those rose tinted glasses and stockings, dressing is encouraged but not mandatory, 8pm. Hay Castle, Oxford Rd, Hay-on-Wye, 01497 820079 www.haycastletrust.org
MARKET THEATRE, LEDBURY
2 Oct PRISCILLA (15)
25 Oct THE LESSON (15) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125
MONTGOMERY MOVIE CLUB
5 Oct STITCHING PALESTINE
10 Oct WICKED LITTLE LETTERS (15)
24 Oct BACK TO BLACK (15)
25 Oct 22 YEARS OF MOVIE CLUB, A RETROSPECTIVE Talk by chairman, Mike Mills discusses some of the best films and includes film clips and a short film at the end.
7 Nov CHUCK CHUCK BABY (15)
Please check - Town Hall or Dragon Hotel, Montgomery, 7.30pm or 8pm, 01686 668442
OLD MARKET HALL,
SHREWS.
Until 3 Oct THE CRITIC (ctbc) Old Market Hall, Shrewsbury, 01743 281281
National Theatre. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7pm, 07967 517125.
23 Oct GROUNDED
New York Met Opera. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 6pm, 01885 488575.
26 Oct WOLF WITCH GIANT FAIRY
Royal Opera. The Courtyard, Hereford, 5.15pm, 01432 340555.
1 Nov WOLF WITCH GIANT FAIRY
Royal Ballet & Opera. Family opera. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 2pm & 6pm, 01584 878141.
2 Nov WOLF WITCH GIANT FAIRY
Royal Ballet & Opera. Family opera. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 2pm, 01584 811442.
3 Nov THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
From The Royal Albert Hall. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7pm, 01432 340555. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 3pm, 01982 552555.
5 Nov THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
From The Royal Albert Hall. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, 01600 772467. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 7pm, 01982 552555.
6, 9 & 23 Nov VAN GOGH, POETS & LOVERS
Exhibition on Screen. The Courtyard, Hereford, check times, 01432 340555.
8 Nov WOLF WITCH GIANT FAIRY
The Royal Opera. The Hafren, Newtown, 6.30pm, 01686 948100.
WORKSHOPS
CALL OUT TO FILM FANS
Borderlines, Britain’s largest rural film festival, celebrated its 22nd year in 2024 with record audiences at 23 venues across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Malvern and the Welsh Borders. The festival’s major cinemas are the Courtyard in Hereford, Malvern Theatres and Ludlow Assembly Rooms but Borderlines is unique in that it also includes village halls and community centres. Borderlines is looking for new people to join its board of directors to help oversee the event and play an active role during the next festival at the beginning of March 2025. So, if you love the festival, you’re a keen film fan and have experience in business, finance and other fields they’d love to hear from you. To find out more contact Steve Freer, chair of Borderlines at steve.freer@borderlinesfilmfestival. co.uk
Every Tuesday YOUTH CAFE
Young people (8-16) can meet and share creative activites including music, drama and films. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 01743 234970 Wednesdays FILM MAKING CLUB
For ages 11-17. The Courtyard, Hereford, 6-7.30pm, £75 per term, 01432 340555.
John Singer Sargent: Fashion and Swagger
Dance Performance
Tues 8 October
UNFURL
THRIVE DANCE. A contemporary dance performance that explores the environment on both global and intimate scales. Suitable for all ages (children must be able to sit still during the performance). Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 5.30pm, £10, 01584 878141.
Tues 8 October
NOW
JASMIN VARDIMON uses her distinctive dance theatre and creative approach to tell a story of our time. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £19/£11, 01743 281281.
Sat 12 October
SHED
NORTHERN RASCALS. Using digital art, spoken word and contemporary dance to raise awareness of the mental health issues many young people face. For ages 14+.
Wem Town Hall, 7.30pm, £14/£8, 01939 232299. Arts Alive.
Sun 13 October
THE NUTCRACKER
IMPERIAL CLASSICAL BALLET present a lavish ballet for the festive season, featuring a live orchestra with over 30 musicians. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £47 - £28.60, 01743 281281.
Mon 14 October
SWAN LAKE
IMPERIAL CLASSICAL BALLET presents a timeless ballet with exquisite dancing, featuring a live orchestra. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £47.30-£28.60, 01743 281281.
Thurs 24 October
EARLY WEAVES
ASCENSION DANCE COMPANY. A heart-warming tale of re-connecting with loved ones. Meet Willow and Weave and watch as they inspire each other to dive deep into their own sense of imagination. Family show.
NATIONAL DANCE COMPANY WALES. This entrancing family experience combines all the fun of the fair with acrobatics and dance to explore the meaning of life, the origins of film and our attraction to magic.
17 Oct - Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 1pm, 01874 611622. 25 Oct - The Hafren, Newtown, 1pm, £9, 01686 948100.
Wed 16 & Sat 26 October FRONTIERS
NATIONAL DANCE COMPANY WALES. Escape to the edge of your seat for a double bill. ‘August’ by Matthew William Robinson and ‘Skinners’ by Melanie Lane. 16 Oct - Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622. 26 Oct - The Hafren, Newtown, 7.30pm, £16, under 18s £13, 01686 948100.
Mon 28 October
SWAN LAKE
CROWN BALLET. A legend of a tragic romance in which a princess, Odette, is turned into a swan by an evil curse. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
Tues 29 October
THE NUTCRACKER
CROWN BALLET. A charming and kind fairy tale, one of the jewels of Tchaikovsky’s repertoire. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
Dance Workshops
Single, dated listings are free. Year round entries £45.
Tues 8 October
THRIVE DANCE WORKSHOP
An energetic and joyful creative movement workshop for children and their grown-ups. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 10am, £8, 01584 878141.
PINSLEY MILL MORRIS
Women’s Northwest morris and clog, are looking to welcome more dancers. We meet every Tuesday at 8pm, Kingsland Village, HR6 9SQ. No experience necessary! Email PinsleyMillMorris@gmail.com for more details, or just turn up. Come and join Herefordshire’s newest Morris side!
Early Weaves
SILVER SWANS ADULT BALLET CLASSES
Adult Ballet and Low Impact Tap classesThe Larruperz Centre, Ross-On-Wye, Tuesdays 1:30 -2:30 Silver Swans Ballet, 2:35-3:20 Adult Tap. Adult Ballet Class 2Faced Dance Centre for Movement, The Old Court, Gaol St, Hereford; Wednesdays 6:15 - 7:15pm. All ages and beginners welcome, £7 PAYG/Drop In. Tel: 07854793960. Email: creativefitness20@gmail.comcreativefitness.org.uk
DANCE WITH ALANYA Shimmy Central Adult Belly Dance. All levels welcome. Bodenham Parish Hall, HR1 3LB. 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month, 1-3pm. £14 pay-as-you-go, bookings by the previous Wednesday. Move with the Groove Upbeat Dance Exercise. Classic tracks from Disco to Swing - follow-on steps or do your own thing. Meet and make friends. Kingswood Village Hall, HR5 3HE. Mondays, 11.00am-12.00 noon £6 no-obligation taster, then £24 per 4-week block.For full information visit http://alanyadance.uk or call Abbie on 07962 161081, alanyadancer@gmail.com
LEARN 2 JIVE 50’S SWING STYLE CLASSES
Mon - Bartestree Village Hall, Hereford, 7.30pm. Silvester Horne Institute, Church Stretton, 7.30pm. Tues - Pembridge Village Hall, 7.30pm. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm. Claines Parish Hall, Worcester, 7.30pm. Wed - Burford Village Hall, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm. Holy Trinity Parish Hall, Malvern, 7.30pm. Holmer Church Parish Centre, Hereford. Thurs - Ledbury Dance Studio, Bye Street, 7.30pm. Abberley Village Hall, 7.30pm. Penybont Community Centre, 7.30pm. Sun - Eardisley Village Hall, 6.30pm. 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.
COURTYARD, HEREFORD CLASSES
Adult Classes. Mon - Contemporary Dance with LG Dance, 6.30pm. www.lauragale.co.uk. Mon - Commercial Dance with LG Dance, 7.30pm-8.25pm, £25 per month. Mon - Zumba, 11am-11.45am. Tues - Commercial Dance with LG Dance, 6.30pm-7.25pm, £25 per month. Tues Heels Class with LG Dance, 7.30pm-8.30pm, £25 per month. Tues - Street Jazz with LG Dance, 6.30pm. www.lauragale.co.uk Wed - Fit4Tap, 10am-10.45am. Thurs - Silver Swans Adult Ballet, 1pm, www.starlightcompany.co.uk Fri - Chance to Dance, 10.15am. Junior Classes. Mon - Junior Contemporary for ages 7-12, 4.30pm, £25 per month. Mon - Senior Contemporary for ages 13-18, 5.30pm, £25 per month. Tues - Junior Commercial, for ages 8-12, 4.30pm, £25 per month. Tues - Senior Commercial for ages 13-18, 5.30pm, £25 per month. Wed - Mini Streetz for ages 4-8, 4.45pm, £23 per month. Wed - Junior Streetz for ages 9-12, 5.30pm. Wed - Senior Streetz for ages 13-24, 6.30pm, £25 per month. Fri - Dancing Tots for ages 2-4, 11.30am. Sat - Twinkling Stars for ages 2-4 incorporating Makaton sign, musical movement, sensory play and fun, 9.30am. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.
ASSEMBLY ROOMS DANCE CLASSES
Weekly - Circle Dancing, no partner required, 1.453.45pm, £5, contact Kathryn 01584 877446. WeeklyGKY Dance. Dance and acrobatics for children, various classes, 4-9pm, £4.75-£6.25, contact Grace Young 07939 638637. Weekly - Learn 2 Jive, beginners 7.30-8.30pm, intermediates 8.30-9.30pm, no partner needed, £6, contact Matt info@coolmovesdance.co.uk. Zumba - 7-8pm, £5, contact Honor 07527 183231. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 01584 878141.
Fortnightly Saturdays CHORUS LINE
Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 07943 417561.
Mondays REGAL DANCE
Join Katy for weekly lessons in the Regal Studio. Ages 6-9 years, 4.15pm-5pm. Ages 10-14 years, 5pm6pm. Regal, Tenbury Wells, £6, www.regaltenbury.co.uk
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.
Tuesdays, Thursdays - Saturdays MID WALES DANCE ACADEMY
Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 07943 417561.
Tuesdays SOLO LATINO DANCE
Parish Hall, Hay-on-Wye, 7-8.30pm. Mely 07837 160505. 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
The Black Bear, Bettws Newydd, near Usk
ACORRESPONDENT, Rebecca, no doubt spotting that Mr Pernickety had eaten, and approved of a Chicken Milanese while preparing last month’s review of Cotto in Hereford, has quite properly drawn his attention to the plight of the 2.9 million chickens that are slaughtered every day in Great Britain. Where do they all go? How many fried chicken dispensaries are there in the high streets and seedy back streets of our nation? How many tens of millions of chicken McNuggets are chewed by children across the land each day?
Mr P is chastened. Usually when he buys a chicken to eat at home, he insists that it has been benignly reared, in conditions that don’t damage the ecosystem, and is happy to pay a premium for that. In a busy Italian restaurant, he should have, but failed to enquire after the background and lifestyle of the creature he was about to consume.
What is more alarming than the sheer numbers involved in this daily massacre are the conditions in which its victims are kept during their hideously truncated six week lives. It’s hard to believe that food produced in this way could possibly be nutritious. Beyond this horror, when not wrapped in batter or soused in mouth-burning oriental spices, the white flesh of these factory-made birds is as satisfying as a mouthful of cotton wool. Just as bad is the destruction wrought on the country surrounding the industrial plants which are their homes. There are hundreds of chicken sheds clustered around the banks of the River Wye which cause torrents of excrement to leach into surrounding watercourses and ultimately into this once loveliest of British rivers – a result of successive governments lacking the courage and the teeth to pass or enforce laws to protect such a vital environment. Mr Pernickety thoroughly applauds Rebecca’s intervention and urges his readers to consider their culinary choices.
Fortunately, eating in The Black Bear Inn near Usk, Mr P faced no dilemma over the matter of fowl husbandry. No chicken of any description appeared on the menu. Mr P senses that if it did, it would be of the contented, happily nurtured variety, for this establishment shows all the signs of being run by people who care passionately about the taste and texture of the food and ingredients they serve. They also appear to understand what a good clientele is looking for in a country pub. This is place in which Mr P feels he would enjoy sitting at the bar drinking a pint of beer while eating from a range of amazingly conceived and well-priced snacks (Whipped Cod’s Roe with Fried Potato Skins £6; Fava Bean Panisse, Beetroot Ketchup, Pumpkins Seeds £5) The atmosphere of the bar seems conducive to fine, well-informed conversation, which Mr P looks forward to enjoying another time.
He went with his old friend, the Fussy Foodie (whom he last took to the Walnut Tree, lucky chap). After an enchanting drive through the small hills of midMonmouthshire, they suddenly found themselves in the midst of the picturesque village of Bettws Newydd. In a few yards they had reached their destination – a plain,
unpretentious whitewashed boozer, with no cutesy or flashy embellishment to suggest that there was anything precious about it. Such modesty; what a relief.
Mr Pernickety’s spirits soared when they walked in. It seemed to him a perfect country pub, as comfortable as your favourite armchair, and, to give a life-affirming boost, the sublime sound of Miles Davis’ trumpet in the background – Kind of Blue, no less. Had some sixth sense informed the management?
Mr P had asked the FF to come with him because he has high standards and is disinclined to moderate his views. The menu (lunch and dinner are the same) offers just three starters and three main courses, changed weekly. All the dishes look quite special, as if they had taken imagination and resourcefulness to devise.
To start, the FF chose Beetroot, Apple, Walnut, Cora Linn and bitter leaves. (For those few who don’t know, Cora Linn is a cheese made from raw sheep’s milk on a family farm in Lanarkshire). He was delighted by the unexpected combination – the hallmark of a real chef. Mr P’s first course held even more exciting surprises – Cold Roast Pork Belly, French Bean Vinaigrette, Pickled Carrot, Tropea (sweet red Italian) Onion – all super flavours to juxtapose – a Beethoven quartet of a dish.
From a list to boggle the mind of any oenophile, they ordered a Rioja as well-rounded as a Prima Donna’s derriere to accompany their main course; for Mr P, Cod with Brown Shrimp Butter Sauce – delicious, delicate, fresh flavour. The FF was served a Sirloin of Shetland Beef with Bone Marrow and Wild Garlic Butter, which moved him visibly to nod his firm approval – highest praise. After faultless puddings of Blackcurrant & Oat Crumble, and a Lemon & Ginger Steamed Sponge, they sat back, joyously replete. Mr P declared it the best lunch he had eaten since his conception. The FF, naturally less ebullient, did not disagree.
Although the Black Bear is a little south of the Woolly Organ’s cloven hoofprint, it’s worth an hour’s drive. Tell them Mr P sent you. Mr Pernickety
EVENTS
October
APPLEFEST AT NEWTON COURT
Until 12 Oct - Special AppleFest lunch menu. Until 5 Oct - Apple harvest cider tours, 1.15pm.
3 - 5, 10-12 Oct - Wooden Apple Painting, make your own fridge magnet, coaster or decoration. Newton Court, Newton Lane, Leominster, HR6 0PF. Open Mon-Sat 9am-4.30pm, Sun 9.30am-3.30pm, 01568 611721.
Tues 1 October
THE COURTYARD’S TEA PARTY
Hosted by Rachel Freeman. Filled with music, tea, cakes and dancing. Dementia friendly. The Courtyard, Hereford, 2pm, 01432 340555.
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 HELLENS PRODUCE MARKET Local products and enjoy a breakfast. Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, near Ledbury, 9.30-11.30am, 01531 660504, www.hellensmanor.com
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.
2nd Saturday of every month BRECON FARMERS & MAKERS MARKET Brecon Indoor Market Hall, 9.30am - 4pm. 07926 196714.
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. 01547 520332.
3rd Saturday of every month FARMER’S MARKET
Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 9am-1pm, 01588 630023.
1st Thursday EVENING FARMER’S MARKET
The Barn, Ledbury, 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
FOOD BYTES
Why not advertise? Only £45 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.
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.
YE OLDE TAVERN, KINGTON 01544 231417 Food served Wed-Fri 5pm-9pm, Sat 12pm-9pm, Sun 12pm-8pm. Thursday Steak Night, 8oz Rump and a drink, £14.50.
Harp recital. St Mary’s Church, Ross-on-Wye, 1pm, free, retiring collection. 01989 562175.
BRECON FOLK AND MORE CLUB
The Muse, Glamorgan St, Brecon, 7.30pm, 07791 654799.
ESCAPE ROOM
You have one hour to crack the code and escape from the Old Chapel! Hereford Cathedral. Please book, www.herefordcathedral.org
THE LEFT BANK VILLAGE WEDDINGS & EVENTS OPEN EVENING
The Left Bank, Bridge St, Hereford, 5-7.30pm, RSVP 01432 357753.
EXTRA-ORDINARY, FANTASTIC FOLK FUNDRAISER!
Featuring John Kirkpatrick and Sue Harris, supported by headliner, Benji Kirkpatrick. Introduced by compere Keith Kendrick. A fundraiser for and at The Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells, 7.30pm, £18, 01982 552555. Merchandise available at interval and afterwards, bring cash for a raffle!
Thurs 3 October
HCA COLLEGE OPEN MIC NIGHT
Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, free entry, 01432 360250.
OPEN MIC
West Malvern Social Club, 145 West Malvern Rd, Malvern, 9pm, wmsc.org.uk
DIRE STREETS
The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
Fri 4 October
BEYOND THE BARRICADE
The cast of Broadway and the West End. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
THE HISTORY OF ROCK
Rediscover the seeds of Rock ‘n’ Roll of the 1950s, the birth of Rock in the 60s, right through to the Classic Rock of the 70s and 80s. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £25, 01873 850805.
With DJ Roddy Hankins. Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, £12, 01432 357753.
DARTS LIVE IN CONCERT
Greatest Hits Tour. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.
KICKBACK
Featuring Manor Heights and Alvin & The Angry Barrels. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7pm, £8 or £10 on the door, 01584 878141.
RICHARD DURRANT
‘The No. 26 Bus to Paraguay’. Exploring the mysteries of La Ruta Mangoreana, uncovering the beauty of Paraguayan music and sharing stories from South America. The Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 8pm, 01989 763174.
NICE ‘N’ SLEAZY
Golden Cross, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford.
SHOP FRONT HEROES
With support from 13 Rivers. The Speakeasy, Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, £10.
CELTIC SESSION
Monkland Arms, Monkland, near Leominster, 8pm.
THE JOURNEYMEN
Celebrating the music of Eric Clapton. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 7pm, 07498 966606.
THE INNOCENT CRIMINALS
Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, free entry, 01432 360250.
TAVERNER’S TEAPOT
An evening of improvised ambient, prog-rock, jazz-infused live music from a six-piece collective from the Midlands. The Hub at St Peter’s Church, Peterchurch, HR2 0RT, 7.30pm, donations on the door. Proceeds to Herefordshire Wildlife Rescue. www.hubcommunity.org
THE HISTORY OF ROCK
With the spotlight on Led Zeppelin, plus Cream, Guns ‘n’ Roses, AC/DC and more. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £25, 01873 850805.
Sat 5 October
FROM GOLD TO RIO
Celebrating the music of Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £24, 01873 850805.
THE STRIPLIGHTS
Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, free entry, 01432 360250.
MOUNTAIN SONG
Enjoy a glimspe into the past with Gospel, fiddle tunes and the high ‘n’ lonesome sound conjuring the spirit of the settlers and pioneers of the American mountains. Stoke St Milborough Village Hall, 7.30pm, £12/£6, 01584 823791. Arts Alive.
ANTHEMS OF ROCK
The Albert Hall, Llandrindod Wells, 7.30pm, £26/£24, 0300 102 4255, www.thealberthall.co.uk
OLD TIME SAILORS
A show that will shiver your timbers like no other. Foot-stomping and singing, dancing and debauchery like a drunken sailor! Blackberry Fair, Whitchurch, 7pm, £22.£20, www.artsalive.co.uk
Canadian artists, flautist Lara Deutsch and guitarist Adam Cicchillitti explore classical music through the lens of folk traditions from around the world. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 6.30pm, £14, 01584 878141. Arts Alive.
THE CLASSIC BLUES SHOW
St George’s Hall, Bewdley, £16 from the venue or www.theclassicbluesshow. co.uk
JENNY ‘THE VIXEN’ RYAN
‘Out of the Box’. From ‘The Chase’, breaks away from teatime telly and invites you to an evening of song, storytelling and some showbiz secrets. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, 01584 811442.
NUADHA
World jazz with an emphasis on memorable tunes, drawing influence from Brazilian, Moroccan and Gaelic cultures. Cedar Hall, Dilwyn, HR4 8JS, 8pm, £10, bar, 01544 319272, email cedarhalldilwyn@gmail.com
TWO POUNDS DOWN
West Malvern Social Club, 145 West Malvern Rd, Malvern, 8pm, wmsc.org.uk
THE STORY OF GUITAR HEROES
Prepare to be blown away by the most amazing guitar riffs of the last 50 years. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £29, 01743 281281.
CHELTENHAM BACH CHOIR
Reflective music for Autumn. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7pm, 01584 878141.
TANGO CALOR
Argentine tango music featuring Mirek Salmon, guitar virtuoso Daryl Kellie and vocalist Jimi Can. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.30pm, £15, students £10, 07967 517125.
FLO PERLIN IN CONCERT
Contemporary singer-songwriter. The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.30pm, £12.50, 01952 729911.
Over 30 stalls, hot food and live music with Norrie Davies playing her French Musette accordion 11am-1pm.
Aardvark Books, The Bookery, Manor Farm, Brampton Bryan, Bucknell, 9am-2pm, free entry and parking.
WANDERLUST
Canadian artists, flautist Lara Deutsch and guitarist Adam Cicchillitti explore classical music through the lens of folk traditions from around the world.
Quatt Village Hall, 2.30pm, £12/£6, 01746 781214. Arts Alive.
A DIFFERENT THREAD
Patchwork Tour Live in the
Speakeasy. More than just music, this tour embodies community spirit. Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, £10, 01432 357753.
THE BANDEROS
Richmond Club, Edgar St, Hereford, 3.15pm, 01432 356529.
Mon 7 October
BRIMFIELD FOLK CLUB
Brimfield Village Hall, 7.30pm, 07909 290942. Bring drink/glasses.
JAZZ CAFE AT BILL’S KITCHEN
Featuring The Ludlow Jazz Collective. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 6pm, £10 for music only, £25 for meal and music, 01584 878141.
THE BANDEROS
The Scruffy Dog Blues Club, Gloucester, 7.30pm, free.
CIDER CITY JAZZMEN
The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford.
Tues 8 October
BRECON JAZZ CLUB
Featuring Greg Sterland (tenor and Sabina Turvey (keys). The Muse, Brecon, 8pm, www.breconjazz.org
BEAUTIFUL WORLD CABARET
Join Janie Dee on a journey with song and spoken word. Welcoming a host of inspirational guests, this green twist on a classic cabaret asks how we can each make a difference for the planet. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 6.30pm, £20, 01584 878141.
Jenny Ryan
Wed 9 October
ESCAPE ROOM
You have one hour to crack the code and escape from the Old Chapel! Hereford Cathedral. Please book, www.herefordcathedral.org
Bal/concert. Irresistable dance music from Brittany. Cawley Hall, Eye, 7.30pm, £15, galettes and bar, 07579 965851.
ANYTHING FOR LOVE
Steve Steinman brings you his brandnew production featuring over 25 of Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman’s greatest hits. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £35.50, 01743 281281.
Thurs 10 October
ANYTHING FOR LOVE
Steve Steinman brings you his brandnew production featuring over 25 of Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman’s greatest hits. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £35.50, 01743 281281.
OPEN MIC
West Malvern Social Club, 145 West Malvern Rd, Malvern, 9pm, wmsc.org.uk
MUGENKYO TAIKO DRUMMERS
‘In Time’. A ride through their 30 years, the concert is a full theatrical experience with dynamic choreography and heart-pounding rhythms. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6.45pm, 07498 966606.
BOWJANGLES REVUE
A spectacular mix of upbeat classical music, comedy songs, well-known film, pop and rock tunes and foot-stomping Gypsy and Celtic bangers. Priest Weston Village Hall, 7.30pm, £12/£6,www.artsalive.co.uk
Fri 11 October
STICKY CARPET: IBIZA NIGHTS
Ibiza Club tunes with DJ lee Jennings. Oscars, Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7pm, £7, 01584 878141.
UNDAUNTED
Golden Cross, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford.
GLYDERAU
Original prog rock meets jazz under a Celtic moon. Ludlow Brewery, Station Drive, Ludlow, 8pm, £12, 01584 873291.
WHISKEY RIVER
Duo, Aidan and Martin. The Red Hart, Llanvapley, near Abergavenny, 8pm, free.
TASHA LEAPER
With her band. ‘Madonna + 80s v 90s Night’. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.
Hosted by Mark Richards. Hundred House Inn, Purslow, SY7 0HJ, 8pm, email markianrichards@hotmail.com
MONOLITH
Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, free entry, 01432 360250.
DYLAN FOWLER
The music ranges from Celtic music of his native Wales through his literal and metaphorical ‘travels’ in music that have taken him to the Balkan countries, India, South America and Europe. The Art Shop, Cross St, Abergavenny, 8pm, £16, 01873 852690.
THE RONALDOS
Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 07498 966606.
OKTOBERFEST
With The Bavarian Boyz Oompah Show. The Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 8pm, £15, 01989 763174 www.rosscornexchange.co.uk
WEIRDSHIRE
Featuring Swelt. The Victory, St Owen St, Hereford.
BRECON BAROQUE FESTIVAL
Concert ‘Welcome to all the Pleasures’. Brecon Cathedral, 7.30pm, £30-£10, www.breconbaroquefestival.com
PUPPINI SISTERS
Neo-burlesque/swing band perform all their hits, fan favourites and a few surprises. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £29.70, 01743 281281.
BOWJANGLES REVUE
Details 10 Oct. Goodrich Village Hall, 7.30pm, £12/£6, 01600 890715. Arts Alive.
TROVATORI
Acoustic opera duo, Darren and Caroline Clarke, modern day troubadours. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, 01885 488575.
THE BIG SLEEP OUT
A sponsored Big Sleep Out to raise awareness and help prevent homelessness in Herefordshire. Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, £10, 01432 357753.
Sat 12 October
LI’L JIMMY REED
From shot-gun shack to cotton-field to festival main stage. One of the last surviving performers of classic Louisiana down-home blues. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 6.30pm, £18, 01584 878141.
DIRTY/DC
AC/DC tribute show. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.
OCTOBER FEST
October fest themed food and drink plus music from The Noughts and Crosses and more. The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7pm, £12 in advance, £18 on the door, www.thefoundrybrecon.co.uk
Lunchtime Chamber Concert, Bach Suites. Plough Chapel, Brecon, 1pm, £25-£10. Talk on Elisabeth Jacquet de La Guerre by Cornelia Rahdes, The Tithe Barn, Brecon, 3pm, £10. Concert, ‘French Connections’. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, £30-£10. www.breconbaroquefestival.com
THE JOOKS
The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 7.45pm, 01952 610888.
GALA CHOIRS CONCERT
All the major choirs are taking part, The Roaring Megs, Ross Choral Society, Ross Choristers, The Border Belles, Ross Penyard Singers, Ross Folk Choir, Ross Church Choir. All performing separately, with combined performance at the end, commissioned by composer Eleanor Kercher. St Mary’s Church, Ross-on-Wye, 7.30pm, £10, from Ticket Source.
DR MEAKER
With support from Beatbox threepiece Air Dynamix plus after party with local DnB hero, Jesta. The Lost Arc, Rhayader, 8pm, £17.50, www.thelostarc.co.uk
SHREWSBURY JAZZ NETWORK
James Allsopp Quartet plays Stan Getz. Saxophone, guitar, double bass and drums. Lush ballads, bossa novas, swinging standards and bebop compositions. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, £23, under 22 £12, 01743 234970.
CONCERTS FOR CRASWALL
Featuring Ensemble Moliere, performoing ‘Telemann and his Friends in Paris’, with music by Blavet, Couperin, Forqueray, Guignon and Telemann. St Michael’s Church, Michaelchurch Escley, 5pm, 01981 510112.
DIRE STREETS
A two-hour theatre show featuring all the classic studio tracks. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, 01584 811442.
THE SKASTUDS + THE FABULOUS BORDELLOS
An evening of Mod/Ska. Ludlow Brewery, Station Drive, Ludlow, 7.30pm, £12, 01584 873291.
PIAF
The life story and songs of Edith Piaf featuring Sally Jones. The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.30pm, £15, 01952 728911.
MUSIC IN NEW RADNOR
Featuring The Peregrine Trio with Ruth Watson. Paula Kempton, violin; John Hymas, viola; Sonia Hammond, cello; Ruth Watson, oboe. Programme includes Mozart, Moeran, Rheingold Gliere, Puccini, Kurt Weill and Igor Stravinsky. New Radnor Community Hall, 7.30pm, £15, under 14s £3, 01544 350746.
RONA MAC
Album release tour. Melville Theatre, Abergavenny, 7pm, £10, 01873 853167.
A BEAUTIFUL NOISE
The Definitive tribute to Neil Diamond. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
CALL OF THE KRAKEN
Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, free entry, 01432 360250.
ANGELINE MORRISON
Singer, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter who explores traditional song with deep love, respect and curiosity. Her work is infused with elements of soul, music, literature, ‘60s beat pop sounds, folklore and myth. She will be performing with Clarke Camilleri and Emily Jones. Gregynog Hall, Tregynon, near Newtown, 7.30pm, £15, 01686 650224, www.wegottickets.com.
ALEX VOYSEY BLUES TRIO
West Malvern Social Club, 145 West Malvern Rd, Malvern, 8pm, wmsc.org.uk
AFTERNOON MUSIC
‘Beyond the Final Frontier’. Will boldly go where few have gone before in a slightly extended lenght sci-fi special. Hereford Cathedral, 3.15pm, free and booking is not required, www.herefordcathedral.org
BRIMSTONE
A four piece folk band comprising of fiddle, whistle, guitar and bodhran. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.
ENSEMBLE CYMRU
Free concert. Gregynog Hall, Tregynon, near Newtown,11am, 01686 650224.
Oasis tribute night. Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, £15, 01432 357753.
Sun 13 October
BRECON BAROQUE FESTIVAL
‘For the Love of the Viol’, a talk by Dr Lucy Robinson. The Tithe Barn, Brecon, 10.30am, £10. Organ recital by Andrew Wilson-Dickson. Brecon Cathedral, 1pm, £15. Festival Evensong, Brecon Cathedral, 3.30pm, free. History of Bows and Bowmaking, a talk by Tim Richards, 4.15pm, The Tithe Barn, Brecon, £10. Concert, ‘Pardessus in Paradise - The Woman’s Violin’. The Plough Chapel, Brecon, 6pm, £28-£10. www.breconbaroquefestival.com
NOT JUST A DUCKING STOOL?
Treasures of the Norman Nave. Find out about the history and meaning of the Priory’s famous treasures including the Ducking Stool and Wheel of Life. Activities and displays, organ demonstrations. The Ducking Stool in context; Evolution of the Norman Nave; Edfrith and the Lions; 2pm talk: The Norman Nave Through Time’. Leominster Priory, 1pm-5pm, free entry and all welcome.
Angeline Morrison
Sun 13 October
SONS OF THE DELTA Blend of electric and acoustic blues. Prince of Wales, Ledbury, 01531 632250.
JAMES OLIVER BAND
The Richmond Club, Edgar St, Hereford, 3.15pm, 01432 356529.
A mainstay on the folk scene for over a decade. The Hive, Shrewsbury, 7.45pm, £15, 01743 234970.
Mon 14 October
BRECON BAROQUE FESTIVAL
Y Gaer Museum Tour and Talk with Jacquie Morgan. Brecon Museum, 10.30am, £10. Lunchtime Chamber Concert - ‘Buffardin in Germany’. Plough Chapel, Brecon, 12pm, £25-£10. Concert - ‘Pot-Pourri’, with music by Muffat, Corelli, Lully, Handel, Vivaldi and Purcell. Joined by South Powys Youth Music. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 6pm, £28-£10. www.breconbaroquefestival.com
QUEENZ: DRAG ME TO THE DISCO!
Live vocal, drag-stravaganza, where Dancing Queenz and Disco Dreams collide for the party of a lifetime. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
Tues 15 October
QUEENZ: DRAG ME TO THE DISCO!
Live vocal, drag-stravaganza, where Dancing Queenz and Disco Dreams collide for the party of a lifetime. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
VONDA SHEPARD
Playing a set of greatest hits and favourites from her many albums. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £32, 01743 281281.
Wed 16 October
JOHN BARROWMAN
Laid Bare is his new show, unwavering and uncensored about his passion for life and his love of song and story. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £42-£32, 01743 281281.
West Malvern Social Club, 145 West Malvern Rd, Malvern, 9pm, wmsc.org.uk
STREISAND: WOMAN IN LOVE
Celebrate the musical genius and unrivalled vocal talent of one of the world’s most iconic artistes. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £35-£20, 01743 281281.
Fri 18 October
FOLK IN THE FOYER
Featuring The Cherrystones. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, 01885 488575.
Folk, blues and Americana singersongwriter. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 6.30pm, £15, 01584 878141.
SHADOWS OF TINTERN
A spectacular site-specific sound, projection and fire installation, inspired by time and place, to dazzle the eyes and startle our imaginations. For all ages, a rare chance to walk through the Abbey grounds after dark. Lead artists Mark Anderson - visual sound artist and pyrotechnician, in collaboration with Liam Walsh & Ulf Peterson, alchemists of sound, light and space to create this unique event. Tintern Abbey grounds, 6pm-10.30pm, last entry 9pm, £10.50 adults, NUS and children aged 5-17 £7, family ticket £33, under 5s free.
Part of Wye Valley River Festival, www.wyevalleyriverfest.com
OPEN MIC
Hosted by Mark Richards. The Rose & Crown, Ludlow, SY8 1AP, 8pm, email markianrichards@hotmail.com
FLEETING RUMOURS
Plus special guests, A Foreigners Journey. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.
SHREWSBURY DJANGO FEST
Featuring The Caley Groves Trio with Alex Clarke at 8pm. The Robin Nolan Trio 9.15pm. The Hottest Swing DJ Set 10.30pm. St Mary’s Church, Dogpole, Shrewsbury, SY1 1DX, full weekend £74, www.shrewsburydjangofest.co.uk
OKTOBERFEST
Live music, beers and food. Ludlow Brewery, Station Drive, Ludlow, 11am-6pm, 01584 873291.
THE ALLEY CATS
Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, free entry, 01432 360250.
Amit Dattani
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. Open Bank Holiday Mondays.
Aardvark October Car Boot/Brocante
Sunday 6th October 9am-2pm
Over 30 Stalls; Live music with Norrie Davies playing her French Musette Accordion from 11am-1pm.
Aardvark Christmas Fair
Sunday 1 December 10am-3pm
Over 20 Stalls, Live music, Free Mulled Wine, Free Entry.
Fri 18 October
FAIRPORT CONVENTION
Featuring Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Dave Pegg on bass guitar and vocals, Rick Sanders on violin and Chris Leslie on bouzouki, mandolin, banjo, fiddle and vocals. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, 01584 811442.
ALED JONES: FULL CIRCLE
Featuring never-before-heard music, tales from the decades and for the first time, his story told in his own words. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
LEO SAYER
British music legend Leo Sayer brings boundless energy and a hit packed show for his new tour. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £42-£37, 01743 281281.
Sat 19 October
HAY SHANTYMEN
Charity concert supporting Hay & District Dial a Ride. Hay Castle, 7pm, £12, 01497 820079, www.haycastletrust.org
SUTHERING
The Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 7.45pm, £15, students £10, 01989 763174 www.rosscornexchange.co.uk XL5
The Vaga, Hereford, 8.30pm. SHREWSBURY CHORAL
Performing Mozart, Galuppi and Jummel. St Alkmund’s Church, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, 01743 232236, www.shrewsburychoral.org.uk
SONS OF YODA Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk
RULE THE WORLD
Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 5pm, 07498 966606.
DJ POLO JUNGLE SET
The Oxford Arms, Kington, 7pm, 07301 081444.
THE FORFEITS
Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, free entry, 01432 360250.
SHREWSBURY DJANGO FEST
Featuring Amuse Manouche at 7.30pm. Stochelo Rosenberg, Paulus Schafer, Tcha Limberger Sextet at 8.45pm. Late Night Swing Party at 10.30pm. St Mary’s Church, Dogpole, Shrewsbury, SY1 1DX, full weekend £74, www.shrewsburydjangofest.co.uk
THE JAM’D
The UK’s most authentic and leading tribute band. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 8pm, £25, 01743 281281.
PAUL WALKER & KAREN PFEIFFER
Diddlebury Village Hall, 01584 841331.
THE CLASSIC BLUES SHOW
Ludlow Brewery, Station Drive, Ludlow, £13.50, part of Oktoberfest. Beers, food and live music, 10am-5pm, 01584 873291.
RICK BUCKLER
A night of memories and music. Featuring the legendary drummer of The Jam. Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells, 8pm, 01597 258118, wwwpavilionmidwales.org.uk
SHADOWS OF TINTERN
A spectacular site-specific sound, projection and fire installation, inspired by time and place, to dazzle the eyes and startle our imaginations. For all ages, a rare chance to walk through the Abbey grounds after dark. Lead artists Mark Anderson - visual sound artist and pyrotechnician, in collaboration with Liam Walsh & Ulf Peterson, alchemists of sound, light and space to create this unique event. Tintern Abbey grounds, 6pm-10.30pm, last entry 9pm, £10.50 adults, NUS and children aged 5-17 £7, family ticket £33, under 5s free. Part of Wye Valley River Festival, www.wyevalleyriverfest.com
FOLK FROM THE FOLD
A celebration of autumn and harvest, in poetry, song and music. Local performers welcome in the first half, phone to book your slot. Bosbury Parish Hall, 7.30pm, £10 on the door, 01531 670634.
JOIN THE DOTS
Ceilidh. Come to an evening of lively music and easy-to-follow dances. No need to bring a partner. Almeley Village Hall, 7.30pm, tickets £8 on the door. Bar. 07731 194797.
THE TAKE THAT EXPERIENCE
Celebrating over 30 years as the UK’s number one boy band. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
STEELEYE SPAN
The Green Man Tour. Changing the face of folk music for over 55 years together. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £27.50, 01600 772467.
MILLION DOLLAR MEN
A tribute to Magic Mike. Great dancing, great interaction and all the action of the smash hit film, Magic Mike! Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, £25, 01432 357753.
Sun 20 October
CARDIFF WINDS WITH NAOMI HARVEY (SOPRANO)
Works by Farkas, Butterworth, Derek Smith, Nielsen and the premiere of a chamber version of Richard Strauss’ glorious Four Last Songs. Lion Ballroom, Leominster, 3pm, £20 (st £10) from Leominster TIC, 01568 616460, Hereford Courtyard 01432 340555 or online at www.courtyard.org.uk
Featuring Retreat Attendee Concert at 5.30pm. Amuse Manouche/All Star Jam at 6.30pm. St Mary’s Church, Dogpole, Shrewsbury, SY1 1DX, full weekend £74, www.shrewsburydjangofest.co.uk
TONI LEE
Plus band, ‘The Carpenters Songbook’. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 5.30pm, 07498 966606.
OKTOBERFEST
Live music, beers and food. Ludlow Brewery, Station Drive, Ludlow, 12pm-8pm, (includes open mic session), 01584 873291.
TUNE & STEP SESSION
Monkland Arms, Monkland, near Leominster, 7.30pm.
WALK RIGHT BACK
Pure rock and roll nostalgia, as this show recounts the tale of those two Kentucky boys who created unparalleled vocal magic. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £28, 01743 281281.
Wed 23 October
STEELEYE SPAN
Their new album, The Green Man Collection brings together tracks from recent releases as well as old fan favourites. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £35.75-£32.45, 01743 281281.
AMERICAN COUNTRY GREATS
The show features three singers, all accompanied by a live band of musicians. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £25, 01600 772467.
Experience a captivating journey through music history from the 50s to the 80s, with electrifying performances and iconic tunes. The Hafren, Newtown, 7.30pm, £29.50, 01686 948100.
WEDNESDAY CONCERT SERIES
Featuring Ensemble Arcadiana. Programme includes Beethoven, Eleanor Alberga and Mendelssohn. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 6.30pm, £20, under 18s £5, 01584 878141.
Thurs 24 October
CLUN ACOUSTIC FOLK SESSION
The Sun Inn, Clun, 8pm.
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
Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, free entry, 01432 360250.
BUTTY’S BOOTY SHAKE
Featuring the amazing Baraka for a late night party! The Muse, Glamorgan St, Brecon, 8pm, 07791 654799.
ESSENTIALLY CHER
Starring Trisha McCluney and her band. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.
BORDERLINES JACKEN ELSWYTH, HARESS AND ALULA DOWN
Fabulous folk from Mid Wales borders and beyond. Gregynog Hall, Tregynon, near Newtown, 01686 650224.
LOCKED AND LOADED
Golden Cross, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford.
GUY DAVIS
Guy Davis is a two-time, back-to-back Grammy nominee for Best Traditional Blues, a musician, actor, author, and songwriter. Guy uses a blend of Roots, Blues, Folk, Rock, Rap, Spoken Word, and World Music to comment on, and address the frustrations of social injustice, touching on historical events, and common life struggles. The Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, 7.30pm, £15, under 25s £10 (limited tickets). Tickets from The Workhouse, Presteigne or www.midborderarts.com
ETERNITY ROAD
Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 07498 966606.
THE BOHEMIANS
A Night of Queen. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £23, 01600 772467.
THE SOUND OF SHREWSBURY FOLK
Featuring Britain’s top shanty bands: Kimbers Men. Plus Diane Drummond with Drummond Bass, Ron Kill and Steve Collins, Vincent Whyte, Sam Bishop, The Devil’s In The Whiskey, Raffle, Surprise and more. In aid of Unicef Ukraine and Unicef Gaza. The Hive, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £25, 01743 234970.
AN EVENING OF JAMES TAYLOR
The Melville Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £18, 01873 853167.
AUCTION OF PROMISES
Over 50 Lots on offer, auctioned by professional auctioneer, Michael Evans. Free catalogue from the box office. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 3pm, fundraiser for LAR, 01584 878141.
THE DIME NOTES
Blues drenched clarinet-driven 1920s jazz with London’s hard-swinging vintage jazz band. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £18, 01873 850805.
Sat 26 October
MELODIES ACROSS THE BORDERS
Fron Male Voice Choir take to the stage with their powerful voices and impeccable control. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £22, 01743 281281.
HALLOWEEN DISCO
For children. Prize for the best dressed. The Vaga, Hereford, 2-4pm.
Hopelands Village Hall, Weobley, 7.30pm, £8, bar and crisps on tables, 07741 343901.
BLACK HEART ANGELS
Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, free entry, 01432 360250.
THE PERCY VEER BAND
The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 7.45pm, 01952 610888.
CORN EXCHANGE BEER FESTIVAL
8 Local real ales, Viking Fries street vendor, live music with McDermott & North Indie Band. The Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, from 4pm, £10 to include one free pint of real ale, 01989 763174 www.rosscornexchange.co.uk
THE BANDEROS
The Nottingham Arms, Tewkesbury, 7.30pm, free.
BRECON TOWN CONCERT BAND
‘The Last Night of the Proms - James Bond Spectacular!’ Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622.
HAY MUSIC
Featuring Jayson Gillham, piano. Programme of music by Beethoven, Ligeti, Chopin and Faure. St Mary’s Church, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, www.haymusic.org
MINISTRY OF ROCK
A groundbreaking four-part vocal group known for their powerhouse vocals and electrifying performances. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7pm, 01584 811442.
JULIE JULY BAND
Flight of Fancy Album Tour. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, 01584 878141.
SHADOWING HANK
Renowned guitarist Justin Daish presents his acclaimed Hank Marvin extravaganza. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.30pm, £16, students £9, 07967 517125.
Sun 27 October
AN EVENING WITHOUT KATE BUSH
Sarah-Lousie Young pays homage to the music, fans and mythology of one of the most influential voices in British Music. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £22, 01743 281281.
MIKE KELLY
A Country & Western themed night. Free live music, street food, supper club event. Oak Inn, Staplow, 6.30pm, 01531 640954.
THE SOUTHERN COMPANION
Celebrating the music of Chris Stapleton. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 5pm, 07498 966606.
Songs from the new album, accompanying himself on guitar, piano, cello and harmonica. The Lost Arc, Rhayader, 7pm, £10 in advance, £14 on the door, www.thelostarc.co.uk
JACK J HUTCHINSON BAND
London based blues rock guitarist. The Muse, Glamorgan St, Brecon, 7pm, £15, www.midwalesrandb.club
TALON - THE BEST OF THE EAGLES Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £32, 01743 281281.
Mon 28 October
LEGENDS OF AMERICAN COUNTRY
Featuring three superb singers, Kelan Browne, Tracey McAuley and Antony McBrien and a live band. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622.
Wed 30 October
ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN
Family concert. ‘Carnival of the Animals’. The Courtyard, Hereford, 2pm, 01432 340555.
BISHOP’S CASTLE OPEN MIC
Free drink for all performers. Three Tuns, Bishop’s Castle, 8.30pm, 01588 638797.
HEREFORDSHIRE’S FAMILY FESTIVAL FUN DAY
‘Circus Spectacular!’ Storytelling, dancing, dress-up, music and more for families. Free and low-cost activities, workshops and performances. Fancy dress is encouraged! The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.
Cara performs her new album, interweaving this emotive new material with carefully curated selection of her beloved classics. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £29.70, 01743 281281.
Thurs 31 October
UK PINK FLOYD EXPERIENCE
Celebrating 30 years since the iconic ‘Pulse’ tour, this authentic show recreates the atmosphere of Floyd live. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
Cardiff Winds and distinguished soprano Naomi Harvey
Sunday 20 October 2024 at 3pm Lion Ballroom, off Broad St, Leominster
Works by Farkas, Butterworth, Derek Smith, Nielsen and the première of a chamber version of Richard Strauss’ glorious Four Last Songs
Tickets £20 (students half-price) from Leominster TIC 01568 616460
The Courtyard, Hereford 01432 340555 online at www.courtyard.org.uk
OPEN MIC
West Malvern Social Club, 145 West Malvern Rd, Malvern, 9pm, wmsc.org.uk
Folk. The Muse, Glamorgan St, Brecon, 7.30pm, 07791 654799.
ALL NEW STICKY WICKET’S RHYTHM BAND
A brand new line up featuring three-piece horns and rhythm section playing soul, funk, ska, Latin, swing and more. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 8pm, £15, students £5, 01588 638038.
Brimfield Village Hall, 7.30pm, 07909 290942. Bring drink/ glasses.
CIDER CITY JAZZMEN
The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford.
Music Workshops
Sat 5 October BMEMF
A workshop for instrumentalists (A=440) with tutor Alison Kinder. A day looking at renaissance Canzonas. Suitable for bowed strings, recorders and double reeds. Yarpole Parish Hall, Green Lane, Yarpole, HR6 0BL, 9.30am-4.30pm, www.bmemf.org.uk
Sun 6 October UKRAINIAN POLYPHONIC SINGING WORKSHOP
Join us at the Bishops Palace, Hereford for a unique experience of traditional Ukrainian vocal harmonies. Learn the art of singing in multiple parts with instructor Galyna Grigoriadi guiding you every step of the way. Enjoy Ukrainian traditional lunch. Galyna on +44 7464 624194 or Nataliya on 07963 090838 www.experienceukraine.co.uk or www.eventbrite.com/e/ukrainian
Tues 8 October YOUTH MUSIC PRACTICE SPACE
Practice your instrument or singing. Try starting a band or have a band practice. Drum kit, PA, amps available at request. The Cadet Hall, Station St, Bishop’s Castle, 4-6pm, £2.50 per 30 minute session, email Liz@sparctheatre.co.uk to book
Sat 19 October A SINGING DAY WITH BOB CHILCOTT
Includes Bob’s own uplifting Requiem and music by Cecilia McDowall. With pianist Jonathan Lyness. In order to enjoy the workshop fully, a reasonable level of sight reading is required. Booking in advance is essential. St Andrew’s Church, Presteigne, 10.30am-4pm, registration from 10am, tea, coffee, biscuits provided, £20 in advance to include score hire. 01544 267800 or www.presteignefestival.com
Sat 19 October FIDDLES IN HARMONY
With Kitty Greenwood. Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, 10.15am, £18, folkfiddleteacher@gmail.com
Sun 27 October SHROPSHIRE HARMONY QUIRE
A monthly session for singers and instrumentalists. Led by Andy Watts. Visitors and new members (first session free). Music and recordings available in advance on-line. Lydbury North Village Hall, SY7 8AU, 2pm-5pm. wwwshropshireharmonyquire.org.uk
October & November TREVOR HEAD COURSES
7 - 11 Oct - Brass Repair Foundation, £1180. 19 - 21 Oct - Brass Repair ‘Skills continuation’ course, £745. Taught by Trevor Head. 20 - 23 Oct - Woodwind course - work on oboes and bassoons, pad seating, cork pads, regulation etc! 24 - 26 Oct - Special course for woodwind instrumental music teachers, diagnose problems and make emergency repairs. Both courses taught by Lynne Williams. 28 Oct - 2 Nov - Woodwind Repair Foundation Course with Keith Magnall, £1380. All courses at Llangunllo School, www.trevorhead.co.uk
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, email Mary Keith maryskeith@aol.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 LIVE WIRE MUSIC MONDAYS
An opportunity to play songs with other musicians who are just starting out. Rehearse covers. Ages 11-21. Close House, Hereford, 4-6pm. lisa@encore-enterprises.com
Monday BRECON TOWN BAND REHEARSALS
Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7pm, 07779 390954.
Monday SINGING TOTS Under 1’s, 1pm-1.30pm, parent social 1.30-2pm. Over 1’s 2-2.30pm, £5 per session. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.
Monday YOUTH CHOIR The Courtyard, Hereford, 6.30pm-7.25pm, £26 per month, 01432 340555.
Monday BANDAMANIA Bright and breezy traditional and original music.Assembly Rooms, Presteigne. Mondays at 7.30pm, Sue Harris 01547 550158.
Monday CORVEDALE CHOIR Community choir led by Ros Crouch. Diddlebury Village Hall 7.30-9.30pm. 01584 547385 or ros.crouch@ gmail.com
Monday ADULT CHOIR WITH LG DANCE The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm-8.25pm, £26 per month, 01432 340555. Monday GARRICK SINGERS For over 55s, no prior experience of singing. The Courtyard, Hereford, 2-3.30pm, £7 per session, lisa@encore-enterprises.com.
Monday REGAL COMMUNITY CHOIR All abilities and adults of all ages welcome. Singing popular and traditional songs, led by Pete Thorogood. Regal, Tenbury Wells, 6-7pm, £5 per session, wwwregaltenbury.co.uk
Tuesday BLUE HILLS CHOIR Small daytime choir singing classical music led by Ros Crouch. Diddlebury Village Hall 10-12noon. 01584 547385 or ros.crouch@ gmail.com
Tuesdays SAMBA BRECON Sue on 07792 165481 or Gill on 01497 821631. 7-9pm, VH, near Brecon. Tuesdays LEOMINSTER COMMUNITY CHOIR Liv is leading us in learning uplifting songs. World music, jazz, folk, all in the mix. Come and have an inspiring sing, 7pm-8.30pm at Leominster Community Centre. ffi 01568 369074 or email: lccatlcc@myphone.coop
Tuesday WHITTON VOICES Mixed community choir. Traditional, world and original songs. Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, 7.30pm. Call Sue Harris 01547 550158.
Tuesdays term time only LIVEWIRE SESSIONS
Hereford Town Hall, 5-7pm. 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
The Courtyard, Hereford, 10am-11am, free, booking required, jlowry@encore-enterprises.com
Wednesdays PLAY IT BY EAR
The Pilgrim Centre, Craven Arms, SY7 9NY, 7.30 - 9.30pm. Our sociable group of folk musicians meet fortnightly to learn tunes by ear and then enjoy playing them together! Starting 11th September, £12 per session /£75 per term. Details Kitty Greenwood: folkfiddleteacher@gmail.com 01584 841564
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
Wednesday ROCKSPRING COMMUNITY CHOIR
Rockspring Community Centre, Ludlow. 01584 529053. Wednesdays CASTLE VOICES Community choir, songs from around the globe. Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 7pm. Sue Harris 01547 550158.
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. Online and face to face weekly sessions. 11am, email lisa@encore-enterprises.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 (Term time) MUSIC TOTS LUDLOW Music activities for children aged 0-4 years. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 9.30am-10.15am for 0-2 year olds. 10.45am-11.30am for 2-4 year olds, £5 per session. Contact Gersom 07531 120951.
Every Thursday (Term time) DAWN CHORUS Sing along at any ability. Just singing for fun and wellbeing. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 8.15am-9am, £6 per session, no need to book. Contact Gersom 075311 20951.
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
Every Thursday KINGTON COMMUNITY CHOIR We are non auditioning and rehearse at 7pm-8.30pm at Burton Hotel. Our repertoire includes folk, traditional, pop classics, easy listening and songs from the musicals (usually in 3 or 4 parts). Just come along or email Secretary Teresa at kccherefordshire@gmail.com or visit website www.kcchoir. wordpress.co
Thursday CANTORION LLANDRINDOD A non auditioned mixed voice choir early and classical music. Rehearsals currently in Holy Trinity Church, Llandrindod Wells. 7.30pm-9.15pm. www.cantorion-llandrindod.org 01597 810601.
Thursday EDGE CHAMBER CHOIR Auditioned chamber choir led by Ros Crouch, Ludlow Methodist Church, 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Contact Ros Crouch ros.crouch@gmail.com
Thursday PRESTEIGNE POP CHOIR Contact John Hymas for details: 07969 440183, john@johnhymas.com
First Thursdays BLACK HILL TUNE CLUB 12.30-3.30pm at the Dog Inn, Ewyas Harold. New members welcome, 07891 640005.
Every Friday WELLSPRINGS Song-writing course, open to anyone over 18 who would like to improve their mental wellbeing. For info 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 SINGING FOR HEALTH AND HAPPINESS
The Courtyard, Hereford, 2-3pm, £5 per session, pay on door (cash), 01432 340555.
Friday BUZZY BEATS! A fun 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.10am - 11.15am. 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 For parents and toddlers 12.30-2pm, £4 per adult and child pair, under 1s free. Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.
Fridays every two weeks
YOUTH SAMBA SESSIONS
With Peter Piper. Drumming is a fun physical and creative outlet. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 4.30pm-5.30pm, £5 per session or 5 sessions for £20, 01588 638038.
Sessions back next month
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.
ALMSHOUSE ALL-STARS. Bring alive the swing era of the jazz age with classic songs and hot tunes featuring male & female vocals, sax, clarinet, flute, guitar, double bass, banjo, harmonica & ukulele. Band member credits include TV & radio, BBC & international music festivals, residencies at major tourist attractions and cruise operator contracts. Email: contact@wysonlanemusic.com. Phone: 07836 773303. Visit the website: www.wysonlanemusic.com/almshouseallstars Check us out on YouTube: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=eHhA49c9d60 Find us on Facebook: #almshouseallstars.
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
THE BANDEROS are a dynamic Blues band that effortlessly channels the raw essence and soul of the genre into their performance. Comprising seasoned musicians with a passion for Blues, Country Blues and Hokum, The Banderos deliver a live experience that is given that special sparkle treatment. Call them up. Phone 07710 493468. E-mail: info@newtraditionmusic.co.uk
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
GREY WOLF is a 4-piece, well established, popular Americana/ Old-time folk band from the Welsh Marches. We play banjo, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, dulcimer and double bass alongside fine vocal harmony singing. The band has headlined several of the UK’s Old Time Music and Dance Festivals, performed on radio, at folk clubs, festivals, private parties and has featured at music and literary venues throughout the UK. Traditional, thoughtful and very entertaining, we are renowned for the rapport that we establish with our audiences. WEB : greywolffolk. com Contact : Jim 01584 810000. Email banjojim.allen@gmail.com
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
MIDNIGHT MAYHEM A covers band ready to kickstart any event. Performing female influenced rock and pop. So if you have a birthday, wedding or event get in touch to see how we can meet your requirements. Call or text Rob 07807 531251 or Liz 07807 531151. Email midnight4mayhem@gmail.com Or find us on Facebook or instagram.
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, 07835 928069, or Rich on 07594 636828. Email: tim@melomanics.co.uk Website: www.melomanics.co.uk
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.
PRESS GANGERS A shanty band from Presteigne - this nine man crew of singers and musicians perform a mix of sea shanties and some Irish songs with rousing harmonies encouraging audience participation. Enquiries/bookings - text/call 07980 785105.
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. Contact: John; 07751 829109. Web: www.ragtimejug.co.uk Email: info@ragtimejug.co.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ ragtimejugorchestra
ONLY £45 FOR THE WHOLE YEAR
Just post the details of your band (around 40 words) with a cheque for £45 payable to Broad Sheep The Fred Bulmer Centre, Wall St, Hereford, HR4 9HP just call Clare on 07786 131159 or email: info@broadsheep.com
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
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.
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
STRAY AWAY Stomping good ceilidhs for all occasions. S Powys area. Tel 01874 676155 or 623781, or email afarley463@gmail.com
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!
TOMMY MILLS & PEDRO BROWN DUO Acoustic guitar and vocals, percussion, double bass and sax. Songs from Paul Simon, James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Sting, David Bowie and much more. We can also play a set of our own songs for those occasions. 07811 2755856.
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
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
BOROUGH THEATRE, Abergavenny 01873 850805
CARAD, East St, Rhayader, 01597 810192
CENTRE CELF, Tremont Rd, Llandrindod Wells 01597 822777
CHARLTON ARMS, Ludlow, 01584 872813
THE CLIFFE AT DINHAM, 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.
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
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
Until Wed 2 October WONDER BOY
Olivier Award-winnner Sally Cookson directs the critically acclaimed BRISTOL OLD VIC production. A heartwarming story about the power of communication. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £32-£18, 01743 281281.
Thurs 3 October
HANCOCK’S HALF HOUR - THE LOST TV EPISODES
HAMBLEDON PRODUCTIONS recreate three of the lost episodes from the original television series. Suitable for ages 8+. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 6.30pm, £18, 01584 878141.
Thurs 3 - Sat 5 October DEVILLED EGGS
BLACK LIVER THEATRE COMPANY. Dakota Guest House hosts Roman and Prudence, flip through their guest book and regale you with stories from their heyday as the B&B to the stars! Every room has a tale to tell in songs, sketches and verse. 3 Oct - Blackberry Fair, Talbot Theatre, Whitchurch, 7.30pm, £12/£6, www.artsalive.co.uk 4 Oct - Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.30pm, £15, students £9, 07967 517125. 5 Oct - Habberley Village Hall, 7.30pm, £12/£6, 01743 790179. Arts Alive.
Fri 4 & Sat 5 October
DIARY OF A BADMINTON PLAYER WORCESTER THEATRES CHARITABLE TRUST. Colin Cosgrove is a busy man. He’s running badminton training sessions, his supply teaching job is going ‘great guns’ and his food delivery work keeps him busy on a Saturday night. Then it all starts to go a little bit wrong...
4 Oct - The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.30pm, £14, 01952 728911. 5 Oct - The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.
Tues 8 October METTLE
A new play to commemorate those who served on the Atlantic convoys. Written and performed by Nicholas Collett. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, pay what you decide, 01432 340555.
Sat 12 October
THE LION AND THE UNICORN
THE CRIME AND COMEDY THEATRE COMPANY. In October 1939, Winston Churchill and Neville Chamberlain, opponents for years, meet together with their wives for a private dinner... Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £21, 01600 772467.
Sun 13 October
TWELFTH NIGHT
WILLOW GLOBE THEATRE COMPANY. Knighton Community Centre, 5pm, £12, under 16s £6, family £30. Part of Knighton Festival, www.knightonfestival.wales
Mon 14, Tues 29 October & Fri 1 November
THE THREE MUSKETEERS
BLACK RAT PRODUCTIONS & BLACKWOOD MINERS’ INSTITUTE. A brand-new comedy, written and directed by Richard Tunley. Expect quick wit and boundless energy and non-stop laughs. 14 Oct - For ages 11+. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £15/£13, 01873 850805. 29 Oct - Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622. 1 Nov - The Hafren, Newtown, 7.30pm, £14/£12, 01686 948100.
Tues 15 & Wed 16 October
FEEL ME
THE PAPER BIRDS. A new interactive and stunning mixture of live performance, film, projection, dance and music, Feel Me explores the different lenses through which we are told, and connect to stories in the modern digital world. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, Tues 5pm, Wed 11am, 01600 719401.
Wed 16 - Sat 19 October
SPACE - A SPECTACULAR SOUND AND LIGHT SHOW By Luxmuralis. Walk amongst the stars and planets. Discover the creation story and the Big Bang within this sacred space and view the final image of Earth as if looking back from space under a galaxy of stars. Hereford Cathedral, 6.20pm-9pm, £9, children 3-16 £6, under 3s free. Tickets from The Courtyard, 01432 340555.
Thurs 17 - Sat 19 October
NEVILLE’S ISLAND
LADS. Four out of condition, middle-aged businessmen set off on a team building exercise and only succeed in becoming the first people to become shipwrecked on an island in Derwentwater in the Lake District. Market Theatre, Ledbury, £12, students £8, 07967 517125.
Fri 18 October
WINDRUSH SECRET
A racist party leader, a Black Caribbean diplomat and a white government official all give speeches on the same day in separate locations about The Windrush Generation. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £17, 01743 281281.
Sat 19 October
THE DREAMER LIVE
An all new magic show. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 7.30pm, 01982 552555.
Sat 19 October
PUM DIWRNOD O RYDDID (FIVE DAYS OF FREEDOM)
THEATR MALDWYN. The show is based on the history of the Chartists Outbreak in Llanidloes in 1839 and their aims of gaining the right to vote for all men. The Hafren, Newtown, 7.30pm, £19, under 18s £15, 01686 948100.
Sun 20 October
A WARNING TO THE CURIOUS NUNKIE THEATRE COMPANY bring MR James’ ghost stories back to life in this gripping, candlelit one-man performance. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £18, 01743 281281.
Tues 22 October UNDERMINED
Inspired by the accounts of miners who lived through the 1984 Miners’ Strike. Fuelled by energetic and engaging storytelling, this one-man show will have you laughing, crying and shaking with anger. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £15/£13, 01873 850805.
Tues 22 - Fri 25 October THE GHOST TRAIN
REGAL COMMUNITY THEATRE present Arnold Ridley’s classic comedy thriller. Six passengers find themselves stranded late at night in the waiting-room of an isolated Cornish railway station. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.15pm, 01584 811442.
Thurs 24 October CHRIS DREW
An evening of mediumship. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, 01885 488575.
Thurs 24 - Sat 26 October BONNIE AND CLYDE
Uncover the real-life story of renowned lovers Bonnie and Clyde as their desire for fame leads them to become America’s most wanted criminals. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £19, 01743 281281.
Sat 26 October
SOLDIER OF ILLUSION!
‘Britain’s Got Talent’ winner Richard Jones, The Military Illusionist. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 01600 719401.
Tues 29 October - Sat 2 November
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE (SORT OF)
A unique retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic love story featuring a string of pop classics. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £44.50-£10, 01743 281281.
Tues 29 October - Sat 2 November
LOCKED & ACCUSED
2FACED DANCE. A thrilling new immersive experience. Convicted of a crime, can you and your inmates find the real killer and escape the cells? An interactive fright night, as prisoners, you’ll be blindfolded, handcuffed and thrust into a world where every detail counts. For ages 16+, 4-8 players, 5pm, tickets from £18.99, The Centre for Movement, The Old Court, Gaol St, Hereford, www.2faceddance.co.uk
Pride and Prejudice (Sort Of)
Thurs 31 October
SUPERNATURAL SHROPSHIRE
SHROPSHIRE DRAMA COMPANY. The stranger enters a village pub and strikes up a conversation with the woman... The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.30pm, £10, 01952 728911.
Thurs 31 October
GHOST TREES
Poet Sara-Jane Arbury, artist Richard Gilbert and photographer Paul Ligas take you on a virtual tour of their National Trust commissioned Ghost Tree Trail at Croft Castle, celebrating the estate’s ancient dead trees. Uncanny artwork, spirited poetry and other tricksy treats add to the eerie atmosphere. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.30pm, £12, students £8, 07967 517125.
Sat 2 November
THE GREAT BALDINI MAGIC CABARET
A magical legend, a relic of the music halls and a theatrical performer of the old school. The show explores Baldini’s life through a series of magical illusions.
Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, 01584 878141.
Sat 2 November
THE GHOST OF A SMILE
Two of Charles Dickens’ creepy tales - with a comic twist. Tales with a tingle, but also a giggle! The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.
Sun 3 November
THE HAUNTING OF BLAINE MANOR
England, 1953. Renowned American parapsychologist Dr Roy Earle, famous for discrediting hauntings is invited to attend a seance in Blaine Manor, said to be the most haunted building in England... Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £18/£15, children under 16 £10, 01600 772467.
Kington Operatic Society
Gilbert & Sullivan’s
THE MIKADO
Lady Hawkins’ Community Centre, Kington Thursday 31st Oct & Friday 1st Nov 7.30pm Saturday 2 Nov 2.30pm
Tickets £12, under 18s £6
Tickets from The Burton Hotel or ticketsource.co.uk/kados www.kingtonoperatic.co.uk
MUSICAL THEATRE & OPERA
Until Thurs 3 October
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
GET YOUR WIGLE ON bring the Disney favourite to life, featuring a stellar cast, dazzling choreography and costumes. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7pm, £17.50, 01743 281281.
Fri 5 - Sun 6 October
FROZEN JR
GET YOUR WIGLE ON bring this new Disney musical to life on stage. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 11.30am, 2.30pm, 3.30pm, 5pm & 7pm, £16.50, 01743 281281.
Thurs 10 - Sat 12 October MANBAND THE MUSICAL
A brand-new musical by the comedy pen of performer and writer Tim Baker, with a score by Pete and Jo Hanlon. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £21, 01743 281281.
Thurs 10 - Sat 12 October OLIVER!
NEWTOWN MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY. The streets of Victorian England come to life as Oliver, a malnourished orphan in a workhouse, becomes the neglected apprentice of an undertaker. Featuring all the memorable songs. The Hafren, Newtown, 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £20/£19, 01686 948100.
Fri 18 & Sat 19 October & Tues 5 November MAKE GOOD: THE POST OFFICE SCANDAL PENTABUS & NEW PERSPECTIVES CO-PRODUCTION.
A new musical by Jeanie O’Hare and Jim Fortune. Over 20 years a silent tragedy has unfolded in the heart of our communities.. For ages 11+. 18 & 19 Oct - Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, 01584 878141.
5 Nov - Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 01743 281281.
Fri 18 October
JK THE MUSICAL
A production by students in Ross on Wye, plotting the story of John Kyrle’s life. John Kyrle High School, Ross-on-Wye, £10, tickets from Ticket SourceJKHS.
Sat 19 October
HIGH SCHOOL NEVER ENDS - THE MUSICAL
In 1989, 16 year old Emily dumped her boyfriend Jaret. Now in 2008, neither of them has got over each other. Melville Theatre, Abergavenny, 7pm, £25, 01873 853167.
Tues 22 - Sat 26 October
FOOTLOOSE THE MUSICAL X-ENTRICITY. Spirit, fun, outstanding musical talent and incredible choreography. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, & 2.30pm, 01432 340555.
Fri 25 October - Sat 2 November
SHREK THE MUSICAL
CONQUEST PRODUCTIONS. A Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure featuring all new songs from Jeanine Tesori and a side-splitting book by David Lindsay-Abaire. Shrek brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage, and proves there’s more to the story than meets the ears. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, various time, £16, under 16s £12, 01885 488575.
Fri 25 October & throughout November
PAGLIACCI/CLOWNS
MID WALES OPERA are back on tour. Canio, the leader of a touring troupe of comedy actors, discovers that his wife Nedda is having an affair with one of the other performers. Packed with sensational music, Pagliacci retains its cult status as the ultimate operatic a play-within-a-play. 25 Oct - Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 6.30pm, £22, 01584 878141.
1 Nov - Neuadd Dyfi, Aberdovey.
5 Nov - St Andrew’s Church, Presteigne.
7 Nov - Theatr Colwyn, Colwyn Bay.
8 Nov - Criccieth Memorial Hall.
12 Nov - Holroyd Theatre, Chirk.
14 Nov - Dragon Theatre, Barmouth.
15 Nov - Wyeside, Builth Wells, 7.30pm, 01982 552555.
21 Nov - Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 01873 850805.
22 Nov - The Hafren, Newtown, 01686 948100. www.midwalesopera.co.uk
Wed 30 October - Sat 2 November
WIZARD OF OZ
AAODS JUNIORS. Dorothy travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home, meeting the Tin Man, Lion and Scarecrow on the way to the Land of Oz. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, various times, £12, 01873 850805.
Thurs 31 October - Sat 2 November
THE MIKADO
KINGTON OPERATIC SOCIETY. By Gilbert & Sullivan. Lady Hawkins’ Community Centre, Kington, Thurs & Fri 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm, £12, under 18s £6. Tickets from The Burton Hotel or www.ticketsource.co.uk/kados.
CHILDREN’S THEATRE
Wed 16 & Thurs 17 October
THE SMARTEST GIANT IN TOWN
A heart-warming tale about friendship and helping those in need is brought to life in a musical, puppet-filled adventure. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 10am, 1pm & 4pm, £18, under 16s £16, under 2s £9, 01743 281281.
Sat 19 & Sun 27 October
A TIGER’S TALE
M6 THEATRE COMPANY. Based on the extraordinary story of Fenella, the Holmfirth Tiger. A high-spirited balancing act of circus, puppetry, live music and song. For ages 4-11 years. 19 Oct - Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, various times, £9.50, 01873 850805. 27 Oct - The Hafren, Newtown, 3pm, £6.50, 01686 948100.
Mon 28 October
DO NOT PLAY THIS PIANO
William’s school report is not good. But his tricks on the piano are very impressive. His teachers have picked him to play at the prestigious concert for Mozart’s birthday celebrations in Salzburg. Trouble is, he only does tricks... For ages 6+. The Courtyard, Hereford, 11am, 01432 340555.
Mon 28 October
MR CLEVERLY’S TRANS-CONTINENTAL DELIVERY SERVICE
A multi rolling, fast paced immersive storytelling experience for brave children and their families, told via wireless headphones, binaural sound technology and live on stage percussion. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm, £27, children £14.50, 01743 281281.
Tues 29 - Thurs 31 October
MIDNIGHT MOLE
A heart-warming, moon-dancing adventure from the creative team behind Snow Mouse. The Courtyard, Hereford, 11am, 1pm & 3pm, 01432 340555.
Thurs 31 October
THE WELSH DRAGON
Featuring music, rap and a historical twist, this bold new play for children explores Britain’s black ancestry. For ages 7-13 years. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2pm & 7pm, 01874 611622.
Thurs 31 October
HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR
Rib-tickling laughter and bags of audience participation as you join the intrepid explorers on the Halloween adventure. Jam-packed with your favourite Halloween hits and ultra-violet puppetry, for ages 3-103. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 1pm, £12, under 16s £9, family £36, 01600 772467.
Fri 1 November
DINOSAUR ADVENTURE LIVE!
Join our intrepid rangers on a quest to recover the data crystal, restore power to the island and save the Dinosaurs! An interactive stage show. The Courtyard, Hereford, 11.30am & 2pm, 01432 340555.
Sat 2 November
THE GREAT BALDINI FAMILY MAGIC
The show is packed with magic, puppetry, escapology and the hunt for a child with Royal heritage. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 5pm, 01584 878141.
Sun 3 November
RUDE SCEINCE
The naughtiest, funniest, most revolting science show in the world. Brace yourselves for TV Gastronaut Stefan Gates’ high-tech, high-explosive new family show. Free after show photo opportunity with Stefan. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 11.30am & 3pm, 01874 611622.
DRAMA WORKSHOPS
Sat 26 October
EXPLORING SHAKESPEARE’S TRAGEDIES: INTRODUCING ELIZABETHAN TRAGEDY + TITUS ANDRONICUS
A participatory study event, led by Clare Smout. An introductory talk will be followed by group discussion and video clips, plus coffee and cake. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 1pm, £24, 01584 878141.
Thurs 17 (Induction), Sat 26 & Sun 27 October
BE PART OF THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCELOCKED AND ACCUSED
2FACED DANCE COMPANY are looking for 25 community participants aged 18+ to join the upcoming performance. Previous acting experience is a plus, also front of house staff. Rehearsal dates 17 Oct 6-8pm, 26 & 27, 10am-4pm. The Centre for Movement, The Old Court, Gaol St, Hereford, details www.2faceddance.co.uk email john@2faceddance.co.uk
Tues 29 October
COME TO THE CIRCUS! INCLUSIVE WORKSHOP
Vibrant arts activities for young people aged 8 - 15 and with special educational needs/disabilities. The Courtyard, Hereford, 10.30am-3pm or 10.30am-1pm, 01432 346511.
Wed 30 October
HEREFORDSHIRE’S FAMILY FESTIVAL FUN DAY
‘Circus Spectacular!’ Storytelling, dancing, dress-up, music and more for families. Free and low-cost activities, workshops and performances. Fancy dress is encouraged! The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.
ASSEMBLY ROOMS, LUDLOW Sat (term time only)
- Ludwig Theatre Arts for ages 7-17, 2-4pm, contact takepart@ludwigtheatrearts.com Assembly Rooms, Ludlow.
COMMUNITY YOUTH THEATRES The Conquest, Bromyard. Mon - Juniors, Year 1-6: 5pm, £41 per term. Intermediates & Seniors, Year 7+: 6pm, £48 per term. The Phoenix Theatre, Ross-on-Wye. Sat - Phoenix Kids, ages 4-7, 9.30am, £41 per term. Juniors Group 1 for ages 8+, 10.30am. Juniors Group 2 for ages 8+, 11.45am, £45 per term. Market Theatre, Ledbury. Mon - Intermediates, Year 7-9: 7.30pm, £41 per term. Seniors, Year 10+: 8.30pm, £45 per term. Details email takepart@ courtyard.org.uk or 01432 346526.
COURTYARD THEATRE, HEREFORD
Sat - Junior Youth Theatre, Courtyard Kids 9.30am-10am, £67 per term. Year 3: 10.15am-11am. Year 4: 11am11.45am. Year 5: 12-12/45pm. Year 6: 12.45-1.30pm, (£68.50 per term). Year 7: 2.30-3.30pm. Year 8: 3.455.15pm (£70 per term). Thurs - LG Drama Classes, Mini Musicals for Reception - Year 3, 5pm, £28 per month. Thurs - LG Drama Classes, Junior Musical Theatre for Years 4-9, 6pm, £28 per month. Thurs - LG Drama Classes, Senior Musical Theatre for ages 14-18, 7pm, £36 per month.Fri - Year 9: 5-6.30pm, £70 per term. Wed - Intermediate Youth Theatre for Year 10 & 11, 5.30-7pm, £72 per term. Fri - Senior Youth Theatre for Year 12+, 7-9pm, £75 per term. Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.
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.
The Hanging Gardens, Llanidloes, 2-4.30pm, £6 per session. www.shakespearelink.org.uk or 07503 003815. 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 Willow Globe, Llanwrthwl, Llandrindod Wells, 2-4.30pm, check www.shakespearelink.org.uk or 01587 811487.
Thursdays Fortnightly (term time) HAVE A GO SHAKESPEARE All welcome, 10.30am-1pm. Wyeside, Builth Wells, info@shakespearelink.org.uk. 01587 811487.
Sundays (term) REGAL SCHOOL OF CREATIVE ARTS Theatre training to the young people of Tenbury Wells and surrounding areas. Suitable for ages 7-18. Regal, Tenbury Wells, 10am-1pm, www.regaltenbury.co.uk
Poetry & Storytelling
Sat 5 October
BINDERELLA
THE RAGGED STORYTELLING COLLECTIVE. A tale for our times, the wild birth-myth of an Anti-Goddess who challenges the forces of greed and despair to seek to steal our future from us. The Bleddfa Centre, Knighton, www.sidneynolantrust.org
Sat 5 October
FAFUNIA SNOOZY STORIES
Interactive puppetry and storytelling experience, based in the sensory world of Fafunia. The Courtyard, Hereford, 11am, free pre-activitiy from 10.30am, 01432 340555.
Fri 11 October
KNIGHTON FESTIVAL
Poetry afternoon with poets Grahame Davies, Nicholas Murray and John Barnie reading from their latest collections. Knighton Community Centre, 2-5pm, free, www.knightonfestival.wales
Fri 11 - Mon 14 October
GET A WORD IN EDGEWAYS
Spoken word festival of poetry, storytelling and rap. Featuring Tom Juniper, Jimmy Williamson, Cath Edwards, Jason Buck, Despina Ariou, Zahra Afsah, John Row and Trugger Bliss. Various locations in Much Wenlock, full details www.gawiefest.co.uk
Thurs 17 October
PELES POETRY SERIES
Poems by Alistair McGowan (and his Muses). Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 6.30pm, £15 includes welcome drink, 01584 878141.
Fri 18 October & Fri 8 November
BLAST STORYTELLING
18 Oct - ‘A Figure of Speech’ with Daniel Morden. 8 Nov - ‘Raucous Norse’ with Jason Buck and Amy Douglas. Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 8pm, £8, www.ticketsource.co.uk or 01588 630023.
Sat 19 October
WHISTLE AND I’LL COME TO YOU
A ghost story by MR James. Phoenix Theatre, Ross-onWye, 7.30pm, 01989 564570, www.phoenix-theatre.org
Tues 29 October
NARNIA STORYTELLING NIGHT
This magical storytelling event will invite guests to delve deeper into the connections between these magical tales and the Christian story. Hereford Cathedral, 6.30pm, free, but booking is essential, via www.herefordcathedral.org
Thurs 31 October
NECROMANCY
Horror evening with storyteller Kestrel Morton, who spins their bewitching spell of spoken word to appease the hungry underworld gods and make payment for their debt. Hay Castle, Oxford Rd, Hay-on-Wye, 9pm, £10, 01497 820079, www.haycastletrust.org
Thurs 31 October
GHOST TREES
Poet Sarah-Jane Arbury, artist Richard Gilbert and photographer Paul Ligas were commissioned by the National Trust to create a contemporary art walk and exhibition at Croft Castle. The trio take you on a virtual tour featuring their art work and poetry with live music to add to the eerie atmosphere. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.30pm, £12, students £8, 07967 517125.
Comedy
Fri 4 October
WESTONS CIDER COMEDY CLUB
For ages 18+. The Courtyard, Hereford, 8.30pm, 01432 340555.
Fri 4 October
MAISIE ADAM
Out on tour with a brand new show. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £23.10, 01743 281281.
Fri 4 October
COMEDY HOTSPOT
Four brilliant comedians compered by Mick Ferry. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7pm, £16, 01584 878141.
Sat 5 October
THE LEFT BANK COMEDY CLUB
FARCICAL COMEDY. With headliner, Sean Collins. Left Bank, Bridge St, Hereford, £18, 01432 357753, www.theleftbankvillage.co.uk
Sat 5 October
DANIEL O’REILLY: OUT OF CHARACTER
From losing it all, battling addiction and becoming a father, he’s been on some rollercoaster and wants you to come for a ride with him! The Courtyard, Hereford, 8pm, 01432 340555.
Sun 6 October
NISH KUMAR
‘Nish, Don’t Kill My Vibe’. On tour with his brand new politically charged stand-up show. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £24.50, 01743 281281.
Binderella
Sun 6 October
PETE FIRMAN: TRICKTOK
The UK’s top comedy magician. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £19.50, 01600 772467.
Tues 8 & Tues 22 October
TELFORD COMEDY CLUB
8 Oct - Lovdev Barpaga. 22 Oct - Masai Graham and Roger Swift. The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 7.30pm, £8, 01952 610888.
Fri 11 October
ROY CHUBBY BROWN
Still going strong after 50 years in entertainment/comedy. Roy Chubby Brown is the undoubted King of Comedy. Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells, 7.30pm, 01597 258118, www.pavilionmidwales.org.uk
Fri 11 October
AN AUDIENCE WITH ARTHUR SMITH
A fully-fledged playwright, panellist, performer and stalwart of the Edinburgh Festival. He now describes himself as a ‘semi-professional’ comedian. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 6.30pm, £22, 01584 878141.
Sat 12 October
JASON MANFORD
Join Jason as he steps back on stage to try out brand new material ahead of his UK and Ireland tour. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 6pm & 9pm, £25.50, 01743 281281.
Sun 13 October
ROBIN MORGAN: THE SPARK
On the road with a hilarious brand new show. For ages 14+. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £15, 01600 772467.
Sun 13 October
SOOZ KEMPNER
Hitting the road with a brand new tour bringing together her sell out fringe 2023. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £18, 01743 281281.
Thurs 17 October
TOM STADE - RISKY BUSINESS
It’s a risky business navigating the tightrope of today’s times but Tom’s approaching it with his usual gusto. Without risk there is no reward. The Hafren, Newtown, 8pm, £23.50, 01686 948100.
Fri 18 October & Fri 8 November
WESTONS CIDER COMEDY CLUB
Unwind and enjoy laugh out loud comedy from some of the hottest up-and-coming comedians on the circuit. 18+. The Courtyard, Hereford, 8.30pm, 01432 340555.
Fri 18 October & Fri 1 November
JOE PASQUALE: THE NEW NORMAL
Bringing his favourite things for another airing to show that things have never been normal. 18 Oct - Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £25/£23, 01600 772467.
1 Nov - The Courtyard, Hereford, 8pm, 01432 340555.
Sat 19 October
OMID DJALILI - NAMASTE
The Persian Comedy powerhouse performs his critically acclaimed new show, unleashing a torrent of comedic vitriol. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 8pm, £30, 01743 281281.
Thurs 24 October
MARK STEEL OTK
Join Mark as he warms up ahead of his brand new UK tour. For ages 14+. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7pm, £17, 01584 878141.
Thurs 24 October
JIMEOIN
Internationally acclaimed Jimeoin returns with an evening of world-class stand up on his new tour. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £22.50, 01743 281281.
Fri 25 October
FRIDAY NIGHT COMEDY CLUB
Hosted by Drew Taylor with Eva Bindeman and Jack Campbell. Ludlow Brewery, Station Drive, Ludlow, 8.30pm, £12, 01584 873291.
Sat 26 October
THE EDGE COMEDY CLUB
Featuring Duncan Oakley, Archie Kelly and Masai Graham. With MC Tony Vino. The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.30pm, £15, 01952 729911.
Sun 27 October
KIRI PRITCHARD-MCLEAN: PEACOCK
Lifting the lid on social workers, first aid training and what not to do when a vicar searches for you on YouTube. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £16/£14 and NHS, 01600 772467.
Wed 30 October
DOM JOLY: THE CONSPIRACY TOUR
A hilarious, fascinating and slightly anarchic guide to the wacky world of conspiracies. Dom will also be inviting a well-known conspiracy theorist, Dr Julian Northcote to defend the alternative view. For ages 16+.
The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
Thurs 31 October
COMEDY HOTSPOT: BRITISH COMEDIAN OF THE YEAR
Nine comedians all doing 10 mintues each and the audience decides which acts reach the semi-finals. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 8pm, £14, 01584 878141.
Thurs 7 November
THE SCUMMY MUMMIES: GREATEST HITS
They’re bringing their most-loved songs, sketches and stand-up together. For ages 18+. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, 01584 811442.
Talks
Every day until 31 October
GUIDED HISTORICAL TOURS AROUND HEREFORD Mon-Sat 11:30am, Sun 2:30pm (approx 1.5 hours). No need to book. Tickets from the Cathedral Shop and meet at the Cathedral North Porch adults £6, children 6-12 years £1 Contact 07947 924494.
Arthur Smith
Tues 1 October & Tues 5 November
GOING WILD PROJECT
1 Oct - A talk by Daniel Hodgkiss, Going Wild Project Coordinator.5 Nov - Arable to Heathland Recovery, a talk by James Lawrence from National Trust. Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 01588 630023, entry by donation.
Wed 2 October
CANTILUPE LECTURE
‘Luxmuralis Space by Peter Walker’. Sculptor and artist Peter Walker’s work adorns towns and cities nationally and internationally. Hereford Cathedral, 3pm, free, but pre-booking is required, 01432 374225, www.herefordcathedral.org
Wed 2 October
FINDING, SHARING & LOSING WORDS
This talk will explore the ways in which life events and individual differences can influence our language our storage and use. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 2pm, £5, 01982 552555.
Wed 2 October
WHO LIVED IN HAY CASTLE?
Talk by Peter Ford on the people of Hay Castle. Hay Castle, Oxford Rd, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, £10, 01497 820079, www.haycastletrust.org
Fri 4 October
THE MAKINGS OF A MURDERER 2THE REAL MANHUNTER
Featuring Senior Investigating Officer Colin Sutton, who was head of a Metropolitan Police murder squad. The Hafren, Newtown, 7.30pm, £29.50, 01686 948100.
Mon 7 October
FROM WORDS TO SONG
A conversation between composer Jonty Lefroy Watt and poet Zadie Loft. Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 7.30pm, £5, 01588 630023, www.ticketsource.co.uk
Tues 8 October & Tues 12 November
S.W. SHROPSHIRE HISTORICAL & ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY
8 Oct - ‘Brampton Bryan, a serendipitous inheritance’. A talk by Edward Harley CBE, Ld. Lieut. Herefordshire. 12 Nov - AGM. David Preshous: Pritt Stick and Velcro - local history exhibitions. The Church Barn, Bishop’s Castle, 7.30pm, 01588 650173.
Wed 9 October & Wed 13 November BROMYARD HISTORY SOCIETY
9 Oct - ‘It’s The Mortimers Wot Won it’. A talk by Philip Hume on how the origins of the Wars of the Roses lay in the feuds that developed between Mortimer and Lancaster. ‘The long and fascinating times of Constance Radcliffe Cooke’. A talk by Clare Wichbold. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, £6 on the door or online, www.conquest-theatre.co.uk
Wed 9 October
KATE MOSSE: THE MAP OF BONES
Kate will be in conversation about her new historical adventure novel. In association with Rossiter Books. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7pm, £12, (£3 redeemable off purchase of the book), 01600 772467.
Fri 11 October
AN EVENING WITH HAMZA YASSIN
A talk about his passion for wildlife, his career and new book. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7pm, 01600 719401.
Sat 12 & Sun 13 October
KNIGHTON FESTIVAL
12 Oct - Book talks and signings. 10am Jem Poster and Sarah Burton, a discussion for inspiring writers, £5. 11am Monica Macias: Black Girl from Pyongyang, £5. 12pm Fiona Sampson - geological musings, £5. 2pm Jem Poster and Sarah Burton, a discussion of historical fiction/ detective fiction, £5. 3pm Ariane Bankes memoir, £5. 4pm Joe St Clair explores spirituality, £5. 13 Oct - 2pm Astronomer Martin Griffiths, £5. 3.15pm Comedian and novelist Ian Moore, £5. Weekend ticket for all talks £25. Community Centre, Knighton, www.knightonfestival.wales
Sun 13 October
HISTORY OF LEOMINSTER PRIORY’S NORMAN NAVE
Part of ‘The Treasurers of Leominster Priory’, an afternoon of activities, displays and demonstrations. 1-5pm, talk 2pm, free. Leominster Priory, free.
Tues 15 October
LUDLOW AND MARCHES HUMANISTS
‘My Death, My Decision?’ A talk by Phil Cheatle, the Lead Campaign Commentator of the campaign group MDMD. The Friends Meeting House, St Mary’s Lane, Ludlow, 7.30pm, 01568 770282.
Tues 15 October
DR LOUISE NEWSON
Leading medical expert on menopause and hormones on her inaugural UK theatre tour. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, VIP £55, £28.60, 01743 281281.
Wed 16 October & Wed 20 November
TEME VALLEY ARTS SOCIETY
16 Oct - ‘The Art of the Cartoon’, a talk by Harry Venning. 20 Nov - ‘A Dickens of a Christmas’, a talk by Bertie Pearce. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 2pm, £8 or annual membership £50, 01584 878141.
Wed 16 October
CONVERSATIONS AT THE CHAPEL
Author, broadcaster and journalist, Horatio Clare in conversation with Alastair Laurence. The Art Shop, Cross St, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £13, 01873 852690.
Wed 16 October
ABERGAVENNY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
‘David Jones and the Llanthony Valley’, a talk by Peter Wakelin. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, 01873 850805.
Thurs 17 October
JOHN NICHOL’S THE UNKNOWN WARRIOR
John Nichol, a former RAF Tornado Navigator and Gulf War prisoner-of-war, embarks on a poignant journey to uncover the emotional tale of the Unknown Warrior. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
Thurs 17 October
SARAH GILLARD
Artist, Sarah Gillard talks about her work - ‘My Journey in Colour - From Liberty Colourways to Greek Seascapes’. Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 7.30pm, free, but please book, www.ticketsource.co.uk or 01588 630023.
Fri 18 October & Fri 15 November
HEREFORD ARTS APPRECIATION SOCIETY
18 Oct - ‘Musicians and Birdsong’. A talk by John Escott. 15 Nov - ‘Look Up!’. A talk by Anne Harbour and David Marshall. Office Q, Kindle Centre (next to ASDA), Hereford, 2.30pm, annual membership £10, visitors welcome £2, 01432 270660.
Fri 18 October
ALED JONES: FULL CIRCLE
Featuring never-before-heard music, tales from the decades and for the first time, his story told in his own words. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.
Sun 20 October
JAMES ROOSE-EVANS MEMORIAL LECTURE
A talk by Stephen Johnson on ‘The Music of Benjamin Britten and Dmitri Shostakovich, parallels and differences’. Bleddfa Centre, near Knighton, 3pm, free, donations welcome.
Tues 22 October
BILLY BILLINGHAM MBE
Decorated SAS leader and bodyguard to Hollywood superstars, Billy shares his incredible, inspirational story. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £38/50-£33, 01743 281281.
Wed 23 October
SOUTH WEST SHROPSHIRE GARDENING CLUB
‘Irises for The Natural Garden’, a talk by Alun and Jill Whitehead. Lydbury North Village Hall, 7.30pm, membership £20, guests welcome £5, 01588 661025.
Wed 23 October
CAROL KLEIN - HORTOBIOGRAPHY
Book talk and signing by television presenter and horticulturalist. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 01600 719401.
Thurs 24 October
ARTS SOCIETY MID WALES & BORDERS
‘Going to the Ball’, a talk by Jacqueline Hyman. Powis Suite, Royal Oak Hotel, Welshpool, 2.30pm, visitors welcome, £7, 01938 555574.
Thurs 24 October
LIBRARY TREASURES: UNEXPECTED WORLDS
The library and archive team are showcasing an out of this world selection of items from the Cathedral’s collections. Hereford Cathedral, 4.30pm-6pm, £15, 01432 374225.
Fri 25 October
22 YEARS OF MOVIE CLUB, A RETROSPECTIVE
Movie Club Chairman Mike Mills discusses some of the best films the club has shown in the last 22 years. Includes film clips, fun facts and a short film at the end of the talk. Montgomery Town Hall, 7.30pm, 01686 668442.
Fri 25 October
DR ROWAN WILLIAMS
‘Becoming as Little Children: CS Lewis, Narnia and the Theology of Storytelling’. Hereford CAthedral, 7pm, £10, www.herefordcathedral.org
Mon 28 October
ONLINE NARNIA TALK WITH DR JEM BLOOMFIELD
Jem Bloomfield will explore the way Narnia weaves together literary and theological meanings. 7pm, online, £5 via Hereford Cathedral, 01432 374225 or www.herefordcathedral.org
Tues 29 October
KENTON COOL
Britain’s most successful Himalayan climber, Kenton Cool takes audiences on a roller-coaster history of the world’s most notorious mountains. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £21.50, 01743 281281.
Thurs 31 October
ATTENTION ALL SHIPPING
Best-selling author and award-winning broadcaster Charlie Connelly returns with a hilarious and informative one-man show. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 8pm, £16, 01743 281281.
Fri 1 November
DIAL MEDICINE FOR MURDER
Join the High Sheriff of Worcestershire for a unique charity fundraising event supporting Life Chances. This engaging production explores the lives of Britain’s infamous physicians, Dr Harold Shipman and Dr John Bodkin Adams. Presented by Dr Harry Brunjes and Dr Andrew Johns. The show integrates in-depth analysis with contemporaneous film footage and news items. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, £18.50, senior £16, VIP £50, 01584 811442.
Tues 5 November
WHAT ON EARTH?!
A series of linked presentations. ‘Geology Rocks!’ Forces of Alchemy Chemistry for Life. A talk by Geoff Steel. The underlying rock-scape of Kington. Huntington Village Hall, 7.30pm, drinks and nibbles. Kington Kleen, details kingtonkleen@gmail.com
Workshops & Courses
Starting Sun 6 October CREATIVE WRITING COURSE
Six session writing course with Sarah Star. The Oxford Arms, Kington, 2-3pm, 07301 081444.
October ONLINE COURSES - LIFELONG LEARNING
1 Oct - Branching Out: How to use maps for family history, £70. 1 Oct - Life, Death and Religion: Themes in the archaeology of Britain, £130. 2 Oct - Writing Detective & Thriller Fiction, £130. 2 Oct - An Introduction to Genre. 7 Oct - Acorn to Oak: Building a family tree, £130. 8 Oct - Welsh Landed Estates: The gentry and the people, £130. 9 Oct - 20th Century Family History, £130. 10 Oct - Memorials and their meaning: Controversial gateways to you, £130. 10 Oct - Researching Women’s History Course, £130. 12 Oct - Dialogue Discussion and Debate, £220. 15 Oct - Autobiographical Writing, £130. 16 Oct - Writing Women course, £130. 17 OctMetaphors, Allegories & Thought Experiments, £130. Some courses running over several weeks. Lifelong Learning, Aberystwyth University, 01970 621580, www.aber/ac/uk/learning
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
Last Tuesday of each month HOMEND POETS
Open mic. No booking required. Pot & Page, 8 New St, Ledbury, 6.30pm, www.potandpage.co.uk
THE COURTYARD WORKSHOPS
Mon - Writing Room Extra. Ongoing sessions for writers with some experience, 3-5pm, £110 per term. Mon - Writing Room. For writers of all abilities, 6.30-8.30pm, £90 per term. Tues - Reading Room. For adults who love theatre and enjoy script analysis, 10.30am-12.30pm, £60 per term. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.
grass roots
New Green MP Demands Clean-up of Dirty Rivers
AMID the severe defeat inflicted on the Tories in the July election were some important small victories for the Green Party. After many years when the only Green in the commons, sitting in Brighton, was Caroline Lucas, the party has quadrupled its representation.
In Broad Sheep territory, Ellie Chowns has now become the first Green Party MP in the midlands, as the member for North Herefordshire. In her maiden speech, Chowns highlighted the dire state of the River Wye, and of the River Lugg, and called for both to be restored urgently to good health.
I confess to a personal interest in both these waterways. At my last house, the garden ran almost down to the banks of the Lugg. And, on the Wye, once in a while I used to enjoy some gentle canoeing near Hereford.
The Wye is home to protected species such as otters, kingfishers, white-clawed crayfish and Atlantic salmon. Until last year the river was classified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest by the environmental regulator, Natural England.
But in 2023 the status of the Wye was downgraded to “unfavourable – declining”. Ellie Chowns alleges that a big factor in the steep decline of the Wye has been “…the recent major expansion of the industrial poultry industry”.
She believes the damage is largely due to agricultural run-off. “For too long,” says Chowns, “our rivers have been treated as free sewers and this cannot continue. Businesses cannot “free ride” on the natural world. Companies must not profit from pollution.”
She asserts that the expansion of the poultry industry in the last decade or two has played a major role. BBC News West Midlands reports that lawyers acting for people affected by the river pollution have written to three companies alleged to be responsible.
The legal firm involved is Leigh Day. Its letter names Avara Foods, and its subsidiary Freemans of Newent. According to the lawyers, together Avara and Freemans control 120 intensive poultry units, while a third company, Cargill plc, based in the USA, is a 50% shareholder. It imports phosphorus-rich soy, which is used to feed the birds.
Leigh Day say that poultry numbers in the Herefordshire area have increased from 13 million to 18 million over four years, causing a big increase in the amount of poultry manure being excreted.
But Avara has said it will vigorously defend its position. In 2003 it said all manure from its operations was now taken away from the Wye and used elsewhere
in Britain. And Avara has now said “We are proud of our business, providing high quality and affordable chicken and turkey for consumers.”
This year Avara has also said it is reducing the number of its farms in the area and is cutting the amount of manure produced from 160,000 tonnes a year to 142,000. It says the issue of excess phosphorus long predates the growth of poultry farms in the River Wye catchment.
When it comes to action against polluters and lax water bosses, Green MP Ellie Chowns and the law firm Leigh Day may be pushing at an open door. For, in September, the Environment Secretary, Steve Reed, unveiled a new bill “to crack down on bosses for polluting water”.
It is claimed the new legislation will end “the disgraceful behaviour of water companies and their bosses”. The Environment Secretary goes on to say that “…water executives will no longer line their own pockets whilst pumping out this filth. If they refuse to comply, they could end up in the dock and face prison time.”
But, two words of warning. High flown environmental rhetoric costs nothing. And the government concedes that, since water privatisation, only three people have been criminally prosecuted by the Environment Agency without appeal, despite widespread illegality.
So – watch this space! And keep a sharp eye on all those new ministers and on the hundreds of MPs who constitute Labour’s massive majority, to make sure there is no back-sliding and that the government delivers on its pledge to enforce a thorough clean-up of our waterways.
Julian O’Halloran
Ellie Chowns MP for North Herefordshire
Green Events
October GREEN HOMES
7 Oct - Green Tech: Energy expert and data modeller Duncan Sluce will present the key factors in selecting and sizing the right green technologies to decarbonise your home, free webinar, 1pm. 19-20 & 26-27 Oct - Green Open Homes. Local homehowners are inviting you to explore how they’ve transformed their homes into more comfortable and energy-efficient spaces. Discover solar panels, batteries, EV charging, heat pumps and insulation soloutions. 10am-4pm, admission free. Details www. greenopenhomes.net. Future Ready Homes webinar series (free) - informative webinars to help you transform your home, catch up on YouTube, details www.futurereadyhomes.org.uk
19 & 20 Oct - Greynog Hall & Garden, Gregynog, Newtown, 10.30am-4pm, donation. 20 Oct - Tranquility Haven, 7 Lords Land, Whitton, Knighton, 2-4pm, £5. 20 Oct - Tranquility Haven, Whitton, KNighton, 2-4pm, £5. www.findagarden.ngs.org.uk
October ONLINE COURSES - LIFELONG LEARNING
3 Oct - Field Survey Techinques, £130. 8 Oct - Peat and Peatlands, £130. 8 Oct - Discovering Invertebrates, £130. 14 Oct - Animal Diversity, £130. 14 Oct - Dealing with Data: An introduction to statistics, £130. 15 Oct - Pollution Monitoring, £130. 15 Oct - Identifying non-flowering plants, £130. 15 Oct - Plant Diversity, £130. 22 Oct - Water Birds Identification. Lifelong Learning, Aberystwyth University, 01970 621580, www.aber/ac/uk/ learning
October APPLEFEST AT NEWTON COURT
Until 12 Oct - Special AppleFest lunch menu. Until 5 Oct - Apple harvest cider tours, 1.15pm. 3 - 5, 10-12 Oct - Wooden Apple Painting, make your own fridge magnet, coaster or decoration. 26 Oct - 3 Nov - Orchard Pumpkin Trail. Newton Court, Leominster, HR6 0PF. Open Mon-Sat 9am-4.30pm, Sun 9.30am-3.30pm, 01568 611721.
October SHROPSHIRE HILLS DISCOVERY CENTRE
Booking essential. Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, 01588 676060.
October HEREFORD CATHEDRAL
3, 10, 12, 24, 26 & 30 Oct - Tower Tours (218 steps), times vary, 11.30am & 1.30pm, £8, children £5, tickets from the Cathedral shop. Mon-Sat, 11.05am & 2.15pm - Cathedral Tours, £6 from the Cathedral Shop. 14 Sept - Heritage Open Day: Cloister Tour, 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, free, but advance booking required. www.herefordcathedral.org 01432 374210.
Every weekend from Sat 5 and half-term, 24 - 31 October THE PUMPKIN PATCH
Pumpkin picking, (18 varieties) with no booking required. Plus, this year, ‘The Night Maze’, a spooktacular night-time maize maze, pre-booking only. With food from The Rein Inn, Big Smoke BB!, The Beefy Boys, The Grub Shed, The Pizza Box, Divine Donuts and It’s So Fluffy. A new Halloween scavenger hunt awaits to take you around the farm and field. New House Farm, Marden, Hereford, HR1 3EW, open 10am-5pm, 07792 827184 and Facebook - The Pumpkin Patch Hereford.
Sun 13 October AUTUMN PLANT FAIR
Over 50 exhibitors selling a wide range of rare and unusual plants, trees and shrubs, artisan foods, crafts and much more. Hergest Croft Gardens, Kington, 10am-4pm, 01544 230160, www.hergest.co.uk
Wed 16 - Sat 19 October SPACE - A SPECTACULAR SOUND AND LIGHT SHOW
By Luxmuralis. Walk amongst the stars and planets. Discover the creation story and the Big Bang within this sacred space and view the final image of Earth as if looking back from space under a galaxy of stars. Hereford Cathedral, 6.20pm-9pm, £9, children 3-16 £6, under 3s free. Tickets from The Courtyard, 01432 340555. Sat 19 October LEOMINSTER APPLE FAIR 2024 Apple display, stalls, entertainment, refreshments. Priory Church, Leominster, 10am-4pm.
Every day until 31 October GUIDED HISTORICAL TOURS AROUND HEREFORD
Mon-Sat 11:30am, Sun 2:30pm (approx 1.5 hours). No need to book. Tickets from the Cathedral Shop and meet at the Cathedral North Porch adults £6, children 6-12 years £1 Contact 07947 924494. http://www.herefordguidedwalks.org.uk/ October KINGTON KLEEN
26 Oct - Apple Pressings. 30 Oct - 5 Nov Kleen Community Shop Fundraising week, bring your pre-loved stuff on 29 Oct. Further info email kingtonkleen@gmail.com
KINGTON LOCAL ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY NETWORK (KLEEN) Encourages community resilience through our Electric Car Share Club, public Orchards, tiny Coppice Woodland, Presentations & networking without borders. Email: kingtonkleen@gmail.com
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. First Saturday of the month LEOMINSTER REPAIR CAFE, 10-12.30pm. Community Centre. Household items, jewellery, clothing etc repaired for free, donations welcomed. See Facebook, also booking via website, www.leominsterrepaircafe.org.uk
Tuesdays INFORMAL VOLUNTEERING If you are interested in volunteering, come to our Volunteer Drop-in session held at Knighton Community Centre on a Tuesday morning, 10am-12pm, or if you know someone who needs help or you want to find out more about volunteering, please contact Louise Home our Informal Volunteering Officer on 07848 021282.
The Pumpkin Patch
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 / www.hayacupunctureclinic. co.uk
ACUPUNCTURE AND TUINA: I use TCM acupuncture, electro-acupuncture and Tui Na (therapeutic massage) to treat a wide range of health conditions. In Ledbury at my home treatment room on New Street, and in Hereford at Kyrle House Practice (kyrlehouse.co.uk 01432 273234). Acupuncture-Acutherapy Council member. Ruth Busbridge, BSc MSc Dip.Acupuncture. https:// rbacupuncture.co.uk/ 07743809466 ruthbacupuncture@ gmail.com
ALEXANDER TECHIQUE LESSONS with Ron Colyer, B.Mus., M.S.T.A.T. An Alexander teacher, accredited by and member of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique, with over 40 years experience, I am currently offering lessons in Malvern and surrounding areas. Alexander work can help with back pain, joint pain, neck pain, as well as enhancing skills, e.g. in performing arts, yoga practice, etc. The lessons help you to become aware of faulty habits of body use, including inappropriate tension or misdirected energy. You learn to help yourself - it’s really a reeducation process rather than a therapy. For more on Alexander Technique visit alexandertechnique. co.uk Contact me on 07733 253056, or email alextechwithron9@outlook.com
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
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
BODY CLINIC, LEOMINSTER Holistic Therapies and advice for rehabilitation, pain, mobility and long term health conditions. Improve and/or support mental health, wellbeing, women’s and men’s health, fertility, pregnancy and much more. Unsure what’s best for your health issue? Book a Holistic Health assessment so an experienced health practitioner can help you. 17 West St, Leominster HR6 8EP www.thebodyclinicleominster.co.uk 01568 368 907/07493 078 566. thebodyclinicleominster@ gmail.com
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 https://the-bright-n-bute-company.business.site CLINIC SPACE AVAILABLE in this busy, light and fully serviced multi disciplinary health centre. Working collaboratively to offer holistic health therapies in The Marches area. The Body Clinic, 17 West St, Leominster HR6 8EP. Half day, day and per client (if relocating or new to practice) basis. Good patient referals. www. thebodyclinicleominster.co.uk 01568 368 907/07493 078 566 thebodyclinicleominster@gmail.com Please call to arrange an informal look around.
CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY SERVICES - DR NANCY BANCROFT Are you struggling with intense emotions, feeling overwhelmed, lost or stuck? Make sense of your experience and create lasting change, with a specialist mental health professional. Trauma-focussed psychotherapy ~ EMDR ~ mind-body integration 1:1 therapy ~ training ~ supervision. Online and face-to-face sessions available in Pembridge, Herefordshire.Contact hello@thebodyinmind.co.uk www.thebodyinmind.co.uk
COMPLETE BALANCE I am a fully trained therapist with over 20 years’ experience working with the therapies of The Bowen Technique, Health Kinesiology, and Reiki & Seichem. I help people with a wide range of conditions, helping to find solutions for lasting health and wellness. My unique approach offers health packages and therapy sessions tailored to meet individual needs. Check out my Restore in Four, or Calm and Clear programmes featured on my website. Sessions are offered via Zoom, Skype or face-to-face where appropriate and I offer a free 15-minute phone call to see if I can help you. For information 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.
EMDR AND HYPNOTHERAPY: Sabina Jennings BSc, PgDip Derm, Dip EMDR, Dip Hyp. HWHP. Solution Focussed Hypnotherapist and EMDR therapist for Anxiety, Low Self Worth, Relationship Concerns, Suffers of Narcissist Abuse, Imposter Syndrome, Fear of the Future etc. Visualization techniques for business and sport goals. 1 to 1 sessions or on-line. Supporting you to move forward from the limiting beliefs and habits of the past. Phone 07464202715 or see my website www.hypnotichub.co.uk.
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 www.thewritetofeel.com.
EROTIC EMBODIMENT FOR WOMEN If you’ve tried lots of different practices, modalities, spiritual pursuits, and still feel like something is missing, I’d love to help you find that spark of joy, aliveness and pleasure you are longing for through the simple magic of your own body. One-on-one and group sessions. Connect with me, Emily Martin, at 07747 250720 or www.bigasskinkyheart.com
GONG BATH SOUND MEDITATION SESSIONS IN & AROUND HEREFORDSHIRE. Soundscapes can aid in the letting go of old emotions & limiting behaviours. I run twice monthly Group sessions, & also offer 1:1 sessions, hen parties, corporate / wellbeing events, retreats. For more info. Contact Lizzie 07870345216 www. lizzieyogahereford.com
HAPPINESS COACHING & PERSON CENTRED COUNSELLING I’ve been practising 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 julietablett@mailbox.org 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.
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).
LIFE COACHING AND ANGELIC HEALING: a safe space for you to grow. Move through blocks, clarify your goals and receive bespoke support along the way. Book your clarity call now and see if we’re a good match: https://www.openlotusliving.com/work-with-me
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.
PROFESSIONAL, EXPERIENCED, UKCP ACCREDITED PSYCHOTHERAPIST & COUNSELLOR. Kington based. Face-to-face sessions for individual adults over 18. No couples work. Regain control of your life, restore meaning to your existence and relief from anxiety, sleeplessness and troubled relationships. Penny Cole 07776 146427. http://www.pennycolecounselling.co.uk
SHADOW WORK, COUNSELLING & DEEP PROCESS PSYCHOTHERAPY Facilitated shadow work is a type of embodied deep process psychotherapy. I work one-toone in longer sessions, typically 5-hours. These deep-dive sessions offer an accepting and shame free space within which to explore and transform those habitual, ingrained or unconscious patterns, beliefs or behaviours that trapping you and hold you back from living a full, meaningful and joyful life. This work holds the potential for deep personal growth and deep healing and is the place to dive real deep into difficulty and challenge, shame or guilt, your grief, your pain, your fear or rage. The holding I offer you is both sensitive and strong, and you are invited to bring any issue you wish to our work together. Find out more about shadow work and to schedule a free 20-minute consultation at: www.inner-truth.co.uk - Alasdair Kirk07792 405 660.
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
SPORT’S HYPNOTHERAPY AND EMDR – Amateur
sports men and women can benefit from sports hypnosis just as much as the professionals. If you are looking to improve your sports performance mindset, staying focussed and putting aside distractions and unwanted negative beliefs, Hypnotherapy and EMDR can help. If you love sport, but finding a setback, imposter syndrome, lack of motivation or lack of focus is holding you back then why not call and see if Hypnotherapy and EMDR is for you. Contact – Sabina Jennings BSc, Pg Dip AID, Dip. Hyp. HWHP, Dip. EMDR. Tel 07464202715 www.hypnotichub.co.uk
SILVER LANTERN COUNSELLING a compassionate space with someone trained to listen and be with you as you explore your inner world, someone to hear your story. For more information visit www.silverlanterncounselling. co.uk, telephone Julia on 07785 473785 or email: info@silverlanterncounselling.co.uk
SOUND THERAPY BY EDAN SOUND. Soesen Edan is a qualified Sound Therapist with over 20 years of experience running 1-2-1 and group sessions, teaching and retreats. Sound therapy is excellent for all manner of ailments & disease; regulates heart rate & blood pressure, reduces stress & anxiety and brings people to a deeply relaxed state. Monthly group sessions held in Herefordshire, Malvern & Birmingham. 1-2-1 sessions in Holme Lacy. Extensive experience working with complex disabilities & autism; prison therapeutic education, corporate sessions, team away days, workshops & bespoke sound consultancy. www.edansound.co.uk
SOUND THERAPY, with Gongs, Singing Bowls and other therapeutic instruments to relieve stress and anxiety, restoring mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. Monday night ‘Sound Bath’ sessions at The Fold, Bransford in Worcestershire and at Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, Herefordshire, 1-2-1 treatments in Ledbury, retreats, private groups, workshops, celebrations. Contact Cecilia on 07857 128 082, info@csoundspace.com www.csoundspace.com
Workshops
WORKSHOP LISTINGS - Single (dated) listings are free. Year round, ongoing workshops will cost £45 per year.
October ONLINE COURSES - LIFELONG LEARNING
17 Oct - A Took Kit for Supporting Someone with Dementia. £70. 17 Oct - Mindfullness Course, £130. 21 Oct - Applied Positive Psychology Course, £130. Lifelong Learning, Aberystwyth University, 01970 621580, www.aber/ac/uk/learning
Fri 11 - Sun 13 October GOOD VIBRATIONS
Yoga, Sound and meditation in nature retreat. Immerse yourself in the serenity of nature, guided yoga sessions and sound healing in the form of musical workshops, meditations and mantra. Daily vegetarian and vegan meals. The Chapel on the Green, Glasbury, HR3 5LJ, 07545 581555, www.riverflowyoga.co.uk
Fri 25 October GONG BATH
Deep relaxation sound journey with Chrys Blanchard. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a mat or reclining chair, blanket, pillow and drinking water. Upstairs at The Chapel, Cross St, Abergavenny, two sessions to choose from, 3.45pm-5.30pm or 7.15pm-9pm, £15, booking essential, 01873 852690.
Fri 25 - Mon 28 October WILD WOMEN SAMHAIN RETREAT
Join Cecilia and Mimi for an energising weekend of wild nature workshops, sunrise cacao ceremony, sound baths and more. Seasonal plant based menu. Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, near Ledbury, Limited to 10 women, single room occupancy from £505 (3 nights), 07857 128082.
Fri 25 - Sun 27 October YOGA & FORAGING IN ANCIENT LANDSCAPES
Reconnecting with the natural world through yoga and meditation practices. Foraging with Adele Nozedar in local places of beauty, foraged food will be used to cook for the Saturday meal. Daily vegetarian and vegan meals. The Chapel on the Green, Glasbury, HR3 5LJ, 07545 581555, www.riverflowyoga.co.uk
Sat 16 November BREATHWORK FOR HEALTH
A practical workshop exploring how breathing practices work and why they are beneficial for our physical and mental wellbeing. Community Centre, Knighton, 10.30am-12pm. Old School, Presteigne, 3pm-4.30pm. All welcome, £10 suggested donation, further information, wingsofchange24@gmail.com
Fri 15 - Sun 17 November QUEER NATURE RETREAT
This is a yoga and wellbeing retreat for our LGBTQ+ community. Indoor and outdoor activities designed to promote self-nurture, empowerment and connection. Yoga, outdoor walking meditation, daily vegetarian and vegan meals. The Chapel on the Green, Glasbury, HR3 5LJ, 07545 581555, www.riverflowyoga.co.uk
Mondays & Tuesdays BREATHE IN YOGA WITH KATY The Regal, Tenbury Wells, Mon 9.30am, Tues 6pm, 01584 811442.
PILATES CLASSES Community classes in Titley Village Hall, Lyonshall Memorial Hall and New Radnor Community Hall. Private lessons in my garden studio in Titley. All abilities and ages welcome. Pilates reduces back pain, increases strength and flexibility, tones your body from top to toe. Move it or 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.
HATHA YOGA & SOUND THERAPY WITH BRIDGET ROWAN 90min Yoga classes on Zoom and in Peterchurch HR2 0RS to keep you moving and doing the things you love and to bring a sense of calm, peace and improve your wellbeing. Group soundscapes held regularly in the beautiful St Peters Church, Peterchurch. Individual yoga and sound therapy sessions available. Please see my website for further information www.bridgetrowan.uk or contact Bridget 07904 111334.
Third Wednesday BEREAVEMENT CAFE
An informal and friendly gathering. College Hall, Hereford Cathedral, Hereford, 2.30pm, www.herefordcathedral.org
LUDLOW ASSEMBLY ROOMS
Mon - Yoga, 9.30am, £8. Julie Burdett 07780 905729. Wed - Pilates, 10am, £10 per session. Sarah on 07967 482510. Weekly - Hatha Yoga, 6.30pm, £6 per session. Katherine 07975 535408. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow.
