Well, what else is there to oyez about? Congratulations must go to our Devizes Town Crier, Charlotte Howard-Macdonald, again today, as Brian Mathew MP tabled a motion in the House of Commons celebrating her achievement of winning the 73rd National Town Crier Championship in Rye, only two months after taking up the role…
Recognised as our first woman to serve as Town Crier for Devizes, Charlotte said, โthis is a first; a speechless Town Crier! Thank you so much, Brian, for this wonderful and completely unexpected recognition, and to the MPs who have added their support. Seeing my name in a parliamentary motion is quite surreal!โ
But whoa there, all this talk of female town criers, isnโt there any room to celebrate the guys too?! Charlotteโs husband Moray MacDonald is an outstanding producer of electronic music who creates the most wonderful soundscapes under the pseudonym Cephid. I first met the Lavington-based couple upon reviewing Cephidโs album Sparks in the Darknessthree years ago.
Moray cut his teeth touring with progressive rock and metal artists such as That Joe Payne, Godsticks, Kim Seviour and Ghost Community, more recently he remixed for OMD. Of Sparks in the Darkness I said at the time, โgorgeous complex structures and intense electronic textures,โ making comparisons to everything from the Doctor Who theme, through to Kraftwerk, The Art of Noise, Yello and American electro outfit Newcleus, explaining โCephid encompasses these, yet is ultra-modern, uses tech as orchestral, and is as fresh as the Buxton spring; like Jean Michel Jarre came after dubstep, as if 808 State created Tubular Bells!โ
Forward wind to February last year, Moray finally staged the album at Bathโs Rondo Theatre, and I had to make a beeline. It was a breathtaking show, to see the album played out live added to the magnificence of this achievement and made it all seem real. The added bonus was to see the laser harp Moray created at seventeen, but had never used publicly until that gig. And after this monumental occasion, the audience were invited to try the homemade electronic instrument themselves.
The gig caused me to contemplate the progression of electronics in music, and how we take it for granted. Though Devizes is a blues town, of conventional analogue instruments, Moray informed me of the townโs little known influence on the development of electronic music by the way of Daphne Oram, a pioneer of electronic sound who was born in the town. On her centenary I ran a series of articles about Daphneโs life, focusing on her largely unrecorded early years in Devizes.
Why am I reminding you of all this now, you might ask?! Well, thereโs the thing. Tickets have just gone on sale, for Cephid is coming to St Maryโs Devizes, for a one off electronic concert on 28th November, and yes, he will bring his laser harp. Moray is supported by Richard Anthony Bean, an electronic music composer and producer from Exeter; be there!
With Devizesโ historic connection and affliction to the blues, it can be a challenge to introduce other genres of music to our town, although there is an audience here accepting diversity, of people who worship the eighties electronic scenes from hip hop to synth-based new romantic and new wave to gothic, and the ravers which followed, and from here stems the concept that technology is so commonplace in music we no longer see the seams.
These are the people I need to entice, because please, oh hear ye! Believe me when I tell you this show is incredible, and unlike anything else youโve seen in Devizes before!
On the Festival of Discovery, other political discoveries, and is the Crammer full yet?! No to the latter, but local Facebook groups are full โฆ.of negativity!
I’m in no place to review the Festival of Discovery which happened last weekend in Devizes, being Devizine was asked to contribute, and because of that contribution, I didn’t catch the amazing variety of goings on, being sentry at my post, save for a pasty break. But I think there’s positive and negative things to be said about it, plus a few points which require a degree of balanced clarification.…
Oh, for the forked tongues of keyboard warriors; those vocal minorities disgruntled by attempts to bring free community-driven festivities to town, when a majority braved the minor drop in temperature, just as everyone does for the far more inclement Christmas festival. While we still live in a democracy, sorry killjoys, but we’re duty bound to go with those who made the effort and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Starter for ten thousand, let’s clear this one up immediately. Yeah, you’re bang on the money, it would’ve been lovely to have had this happen during summer. One comment read, โWhy have it in October with all the beautiful weather we have had this summer!!โ Iโll take it as a question easily answered, even if there was no question mark.
For those stating the bleeding obvious, in order to slam DOCA, and largely from a Conservative twonktank, please note, it is all about the money. The Street Festival doesn’t come cheap, and was cancelled in May 2024, during the final and brutal Conservative cut of Arts Council funding, on which DOCA relied on.
Fortunately, since the political party which, let’s not forget, were hosting cocaine orgies at 10 Downing Street, and fornicating like Emperor Caligula on a stag do in Thailand, while forty thousand of our most vulnerable perished in care homes, was obliterated, Labour has been a smidgen more generous towards the arts. Creative director Loz made a triumphant return to Devizes, got me on the blower only a month ago, to ask if I’d like to host an area dedicated to young talented musicians, for this festival she was rushing to announce.
Naturally, despite not being able to tick neither โyoungโ nor โtalentedโ boxes, I jumped at the opportunity. It took a lot of last minute organisation, as it did for the other dedicated volunteers of DOCA, who worked tirelessly to put this event on; shame on you if you favoured nitpicking on Facebook instead of attending it.
I wasn’t on traffic duty. I did my bit, with Simon, the best grand prix pit stop sound engineer, and Mr Ian James powering us up, and it was flipping amazing! Every singer-songwriter I could think of in the right age bracket turned up, seemingly not stuck in traffic neither flown in by helicopter Shirley Bassey style, gave it their 120%, and showed the few who bothered to turn out that local music is safe in gen z hands.
Having already lavished on the popular Confetti Battle and Colour Rush, I reasoned with Loz that what’s left in the kitty could’ve been put into bringing a spectacular Winter Festival and Lantern Parade. To which Loz shrugged and replied, โyeah, you’d think so, wouldn’t you?โ Such it was revealed to me, the grant given has an expiry date prior to Christmas, and if it wasn’t spent it would be lost. So, it really was a case of, does DOCA put in the overtime and seriously get on the case of a celebration with an extremely short window of organisation schedule, or would Devizes have an ordinary weekend of shopping and dog walking?
So, rather than sitting picking their noses, we had the Festival of Discovery, and what did we discover?! Who’d have flunked bringing such a wonderful festival to Devizes would result in a plethora of harsh online criticism?! Did we even know of their existence before this weekend, or were they discouraging โbots?โ Devizes used to be such aโฆMatter of factually, Mr Grumpy lived in Crosspatch Cottage, actually located in Happyland, and I’ll leave this there.
Could’ve caused less of a stir if traffic was delayed due to a woman-beating Reform conference. The result of a family of ducks crossing a road in Devizes is traffic chaos; do we shoot the duck?! Actually, with the bitterness posted on the usual suspect Facebook groups, don’t answer that.
Congestion was a suggestion, and a valid point, it was slightly more chaotic than normal and that was unfortunate, for which DOCA apologised and took action, reopening the Market Place on Sunday. There may have been overlookings in signage of road closures, if so it could’ve been because of the lack of time to get this festival organised; a lesson learned, but which didn’t deserve the verbal punishment it received, from those unwilling to volunteer their help, I should add.
But, please save me the spiel about not knowing this well-advertised event was occurring, for I’ll only retort like a Specsavers advert and say, โyou should’ve gone to Devizine!โ I wouldnโt rely on the Gazelle & Herod telling you about an event, unless Martin Kemp, the Queen Consort, or Nigel Farage is attending it.
Oh, and by the way, it was DOCA who addressed the traffic issue and acted accordingly, not councillors, despite what one certain Mr Wallis might tell you. Though the same Conservative councillor waffled on his Facebook page speaking highly of the event for the illusion of balanced popular opinion, but trundled past the festival looking like his shoes were more important. This was the very same killjoy Devizes Conservative town councillor who once suggested the street festival wasn’t โdiverseโ enough, despite it was so obviously the most diverse event Devizes has ever seen!
Whereas two councillors, one independent and another a Guardian, stopped by to praise my attempt to engage and stage young people. A third was the hopeful and right choice, Guardian candidate for Devizes East, Rosemary McDonald, who did likewise, and when she did, those Masters of the Tory Universe shamefully laid in waiting for her, like snipers at the gate.
Today the same councillor, Wallis, one which others earmark as some kind of arch- nemesis of Devizine, whereas I’d rather it be simply that whenever there’s trouble at mill, he’s grinding it, is showcasing their Devizes East candidate for the by-election, Laura Ayling. Apparently Laura is single handedly going to tackle antisocial behaviour in the Market Place, and is seen shaking the firm militant hand of none other than Dirty Harry PCC Wilko, right there, on the spot.
You have to chuckle if this is the spinning point for the desperate Conservatives, being the Devizes Guardians have already written to Wilko on the subject, requesting a larger police presence. Odd how, hey presto, as soon as the prospective Conservative candidate steps in, the apparently apolitical PCC too busy to reply to Guardians, who boasts of shooting people on his Faceache page, around the same time Wallis tried to encourage me to interview him because Iโd find heโs actually a โreasonable guy,โ manages to suddenly find the time to majestically ride into town like Clint Eastwood for a photo opportunity.
The antisocial behaviour in the Market Place isn’t a political matter, it’s as it says, a social one, directed at Devizes police to keep the peace. It is unfortunately going to occur whoever sits in the seats, and however many officers they can throw at it. Therefore no political party is to blame, and no party can resolve it any better than another, in my honest opinion. But, it’s clear from this outrageous Facebook post, those trusty Tories will make it a core of their battleground, and play is going to get dirty. Their hypocrisy reaches its peak today, when I will thoughtfully let you in on a secret; Mr Wallis made an official complaint to the town council, because Rosemary was photographed in Sidmouth Street! Oh the outrage!!
Rosemary came to Sidmouth Street partially because I invited her to, begging your pardon sir, being that rightfully addressing youth issues in Devizes is part of her campaign, and core to one of our objectives, of which you saw the results of in the very street this weekend; thank you for coming, and I hope you missed the part where I sang with the legend who is Ruby! Devizes Market Place, Devizes in general, isn’t a battleground, and Sidmouth Street isnโt the trenchline, Rosemary does, surprisingly, have a right to walk down it, just as we have the right to throw a party there.
Ha! And others even rallied in the comments sections to try and blame DOCA for this rise in anti-social behaviour, without any reason or logic, because once you publish your rant, no matter how valid your point, these threads of negativity spiral out of control. Hereโs two classic quotes, for example: โAnd a woman outside Boots openly peed on the pavement!!!โ And โTrump could of organised better and it would of been the best best ever event!โ
It’s a shame the original comments made from traders who directly benefited from the Festival of Discovery at the weekend were overshadowed by those who claimed they unfortunately didn’t, but it is the negative which pushes the circus into the big-top. The ignoramus absurdity that Trump should work for DOCA, and then heโd put a stop to people peeing outside Boots, is why weโre in the shit we are in, surely?! Brittox of Trump, letโs rename it now, save him the bother when he arrives.
Yes, there were huge gaps in happenings in the Market Place, space is required for safety of some of those acrobatic and circus shows, but the remaining gaps were supposed to be filledโฆ. by you! You! The ones, it seems, who opted to cry on Facebook instead. Is this the way of things now, or was this just an unfortunate isolated incident? Because I’m concerned.
This event was so well-organised and staged so many amazing features it should have attracted thousands. The fact it didn’t left me wondering why, and wobbled my head with many thoughts.
I thought about the Reclaim The Streets parties in the nineties, where anarchist eco campaigners took dumpsters and blocked streets, resulting in one giant rave, and no disgruntled whingers. I tried to imagine it happening in Devizes, and what the result would have been. We had no Facebook to bark at then, but even if Devizes was a Conservative safe-seat, still, I refuse to believe its population were ever party poopers, before this terrible today where the flag flies half mast.
Even in this modern era of Trumpconomics, Bristol sound systems simply hang speakers out of a window, and the community outside gathers to party like there’s no tomorrow, likely because there isn’t. There’s often even an elderly lady rocking with her zimmer-frame. Why are we so stuck in mud here in Devizes? It’s a brilliant little town, where they ironically hashtag #nothingeverhappensindevizes – I hope the users of this gag-tag aren’t the same ones crying like spoiled babies, because some people here thought it’d be nice to throw a random bash in October. Oktoberfest, anyone? It’s a thing elsewhere!
Then I gave consideration to Street Festivals of yore, how we all gathered to enjoy ourselves, and worry last weekend illustrates how times are unfortunately changing; you canโt give away a festival in Devizes. I remember with fondness how I got up on stage at the last one, to introduce Nothing Rythmes with Orange, to a sea of people covering the entire Market Place and cramming down the Little Brittox to get in; what an incredible effort from the good people of Devizes. Thereโs a photo Iโll drop below; ask yourself, are you there, and if so, did you attend this weekend, and if not, why not? Genuine inquiry.
Iโm aware and appreciate the sterling efforts made by so many, including Councillor Ian Hopkins, who freely created the Street Festival, and remember what Loz brought to the table. A blaze of colour and curiosity, a natural development of the unusual, especially here in Devizes. I gave consideration to the Ceres/Ruth Pierce display, her parting gift to Devizes, which held everyone spellbound, even the drinkers who took the day as the piss-up they dubbed Black Rat Monday, stopped and watched in awe! Where was Lucy and Wilko to save us from those black rats back then, eh?! Back then, we coped with the extra traffic, we didnโt require ten kazillion Facebook posts to remind us it was happening, we just made our way there, and celebrated all that is good about living and loving our town.
Loz and everyone contributing their time to DOCA, deserve the key to Devizes city, for the wonderful events they have driven, not the verbal criticism they so poorly often receive. It really makes me worry about the bigger picture, the terrifying thought that this rise of the far right will see the demonisation and degradation of arts throughout the country, not just Devizes. They seem to hate anything which challenges their regressive social restrictions or questions the insular society in which they wish to live under, and that just happens to be pretty much all interesting art and creativity.
Someone even had the audacity to redden about those brilliant Hydropunk neighbours of ours, pointing to the defunct hosepipe ban as a source of their anger, like a hundred litres of water is going impact the global water shortage; did they fail to observe the absolute thrills on the faces of our youngest residents as they flocked to play with the hydro apparatus, or did they simply not care for want of ranting?
Two other horrifying comments on the thread, abhorrent about this weekendโs festival, suggests the struggle is real: โStop public funding for “Arts” there are much more important things to spend public money on!โ where I wonder what else this person thinks the Arts Council funding should grant other than arts, or are they more simply seriously misinformed about how DOCA is funded, (through this grant and public donations,) and one other which puts an opinion quite bluntly; โThis crap has to stop!โ Find that guy sulking in the kitchen at parties!
But to assume misinformation is root to the outcry doesnโt excuse an ex-town-councillor exiled to Rowde Parish Council, Chris Greenwood, for he knows precisely what he means, and it was this monstrosity of evil: โI have always been concerned by the wholesale lack of transparency and accountability from DOCA. They appear to be the one organisation that has the ability to close down roads in the Town Centre almost at random. Iโm led to believe that DOCA is considering a rebranding exercise, as the Arts Council have apparently indicated that Devizes doesnโt possess a broad enough spectrum, from which to extract an audience – either pedestrian or vehicular. One of the new names having been considered is โRaking In The Moneyโ which does seem rather apt, as the Arts Council have stumped up a few hundred thousand over the years, until tightening the screws after the Flying Fiasco a few years ago! A significant chunk of the proceeds also have a history of being distributed well outside our Borough, rather than supporting local performers.โ
Oh hi there Chris, your stab at humour is hardly on a Billy Connolly level. Did you come and see the eighteen local young performers I staged on behalf of DOCA this weekend? Because I certainly didnโt see you wobble past in your Crocs at all. Did you notice local musicians John E Wright, Del-Boy Jepson and Sarah Tarry in the Brittox? And given that, who made you Judge Judy on such matters?! You misinformed Professor of Penistry!
I trust I can go out on a limb here, as heโs unlikely to have read this far, and remind our readers that this is the despicable Mr Toad and Wallis bumchum who falsely claimed bird flu killed the freezing cold malnourished swan on the Crammer, so they could cull all the pigeons and gulls, and who banned me from his petty Facebook page for suggesting a police officer who was an active member of a hunting criminal ring who stupidly filmed themselves actually killing a fox, was a conflict of interest!
Are you therefore going to believe the absolute filthy pig swill which spews from these verminโs mouths?! Or are you going to say, you know what, I might forget the petty nonsense from grandstanders and political pointscorers, and enjoy the time I have left on this godforsaken planet?! The Festival of Discovery was brilliant, with the potential to thrill the whole town, if they bothered to show their disgruntled mugs!
by Ian Diddams images by Gill Morrell and Penny Clegg
How all the other passions fleet to air, As doubtful thoughts and rash embraced despair, And shuddโring fear, and green-eyed jealousy – Merchant of Venice, Act 3 Scene 2, William Shakespeare
O, beware, my lord, of jealousy; It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock The meat it feeds on; that cuckold lives in bliss Who, certain of his fate, loves not his wronger; But, O, what damned minutes tells he o’er Who dotes, yet doubts, suspects, yet strongly loves! – Othello, Act 3 Scene 3, William Shakespeare
Thus says firstly Portia, but more specifically Iago to Othello, in the eponymous play, ostensibly to warn against jealousy, but in fact manipulating Othelloโs insecurities in his Machiavellian scheming. And thus this โShakespeare Liveโ autumn touring production gains its show name, as director and deviser Gill Morrell has creatively and carefully curated a number of Shakespeare scene, with the common theme of jealousy. Most Shakespearian plays performed by community theatre groups typically have a few actors multi-roling in generally supporting character roles, but here Gill has taken a cast of nine all multi-roling performers across twenty-three pieces, taken from from a mixture of twenty-six plays from Shakespeareโs tally of thirty-eight!
The focus on โjealousyโ understandably means the tragedies and historical plays are well represented, but even so ten comedies are included in this collection. As Gill says herself โJealousy turns out to be a prime motivation for conflict in love, families and politicsโ. And how we see these examples from โOthelloโ, โKing Learโ and โHamletโ segue smoothly with โA Midsummer Nightโs Dreamโ, โTwelfth Nightโ and โMuch Ado about Nothingโ.
It would become a litany of names and characters to list everybody and each of their roles which would bore everybody, so I shall desist here other to say the cast of Hero Fancett, Penny Clegg, Sarah Horrex, Liz Hollis, Jeremy Reece Iain Lowe, Roger Hames, Jim McCauley and Charmian Norman Taylor between them portray two full ensembles and a mind boggling sixty-seven characters, with not a little panache, style and vigour.
All of the above were more than excellently supported by stage management of Connor Palmer, James Dennis, Graham Paton and Ellen Read; tech by โ who else?! โ Alex Latham; music by โ who else ?! โ Laurie Parnell; costumes by Hermione Skrine.
Of course, to learn who plays which parts, in which extracts from which plays there is a very simple solutionโฆ to get yourself to a show during this Wiltshire tour
Marden House Centre, Calne – Weds 21 Oct The Town Hall , Corsham -Thurs 22 Oct The Merlin Theatre, Frome -Fri 23 Oct The Cause, Chippenham – Sat 24 Oct
“What are you doing in my swamp?!โ Shrek asked a horde of fairytale creatures, exiled to his wood by Lord Farquaad in his namesake Dreamworks 2001 award winning film. Everyone loves that ogre, which began as a fairytale parody, but, even if as banter, his name has become an eponym embedded into popular cultureโฆ.
In this case, though, Shrek is either Mac’s Theatre School students Harry Yandall or Cameron Nash, Lord Farquard is Amelia Mascall or Zoe Miller, and the swamp is Devizes School! Yes, Mac’s is bringing Shrek The Musical to Devizes from 28th to 31st October…I’m a donkey on the edge!!
In its tenth year, the troupe at Mac’s Theatre School has achieved notable success, winning Eisteddfod medals and taking home glowing reviews for their ambitious musicals like The Addams Family and Our House; and not just from us!
They auditioned and performed on the main stages of Disneyland Paris, but it’s the audience who also benefit from their specialised workshops hosted by West End professionals, and high production standards, utilising professional sound technicians, lighting designers, and a live backing band. Mac’s provides inclusive, affordable weekly training in acting, singing, and dancing for children aged 4 to 16, but the standard of their performances will amaze you!
The other main roles go to Lily Ancrum or Isla Poirot as Fiona, Jacob Marsh, or Immy Foster as the unforgettable Donkey. We wish the whole cast the very best of luck!
Shrek the Musical is a Tony Award-winning stage adaptation of the original 2001 DreamWorks animated film, featuring music by Jeanine Tesori and a book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire. It expands the beloved movie into a full two-act theatrical production with 17 original songs, diving deeper into the backstories of Shrek and Fiona.
Tickets for the shows are available HERE, or at Devizes Books. While it’s unconfirmed if they’ll have parfaits, I guarantee you, those Mac’s kids are amazing, and you’re in for an entertaining evening!
Okay you lovely lot, who are deffo coming The Festival of Discovery this weekend across Devizes, and who, deffo, going to pay us a visit at Albion Place, yesterday I highlighted all the wonderful acts we have performing on Saturday, but we do it all again on Sunday too…..
So here’s what we have lined up on Sunday, and it is equally as amazing as Saturday, so don’t over do it the day the before, and find us, same time, from 11:30 until 5:30pm at Albion Place in Sidmouth Street. Here’s who we have playing for us; ooh, I’m so excited and couldn’t hide it even if I wanted too!
From Devizes and performing as Tamsin Rose, at fifteen Tamsin already has built an impressive portfolio both as a singer-songwriter and guitarist, and acting. Tamsin attends Stagecoach, and has performed in numerous stage shows and musicals, including the poignant lead as Anne Frank for the Wharf Theatre.
Lois is from Devizes, currently studying at Sixth Form near Winchester. Lois is our youngest writer for Devizine, ever! She also performs at open mics.
12:40: Indigo Avenue
Indigo Avenue is a duo consisting of Rufus Townsend and โฆโฆ.. Rufus is Trowbridge based, and the guitarist for Devizes-own riot grrrl band Steatopygous, who have recently toured with The Pumpโs Sketchbook Records.
Alife is sixteen, and a singer-songwriter from Warminster who has already taken on stages in Warminster, Frome and Trowbridge. He busks in Bath regularly, sharing his original music and covers with the world. His original music follows a blend of indie rock, with RnB and chill guitar music.
This summer Alfie was invited on stage by frontman of the Kooks, Luke Pritchard, to play guitar with the band in front of thousands of people during their set at the Boardmasters Festival in Cornwall.
Orla is a singer-songwriter from Bath, and she brings with her Jack Hughes, as an acoustic duo who have been performing together for a few years in various bands. Orla played Womadโs launchpod stage, and I met her first at Courting Ghostโs Three Trees Festival at Trowbridge Town Hall.
In our review of this brilliant festival I called her performance โclearly one to watch. With crystal vocals she gave us some divine originals, including a particularly poignant one called Mouthwash, and made Crowded Houseโs principal her own.โ
Seren is a folk singer-songwriter from Warminster with a voice you wonโt forget.
Seren performs a mixture of original songs and covers. โMy favourite covers to perform are Fast Car by Tracy Chapman, Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield, and Black Star by Radiohead,โ she tells me. โI first started performing in May 2024, and since then I have performed at CorFest 2025, Swinterfest, and have supported Irish folk musicians in Salisbury including The Henry Girls, Daoirรญ Farrell, and Tim Eady and Mike McGoldrick. I am inspired by a mix of artists/musicians and genres such as folk, indie, pop, indie rock, and jazz.โ
Seren regularly performs with Meg Hoy, who performed as our headliner on Saturday.
Poppy Rose is a singer-songwriter, guitarist, and vocal coach from Bath, known for original acoustic pop. Weโve been reviewing her recordings for a few years now, but Iโve not had the pleasure of meeting her in person, until now. James of BBC Introducing in the West played her newly released and completely unique EP, Let’s Go Swimming.
Ruby is a Scottish born singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist currently residing in Bradford on Avon. Ruby is likely no stranger to Devizes, regularly playing our venues and festivals here, as well as busking with bagpipes.
Ruby grew up playing music anywhere she could. From her first performance at the Edinburgh fringe festival, to Celtic connections and many folk festivals around Scotland, Ruby’s background created the best foundation for her ongoing career in music.
Her second EP released in August 2025 has created a stir. Her debut single Caller Unknown, with help from Tim Burgess of the Charlatans and produced by Freddie Cowan of The Vaccines, was first played on BBC6. Rubyโs other music has found its way into Celtic music radio, Radio X, BBC introducing South West, BBC Bristol, Cornwall and Devon as well as Bath Radio and Radio Wilts and many local radio live lounge sessions. Awarded the Best Female Solo Artists at the 2025 Wiltshire Music Awards and Second Place Instrumentalist as a Highland Piper, opening the awards event as the special guest.
So, youโre joining us at Albion Place on Sidmouth Street in Devizes this weekend, right?! Donโt say Iโve not told you about it once itโs over!! Thereโs so much going on for this Festival of Discovery and DOCA have worked tirelessly to provide an amazing FREE weekend, but Iโm here to tell you a little bit more about who we have playing in the Devizine Launchpad areaโฆ.
You can download the program HERE and find some amazing things going on throughout all three zones; amazing things Iโll likely miss because Iโll be with sound engineer Simon Stockley, Ian James of Light & Sound, and these amazing young and talented singers, songwriters and musicians:
I’ll start with Saturday and bring you news of Sunday tomorrow…..
Saturday 17th October
11:30: Stan Jenkins
Stan is a thirteen year old singer-songwriter and guitarist from Trowbrigde. A student of Bath & Wiltshire branch of The Rock Project, Stan joined the Trowbridge Town Hall Youth Board and with friend Oliver Clark recently sold out Trowbrigeโs Old Town Hall organising a teen open mic evening.
I’ve not seen Stan perform myself yet, so get here early and let’s kick this off together in style!
Sienna is a singer-songwriter and actor from Swindon. She began writing and performing aged ten, and released her debut single Petals in 2022 at fourteen. Her style is dark folk-rock to pop, with progressive accompaniments. Sienna vocalised for AuralCandy, and is inspired by her father, Richard Wileman of Karda Estra. Sienna is currently studying at BA Musical Theatre in Winchester.
Though I’ve not yet met Sienna in person, we’ve been covering her singles for a few years, and she contributed to the second 4 Julia’s House compilation album with Petals.
Braydon Lee Jones is a fifteen year old solo acoustic singer-songwriter from Calne, and is rapidly becoming one of the South West’s most exciting young artists. Despite performing live for just over a year, his incredible stage presence has already landed him on major stages like the Bristol Harbour Festival and the Phoenix Festival in Cirencester. Blending a diverse mix of well-loved covers with a growing catalogue of country-infused original material, Braydon-Lee brings a fresh, high-energy performance that appeals to music lovers of all ages.
It has been a massive breakthrough year for the young artist, who was recently featured on BBC Introducing in the West and is currently shortlisted in the Top 5 for three separate awards, including Best Male Artist, Best Newcomer, and Best Original Track for his hit single, Endless Summer.
Unfortunately I missed Braydon at CrownFest this summer, but I did catch him for the first time at FullTone Festival a couple of years ago!
Jodie is twenty-three, a Cheltenham UGC travel creator, musician and vlogger.
With over 103k followers on Tiktok, Jodie creates aesthetic content to showcase hotels/airbnb brands in a natural and relatable light. Sheโs worked for Tiktok Live, and has experience in social media marketing. Jodie also regularly busks and brings her own spin to popular covers.
That’s where I first saw Jodie, busking in the Devizes Brittox!
Ed Dowdeswell, a level 3 music student, is an emerging grassroots singer-songwriter and musician based in Devizes. The stepson of Jamie R Hawkins of The Lost Trades, heโs learned from one of the best. Ed also fronts Chippenham band Olympiad.
Ed is often found at open mics, I first saw him at The Fold’s open mic in Devizes.
Rosie Jay is an indie folk-rock-alternative professional singer-songwriter from Salisbury, currently studying music at Bath Uni. Rosie writes her original music and creates haunting and memorable lyrics and riffs that capture the world around her, creating a captivating experience for the audience an evening of walking in her shoes. She won two Wiltshire Music Awards last year, runner-up in a third!
So impressed with Rosie’s singles, we become friends a few years ago, and I first saw her performing at The Crown in Bishop’s Cannings.
Emelia is a singer-songwriter from Marlborough, currently studying for GCSE’s. With a passion for storytelling through song and performance, Emelia’s last performance at MantonFest blew me away, along with everyone else watching!
Emelia is a regular at MantonFest and RamsFest and also enjoys musical theatre, performing in school performances, and has previously performed professionally at the Watermill Theatre in Newbury.
Meg Hoy, or M3g, is an original singer-songwriter of indie-folk from Chippenham. With numerous local appearances from The Pump to Swindon Shuffle to Minety and Chippenham Folk Festival, her self-penned songs are uniquely poignant experiences. Influenced by artists like Florence Welch and AURORA, she has been performing live since age 14 and has built a notable local presence, including winning The Neeldโs battle of the bands, and opening for Frank Turner at the Bristol O2 Academy. Her music is celebrated for its emotionally transparent, unique lyrics, which she roots deeply in her personal experiences and her autism.
I first met Meg when my daughter Jess was doing work experience with Devizine, and she interviewed Meg. We’ve been friends since, and no matter how many times I’ve seen her perform, she always takes my breath away.
I’m so pleased Meg is headlining our Saturday, and everyone else who is playing; I’m more excited then they are! But, we’ve another day on Sunday, same time same place, and don’t think for a second I’ve put all my eggs in one basket, because Sunday is going to blow your mind; I’ll be back tomorrow to highlight who’s coming on Sunday!
Wowzers, it was four years ago since we last mentioned local singer-songwriter and musician Lou Trigg, when we reviewed her single to come out of Potterneโs Badger Set studio, Flowers. Itโs a good time to catch up, because Lou is releasing a three track EP called Delaying the Inevitable, this Friday (16th October,) where the finale is a second part to Flowersโฆ.
At the time I called Flowers, โa chorale delicacy,โ which โtrickles along sublimely,โ and there’s been no change of style since, only a huge development in the narratives, and Louโs ability to express them. All these songs are equally angelic and orchestrally ambient anti-ballads, which, with subtle piano, angelic backing chants, acoustic guitar and the occasional moody drum, perfectly balances the distinctive and euphoric desperation in Louโs voice.
This time around Lou recorded them herself at Mudlark Sound Studios outside Bath, and Martin Spencer mastered them at The Badger Set. Thereโs three tunes, subtle folktronica, complete, quite short, yet songs with that kind of ambience which leaves me wondering what magic someone like William Orbit would make of them.
You (Her) has a slight electronic buzz but is deeply poignant. It takes the โtalking to the other womanโ narrative of Jolene to the next level. I mean, we never know if Jolene acts on the obsessions of the storytellerโs partner, itโs all in the assumption, but here, the broken-hearted narrator sends the cheater directly to the third party, dejected but with a warning of his negative characteristics. Itโs a moody break-up song where, even when thereโs sadness, thereโs something magically and satisfyingly uplifting in this beautiful song. This tenet flows through the three tunes.
Home has the hook and commercial viability, and drifts so wonderfully youโll believe youโve known this song all your life. The differences here being it seems more communal, and any doubts in the relationship seem subjective, that the object of her desires is metaphorically as comforting as home, when they choose to be. โItโs a song about your birthday wish,โ Lou described, โthat every birthday, you wish for the same thing and will, until you get it, what you once had.โ
The second part of Flowers is a melodic conclusion to the past ballad, and slightly more folk-inspired, with only a delicate and perfectly placed electronic click. It ventures to a dark denouement, capturing the mood of a victim of an emotionally abusive relationship and impels the listener to mourn, or at least take sorrowful heed. โIt ends the story I began to tell,โ Lou explained, โunfortunately, it didnโt have the best ending, but I decided to share my story, as many women will have gone through similar. I thought it was an important story to finish.โ
Thereโs an honest melancholic passion driving these songs, reaching out to the spellbound listener. Lou stresses this closure of Flowersโrelays a dark time in my life,โ and every sublime beat is a tear the listener feels on their own cheek. It really is on an Adele level of emotional expression. But the magic here is also lying heavily on the distinction of Louโs powerfully unique vocal range, and the musical compositions reflecting them. And for these elements included, and so cleverly combined, these three beautifully poignant songs match what Adele left the world.
Now I know at this exceptionally high accolade of a comparison youโll cry, โoh you, with your saccharine flattery,โ and assume that Lou must have some really posh biscuits in her biscuit barrel Iโve got my eye on! But Iโll tell you now, that bloke with the lovely smile, Mr Threlfall, has been spinning Home on BBC Introducing in the West last week, and Lou knocked these songs for a six at Komediaโs Electric Bar last night. So, just you wait until Friday, check them out for yourself, and youโll realise thereโs more than a packet of M&S All Butter Scottish Shortbread at stake here!
Delaying the Inevitable, is out this Friday (16th October.)Here’s Lou’s Spotify, follow and pre-save!
Well, what else is there to oyez about? Congratulations must go to our Devizes Town Crier, Charlotte Howard-Macdonald, again today, as Brian Mathew MP tabledโฆ
On the Festival of Discovery, other political discoveries, and is the Crammer full yet?! No to the latter, but local Facebook groups are full โฆ.ofโฆ
by Ian Diddamsimages by Gill Morrell and Penny Clegg How all the other passions fleet to air,As doubtful thoughts and rash embraceddespair, And shuddโring fear, and green-eyed jealousy- Merchant of Venice, Act 3 Scene 2, William Shakespeare O, beware, my lord, ofโฆ
Whatโs that? What have we been missing? Well, itโs been a while since the last Talk in Code single, and thereโs one coming our way on Friday (16th October,) so thatโs a good startโฆ.
Ah, those gorgeous guys could turn a straight manโs head, with their bridging the gap between eighties new wave electronica and nineties indie pop, dancing around it clad in Adidas, and generally creating timeless anthems; and this one is another high impact tune, with upbeat euphoric ambience, racing choruses and rousing hooks.ย
What Iโve Been Missing fits their lovable trademark style, and is particularly reminiscent of the memorable eighties power pop of Go West, Duran Duran, or Deacon Blue. In equal measure it corresponds to contemporary indie trends from the likes of the 1975, The Killers, Two Door Cinema Club, Fickle Friends, Years & Years, and Keane. Unarguably another earworm their fans will be singing straight back to them.
What Iโve Been Missing, is to be released on Friday 16th October 2026 via Regent Street Records. Aligned to their discography, this substantive and dynamic track also has thoughtful prose of romantic circumstance. With a narrative of conflict between approach and avoidance, and its denouement, frontman Chris Stevens uses the hyperbolic idiom, โWhere have you been all my life?!โ to define it. In the final discovery of a soulmate, he expresses, โweโve all got that little something or someone, that missing piece in our lives. Or is it that we just crave more, all too often?โ
“Imagine finding a person who you really click with,โ guitarist Alastair Sneddon furthers, โall the anxieties about getting into a new relationship are there, close to the surface, waiting to burst out. It’s exciting, you know the person is going to fill that space that you have been feeling is empty, but it’s just difficult to say out loud; this is that internal monologue.”
If the theme is a sentimental catharsis, the release of emotion rests, and is delivered by the infectious soundscape their devoted fanbase adore them for. Chris expresses it as a โretro-infused, euphoric indiepop banger which will have you dancing round the house in no time!โ
What Iโve Been Missing was recorded at The Pines Studio, Berkshire.
Talk in Code took home six awards at the 2025 Wiltshire Music Awards, including Best Original Band, and Best Original Song. They have 1 million+ streams, 3 million views, and 35 radio ‘A’-list adds. They signed to London’s Regent Street Records, with active sync representation via Big Hug Music Group and Play Equals Sync.
Their recording and performing history details three albums, and a constant variety of gigs, festival appearances, and tours, where they appropriate their surroundings and thrill audiences. Talk in Codeโs momentum progresses, sharing stages with Ash, Sleeper, Years & Years, The Feeling and Scouting for Girls across Victorious Festival, The Great Escape, Godney Gathering, Jurassic Fields, and performing at iconic venues such as The Cheese & Grain, Frome, The Horn, St Albans and The Fleece, Bristol.
Despite substantial growth, their loyalty to their supporters, dubbed โtalkers,โ remains paramount in all their activities. Putting โfan community first,โ Talk in Code has acquired an unparalleled fanbase and ingenious merchandising, through an active WhatsApp fan group to a unique Lego-inspired loyalty reward scheme.
What Iโve Been Missing is released on Friday 16th October, across all streaming platforms. Talk in Code have an instore session planned with HMV Swindon and later that evening of Saturday October 17th, they will be playing a hometown single release show at The Victoria, Swindon.
And believe me, you may have seen Talk in Code before, they get around a bit, but the best place to see Talk in Code, Talkers will tell you, is at their home-ground in The Vic, Swindon. With support From Bluebeard and the Desperate Hours, it’ll be a great night!
People power in Devizes! Due to pressure from Devizes retailers and councillors, Wiltshire Council today revised their plans for essential cable works in Devizes, originally set to commence during the busiest Christmas periodโฆ.
Retailers were informed the works were planned from 12th October until 18th December, covering The Brittox, Little Brittox, Wine Street, Long Street, Morris Lane and The Shambles. Making it clear they were not against the works happening, just the poor timing, which, with stop-go traffic controls, threatened to lessen footfall during the crucial Christmas shopping period, Ida McConnell of Devizes Retail & Independents rallied local retailers and councillors to ask Wiltshire Council to consider postponing the work. And it was successful.
Wiltshire Council posted an update, stating theyโve โworked closely with Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks, to agree a revised programme of works in Devizes that significantly reduces disruption and protects the townโs important festive trading period.โ
This included a promise the current works would be completed by 21st November, that any remaining work has been pushed back until January, and access to shops and businesses will be maintained throughout. They also stated work on Little Brittox will take place between 5pm and 11pm to avoid normal trading hours, and activity on Thursday market days will be reduced between 9am and 3pm.
After an initial โwhoohoo!โ Ida said,โThe original letter was initiated by us at the request of Justina from The Healthy Life Company, and Faye from Fayeโs, with support from Jodie at The Gourmet Brownie Kitchen, three local retailers,โ and she thanked them. Ida also thanked all town and county councillors who โworked together to get the issues addressed.โ
And herein lies the secret as to how this happened so effectively. Ida said, โthis was a team effort from local councillors from different political persuasions,โ giving special praise to Devizes South Cllr Maria Hoult, Devizes North Cllr Ian Hopkins, and Devizes East Cllr Jonathan Hunter, as well as the two hundred people who signed the letter to the council.
In a time where local Conservatives are abusing the Government-enforced waste food recycling and three weekly bin collections change to fiercely rally their candidate for the Milford by-election, Laura Jones, hoping it will topple the Lib Dem led county council, this joint effort should illustrate exactly why any need to topple them should be taken with a pinch of salt. On this issue, as with many others to date, the newly led Wiltshire Council clearly listened, and responded positively.
Yet Devizes town councillor Iain Wallis is seemingly expanding his โlocalโ boundary to include campaigning in Salisbury, and said, โvote Conservative in Salisbury Milford and they will no longer be running the council. A vote for anyone else will allow them to continue.โ But we could only speculate how the outcome on this issue might have differed coming from a Conservative led Wiltshire Council, and, more worryingly, what lengths they would be prepared to go to in order to secure this win; would they jump in bed with Reform?!
In their desperation to regain control, this nightmare scenario is more likely than we might imagine, and then theyโd be too busy singing the National Anthem, like every council meeting is the World Cup Final, to have sorted this so quickly!
Local issues are more effectively resolved when councillors disregard any national party affiliation and work together with the public; this success story proves it. Compared to the previous Conservative led Wiltshire Council, the Lib Dem new guys have only just got their foot in the door, and things are already looking better. They deserve to be given a chance in my opinion.
Meanwhile, not to overly poison this good news story, the success of our local indie shops during the Christmas build up no longer can be governed by, or blamed, on roadworks; only on and by you, shopper! This ballyhoo would be a completely and utterly pointless waste of time if you then go and shop online anyway! We must support our local businesses and do a Christmas shop here, in Devizes.
Devizine recently ran a review of JP ( aka Josh) Oldfieldโs new EP โSaltwater Gospelโ โฆ so, this wonโt be an in depth repeat of blow-by-blow coverage of said E.P. and gig, rambling on for several pages [TFFT โ Ed.]
The physical E.P. itself comes in three parts; the case, a cardboard flip case with hand drawn (no bloody A.I. here) logo on the front, and stylised track listing on the back, all by JPโs own fair hand. Then there is the actual CD itself of course. And also, a small booklet containing a short story in a Norse saga/Celtic story style, inspired in part by โThe Rime of the Ancient Marinerโ written by JP himself. And printed etc. JP learned to linocut to make these CD cases, and each one is its own work of art, slightly unique from others in the limited run of 100 pressings. A true labour of love and true piece of artwork.
The story of has six chapters, regaling the life of the sailor after his wife has died, and the repercussions of his burial choices. There are biblical allegories and/or homages ( โHeavy Was the Rainโ, โFurther From Heavenโ), supernatural allusions (โItโs Just Begunโ, โNo Restโ) and even quasi Spaghetti Western references (โThe Preacherโs Nooseโ).
Each of the six chapters is directly connected to the six tracks in turn โ the story reflected in both text and music. Kids of the 60s and 70s will recognise the idea of a concept album, and this is indeed very much a concept E.P. โ perhaps not so much โProg Rockโ but โProg Bluesโ. There are no Peter Hammill/Van der Graf Generator twenty-minute tracks on this some may be pleased to hear, but a couple of tracks come in at a healthy almost six, and seven, minutes to touch a cap to that very fine tradition. And whilst an E.P. not an album, nonetheless its six tracks will entertain you the whole journey when driving from Batheaston to Devizes. The production on the CD is absolutely top notch; nothing has been spared. The result is a hypnotic and even heady mix of JPโs self-described Southern Gothic, dark folk, Americana and blues songs that I found myself playing on repeat all this week. The harmonica backing on โPreacherโs Nooseโ and โWash Me Awayโ is just sublime. The driving guitar rhythms, especially in the slower tracks tell a story in themselves.
Thence to โThe Tuppenyโ in Old Town, Swindon on Thursday, where two hours of JP gave us the entire E.P., stripped back to just his resonator, between other of his own stuff and a couple of covers, delivered very much in JP style.
JP is on tour with this E.P. based show currently (see below) and the EP and other merch is available right >>> here <<<
So there you have it โ a brief overview of a cracking new album and the delights of a live show.
A month since the UK came to terms with the consequences of drought, understood the significance of a raindance and why Johnny Cash asked โhow highโs the water, mamma?โ I ventured to see how The Crammer in Devizes is copingโฆ.
It’s been a day since we finally received a night of heavy rainfall, followed by a chiller night without much precipitation, but unfortunately the water level hardly touched the sides, and is still best described as a โpuddleโ rather than โpond.โ
During the heatwave the BBC sent Borat, or at least his doppelganger, to stand in the middle of it for clickbait. No one from any environmental angle was invited to this party, only a Conservative town councillor who was encouraged to, not chat about future hopes or actions which could be considered, but about the folklore of the Moonrakers.
With Borat’s divine knowledge on the subject, this reporter persuaded his audience that because The Crammer has been here for centuries, โwe know it will fill back up.โ If there’s logic in this please point it out to me.
Let’s not butter it up with speculated reassurances and beloved stories of yore simply because residents in Devizes love tradition. Let’s not take sides, as Facebook keyboard warriors opinionate if it will or won’t fill back up. Yes, the Crammer relies solely on rainfall, so its levels will increase when it rains and fall during dryer spells. But I believe the real question we should be asking ourselves is, will it fill back up before the next heatwave, and the one after that, and the one after that?
It’s having a devastating effect on the wildlife there, of course, and we sympathise, of course we do. But the positive from this tragedy could be that we have in our midst, an unmissable pie chart, which Devizes residents can walk past and visibly see the effect of climate change. Bang! There it is, right before your eyes.
Sometimes people need to physically see to believe. We should view The Crammer as serving Devizes with undeniable evidence, actual representation, and hope it will encourage these ignorant deniers to rethink their wonky thesis, even if it offers no solution.
The obvious notion that while it was a desert it could be cleaned up also came under debate, where councillors, some who have denied the Crammer is polluted in the past, are going to tell you it’s too expensive, probably because it is. The run off from the road has caused toxicity which would require specialist attention to clean, is the general consensus, and has certainly been used as a penny-saving excuse, but, but, mamma, you said it wasn’t polluted!!
So, we leave a giant polluted empty puddle as our town’s focal point and pray to the gods it might refill before the next drought; welcome to Devizes, sorry, we cannot recommend open water swimming here, not even if you are a duck.
We have Facebook groups, Friends of The Crammer, and Crammer Watch, which both serve a worthy purpose, but perhaps, if we love our puddle, we need not to watch, befriend, or wallow in fables of moonlit cheese, but take positive action as a community. We’ve only got a pond to challenge us, but perhaps we could begin by taking a trip to Calne, where a charity of activists, The River Warriors regularly assemble via their own self-determination to clean out The Marden, to see how they’ve tackled an entire river.
We’ve suggested before, for the benefit of the wildlife, where swans become trapped there or risk the vertical takeoff across the busy road, because it’s the only option, that a professional assessment from environmental specialists might be better than Borat from the Beeb. That we might have a feasible study drawn, suggesting improvements to the design to better serve the environment and the wildlife. We could, in theory, have a mini conservation area, rather than a polluted duck pond.
But one thing is certain in my mind, when it is as dried out as it has been, we could at the very least, reroute the runoff pipes from the road, and add new ones from the grassland on the Green. We could, at the very least, explore our options given by experts, rather than take to Facebook to convince (ourselves more than others) to keep calm and carry on, as it will refill when the rains comeโฆ we hope….
Tomorrow, Friday 2nd October, sees a new single from Chippenham indie folk singer-songwriter Meg Hoy, or M3G, and it’s called My Riverโฆ.. If you deemโฆ
Chedworth, Gloucestershire; proud village soloist, songwriter and model Flora Fiora is kicking the tyres and smashing windows in with a new single, and itโs aboutโฆ
The Wharf Theatre in Devizes is thrilled to announce a major new chapter in its artistic programme: the theatre has officially become a registered screeningโฆ
A ladies-only club, four gloriously eccentric rooms and a barista in a bowler hat: The Dressing House is anything but ordinary. Devizine contributor Charlotte Howardโฆ
The power of three. Three men. Three apartments. Three items of furniture. Three snacks bowls. Three types of drink on a drinks trolley. Three revolving periaktoi (triangular columns) for set backdrops. Three paintings. And three mothers for Yvanโs nuptials.
Its all about the threes.
Beginning with the three friends; Serge, Mark and Yvan, long standing best buddies. They are all three, different in temperaments and styles, but they have been the closest of chums for a decade and a half. Serge is the intellectual of the trio, an air of sophistication (trying a tad too hard) โ bohemian in appearance, an open necked shirt with red cravat, dark slacks with tan shoes, worn sockless.
Mark is the groupโs cynical pragmatist; sensible, standard clothes with a muffler; it reflects his – if not austere – plain, unfussed approach to life, viewed almost as binary perspectives… right/wrong, black/white, good/bad, brilliant/ rubbish.
Yvan completes the set as an overly contrite peacemaker and doormat, rather messily attired โฆ he is not a man bothered with outward appearances; creased, rumpled trousers, dark brown shoes and a loose fitting white shirt topped off with a nondescript, baggy cardigan buttoned up incorrectly.. The three together present an asexual mรฉnage ร trois, each interwoven into each others lives inseparably โฆ yet the threads of that grouping are unravelling. Slowly at first, but gathering pace throughout until towards the very end it is all but destroyed.
We learn that whilst Yvan is unbothered with external appearance he does bother with personal relationships and cerebral challenges created by the clashes within such relationships. He is distraught that the bond between the three of them is breaking, appalled that his best friends in turn deride him, laugh at him, and even despise him โ and his fiancรฉe. His mental turmoil over his upcoming wedding is more grist to his mill of anguish, as three mothers โ his fiancรฉe’s, his birth mother and his step-mother (who he detests) โ insist on being listed in invitations but not with others in that triumvirate.
Serge has bought a work of art. Worthy of the appellation โฆ ART. It cost a six figure sum. He is haughtily both delighted and pretentious about it. Mark has no time for it whatsoever โ he certainly views the painting as irrelevant pretension, and a thorough waste of money. He resents that in fact the ART has supplanted him in Sergeโs affections, it is now more important than he is. Yvan as befits his non confrontational nature agrees with Mark but cannot bring himself to say so to Serge, and so ends up in twisted discussions with the two others around his alleged appreciation to one and his utmost horror with the other.
This in a nutshell is the crux of the play โฆ growing mutual dislikes whilst seeking the vestiges of a long held connection, sheering into temporary alliances of two versus one, that interchange as the rambling discussion verging on full-on battle moves around various aspects of their shared past. The above suggests the story is a tragic, hard oneโฆ but it is full of laugh out loud moments, especially with Sergeโs passive-aggressive responses, Markโs aloof insouciance and Yvanโs bumbling attempts to reconcile everything and equally bumbling almost uncontrollably through the tiniest of lifeโs challenges โฆ what DOES one do with a grape seed?
The three actors are nothing short of perfect in their roles. Sam Fynn once more shows his talent with a polished performance of Serge, full of pretentiousness (Serge, not Sam!). Ben Dalton is just exquisitely annoying as the no nonsense, brook no shit, call a spade a fucking shovel Mark. And Andrew Chapman delightfully reprises a little of his Henry Carr (Travesties, Bath Drama, October 2025) to present the troubled-waters smoothing Yvan, desperate to retain the friendsโ group as it drifts apart before his eyes.
Lauren Arena-McCann wanted to direct this show, written by Yasmina Reza since she saw it on Broadway some years ago, as its story shows how changes over time present different versions of ourselves; her touches throughout the show are clear from the clever use of threes, to building tension as the play races to its conclusion. Lauren though is not alone in bringing wonderful touches to the Rondo this week though โ set designer extraordinaire, Rich Canning has built a tour de force with those three periaktoi forming each apartmentโs rear wall. Chapeau!
It would also be remiss not to acknowledge the eponymous props that are quite literally centre stage throughout. Each apartment has a different painting on that rear wall. And each of those three paintings is a real life work of art by David Wood, at least two of which are globally unique โฆ including the very piece of ART that the play centres on. Tech as ever delivered by the faithful Alex Latham and back stage management by Connor Palmer (doubling up as assistant director) and James Dennis, costumes so subtly precise for each character by Chloe Harris.
So all that remains is report on the ending โฆ is the threesomeโs split irreconcilable? Is there a last minute reprieve for them all? Which of Yvanโs mother and step-mother will appear on the wedding invitations? Will that bottle of brandy ever run out? What has skiing got to do with paintings?
And what DO you do with a grape seed?
Ah, wellโฆ if youโve read this far and want to find out, thereโs just one way to do soโฆ Get along to the Rondo this week and see it. You wont be disappointed, as at just a hundred minutes long as a single act the pubs will still be open when you leave.
Thereโs a number of ways you can support Wiltshire & Bath Air Ambulance and raise funds for this vital charity, with many entertaining upcoming events; and here they areโฆ.
Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance Charity is on call every day for up to 19 hours, responding to an average of three incidents daily by helicopter or critical care cars. Speed is their superpower, with the helicopter able to reach anywhere in Wiltshire and Bath within 11 minutes. Your attendance and support helps make that possible.
Get ready to cheer on your chosen steeds in exciting pre-recorded races! Enjoy a social evening with friendly competition and support lifesaving work.
Join Basset Down for a night at the races! Their upcoming Race Night, The Anniversary Cup, on Friday 9th October will be a social evening packed with fun, friendly competition and the chance to win big, all in support of Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance Charity.
Cheer on your chosen steed in exciting pre-recorded races. Place your bets and test your racing instincts. Enjoy the atmosphere with tables of up to 10 guests. Entry just ยฃ5.00 per head with a fully licensed bar and fantastic company!
Firewalk! Friday 30th of October at Wiltshire & Bath Air Ambulance Airbase, Semington
Would you dare to join Wiltshire & Bath Air Ambulance at their airbase in Semington on Friday 30th of October 2026, for an unforgettable Firewalk Challenge?!
Feel the buzz, face your fears, and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush as you walk barefoot across hot embers beneath the autumn night sky, all while supporting Wiltshire & Bath Air Ambulanceโs lifesaving work. There is no training required, just a sign up fee, and they ask every participant to pledge to raise a minimum of ยฃ100.
As a charity, Wiltshire & Bath Air Ambulance receive no government funding and rely heavily on the generosity of community and events like this to continue delivering their vital services across Wiltshire, Bath and beyond. They will provide fundraising tips, ideas and support to help you smash your target!
A Night With a Pilot. Friday 13th November at The Ridgeway Barns Farm, Swindon, SN4 0EB
Supporters are invited to an exclusive dinner event with chief pilot, Matt Wilcock. A memorable evening hosted by Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance Charity in partnership with Ridgeway Barns and Wild Fork West Catering.
This exclusive event offers a unique opportunity to step behind the scenes of our lifesaving service, while enjoying exceptional hospitality in a beautiful setting. Drinks reception and canapes, followed by a two-course dinner and Q&A with chief pilot, Matt Wilcock.
Meet the people behind the missions. The highlight of the evening will be a live interview with chief pilot, Matt Wilcock, who will share first-hand insight into his role at Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance Charity. From flying lifesaving missions to working alongside their critical care crew, Matt will give guests a rare perspective on what it takes to deliver advanced medical care when every second counts.
Enjoy a relaxed drinks reception and canapes carefully prepared by Wild Fork West Catering, all set within the stunning surroundings of Ridgeway Barns.
Guests will also have the chance to take part in a charity auction, helping to raise vital funds that keep our helicopter and critical care cars ready to respond across Wiltshire and Bath.
Ticket price: ยฃ50 per person or ยฃ270 for a group of six. Book HERE. Places are limited and demand is expected to be high.
Christmas Market. Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd November. Wiltshire & Bath Air Ambulance Airbase, Semington.
The Christmas Market is returning in 2026, this time spreading the festive cheer over two whole days, Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 November!
Join them at the airbase for a magical weekend filled with local traders offering a fantastic selection of gifts, treats, and festive goodies; perfect for finding something special for family, friends, or even just a little treat for yourself!
The market runs from 11:00am to 5:00pm on both days, with plenty of seasonal delights to keep you warm, including hot drinks and mulled wine. And donโt miss our ever-popular tombola, raising funds for our charity.
All performances will take place outdoors and are subject to weather conditions. The orchestra will be unable to perform in wet weather. Saturday at 2pm โ BathTub Orchestra. Sunday at 12noon – Macapello Community Choir.
Tickets are just ยฃ2, and children under 14 go free!
The AVR Wiltshire Half Marathon returns for 2026! This event is a chip timed Road Race over a certified course, starting in Edington and taking in the beautiful villages of Steeple Ashton and Great Hinton.
The next event will take place on Sunday 29th November 2026 at 11am, the race HQ is Station Yard, Edington, Wiltshire, BA13 4NT and you can enter HERE.
Carols at Bath Abbey. Monday 7th December at Bath Abbey, Bath, BA1 1LT.
Following the success of last year’s sell-out event, Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance is delighted to bring back their ever-popular Carols in the Abbey for another unforgettable evening of festive music and celebration.
Set in the beautiful surroundings of Bath Abbey, the evening will feature traditional carols, festive music and seasonal readings.They are delighted to welcome performances from the City of Bath Male Choir and the brilliant Chloe Jordan.
There will also be festive readings from critical care crew and ambassadors, making this a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the festive season while supporting your local air ambulance charity.
The event takes place on Monday 7 December, with doors opening at 6.30pm for a 7.30pm start.
Ticket price incl. booking fee: ยฃ15.72 – ยฃ36.68. From HERE.
Set in the beautiful surroundings of Marlborough College Chapel, the evening will feature traditional carols, festive music and seasonal readings. They are delighted to welcome a special performance from the brilliant Chloe Jordan, and the Swindon Choral Society.
There will also be festive readings from critical care crew and ambassadors, making this a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the festive season while supporting your local air ambulance charity.
The event takes place on Friday 18 December, with doors opening at 6.15pm for a 7pm start. Tickets ยฃ20.96 HERE.
There are also regular Business Club Networking events at the airbase, for more info click HERE.
Witnessed amazing fireworks for Confetti Battle in Devizes, and I hopped eastwards to that sacred hippy haven in the Pewsey Vale, The Barge at HoneyStreet;โฆ
As youโre probably aware, because thereโs been lots of people kicking up a scene, Wiltshire Councilโs recycling centre booking system being trialled at Devizes, Lowerโฆ
Immediately after the weekend which saw press photographers ejected, so they could savagely beat women at the Birmingham Reform conference, as if someone threw aโฆ
Tributes to Chippenham’sย community activist, poet, actor, and event compere Brian Reid poured onto social media today, as the sad news of his passing spreadsโฆโฆ
Iโve found myself sympathising about post-punk recently, how they scrambled around in the dark somewhat, taking pot shots at reggae, claiming a โnew wave,โ orโฆ
Singers and players of instruments of The Southwest assembled for an album celebrating the ninetieth anniversary since Emperor Haile Selassie I was exiled to England,โฆ
I arrived in Rye as a town crier with two months in the job. I left as the winner of the 73rd National Town Criersโ Championship, still slightly stunned and with a new title to consider: Disney Dowager.
My footwear may have added to the title. I had chosen high-heeled, green, glittery boots. The cobbles soon made me question that decision, but the compliments from women around my age made the wobbling worthwhile. One woman told me I was like a Disney princess for older women. โDisney Dowager?โ I suggested, she laughed and said “Disney Queen!”… Iโll take either.
My Glittery Green Boots
Iโve been thinking a lot about my role and what it means to both me and the community, I want to respect the past but also with an eye to the future I donโt wish to just be a tourist attraction I want to effect change and inspire both young girls and older women like me. I want older women to know they can still take up space, make themselves heard and refuse to become invisible. Being Devizesโ first female Town Crier is one way I can do that, preferably in glittery boots no matter how much they hurt!
As well as my flashy footwear my beautiful bespoke nature inspired tricorn By Nellie Pitts of The Hatstand Millinery also made it’s first appearance.
My Bespoke Tricorn (Photo (C) Tony Ham 2026)
My handsome consort and husband, Moray Macdonald, deserves special mention. He held my hand as I negotiated the cobbles, while also braving the peal of hand bells and the drums despite the risk of aggravating his tinnitus. He is always a brilliant support to me and Iโm so grateful for that.
My Consort Moray Macdonald Watches me Cry (Photo (C) KT Bruce)
The competition took place in the Gun Gardens beneath Ryeโs ancient Ypres Tower. I was one of only three women among the 15 criers. Our task was to give two cries, a home cry and a themed cry. The three “OYEZ! ” and “GOD SAVE THE KING!” are an obligatory part of the 120-word limit.
My Home Cry
For the Home Cry, I had the easy task of celebrating Devizes. Rye and Devizes turned out to have some things in common: both are hilltop towns with a history of smugglers. Rye had its smugglers; Devizes has the Moonrakers, who, as we know, were caught raking out contraband booze by the excisemen so pretended to be stupid yokels who had mistaken the moonโs reflection for a giant cheese which they were trying to retrieve!
The judging considered volume, clarity, diction, content and inflection: not simply how loudly you can call, but how clearly and expressively you can make a cry land. After lunch at the famous Mermaid Inn, we processed back to the gardens for a fun โHave a Goโ section, where kids and members of the public were allowed to try and ring a bell and shout OYEZ!
Then came the final themed cry, โServiceโ. I was glad to include a thank you to the RNLI. With Rye so close to the sea, it felt an especially fitting place to recognise those who risk their lives to help others.
As the result were read out, I had convinced myself I wasnโt going to win, I was up against some very experienced and talented criers many of whom had won a few times including Calneโs Town Crier Mark Wylie . So, you can imagine my ‘flab’ was very much ‘ghasted’ when my name was called out, ( I may have issued an expletive!). To win against such strong competition, particularly after such a short time in the job, felt like a huge achievement. The other criers could have made a newcomer feel out of her depth; instead, they were warm, kind and encouraging throughout. I felt welcomed by them from the start.
Previous Winner Town Crier of Calne, Mark Wylie
My thanks go to Paul Edward Goring and his deputy Town Crier, Annabelle Ansell, who also did a brilliant job as MCs throughout the day, their throats must have been shredded! Thanks also to Rye Town Council; and to photographers KT and Martin Bruce and Tony Ham for capturing the weekend.
Town Crier Of Rye Paul Edward Goring Giving us a Ghost Tour
Devizes has a special place in the story of the national championship. On 23 February 1912, the townโs Market Place hosted the first Town Criersโ Championship of Great Britain. It was known as the โBattle of the Bellmenโ, after Billy Law, Horshamโs town crier, challenged criers from across the country to test their voices. Thousands turned out to watch, and Law won the title, along with a championship bell and a ยฃ5 prize.
Billy Law Winner of the First Town Crier Competition Held in Devizes in 1912
More than a century later, I am proud to add my voice to that history and represent Devizes. I hope the championship returns one day, with the Market Place filled again with criers, bells and crowds celebrating the character and history of our varied towns. The โBattle of the Bellmenโ would sound rather different now: nearly a third of the around 250 UK town criers are women, including Marlborough Town crier Emma Kimber, so there would be plenty of bell women among the voices ringing out across Devizes.
All The Town Criers and Consorts (Photo (c) Tony Ham 2026)
Oh and before you ask yes of course, I took my trophy to bed!
Okay, that’s enough now! The social media presence of Wiltshire Museum in Devizes has shot from zero to hero. Vlogs of staff dancing in period clothing, creating street art, and generally enjoying themselves far too much! When did working at a museum look so much fun, unless you’re Ben Stiller?! This all came to anโฆ
by Ian Diddams images by Wharf Theatre An artist expresses their personal thoughts. The rich and powerful use their positions to shut that expression down and remove the artist. Yet the act of suppression feeds a wider interest in the subject being suppressed. Macklemore, Ed Sheeran and venue owners? Or a 1980s play about aโฆ
Our trustworthy Gazelle & Herod reported today that โdisgracefulโ behaviour in Devizes Market Place has elevated into a dental issueโฆ. Publishing an article which states the police are frustrated by the issue, they quote an Inspector, who said The Public Spaces Protection Order โhas given them certain useful powers, but lacks teeth, and has yetโฆ
Cast your minds back around about a month and you may recall a Devizine preview of โPlayhouse Creaturesโ, performed by โ3rd Third Theatreโ at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes.
That preview covers the basic premise and storyline of the play, and its societal equivalences to modern society. Its a rags-to-riches, riches-to-rags, rags-to-rags and riches-to-nothing story of five women who in their pursuits of idolatry, social climbing and wealth, and escaping the oppression of men, all in their own way achieve their aims โ mainly โ but are still left oppressed by the patriarchy.
Doll Common retains a semblance of normality but as a drudge to everybody โ including other women โ she neither improves nor worsens her lot. Rebecca Marshall full of confidence and panache during the story finally sees herself ruined by slander at the hands of the nobility โ who also do the dirty on Elizabeth Farleigh who from lofty pretensions , airs and graces, descends to the gutter, abandoned. Nell Gwynn (yes โ THAT Nell Gwynn) in many ways truly โmakes itโ โ but at the cost of abandoning any independence and thoughts of fulfilling her dreams. And finally there is the matriarch of the group, Mary Betterton, who crashes from doyen of the theatre to a housewife, rejected in her middle age by her most dearest.
Director Debby Wilkinson in this debut performance for her new theatre company โ3rd Third Theatreโ has created a black box presentation focussing all attention on the actors, the characters and the story. It’s stunningly effective โ less is more as they say โ as with subtle lighting, and sound alone the action is embellished in this captivating and intimate portrayal of womenโs experiences across all time.
Her cast is simply sublime; every member plays their role to the utmost excellence. In no particular order as they are all equally wonderful, Louise Peak drudges through Dollโs interactions with not a little humour subtly delivered as she plays her cynical underdog role. Sophie Kerr as Elizabeth Farleigh is cool and classy and haughty until undone and her transformation to a guttersnipe is seamless.
Wendy Dophiede as Mary Betterton portrays Maryโs self assured, slightly unworldly, diva drifting into obscurity, disbelief and self doubt smoothly, from self assurance to horror at her demise. Grace Sheridan captures the cheeky London orange seller, Nell Gwynn, whose social climbing reached the highest ranks of the land whilst retaining her charm and fun, and that twinkle in her eye, later resigned to her fate as a kept women to the King. Freddie Underwood completes the cast with her stunning portrayal of Rebecca Marshall, sassy, fun loving but ultimately ruined. A true cast of cohesiveness, bringing April de Angelisโ play to life.
Tickets for โPlayhouse Creaturesโ, October 8th – 10th at the Wharf Theatre are available at
Yeah I know, right, itโs come up on us rather unexpectedly, this Festival of Discovery thing, hasnโt it?! Whatโs itโs all about then, I hear you ask. With DOCA busy with the hugely successful Confetti Battle and Colour Rush, theyโve not had time to update their website yet, so hereโs what we know so far, and how Devizine got involved; letโs discover what we can and The Festival of Discovery!
The Festival of Discovery is a new free weekend festival for Devizes, organised by DOCA. It is happening across the weekend of Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th October. The festival will consist of three zones. Each zone is closed to traffic and is curated with wonderful happenings for you to explore, all connecting with their theme. Some performers will be travelling between zones. โMake sure you explore all of them,โ DOCA says, โthere is something for everyone in each zone!โ
One zone then, is at The Market Place and is labelled โDiscover Community.โ This is the place to sit, eat, listen to music, watch shows, make something in a workshop and make new friends.
The second zone will be at The Brittox, โDiscover Nature.โ Swap, learn, repair, watch nature-inspired shows, check out our willow installations, make a dandelion flower and ride on the Bewonderment Machine. Think about how we can help and appreciate the nature that is all around us. In this nature zone, a huge willow structure will weave its way through the Brittox, transforming the townโs main shopping street into a unique woodland-inspired walk.
The third zone is in Sidmouth Street, the Youth and Community Zones; discover young perspectives. โIf you are or have ever been young,โ DOCA says, โyouโll enjoy this zone!โ There are games, inflatables, and a mini-stage for talented young musicians; the latter is where Devizine comes in, and the bit I want to tell you most about, despite the fact that I’m neither young nor talented!
Iโm delighted DOCA has asked me to host this stage, and with it Iโm bringing some friends along; only the finest lineup of youthful talent in Wiltshire! The focus is on acoustic and singer-songwriters aged from 13 to 23, but there will be cover artists too, a couple of duos, and we will give them the freedom to perform what they wish.
So, we will be in Albion Place at Sidmouth Street from 11:30am to 5:30pm both days, please, join us, and support these incredible young artists. Do not assume Sunday is going to be the lesser day, it seriously is not. Iโve had such a huge response to this, Iโve been crazy busy trying to organise it, and squeeze everyone in. Our grand finales on both Saturday and Sunday will blow your mind! And, if youโre thinking, โitโs just a bunch of kidsโ you are still welcome, because you will be the most surprised!
So, in order of appearance from 11:30 till 5:30, we present, on the Devizine Launchpad!ย
Saturday: Stan Jenkins, Sienna Wileman, Braydon-Lee Jones, Jodie Lauren, Ed Dowdeswell, Rosie Jay, Emelia Houchin, Meg Hoy.
On Sunday we have Tamzin Antignani, Lois Millington, Indigo Avenue, Alfie Crinion, Orla and Jack, Seren Alyssa, Poppy Rose and Ruby Darbyshire.
Itโs going to be amazing, I’m more excited than they are! And I look forward to seeing you all there! Here’s some teasers…..
There’s musical acts which play united on equal pegging, and then there’s those which follow the lead of a virtuoso. Be it guitar, like Hendrix, the poetry of Dylan, or trumpet like Miles Davis, any specific field of expertise, but none are so emotively poignant as the human voiceโฆ.
It would be unfair on anyone to compare their vocals with Bristol-based singer-songwriter, Lady Nade; I have to save this for the likes of Anita Bakerโs rich phrasing and control, the gospel roots of Aretha Franklinโs, and, particularly, the smoky contralto of Nina Simone. Lady Nade has a new album, Indentity, out tomorrow, Friday 2nd October, a deeply personal album of self-discovery, self-acceptance and the courage to show the world who you truly are; it does, sublimely.
The more I immerse myself into this album, the more intricate details I discover. Lucky I donโt give star ratings out of ten because there arenโt enough in the galaxy to award this treasure trove with what it deserves!
We first reviewed a Lady Nade album back in 2021, Willing, where it was heavy with nods towards country influences, and I waffled about Ray Charlesโ affection for the genre. This time, with only subtle sprinkles of roots, more of jazz and blues, the concentration though is soul. This lady takes on every subgenre of soul, track by track, and even with the blending of other styles, by the meaning of these ingeniously penned songs and Ladyโs extensive vocal range giving them emotive deliveries, they win every time.
Other than the general theme of courage and self-acceptance, thereโs no precise running concept through the album; it is a collection of independent songs, where each holds its own narrative and prose; often of transformation, hope or resilience, but each one amazing within its own category.
โIdentity exists because of the love that surrounds me,โ Lady Nade says of the album. โI hope these songs offer a safe space for anyone who has ever felt they had to hide parts of themselves to belong. We all deserve to be seen, heard and celebrated for who we are. This album is a reflection of what it means to be human, and to stand in our own truth.โ
Image: Arthur Reneฬ Walwin
If thereโs an objective embedded into the album, itโs most prominent with the metaphoric penultimate song, Masks, a lounge jazz earworm which really brings the essence of Lady Nadeโs homage to Nina Simone. Where it is that the album is honest reflection, and effectively โunmasksโ the Lady behind, the summary is in the conclusion and the last single to be released from the album, Bloom; the empowering cure, an uplifting motive, akin to Heather Smallโs Proud, but so much more delicate and subtle, itโs awe-inspiring.
The theme of strength above the odds kicks in with the title track at the opening, and itโs a funky introduction. Funk makes a huge return halfway through with the righteous Stand, to make Marva Whitney blush. But the prospective love single One of Us comes second, with these subtle roots elements, and an irresistible singalong chorus rich with upbeat pop commercial viability; whoa, thereโs a lot going on with this Identity, but as with any, theyโre multi-layered.
With a beautiful acoustic guitar riff, Rainbow, brings the uplifting sentiment into play with the most prominent nod to folk roots. And while thereโs delightful ballads like Powerless, thereโs Sober, the doo-wop inspired catchy little handclapping beauty that it is.
The most vivid in subject is Smoke & Mirrors, and undoubtedly of the least abstract or of personal poignancy. Itโs a jazzy homage to Hattie McDaniel, telling the story of Georgiaโs racial segregation causing her to be banned from 1939โs Gone with the Wind premiere, and even at the Oscar ceremony in Los Angeles, where she was required to sit at a segregated table away from the rest of the film’s white cast and crew.
The remaining songs, though, are more personal, and open to the listenerโs reflections and interpretations, and with a voice like Lady Nadeโs, one which Cerys Matthews of BBC Radio 6 Music describes as โa pure voice that gets stuck in your mind,โ it is impossible not be immersed in this wonderful album.
Identity is out on the 2nd October 2026. Lady Nade will celebrate the release of Identity with a UK headline tour running from Friday 6th to Saturday 21st November 2026. If you recall, you lovely local people, Lady Nade did bless Devizes Arts Festival, it was one my all time favourite gigs in Devizes.
Tomorrow, Friday 2nd October, sees a new single from Chippenham indie folk singer-songwriter Meg Hoy, or M3G, and it’s called My Riverโฆ..
If you deem songwriters using rivers as metaphors as a bit clichรฉ these days, from Springsteen’s safety net for the burdens of youthful relationships, or Joni Mitchell’s desperate escapism, to Billy Joelโs spiritual quest, or Neil Young’s haunting impulsive act, I’d nod, and tend to agree…but…
Rivers often, and arguably more simply, represent the relentless passage of time, a comforting escape from relationship issues, or bold life or spiritual journeys. I’ve expressed the originalityย in past reviews of Meg’s songs, and how she angles subjects with breathtaking honesty, and completely unique prose. My River is the perfect example, for here’s a commonly used subject, but Meg uses the river more as emotional balance; a kind of psychological therapeutic acupuncture.
โThe timeless presence of my river helps me find perspective through my pain,โ she said, explaining โI grew up on and around the River Avon, it has been a constant in my life, something I can always rely on to be there.โ
โAnother constant over the past seven years has been my pains and aches throughout my body. I wrote this song as I was being diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. Coming to terms with the fact that there is nothing physically causing all of my pain and that it would be around for the rest of my life was something I did not want to do. But as my pain will continue, so will the river that I love.โ
Perhaps the most appropriate song about rivers to compare this by composition to, is The Byrds, Ballad of Easy Rider, which Dylan famously scribbled the chorus to on a napkin for the director, Peter Fonda, because both flow like rivers.
Acoustic for a minute, until subtle layers of chanting develop, and the whole composition of Meg’s river themed song builds in intensity to a climax of ultimate expression, just how a river builds its flow to an estuary. My River presents Meg vocally more mature than anything past. The effect is spellbinding.
โThe name ‘Avon’ comes a Celtic word used thousands of years ago to mean river,โ Meg said, โso the River Avon literally means the River River!โ
Equally this song is so intensely beautiful, it should be named twice!
