2025 on Devizine; Review of the Year; Part 1, Jan-June

If past years seem to be racing by me on roller-skates, now they’re in Formula 1 cars! 2025, in a word, was “average,” though the Devizine annual stats fell for a second year, at 6% lower than 2024; you lot still here?!

I’m not concerned about that, you filthy traitors; you’ve been digesting the clickbait of that Gazelle & Herod again, haven’t you?!! Ah, truth is I have been staying home, hibernating a lot like a lightweight couch potato; probably an age thing, most likely a financial thing too; we’ve got hyperinflation to make Robert Mugabe envious. But we keep a stiff upper lip as the world plummets into chaos, our little corner of it remains a pretty nice place to live (if a bit Tory,) where you can block pavements with hoarding or nick a cardboard sheep from a church and get away with it. None of which we are here to highlight, we focus on the best bits, and slag off the worst with a sprinkling of satire; if you don’t like it, you know where to go!

Hits took a hit because I bit my tongue on many local political or social issues this year, to concentrate more on arts and entertainment, but folk love a good shit stir rather than being told about some talented locals doing good. Plus, I’m sick to the back teeth with any dependence on Facebook shares, it’s become a toxic playground for so-called adults and AI bots pretending to be human to boost propaganda. I think I’m going to be one of those smiling insanely old men, content to feed the ducks in the park, rather than ranting at anyone younger than me within range, but I’ve the right to change my mind on this!

They also took a hit because I’ve been actively engaged in two fantastic major events, RowdeFest and The Wiltshire Music Awards. The latter in particular used up much of my time, but hey, I think they were worth it. The Awards really brought together a wealth of people involved in the Wiltshire music scene, caused me to wear a suit, and we hope to build on this with future years.

The other contributing factor to the downfall of hits to the website might have been me writing a new book, something I rarely get the time for, but was certain I wanted it published by Christmas. I made that deadline and Murder at the Scribbling Horse is officially out; you read it yet? No, didn’t think so!

But lots more happened in 2025, and those we featured are briefed below; we could’ve done more but I think we put out a lot of content; you have to give me some time to play pointless block puzzle games on my phone. Thank you to all our contributors, Ian, Andy, Lois and the few guest writers who have submitted this year. We always need more writers to make this as comprehensive as possible; it is about as flexible as it can possibly be, you can be a fruitcake, we don’t mind, so do get in touch if you can help.

Please continue to support us, we thank you all for your dedication to Devizine; here’s to 2026; try best to avoid the fascist division, millionaires triggered by being disallowed to rip wild animals to death, the US or Russian bombs heading our way, the complete disregard for funding environmental projects while they spend billions fighting for the last scraps of oil, any world leader kidnapping, painting roundabouts, and the usage of anti-terror laws to arrest pensioners peacefully campaigning against genocide.

Just follow us instead, enjoying a pint in a pub and listening to live music, played by real people, focus on youth projects rather than fables of hooliganism, focus on talented individuals doing good rather than bitter clickbait and national headlines, and be here, in the warm and truth, with Devizine; we tell it like it is, and don’t purvey bullshit!

January

Just as this year starts with a review of the last, so did 2025, but not before I took a visit to the Swindon Story Shed. Forestry England invited dog walkers to Nightingale Wood, apparently to celebrate Walk Your Dog Month; surely every month is walk your dog month?! The second feature film for director Keith Wilhelm Kopp and writer Laurence Guy, First Christmas entered development. We covered how My Dad’s Bigger Than Your Dad Festival raised £11,500 for Prospect Hospice, and there’s more….

Jamsters began at Devizes Southgate, an initiative to provide a Friday night platform for loose groupings and associations created at their regular jam sessions each Wednesday. We announced The Beat were to headline Devizes Scooter Rally, that Nick Hodgson formerly of the Kaiser Chiefs’ new band, Everyone Says Hi had an instore at Marlborough’s Sound Knowledge, and we unfortunately said goodbye to the now disbanded People Like Us; sorely missed.

We had new singles from Nothing Rhymes With Orange, a new album from Illingworth, and fuller sessions from Kaya Street. Andy reviewed the first Devizes International Blues Festival, Ian covered Jerusalem at the Mission Theatre, and Veronica’s Room at The Wharf Theatre.

We previewed OakFest at the Royal Oak in Pewsey, La Belle Hélène, White Horse Opera’s Debut at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes Musical Theatre’s Beauty & The Beast, Henge at The Cheese & Grain, and Bradford-on-Avon Green Man Festival which unfortunately this year is in jeopardy, and we welcomed Caffe Vialottie to Devizes, our most popular article of the year.

February

It may be topical now, but we’ve always been supporting the hunting ban, and in February reported how Beaufort Hunters attacked Wiltshire Hunt Sabs’ drone. We sadly confirmed Devizes Street Festival was cancelled for the second year in a row, and The Emporium in Devizes was to close, but Devizes would get a new youth centre.

Previews included, Marlborough School of Languages’ Summer Fiesta, Jazz Sabbath at the Corn Exchange. We announced The Brand New Heavies were to headline Minety, tickets for DOCA’s Winter Ales were running out, and that I was to organise the music for Rowdefest in May, probably my favourite memory of 2025.

We featured Melksham’s teen band Between the Lines, reviewed JP Oldfield’s debut EP Bouffon, Jamie Hawkins’ short film Teeth, and new singles from I See Orange and Sam Bishop. Swinterfest broke me out of my hibernation, and I also got out to see the fantastic Static Moves at the Three Crowns, plus Cephid’s Sparks in the Darkness at The Rondo, which was mindblowing!

March

We announced that Devizes auctioneers Henry Aldridge & Son were relocating to the Old Emporium, Soupchick was to take over The Hillworth Park Cafe, that after the fire in Northgate Street Devizes Kebab Van successfully relocated to Folly Road, that Devizes was to have a new festival, Park Farm Festival, and of course the very first Wiltshire Music Awards.

We featured the Belladonna Treatment, had a wonderful local reflection on the Trump & Zelenskiy meeting from a Ukrainian living in Wiltshire, and it was one of my all-time favourite interviews with eighties legend Owen Paul ahead of a Devizes gig.

We reviewed The Killer & The Catalyst, Devizes author Dave McKenna’s novelette, Gecko’s new album, and singles by Chloe Hepburn and George Wilding.

Previewed Devizes Arts Festival, Exchange Comedy in Devizes, Swindon Palestine Solidarity’s Charity Iftar, CUDS’ Devizes Town Litter Pick for GB Spring Clean, and Hells Bells AC/DC tribute coming to Devizes! We listed the results of Salisbury Music Awards.

I managed to make it out to see The Devil’s Doorbell and JP Oldfield at the Cellar Bar, Ruby Darbyshire at the Southgate, and Cracked Machine with Tom Harris in support, too. Ian gave us Blood Brothers at The Mission Theatre and Flatpack at The Rondo, and Pip Aldridge reviewed our Fulltone Orchestra at Tewkesbury Abbey.

I ranted on the state of the roads, and for fun ran a Take Our Wiltshire Pothole or Moon Crater Quiz Challenge!!

April

Ah, All Fools Day, a golden opportunity for us, in which last year we told the fib that funk godfather George Clinton was exiled to the Wiltshire village of Urchfont, created funk music there and it was covered up by their parish council! You might assume it was hardly viable, but some fell for it, and messaged in their outraged reports of “fake news!”

We looked into DOCA’s new youth initiative Yea Devizes, and while we published our usual extensive list of Easter holiday activities, we also previewed DOCA’s Junk Street drumming workshop.

I visited The Hillworth Park Cafe, where Soupchick took over, hailed Devizes DJ Greg Spencer, the creator of Palooza house nights, who made the prestigious bill of Fatboy Slim’s All Back to Minehead festival, and reviewed the now sadly defunct No Alarms No Devizes playing at the Three Crowns. Discovered Fran Daisy at Swindon’s Plough, and Henge at the Cheese & Grain was a high contender for my gig of the year; out of this world!

We had a guest review from Melissa Loveday on Devizes Music Academy’s Something About Jamie, which though I’m sorry to have missed, I did catch them playing it out at FullTone Festival in the summer. I did attend Devizes Musical Theatre’s Beauty & the Beast at Dauntsey’s School and the opening of Un/Common People, Folk Culture in Wessex, a fascinating exhibition at Wiltshire Museum.

Reviewed Hannah Rose Platt’s album Fragile Creatures, probably the best album we covered last year. The website for Wiltshire Music Awards went live and people held on to cast their votes in May.

We exposed Reform candidate Calne Violette Simpson for her Facebook profile picture showing her hunting antelope in South Africa, and Devizes South Conservative candidate Sarah Batchelor, who committed election fraud, up and left with her tail between her legs and almost running Bishops Canning’s Crown into the ground. Thankfully it seems the new owners are turning it around and recreating the village hub it once was.

May

I was honoured and delighted to organise the music for our village fete, which has in the last few years been run by a lovely independent committee, safe from a questionable parish council. It was a wonderful sunny day and the highlight of my year. I called in some favours and presented an amazing lineup for a free fete, featuring, in order of appearance, The Jubilee Morris Dancers, Andrew Hurst who brought bassist Lucianne Worthy with him, Talk in Code, The Sarah C Ryan Band, Thieves, and Burn The Midnight Oil. Being it was the last day of the month, I didn’t write about it until June.

I paid a Sunday afternoon visit to Devizes amazing record shop Vinyl Realm, when Deadlight Dance were attacked by wasps and still managed an amazing unplugged acoustic set. Ben Niamor reviewed Jake Martin at Swindon’s Castle with SOP, and Ian gave us his views on Sweeney Todd at St. Augustine’s Catholic College in Trowbridge, and the Diary of Anne Frank at The Wharf Theatre in Devizes, which was so good I had to go myself. Lois covered newcomers Kingston Media’s Bands at the Bridge in Horton.

I previewed the Bradford-on-Avon Live Music Festival, despite it clashing with our Rowdefest! Also, Ruby Darbyshire who performed at Silverwood School’s open evening. Andy provided a preview of Chippenham Folk Festival, and Lois provided us with previews of Australian Folk singer Ernest Aines at Swindon’s Deanery Theatre and David Olusoga at the Cheese & Grain.

Announced the opening of voting for Wiltshire Music Awards, that Devizes-based The Big Sound Choir was to perform with Aled Jones at St George’s in Bristol, and that Bird is The Word were taking over music organisation at Bradford-on-Avon’s Boathouse.

We featured how Lucas Hardy was collaborating with Rosie Jay, and Frome’s James Hollingsworth, who was bringing his solo recreation of Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here album to the Devizes Southgate and elsewhere, and reviewed his album with Griffiths, Lost in the Winds of Time.

I reviewed Clock Radio’s album Turfing out the Maniacs, Ruzz Guitar’s Between Two Worlds album, Playing Solitaire; Phil Cooper’s first solo album for five years, Thieves’ debut EP, a new single from George Wilding, and one from Auralcandy featuring vocals from Sienna Wileman. A feature of a Melksham marketing expert launching AI training courses was met with controversy, yeah, I get that!

June

If we were all busy with the Devizes Arts Festival, we were previwing summer events like a new festival for Devizes, Park Farm, clashing with an amazing day at the Three Crowns for an air ambulance fundraiser, and I finalyy got over my hangover and ego, and gave coverage of Rowdefest; highlight of my year!

Andy reviewed White Horse Opera’s Cosi Fan Tutte and The Lost Trades at the Piggybank, Ian did The Mikado at the Mission, The Taming of the Shrew at the Rondo, and of course we all did our bit for the Devizes Arts Festival. Andy also covered an extensive weekend when The Lions were on the Green in Devizes, we had Crammer Watch Day too, and Devizes Arts Festival did a fringe gig at the British Lion; summer lovin’. The highlight of this had to be Where’s the Cat, the Wharf Theatre’s writing group’s hilarious reenactment of the Moonrakers fable at the Crammer, which I felt obliged to cover too.

Eddie and I were guests on Peggy-Sue’s Don’t Stop the Music show on Swindon 105.5, chatting about the awards. We met Henry the chocolate duck raising funds for cystic fibrosis at HollyChocs, previewed Supergrass headlining Frome Festival, a genderqueered Shakespearean performance at Bath’s Rondo, and Swindon Palestine Solidarity events. Lois did Idles at Bristol’s Block Party.

I reviewed The Hotcakes of Wildfire’s album Shoes & Acid, ranted on vocal minorities triggered by events of cultural diversity, and did a No Surprises column promising to return the feature, but promises are made to be broken! There’s simply too much to whinge about, and for my health, I need to see the glass half-full.

That’s all for now, folks. Do not fear, it’s still summer in our minds, and we’ll kick off in July for the second part. I know, our goldfish attention spans cannot take in a whole year in one article, what with so much brilliant stuff which happened over the year, so come back when I’ve officially emptied the Quality Street tin and completed the last half of this review of 2025; but I must say, I think the first half was better!!

Awesome! Talk in Code Immortalised as Lego Minifigures!

Ah, let’s talk about Talk in Code one more time this year, because we’re secret Talkers here, and everything has been awesome this year for them, but now they’re being immortalised as Lego minifigures!

Surely, the piece of resistance of local merch, it doesn’t get better than this! Lego minifigures have become something of a collectors item over the years, and the finest local indie popsters have a Lego inspired fan reward scheme they’re calling TICBRIX; genuine awesomeness!

Now open, all you’ve got to do is attend their gigs, which is a pleasure in itself, collect stamps on a loyalty card, and collect the band figures. Pick up the cards at the merch desk at any show, get it stamped, and after every two Talk in Code shows, you can claim your FREE minifigure and badge from the merch desk.

With four members in the band, it’s going to take you eight shows to complete your collection, but that’s not all. At the halfway point, you’ll be eligible for a bespoke, Lego stage set for them to all play on, complete with a bass guitar, extra guitar, drumsticks and even a Snedds’ luxury beard upgrade!

Personally, I feel inclined to hotfoot it up the loft to find my bricks and build a spaceship for them to gig on because they’re out of this world! Spaceship!!!!

Some early 2026 performances from the guys include 17th Jan at The Kings Arms in Amesbury and also at Devizes Winter of Festive Ales at The Corn Exchange on 28th February. On the 28th of March, there’s a Talkers Show by personal invite only at The Hop in Swindon. Join the Talkers WhatsApp group to get in on that and be in the know of other gigs by texting ‘add me’ with your first name to 07725 138077. All welcome unless you’re from the planet Duplo!

Devizes Assize Court Saved; A New Home for Wiltshire Museum

This afternoon I find myself contemplating what the future holds for historical discovery and learning for all ages, fun and educational exhibits and events in Wiltshire; and it looks positive! Devizes is blessed to have Wiltshire Museum already, but the future looks even better, the future is…. Assizes!

Wiltshire Museum announced today, The National Lottery Heritage Fund has awarded £8.5 million towards the £14.8 million Assizes for Devizes project to transform the derelict Assize Court building into a spectacular new home for the Museum. Derelict for decades, the once huge court house of architectural distinction, on the Heritage At Risk register, The Assize Court has been a sour issue for too long, and in its current condition is sadly an eyesore. The project will restore its historic features, and breathe new life into the building; Wiltshire Museum and in turn, Devizes will thrive.

Since 1874 The Wiltshire Museum has been delighting visitors at Long Street in Devizes, and is home to nationally important designated collections, including stunning treasures from the Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site landscape. It also hosts many exhibits, educational events and lectures for all ages, children’s craft workshops and so much more.

Director of Wiltshire Museum David Dawson said, “we are delighted that the Heritage Fund has demonstrated its confidence in our plans to transform the former Devizes Assize Court into the new home for a reimagined Wiltshire Museum. At last we will be able to give the museum’s internationally significant collections a fitting home, while rescuing an important at-risk listed building and providing a focal point for town centre renewal. We are grateful to National Lottery players, our loyal members and our other funders, existing and future, for their commitment and support.”

Peter Troughton, CVO CBE, Chair of Devizes Assize Court Trust, which initially saved the building by purchasing it in 2018 with the support of generous donors, said, “the National Lottery Heritage Fund award to the Wiltshire Museum is fantastic news! It will transform the museum, save the historic Assize Court building and give the people of Devizes a community hub like no other. It will be an enormous help to the campaign to achieve the vision for the award-winning museum, already supported by the town, Wiltshire County Council and leading charitable foundations.”

Read More HERE

“Larkin with Women” at the Mission Theatre, Bath, November 25th-29th November.

by Ian Diddams
images by Ian Diddams, Mike Stephens and Next Stage

Ask people what they know about Philip Larkin, and the general best response may well be “a poet”. They may even know he was a librarian at the University of Hull. Some may even know he coined a phrase concerning the effect of one’s parents upon one – a rather rude quote, far too rude to be spelt out here in Devizine obviously. What they – or you – may not know though is that he had thirty plus years polyamorous… arrangements… with three women none of whom were overjoyed at sharing him but couldn’t let him go. Or at least, that is the wonderful picture painted by playwright Ben Brown in his play “Larkin with Women” which Next Stage Theatre Company are performing this week at the Mission Theatre, Bath.

This is a sumptuous work,. Deliciously delivered in a simple in the round setting of office, flats and a weekend cottage with an equally delightful sound track to set it all off. The plot runs through Larkin’s life with his amours Monica a long standing girlfriend and English lecturer, Maeve who comes to work at the library he runs, and Betty his secretary. His persona is of a sharp witted, pithy remarked but not uncaring man, his dialogue stuffed full of ironic responses and jokes. Yet he is egocentric at times seemingly oblivious to his devotees’ desire for monogamy, or at least uncaring, with his rejection of marriage as an institution. This especially causes a barrier with Maeve who as a strict Catholic cannot agree to sex outside marriage and they carry out their unconsummated affair for over a decade until the inevitable happens, Maeve is distraught, and Larkin responds with “You’re forty-six years old. Its not as if you can hang on to it for ever”. Monica is the closest of the three to Larkin’s approach to love but is jealous of the others’ involvements. Betty is last to fall for him and she too wishes him to herself.

The play draws to the obvious conclusion as Larkin’s life ends at the age he prophesied, his three partners in life visiting him for what may be a last time. Monica has the most heart wrenching line in the play as she answers a question posed by Larkin as he approaches death – as an audience we can see the answer coming, but when it does it is delivered with such great timing, and tenderness that it still brings forth an immediate emotion and reaction.

The cast are sublime, each playing their part superbly to eke out each character’s nuances and foibles. Tania Lyons as Monica, Antonia White as Maeve and Stephanie Hunt as Betty create three distinctly different women… Betty caring, Maeve desperate for marriage, Monica devoted. Brian Hudd fulfils the role of Larkin with panache and even brilliance. Mannerisms, delivery, aura… if this is not how Larkin really was, then he should have been Brian’s portrayal.

A simple set, a gorgeous playlist, subtle yet engaging tech and period clothing throughout from Kris Nuttall, Andy Punt, Vanessa Bishop and Ann Ellison – who also directed this wonderful piece of theatre, more than ably assisted by Andrew Ellison as Stage Manager.

Ben Brown the writer in the program notes is quoted as saying “there is a fine line sometimes between humour and irony”. He is spot on of course, but I’d go one further and suggest there is a fine line between irony and pathos… and Ben delivers that second fine line absolutely perfectly, in this absolutely perfect play. Next Stage have dedicated this performance run to the real life Betty Mackereth, who died this week.

“Larkin with Women” is playing at the Mission Theatre, Bath, until Saturday November 29th November at 1930 each evening, tickets from the theatre itself or from
https://www.missiontheatre.co.uk/whats-on/2025/larkin-with-women

Devizes Winter Festival This Friday and More!

Who’s ready for walking in the winter wonderland?! Devizes sets to magically transform into a winter wonderland this Friday when The Winter Festival and Lantern Parade opens in the Market Place; excited?! Well, I say magically, it actually takes a lot of hard work to put on; thank you to DOCA and all the volunteers. A spokesperson for DOCA was confident things were all good last week, and was only worried about the weather forecast…..

At present my thoroughly unreliable weather app suggests a 43% chance of rain, but keep your glass of mulled wine half full at least, that’s considerably less than 50%, and going on current climate, the rain is sporadic and light. DOCA promises the festival to be “our most enchanting yet, with a full day and evening of festivities, creative workshops, stunning street performances, and a mesmerizing lantern parade.” Looking into it with a bit more detail and including everything else going on might yet put me on the good list!

The grand finale, the Lantern Parade & Fireworks details firstly. Father Christmas will be making a special appearance at St. John’s Churchyard from 5:30pm to 6:10pm. At 6pm the parade gathers at St. John’s Church Gate. 6:15pm the parade starts, winding through the town centre. 7pm is the Light Switch-On at The Market Place. 7:05pm there will be silent fireworks, best viewed from The Market Place; I’ve not seen silent fireworks before, certainly not heard them!

As is tradition, Devizes Town Band will entertain while the Market Place will be alive with market stalls, tasty tucker and drinks, and shopping opportunities. The Makery Market will be showcasing unique, handmade treasures from local crafters and makers from 12 noon to 8:30pm Friday, and from 11am to 6pm on Saturday, at the Corn Exchange.

The beloved winter warmer, DOCA’s famous mulled wine stall will be running on Friday only, from noon to 8:30pm. Of course, lots of our shops, cafes and bars will remain open. Someone did post a request for a list of shops staying open on local Facebook groups, like they can’t do this without Google Maps! You got legs? Use them! Be like Dora and explore! But hey, here’s what we know…..

The Shambles is a magical place at Christmas, with projections by Young Urban Digitals & PF Events, a specially created animated light artwork made by local young people. Savannah Sweets, Biddles, SoupChick and Sunabody Care pottery and bodycare will be open. Cositas Bonitas, The Healthy Life and many other shops will stay open late across town. Cafes too, including the new beauty salon come cafe, Velvet & Bloom, and hot rum totty outside The Muck and Dunder.

There’s a mystery “live band” outside The Pour House, and a choir concert at St Andrew’s Church. The Unpredictables at The Three Crowns comes highly recommended, DJ Random at The Southgate too, and a Lantern Parade Disco Party at The Pelican Inn. Snow White is the running panto at The Wharf Theatre, and it’s brilliant!

From 5pm onwards, find some spectacular street performances around the Market Place. Bristol’s infamous roaming band, The Ambling Band will bring infectious energy with their blend of pink and brass. The Glitter Belles are dazzling high-rise performers with sculptural creations straight from the 1970s disco era. Keep your eyes peeled for Stockings Up, a pair of gigantic Christmas stockings bursting with presents and magically strolling around town, two women on stilts covered head to toe in glitter ball costumes and silver glitter, a woman in a red coat talking to a puppet bear in a larger than life sized Christmas stocking and The Flying Buttresses, an illuminated tree with books that light up attached.

From 4 to 8:30pm find, at St. John’s Churchyard, an Illuminated Garden, an enchanted world of light and magic with stunning lanterns created by DOCA community workshops. Another light installation will be Chirp & Drift by Kathy Hinde, a mesmerizing installation where illuminated instruments chatter in Morse code messages, accompanied by gentle harmonies from accordion reeds hidden within. After a few glasses of mulled wine you might also be chattering in Morse code!

Also look out for an old piano also by Kathy Hinde, a kinetic sound sculpture with videos of birds projected onto the strings, and Emergency Exit Arts’ Giant butterflies; but remember, a giant butterfly is for life, not just for Christmas.

Creative Workshops also feature. Wellard & Wild Botanical Workshops on Friday 28th at various times. From Kokedama to terrariums, epiphytes to festive wreaths, learn traditional methods to create beautiful botanical designs. Contemporary Wreath Making on Friday 28th from 2pm to 5pm at The Ceres Hall of the Corn Exchange, where you can create your own stunning, brightly-coloured wreath using repurposed plastics, berries, and sequins. Learn millinery flower-making techniques with accomplished maker Nancy Rose Stott. And there is Tin Can Brooch Making on Sunday 30th from 2pm to 5pm, at The Southgate Inn, where you can design and sew a unique brooch using reclaimed materials.

Don’t forget the Window Wanderland Trail, running from Friday 28th November to Monday 1st December. For more info on all this and to book workshops, check out DOCA website. For everything else going on locally, keep this frequency clear and love Devizine!

Other stuff going on: Saturday there’s a jumble sale in St Andrew’s Church. A clothes swap in The Shambles. Lights Switch On in Waiblingen Way. Innes Sibun is at The Southgate, the Buzzing Fridges at The Three Crowns, and The Liverpool Echoes at The Conservative Club.

Let’s get Christmassy; cue the Shakin’ Stevens, children playing, having fun, it’s the season, love and understanding, but not too much snow falling please, Shaky!

Steatopygous Album Marks Pinnacle for Sketchbook Records

Raging expressions of angered feminist teenage anguish this month, perfectly delivered by Steatopygous via their mindblowing debut album Songs of Salome, I hail as the pinnacle of Sketchbook Records to date. But it’s only been a year since Simon formed the label. It’s DIY, a contemporary local counterculture ethos; welcome to the Wiltshire underground of the now; there’s more to discover….

There was me, showing my age, assuming Gen Z required Google to know “cassette tape!” But, due to the expense of pressing vinyl and burning CDs, Sketchbook’s Simon looks towards this affordable format, with digital downloads also, to showcase the upcoming talents he finds working at Trowbridge’s Pump.

December marks the label’s first year. A demo by Steatopygous was put onto hand-designed cassettes to punt to Pump visitors last year, but Simon has taken on other bands to feature. Yes, we must praise Steatopygous’ album, but we must also highlight the others too, as they’re released onto Bandcamp for all to access….and buy, people, buy!

“Vinyl has gotten way too expensive and takes way too long to manufacture to make it feasible for short runs,” he explained when chatting about the Steatopygous demo. “For this release, Kieran recorded the band for free, it cost less than £80 for the blanks which I’ve dubbed at home myself. Eliza’s making the inlays by hand and we’ve been able to turn it around in 3 weeks. A 7″ would be, like, £800 for 100 copies and take months to arrive. A cassette means I can just give the band twenty or so tapes to sell themselves, knowing I can make the money back on the rest, and even if I don’t, it’s been such a fun thing to do that it really doesn’t matter. And that’s punk rock, right?!”

Take it from someone who contributed to more punk zines than I care to recall, that is precisely punk! The trading of tapes was the pre-internet equivalent of file sharing, and similarly with photocopied zines, with good intentions variably more sharing or swapping, their distributors sucked it up as a labour of love. I know I did, but I’ve a cathedral of tapes, vinyl, zines and comix, which hold sentimental value, mostly from swapsies.

It may seem surprising to note the DIY ethos remains today, and I’m glad to hear of it. In reviewing them I take into consideration these are produced on shoestrings, that they’re young upcoming acts, and it’s going to sound raw. But just like Ol’ Dirty Bastard in more ways than one, I like it raw!!

Working backwards through the discography then…..

Steatopygous: Songs of Salome

Recorded and mixed in summer 2025 at Nine Volt Leap Studios with Dominic Bailey-Clay, and released this month, Songs of Salome, is a brave and stupendous collection of six outrageous riot grrrl screamo punk tracks, from a Devizes-based female-fronted young band named after the state of having substantial levels of tissue on the buttocks and thighs! Implying, not only a running theme on the psychoanalysis of body image and society’s expectations, but also that they don’t give a flying fuck if you think they create nothing more than a “screamy noise,” will twist any such misdemeaning negatives into positives, and post them as stories on their social media; just one of the two-fingers up at the status quo aspects I love about Steatopygous!

Yet it’s not only the idea if they’re not pissing someone off they’re not doing it properly which makes them punk, there’s solid riffs of what I shouldn’t describe as “traditional punk,” because that’s surely an oxymoron to be spat at; nothing about punk was ever traditional, but I guess what I mean is, it reflects punk’s origins honourably, while still pushing the anger it conveyed to future generations. And in this, I cannot compare them to another of the same subgenre and ask them to excuse my ignorance of nineties riot grrl bands, like Bikini Kill or Bratmobile, though they’ve inspired me to listen to them now, and my finding is, if Steatopygous strives to be an English equivalent, they’re not just on the right road, they make them look tame by comparison.

No one I know of is expressing their poetic frustrations quite like Steatopygous, these six songs prove it. If you identify, if you rethink, it’s in your face if you want it or not. Wall Plug Slug is self-harm themed, depressing in ballad, but still easing us in gently. Cassowary takes no prisoners of patriarchy and sexual relationships, something which rings throughout the album. Marie’s Wedding Song takes us to riffs and themes The Slits might have, but Little Boy is the most poignantly contemporary…. and screamy, making grunge sound like easy listening!

Sceptic really raised an eyebrow when I reviewed it earlier this month, Female CD simply thrashes out till the end of this monster; it’s breathtaking, doesn’t come up for air, and overall, Steatopygous are provocateurs against what’s acceptable, and Songs of Salome launches it back at you in a desirable frenzy, and I don’t believe they care.

It’s an outstanding debut of which I encourage them to drive more in the same direction, avoiding any requests to sell it out.

Until the Last Sunflower: Between Maturity

If mainstream labels require a textbook style artists are contracted to adhere to, the beauty of counterculture is there are no barriers. Until The Last Sunflower is Trowbridge’s Joshua Allen. Between Maturity was recorded in a bedroom early 2025, released in May, and is so vastly different from Songs of Salome it’s at the opposite side of the scale.

It includes tags unfamiliar to me, but “sadcore” and “slowcore” speak for themselves. Lo-fi ambient rock, I’d best pigeonhole it; poignant shards of thoughts and observations from a young eye, dubbed with basslines, piano or acoustic guitar, sometimes building layers, harking back to Spiritized or even the mellowed nu-cool of Bristol’s nineties trip hop scene at its jazzier moments.

Yet its eight tracks literally require horizontal listening. With the deep prose of Syd Barrett being dumped at sixteen years old, I’d have to have had a really shit day to totally appreciate this, but shit days aplenty and Morrisey is a prick anyway; this is melancholy done smoothly!

The lengthy lowercase track names attend to the curious: perks of being a wallflower, please let me forget this memory; just this one, i miss my selfish and ignorant youth, and particularly, cupid vs disgusting men who take advantage of little children. And it certainly takes a gulp of melancholic dejection in an ambience more provoking than chilling. For this, it bucks positivity like raindrops, happy to watch them dribble down a window pane; sombre, emotive, mindful music, I like, on a particular day.

Hurts Worse: Love is Death and Death is all that’s Left

Released last April, Hurts Worse are Mikey and Emma, from Nebraska. A not so sober Simon messaged them to ask if they wanted to do a tape, “and somehow they said yes,” he explained!

This is a collection of eight from their various singles and EPs. Again, dark slowcore, you might gather from the title. Death, graves, bleeding hearts and the one tune most commercially viable called “if you love me please check yes next to the skull carved in my desk,” give an overall of morose subject matters, but it rolls so smoothly, gloomy and angry but not bad tempered in sound. It’s romance at its most bitter, Coldplay gone sour, and for such it’s unique and moreish.

Kurt Alexander: I stepped out into the world and it no longer exists and all was good.

Also released in April, this is a compilation of two albums, originally released late in 2024. Again, best pigeonholed as slowcore punk, though there’s moments upping the tempo, akin to folktronica. It’s dreamer than the others and breaks for some refined bridges of funky bass guitar, electronica and voice samples of poetry or recordings of phone calls.

It’s seventeen tracks strong, often short, experimental in that one blip is the previous tune backwards, and in production I get vibes of Money Mark’s Keyboard Repair. Though I think the downtempo Bristol nineties scene also takes an influence, probably why I’d favour it over the previous two mentioned, personally. But there’s rock here too, crashing metal guitars and acoustic guitar tunes over violin, but so subtly dubbed, it really is an interesting melting pot. If there’s emotive prose like the past couple mentioned it’s done soulfully, and less bitter. Think; Tricky was an indie kid.

Nobody’s Dad: Mixtape

“Not a dad?” this band asks on their Insta account, “don’t worry, neither are we,” leaving no explanation what to do if you are, but you still love this band! I reserve my right to play this mixtape on the school run in dad’s taxi; see how they like that!! The thing is, age is only a state of mind, I absolutely love this, so does my son!

Released in January, this is undoubtedly the most universal and commercially viable of Sketchbook’s back catalogue. That enthral shoegaze sound, female-fronted, drifting and dreamy with hints of grunge. Angel opens the four tracks, with a kick, and I’m contemplating The Cranberries as a comparison. Margo is a please return to me ballad, and is sublime.

You Don’t Communicate, and You’re all I Ever Wanna Be rock it back out, smoothly with those gorgeous grunge layers, akin to I See Orange, and leaving you aching for more. I think I’ve found a new favourite thing. Nobody’s Dad deserves a renowned producer to refine this, as it’s yeah, raw, but booming with so much potential, and that’s the nature of a DIY label like Sketchbook, opening eyes to upcoming talent without the professional angle of “how can I make money from this?” Nobody’s Dad, huh?! Topping this dad’s playlist now.

Kurt Alexander’s cassette covers are individually unique hand-dubbed with green or orange paint and they used a typewriter for the text. Eliza from Steatopygous hand designs their covers and a number of others too. There’s a timeless and individual charm about DIY punk culture which Sketchbook embraces, and in days of AI this is wonderfully personal, genuine, and uncommercially dedicated to a fashion of yore.

I look forward to hearing what’s next, and of course, Sketchbook presents gigs at The Pump, the next is a Christmas party with Nobody’s Dad, Parkii and Kurt Alexander on Saturday 13th December; the kids are alright.

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MP Brian Matthew Invites You to Have Your Say on AI and the Future of our Creative Industries

Next week, MP for Melksham & Devizes Brian Mathew will be taking on Skynet and raising a question in Parliament about the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the creative sector. From writers and musicians to designers and artists, he invites local creatives to have their say….

Only a few weeks ago a Facebook page which posts material about music legends took a picture from a Devizine review of an Adam & The Ants tribute act, Ant Trouble, at Swindon’s Victoria and, believing it to be the real Adam Ant it used it to illustrate a post about him! You can tell from the mechanical writing style it’s totally AI generated, so, who do I sue? Metal Mickey?!

I’m not suing anyone, I laugh it off, but there’s a serious side to all this. Brian explained, “I’ve already received a number of emails and messages from constituents who are deeply concerned that AI could undermine creative jobs and that copyrighted material is being used to train AI systems without fair payment or permission.”

“Before I take this issue to Westminster, I want to make sure your voices are heard. Please take a few minutes to fill in my short survey. Your input will help shape the questions I put to ministers and ensure that the concerns of our creative community are represented in Parliament. Your voice matters.”

The form is here, prove you’re on the side of the humans and fill it in!

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“Antony and Cleopatra” at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, October 18th 2025.

by Ian Diddams
images by Penny Clegg and Shakespeare Live

“Antony & Cleopatra” is one of Shakespeare’s four “Roman Plays”, and chronologically is set after “Julius Caesar” as the new triumvirs Mark Antony, Octavius and Lepidus between them oversee the Roman Empire. Basically we start with Mark Antony all loved up, and avoiding his duties until recalled to Rome by Octavius to help fight pirates whilst playing down their distrust of each other. The rest of the play concerns itself with political chicanery egged along by the inevitable soothsayer complete with prophecies of doom and gloom … Our eponymous hero should have considered Julius Caesar’s similar warnings – but this is Shakespeare so why would he do that? Keen eyed readers may already have spotted a pattern with Shakespeare and prophecies of course… He makes some pretty dashed poor tactical mistakes over battles and ends up killing himself, leaving Cleopatra to similarly despatch herself in grief … keen eyed readers may already have spotted another pattern with Shakespeare and lovers killing themselves over misunderstandings… Shakespeare Live bring this Shakespearian tragedy to life on tour, opening at the Rondo.

The play takes anything up to three hours to normally complete – but director Jacky Crosher has superbly trimmed the text to just a hundred minutes, concentrating on the juicier scenes and real plot developments while using extraneous introduced Greek chorus style narrators to fill in the more prosaic plot areas. The result is a rollocking production that keeps the audience entranced but her directorial influences don’t stop there. The great naval battles on which Mark Antony’s fate resides rather than being glossed over as per the text are brought to the fore in riveting scenes of their own, played out with two full navies on a tempestuous sea via choreography and music. Similarly the land battle is performed in stylised choreography quite superbly.

All of this also wrapped with various well known musical items from Rodriguez to Black Sabbath. Full kudos to Jacky for creating such a wonderful melange of art styles to tell this tragedy.

The cast are no less excellent. When you portray a pair of lovers it is important to have on stage chemistry – a belief that the two characters are into each other, so how better to cast such a couple than with a real life couple; so step forward Mr. & Mrs. Finlay, Rob and Maria as the wonderfully played eponymous pairing. Andy Cork’s Enobarbus is sublime, Lucy Upward’s deferential yet sister-like Charmian delightful while Naomi Miller as Iras shines alongside her as Cleopatra’s companions.

Liz Hollis cameos her way almost sprite like as the inevitable Shakespearian soothsayer, all melodramatic cloak waving, and as a messenger and finally as Eros, squire to Mark Antony. Jeremy Reece advises Mark Antony smoothly while many of the already mentioned also then wade in as a clown, Egyptian and soldier.

Naledi Withers almost surpasses her excellent role of Octavius Caesar in her presentation – its that narrator thing – of a newspaper reporter, while in her main role in Rome she is excellently supported by Jeremy Reece (again!) as Lepidus, the far more sensible member of the Triumvirate! Naomi Miller also doubles up just as splendidly as Octavia, Octavius’ sister who gets married off to Mark Antony, while the stalwarts of Shakespeare Live Gill Morell and Graham Paton as ever shone in their roles as Dolabella and Thidias, and Agrippa respectively.

Tech as ever is delivered by the ever dependable Alex Latham, with more back stage stalwarts of James Dennis and Connor Palmer stage managing it all. The costumes are sumptuous, the set perfectly simple… a black box with a settee, easy to tour with and never distracting on the eye.

For a roller-coaster ride through post Julius Caesar Roman history, a love story, political chicanery and a tragedy you can do WAY worse than catch Shakespeare Live on tour – tickets available at

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/shakespearelive

Things to Do During Halloween Half Term

The spookiest of half terms is nearly upon us again; kids excited, parents not quite so much! But hey, as well as Halloween, here’s what family fun and activities we’ve found locally to pass the time, save on Haribo and prevent wine 0’clock overloading…..

There’s a list of pumpkin patches at the end! What more do you want?!

Have a fangtastic fortnight, and oh, and come back to spook this list again soon, as I’m sure more will be added!

Wed 15th

Okay, let’s kick off early, Wednesday 15th, school gates still open, but St Thomas’ Church Trowbridge has a Brownie Trail session from 6:45, find the link below…..

Brownie Trial Session

Rag and Bone Arts CIC‘s recurring event in Chippenham for ages 12+.
You can do art and design or acting improvisation, delivered in 10 week blocks. Taught by professional actor Rebecca Osborne, learn how to think on your feet, respond and listen and make up scenes using just your brilliant mind and spontaneous ideas.

https://onechippenham.org.uk/event/youth-acting-improvisation/2025-10-15/

Youth Art & Design

Pete Firman: Tricks & Giggles @ The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

With over 4.5 million social media followers and countless TV appearances under his belt, Pete Firman is the UK’s top comic magician. Join him for an evening of ‘Tricks & Giggles’, as Pete brings his trademark blend of magic and comedy from the small screen to stages around the UK with this brand-new show. Expect impossible feats, sleight of hand and big laughs from one of magic’s most exciting performers! As seen on Amazon’s Good Omens, ITV1’s Tonight at the London Palladium and The Next Great Magician, BBC1’s The John Bishop Show and The Sarah Millican Television Programme. He’s probably also popped up on your social media feeds with his mind-boggling and regularly viral magic videos. Age restriction: 11+.

Fri 17th

Rock the Tots: Spooky Fun@ The Rondo Theatre, Bath

Steph & Craig Mitchell presents a spooky and ghouly edition of their Gigs for little ones… and their grown-ups!

We’re edging closer to Halloween, and Steph & Craig are back with all things spooky and ghouly! Don’t worry – nothing too scary for the babies and Littles… or grown-ups for that matter! But there will be some seasonal bangers – think Monster Mash, Ghostbusters and The Cranberries to name a few.

Get into the mood and come in spooky fancy dress. Who ya gonna call? Rock The Tots!

Sessions are approximately 1 hour long, without an interval.
Suitable for children aged 0-6, and their adults. Under 1s go free!

Journey to the Centre of the Earth @ Pound Arts, Corsham

Standard: £15

Lamphouse Theatre presents … Journey to the Centre of the Earth!

Take a break Rick Wakeman, back to your trailer Brendan Fraser, watch and learn Jules Verne, Lamphouse are going on a journey all the way to the centre of the Earth! Two intrepid explorers, one impossible mission (featuring at least one joke about a big hole), and no special effects budget whatsoever. What could possibly go wrong?

From the makers of War of the Worlds (On a Budget) and Frankenstein (On a Budget) this new comedy take on Jules Verne’s classic novel will be one epic night out, full of belly laughs, brand new music and really impressive* dinosaurs.

Featuring Tom Fox and Becky Owen-Fisher, the familiar faces behind the On a Budget series, Journey to the Centre of the Earth will be another fan favourite. Expect silly jokes, catchy tunes, ridiculous costumes and lots and lots of cardboard.

*not actually that impressive

Suitable for 10+

Journey to the Centre of the Earth

Sat 18th

Devizes Halloween Bingo

Come along to the 1st Devizes Halloween Bingo for an afternoon full of treats and spooky fun at 1st Devizes scout hall 29 Southbroom Rd Devizes SN10 5AD. Eyes down 4pm–6pm. Bingo games for everyone. Fancy dress – come in your best Halloween costume! Prizes & goodie bags. Yummy food and refreshments. Raffle with lots of surprises. The perfect way to enjoy Halloween with the whole family!

It’s Trowbridge Carnival, see the link below for details!

Trowbridge Carnival

Brick Creative Club with Trowbridge Library

A recurring feature for Trowbridge Library, for all those little builders.

Brick Creative Club with Trowbridge Library

Sun 19th

Storytime: The Dinosaur That Pooped A Monster!

Join Waterstones, 29 Borough Parade, Chippenham SN15 3WL for their Sunday afternoon storytime where they will be reading the slimy ‘The Dinosaur That Pooped A Monster’ by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter. All are welcome.

Mon 20th

Rock the Tots: Spooky Fun @ Pound Arts, Corsham

Steph & Craig Mitchell presents a spooky and ghouly edition of their Gigs for little ones… and their grown-ups!

Get into the mood and come in spooky fancy dress. Who ya gonna call? Rock The Tots!

Sessions are approximately 1 hour long, without an interval.
Suitable for children aged 0-6, and their adults. Under 1s go free!

Rock The Tots: Spooky Fun

Tues 21st

Online 1 Year GCSE Food and Nutrition Courses

GCSE Food and Nutrition

Know Your Chalk Horse!

Our friendly historian Brian Edwards has a talk on white horses in Pewsey. I’m not sure how family-friendly this will be, but budding historians might find it of interest.

(-25th) Blood Brothers@ The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

Running until Saturday 25th. Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning Blood Brothers. The production ran for more than 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only five musicals ever to achieve that milestone. It has been affectionately christened the ‘Standing Ovation Musical’, as inevitably it “brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval” (The Daily Mail). The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True. Age Guidance: 12+

Wed 22nd

(-25th Oct) SIX: Teen Edition@ The Rondo Theatre, Bath

Wed 22 – Sat 25 Oct • 3pm & 7:30pm • Admission £15 • Community Theatre

By Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss
Presented by Merriman Productions

His-story’s about to get overthrown… again! Back by popular demand, Merriman Productions present SIX: TEEN EDITION; a full-length adaptation of Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss’ international phenomenon SIX, modified for performance by teen actors for family audiences.

Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived. From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the mic to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st-century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over.

Thurs 23rd

Kid’s Spooky Half Term Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

All children must be accompanied by one adult per child. If you have multiple adults coming (parents/grandparents), we kindly ask that they wait in the café for the workshop to finish.

Numbers are limited. Booking is essential and due to limited spaces please book early to avoid disappointment. Sessions are £9.50 per child. Refreshments will be available from our coffee shop to purchase. Our age recommendation for our Art Clubs is 3-11.

Fri 24th

Lunchbox Buddy is back in Devizes!

Devizes Ghost Walks – October 2025

I’m not sure how child-friendly John’s famous ghost walks are, bit if you dare!!

Kid’s Spooky Half Term Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

All children must be accompanied by one adult per child. If you have multiple adults coming (parents/grandparents), we kindly ask that they wait in the café for the workshop to finish.

North Bradley Pumpkin Trail 2025

North Bradley Pumpkin Trail 2025

Sat 25th

Autumn in the Park @ Hillworth Park, Devizes

Autumn in the Park | Sat 25th October

Our awesome Parks and Open Spaces crew is rolling out their tractors, electric vehicles, and cool machinery for you to explore – talk about a joyride!

This year, we’re joined by Arty Kids Pottery Painting, Crazy Cheeks face painting and Chloe’s Mobile Farm. And don’t forget to flex those brain muscles with our Halloween themed word search – go on a letter hunt around the park and see if you can conjure up the spooky words!

Dress to impress in your Halloween finest! The Deputy Mayor will be on the lookout for the best costumes at 1:30pm right outside the Café – and there are prizes up for grabs in these categories:

Ages 6 and under

Ages 7-12

Ages 13+ (adults, unleash your inner ghoul!)

Come for the fun, stay for the spooky vibes – see you in the park!

Woodbridge Inn Halloween Fest, North Newnton

This October half term, The Woodbridge Inn is bringing the community together for a spooktacular celebration—and everyone’s invited!

Dates:
Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th October
Thursday 30th & Friday 31st October
Fest opens at 12PM | Fun until 6PM

What’s waiting for you:
Pumpkin Picking
Craft & Produce Market – handmade gifts, bakes, jams, plants, sweets & more
Sweet & Cake Stalls
Arts & Crafts Activities
Face Painting & Hair Braiding
Burgers, Hot Dogs & Autumn Eats
Fun Tarot Readings
Live Music & Autumn Vibes
Beer, Wine & Seasonal Sips from the Bar

Whether you’re here to shop, snack, sip, or simply soak up the spooky atmosphere, this is a celebration for all ages. We’re proud to support local businesses and bring our community together for a few days of festive fun.

The Parade Cinema Marlborough Family Halloween Trail

Our annual halloween trail makes it’s return on Saturday 25th October at The Parade Cinema Marlborough!

Each ticket purchase for Corpse Bride or Hotel Transylvania on the 25th October gives a child a free spot on our yearly Halloween Trail around Marlborough, open from 11am to 2:30pm. We expect the trail to take around 45 minutes to complete, so last entry for the trail will be 1:45pm.

Book your tickets now… if your dare! www.theparadecinema.com 01672 646232 (Between 10am & 7pm)

Longleat Ghost Tours

This October Half Term, Ghost Tours are making a spooky return during Longleat’s Great British Autumn event. Longleat House was built between 1567 – 1580, and it is believed to still have people who featured in its history making their presence felt. Discover the supernatural stories as expert guides reveal the tale of Lady Louisa Carteret, known as the Grey Lady, who is said to still walk the corridors searching for her lover.

https://www.longleat.co.uk/events/ghost-tours

Trowbridge Musical Theatre presents Robin Hood – A Pantomime Adventure!

Robin Hood – A Pantomime Adventure!

Brick Creative Club with Trowbridge Library

North Bradley Pumpkin Trail 2025

Kids’ Halloween Spooktacular @ Broadtown Brewery – Hop Chapel and Hop Gardens, Lydiard Tregoze

Bring the kids along to The Hop Chapel on Saturday 25th October from 1 – 3pm as we transform The Old Brewhouse into The Old BOO-house!!

🎃 We’ll have two whole hours full of Halloween fun, with pumpkin carving, ghoulish games and more (all treats no tricks, we promise – we don’t want to scare your little ones!)

👻 We’ll have a prizes up for grabs for the best pumpkin design, best pumpkin carving and the best dressed, so don’t forget your costumes!

https://allevents.in/lydiard-tregoze/kids%E2%80%99-halloween-spooktacular/200028572175743

The Three Little Vikings @ Salisbury Arts Centre

Presented by Wrongsemble. Salisbury Arts Centre. Tickets from £12 (£10 for children) Family show suitable for children 3-9 years olds.

October half term bug trail at Dyrham Park

from 25th Oct to 2nd Nov 2025, get out into the great outdoors this October half term for an insect-themed trail around the 270 acres of parkland. £2.50 per trail (normal admissions apply). Booking not required. Running 10am to 4pm, with last entry at 3pm.

Sun 26th

Robin Hood – A Pantomime Adventure!

Mon 27th

Half Term Chocolate Experience@ Hollychocs, Poulshot, Devizes

Autumn Half Term Chocolate Experience at Hollychocs
A cosy, hands-on chocolate-making adventure for grown-ups and children aged 5 & up to enjoy together

Looking for a fun and creative way to spend time with your child or grandchild this October? Our Autumn Half Term Chocolate Experience is the perfect school holiday activity—designed for adults and children aged 5 & up to enjoy side-by-side.

Hosted by The Southwest’s Chocolate Champion, Holly Garner, this joyful and cosy experience is all about making sweet memories together as the autumn chill sets in.

🍫 Start with a hot chocolate treat
Warm up with a choice from our Ultimate Hot Chocolate Menu—featuring 12 indulgent flavours to begin your chocolate-filled day.

🌍 Discover where chocolate comes from
Taste raw cocoa beans, sample our signature blends, and learn how chocolate is made—plus how we support small, ethical cocoa farms around the world.

👉🏻Make & decorate your own chocolates
Roll up your sleeves and create your own delicious chocolate treats to take home (if they don’t get eaten first!).

🎁 Enjoy a special shopping discount
Take home even more chocolatey joy with an exclusive Hollychocs discount on the day.

Rowdey Cow Halloween Festivities

Perfect for parents, grandparents and carers looking for something memorable to do with their children this autumn. Whether it’s bonding time, a school holiday treat or a special birthday surprise—this is time well (and sweetly) spent.

Join us at the Rowdey Cow for our halloween festivities

Pick a pumpkin from its patch & come in to carve your spooky artwork!

27th – 31st October

9.30am – 11am

£5 per pumpkin

***No need to book

The Farm Cookery School Halloween Holiday Club

4+ OCTOBER HOLIDAY CLUB – HALLOWEEN FUN

9+ OCTOBER HOLIDAY CLUB – HALLOWEEN FUN

Arty Pants in Sutton Veny

Lights Up, Sounds Down Days at the REME Museum

Join us for a more relaxed visit at the REME Museum during this special opening outside of our regular hours.

We have designed these ‘Lights Up, Sounds Down’ days to reduce sensory input for individuals who would prefer a quieter experience. These sessions are primarily for, though not limited to, anyone who has sensory processing disorder; autism; social, emotional or mental health needs; dementia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or any other sensory needs.

During these days we will have:

Lights On – our overhead gallery lighting will be turned on, without spotlights, to create a brighter environment in which to explore.
Sounds Down – we will reduce sound effects throughout the museum as much as possible by turning off most ‘surround sound’ interactives and reducing volumes.
Sensory maps – we have marked out any areas around the museum where you may find louder interactives or visual effects that we cannot turn off. This means you can choose your own route and avoid any areas as you wish.

If you would like to bring any sensory items (including but not limited to ear defenders, magnifying glass, book, squeezy toy) that will help you or your loved one to enjoy their experience better, please feel free to do so, just make sure you hold onto it and take it home with you!

Lights Up, Sounds Down – Quiet Opening

Wonder Gigs: Bigger Kids @ Pound Arts, Corsham

Child: £6 Adult: £6 Under 1s: FREE

Join Filskit Theatre for an uplifting and relaxing hour with a talented live musician playing beautiful acoustic versions of well-known folk, jazz and pop songs. Enjoyable for both big and small ears alike there’ll be beautiful, atmospheric sensory visuals perfect for even the youngest audience members. And, as it’s halt term, bigger kids are welcome too so bring them along for this hour of fun and sensory play for the whole family.

Wonder Gigs: Bigger Kids

Tues 28th

October Holiday Activities @ Wiltshire Museum Devizes

October Holiday Activities Lecture Hall 28th October 2025 10:30 am – 12:00 pm 10:30 am – 12:00 pmCome along to our spooky Halloween activities for ages 3 to 11: pebble skulls spooky ghosts paper pumpkins and puppets…

Book Online October Holiday Activities Lecture Hall 28th October 2025 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm 1:30 pm – 3:00 pmCome along to our spooky Halloween activities for ages 3 to 11: pebble skulls spooky ghosts paper pumpkins and puppets.

Art Workshop in Rowde

On Tuesday morning, the 28th of October, from 9am to 12 noon, an Art Workshop takes place, at The Mind Tree Cafe in Rowde. It’s creative fun with collage and mixed media, hosted by Nancy Rose. It’s £30 for the session, and you must book in advance by emailing nancyrosehats@yahoo.com

This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.

https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/

‘Rocket Powered’ – Tuesday 28 October
Drop-in, Education Suite

Design and launch your own bottle rocket or air powered car, using the same principles of engineering in rocket science! Led by our Education Officer, Andrew.

Miniature Assault Course – Every day 28-31 October
Drop-in, outdoors

Take on our miniature army-style assault course! Race your way across the course or take your time and enjoy the challenge! Please note: This activity is weather dependent.

Princess Pirate @ Pound Arts, Corsham

Adult: £10 Child: £10 Under 2s: FREE

Pirate Princess is a heartwarming story of hope against adversity told with physical theatre, clowning and circus. This brand new solo show by circus performer and professional idiot Gemma Bond tells the tale of poor shipwrecked Princess Poppy. Can she overcome a big dress, extreme weather and the ultimate test of strength to see her way to safety?

Inspired by strong and inventive women of history, Poppy must transform physically and mentally if she is to have any hope of rescuing herself from eternity on an island in the ocean. The show encourages all to reuse, repurpose and recycle as Poppy reinvents her outfit and her mindset to overcome her predicament.

A visual feast of colourful costume and a unique crow’s nest on a pole prop, this is a fun filled show for children aged 5 to 11 and their families.

Princess Pirate

Wed 29th

October Holiday Activities @ Wiltshire Museum Devizes

Come along to our spooky Halloween activities for ages 3 to 11: pebble skulls spooky ghosts paper pumpkins and puppets…

+11 Holiday Club @ The Farm Cookery School

11+ HOLIDAY CLUB

Pumpkin Painting @ St Peter’s, Marlborough

Pumpkin Painting at St Peter’s

Pumpkins in the Park, Warminster

Pumpkins in the Park 2025

This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.

https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/

LEGO® Engineering – Wednesday 29 October
Pre-bookable sessions, Education Suite

Unleash your inner engineer and build a vehicle from LEGO® that will actually drive! Recommended for ages 7 and above.

Thurs 30th

Kid’s Spooky Half Term Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

All children must be accompanied by one adult per child. If you have multiple adults coming (parents/grandparents), we kindly ask that they wait in the café for the workshop to finish.

The Sheep Ate Up The Fairies @ Trowbridge Museum

3 days of captivating talks, hands-on crafts & engaging activities start today!

The Sheep Ate Up The Fairies

Wonderful Wands and Quivering Quills – Neurodivergent/Quiet Session (ages 5+)

This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.

https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/

Meccano Makes – Thursday 30 October
Drop-in, Education Suite

Get hands-on with Meccano construction sets to engineer your own vehicle, equipment and more! Recommended for ages 7 and above.

Fri 31st

Kenavon Venture (Halloween Children)

Kenavon Venture

A one hour boat trip on Friday 31st October at 16:00 and 18:00 along the canal packed with fun and games for the children. Fancy dress welcome.

Please Note:
Dogs are accepted at the discretion of the Skipper on the day who will check with other passengers first. Family tickets not available.

Children must be accompanies by at least one adult.

Kenavon Venture is a wide beam boat, seating up to 38 passengers, operated by volunteers of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust.
To book a private charter of this or any other trip, please send an enquiry via the main website.

Devizes Halloween Ghost Walk – October 2025

Cook Together with The Farm Cookery School

COOK TOGETHER (ADULT & CHILD) – HALLOWEEN

Halloween Disco at Trowbridge Civic Centre

Halloween Disco

This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.

https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/

‘Build a Tank’ Junk Modelling – Friday 31 October
Self-led, Creation Station

Come and create your own special REME-inspired vehicle to take away with you! Get creative and see what you can make from recycled materials. The only limit is your imagination!

Pumpkin Patches

Farmer Mark’s Pumpkin Patch

4.9(21) · Pumpkin patch

Marlborough”Lovely variety of pumpkins and gourds to pick, at very reasonable prices.”

Lotmead Pick Your Own

4.5(750) · Farm shop

Swindon

Closes soon ⋅ 5 pm · 01793 790137″Great small farm, we picked a good piece of pumpkin for Halloween.”

Pumpkin picking patch

5.0(10) · Farm shop

Chippenham

Closed ⋅ Opens 8:30 am Sat”We visited early this year and grabbed us a nice variety of pumpkins.”

A Parsons & Son Farming/Pumpkin Picking Patch

4.9(19) · Farm

Salisbury

Closed ⋅ Opens 9:30 am Sat · 07887 642801″Great valve and a massive selection of top quality pumpkins“

Easton Farm Pumpkin Patch

5.0(4) · Farm

Pewsey

Closed ⋅ Opens 10 am Sat · 07964 860741″Farm beef also available to purchase.”

V & P Collins Farm Shop

4.5(170) · Farm shop

Chippenham

Closes soon ⋅ 5 pm · 01380 850228″A great farm shop, they have a massive amount of pumpkins on off right now.”

Pomeroy Pumpkin Patch

5.0(6) · Pumpkin patch

Trowbridge

Closed ⋅ Opens 10 am Sat”Bring wellies!!”

Roves Farm

4.5(1.1K) · Tourist attraction

Swindon

Closes soon ⋅ 5 pm · 01793 763939″Entry fee was nearly &60 for 3 Adults and two toddlers.”

Allington Farm Shop

4.5(419) · Farm shop

Chippenham

Open ⋅ Closes 5:30 pm · 01249 658112″The kids get so excited it helps getting them up and out early!”

Ansty Farm Shop

4.5(186) · £1–10 · Coffee shop

Salisbury

Closed ⋅ Opens 10 am Wed · 01747 829072″Fun place to go with super friendly staff, loved the pumpkin picking.”

Pound Farm

4.7(82) · Farm shop

Chippenham

Closed ⋅ Opens 10 am Thu”My boys enjoyed picking out their own pumpkins.”

Bath Pumpkin Patch

4.4(63) · Farm

Bath

Closed ⋅ Opens 10 am Wed”… recommended well organised friendly good quality pumpkins“

Stourton Farm

4.4(7) · Farm

Trowbridge

01380 870484″Great excuse to pick up a dozen duck eggs.

Allington Farm

4.8(4) · Farm

Chippenham “Lush coffee and walnut cake!”

Pick of the Patch

5.0(7) · Pumpkin patch

Devizes

Temporarily closed · 07970 781828 “A fabulous few hours picking pumpkins with kids.”

“A Bunch of Amateurs” at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, October 13th-18th 2025.

by Ian Diddams
images by Chris Watkins Media and Ian Diddams

Whilst probably best known for his editorship of “Private Eye” magazine and thirty-five years as a team captain on the BBC’s wonderfully satirical “Have I Got News For You”, Ian Hislop has also over time turned his focus to screen and playwriting. Amongst the five plays he has co-written probably the widest known is the one that has also been made into a film which starred Burt Reynolds, “A Bunch of Amateurs”. This week the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, performs the stage play albeit without Burt Reynolds!

The general plot of the play is a simple one – ageing, fading, Hollywood ex-A lister signs up to star in Shakespeare’s “King Lear” at “Stratford” to find that in fact it isn’t the Royal Shakespeare Company he will be performing at, but a village hall one hundred and seventy miles away at “Stratford in Pigshit”, where the local amateur dramatic society are trying one last dig at surviving by attracting a celebrity to perform with them to boost ticket sales.

The play’s style and plot follows in the grandest traditions of British comedies of creating a nonsensical scenario and running with it as if it was thoroughly possible, with the usual hilarious misunderstandings, fallings-out and fallings-in along the way before a glorious finale where everything pans out perfectly and everyone is happy ever after.

Directed by Lyn Taylor, there is a delicious irony – or indeed really homage – in a play about an amateur company being put on by an amateur company… and here we can look at that label “amateur”. As an adjective to the noun “dramatics” the combined term often has a negative inference amongst many, but the reality is such consideration is to malign high standard productions and consummately skilled performances. To quote from a google search on the etymology of “amateur”

‘The word “amateur” comes from the French “amateur”, which in turn comes from the Latin “amātor”, meaning “lover”. It originally described a person who loves and practices an activity for the passion of it, rather than for money.’

And there is the nub of it all – in this play, “King Lear” is being performed by a group of people that are doing so through love for the art form, and of course Lyn’s direction and perfect casting has brought together a group of amateurs performing this play for love of the art form. And talking of cast …

Gary Robson plays the allegedly professional Jefferson Steel, contracted to play King Lear himself, encapsulating the arrogance and insouciance of the Hollywood star in self denial to his waning star. He embraces the personality shift of his character’s journey from self centred egoist to life embracing acceptor bringing a palpable warmth to Steel’s persona. Steel’s daughter, Jessica, is delightfully and impishly played by Megan Hughes who herself moves her character’s unforgiving, surly teenager to loving offspring while taking the opportunities presented her with aplomb, as we can see mirrored in her deserved inclusion in the cast.

The inevitable ultimate love interest is superbly provided by Ange Davis as Dorothy Nettle, director of “King Lear”. Ange really drives the show along as the pivotal character for decisions and actions within the plot and she delivers this smoothly and thoroughly believably, with warmth and understanding when portraying Dorothy’s insecurities allied to the protagonist’s passion. Dorothy’s total opposite within the company is Nigel Dewbury, excellently represented by Matt Bragg as the loathsome, self promoting and supercilious solicitor with pretensions. Its kudos to Matt that he has created a perfectly toe curling portrayal of Nigel, as well as sporting an extremely fine collection of bow ties during the show!

Two more depictions of lovers of their art, both full of over the top keenness and desire to become closely associated with Steele are from Steve Brookes as handyman and low key jobsworth Denis Dobbins, and Claire Abraham as local B&B owner Mary Plunkett. Steve’s comic timing for Dennis’ daft ideas is sublime, and his mobility scooter driving skills are thoroughly fine tuned to boot! Claire is simply brilliant with her initially gushing and fawning spinster acting, turning to surly and spurned grump!

But all productions need finances and so enter stage left Louisa Davison as the slightly slimy, cocksure marketing type Lauren Ball whose husband’s brewery is bankrolling Steel’s visit, with appropriately named bottled beers including “King Beer”! Louisa encapsulates Lauren’s executive-going-nowhere-slowly persona with ease and aplomb.

The whole show is kept smoothly on the rails by Stage Manager Jess Sneider who also arranged the genuine beer bottle labels mentioned above, with tech delivered perfectly as ever by “The Tech Team” on the simple but highly effective set built by John Winterton and his team and all wrapped up with music by Sam Warner.

“A Bunch of Amateurs” is a simple to follow, laugh out loud, gentle and inoffensive comedy that will appeal to everybody – it’s easily worth the two hours plus interval of your life to sit back and enjoy the silliness in the lovely Wharf Theatre, Devizes.

“A Bunch of Amateurs” runs from October 13^th to 18^th at 7.30pm each evening, and tickets are available from https://www.wharftheatre.co.uk/show/a-bunch-of-amateurs/

DOCA’s Early Lantern Workshops

Is it too early for the C word?! Of course not, Grinch! With DOCA’S Winter Festival confirmed for Friday 28th November this year, there will be a number of creative workshops and makery sessions, not forgetting the creation of those wonderful handmade lanterns for the parade; here’s some early sessions in which you can get creative…

A number of lantern making workshops in the run-up to the Winter Festival Lantern Parade have been allocated. Including open-to-all workshops at different venues with materials provided – all they ask is a small donation. DOCA suggests £5 for a small lantern, which requires one light, but you are welcome to pay as you feel.

Come along to one of their open public workshops to make a lantern in preparation for the parade. All materials are provided, and all are welcome.

Held at Wiltshire Museum, Long Street, Devizes, the workshop Schedules are:

Saturday 20th September – 10:15am – 13:15pm, 14:00 – 16:30.

Sunday 21st September – 10:15am – 13:15pm, 14:00 – 16:30.

More info HERE!

Book your session HERE

From a Cage to a Ballroom – J.P. Oldfield at the Bear Hotel, Devizes August 9th 2025

So it came to pass that Josh (aka J.P.) Oldfield wanted to promote a gig in Devizes, home town etc. And in so doing realised somebody else would have just released a new album, so invited them along – and that person said “yes” 🙂 And so it was born… a double header in the cellar bar at The Bear Hotel, Devizes was born. However, entry tokens soon sold out and the gig was moved to the Ballroom with its extended (crown noise Wooo-OOOOO-oooo) capacity. And it was created. And we say it was good.

by Ian Diddams
images by Ian Diddams

So step into the limelight Josh aka J.P. Oldfield dead on time, guitar in hand, standard waist-coated, open shirt and hat attired. And it was hot. Very hot. And he did perspire with much dampness with no towel, having rejected the advice from his fellow troubadour. And it was sweaty.

VERY sweaty.

J.P. is fairly new on the scene in mid-Wiltshire but he is already cutting his own swathe through the local music scene with gigs in the area and a slot recently at Trowbridge Festival. His delivery is a Johnny Cash style – deep voice, slightly countrified acoustic folk. Playing a mix of covers and his own thoughtful pieces he commands the stage – being about six feet tall tends to help!

The set list this time has no Cash … but does have interesting covers; now there are covers, and there are covers. Some are of the tribute band variety, pub sing-a-long, easy crowd pleasers variety, and others are take-a-song-and-put-an-own-twist on it. J.P.’s covers are very much in the latter ilk, where sometimes you are well into a song before you recognise its origins. This takes skill and no little panache to pull it off. Other originals in a similar vein sometimes hint at maybe an homage to a well known song … although not in this set, listen to J.P.’s “Last Orders” from his EP “Bouffon” and you may well be wondering if its a Billy Joel “Piano Man” cover 🙂

Josh opened with “Red Right Hand” – very much a Nick Cave rendition as J.P.’s voice fits the growling delivery so well. There is only one other cover in this set, “House of the Rising Sun” and that is very much a J.P. tweak. Otherwise everything is self penned originals – and we are the luckier for it too as his own slightly darker interpretation of the world shines forth.

In a town (Devizes) that is a beacon for lovers of independent live music, Josh’s arrival is a very welcome addition to an already existing cornucopia of delights. He describes his music as “Southern Gothic” and strives to encompass some dark humour and homages to classic literature and music in the process. Listen to the lyrics and it starts to stand out… and its possibly the first time you will hear a kazoo used in a “serious”, non comedy song to boot!

Josh’s set was as a support the right length, but nonetheless left me wanting more – catch him soon somewhere as a headliner.

J.P Oldfield’s E.P. Bouffon is available to buy from him directly (https://www.facebook.com/profile/61566328311883/)
or to stream (https://open.spotify.com/album/723T6qMJLpqOuyDR8Ly4WF)

Bear Hotel Setlist
1) Red Right Hand
2) The Preacher’s Noose
3) The Ghost of Spring Heeled Jack
https://open.spotify.com/track/3zGmZUsb1nM6ScRQkyTtLj
4) Wrong side of the Road
5) Speak in a Sunday Voice
6) House of the Rising Sun
7) Further From Heaven
8) No Rest

“Glasshouse” at The Mission Theatre, Bath, July 21st 2025

by Mick Brian

With Sandcastles Productions marking its debut production with Charlie McGuire’s original play Glass House, the cast and crew behind this production are clearly anything but inexperienced as the piece delivers its thrills and emotional beats at every turn.

What Glass House ultimately delivers is a play packed with fascinating questions about the nature of transaction and social transience; questions for which, it would be amiss to neglect, a public bus is not only an apt but a deeply compelling setting. For its sharp 55-minute run time, the audience are held in suspense with the passengers themselves as our collective inaction serves as the play’s crux.

What the perhaps overly wordy synopsis does get right is this: a houseless man, unable to buy a ticket, boards a bus and drags the six others on board into a ‘mire of social tension’. It’s a simple premise, yet McGuire adeptly and continually reinvents the tension of this idea in a way not dissimilar to Hitchcock’s approach to bottle storytelling; think ‘Rear Window’.

At age 21, this is McGuire’s third original play, having penned and staged his first effort ‘Sandcastles’ (from which his production company naturally gets its name) in 2021 before his sophomore script ‘Vignettes from an Inkblot Archipelago’ was met with critical acclaim (★★★★ – Varsity, ★★★★ – The Tab) just last year.

Following his work directing a bevy of projects whilst at university in Cambridge, the mercifully compactly-titled Glass House shows a maturity in its consistent empathy, flair and razor-sharp dialogue. It moves from social realism, to political agitation, to a fantasy about love overcoming hate. At other times, it takes on an existential dread, feeling like a timeless, placeless hell, similar to the works of Samuel Beckett, or simply an inescapable trap, as an Alan Bennett character might experience. The play is far more than 7 strangers sat on a bus for an hour.

And about those strangers; the cast were truly excellent across the board, meeting and arguably exceeding the demands of the script. So strong was each performance that it felt impossible to single-out a protagonist, I simply let myself be compelled by each actor to invest deeply – almost immediately- in either loving or hating their character. It’s that sort of play.

Sarah, executed with gripping intensity and striking emotional sincerity by Marta Zalicka, certainly has the most to say as she commands the bus with Malcolm Tucker-esque quips and hard-nosed logic. Rising directly to Sarah’s challenge is Freya, brought to life by May Daws, who is routinely the beating heart and moral compass of the bus. Daws plays Freya’s simmering frustration to perfection and her chemistry with Zalicka was one of the play’s most compelling dynamics.

Freya’s girlfriend/not girlfriend Natalie brings further tension to the bus with a painfully-apparent urgency for her feelings to be requited, as Madeleine Whitmore skillfully conveys the weight of her emotional exasperation often through a mere micro expression. As the play progresses, Whitmore becomes more involved in the verbal sparring and superbly delivers the plays most biting one-liners.

Similarly quiet yet nowhere near as observant, Harry Lloyd-Yorke’s Calum feels like a character who could easily have slipped towards a Harry Enfield-reminiscent teenage stereotype. Lloyd-Yorke’s portrays apathy, however, with such well-timed line deliveries and poignant stillness that Calum has more of the menace of a Lord of the Flies character than the dullness of an Enfield trope.

Charles Wolrige-Gordon scored many of the play’s laughs with his portrayal of Colin, however prevented Colin from coming off as merely a comic stock character by lacing many of his lines with genuine threat and malice. Far less loathsome was Joe Orrell’s performance as Owen, the bus driver who seems to be stuck in some form of Beckett-esque purgatory. Sporting a flawless Welsh accent, Orrell undergoes a character progression which may not feel earned in the hands of a lesser actor, but was deeply authentic and ultimately heartbreaking.

Perhaps most surprising is Rafael Griso’s performance as Eden, the houseless man who can’t afford a ticket, which soars from invigorating the play’s ecstatic, surrealist moments to a remarkable subtlety. Naturally, there are ethical questions to be raised about performing homelessness on stage, especially within the context of the Edinburgh Fringe, but I was glad to see that this is something the play very much interrogates. Without spoiling the scene, as it really was a great shock to the system, Glass House questions in a troublingly-entertaining way why Eden must give us something in order for us to sympathise with his plight.

Outside of the play itself, the team are evidently aware of the potentially problematic nature of performing a play with a prominent houseless character at a festival quietly-renowned for its displacement of the homeless; the play will partner with a homeless charity in Edinburgh, having charity collection boxes at each show and donating profits of the Fringe run to a local homeless charity.

The play tackles a lot, not only thematically and narratively, but theatrically. Attempting to pull off a fictional documentary angle, where interviews of the characters on stage are used to reconstruct a story that supposedly happened years ago, may have felt overstuffed had the play not benefitted from the expert technical design and execution of Barash Tunahan. Interweaving purposefully homespun-sounding interviews with a forlorn and jazzy soundtrack whilst punctuating the play’s emotional beats with precision – Tunahan’s work seamlessly builds the world of the play in effortlessly cinematic fashion.

If I were to critique the production, I would say that Glass House perhaps is not the best fit for a space like the Mission Theatre. The Mission, a treasured and historic performance space in Bath, has a scale to it which does not benefit the intimacy which McGuire is evidently shooting for, however I am sure this will be remedied by the venue they will find themselves at in Edinburgh.

Whilst I am eager to see what McGuire and Sandcastles Productions do next, Glass House is without a doubt a brilliant piece of Fringe theatre.

★★★★★

Glass House is at the Edinburgh Fringe from the 18th-23rd August at Greenside Venues George Street in the Olive Studio.

Wiltshire Music Centre Announces First New Season Under New Leadership

Wiltshire Music announces a new season for Autumn Winter: and the first under the new leadership of Daniel Clark, Artistic Director and Sarah Robertson, Executive Director….

Since first opening in 1997, Wiltshire Music Centre has been a musical hub, bringing the best in live performances to the area as well as providing a home for local orchestras, choirs and music groups. The upcoming season will feature returning WMC favourites while also spotlighting exciting new artists and expanding the programme, signalling a fresh direction and commitment to musical discovery.

Audiences can look forward to internationally recognised artists including a first visit to WMC by King’s Place resident ensemble and Southbank Resident Orchestra, Aurora Orchestra (21 Nov) a rare UK appearance by the phenomenal Bill Frisell Trio (22 Nov), classical season opener by Roderick Williams, one of the UK’s most sought after baritones, alongside the Carducci Quartet, (28 Sep) and experimental folk singer-poet Richard Dawson (9 Nov), among others.

Other classical season highlights include celebrated Baroque violinist Rachel Podger performing with Brecon Baroque (8 Oct) and returns to the WMC stage by virtuosic pianist, Jeneba Kanneh-Mason (Sun 26 Oct) and I Fagiolini, who bring their musical storytelling back to the stage with leading local choir, Bath Camerata (13 Dec). The Young Artist Programme supporting the brightest young stars is back with Classic FM 2024 Rising Star and violinist Nathan Amaral (17 Dec) and Syrian-British pianist, Riyad Nicolas (12 Nov), exploring piano works from Bach, Beethoven and the Arab World.

A season of sensational jazz kicks off with Giacomo Smith and an all-star line-up celebrating 100 years of Louis Armstrong (27 Sep), a tribute to Nina Simone by Lady Nade, contemporary jazz and inventive improv from Danish Jazz Awards winners Jasper Hoiby’s 3Elements, and much more. 

Alongside traditional folk offerings of Gypsy, folk inspired music by Budapest Cafe Orchestra (15 Nov) and “world-folk” by Dallahan (31 Oct), the line-up also features contemporary sounds, including spellbinding Welsh triple harpist and vocalist Cerys Hafana (18 Oct), the critically acclaimed duo The Breath (2 Nov), and London folktronica band Tunng (19 Nov).

Families can look forward to CBeebies Musical superhero and Podcast host, Nick Cope and his festive themed show (7 Dec) while earlier in the year, there’s a Halloween special for all the family with The Paper Cinema (1 Nov) and their immersive puppetry and visuals.

Referring to the Centre’s rich history, Daniel Clark says “With these concerts, we have aimed to honour the spirit of musical curiosity so present in those early days, with a diverse programme spanning past, present and future. In our next season, you will find a collection of extraordinary musical experiences, handpicked for our wonderful auditorium and marking the start of our own journeys as stewards of this special venue.”

Daniel Clark joined in January this year, alongside Sarah Robertson. Sarah was previously Director of Communications and Special Projects at Bristol Beacon, leading the marketing and rebranding of the venue’s £132 million transformation. Daniel, with over 25 years in the arts as a Creative Director, composer, and musician, formerly led the Creative Programme at the Story Museum in Oxford.

Highlights:

Aurora Orchestra: one of the most innovative and boundary-breaking ensembles in classical music make their WMC debut performing Mendelssohn’s much-loved “Italian Symphony”, and Prokofiev’s expressive Violin Concerto No 2 with Chloe Hanslip – all performed from memory. (21 Nov 2025)

Bill Frisell Trio: Wiltshire Music Centre welcomes legendary jazz guitarist and composer and his acclaimed trio featuring Thomas Moran on bass and Rudy Royston on drums. This will be just one of a handful of UK performances, that includes the London Jazz Festival. (22 Nov 2025)

Artist Residency: Groundbreaking clarinettist, active educator and composer Giacomo Smith performs a series of concerts: “The 1925” (27 Sep) celebrating 100 years of Louis Armstrong featuring UK’s jazz talents, Joe Webb and Laura Hurd; Giacomo Smith + Wiltshire Youth Jazz Orchestra (12 Oct), a special afternoon of brilliant big band magic with talented young musicians; Giacomo Smith & Mozes Rosenberg “Manouche” (14 Nov), a special quartet project paying homage to Djanjo Reinhardt’s musical legacy.

Penguin Cafe Plays Music from Penguin Cafe Orchestra: The sounds of Music from the cult avant-pop band of the 80s & 90s is played by group founded by Arthur Jeffes, son of the original creator, Simon (18 Nov)

Little Rituals presents Heliocentrics: Special event presented by Bradford on Avon’s coolest coffee shop, Little Rituals: an evening of psychedelic-funk-jazz, audio-visuals, pop- up vinyl shop run by Melksham’s indie record shop, Doubles and cocktails. (29 Nov)

Tickets are now on sale from HERE.

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Schools Out For Summer: Here’s Some Things to Do in Wiltshire!

Schools out for summer, yelled a man called Alice, but that was in 1972. We’re about what you can do THIS school summer holiday with those little munchkins; here’s what we’ve found…

Please note as soon as we publish this we’ll be bombarded with events we have missed; at least that’s what usually happens! So, bookmark this article as it will update, as will our event calendar, as soon-(ish) as they come to us! Do not fear, we’ll help you through this period, parents, and prevent you having bored kids and compulsory wine-o’clock!

WC says school hollibobs begin Thursday 24th July and parents are freed on Monday 1st September, but we’ve found stuff from Monday 21st, so let’s get this ball rolling from there…..

Ongoing throughout the summer hols….

Boomerang, Melksham

Kids Activities at Bowood House

Longleat Summer Carnival

Friends of Jesus Children’s Summer Holiday Club @ Southbroom School, Devizes

Mon 21st July

Wed 23rd July

BSO On Your Doorstep Concert @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

Fitzgraham Academy of Dance – Mythos @ The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

(26th July) The Jungle Book @ Salisbury Playhouse

Fri 25th July

Sat 26th July

Mon 28th July

Tues 29th July

Summer Chocolate Experience (Adult & Child/Teen) @ HollyChocs, Poulshot

Thurs 31st July

Wiltshire & Bath Air Ambulance Teddy Bear’s Picnic @ Semington Base, Trowbridge

Fri 1st August

Kid’s Summer Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

Threads: Clothing, Memory and Identity

Origami Aeroplanes Workshop @ Trowbridge Museum

(-6th Aug) Devising Drama @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

(-8th Aug) PLUK Song-Writing Club @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

(-8th Aug) LEGO Stopframe Animation Workshop @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avo

The Most Perilous Comedie of Elizabeth I @ Old Town Bowl, Swindon

Sat 2nd August

Brick Creative Club with Trowbridge Library

The Arc Open Day

Ice Cream & Bubbles Festival

Circus Skills Workshop @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

Friends Summer Tea Party @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

Mon 4th August

Lights Up, Sounds Down – Quiet Opening

Tues 5th August

COOKERY CLASS FOR ADULTS & TEENS WITH COMPLEX NEEDS

Summer Holidays: Autism Friendly Quiet Time

Trio Paradis Family Concert: Planes, Trains & Automobiles

ATBShop Warminster Skate Park Event

Craft Day @ The Shires, Trowbridge

Wed 6th August

Drama Tots @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

Little Piccolos @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

Exhibition On Screen: Vermeer: The Greatest Exhibition

Thurs 7th August

Summer Pirate Cruises From The Wharf, Devizes

COOK TOGETHER (ADULT & CHILD) – ITALIAN FEAST

Kid’s Summer Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

Children’s Tie Dye T-shirt Workshop @ Trowbridge Museum

Rock The Tots Summer Party @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

Fri 8th August

Kid’s Summer Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

Mermaid Dance Party @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

Paddington’s First Concert @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

Sat 9th August

Curious Kids: Under the Sea @ Wiltshire Museum, Devizes

Seend Fete

Story Time @ Trowbridge Library

Swindon & Wiltshire Pride

Tues 12th August

Make your own musical – (14-18’s) with Emily Malcolm

Writing (and performing?) your words – (11-14’s) with Saili Katebe

Wed 13th August

Junk Modelling (ages 5+) @ Trowbridge Museum

Thurs 14th August

Kid’s Summer Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

Balloon Modelling @ The Shires, Trowbridge

Pewsey Moviola at the Bouverie Hall

(-14th-16th Aug) Annie @ The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

Fri 15th August

Kid’s Summer Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

Fearlessly Taylor @ Town Gardens Bowl Town Gardens, Swindon

Sat 16th August

Colour Rush

Confetti Battle

Sun 17th August

Mon 18th August

Holiday Club at Southbroom St James Academy, Devizes

A Churches Together in Devizes Holiday Club is taking place from Monday the 18th to Friday the 22nd of August at Southbroom St James Acadamy in Nursteed Road. The sessions are from 9.45am to 12.30pm each day, and it’s for children going into school years one to seven in September. Go along and make new friends this summer. There’ll be Bible stories, games, activities, crafts, songs, drame, and much more. There’s a suggested donation of £1 per day. Email devizeschurches.holidayclub@gmail.com for further information and booking details.

(-22nd Aug) Musical in a Week! @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

Tues 19th August

Crafting with Leather @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

11+ 2 DAY COOKERY CAMP – AUGUST

Make-up for stage – (11-14’s) with Anna Randall

Wed 20th August

Horrible Histories: Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians @ The Wyvern, Swindon

Thurs 21st August

Kid’s Summer Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

COOK TOGETHER (ADULT & TEEN 14+) – ASIAN FEAST

Comedy writing (and performing?) – (14-18’s) with Angie Belcher

Costume design/making – (11-14’s) with Lottie Bywaters

Fri 22nd August

Meet Stitch & Bluey at Hillworth Park! | Fri 22nd August

Kid’s Summer Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

https://thefarmcookeryschool.co.uk/event/cook-together-adult-child-pastry/

Bat & Moth Evening at Baydons Meadow

Vicky Jackson as Pink

Sat 23rd August

Summer Fete at Devizes Scout Hall

The Last Baguette: Bin Rat at The Corsham Almshouses

In The Night Garden Live@ The Wyvern, Swindon

Sun 24th August

Crofton in Steam – August Steaming weekend

Mon 25th August

Balloon Modelling @ The Shires, Trowbridge

Tues 26th August

4+ SUPERSTARS

7+ SUPERCOOKS

Acting improvisation and creating scenes (14-18’s) with Deepraj Singh

Instruments and DJ’ing – (11-14’s) with Mark Lodge

Wed 27th August

11+ HOLIDAY CLUB

Flowers And Friendship Bracelets – The Ultimate Pop Concert @ The Wyvern, Swindon

Thurs 28th August

COOK TOGETHER (ADULT & CHILD) – SUMMER TREATS

Fri 29th August

Hot Air Balloon Weaving (ages 5+) @ Trowbridge Museum

Sat 30th August

Devizes Carnival Parade

Kennet & Avon Summer Floating Fayre @ the Barge, HoneyStreet

MELKSHAM FOOD & RIVER FESTIVAL

Calne Food Festival

Malmesbury Carnival

West of England Youth Orchestra with Leia Zhu @ Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

The Amazing Bubble Man

That’s all Folks! Back to school. Parents, breath out and relax!

PREVIEW :“Glasshouse” at The Mission Theatre, Bath, July 21st 2025.

by Ian Diddams
images by Sandcastle Productions

A very new addition to Bath based theatre companies, Sandcastles Productions brings their self penned piece of theatre to The Mission Theatre next week. Playwright Charlie McGuire describes “Glass House” as a mix of “Twelve Angry Men” with the defendant in the room, regarding some human beings that are viewed as a problem to be solved, rather than aided. He adds that this is a provocative play, that asks many questions… but provides few answers. Theatre is meant to challenge us, and this play should do that, leaving us all to make up our own minds.

Glass House is a one-act, boundary-pushing piece of mocku-theatre, inter-spliced with pre-recorded interviews with the ‘real-life’ inspirations for the on-stage characters. These interviews take us through the nail-biting events of February 14th 2011. On a night of unrelenting rain and flooding in the countryside, a stand-off between a bus driver clinging to the rules and a homeless man who can’t afford a ticket inexorably stirs up an enthralling mire of tension and social conflict amongst the passengers.

Sandcastle Productions are a collaboration of school and university friends, many currently in their second year of courses around the country. Charlie noted he heas been heavily influenced by Robert Icke.

Backed by The Mission Theatre itself who were very receptive to them, this is a world premiere of “Glass House” before it transfers to The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where it can be found at “Greenside@George Street” between 18th-23rd August at 7.30pm.

Mission Theatre tickets from https://www.eventbrite.com/e/glass-house-at-the-mission-theatre-bath-tickets-1246930525769
Edinburgh Fringe tickets from https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/glass-house

“The Mother” at The Mission Theatre, Bath, July 16th-19th 2025.

by Ian Diddams
images by Ian Diddams, Next Stage Theatre Company and Mike Stevens

Florian Zeller is a contemporary French playwright and screenwriter, who received critical acclaim for his films, “The Father” and “The Son” in the early 2020s. The films were both adapted from his stage plays of the same name, and it will not therefore be a surprise that he preceded both of these original plays with a third “The Mother”. Next Stage Theatre Company bring this first Zeller play to The Mission Theatre, Bath this week, with its time slipping, reality questioning story of a post-menopausal empty-nester whose raison d’etre has gone.

Anne – the titular character role – played by Hayley Fitton-Cook, lives a lonely, insular and empty existence in a home dominated by her favourite colour, red. Her children have grown up and left home, and are somewhat estranged to her; her husband she suspects of having an affair. Her life is meaningless and she dulls the tedium with increasingly larger doses of pills, and booze. The play is her experienced life, the other characters being puppets to enact her perceived reality, though we very quickly start to question which is real, which is fever dream, and which is just unreliable memories. Hayley plays the character honestly – as written, straight, she explained, playing The Mother in each scene as if that is the time and place in the real world. Her uncompromising, incessant performance really strengthens the delivery as we wonder which of the almost repeated scenes with minor changes and nuances is the actual real one – they are all real to Anne as they happen.

The Father, Pierre, is played by Mayur Bhatt, as the slightly lost businessman trying to keep a connection to his wife, and failing dismally. He is kind and gentle in his own way but his work life is either overtaking his own existence, or is providing a cover for extra-martial nefarious activities. Mayur delivers his confused, hurt, but also self-centred character sublimely, delivering a perfectly crafted Willy Loman style businessman, looking forward to the next exciting convention on microcredits, while achieving not much at all – except an opportunity to avoid Anne.

Nicholas, The Son, is played by Oliver Manners. The Son represents Anne’s confidence crisis – he is mid twenties and has left home to live with his girlfriend, and hardly communicates with The Mother now, finding her too stifling of his life. His own relationship crisis brings him back to the family home and the inner tensions and loss of mutual support are exposed all too obviously. The Mother tries to mother him, which he is rejecting; his relationship with his father is at best strained, and Nicholas knows “things” about Pierre that Anne doesn’t. Its a tightrope of a plot line to follow for an actor – neither too close to his parents but equally not totally dismissive of them either; their remains some inklings to family ties but they are stretched. Oliver’s perfection of this fledged offspring counterposed by his critical encapsulation of Nicholas’ insecutorites belies the fact that this is his first role with Next Stage.

Finally the fourth character of The Girl is played by Perrine Maillot; the girl is a melange of various female characters within the story. The is certainly Nicholas’ girlfriend, Elodie… but she is – in Anne’s confused mind – also her husband’s lover, and a mental health nurse arranging treatment for Anne. And there may be a thought amongst the audience that maybe Elodie/lover is actually Nicholas’ sister who is continually referenced but never seen, and has no contact ever with her family. Perrine is strong in her characterisation of Elodie, the girlfriend that doesn’t like the Mother, who in turn doesn’t like Elodie – though they both like red dresses….

The mastery of the play is its continual time slip/alternative reality of scenes, often repeating themselves in a ground-hog day scenario, leaving the audience to work out their own understanding of what is going on. There are no right or wrong plot lines here – Zeller has deliberately set up the play with multiple answers and endings, leaving us to decide which narrative fits our own understandings. Is Anne mad? Is this all a repeating nightmare? Is some of it actually reality surrounded by alternatively recollected situations and outcomes in Anne’s addled mind. Is Anne depressed? Menopausal? Has she dementia? Are some of the characters Anne interacts with actually dead? Are they all dead? Do some of the characters actually ever exist and are just figments of her imagination in her Walter Mitty world?

The set is simplistically perfect – Anne’s favourite colour red abounds in the bedroom/diner open plan set. Even the scene changes are done to a lowered red wash of light. Created by Director Tiana James it is the perfect reflection of Anne’s mind. Lighting and Sound is provided between Rowan Bendle and Kris Nuttal with Nicky Wilkins as fight choreographer.

Its a challenging play – it will likely raise emotions, query one’s own visions of what is real and what is pretend, and some aspects may well be triggering. But art should challenge us – and Zeller’s play so well delivered by Tiana James on her directorial debut ably assisted by cast and creatives certainly provides the chance to be challenged in all the best ways.

“The Mother” is showing at The Mission Theatre from July 16th-19th 2025, at 7.30pm. Tickets from https://www.missiontheatre.co.uk/tickets/the-mother

Striking Photographic Portrait Exhibition Celebrates Five Years of Impactful Creative Work with Older People at Wiltshire Music Centre

If you’ve popped into Wiltshire Music Centre recently; for a concert, workshop, screening or even a meeting, you might have noticed changes in the foyer: recorded music, the cafe-bar open at peak times during the day, and currently, a striking photographic exhibition of black and white portraits…..

The ‘Men in Conversation’ exhibition presents portraits of members of the Trowbridge Creative Conversations Men’s Group, a creative arts and heritage group for men aged 65+ held in Trowbridge Library. Facilitated by professional artist practitioners, Creative Conversations sessions bring together isolated older people to share their experiences and creative ideas in a friendly and welcoming environment. So, when Stuart Brook, one of the members of the Trowbridge men’s group shared his interest in photography, it wasn’t surprising that it inspired the participants to take portraits of each other. The results were so impactful, uplifting and moving, that they’re now on display at Wiltshire Music Centre until the end of July, before moving to Trowbridge Library, all made possible by funding from The Trowbridge Town Trust.

The free-to-visit exhibition contributed to a Celebration event, marking the impact of the Celebrating Age Wiltshire partnership from 2020-2025. The event, attended by partners, funders, artists and community champions, showcased some of the many outcomes achieved through this project, funded by the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund. Artworks, as well as the exhibition included songs, spoken word, and art and heritage pieces, introduced by Creative Producer, Rebecca Seymour.

It was an opportunity for Wiltshire Music Centre to thank everyone that has contributed to this project to this point, including funders, The National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund, Wiltshire Council Area Boards, Town Councils, Wiltshire Community Foundation, Arts Council England and other Trusts and Foundations. Partners, Pound Arts, Wiltshire Creative, Wiltshire & Swindon History Centre, AgeUK, Wiltshire Council and Libraries and Community First, Creative Producer Rebecca Seymour and our staff team, volunteers, community champions and community organisations past and present, and, of course, the sixty-five artists!

In August, Wiltshire Music Centre will hand over the leadership of this award-winning, county wide project to AgeUK Wiltshire, who will continue to reach isolated older people through creative arts and heritage events and workshop groups. We look forward to continuing to partner in this incredible project, as it continues to grow.

More Information HERE

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“Much Ado About Nothing” at Cleeve House, Seend, July 7th-12th 2025.

By Ian Diddams
Images by Ian Diddams and Shakespeare Live

Is it post watershed? Then I shall begin… The etymology of the word “Nothing” is quite… interesting… aside from meaning “zero” such as is today, historically it has had other meanings and pronunciations including “noting,” the writing down of musical notes… and in Shakespeare’s era it had another totally different meaning, that being a slang term for female genitalia. So, with this in mind, Will’s comedy about the pursuit of female companionship and the alleged capriciousness of the distaff members of the human species, “Much Ado About Nothing” takes on a somewhat slightly different nuance …

Trawling the web for relative popularity of Shakespeare’s plays holds few surprises with regards which gets performed the most etc. Unsurprisingly maybe “Romeo & Juliet”, “Macbeth” and “Midsummer Night’s Dream” feature highest (google is your friend here), and that trend continues with other “obvious” plays until we reach number seven in the list and “Much Ado About Nothing”, his tale of marital pursuit, deceit, jealousy and spurned love that all comes good in the end. The plot of such a Shakespeare standard needs no explanation here and YouTube can easily fill in the blanks for you, and so we move onto the beautiful background of Cleeve House, Seend, for this week’s performances by “Shakespeare Live.”

Directed by Gill Morell, her vision has set the play in pre–English Civil war times where tensions were rising and families’ split along royalist and parliamentarian lines. This is wonderfully portrayed here with the family’s soldier’s clearly cavaliers, with the opposing Don John and his entourage as parliamentarians. This is perfectly and simply set by some sumptuous costumes revelling in the brightness and pageantry of the Royalists, and the simplistic, wide collared black clothing of the Roundheads. The physical setting is regal too – with Cleeve House as a backdrop to the stage area we feel we really could be back in time, including use of the house’s own windows for the bedroom scene.

The entire play of course is premised on spying and eavesdropping – some for comedic value of course as both Beatrice and Benedick are spoon fed falsehoods as they eavesdrop on the knowing conspirators, but also surreptitious spying in the bedroom scene which in itself is a subterfuge akin to the likes of “Operation Mincemeat”. After all, the first casualty of war is truth.

There are three basic groups of characters in Much Ado – the family, the soldiers, the villagers. The family is portrayed by Alison Paine as a strong Leonata, the matriarch, Jeremy Reece as her brother, Antonio, Sarah Horrex superb as Hero, Leonata’s daughter, the wonderfully tempestuous and feisty niece Beatrice by Phobe Fung, and Kerensa McCondach as Margaret the gentlewoman and erstwhile friend to Hero.

The soldiers are more than well provided by Laurie Parnell as Don Pedro the prince, Peter Emuss as lovestruck Claudio, Oli Beech as Claudio’s best friend and Beatrice’s sparring partner and love-hate interest, Adam Sturges as Balthasar and Napoleon as the sneaky, jealous and conniving Don John, aided and abetted in his fifth column activities by Roger Hames as Borachio and Lucy Perry as Conrad.

That just leaves the villagers made up of the unflappable Simon Reeves as the equally unflappable Father Francis, and of course, the best part of the show (personal opinion here! ) the Watch consisting of Paul Batson as Dogberry, Graham Paton as Verges, Penny Clegg as Seacole, Caroline Emuss as Pyke, and David Morrell as Oatcake,

Tech is provided by the ever resourceful Rich Carter, Alex Latham and Ellen Read, the previously mentioned wonderful costumes by Hermione Skrine, Caren Felton, Helen Holliday and Ellen Williamson, Music by Laurie Parnell. This was all kept running smoothly by the dream team of stage management James Dennis and Connor Palmer.

The play finishes with all loose ends neatly tied up and for those that don’t know the plot, no particular spoilers here though following a brief discourse at the eventual wedding scene I was reminded that as Tina Turner once sang… “We Don’t Need another Hero“

This is a well delivered rendition of Much Ado in a stunning setting – it really doesn’t get any better than this. The show runs all week until July 12^th, including a Saturday matinee, and tickets are available from https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/shakespearelive

PREVIEW : “The Mikado” at The Mission Theatre, Bath, July 22nd-23rd 2025.

by Ian Diddams
images from Jon Lo Photography

Ask the typical man – or woman – in the street which Gilbert & Sullivan performances they can name, and you may well receive such answers as “Top Of The Pops, 1972”, “Man about the House”, “Crucible Theatre World Snooker Final 2001” and “Who? What?”. [ That’s a bit left field? – Ed ] . However, amongst the cognoscenti within this theoretical vox-pop, you may find some that do actually understand the question… and amongst the more likely answers of “Pirates of Penzance” etc, you may well find somebody suggesting “The Mikado”.

The Mikado has had some troubles in recent years being staged, as the core principle of Gilbert’s satire being the send up of BRITISH society by utilising an alternative environment which was all the rage in London Society at the time, is confused with patronising that other place. You may disagree with me, which is your prerogative, of course. But whatever the reasons it has become … uncomfortable … presenting The Mikado as how it was historically performed.

More modern adaptations however have avoided any unnecessary disquiet by setting the operetta in other situations – Devizes based White Horse Opera staged a highly successful version set in a dystopian country ruled by a despotic dictator akin to a 1970s central American military president just a few years ago … I know because I was the Mikado! This in itself however is also I believe to be refreshing – if all such shows (including Shakespeare etc) were always performed in exactly the same manner, aside from Sullivan’s wonderful music they may quickly lose their shine – seen one, seen them all. Reimagining the background creates new ways of looking at the story, naturally.

So step forward “Forbear! Theatre”, a London-based professional theatre company known for producing innovative Gilbert and Sullivan shows, and their splendid Terry Pratchett inspired adaptation, performed at The Mission Theatre prior to their transfer to New York. Minimal changes have been made to the text in bringing this fantasy kingdom to life, with the same madcap characters, plot and iconic songs that have been loved for generations. This version of “The Mikado” aims to represent Gilbert’s original intention by being set in an other-worldly, beautiful and dangerous fictional culture; the perfect canvas onto which to paint British flaws. And of course, Sullivan’s sublime and clever – almost cheeky – music.

So come and find out for yourself how Gilbert’s characters fare in this Pratchett inspired fantasy world at The Mission Theatre, July 22^nd and 23^rd 2025. After all, others have praised this production to the hilt already

“They live for their art. And it shows in their show. You could put this production on at the London Coliseum” (*****) – London Theatre 1
“Superb singing and silly goings on in the land of Tirwudu” (****) – London Pub Theatres
“Rachel Middle has given an old story a beautiful new home” (****) – North Westend
“A real triumph from the creative team who have passionately and carefully reimagined this iconic piece of theatrical history” (****) – The Deskbound Dramatic
“Brilliantly subversive” – Everything Theatre

Tickets from https://www.missiontheatre.co.uk/whats-on/2025/the-mikado

“The Taming of the Shrew” at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, June 18th-21st 2025.

By Ian Diddams
Images by Josie Mae-Ross and Charlotte Emily

Shakespeare wrote several plays that were termed in the late nineteenth century “Problem Plays”. These were some of his works that didn’t easily fall into brackets such as comedy, tragedy or history – usually covering at least two of those – but also dealt with uncomfortable social problems. When one looks at the basic plot of “Shrew” its difficult with our twenty-first century spectacles on to not include it in this classification. Unadulterated misogyny, gas lighting, and mental and physical abuse within marriage are not viewed as comedic obviously … yet “Shrew” is universally billed as a comedy. The Rondo Theatre Company this week, however, sets to reflect these non-contemporary themes in a gender bent performance to highlight the inequalities and oddities of Shakespeare’s script.

It’s also a somewhat sumptuous treat – costumes (Harriet Hazelwood-Rose) are sublime with a red velvet theme running throughout, and the set whilst a very typical black box for Shakespeare nevertheless encompasses a balcony/second tier, an exciting addition at the Rondo.

Director Jazz Hazelwood-Rose had long planned this version of “Shrew”, using this gender-queered approach to (in their own words) “… examine how Shakespeare’s ‘comedy’ has a darker side that highlights how the gendered language we use affects how we see each other and interact with the world …”. That this is done so sublimely well is testimony to their vision, and the quality of the cast; very quickly the male v female “battle of the sexes” is forgotten, and the tale of bigotry and oppression just shines through. Alex Oliviere is simply phenomenal in her role as cock-sure (no pun intended!) Petruchio, wonderfully mirrored by initially surly and increasingly demure Toby Skelton as Katherine. Their stage chemistry builds throughout the play signifying not only Katherine’s submission to her husbands will, but also Petruchio’s adoration for her.

More than ably supporting them are Alana Wright as Hortensio, Megan Robertson as Lucentio, Charly Nehan as Tranio, Helen Taylor as Baptista, Yvonne Pauley as Gremio, and Charlotte Howard as Vincentio, to complete the female/male flips. Freddie Oliviere-Davies as Bianca performs the reverse Kate as it were, all light and softness – until married of course. Chris Constantine as Biondello and Matt Nation as Grumio follow a traditional casting, and both provide strong characterisation as Lucentio and Petruchio’s servants respectively, Matt Nation especially in an almost slapstick, court fool role. Teasel Howell, Will Prins, Sophie Turner, Ed Hodgkinson, and Moray Macdonald complete the cast as various servants, merchants, tailor, and rich widower.

The set as previously mentioned uses a two-level approach which is used very effectively – Geoff Rennie step forward for your design and implementation. Alex Latham provides the usual excellent “Technical Wizardry” and Steph Hazell and George Fletcher keep the whole thing running seamlessly as stage management.

In a time now where the main plot contains universally unacceptable traits – clearly more acceptable four hundred years ago – The Rondo’s production handles the subject matter with care and respect. This may not be a “problem play” by the usual definitions, but the jarring aspects of Petruchio’s “killing through kindness” are laid bare all the more through the gender queered approach.

“The Taming of the Shrew” is showing at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath until Saturday 21^st June, and is a perfect opportunity to see a lesser performed play from the canon… and if you aren’t that sure of the background plots in particular, you would do well, in advance, to “Brush Up Your Shakespeare” …

Tickets from https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/bath/rondo-theatre/the-taming-of-the-shrew/e-moayov

“Prostitutes Marry In May,” Devizes Arts Festival at The Wharf Theatre, June 11th, 2025.

by Ian Diddams
images by Ian Diddams, Play on Words Theatre, and Devizes Arts Festival

Who was paying attention in history at school when they covered the Tudors? Hmmm? Anyone? Yes – you at the back – you did? Swot! I have a vague recollection of a thirteen-year-old me, pre O-Level options, quasi snoozing through something about lots of people with the same name – Mary this, and Mary that, and Mary Queen of Scots who was at least more memorable, if only because she had her noggin removed. I dropped history when it came to O-Level options, so my knowledge of the Tudors stopped there and then, although I did manage to understand when an American, I was playing “Trivial Pursuit” with back in the late 80s read from the card “What two door battleship sank in the Solent”; the answer of course being the Mary Rose. My how we chortled.

Fast forward some fifty years almost and thanks to the wonderful people that are Devizes Art Festival, I was able to improve my knowledge significantly on a small part of the Tudor dynasty – though in fairness the bar was very low to start with. “Play on Words Theatre” visited the Wharf Theatre as part of D.A.F. with the phenomenal Miriam Cooper, to portray the lives and relationships of two queens from that family – Queen Elizabeth the First of England, and Mary, Queen of Scots. The two queens were first cousins, once removed with a shared ancestor of Henry VII, but despite this close familial relationship, and reasonably close distance between London and Edinburgh, the two never actually met until Mary fled Scotland following a revolt, where Elizabeth basically imprisoned her for nineteen years before finally having her head cut off.

The one woman, seventy minute play delves into these lives as Miriam portrays not only the cousins but also a handful of other characters to flesh the story out. A chessboard stone floor and basic set of chair, shrine and tables with some excellent lighting and sound from the tech team provides a more than adequate setting for the tale of desperation, hope, chicanery and power struggles between reigns and imprisonment for them both. The political chicanery of the period was complex, and no doubt the truth rather depends on whose side one takes, but the play rattles along attempting to be fair to both women, neither praising nor condemning their actions, words and deeds.

The actual history one can find in a plethora of places online, in books, films, TV documentaries and so on, so I’ll leave you to educate yourselves if that is your wont. But if you caught this show, or can do so as it continues to tour, you’ll get a good head start into it all.

Oh – and what of prostitutes? And marriage? In May? Mary utters the line towards the end of the play to describe the entangled complications of her, and Elizabeth’s lives apart but together. So, apologies for anybody that was hoping for some spicy extracurricular activity …

Devizes arts Festival continues with multifarious offerings until 15th June and details and tickets can be found at https://www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk/events/

Play on Words Theatre continue to tour “Prostitutes Marry In May” and further details can be found at https://playonwordstheatre.com/navigation-mary/tickets-mary/

Various venues in/around D-Town – Saturday & Sunday 7/8th June 2025

Just How Big Is That Fringe? Or Two Go Myth-Busting

Andy Fawthrop

We’ve always held that D-Town is a great place to live, and one of the many reasons is that it punches well above its weight in terms of the arts and cultural events. Just speaking to musicians and artists who visit the town for gigs and festivals, the feedback is always the same: they’re in awe of just how much we’ve got going on here.….

Do we need to recite the list? Oh go on then – two/ three Beer Festivals (DOCA Winter Ales, Seend, CAMRA DBF), an arts festival (DAF), a food and drink festival, Fulltone on The Green, our own theatre, two opera companies (WHO, DMT), Devizes to Westminster canoe race, Long Street Blues Club, the DOCA events (Street Festival, Colour Rush, Lantern Parade, Carnival, Picnic In The Park)….I could (and usually do), go on. There’s pubs with regular live music (White Bear, Three Crowns, The Southgate), fairs and circuses on The Green, book clubs, sports clubs…(you’re really going on a bit now…Ed).

But somehow that old refrain of “Nothing Ever Happens In Devizes” has been making a come-back of late on social media, yet it just ain’t true. But like all myths, it refuses to lie down and die. Despite this revered organ (ooh, matron) laying out the many, many choices you might have every week, and bringing you previews and reviews of everything and anything arts-based that we can get our sticky little fingers on, some folks seem to persist in apparently finding “nothing” to do. So it’s time to, yet again, challenge that myth and have another go at laying it to rest for once and for all.

Anyway…..at the moment of writing we’re right in the middle of the Devizes Arts Festival fortnight, with plenty of variety to please all tastes. But, admittedly, some of these events can command ticket prices that are unaffordable for some. So, inspired somewhat by last weekend’s wonderful free Rowdefest (thank you Darren!) and, admittedly, a bit of a “robust discussion” in the pub, I decided to see just how much fun and entertainment you could enjoy over this weekend at next to no cost. It’s a challenge I decided to take on by getting off my luxury sofa, and propel myself out “into the field” (as it were).

Armed with only a stout pair of walking boots, an inquisitive and open mind, and a supportive girlfriend, I headed out into the local area to see what I could actually come up with on Saturday and Sunday this weekend. The results are below:

1. Devizes Farmers’ Market in The Market Place Bar (Saturday 9 am)
· What it was: monthly gathering of local suppliers
· What was it like? Plenty of choice – venison, bread, honey, olives, cheese, bread & fruit, flowers and plants, fresh coffee, cider, cakes. Plenty of good fresh stuff from suppliers within a 30 mile radius of D-Town. Added to stalls in the Shambles, this is worth a half hour of anyone’s time, either for shopping or simply browsing.
· Cost: £FREE
· Children’s rating: 1/5, Adults’ rating: 4/5

2. K&A Canal Walk towpath, any old time
· What it was: a c. 4 mile walk down the towpath from D-Town to Poulshot
· What was it like? Lots of people out strolling or cycling, boats passing up and down the flight (an opportunity for some gomgoozling). We also saw many species of birds, including four, yes four, different grey herons – such elegant birds.
· Cost: £FREE
· Children’s rating: 1/5, Adults’ rating: 5/5

3. Poulshot Medicine in Nature Herbal Walk at Poulshot Village Hall (Saturday 10.30am – 12)

· What it was: a short walk led by Katherine Baldock & Simon Parkes (ecologist) around the village to explore the wild and naturalised medicinal plants growing thereabouts, and an opportunity to make some herbal vinegar after foraging the local hedgerows.
· What was it like? Way too slow for me, it was part talk, part very gentle amble around the village green and woodland, part discovery of a number of wild plants. We discussed culinary and medicinal uses. At least I found bits of Poulshot I didn’t know about, including the pond, the specially-created woodland, and some country paths (useful for getting over to Whistley Road later on).
· Cost: £5/ person
· Children’s rating: 0/5, Adults’ rating: 2/5

4. Wiltshire Steam & Vintage Rally Lower Park Farm, Whistley Road (Saturday & Sunday 10 – 5)
· What it was:. An event organised by WAPG (Wiltshire Agricultural Preservation Group), featuring static displays of steam traction engines, tractors, miniature steam engines, heavy horses, trade stalls, fairground, military vehicles, classic cars.
· What was it like? As it was chucking it down with rain as we arrived, the most welcome thing for the first half hour was the (well-stocked) beer tent. I could have done without the loud piped music but, hey, it was dry and there was beer! When the rain slowed down a bit we did the full circuit and there was plenty to see, the most impressive of which were the full-size old traction engines in steam (some also seen later driving through D-Town). There were pop-up food outlets, fresh coffee, craft stalls and tents, a 1940s-themed tea and cakes tent, bouncy castle for the children etc. The site was large with plenty of parking but, because of the rain, getting increasingly muddy.
· Cost: £10/ person + drinks
· Children’s rating: 4/5, Adults’ rating: 4/5

5. Pete Robson & J P Oldfield in The Bear, Cellar Bar (Saturday 8pm)
· What it was: foot-stomping blues from two solo performers
· What was it like? Each performer used steel guitar and stomp box to deliver some hard-cutting blues. CDs for sale. Not very well attended, which was a shame. Perhaps it needed to be better advertised. For me Pete Robson was the better performer of the two, taking a slightly less hard-edge approach to his vocals, and mixing up the tempo, giving more light and shade to his set. The cellar bar is an OK venue at best, being a rather odd shape, with very low ceiling and an only partially-stocked bar. I suspect it needs to be used much more often if it’s going flourish as a venue.
· Cost: £FREE + drinks
· Adults’ rating: 3/5
· Note –we could have also gone to see either Matchbox Mutiny/ Tom Harris in The Three Crowns or The Duskers in The Southgate (both FREE entry), but there’s only so many hours in the day!

6. Crammer Watch Day on the Small Green Devizes (Sunday 11am onwards)
· What it was: a chance to meet those involved in celebrating and preserving the Crammer. RSPCA, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Wessex Water, Friends of The Crammer, Lawrence Society of Artists, Sustainable Devizes + The Moonrakers Legend (performed at 12 noon and 1pm), photography competition, charity tombola
· What was it like? We missed the Moonrakers performance, so as an experience I found it a bit thin on the ground. There was little to see and do, unless you wanted to stand and chat to someone about the issues which the Crammer faces. Several stands were just offering information leaflets. Although a worthy attempt, for me personally it was just not very engaging.
· Cost: £FREE
· Children’s rating: 1/5, Adults’ rating: 1/5

7. Lions on The Green on The Green (Sunday 10am -4pm)

· What it was: organised by Devizes Lions Club, a vehicle display (cars, bikes, scooters, military etc) and family fun day (lots of stalls, bar, food outlets)
· What was it like? Covering the whole of the large Green, this was really excellently-well organised. The central area was given over to the displays of antique, rare and sports cars. Stalls had cakes, plants (from Plot 35), metal signs, honey etc. There was a bouncy castle and fairground rides for children. A licensed bar, coffee shop etc. Lots to look at and plenty of photo opportunities. Fantasy Radio were broadcasting live from the site.
· Cost: £FREE (donations to the Lions collecting buckets) + drinks
· Children’s rating: 4/5, Adults’ rating: 5/5

8. Devizes Arts Festival Free Fringe: Whiskey River (@ British Lion garden Sunday 2 – 5pm)
· What it was: Roots Music From the Welsh frontier
· What was it like? The trio Whiskey River played Americana, Cajun, Zydeco, Folk, Country, Blues and a smattering of Celtic music. Using guitar, fiddle, flute, harmonica, mandolin and concertina, these guys provided an excellent and enjoyable afternoon of music in the (occasional) sunshine. The bar was open, and there was a BBQ going on throughout. People sitting out enjoying a drink, dogs, children, good music – perfect!
· Cost: £FREE + (a large, undisclosed) drinks bill
· Children’s rating: 3/5, Adults’ rating: 5/5

9. Wood & Steel (@ The Southgate Inn Sunday 5-7pm)
· What it was: an acoustic duo playing blues, jazz and ragtime
· What was it like? This duo were new to me, but I was very impressed by what I heard. Two very good musicians, clearly comfortable in their own skin, played two excellent 50-minute sets and got a very well-deserved encore. Lots of covers from many ages and genres, using dobro, guitar, upright bass and vocals. Excellent musical accompaniment to a late, lazy Sunday afternoon. Great atmosphere too.
· Cost: £FREE (donations to “the hat”) + more (undisclosed) drinks
· Adults’ rating: 5/5
· Note – we could also have gone to see Bodge It & Scarper at The White Bear (Sunday 5-7pm) playing acoustic music, but didn’t hear about this until quite late. Also can’t be in two places at once. This event was also FREE.

In summary:

· Miles walked – about 10
· Bird species spotted – about 20, including swans, herons, jackdaws, mallard, moorhen, starlings, robins, great tits etc;
· Friends met – loads – far too many to mention!
· Total cost (for two) – £27.80 (of which £20 was for the steam fair) + the drinks (but let’s not mention that bit!);
· Fun and entertainment had – loads and loads and loads;
· Well-being – absolutely knackered, but very happy. Looking forward to next weekend!

Yes it all took a little bit of planning, but it wasn’t that difficult really. We walked to/ from most venues, so we got lots of other good D-Town stuff (Caen Hill locks, the towpath etc) and took only one short (cheap) bus ride when the heavens opened. So there was plenty of exercise and fresh air to mitigate the various bits of eating and drinking. Did I mention that the odd libation was partaken of? And I’m not saying that EVERY weekend is quite this packed, but it certainly can be if you put your mind to it. Bear in mind that there’s LOADS of other stuff going on – these were simply the things we happened to pick out. There were choices – and we made them!

Nothing Ever Happens In Devizes??? Don’t make me laugh.

Lions, KITT, Moonrakers and a Whiskey River; Sunday Stroll Around Devizes

If it’s good enough for Knight Rider it’s good enough for me. I see the Hoff ditched his Knight Industries Three Thousand on the Green for a stroll around Devizes on Sunday. He probably found a crusade to champion the cause of the innocent in a world of criminals who operate above the law, whereas I ended up at the British for a scrumpy or three….

Unlike some guys who act like Spongebob Squarepants on his tenth bag of Haribo at Chessington World of Adventures, I can only get yay excited about a car show. But Devizes Lions do it with cherries on… and debatably false advertising. There were no lions on the Green, but it was Lions on the Green this Sunday past, an annual free fete/car show crossover which never fails to appeal universally; kids nag mums for Rowdey Cow ice cream while dads furiously argue for three hours with a total stranger in sandals that the Mk2 2.8 Injection Granada handles better than the Mk1 with a 3.0 V6 engine.

I browse unacquainted with such matters, unfazed by contemporary cock extensions, but in admiration of vintage, retro cars and those with a movie reference attached. Every local from MP Brian Matthews to Pete of Vinyl Realm, and outsiders like Marty McFly have brought their big boy toys along to display, as Fantasy Radio blast Gary Numan. It’s a sunny morning, it’s a lovely occasion, it’s raising funds, and there’s nothing to dislike about it.

Cars ticked off, hot dog and an extended conversation with a detectorist who’d discovered a variety of civil war shots and cannonballs on Roundway, if the Lions on the Green is a great and unbroken walkthrough event it coincided with Crammer Watch Day further along on, at the Little Green.

With long term solutions outstanding for unsafe conditions for wildfowl on the Crammer, there appears to be a far more communal tenet between concerned residents and the council compared to the outcry a few years ago, and this day was intended rather to celebrate the Crammer than address expensive possible solutions. As it stands, the simple fix is to raise public awareness that the only escape route for swans is across the roadside and they should apply caution when driving through….please.

With live painting from the Lawrence Arts Society, stands from the RSPCA, Sustainable Devizes and hosts Friends of The Crammer, conservation was a topic, if overshadowed somewhat by historical tomfoolery, which was something new to the day and personally my highlight.

A random team of amateur thespians, some from the Wharf Writers Group and others along for the giggle and wearing of knitted beards, staged a short promenade satirical play “reenacting” the fable of the moonrakers, aptly at The Crammer. The premise didn’t sound so inspiring to me, and I thought I might have to hold my tongue. The actuality surprised me, it was absolutely brilliant!

Pythonesque humour delivered with skill on a local legend, deliberately naff props such as a paddling pool for the pond, and astutely scripted silliness, it was indigenous and hilariously original.

Authenticity deliberately skewed for amusement; they couldn’t have done this anywhere else but here, the setting of the beloved fable, which is amusing enough without the added gags. Francis Grose was a witty Victorian chubster and nothing more needs to upset the applecart about the origin of the moonrakers, as this wasn’t intending to proclaim historic fact checking rather to amuse, which a country gent in Harris Tweed with a carrot in his mouth pretending to be a donkey will inevitably achieve.

I don’t know where the Hoff got to, but he missed a rarer treat than reuniting with Pamela Anderson for a titillating slow-motion beach jog. Oh, and a whistle stop to Morrisons was a let down culturally compared to what was outside. Along the road I shrug at a classic bus, for its appearance would’ve been more expected trekking the Sahara than parked outside the faithfully traditional British Lion, and there was no explanation for it being there.

Nevertheless I’m one step away from the bar, pondering if there’s one thing expected in Devizes: it’s that The British Lion doesn’t change, because it doesn’t need to. With Devizes Arts Festival is full swing, they’ve arranged a Cwmbran roots trio called Whiskey River to play us some of their sublime classic rock covers, Celtically, with a deep southern Americana twist, as a free fringe event; I cannot argue with this.

Devizes live music aficionados amassed and were thankful, as if they needed an excuse for a pint and fundraising burger from the barbecue. The British Lion is a fond institution, Whiskey River was a great break from our usual circuit, The Lions put on a brilliant and well organised family event, Crammer Watch added to an already great day and those awesome actors with rakes did make us laugh as promised.

It was all too much for me, the White Bear and Southgate continued the music, but I needed a little lie down, while our roving reporter Andy outdone me, partying like Prince in 1999, so I’m also putting up his account of weekend adventures for it’s fuller, far more informative and factually accurate than mine, even if it doesn’t mention Pamela Anderson, because really, she didn’t show. Devizes though, doesn’t need Pam, the fun never stops here, Sunday proved it.

Hotcakes, Wildfire, Shoes…. and Acid!

In the dead of night sounds in a rural environment are resonating singularities, a car in the distance or the farmer calling his herd. In an urban environment it’s a cacophony, a mesh of motorways, trains and factories. Living in either you become accustomed, but to change can take adjusting. To accommodate the increase of clamour, when I first moved from a village to be neighbours with a cheesy nightclub in Swindon, we drained the noise outside with the 1990 KLF album “Chill Out.” Prior to being bound for Mu Mu Land with Tammy Wynette, they created an ambient soundscape which rarely provided a beat. I am reminded of this, and other vague but fond memories while listening to The Hotcakes of Wildfire’s four track EP, Shoes and Acid….

Released last week, Shoes and Acid is the brainchild of Mick Stanger, guitarist for Bradford-on-Avon scrumpy & western outfit The Boot Hill All Stars and presenter of Sounds of the Wilderness on West Wilts Radio, a show where Mick uncovers a variety of experimental locally-sourced tracks. Alongside him are engineers Alex Pilkington and Leo Hossent, Boot Hill and Monkey Bizzle drummer Cerys Brocklehurst, with synths, guitars and vocals by Rat Himself, additional vocals by Holly Taylor and a fiddle from Ruth Behan. A different line-up from the 2022 debut single War of Words, whereby Mick thrashes out a tongue-in-cheek Scrabble war over grinding metal guitars, and a very different sound too; virtually horizontal dancing in places!

If I’m reminded of Chill Out, and stealthily manoeuvring through a jungle of guy-ropes and tent pegs across Glastonbury Festival like a missionary expedition, while The Orb rang out subtle harmonies like the call of the natives in the ether, it’s because I’m of that era. Factually, there’s been meditative and relaxing moods in all genres from classical and jazz to new age whale song or electronic kosmische. The beauty in Shoes and Acid seems to be that these Hotcakes nod to them all, or if not all, at least since the prog-rock of Zeppelin and Floyd, and exhausts them nonchalantly unique and punkish.

It’s a lo-fi soundscape opening with birdsong, but Stubentiger kicks in agreeably backwards like the intro to Electric Ladyland, and rolls out a pungent bass guitar riff akin to Frome’s Ozric Tentacles’ finest hour; it’s at this early moment I figure I’m in for an enjoyable if hypnotic ride; pass my meds. Four extended tracks is all it takes to knock up about forty minutes of expressive outpourings, largely instrumental and influenced by many soothing musical styles. I’m not sure if shoes are a requirement, but acid wouldn’t go a miss, it’s a trip.

Second tune Knocking at the Tree has whimsical female vocals conflicting with devilish male vocals, a drifting prog-folk-rock track wisping and earthy; a Westcountry Clannad with a sprinkle of Hawkwind. But if the prog-rock element continues into the eleven minute beauty, Fever Dream, it becomes very Ozric Tentacles, and like my favourite tune of theirs The Domes of G’Bal, it takes on dub reggae. Being that I’m fascinated by the studio adventures of King Tubby yet irked somewhat with dubstep, I’m most at home here, a contemporary Orb’s Towers of Dub which could convert Lee Anderson into a crusty traveller!

Fever Dream is the summit, an outstanding and epic moment in the album. A final track awaits us, now embedded in a horizontal dream like state imagining fractals forming in the sky. Tardigrades is another eleven-minute sonic exploration, beginning ambient house, Eat Static is expected but it doesn’t venture into trance-techno, rather it builds in layers like Leftfield but takes a space-rock angle with Holly’s vocals in the driving seat after five minutes of swirling spacey soundscape.

A gorgeous finale to a great third eye opening listen, which doesn’t appear to care if you’re coming at it from a Hawkwind or Orb direction. I’m just pleased to know there’s still folk out there producing soothing yet psychedelic ambient music on an astral plane, and this rolls a joint up for you and tucks you into a blissful slumber!

“The Last Act”, Devizes Arts Festival at The Wharf Theatre, June 4th and 5th 2025

by Ian Diddams
images by Ian Diddams and from Devizes Arts Festival

The pea souper smog swirls in the dark. A small light illuminates a bare room – hatstand bare but for a bowler hat, chair, side table with various bric-a-brac. A rug. Music plays in the distance. London, 1916. And The Wharf Theatre stage, 2025… the lights drop to darkness… and the show begins.

Such is the picture provided at the outset of “The Last Act” by David Stuart Davies, on the first of two nights’ shows brought to us by Devizes Arts Festival, performed at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes by Fringe Management. A ninety-minute single hander performance by Nigel Miles-Thomas, directed by Gareth Armstrong, providing a potted history of the lives of Sherlock Holes, “Consulting Detective”, and Dr. John H. Watson – formerly of the parish of Marylebone.

Nigel plays Holmes, of course, and also Watson… but into that also covers Inspector Lestrade, Stamford, Mrs. Hudson, Inspector Hopkins and… arch enemy Professor James Moriarty. This potted history, or timeline of Holmes and Watson’s friendship begins at the occasion of Watson’s funeral, followed by Holmes’ recollections of their partnership marked by key stories in the Sherlock Holmes case history; “The Adventure of Abbey Grange”, “The Speckled Band”, “The Final Problem”, “The Hound of the Baskervilles” and “His Last Bow”. Nigel’s delivery skips nary a beat as his voice changes and facial expressions per character float in and out seamlessly from Holmes’ character as the carefully woven tale even foreshadows itself. We gain an insight into Sherlock’s childhood and brotherly relationship, of his mother and father mirroring the Abbey Grange lead characters, and his father’s death mirroring in portrayal that of Moriarty’s. A description of the wind – “… cried and sobbed like a child in the chimney” is used both in Holmes’ praise of Watson’s descriptive writing and that of his family home.

It is a story ultimately of loneliness and love – Holmes’ solitary lifestyle – but also his attachment to his brother, but especially Watson. And a story written with affection for Conan Doyles’ character, delivered with care by Nigel Miles-Thomas, packaged with fondness by director Gareth Armstrong. Truly a “Last Act” with love for the subject.

The Thursday 5^th June performance of “The Last Act” is already sold out, but Devizes Arts Festival continues until Sunday 15^th June with a wide range of differing genres and arts to enjoy, with tickets just still available. To see what is available and tickets, browse https://www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk/events/

Are We Still in Rowde?! RowdeFest 25 Sunny Overview

Images by Hans Shell, Ruth Wordley, Helen’s PolarPix and Bird is the Word

If you’re going to write on a subject you must research it, but if you’re going to write well about it you need to get involved in order to understand the details often hidden to outside observers….

I learned this a year into creating Devizine, when I decided to hold an anniversary gig. Event organiser Dean Czerwionka basically held my hand through it, as I hadn’t a Scooby-Doo of the immensity of variables involved. Since then, I’ve dug myself deeper into the practical, to understand those obstacles and overcome them, so when being critical, I’m aware of how much work goes into putting events on.

Did you seriously buy that baloney?! Really, I’m an attention-seeking party animal who loves to showcase, whenever feasible, the talents of those I spend hours tapping my keyboard to review, then steal all the credit for it! The whole balancing on a learning curve stuff is only a bonus ball! But it is a delight, whenever the opportunity arises, to witness the actualities of my labour, and one such opportunity occurred yesterday, a short walk from my home.

Rowdefest happened Saturday in my village, an idea to retain aspects of a traditional fete yet modernise it to reflect a mini-festival, in which I had to get my foot in the door of.

Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, but for myself and the committee, Rowdefest 2025 started months ago, with tea, cake and planning at Barbara’s house. Then, an amount of WhatsApp messages, a Facebook chat coordinating the band’s specs with Simon Stockley, the solo sound engineer worth an entire team of professionals.

Then there’s the mountains I didn’t climb; Clare’s tribulations to provide a bar, Liz’s organisational skills to provide food vans, sponsors and collect raffle prizes, Kirsty creating a book stall, Geraldine and Angie tying things together, tea, cake and a photo exhibition in the church, chairperson Sue binding our meandering meetings into some kind of order, and so much more from many villagers and parish councillors mucking in, till the point on Friday I was driving a milk-float down Rowde Court Road with a huge tent on it and it all suddenly felt real!

Event organising with a team is wrought with disagreements, problem solving, worries which drag you to examine speculating weather apps daily, and fingers-crossed assurances everything will be alright on the night….thankfully it was, so Rowde was blessed with a hugely successful, beautiful occasion. An equally huge thanks and congratulations must go to all involved in its making, but none so much as our chief, Barbara. Even if one of them was me, I still reserve the right to report on it, for there is no flattery necessary, feedback from others gives me the confidence to say this was as fantastic as I perceived it as!

For me personally, it was all about community merriment, and of course, the entertainment. Under the premise we wanted lively bands I took to organising a lineup consisting entirely of tried and tested locally sourced talents, and calling in a few favours! Opening the event then, the Devizes Jubilee Morris Dancers arrived, did their thing literally with bells on, and got the blossoming crowds engaging in a final routine.

Between the two Morris dancing sections, Mat Fucci of Fucci Fit teased the crowds with a workout, and under the beating sun they got as physical as Olvia Newton-John in 1981, or near to it!

Then the live music started with my wildcard, the experimental imaginations of music scholar and tutor, Andrew Hurst. With exceptional bassist Lucianne Worthy, they whisked the audience through multi-instrumental tangents, wonderfully.

Usually a headline act next, and it was only 3pm, with the crowds still on our village’s own delicious Rowdey Cow ice cream rather than ciders! Wiltshire’s finest indie-pop darlings, Talk in Code kindly pepped it up, making a pitstop on their way to Swindon’s Castle venue. Blasting their eighties pop flavoured originals gorgeously across our small playing field was an indicator this was going to go off rather different from your average village fete!

That was my doing, and apologise if it came as a shock to some sensitive residents. What attendees didn’t witness was me, once being informed about their complaints, slightly sulking in guilt behind the scenes. Yes, what started as a village fete had now gone full-blown festival, which I believed was the intention and well advertised as such. My resolution was, other than gorging on biscuits, that, in times like this, we have to go with the majority. As the huge crowd gathered, of all ages, appeared to be lapping it up, dancing and cherishing every moment, coupled with the expressions of delight I witnessed on the faces of some disabled children in wheelchairs when I held the gate open for them, well, they counteract a billion complainers for me, and I’m certain there was far, far fewer of them than that!

Talk in Code with Peggy-Sue Ford of Don’t Stop the Music radio show

Talk in Code shines like a beacon to everything dedication can achieve on our local circuits, and their reputation builds with every appearance; I was overjoyed to see them, as, like anyone they meet, they’ve become my friends. The second act tends to be more modest with their skills, but The Sarah C Ryan Band will always be one of my most favourite bands. They deliver a sublime melodious panache in style and sound, the kind I liken to Fleetwood Mac, but my daughter suggested Florence and The Machine; either works.

Through cooler originals and the odd cover, Sarah and her band held the crowd spellbound, after wondering if anything would equal Talk in Code, now they were assured I had many more tricks up my sleeve!

WIth the crowd simmered, time to allow Thieves to do their thing. Semi-acoustic vibes, I’d go out on a limb and suggest this is the finest Americania you’ll find around these waters. Authentic bluegrass to rootsy blues, this wonderfully accomplished four-piece vocal harmonise on a level which left our unsuspecting attendees around the hay bales spellbound and those in the know nodding impressively. It was the set to end all sets, setting the scene to bliss, as I wandered receiving everyone’s approval, but I had one more band yet to introduce.

Given the chance, Talk in Code might’ve headlined, safe in the knowledge of what they will deliver. Despite knowing front-girl Chrissy Chapman for many years, and fondly reviewing her vocal collaborations on drum n bass tunes, when she put together Burn The Midnight Oil I met with the original lineup to interview them and hear a little rehearsal, but regrettably, I still hadn’t had the opportunity to tick them off my must-see list.

Okay, so, I took a chance here, suspecting they’d be good, and heard all the good reports, but I didn’t begin to imagine just how good. Burn the Midnight Oil totally rocked the finale, with fantastic originals slipped unnoticed into a set of covers, they made the perfect end to the day. Dressed in a divine white dress of sentimental value to Chrissy, she took her accomplished band and the audience on an elevated hour plus expedition of bluesy rock which no one wanted to ever come to an end. It was total and utter dynamite!

Alannah Myles’ Blue Velvet rang out across our playing field, as we gathered the committee and volunteers to be cheered before an encore. Chrissy has a confident stage presence. Her interactions with the audience were so professional, I had to take a double-look to check if it was still my dear friend up there!

But, that’s the magic right there, to take our talented locals and celebrate their skills as they deserve to be celebrated, allow them to shine with the freedom of expression to deliver works they’ve written and composed, disperse them with classics if they wish to, and introduce the quality of local talent to audiences which may not have the opportunity to follow our local live music scene. That was my objective, as that is alway my objective, and I thank the Rowdefest committee for allowing me to do that in my own village, rather than hiking up Dunkirk Hill again, or trekking further afield; Bradford-on-Avon had a town music festival on, at a level our village couldn’t compete with, but those at RowdeFest wouldn’t have cared at that point; it was magical.

Okay, I’m still at one thousand feet about what we accomplished yesterday, but I don’t believe time will water my excitement down. This should go down in the village history books, and if not, it will always be remembered by me. Again my sincere thanks goes to all involved, the committee, the attendees which included MP Brian Matthew, and our media friends Bird is the Word, Peggy-Sue Ford and Alan Watters of our village magazine, but especially the acts and Simon, who came to my rescue; thank you all, for your time, dedication and for superbly rocking my village!

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by Ian Diddams
images by Chris Watkins

Performing Sondheim isn’t the simplest of tasks. Or, rather, singing Sondheim isn’t the simplest of tasks. With his dissonant music, off the beat lyrics and constant interchanges of characters’ lines in songs it takes a lot of practise, a good ear, and huge concentration to meet Sondheim’s demands. Many companies avoid his shows for exactly that reason – and understandably so being fair to them. So it’s an arguably brave company that goes with that direction – and congratulations must go to Trowbridge Musical Theatre (TMT) for pulling it off so well.

Many of you will have seen Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter in Tim Burton’s 2007 film, but here was the full stage musical in all its gory glory, the tale of a falsely accused ex-convict turning revenge on those that framed and convicted him allied to a little bit of pie-making on the side.

The set built all but overnight by Bernice Hudson and her crew works really well with pie shop stage left and Todd’s barber’s shop above at mid-level. Stage right is the Judge’s house, with roof garden, the intervening space representing Fleet Street. The set crew have created a three-level space as a result and full kudos to them and Lyn Taylor’s fine eye as director for providing such a visual treat so well utilised constantly drawing our eyes up, down, left, and right. More visual treats in store are the costumes, provided by Sandra Tucker and her team, really hitting the mid-nineteenth century vibe to fully set the tone, and special mention must be made of the work put into hair styling and wigs by Sarah Davies and Lauren Hamblett. Completing the triumvirate is of course the tech team of Jon Lewthwaite, Alex Jacobs and Tony Bonner bringing moody lighting and eerie sound effects expertly. Supporting these creatives was choreographer Daisy Woodruffe and dance captain Hannah Symonds keeping the ensemble moving sinuously during their street scenes, and in perfect unison in the bar scene! All ably assisted – as ever – by Team R-H of Nicky, Cameron, and Connor Runyard-Hunt back together again for this show with Stu Langford, Pete Grant, and Steve Riddle who between them lugged furniture and a huge meat grinder as well as other sundry items on and off stage. And Chris Isaacson as stage manager keeping it all under control at the back!

That of course leaves the thirteen strong orchestra led by Musical Director Samuel Warner performing the crazy Sondheim music with strong and emphatic delivery.

Any show is only as strong as its ensemble and this show’s sixteen strong group kept the show moving along nicely with their choreographed street and bar scenes and constant interactions with each other, as well as providing a bird seller, policemen and grave diggers. Special mention is worthy for Claire Warner, Emily Lawes and Hannah Symonds who performed a typically complex Sondheim trio perfectly, and the entire ensemble’s playing of inmates of Bedlam asylum!

It is the principals of course that take the limelight in any show and drive the story along, and TMT have been blessed with a very strong line-up for this show. The minor principals especially supported the main principals well. Caroline Murray as the beggar woman was deliciously wonderful as the annoying, crazy, old hag and Katy Pattinson shone in her quasi principal-boy role as Tobias Ragg the semi-adopted pie making apprentice who grows from timid shyness to cheeky confidence. Matt Wisener with only two weeks to pick the role of Beadle up, and Andrew Curtis as Judge Turpin provided the corrupt underbelly of authority. Never to be underplayed, the evergreen and versatile excellence of Paul West was once again to the fore as the charlatan barber Adolfo Pirelli, while Alan Rutland played the sleezy, corrupt asylum keeper Jonas Fogg.

Noah Heard as Anthony Hope and Amy Emberson as Johanna provide the show’s love interest as Todd’s fellow sailor colleague and daughter respectively – both with clear, strong and lovely voices and an on-stage chemistry as erstwhile lovers.

Chris Howlett delivers the serial killer Sweeney Todd to perfection … moody, dark, surly, momentarily relaxed once the money is coming in, then finally distraught. Excellently portrayed. And of course, Michelle Hole as Mrs Lovett. Her stage presence was immense, always engaging, with strong voice and great characterisation.

There is however one absolute star of this show. It’s usually unfair to pick a star in a show where everybody has put their blood, sweat and even tears into but it is only right and proper in this performance to announce the standout part is most definitely … The chair! A fully working, depositor of Todd’s victims to Mrs Lovett’s bakehouse complete with handle and trap door. Absolutely Brilliant! Worth the ticket price alone!

“Sweeney Todd” plays at St. Augustine’s Catholic College, Trowbridge from May 28^th to 31^st.

Tickets from https://trowbridgemusicaltheatre.co.uk/tickets

Frome Multi-Instrumentalist James Hollingworth Recreates Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here Live

Oh hear ye, for a foretelling I behold. A prog-rock shamen of extensive knowledge and sorcery will enter our sacred vale during the moon to cometh.…

A mysterious lone traveller stands at the Trow Bridge, as steadfast as the mist surrounding him. Behind him, the home he departed, the market Frome across the Somerset border. In front as he strides barefoot across the downs, resides the unsuspecting kind folk of the White Horse. He arrives clasping under his cloak, a magical multi-track looper known as a Boomerang III Phrase Sampler, a gatefold sleeve album of yore in his other hand he holds high above his brimmed kappell, and he hath a celebration to bequeath….

….or he might have a van, I’m not 100% certain! But James Hollingsworth returns to Wiltshire to pay homage to Pink Floyd’s ninth studio album Wish You Were Here, which celebrates its fiftieth anniversary. With loop pedalboard and other such tech, he bravely attempts it solo, but if any one can, he can.

In our writer Andy’s extolled words of a review long past, when James did similar at the Devizes Southgate on Dark Side of the Moon’s fiftieth birthday, Andy called him a “tour de force, a stunning effort of both musical versatility, but also of concentration. It’s the music he loves, and it really showed.”

Unlike Andy, I’m not of that era, being only two when Wish You Were Here was released, and as a result I’m more critical about prog-rock. Though Floyd are a timeless band, whose lyrics we chanted on the playground, inciting us not to need education or thought-control. And of James I said in a 2022 review, again at the Southgate, “for any music lover from folk to prog-rock, from the era of mellowed Floyd-eske goodness, James Hollingsworth works some magic,” so, I must have loved it!

To make sure, James sent me his latest outpouring, an intense collaboration with keyboardist Steve Griffiths called Lost in the Winds of Time. With tolkienesque charm, swirling soundscapes and whimsical storytelling, Lost in the Winds of Time is a sea shanty rock opera, nine lengthy tracks strong, each flowing beautifully like the whistling winds, into a narrative, mystically.

Though Lost in the Winds of Time might be better comparable to the album Meddle, with its gorgeous circulating psychotropic-inducing effects and riffs which roll over like waves on a calming sea caressing the shore. James’ silky vocals drift across the ether, like Wiltshire’s own Justin Hayward narrating a Victoran fantasy adventure, or Harry Potter Goes to Sea with Gandalf!

It’s an impressive trip, to me, as I’m one who, during the intervening period between undesirable commercialised electronica and the more welcomed acid house, sought the archives for lost psychedelia to suit my blossoming journey into the psyche’s nirvana (I was at art college, it was part of the curriculum!) The older Floyd albums were an inevitable discovery I revelled in, horizontally in a moulding bedroom. Wish You Were Here stood out, for its vivid masterpieces of alienation and mental health, attributing original Pink Floyd member Syd Barrett, and paying their respects to him in such sublime manner reflected by listeners to anyone they once loved and lost.

Not to be confused with a tribute act, James Hollingsworth more simply pays homage to his influences in his own manner, and plans to play some of his compositions alongside. How will he do it? Bet you wish you were here to hear it… (see what I did there? I’ll get my fur-lined Afghan coat!)

He takes his show to Melksham, at the Grapes on Saturday 17th May. At the Southgate in Devizes on bank holiday Monday, the 26th May, which are both free, and as part of the Bath Fringe on Thursday 29th May at The Ring O Bells, ticketed event. Also at The Creative Innovation Centre in Taunton on Friday 23rd May.

“The Diary of Anne Frank” at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, May 12th-17th 2025.

by Ian Diddams
images by Chris Watkins Media

One could argue that Anne Frank is possibly the most well-known civilian of the WW2 years, and certainly of those totally unconnected with the machinery of war where we may consider the likes of Turing, or Barnes-Wallis etc. It’s a name one comes across quite early in life generally – and never leaves one. In this regard she and her diary need no further explanation (although as ever Wikipedia provides background). The stage play, by Frances Goodrich & Albert Hackett, brings Anne’s words into action, and in an intimate space such as the Wharf theatre, quite literally into your lap in the front row seats.

You could be excused if you had a preconceived idea that the play is one of horror and misery and sadness. It is – but the mood is not as sombre as those fears overall, and there are elements that are light-hearted, joyful and uplifting. There are jokes too – albeit admittedly black humoured ones that may raise a smile rather than a belly laugh. Yet the uglier parts of the storyline are cleverly not actually regarding the Nazi oppression of Jews and the concentration camps although that omnipresent fear is there, but of the interaction of personalities of the inhabitants of the attic. Clashes of ethos, and bigotry, constantly arise – misogyny, social class and ephebiphobia are all displayed as a microcosm of the wider and bigoted world outside the warehouse, where petty personal quarrels despite the extreme and perilous position the group are in are never far from the surface.

The opening scenes introduce us to those in hiding – Otto Frank (Sean Andrews), Edith Frank (Mari Webster) and their two daughters Margot (Poppi Lamb-Hughes) and Anne (Tamsin Antignani), and their guests The Van Daans (Debby Wilkinson and Steve Brookes) and their son Peter (Joe McMillan) with the late arriver Mr Dussel (Chris Underwood). They are supported by the friends on the “outside” Mr. Kraler (Ian Glennie) and Miep Gies (Mitzi Baehr). The action takes place in a warehouse attic, of course, ably represented on stage with differing levels for main room, Anna and Mr Dussel’s elevated bedroom with window overlooking the street, and a roof space bedroom on a third level for Peter complete with skylight. A simple table with a couple of kitchen chairs sits centre stage, with a small kitchen at the rear.

We quickly learn each character’s personality. Otto is a kind, generous man very much the peace maker amongst the enforced group which do not get on at all well. Edith is a well-mannered but stiff woman trying to keep her daughters, especially Anne in check, with whom she has a difficult relationship – Anne frequently laments this. Margot emulates her mother’s simple quiet approach and studies hard. Mrs Van Daan is at first supremely gauche, but opiniated, though later succumbs to fears and terrors and her early familiarity turns to anxiety and a breakdown. Messrs Van Daan and Dussel prove to be Anne’s nemeses – or at least unappreciative and spiteful opponents. Neither of them approves of her youthfulness and forthrightness, where Dussel is an autistic loner and Van Daan a reprehensible human being who has no good word for anybody and breaks obvious societal rules for the position they are all in. Peter is a lost boy – oppressed by his father’s ire and his mother’s insouciance and control. He is an uptight lad, his only joy his cat – at least initially. Which leaves Anne – a boisterous, playful and obstreperous teenager with a strong mind and words to equal it, that clashes with most of the room’s occupants throughout the show, aside from her sister and father whom she adores.

The overall atmosphere of the attic is one of social oppression – everyone mucking in while resenting each party’s presence … the Van Daan’s view the Franks as too progressive, Peter doesn’t trust anybody, The Franks play the tight-lipped hosts, while Dussel arrives late to the group, is accused of taking up valuable food and despises the entire situation and others. It is maybe the original Big Brother house….

The overarching storyline is Anne’s of course – the other characters in some ways creating the background to her story. This is a story of growing up – she was incarcerated in that attic from the ages of thirteen to fifteen and we see her move from playful child to moody but confident teenager. Her self-cognisance develops as the play progresses. And her monologues become increasingly poignant, especially with our benefit of hindsight over eighty years later. In many ways her feistiness and self-assurance seem decades ahead of her time.

The lifelines of Mr Kraler and Miep provide hope and excitement as their visits bring provisions and news. Kraler is overwhelmed by events while risking his own life for them, and Miep is the caring, doting friend, very much everybody’s mother in her protections.

The play however is not without lighter scenes illustrating joy, highlighted by the sweet scene as the group celebrate Hannukah together – shared prayer, food, and presents from Anne for everybody. It’s a joyous scene, providing a relief of tension akin to the Porter scene in Macbeth, but – just as in the wedding scene in “Fiddler on The Roof” – it has a disturbing ending. What finally happens to these characters is well documented of course. Only Otto survives, and in real life it is he that has Anne’s diary published.

Lighting and sound throughout add wonderfully to the sombre, oppressive atmosphere, headed up as ever by The Wharf’s Tech Team. Set design – see previous comments – equally as ever was provided by ever excellent John Winterton. Costumes sold the period extremely well provided by Gill Barnes and her wardrobe team.

Direction was by Freddie Underwood – Freddie visited Anne Frank’s house in Amsterdam last year and was moved to find a play to present with this amazing story. This is a tight production, with clever uses of levels and space and even with at times ten people on the Wharf’s fairly small stage it never looked crowded or crushed. Testimony to Freddie’s vision is how slickly the action and story moves along – both the eighty-five minute first act, and hour long second act moved along timelessly with nary a slow moment.

And so to the cast, who all combined to tell Anne’s story so well. Sean Andrews as Otto embodied the loving, peace-making tribe leader so well… a reassuring presence on stage both in character and as a performer. The nuances of grief, hope, despair and love embraced smoothly. Mari Webster’s Edith was a master class in tight lipped suppression of emotions until her eventual explosion of rage and home truths – nought to sixty in three seconds, flipping a switch, and Mari managed both, and the switch, to perfection. Poppi Lamb-Hughes was the perfect foil as Margot to Anne’s outgoing demeanour, playing the demure older sister in a peaceful, tranquil manner while indicating the inner fears that Margot must have had. It was good to see Joe McMillan return to the Wharf’s stage again, and his portrayal of Peter as the shy, reticent, lonely boy scared of his father and distanced from his mother, that blooms as his friendship with Anne develops was made to look so easy. Debby Wilkinson as Mrs Van Daan also had a changing personality to perform, from brash gaucheness to fear ridden depression and the ever-talented Debby naturally provided both with aplomb. Steve Brookes as Mr Van Daan wonderfully filled the role of most hated character with his snide remarks, dislike of younger people, and selfishness. Chris Underwood of course caught Drussel’s mean nature throughout the play as the outsider that doesn’t want to be inside. Ian Glennie in his first ever acting role showed the frailty and fear of Mr Kraler’s position to a tee, while the versatile Mitzi Baehr was wonderful in her performance of Miep Gies … the compassionate, caring, selfless provider.

Which just leaves Tamsin Antignani. Aged fourteen, the same age as Anne Frank pretty much, this was a virtuoso performance for one so young. She WAS Anne Frank. A huge number of lines, constant stage movement, expressions, mood swings were all taken in Tamsin’s stride. A wonderful performance – chapeau. Totally chapeau!

The play has no surprise end – we all know what happened. And in the second act particularly passages from Anne’s diary litter her character’s monologues providing chilling reflections of what was to be, as opposed to what was hoped for.

“I want to be a journalist. I love to write”.
“Will I ever be able to write well? I want to so much”

The painful ironies here of course being Anne never survived WW2, never became a journalist. But has a book that has been translated into seventy languages and has sold over thirty million copies worldwide.

And of course – we shall remember them.
Otto Edith Margot Anne Hermann Auguste Peter Fritz

We should never forget them. And as Anne says in this play

“Some day… I hope…”

“The Diary of Anne Frank” plays at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, May 12th-17th.
The cast, crew and theatre are delighted to announce that the show is already sold out.

Family Easter Holiday Events

Devizine isn’t only about music and gigs for grownups, y’know? It’s about events for everyone. This Easter we’ve lots of things to do over the school holiday, you just need to scroll our event calendar to find them!

Oh, okay yeah, wine o’clock already and it’s only the first day?! I’ll list what we’ve got so far below, make it easy for you, but you should keep an eye on the calendar as it updates daily with more stuff to do! And, it should go without saying by now, if you’ve know of anything else let us know and we can add it!

Imber Village open days – April 7th to April 9th

Monday 7th

Wonder Gigs: Under The Sea

Thursday 10th

Saturday 12th

Young Curators Club: April – Prehistoric Sea Creatures @ Wiltshire Museum Devizes

Little Pickles Market

Sunday 13th

Messy Easter at Bishops Cannings School

Monday 14th

Official Opening of Hillworth Park Cafe with Soupchick

Easter bonnet decorating @ Caffe Vialottie, Devizes

Rock The Tots: Transport

Tuesday 15th

Wednesday 16th

Thursday 17th

The Noise Next Door: The Adventure Academy … For Adventurers!

Saturday 19th April

Natural History Museum Presents Dinosaurs Live! @ The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

Sunday 20th

Mini Ravers – Easter Special

Mon 21st

Bradford-on-Avon Duck Race

That’s all folks! But do come back here in a day or so, I’m sure there will be more added! Happy Easter!

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Un/Common People: Folk Culture in Wessex; Latest Fascinating Exhibition at Wiltshire Museum

Stuffed my dinner, scanned the brief, headlonged out the door, forgot about the road diversion into the Market Place, made a u-turn, arrived at Wiltshire Museum only two minutes late for the preview evening to their latest exhibition, convincing myself it’s often more interesting to go in blind to what the show is all about anyway!

There’s graffitied skateboards in the exhibition, embroideries, an abstract canvas, a jester’s uniform, old ledgers, ships in bottles, straw sculptures, a video of Stonehenge at summer solstice, and many other fascinating items you’d be excused for misunderstanding how they all relate if the rooms was stripped of the information boards and the exhibition’s title, Un/Common People: Folk Culture in Wessex.

The exhibition opens at Wiltshire Museum from today, Saturday 5th April and runs until Saturday 6th September 2025; plenty of time to pay it a visit, and I recommend you do.

Fortunately for my ignorance, external curator Mellany Robinson of The Museum of British Folklore was on hand to provide a brief speech explaining the reasoning behind it. All the items on show here are bonded by one concept, that they “tell local, political, expected and entirely unexpected stories to reframe the rich heritage and vibrant present day folk cultures for modern audiences.” And as being folk culture, all the items are created by folk without the disciplines of their craft via official training or education.

Now I can relate! Although I don’t wish to discuss my short-lived art college days, my creative labours are all self-taught, save some advice from cartoonists and writers in my younger days. One piece in the exhibit in particular caught my fascination, as a punk-paste zine-maker of yesteryear; an amateurishly hand-drawn flyer for the 1979 Stonehenge Festival. I strongly suspect, whatever angle you come at this from, whether historian, antique dealer, or folk musician, counterculture artist, or possibly more simply, you hold a passing interest in the origins of local folklore, you will find many objects here on display to fascinate you.

I left feeling enlightened, and perhaps a smidgen abashed by the many things I didn’t know. A Hob-Nob is not biscuit, rather a horse-like costumed fellow in the Salisbury Giant, a midsummer procession first recorded in 1572, for example! I now understand why Great Wishford has Oak Apple Day, and what it means to proclaim, “Grovely, Grovely and all Grovely!”

A handcrafted Wiltshire sweetheart pin cushion made by a World War I veteran, a rare ship crafted entirely from straw linking to Poole’s maritime heritage, and a poignant portrait by a Nigerian artist created while seeking asylum in Swindon, are items the Museum hail are the highlights, but depending on your personal interests, I believe what will constitute the highlight will be open to interpretation, being such a timeless mixed bag of tricks held together only by this theme of folk art; I have plenty of musician friends of whom, I guess, would be fascinated by the instruments, artists who would love the artwork from a community project, and others who would cherish this Wessex folk calendar feel to the whole exhibit, from the Summer Solstice at Stonehenge to the May Day celebrations in Cerne Abbas.

Now I’m concerned by my overuse of the word “fascinating,” but the boot fits, that’s what it surprisingly is!

Curator Mellany Robinson told how the The Museum of British Folklore doesn’t have a fixed venue, and it started because founder Simon Costin was, “passionate about what museums call intangible cultural heritage, the heritage of folklore which has historically been suppressed, and overlooked. So, when people die, their works get chucked, because it isn’t considered financial value, but it is of huge personal and historic value.”

Simon Costin founded the The Museum of British Folklore by “buying an old caravan on Ebay in 2008, and travelled around the country for six months turning it into a museum, to test the response. And we need a Museum of British Folklore because we are one of the very few countries which doesn’t have one.”

This project, a collaboration with the Wessex Museum’s collections and the Museum of British Folklore, is more anti-museum than museum in the traditional sense. With many items by unknown creators and certainly all of them unprofessional, it’s more of a hobbit-hole of hidden treasures and curiosities.

“We had to share what we thought of as folk culture because lots of people think certain things of folk culture,” Mellany explained, “but our definition is; something creative not necessarily tangible, produced by someone who doesn’t have formal training in that medium.”

Again, we find Wiltshire Museum bucking the preconceived stereotypes of what constitutes traditional aspects of a museum exhibition, and we should consider ourselves lucky to have them on our doorstep here in Devizes, putting the “muse” in “museum!”

Un/Common People: Folk Culture in Wessex opens today, and runs until Saturday 6th September. Summer Opening Times are from 10am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday. Entry to the exhibition is included in the admission ticket. Tickets cost from £8.50 (concessions available,) and it’s free for under 18s. Director of Wiltshire Museum David Dawson has an online talk introducing the new exhibition on the 8th April.

Do check the Museum’s website for there are many great events upcoming, including the Curious Kids workshops for ages 3-11 and the Museum Explorers Club for 5-7 year olds, lectures, walks and stone carving courses.

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“Blood Brothers” at The Mission Theatre, Bath, March 27th-30th 2025

by Ian Diddams
images by Ann Ellison.

What can possibly be better than watching a performance of “Blood Brothers” by Willy Russell? Watching TWO performances of “Blood Brothers” by Willy Russell of course! Next Stage Youth performed their dress rehearsals at The Mission Theatre last night, and with two casts we were treated to both of them in action.

The story-line of “Blood Brothers” is easily findable on the web if required, so I won’t bore you with it here, but Next Stage Youth deliver a stripped back – but by no means lesser for it – version of the musical. With most of the songs trimmed out to create a fast paced, bare boned, breathless ninety minute production, the audience is kept fully engaged as the tale of twins separated at birth (sound familar?) takes us from city to country, working to middle class, struggles.

The set matches this approach – in the round, bare floor with clever use of eight hinged lidded boxes as prop containers, chairs, windows and walls and the actors do the rest. Clever tech from Kris Nuttal, Alex Tarasevych and Rowan Bendle, with choreography by Hayley Fitton-Cook and wardrobe by Vanessa Bishop paints all the pictures our minds need for this tale of friendship, jealousy, social extremes and madness. Voice coaches Kay Francksen and John Matthews deserve credit too for taking what are a group of West Country youth and getting them to deliver decently passable Scouse accents 😊

Principals are split between the two casts but the ensemble for both remains the same four core actors, a huge kudos to their abilities despite their young ages. I’ll wrap up with the cast lists at the end of this review, but it is more that fair to say all the casts show passion and no little assurance in delivering their characterisations as separated twins raised each side of the tracks (sound familiar?), their mothers, best friend and the wonderful narrators (more of them later!). It would be unfair to pick any of these principles out for any more praise that others but I will say I had the pleasure of seeing two generations of the Chivers family perform in two nights in two different shows and the dynasty forming is clear! Also Dilys Hughes deserves a mention as it’s the second time I’ve had the privilege of seeing her act after her appearance in “Jerusalem” recently.

The pairings of Mrs Johnston and Micky were spot on. Both the Eddie’s almost stole the show. The pair of Lindas broke all our hearts as the devoted girlfriends of both twins, while both Mrs Lyons craft the character’s descent into madness superbly – sound familiar?. And the Narrators excel in both casts, including the siblings Gully and Edith Kuenzler playing opposite each other. And another mention to the pairs of twins which are devoted to each other until Micky rejects Eddie and his best friend becomes his enemy – sound familiar?

This just leaves my appreciation of the director Ann Ellison. The stripped back show she has developed really works but it’s the little touches that really shine. The narrators appear as marionette puppeteers, controlling the characters as the story unfolds…. Sound familiar?

So those allusions of familiarity? Well, four hundred years is a LONG time in theatre… but what stood out to me again and again were the parallels in the story and developed by Ann just shout Shakespeare to me. We have twins separated at birth ( Comedy of Errors, Twelfth Night) but the clear parallels are with Macbeth… where Eddie is Banquo and Mickey is Macbeth in their friendship story arc, Mrs Lyons is Lady Macbeth in her descent into madness, and brilliance of brilliance the marionette puppeteers controlling the destiny of the characters are the Witches. Sublime. Goosebumps.

The play itself encompasses so much; it’s a story of superstitions – shoes on tables, a single magpie, prophecies of separated twins. Foreshadowing of the twins eventual demise with the use of a particular implement throughout Mickey’s personal timeline. And almost biblical allusions to two mothers – one mother giveth, the other taketh away. And Russell – and Next Stage Youth – leave us with existential queries… is Eddie patronising? Is Mickey ungrateful? Had Mrs Lyons selected the other twin would the story have ended the same – nature versus nurture? And overall it is a play that presents a very downbeat view of married life from both ends of the socio-economic spectrum, wonderfully portrayed by these young actors.

“Blood Brothers” is showing this week Thursday 27^th March to Sunday 30^th March at 19:30 with matinees at 14:00 Saturday and Sunday

Tickets from https://www.missiontheatre.co.uk/tickets?category=Blood Brothers

“Flatpack” at The Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, March 26th-29th 2025.

by Ian Diddams
images by Josie Mae Ross and Richard Fletcher

John Hodge is well known for his screenwriting of “Shallow Grave”, “The Beach”, “A Life Less Ordinary” and “Trainspotting”, as well as plays such as “Collaborators” which played at the Rondo Theatre last June. This week sees his latest play “Flatpack” appear at the same theatre with the same company, RTC, in a world premiere.

Director of “Flatpack”, and “Collaborators” last June, Matt Nation says “I directed Collaborators at the Rondo last year. It went very well, and John was kind enough to support the production. So when we jokingly asked him if he had any more scripts up his sleeves – we weren’t really expecting him to say yes. But here we are – a brand-new John Hodge play”. And John himself says “Watching ‘Flatpack’ come alive for the first time has been a privilege and a great experience”.

But enough of the show’s program’s plagiarism as review padding! “Flatpack” centres on a young married couple David (Richard Chivers) and Hannah (Naomi Miller) who buy a run down flat with excellent views of the railway, who have best friends Fiona (Sophie Kerr) and Tom (Rob Finlay). The flat is sold by an estate agent Philip (Jon Thrower), and this is all more than ably supported by an unnamed police detective (Andy Fletcher), equally unnamed doctor (Verity Neeves) and kitchen designer and wannabe artist Ryan (Toby Farrow). David’s life is thrown into disarray when he received not a death threat but a death announcement – June 27^th 2025 is his final day of life. His increasing fixation with his impending death somewhat glosses over his relationship with Hannah, who falls for the charms of another, and his volun-selected triathlon training. Not to mention him succumbing to a femme fatale herself finding the idea of his approaching alleged death erotic. The detective provides a narration/ Greek chorus role piecing the story arc together and used as a MacGuffin to tie up plot lines. David returns again and again to the Doctor, who themself flits between altruism, greed and compassion with his story-line. Ryan is an over confident kitchen designer feeding his own internal lack of self esteem aching for an alternative life to which he was never suited, and finally the estate agent is one of those annoying characters in life that you can never seem to get rid of and you are never really sure why they are there – we all know the type.

The writing is unsurprisingly absolutely superb. The story arc moves smoothly with no fat, incorporating clever – nay brilliant! – time line and intra-scene flips to create a seamless transition from the “now” to the future and back again at all times explaining and developing David and Hannah’s relationships. I particularly liked John Hodge’s little homage to his own play “Collaborators” with a tiny reference to an unseen and barely mentioned work colleague of David’s with regard to the unforeseen effects of a rashly invented suggestion.. The set (Production team, Yvonne Paulley, Alex Oliviere and cast) is simple but highly effective – itself used as the flat’s front room, cafes, restaurant, wine bar, friend’s dining room, street corner, doctor’s surgery, garret flat, police station and a bathroom all created impeccably with a sofa, armchair, dining table, a kitchen unit, street lamp and a hidden boudoir. Not to forget either the as ever excellent tech provision by Alex Latham all held together by stage management from Alana Wright and Maria Finlay. A mention must also go out to the costumes – which at least for Fiona were simply stunning, and for Tom an intriguing stream on a set of shirts… the cast all provided their own wardrobe and it proved to be a superb directorial touch.

The casting was simply perfect. The characterisation just exquisite. Not a single weak part – testimony to great writing, great acting, great direction. Richard Chivers excelled as the uncertain, distracted and overwrought David as his life begins to unravel around him as his fixation with flatpack kitchens increases. The connections are provided in the play itself but the analogies of his marriage and a uncompleted kitchen unit combined with the juxtaposition of his social entropy and kitchen improvements are clear and the perfect holistic encompassing of the overall story. Naomi Miller as Hannah was as sweet and loving as a wife can be but we see the cracks in their marriage early on and her falling for the louche charms of Toby Farrow’s Ryan is a natural result of David’s loss of focus on her; Ryan is wonderfully cringy and hilarious in turn.

Sophie Kerr’s Fiona and Rob Finlay’s Tom as their best friends are wonderfully awful. Self-centred to a tee, their portrayal of a couple blundering through life as social panzers is hilarious. Tom is obsessed with triathlon and promotion, bung full of toxic masculinity and without an empathetic bone in his body. Fiona as catty as can be, happy to see those around her fail – and never more excited (and jealous) of others’ misfortunes. Verity Neeves as the doctor shows great skills in presenting youthful compassion, with personal greed but eventually shows her caring side at one time being the only person that actually sees David for what he is going through and has become.

The estate agent, Philip, played by Jon Thrower does a great job of being the spare part in the whole play – the annoying character that keeps turning up for no real reason, not particularly impressive as an estate agent… so why does he keep getting in the way of David’s life?

That just leaves the Detective played by Andy Fletcher. Andy does a phenomenal job – as mentioned before Greek chorus and MacGuffin combined. And a harmonica player to boot as well as a handy publisher of useful kitchen safety tips…

Overall a wonderful world premiere to get to see. How lucky are we all to have such a chance to see this at a community theatre performed by such an adept company with such great writing.

So does David actually die on July 27^th 2025? Far be it for me to spoil the ending – there’s one way to find out though!

“Flatpack” shows from March 26^th to 29^th at 1930 at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath.

Tickets from https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/bath/rondo-theatre/flatpack/e-vkmvkq

Headline Tickets For Devizes Arts Festival Available Now, And What Else is to Come?!

Tickets for the headline acts at Devizes Arts Festival are up for grabs now, and the rest will follow for general release on April 28th, unless you become a ‘friend’ of the festival, in which case it will be the 7th April…and why wouldn’t you?!

We all love Devizes Arts Festival here at Devizine, which opens on Friday 30st May and runs right up to Sunday 15th June. If you promise not to go breaking my heart, I’ll tell you what’s happening there…yeah, I know, you couldn’t if you tried!!

The festival opens with headliners, Kiki Dee & Carmelo Luggeri at the Corn Exchange on the evening of Friday 30th, and an exhibition by local landscape artist David O’Connor, who draws inspiration from Paul Nash, and ceramicist Richard Phethean. The exhibit will run throughout the festival at White Chalk Gallery in the Old Swan Yard.

Saturday 31st May sees multi-award-winning teacher, composer and organist Chris Totney returning to Devizes to give this year’s Festival Organ Recital; one of the very first times you’ll get to experience the new pipe organ that has taken the best part of a year to install in St Johns Church. Followed by one of the UK’s finest Latin bands, K’Chevere, at the Corn Exchange.

Sunday 1st June, there’s a walk with Judy Hible of Wiltshire Geology Group, and furniture-maker Stewart Linford hosts a fascinating and informative talk on “Luxury in Wood” at the Peppermill (free fringe event.) But all eyes will be on the skies, when space scientist and BAFTA-nominated presenter of “The Sky at Night” Maggie Aderin-Pocock, pops in for an inspiring exploration of the universe.

Monday 2nd is time to get interactive, in a writing session with members of Devizes Writers’ Group, exploring writing fiction or nonfiction, one of the first workshops at the festival this year. Tuesday sees an enthralling and earth-moving evening of gardening talk with TV’s top gardener Frances Tophill. Wednesday is the turn of bestselling crime and thriller writer Felix Francis, for a fascinating talk on mysteries in the world of thoroughbred horse-racing. And Conan Doyle expert David Stuart Davies’ ‘Sherlock Holmes: The Last Act,’ directed by award-winning director Gareth Armstrong, plays at the Wharf Theatre, with a second performance on Thursday. Also find guitarist and singer-songwriterAnna Ling at St Andrews on Thursday.

Friday 6th, join Rowde’s only botanical artist and author, Ann Swan, for a workshop in her studio, while ceramicist Keith Brymer Jones will talk about his life as a creative potter and his experiences as a judge of The Great Pottery Throwdown at The Corn Exchange.

Saturday 7th June, and you’ll find the Sunday Times bestselling author of “Miss Austen”, Gill Hornby talking with Mark Jones from Fantasy Radio, a demonstration by the Devizes Regency Dancers (free fringe event,) and an electrifying country show with all-female Country Chicks.

Another walk on Sunday, gosh, they do like their Sunday walks, this time with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust’s Nick Self, conservation lead for North Wiltshire. Then it’s over to The British Lion for some Welsh frontier roots music with Whiskey River, (free fringe event.)

Monday 9th June you can join print-maker Hannah Cantellow at her Printmaking Studio in Rowde, or learn some crossword secrets from Times Puzzle Master Tim Moorey, who has been solving Times crosswords for over 50 years, on Tuesday. Tuesday also sees virtuoso clarinettist Sarah Williamson and soloist and chamber musician Simon Callaghan.

Wednesday 11th sees singer-songwriter Miranda Pender presenting a darkly humorous talk which includes five original songs based around some of the more bizarre stories unearthed from her family history. And Two Queens, One Nation at the Wharf Theatre, Miriam Cooper’s one-woman show exploring the unavoidable collision of dynamic sovereigns and cousins, Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots.

Photographer and naturalist Stephen Davis is at the Cheese Hall on Thursday 12th, and jazz saxophonist Julian Costello brings his quartet to the Town Hall.

Friday is comedy night as Mark ‘Taskmaster’ Watson, celebrates twenty years in standup. Multi-award-winner, YouTube cult figure, Radio 4 favourite and recently ‘Baby Reindeer’ actor, Mark comes to Devizes after seasons at the Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Edinburgh comedy festivals.

Author of English Civil War historical fiction series ‘Divided Kingdom’, Charles Cordell is with us on Saturday 14th June. His writing has received high praise in editorial and readers’ reviews alike, his latest novel, ‘The Keys of Hell and Death’, is set between Wiltshire and Somerset in July 1643. Followed by the Bath Male Choir in St Johns, and Torbay’s five-piece 80s party band Riviera Dogs at the Corn Exchange.

For the final day of Devizes Arts Festival, Sunday 15th June, author Charles Cordell finishes his talk with a guided walk and discussion of the Siege of Devizes in July 1643. Journalist, writer, and experienced skydiver Sally Smith is at Devizes Books talking about her book ‘Magnificent Women and Flying Machines.’ And Bath-based instrumental jazz-infused blend of Levantine mystery, Balkan passion and Latin rhythms quintet Radio Banska bring the Arts Festival to a dynamic close at the Cellar Bar. Both of these last two events are free fringe events.

Tickets for the headliners are on sale now, all others will be on sale from HERE on April 28th.

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Wiltshire Music Awards: Results and Ups and Downs

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Wiltshire Music Awards Begins with George Wilding at The Three Crowns

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Wiltshire Council in Turmoil…Apparently!

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DOCA’s Young Urban Digitals

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Jol Rose’s Ragged Stories

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“Antony and Cleopatra” at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, October 18th 2025.

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Vince Bell in the 21st Century!

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Stone Circle Music Events Wiltshire Music Awards 2025: Programme

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Deadlight Dance New Single: Gloss

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Bradford-on-Avon Green Man Festival Returns In May

Experience the Bradford on Avon Green Man Festival, a vibrant, family-friendly community gathering featuring traditional dance, music, song, and folklore throughout the town centre on Saturday 10th May 2025 (9.30am to 6pm). And the best part is, it’s free!

Witness over 50 dance groups, including 500 dancers and 120 musicians, featuring Morris dancing and diverse European styles.

Join the whimsical journey of our 10ft tall Jack in the Green and Jill in the Green, visiting 12 town centre venues with bands and fantasy beasts.

You’ll also discover the kid’s zone, artisan market, community hub, pagan arts and crafts.

Groove to a samba band, mummers’ play, Folk Club stage, Wiltshire Music Centre stage at Holy Trinity Church, a great venue with fantastic acoustics, Blues @ The Shoes stage, live pub music with English folk music in The Canal Tavern organised by the regular BoA session players, The Dandy Lion hosting an Appalachian session, French music outside in the sun at Timbrell’s Yard, buskers and more!

A Friday night launch party at the Wiltshire Music Centre is always a great start to the festival. This year it is on Friday 9th May, and they’ve booked the fantastic John Martyn Project.

The full programme is available on the BoA Green Man Festival website: boagreenmanfest.org

The BoA Green Man Festival has something for everyone – so dress up for the day and really get into the swing of things.

Date: Saturday 10 May 2025

Time: 9.30am to 6pm

Location: Across Bradford on Avon

Website: boagreenmanfest.org/welcome/

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“A Bunch of Amateurs” at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, October 13th-18th 2025.

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Does Pop Music Really Stand The Test of Time? Sixties Tribute Night at Devizes Corn Exchange Could Be Our Only Hope!

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“Veronica’s Room” at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, January 27th-February 1st 2025

By Ian Diddams
Images by Jeni Meade

No aficionado of 1960s and 1970s horror films would have missed seeing “Rosemary’s Baby”, a story of Satanic pregnancy, based on the book by Ira Levin. Shortly after that book’s release, Levin write a stage play “Veronica’s Room” which followed “Rosemary’s Baby” tone of horror with a disturbing, psychological thriller.

The Wharf’s production opens with a furniture draped bedroom, which is soon revealed to be Veronica’s room. The entire play is set in this room which in itself gives off a creepy, dark atmosphere; you can almost smell the mustiness of the dingy, sparsely furnished bedroom. A bed, chaise-longue, table and chairs, wardrobe… and a barred window. Director John Winterton and his team designed and created the set and its ominous undertones, and the tech team produce eery lighting, subtly and extremely effectively fitting for this play. Without providing spoilers it’s however fine to say the costumes required for the story fit the requirements perfectly. And as ever Gill Barnes and the costume team have come up trumps to further set the period and the characterisations.

It’s a short play timewise – two acts comprising eighty minutes in total, plus an interval. But it is far from short with plot twists and turns, and as each new piece of information unfolds, we are drawn into a darker and more sinister world each time. The cast of four work well together to deliver Levin’s increasingly twisted story, with John’s direction keeping the pace exactly right at all times.

Jax Brady plays The Woman, embracing all the mood swings and dialects with ease, the perfect loving partner to The Man played by Gary Robson, whose sombre delivery is befitting of his character’s inner turmoil and glimmers of hope, of his love for The Woman whilst uneasy with their shared knowledge. Abigail Baker plays The Girl around whom the plot centres; at first brazenly flirtatious, then finally broken, desperate and terrified. The Young Man – the object of The Girl’s desires – is played by Cameron Williams who also has challenging characterisation and manages it sublimely.

It would be fair to say that “Veronica’s Room” is also challenging for the audience – it is a horror, and a psychological one at that, preying on one’s mind. Levin’s story is a slow burner to begin with but as Act 2 in particular progresses it becomes a runaway train with hard hitting realisations developing the full horror coming thick and fast. The cast and crew have created a super rendition of Levin’s story that will surely have you checking under your bed when you go to sleep afterwards…

“Veronica’s Room” is performed at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes January 2th to February 1^st at 7.30pm each evening.

Tickets available online and from Devizes Books.

“Jerusalem” at the Mission Theatre, Bath, January 21st-25th.

By Ian Diddams
Images by Gail Foster

What is reality? Is it the cold light of everyday activities? Is it the symbiosis of contemporary time and ancient natural forces beyond our ken? Is it the raddled memories of mind altering drugs? Or is it a mixture of all of those combined, as personal perception sways between LSD flashbacks, inexplicable encounters, and simple bullshit?

Next Stage Theatre Company bring Jez Butterworth’s 2009 play “Jerusalem” to The Mission Theatre, Bath, this week. In a thinly disguised setting of Pewsey (Wiltshire), which is named Flintock but where the pubs names are all real pubs, the play centres on the character of Johnny “Rooster” Byron (Richard Chivers) who along with other characters in the play are based on actual Pewsey-ites, some of which still live in Pewsey today.

The story is a twenty-four hour period of Byron’s life, focussed on fair day on St. George’s day, and his interactions with his loyal friend Ginger (Sam Fynn), various hanger-on young people (“rats” as he calls them) Davey (Bryan Mulry), Pea (Sophia Punt), Lee (Jonathan Taft), Tanya (Miranda Webb), the senile Professor (Dave Dunn), somewhat dodgy publican Wesley (Brian Hudd), ex-girlfriend Dawn (Tania Lyons), local council officials intent on evicting him Mrs Fawcett (Tania Lyons) and Mr. Parsons (Andrew Ellison), Byron’s son Marky (Spike Fynn), and the lost teen Phaedra (Dilys Hughes) and her angry dad Troy (Andrew Ellison).

As the course of the day and night unwind, we experience Byron’s warped vision of his world as he tells ridiculously tall and impossible tales interspersed with somewhat surreal anecdotes and harsh truths. We see he is a very flawed character – he is in no way a hero, and very much an anti-hero. His criminal and abusive nature is laid bare, where he despises everyone that surrounds him, even his longest lasting and loyal friend Ginger… with the exception of Marky his son, who he shows genuine affection for (while avoiding any paternal commitment), the Professor and seemingly fifteen year old Phaedra – about whom we are left with a rather disturbing suspicion as to their underlying relationship.

The set is wonderfully portrayed as a clearing in “Roosters Wood”, all ramshackle a mess as you could possibly imagine as an illegal encampment of a broken down caravan’s site surrounded by old garden implements, wood burning stove, boxes and crates, woodland detritus and the remains of Byron’s own drug addled vandalism amongst other assorted accoutrements. Ann Ellison directs the show with an exquisite touch over the banality and failure of Byron’s life – as well as creating the set along with Brian Fisher – and the performance though lasting over three hours rattles along at such a high pace there is never a dull moment. Neat little touches abound – as characters get drawn into Byron’s world, they become coated in straw and woodland detritus, while Byron himself stays clean of these. It is telling that as Lee is to leave Flintock for pastures new far away he is clean of all this woodland connection. Even the Professor ends up covered in straw as his own senile alternative reality merges seamlessly in the renegade aura of the campsite.

Tech is provided by Kris Nuttal, Brian Howe, and Andrew Ellison as they set the scenes of bright morning, sun dappled afternoon and dark and threatening evening. No spoilers here but some cleverly worked backlighting towards the end relieves the audience of unpleasantness while leaving nobody with any doubt as to what is happening. Vanessa Bishop leads costume to perfectly place the setting in the modern day.

Which leads us then back to the actors. A lovely mix of ages as befits the story, all sell their characters believably. I was so drawn in at one stage it was a jolt when I realised that I was watching a work of fiction, and this wasn’t “real” – so kudos to the company for creating a fully immersive environment here. Richard Chivers is quite simply superb as the thoroughly egocentric but dangerous Byron. Sam Fynn is wonderful as his lifelong and lost, almost desperately childlike, sidekick Ginger. The “teens” of Jonathan Taft, Bryan Murphy, Sophia Punt and Miranda Webb believingly display youthful male exuberance and teenage slapper. Dave Dunn portrays the heart tearingly sad bewildered and confused doddery old man. Brian Hudd is cringingly excellent in his portrayal of the seedy and low-level dodgy publican who is really no different to the teens while in his own way abusing them as much as Byron is.

Spike Fynn gets Marky spot on as a conflicted nine year old … “Do I love my dad? Do I like my dad even? Do I trust my dad?”. He sells his character precisely through his physical acting as much as Butterworth’s lines. Tania Lyons and Andrew Ellison double up their parts seamlessly – to the extent that especially for Tania I hadn’t even realised she played two parts until I checked the program after the show! And Dilys Hughes as Phaedra is quite sublime… ethereal, fairy like, other worldly… and even when that dreamy existence comes crashing into real life, she still keeps an entirely child like innocence despite our suspicions that what happened in Byron’s caravan may not be so innocent…

So – back to reality. Or various versions of it. From fairies and elves, tall tales and taller creatures, nature’s ancient powers. Drugs. Dreams. Cognitive breakdown. Youthful inexperience and ignorance. Bullshit. All of these variations feature prominently in Jez Butterworth’s powerful text, culminating in Byron’s final monologue as his life crumbles around him and he calls upon everything in his warped mind to help him as he subconsciously seeks an answer to the big question, which he has already passed the point of rationalising…

What IS reality?

“Jerusalem” by Jez Butterworth is performed by Next Stage Theatre Company at The Mission Theatre, Bath between January 21^st to 24^th at 7.30pm, with a matinee on Saturday at 2 pm.

Tickets from https://www.missiontheatre.co.uk/tickets or on the door if any left.

Devizine Review of 2024 Part 1: Jan to July

Featured Image: Gail Foster

All other image usage here was credited on the original articles, to locate sources again would take a long time, so please accept my apologises. If you see an image you own and wish to be credited for it, please ask. Thank you.

Okay so, three days into 2025 and my chicken kiev parped at me. Is this an augury?! A prediction of how this year is going to play out?! Even my dinners will be farting in my general direction? Que sera sera, we’re not looking forwards, we’re looking backwards, at how 2024 passed here at Devizine Towers…..

Start with stats, ‘cos after 2023’s doubling on hits from 2022, we failed to make a similar hike, achieving about 9% less hits than 2023. I’m not going to lose sleep over it, it was a great year, but figure there’s a few reasons for this drop. Firstly, despite a shock general election, I’ve tried to avoid controversy and local political satirical slants as much as possible. Unfortunately it’s often me playing the grumpy old toad which gains attention, but I really wanted to focus more on arts and entertainment news, as that’s our ethos, the spoof and opinion articles are just me, abusing the platform to magisterially backseat drive.

Result, though; we rid ourselves of Tory tyrants, in parliament at least, there’s still work to be done to obliterate the impact and ingrained cluelessness of elitist robbery of the working class and have a fairer system for all. What’s my opinion of Starmer so far? Not impressive, that’s for sure, but by comparison with the circus of thieves which was the last government I think we’re in a better place overall. I’m certainly not going to jump the bandwagon in disparaging him, knowing the alternative is this growing trend for fascism. Though it’s not the shouty sort of fascism of the Third Reich, it’s more ignorance is bliss, pie n chips, pint in hand C3PO gammon nescience. But, enough said about that!

Other reasons for the slight drop in hits could be due to the rising cost, my own fatigue and motivation to head out; I do worry what will become of Devizine with my aging and possible inability to get to gigs and events. A massive thank you must go to our contributors, then. Though submissions can be sporadic, we always need budding writers, especially younger ones to keep what we’ve built here, and report on happenings, because left up to local press we’d be doomed; they seem to favour national clickbait headlines over supporting local arts and entertainment, but likely they deem it is their only way to keep their heads above financial waters. I can’t blame them, but I can have a sly quip or two about it!

It is the accolades we receive from those talented locals which we promote and highlight which keeps me going with Devizine, and I thank them for motivating me. That is therefore where the concentration should be now, not on politics.

Another is top secret, but if you’ve been contemplating that Devizine simply isn’t funny anymore, I’ll reveal my best jokes are being saved for a book I’m near to finishing. I think you’ll like it, it’s absolute filth! And lastly, currently I’m so utterly fed up with social media. It’s all so bloody serious, nothing is taken with a pinch of salt, nothing is carefree or amusing. And if I do publish something on there for fun, the jokes fly over someone’s head, they take it the wrong way, get offended and execute a witch hunt against me. It’s all so petty and obnoxious, akin to road rage, rather than the creative outlet of its potential, and likely, original intention.

If it’s not bombarding me with targeted adverts as a constant reminder I’m getting old, like care homes and life insurance, it’s flooded with utter crap, often using AI to illustrate misinformation and promote the rightwing bias of the owners, attempting to sway the masses; and it works too, that’s why they do it.

As a result I’ve massively reduced my screen time for such wet fart dribbles. I’ll share our articles on our social media platforms, but rarely feel inclined to interact with the gusto I once did. It is a shame, and it means you need to bookmark our wonderful website and check into it generically rather than wait for your social media platform to prompt you. Otherwise, fuck it, I’m doing this for bugger all reason, nearly as less than a few pennies it might yet generate. A fundraiser event may be a necessity now, at least an excuse for a much-needed party to lift my spirits! It is January though, a depressing little bugger, our annual review usually turns into whinge!

January

January I’m usually in hibernation, many are, so previews of events to come are more common as I hide in my hubby hole. Last year we ran ones on The Magic Teapot Gathering, the first line up announcements for My Dad’s Bigger Than Your Dad Festival, N’Faly Kouyaté of the Afro-Celt Sound System coming to Wiltshire Music Centre, and of course, the Bradford Roots Festival of which dragged me out of my cosy pit for! Two previews for new initiatives in Devizes worthy of previewing in January too were Palooza, a house night to happen in March, and Devizes Youth Action Group’s U18 gigs, both at The Exchange.

We announced a Lego Club starting at Devizes Library, and looked at courses in the art of chocolate at HollyChocs. I reviewed The Importance of Being Earnest at the Wharf Theatre. Andy ventured out to Long Street Blues Club, but for me, it seems the year begins with The Bradford Roots Festival, blooming lovely that occasion is, then I go back into winter hiding again!

Bookworm time, and Jan saw a review of Sorrel Pitts’ novel Broken Shadows; undoubtedly the best read we’ve ever reported on. And of course, recorded music reviews came thick and fast during those winter months. Albums from Billy Green 3, Richard Wileman and Daisy Chapman. Singles from Sienna Wileman, Nothing Rhymes With Orange, and Ushti Baba.

In the news, politics was brewing for a general election, we talked to the Melksham-Devizes Primary on where best to place our vote. We also reported on the sewage in the Kennet, and the MP who voted to strip legal duty on water companies to reduce harm caused by storm overflows. Yet regardless of all of this, the highest hitting article of the month by far was about a lost dildo found by dog walkers in Quakers Walk; you can’t make up a golden scoop like that!!

February

Still wintery, we looked into SoupChick’s new art gallery in Shambles, Valentina, celebrated thirty years of the Devizes Writers Group, the Kidical Mass bike ride calling for safer streets in Devizes, the Worton & Marston Brownies needing volunteers, and the Swindon Palestine Solidarity charity dinner. But my personal favourite was Darren and The Chocolate Factory, when I joined a family workshop at HollyChocs!

Other memorable events of Feb cannot be topped after Gaz Brookfield’s Village Hall Tour arrived in West Lavington. Though I also recall with fondness the Errol Linton Band at Long Street Blues Club, The Worried Men at the Pump, and Deadlight Dance at The Southgate. Ian gave us a review of Vince Bell at the Southgate, and Carrie at The Rondo Theatre. And we welcomed a new writer, Florence Lee who reported on Devizes Youth Action Group’s First Club Night.

Music in review came from Cracked Machine, The Lost Trades, The Jon Amor Trio, Jol Rose, and Talk in Code. We previewed The Beat at The Cheese and Grain, the Jesus Jones tour, Devizes Pride, Gaz Brookfield, Mantonfest 2024, The Scribes at The Pump, and that The Marley Experience was coming to Devizes.

March

Politically we had a clue to the change in the tide, with a historic Lib Dem win in Marlborough Town Council, shame the trend didn’t carry onto the GE there. We reported on a Palestinian Children Memorial in Swindon, and a Palestine protest at Labour Party fundraiser. We had a recap on the good work Devizes Clean Up Squad do, and opinionated on Wiltshire Council’s threats of prosecution against Wiltshire Music Events’ posters in Devizes.

I think the hero of the month goes to our bravest 7-year-old, Chloe, who slept out for Devizes OpenDoors. Though Chloe’s feat might yet have been slightly upstaged by our Brian, who discovered Led Zeppelin’s mystery thatcher, became a national hero to prog rock fans, and was the subject of a Wiltshire Museum exhibit.

We previewed FearFree’s fashion show at the Condado Lounge, Devizes Musical Theatre’s Sister Act at Dauntseys, our Shelly on the wheels of steel at the Muck & Dunder, and Devizes Arts Festival. Andy went to Cinelli Brothers at Long Street Blues Club, Ian gave a review of “RENT” at The Rondo Theatre. I had two unforgettable nights out, when Ian Siegal joined the Jon Amor Trio at the Southgate, and the first Palooza got me dancing my socks off for my birthday at The Exchange.

An album from Deadlight Dance and singles from M3G, Atari Pilot, and Life in Mono got covered, and we rediscovered our Chrissy from as yet unformed band Burn The Midnight Oil, providing vocals for drum n bass tracks. Oh yeah, I had a rant at those ranting about the Glastonbury line-up too!

April

April fools, of course, when we headlined “Devizes Road Resurfacing Plan Abolished Due to Dinosaur Fossil in Pothole!” The rest, though, was sadly true. Wiltshire Police Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson lied through his teeth, Amnesty in Salisbury responded to the Rwanda Bill, and Michelle Donelan’s fake magazine campaign leaflet was promoted by drink driving fox hunter Jonathan Seed. Meanwhile, Wiltshire Council continued to gloat about prosecuting fly posters, attacking Adrenaline Stompers in Westbury this time, whilst The Marley Experience concert in Devizes was attacked by some nasty Facebook posts, falsely claiming it was cancelled.

But away from nastiness, Chloe raised £600 for Devizes OpenDoors and we previewed Devizes Lions’ sponsored walk for the homeless charity too. The Peppermill started an open mic. We also previewed Simply The Best; Tina Turner Tribute at the Corn Exchange, The Female of the Species fundraising this time for Rainbow Early Years in Trowbridge, two teenage punks bands appearing at the Pump, Steatopygous & SHOX, a Bradford Roots session special with Bill in the Lowground, Daisy Chapman & Thieves, the Patsy Gamble Jazz Trio in Bromham, White Horse Opera’s Puccini’s “La Boheme” at Lavington School,

Six:Teen Edition, Devizes Music Academy’s first show, Palooza’s second night at The Exchange, and Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival, which I attended and loved!

Reviews also from James and the Cold Gun, Lucky Number Seven, Nobody’s Dad, The Real Cheesemakers at The Pump. Jinder and Mark Harrison at the Queens Head in Box. Barrelhouse at The Southgate. Roughcut Rebels and The Clones at the Three Crowns. Shox & Steatopygous supporting Menthol Lungs at The Pump. The Lost Trades at The Piggy Bank. Six:Teen Edition. “Skylight” at the Rondo Theatre. “The Thrill of Love” and “And Then There Were None” at the Wharf Theatre, and The Marley Experience came to Devizes and everyone loved it regardless of the grandstanding whingers!

May

A month of ups and downs, we previewed Professor Elemental, Madam Misfit and the Real Cheesemakers at The Barge on Honeystreet, Frome Festival, White Horse Opera’s Mathieson Trust fundraiser with Anup Biswas and The Brand New Heavies at the Cheese and Grain. We reviewed music from LilyPetals, Courting Ghosts, Nothing Rhymes With Orange and Poppy Rose.

We talked about Affordable school costs for all, Swindon families uniting in memory of innocent children killed in conflict, and while Vicar Gerry Lynch faced a soaking at Pottenre fete, St James Devizes Vicar Keith Brindle was honoured as a Canon of Salisbury Cathedral! But sad news was to hear Devizes International Street Festival was cancelled, and funding was needed to keep Confetti Battle going ahead. And Tonka Bean was closing too.

Events picked up though, Ben hailed the Beaux Gris Gris gig the best Devizes has ever seen. Meanwhile I was with Illingworth and catching up with George Wilding at the Crown in Bishops Cannings. Andy attended Peter Knight’s Gigspanner at Pound Arts Centre. Ian covered “The Incident Room” at the Rondo Theatre, “Sister Act” at St. Augustine’s, and “The Thrill of Love” at The Wharf Theatre. There was a homecoming gig for Nothing Rhymes With Orange at the Three Crowns, and another one of those nights when I went on a round robin tour of live music in Devizes, at Long Street, The Southgate and Three Crowns. The only time for a spoof article that month was for one headlined “Labour Party Could Change Star Wars Day to ‘Sci-Fi’ Day so to Not Offend Trekkies!”

June

June is about going out! Ben gave us reviews of Jim Blair and the Mojo Makers at The Beehive, Swindon, and Robert Vincent & Ryan Davis PAs at Marlborough’s Sound Knowledge. I caught I See Orange at The Pump with Devizes-own Steatopygous.

Ian checked out “The Collaborators” at the Rondo Theatre, and “Where’s The Cat? Live!” at the Wharf Theatre, and then there was Devizes Arts Festival which we all covered as extensively as possible.

A Junco Shakers at The British Lion, The Slambovian Circus of Dreams, The Sound Of Blue Note, Duo Tutti, Martin Simpson, Belinda Kirk, Lucy Porter, Ida Pelliccioli, Adam Rutherford, Edward Cross Quintet, Dr. Phil Hammond, Jolly Roger and The Cable Street Collective all reviewed, mainly by Andy, but a few by myself and Ian too, even had one from the Wharf’s own John Winterton. What a great year for Devizes Arts Festival, my personal favourite? Easy, that was Lady Nade.

All this and I still found time to preview Devizes Scooter Rally, the return of Devizes Youth Action Group gig nights, and FullTone Festival’s youth-supporting extra day. Review music from Talk in Code and Rosie Jay. But if anything kept me busiest, it was interviewing candidates for our MP post, Green Party candidate for Melksham-Devizes Catherine Read, Labour candidate Kerry Postlewhite and Lib Dem candidate Brian Matthew. It was an honour to meet them all, and I enjoyed chatting to them in New Society. Any one of them had the potential to do a more honest job, but there was something about Brian which made me think, hey, that’s the guy for the job; the best thing about it, a majority agreed with me; crazy times!!

July

And so, it came to be. After fourteen tiresome years of Conservative lies and robbery, continuously leaning further into far right extremism, openly promoting hate and dividing the nation, they got thrown out of there, but didn’t take it on the chin! “Michelle Gonelan Makes History,” was one article we published to make fun of the knicker-twisted attitude of those poor losers. Furious Tory supporters took to local Facebook groups, and we made fun of that too, with a headline deliberately in caps-lock, “WOK SNOWFLICKS GIT THERE KICKS ON DEVIZS ISSUES (BIT BETTER) THIS ELEKTION!” And then, even our county council leader wept like a baby over the new government scrapping the Stonehenge Tunnel! Oh, such fun!!

We continued to focus on DOCA’s fundraising efforts, and took a recap visit to Devizes OpenDoors too. But July is festival season, and we were too knee-deep in sunny vibes to worry about the disgruntled minority upset with the election result.

Firstly, it was a shame Devizes Scooter Rally and the Full-Tone Festival had to be one same weekend, such that I attempted to do both but spent most of my time cruising from one to the other, great though they both were. And it was a time when our recommendations came to pass, as Meg was booked for a rather smashing MantonFest, and The Sarah C Ryan band played DOCA’s Picnic in the Park, in which I played compere, in a giraffe onesie! Happy days.

Ian went to My Dad’s Bigger Than Your Dad Festival, in Old Town Gardens, Swindon, and I popped over to check out Minety, and crowned it the best local festival I’ve been to. Other great nights out included Talk in Code & Laissez Faire at The Southgate, Ian reporting on The Rob Lear Band at The Piggy Bank, Calne, “Faith” at the Rondo Theatre, and “Macbeth” at Cleeve House, Seend.

We also previewed the next season at the Wharf Theatre and announced there were only a few remaining tickets for Trowbridge Festival. Events, events, events, that’s what summer is for, not worrying about politics, it all ends with the same poor results. I believe it doesn’t matter who is at number ten, and while it’s probably better to have the last lot gone, we will never recover this financial pothole until we ALL face up to the fact the cost of Brexit has ruined us, and until we accept it and freely discuss without prejudice and arguing, what we can best do to recover from it, instead of blaming the current government for problems rooted in politics long before they won, we will see those comforts the UK have become accustomed to drop from us one by one. The closure of venues, pubs, shops, event organisers, the hardship of creatives, the general disillusionment that a new government can fix it overnight, all paints a very gloomy picture. Therefore, as I said at the beginning, I’m done with politics, and feel Devizine should focus on supporting the arts and entertainment as much as possible.

And that’s the end of the first half of this 2024 review, we’ll see a lack of political matters during the last six months of the year, and a new ethos of positivity in the face of such gloom…..I hope!!

Discovering Swindon Story Shed

With Dad’s taxi on call in Swindon and a few hours to kill whilst her majesty is at the flicks, it was fortunate local author Sorrel Pitts posted a thank you on Facebook yesterday evening, to all who helped promote her fantastic book, Broken Shadows. Because, as well as Devizine for reviewing it, she also mentioned an intriguing thing called Swindon Story Shed…

Not having heard of this travelling bookshop literacy project before, I thought I’d poke my nose in, being they had a popup bookshop in the Brunel shopping centre and with said hours to kill I’d only otherwise have spent stuffing my face in Greggs!

Swindon Story Shed is a partnership project by Debi and Nick. The latter was running bookshelf errands while Debi managed the shop. A self-confessed bookworm, Debi explained the ethos of the project. Alongside this lovely travelling bookshop with an arts and craft space, the two also hold free creative writing workshops at Swindon’s Central Library, book signings, workshops on immersive storytelling, in which Debi explained they were looking to create a “walk-through” story, and last year they hosted a “BloodShed Crime Fiction Festival,” of which I believe Sorrel took part in, hence the connection.

The ethos was basically anything books, and they had interesting ways of promoting reading and writing for all ages. Support for local authors self-publishing, there were book-related handmade gift items and books Debi pointed out designed for both children and adults with dyslexia or learning disabilities. They even had little cuddly burger toys with a book in its zipped inside; loved that especially!

Whilst there were modern books, self published or by small publishing houses you’d be unlikely to find in commercial bookshops, there were mainstream reads and a few classics. I browsed through a collection of DC Thompson annuals from the 60s to 80s, but Debi told me while they had graphic novels, they didn’t display them here because the wonderful Incredible Comic Book store was opposite, of which I also felt inclined to pop into afterwards.

She spoke so enthusiastically about the Shed, telling me how personal it was to them; she had read every book of the shelves! Debi reviewed books for distributors, and had advise for aspiring authors; imagine, I could have chewed her ears off all day, about books, publishing and local related enterprises, but a young boy came in with his mum, early for a storytime session, and was put immediately to work, creating some bookmarks!

From the Percy Jackson series and anything YA fantasy to Nick’s more artistic reflections in manga and sequential storylines, 3D paper sculptures, and art classes, this is simply an enchanting literacy venture. Driven with such passion, Swindon Story Shed is living proof that literature can be exciting and interactive without the need of tech; this was a place of pen and paper with no sign of a tablet or device, yet with far more universal appeal than the niche of zine culture. It’s just a friendly place for book worms of any age.

The popup bookshop is only at the Brunel until Sunday, but you can find out more about The Swindon Story Shed on their website HERE and Facebook page HERE. There is a Crowdfunder HERE to help Debi and Nick find a permanent base, but Debi was adamant that this wouldn’t lessen the “travelling bookshop,” aspect to the project.

What a nice discovery and first article of the year. And, for the record, I still found time to stuff my face at Greggs; what? Turns out you save money having a side of wedges. Who knew?!!

Avoiding the Drizzle: Devizine Online Christmas Market!

You should know me well enough by now to accept I don’t beat about the bush; it’s supermarkets and chain-store’s own silly fault for the rise in popularity of the Christmas Market, for lavishing their shelves with uninspiring commercialised, plastic rubbish!

There, there, got that off my chest! Now, Christmas Markets are popping up locally faster than Santa on Christmas Eve, but if you cannot make it to one, or simply prefer to shop in your jimmy-jams, here’s some ideas for Christmas presents we’ve found which won’t break the bank, and support local crafters…Welcome to the Devizine Online Christmas Market, jingle your bells!

DIY it, with Pins & Needles!

One affordable and genius idea springs to mind; do-it-yourself. For as well as personal and unique designs by owner Vixter Woolista, Pins & Needles in Snuff Street Devizes has all your knitting and crochet needs, and an online shop too, here. With a fabulous range of accessible crochet and knit kits, patterns and gorgeous hand-dyed yarns, Pins & Needles is a little shop with a big heart, and winner of the 2020 British Knitting Awards for best yarn shop in the south west.

Good Reads!

We don’t get as many book reviews from local authors as we’d like, but this year saw two great reads, which would make ideal presents for your book worm.

First up, Sorrel Pits published Broken Shadows, and this has to be my personal favourite novel I’ve ever had the pleasure of reviewing. A gripping thriller based locally, this really is a page-turner. Here’s the review, you can grab this from Devizes Books, or online here.

This year also saw local author Molly Anderson’s Dad’s New Dress, an emotional rollercoaster of searing honesty into family ties and commitment. Reviewed here, at Devizes Books and online here.

Polish up on your cooking!

Novel idea we hope your recipient won’t take the wrong way, cookery classes at The Farm Cookery School on Bromham’s Netherstreet! They have adult and children’s courses available, and various Christmas meal related workshops too! Christmas baking masterclass anyone? Beats a can of Christmas Tinner!! Find them Here.

Chocolate, of course!

Hollychocs in Poulshout, award-winning chocolates; need I say more, other than you shop online for them, HERE.

Getting Crafty

Upstairs in The Healthy Life Company in the Little Brittox, Devizes, you will find the most fantastic display of Christmas gift ideas, many sourced locally. We reported on this last year, see here. Find them online here.

Bramblerose Designs is by local artist Ginnie Burns, stocking lots of Christmas gifts and cards, fantastic tie-dye T-shirts and prints of her colourful local landscapes. Find them HERE.

Cositas Bonitas in Albion Place on Sidmouth Street, Devizes has beautifully handmade crafts, like personalised baubles and cute drawstring Christmas sacks, knitted advent calendars, decorated jars and decorations. Find them on Facebook, here.

Merlin Glass Studio & Gift Shop in Woodborough Yard is run by crafter Louise Spink, has some great Christmas craft workshops, and sells beautiful decorations and glassware designs. How can you resist these little robin brooches? Awl! Find them Here.

Moonflower and Me has original hand illustrated artwork, handmade resin & clay Items and more fascinating gift ideas. Check out their magical mushroom terrarium baubles; gorgeous! Find them Here.

Over the Yarnarm is a small, unique business cruising the British waterways, bringing a touch of handmade warmth to every corner they visit. Operating from a cosy liveaboard narrowboat, sharing our passion for all things yarn. Find their Etsy shop here, be a star and grab yourself a knitted star!

Enter artist Matt Baker’s World of Thoodles. Don’t know what a Thoodles is? Find stickers, prints, stationary and badges of these colourful kawaii fashioned monster characters here. We think they rock, and I’m 51 years young! Find Thoodles HERE.

And lest we forget the white bear at Christmas, Arthe! Lots of prints and some fantastic Christmas tees up for grabs, HERE! Find Arthe Christmas cards at Black Dog Coffee on Couch Lane.

That’s all folks! Well, there’s bound to be many more jumping the bandwagon once they see this, expecting me to do a thing called “editing,” I’ve heard it’s all the rage these days. Have a lovely Christmas everyone, here’s our Christmas card video message, filmed on location at DOCA Winter Festival, by Jess…..

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Riot Grrl in Devizes? Steatopygous Release Demo

Featured Image: Kiesha Films

In times of pain or stress cats mimic the cry of a human baby to best attract attention. You may not like it, but if you don’t address the situation and aid the pet, you are unfortunately part of the problem. Riot Grrrl is a subcultural movement of anti-punk feminism deriving from the USA’s northwest in the nineties, which, like it or not, has found a new resting place in Devizes thanks to rising teen band Steatopygous…and with a debut demo, they’re rightfully attracting attention too.

Not Devizes you may whimper, our affluent yet insular market town steeped in tradition, where the most commonly reported crime during October this year was violence and sexual offences, more than double the second on the list, this anti-social behaviour we’ve got a bee in our bonnets about? Seems a rather apt location for youth’s screams of anger and frustration at the inequality of patriarchy to me.

Dealing with issues facing youth, our town’s newcomers, riot front-grrrl Poppy Hillier, bassist Eliza Brindle and drummer Ewan Middleton may well have facetiously named their band after an accumulation of fat on the thighs and/or bum, but their musical subjects are far from ironic or amusing. Neither are they the female answer to NRWO, with their blithe and amicable indie-pop style. This is artistically righteous, a freedom of expression, and just like the cat’s meow, you’d better take heed.

Stalwart support act at Trowbridge’s Pump, a venue dedicated to hosting the upcoming, whereby I saw them first, in June, despite our much younger reporter Flo singing their praises prior, when headlining Devizes Youth Action Group gigs. Steatopygous delivered varying themes there, such as one song on the crisis in Gaza. But the two tracks released on this demo, recorded by Kieran Moore at Komedia, concentrate on matters closer to home and traditional to the ethos of Riot Grrrl; boys taking advantage of a male-dominated world.

Cassowary, a bird with unusual reproduction behaviour which sees the male tend the egg while the female seeks other mates, is the metaphoric name for perhaps the most composed tune of the two. With archetypal driving drums and laden guitar it’s short, fiery and in your face, but perhaps not so aggressive as the other tune, Little Boy, which is a style-defining peach. Angry and unabashed, it takes no prisoners.

It is the screech of utmost exasperation, the deliverance of cries typically bottled or only released alone. And therein lies the brilliance and reason of Steatopygous, this erudite anti-sensitive artistic licence opens a matured eye to the vexations and anguish of youth, particularly identifying the uneven game of love and all its sordid undertones. Or if you fall into the category subjected and victimised by the behaviour expressed so poignantly by Steatopygous, theoretically there’s the emotive response of identifying with it and not feeling alone with your troubles.

This is thunderously original and raw, daring samaritan punk, released on Trowbridge’s cassette label Sketch Book Records, which if it honours anything, it’s this wholly DIY ethos of Riot Grrrl, and though will remain niche, is something you cannot ignore; phew, I might need a little lie down now!!

Merch at Bandcamp. Instagram. Spotify.

They support Perennial at the Pump on 7th December.

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“A Streetcar Named Desire” at The Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, November 27th-30th.

by Ian Diddams
Images by Josie Mae-Ross and Infrogmation

Tennessee Williams’ quasi autobiographical drama “A Streetcar Named Desire” was first performed in 1947 as the world emerged from years of global conflict. That war had changed things for ever in many ways … while in others, many things remained the same. Williams’ own family’s misfortunes and situations are threaded throughout the play, but while those may have been in reality based in the 30s and 40s the issues he raises – of misogyny, bigotry, domestic abuse, violence, homophobia, and social snobbery – are as obvious today as they were almost eighty years ago.

As titles go though, it may well have been simply named “The Fall and Fall…. And Fall of Blanche DuBois”

The eponymous streetcar ran on the line of that name in New Orleans until around the time the play was first performed. Its simple plot is that of Blanche DuBois and her fall from status, grace and finally sanity. Surrounding her is her sister Stella, who abandoned their cocooned life years before, Stella’s husband Stanley, a course, uncultured “Polak,” and their abusive relationship is mirrored by their neighbours Steve and Eunice.

A glimmer of light comes Blanche’s way in the guise of Mitch, seemingly gentler and more appreciative … until he turns, showing his shared heritage with the other men. Blanche descends into madness as her airs and graces so vilified by Stanley slip away to expose her own seedy recent past, and her own bigotries, while exposing the other womenfolk’s tightrope walk through their marriages.

This is not a light play. It would come with plenty of trigger warnings – domestic violence, homophobia, rape, alcohol abuse, to name but a few of them. That the company present these challenging aspects convincingly without descending into casual titillation or merely seeking to shock is tribute to their acting skills, the direction of Heidi Street, and the set and technical wizardry on display.

There is another aspect to heighten the senses, and bring New Orleans’ Latin Quarter into this pleasant eastern suburb of genteel Bath, UK. The show’s very own jazz band of Tom Turner, Peter Tucker and Yvonne Paulley providing the appropriate Louisiana style soundtrack to complete this exquisite holistic production.

Not content with playing clarinet as above, Yvonne also appears as the Nurse and a rose seller with a fine command of Spanish, and in-between those two demands also produced the show. Accompanying her and is another clearly ridiculously talented man, Tom Turner swapping his saxophone to play the Doctor as the stranger whose kindness Blanche, for a final time, relies on. Toby Skelton is another all-rounder who aside from stage managing all of this also appears as the Young Man, while Riza Domi is obviously far more sensible, with just the one role of Pablo, one of Stanley’s poker playing buddies.

Neighbourly Steve and Eunice are subtly portrayed by Tim Carter and Sophie Kerr, all lovey-dovey and lustful – until the pans begin to fly. Tim Hounsome sensitively plays Mitch, Blanche’s almost love interest – until his urges almost overtake him and finally his own prejudices come through. Stella is sympathetically portrayed by the excellent Lauren Arena-McCann who as an American herself – albeit from New York State and not Louisiana also doubled up as unofficial voice coach! Her portrayal of an oppressed wife trapped in a caustic, abusive relationship in which she acquiesces easily to her own lustful urges, while protecting her sister from a world Blanche cannot comprehend is painfully perfect. Matt Rushton delivers Stanley cringingly well too… his physical presence, large voice and overbearing character is full of unspoken menace the entire play; of course, to Stella but also to his drinking and poker buddies who he controls through fear.

Which simply leaves Blanche DuBois. Lucy Upward is the very essence of Southern belle – sophisticated, used to the finer things in life, seeking to move in the right social circles… but exposing the cracks in that edifice as the story unfolds. Delicious flirtatiousness, demure repose, increasing intemperance and the slide into insanity as her Walter Mitty world collapses around her. Lucy captures these airs, moods, and madness perfectly – she IS Blanche DuBois.

The set is a marvel – a perfect setting to portray a cramped two room apartment in the confines of a community theatre. Muslin roman blinds provide discreet views of more intimate – and jarring – moments while the rake of the stalls provides the upstairs flat from Stella and Stanley’s own. Costumes by Chrissie Fry as ever from her, capture the times and characters so well, from Blanche’s diminished trousseau to Stanley’s slobbish attire replete with hideous bowling shirt.

There is false hope, there is pain, there is self-delusion, there is despair. But overall, at the Rondo this week, with a sold out run, there is a Streetcar… named Desire.

Christmas in Devizes: Everything Happening From Now Until NYE!

Being as we received a taster of wintery weather to come this week, I believe it’s okay to use the C-word; yes, Christmas!!

Here’s everything we’ve found to do in and around Devizes, so far, from now until New Year’s Eve, in addition, of course, to decorating trees, picking all the toffee pennies out of the Quality Street tin, and enjoying watching Hans Gruber fall from the Nakatomi Plaza….

Do remember though our event calendar is constantly updating, so do keep an eye on it, as more events may well be added when they’re brought to our attention. And if you’re in another town, check our event calendar for events in your area; sorry you are not included here, we still love you, but there’s only so many hours in a day!

Lets go from this weekend, but be warned, there’s a lot to get through. Ongoing photographic exhibition at the Valentina Gallery, opposite SoupChick in the Shambles, ends on 2nd December.

Thursday 21st November sees an Evening of Mediumship with Psychic Medium Nikki Kitt at the Corn Exchange.

Friday 22nd: Public Living Room is open at the Cheese Hall from 1.30-4pm. John Girvan’s celebrated Ghost Walk of Devizes, takes on a Christmas spin. You find tickets at the Wiltshire Museum website. Queen tribute Qween UK plays the Corn Exchange. Recommended trip out of town: boom-bap legends The Scribes are at the Barge on Honeystreet.

Saturday 23rd November: and there’s a Sighthound Stroll at 12pm. Devizes Eisteddfod’s Junior Showcase at the Town Hall. The FullTone Orchestra is at the Corn Exchange with an 80s special, so get your rah-rah skirts dusted and ready.

The Sylvertones are at The Three Crowns. The Ben Fletcher Band at The Southgate. DJ Emilo is bringing in the sounds at the Exchange. And for a short trip out of town, I recommend The Killer Circus show at Market Lavington Community Hall, with a double-header of mod-indie, britpop and ska with The Killertones Underground and 6 O’clock Circus. Or The Publicans at the Royal Oak, Pewsey.

Sunday 24th, The Duskers are at the Southgate for 5pm start, same time, it’s nice to see live music back at the White Bear too; Andrew Hurst kicks those Sunday Sessions back into gear.

Tuesday 26th sees Devizes Lions Bingo Night at the Conservative Club.

Wednesday 27th, don’t forget the acoustic jam at the Southgate.

Thursday 28th – do not miss this, the fantastic Ruby Darbyshire is doing a Fantasy Radio Live Lounge from 7pm at The Pelican. The Last Thursday of each month is also open mic time in the Cellar Bar of the Bear Hotel, from 7:30pm.

Friday 29th is the Winter Festival, on go the lights and Christmas begins officially in Devizes!

12:00 – 20:00: Indoor & Outdoor Markets and Creative Installations. Lantern Parade at 18:30. 19:00 is Christmas Light Switch On. Window Wanderland begins and runs until 2nd Dec. Look out for the Cascade Chandelier, in the Shambles!

There will be several opportunities to get crafty over Winter Festival weekend with bookable artist-led workshops. More workshops will be dropping soon, so keep an eye on DOCA’s social media! Willow Reindeer Workshop from 10am to 4pm at the Yeoman Room, Corn Exchange. Sarah Jayne Edwards works in willow in all scales, she made the Sanctuary that appeared on the Green in Devizes 2023. Spend a day with her where she will support you to create your own beautiful willow reindeer.

All materials will be provided on these creative workshops, no experience needed. Event capacity for each is only 8 people. Participants must be aged 16 years or over. There are 2 free places allocated for low-income participants, no questions asked. If you would like to claim one of these places, please email: info@docadevizes.org.uk

Elsewhere in Devizes, the fantastic People Like Us are at The Three Crowns, it’s the Pour House’s official opening party, and karaoke at the Pelican. Big Plus: it’s panto season at the Wharf Theatre with the opening night of Hansel & Gretel; this is superb, I’ve seen the rehearsal, you’re going to love it, young and old. Hansel & Gretel continues until 7th December, tickets are sold out, but you can join a waiting list.

Saturday 30th sees a Devizes Lions book sale at St Mary’s Church.

Devizes Outdoor Celebratory Arts Winter Festival continues, presenting ‘Crow’ by Avanti Display. ‘Crow’ is a beguiling, genre-defying, beautifully odd show. It teases us with strange images, magical clowning and bewitching visual images. Accompanied by a live inventive score. Video projections expand their comic and curious world, suggesting ideas both profound and absurd. This is a ticketed event at Sheep Street Baptist Church and starts at 6pm.

Also part of the Winter Festival, from 10am to 3pm, there’s an Outdoor Market with Music & Street Entertainment, and Makery Sessions Craft Workshops at various times. Porcelain Christmas Decorations Workshop at Parnella House from 10am to 1pm, with Geraldine Francis.

Contemporary Wreath Making Workshop at 2pm to 5pm at Parnella House with Nancy Rose Stott, an accomplished maker, best known for her amazing hats. All materials will be provided, no experience needed. Event capacity: 8 people only. Participants must be aged 16 years or over. There are 2 free places allocated for low-income participants, no questions asked. If you would like to claim one of these places, please email: info@docadevizes.org.uk

There’s also a Christmas Wreath Making Workshop at Poulshot Village Hall, not DOCA related.

Groovedream at The Three Crowns. Red Light at The Southgate.

And relax, it’s Sunday, but it is December 1st! Curious Kids: Winter Fun at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. The Pelican has a winter festival Christmas Lunch. JP Oldfield is at the White Bear at 5pm, the Jon Amor Trio residency at the Southgate, same time, and One More Shot at the Black Horse.

Monday 2nd, find a new open mic session at the Pour House, set up by the one and only JP Oldfield; very busy boy atm!

Wednesday 4th December: acoustic jam night at the Southgate.

Friday 6th sees a new regular acoustic session on Fridays at The Southgate, this week has JP Oldfield, Sammi Evans & Bryan Davies playing. White Horse Opera presents some Christmas Music at St Andrews. It’s Christmas Mixup night at the Exchange.

Saturday 7th, there’s a tour behind the scenes at Wiltshire Museum, and another Ghost Walk Christmas Special with John Griven.

The Shudders are at The Southgate. James Mitchell at The Three Crowns. The Coco Club Christmas Ball at the Corn Exchange. Christmas Party at the Exchange. Recommendations out of town, find a reggae night with Knatti P at the Barge on Honeystreet and Ruby Darbyshire at the Woodbridge.

Sunday 8th sees a family Christmas Party at West Lavington Village Hall in aid of Julia’s House. Sunflower Events Christmas Fair at the Corn Exchange. Christmas Fayre at The Barge, Seend Cleeve.

Music at the Southgate from 5pm with The Wholesome Soul Trio.

Wednesday 11th, acoustic jam at the Southgate.

Thursday 12th is the second Exchange Comedy Night for The Mayor’s Appeal.

Friday 13th there’s Devizes Good Afternoon Choir’s Christmas Invitation with Children from Wansdyke School at St Andrew’s Church. Young Curators Club: Mid-Winter Celebrations: Yule and Saturnalia at Wiltshire Museum.

Saturday 14th: Table-top Sale for Camps International to Peru Trip: 12-4pm at The Wharfside. LECTURE: Digging for Erlestoke by Leigh Chalmers and Dr Phil Harding at Wiltshire Museum. And the opening of a new exhibit at the Museum, Megalithic Connections – Drawings & Etchings by Dave Gunning, which runs until 22nd Feb.

Christmas Market at Hillworth Park, in which Santa is fully booked, but he’s also at, Breakfast With Santa at the Fire Station! Santa! Hey! I know him!

The Big Sound Christmas Concert at the Corn Exchange. Sour Apple at the Three Crowns, The Worried Men at The Southgate. And Karl Maggs has got the Jingle Bangers in the mix at the Exchange.

Sunday 15th, Wish Tree Gathering from 3-5pm at Quaker’s Walk. Devizes Town Band Christmas Party at the Corn Exchange. And Manos Puestas at The Southgate at 5pm.

Wednesday 18th, acoustic jam at the Southgate.

Friday 20th, John Grivan’s celebrated Ghost Walk of Devizes, takes on a Christmas spin. You find tickets at the Wiltshire Museum website.

Devizes most celebrated house nights, Palooza returns to The Exchange.

Saturday 21st: Barrelhouse at The Southgate. Adam Woodhouse at The Three Crowns, and the Long Street Blues Club Christmas Party with the Thomas Atlas Band. DJ Mike Alford is at the Exchange.

Sunday 22nd is the Tractor & Tinsel Run at the Market Place. Charity Fundraiser with Burn The Midnight Oil, new band fronted by the fantastic Chrissy Chapman at The Southgate, from 5pm.

Monday 23rd: The Unpredictables at The Three Crowns, being anything but unpredictable!

Tuesday 24th: Spend Christmas Eve at The White Bear, where the one, the only Jamie R Hawkins will be singing a few songs with Vince Bell too.

Thursday 26th: The Last Thursday of each month is also open mic time in the Cellar Bar of the Bear Hotel, from 7:30. We assume this will take place as usual.

Friday 27th: Drew Bryant at The Three Crowns. Twixmas Fun Quiz at The Pelican. DJ Stevie MC at the Exchange for an after Christmas Party.

Saturday 28th: The Killertones Underground at The Southgate; nice one!

Tuesday, New Year’s Eve: find Soundhog Karaoke at The Three Crowns. Back to Skool New Year’s Eve Party at the Pelican. The Original PJ & Mister M at the Bear Hotel. DJ Karl Maggs at The Exchange, and NYE Party at Seend Community Centre; Happy New Year!

That’s your lot, unless there’s something we missed? Tell us about it, please do, we can add it, it isn’t going to cost you anything more than being nice to me when you see me next! I hope everyone has been good all year, and wish you all a merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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“The Real Inspector Hound”, at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, November 8th 2024.

by Ian Diddams
images by Playing Up Theatre Company

When is a mousetrap not a mousetrap? When it’s written by Tom Stoppard…
If you have seen “The Mousetrap” you may find elements of “The Real Inspector Hound” quite familiar. Or alternatively, if once having seen “The Real inspector Hound” you then progress to seeing “The Mousetrap” you may find elements of that show quite familiar…

“The Mousetrap” of course being a play by Agatha Christie that is the London West End’s longest running play, performed ever since 1952 with only a lockdown enforced break in all that time. Famously, audiences are asked not to reveal the solution. Tom Stoppard, allegedly, found this requirement somewhat tedious and so set out to write his own, similar, play. You would ideally want to see both however to fully understand what he created.

“The Real Inspector Hound” is also famously known for being a play-within-a-play; that is, a play in a theatre where the story is about a play. Stoppard though arguably takes this one step further especially as the surreal activities of the second half of the play unfold, as it becomes a play within a play within a play… the complexities of what that entails are best learned by seeing Stoppard’s excellently bizarre play!

The Playing Up Theatre Company present this show this week at the Rondo, Theatre, Larkhall, on the eastern extremities of Bath. In it they take Stoppard’s already surreal comedy and add even more layers to it… not only is their performance of Stoppard’s urine extraction of Agatha Christie, but they have added hilarious homages to “The Play That Goes Wrong,” “Acorn Antiques” and even “Monty Python,” especially in the first half – the second half is bonkers enough to not need any additional layers, but the surrealism is excellently portrayed with good pace and no blinking of an eyebrow – audiences need to stay awake and in tune and to have listened attentively to the opening fifteen minutes to get all the nuances going on!

Stoppard used to be a theatre critic himself, and uses this knowledge as a vehicle to extract the urine to that demographic. The two critics, Moon and Birdboot, played by Andrew Chapman and Simon Shorrock respectively, certainly portray two characters full of self-importance and one upmanship, though from opposite ends of the ethical spectrum and the two actors capture this interaction excellently. James Coy adeptly and gruffly spins his way around the stage in a wheelchair as the physically challenged brother-in-law Major Magnus Muldoon, overly protective of his sister-in-law and threatening dark retribution to any man displaying intentions towards her. But is he what he seems to be ?

The star of the show – if one may be permitted to pick any one actor out of a superb line out anyway – for me though was Anne Hipperson as Mrs. Drudge the housekeeper. Her self-confessed homage to Mrs Overall from “Acorn Antiques” is perfect – some exquisite comedic timing. The only thing missing from the portrayal was Stoppard failing, sadly, to provide her with a line of “Two sugars” during the painfully brilliant coffee scene.

Simon Gascoyne, smooth, suave, and sophisticated wooer of women was played by Jordan Phillpots, oozing self-confidence and smarm from every pore, while Felicity Cunningham, played by Leah Brine, the breathless, suspicious, doubly wooed young lady was suitably, deliciously aghast at the abhorrent menfolk in her life.

Then there was the almost obligatory femme fatale for such country house whodunnits – Sophie Brooks as Lady Cynthia Muldoon. Outwardly a devoted wife to her missing husband, but privately a hot bed of passion for passing fancies, Sophie mixed M’Lady’s brooding, sultry character in the farcical first act, and surreal second half to perfection, another actor with perfect comedic timing.

Which leaves just Inspector Hound himself – as ever perfectly played by the ever talented Richard Chivers. Or then again – is he the “Real Inspector Hound”?

That leaves just one more character on stage … mentioned several times, but hidden, then revealed – twice. No names, no pack drill, but the character never puts a foot out of place, and remains faultlessly in character and on stage for the entire show.

The set, by cast and crew, is a simple one as befits a typical country house murder mystery, with the use of the Rondo’s rear “cubby hole” option as the theatre seats used by Moon and Birdboot. Costumes fitted the period setting of 1930s upper class types, and technical design, operation and support was handled with aplomb by Darian Nelson and Emily Smith. This just leaves kudos for wonderful direction by Darian Nelson, abetted by superb stage management – also stepping into the fold of tech team for technical reasons – by Diluki O’Beirne.

I can’t praise this performance enough. From the pure delivery of Stoppard’s farcical surrealism, to the directorial tweaks and homages so well delivered by the cast, to use of Bluetooth technology to really sell on stage audio, everything gelled so well.

So all that remains now is to advise you all – go and see this play wherever you can and see if you can spot who is… “The Real Inspector Hound.”

“The Little Mermaid” at St. Augustine’s, Trowbridge, October 30th–November 3rd, 2024.

By Mick Brian
photos by Chris Watkins Media

Disney aficionados will need no introduction to “The Little Mermaid,” Disney’s 1989 film about mermaids falling in love with humans based very loosely on Hand Christian Anderson’s tale. By 2007 Disney had crated a stage musical version which officially opened on Broadway in 2008, with a later modification in 2012. But what Broadway can do, Trowbridge can do too, and this week Trowbridge Musical Theatre (a.k.a. TMT ) bring “The Little Mermaid” all the way from New York City and an undersea kingdom to St. Augustine’s Catholic College for our delectation.

This is a challenging production to pull off, with a huge cast, and multiple characters and costume changes, massive choreography numbers and immensely technical requirements, but TMT manage it sublimely in a packed and fast paced show. With a cast so vast its not feasible to list every single person sadly but it is fair to say that everybody involved brought something special to the performance. Added to which a brave decision to play it with American accents as per Broadway worked really well – kudos to all for not grating, and being thoroughly believable as sons and daughters of Uncle Sam.

Lets begin with the orchestra – with ten musicians and Kate Courage M.D. you can already appreciate the scale of this production. From the opening marvellous overture to the last note the orchestra were simply great.

The technical team brought the stage craft to life aided and abetted by some wonderful directorial touches by director Matthew Heaton… the pièce de resistance being the beautifully simple yet effective use of wave sheets to represent the sea, operated excellently by the younger members of the cast and especially effective in the ship wreck scene – top waving by Emmi-Mae Cao, Elsie Cunningham, Iris Cunningham and Sam Hodgman. More kudos to the tech team and set designers with excellent projected backdrops and a few simple but effective set pieces.

Of the principals all provided great characterisation. Alex Ball as Flounder was a standout performance, Noah Heard as Eric executed his role as a prince falling in love at first sight to perfection with a voice that was creamy, dreamy and effortless with great diction, voice agility and ability. Triton’s daughters (all seven of them) proved wonderfully catty in their roles, and collectively strong with a great sound.

The evergreen Tim Hobbs was as brilliantly crabby as he ever is as Sebastian with some wonderful comedic touches, while Sarah Davies diva’d her way fantastically through the show as the wickedly creepy Ursula, with her wonderfully strong voice as ever.

She was superbly accompanied by the dynamic duo of Frankie Walker and Daisy Woodruffe as Flotsam and jetsam, Ursula’s henchmen eels who worked really well together. Ariel was the archetypal Disney princess portrayed to a tee by Katy Pattinson – gorgeous and tiny, with such a pretty voice and moved about the stage nicely. Her chemistry with Eric was particularly good, and as a pair the complemented each other well. Her Act two performance in particular as a mute was really well executed with some strong physical acting, communicating superbly with facial expressions. Her scene of learning to walk was choreographed and performed extremely well.

Which brings us to the ensemble. Oh. My. Word. Ensembles make or break a show and here was a show that was made. Extremely strong in everything they did, they deserve a full bow of their own for the multiple costume and character changes required, as they sang, danced, and acted their way through being gulls, maids, sailors, chefs, princesses and the already praised “Wave” team. A specific mention here to Paul West as Scuttle the head gull with a strong comedic lead. But all members of this vast ensemble were worthy of their places I hasten to say!

Choreography by Anna Mazan was a huge feature of the show, and the time and effort put in by her and her protégés was evident. “Under The Sea” was a triumph – fantastic, energetically colourful, a massive carnival with bubble machines, jellyfish parasols and so much more in a cavalcade of splendour. You’d need to watch it many times over to catch everything that was happening on stage.

Costumes were simply fantastic. Just wonderful. A little fish told me that they weren’t without some teething problems on their arrival, but the wardrobe team did the cast proud. Chapeau!! (If you will pardon the pun).

It’s a huge show. And its running in Trowbridge, at St. Augustine’s Catholic College until Sunday 3^rd November, tickets from https://trowbridgemusicaltheatre.co.uk/tickets/

What’s Happening During November in Devizes?

Remember, remember, we’re moving into November; leaves, loads of ‘em! Being as we are no longer doing weekly roundups, here’s some highlights of events in Devizes during November, but do pay attention, there’s lots more listed on our event calendar, from all over our county, and it’s always updating, so keep checking in HERE too!

Dave’s birthday beer festival at the Southgate, for the entire weekend and into Monday. Find Sammi Evans, Josh Oldfield & Gordon Thompson there on Friday 1st, and Courting Ghosts, I believe, are there on Saturday; not sure about the rest, but I think the focus is on the beer; if you can focus on beer! Happy birthday, Dave!

Talking taps, we send our best of luck to The Pour House, taking over the old Vaults in St John’s Street, Devizes. It’s their grand opening on Friday 1st.

On Saturday 2nd, there’s a tap top sale in Couch Lane, we have the Lions Club Arts Coaching Day, and Quakers Walk Community Biodiversity Group are bulb planting and preparing wildflower beds. Sunflower Events host a Christmas Market at the Corn Exchange from 11am to 6 on Saturday, 11am to 4 on Sunday.

While those Roughcut Rebels return to the Three Crowns, and Dave’s birthday beer fest continues at the Southgate, Mississippi MacDonald Band kicks off a long month of gigs at Long Street Blues Club, with Sons of the Delta in support. Isosceles Theatre Company are at the Wharf Theatre on Saturday, with a performance of Murder; Just What the Doctor Ordered. In aid of Swindon & Devizes Sands, there’s a Back to School disco at the Wyvern Club.

Sunday 3rd, it’s Devizes Fireworks at the Football Club. Jon Amor Trio residency at the Southgate. A concert in Chirton too, see poster below!

Monday 4th, The Opening of the Garden of Remembrance at the War Memorial, 10.45hrs.

Wednesday 6th, the regular acoustic jam night at the Southgate, of course!

Thursday 7th, Devizes Film Club is at The Wharf, with a screening of Finnish film Fallen Leaves.

Friday 8th, Muck & Dunder have a DJ set from Dub Pistol Barry Ashworth. Devizes Arts Festival presents a night of comedy at the Corn Exchange. And The Devizes Eisteddfod opens for Music, Speech & Drama, and runs until 17th November 2024.

Saturday 9th has the Provincial Booksellers Fairs Association’s Book Fair at the Corn Exchange from 10am. Stone’s Throw are at The Three Crowns. And while Swindon’s amazing folk ensemble SGO are at the Southgate, The Ian Siegal Band are at Long Street Blues Club with Ruby Darbyshire in support, both unmissable!

Sunday 10th: Remembrance in Devizes. 09.15hrs Muster in the Marketplace. 10.00hrs Church Service at St John’s Church. After service Reform in Long Street. 11.00hrs Last Post-Two Minutes Silence- reveille Wreath Laying and Parade Marches Back to Marketplace.

Mr Griff & The Grifters play The Southgate, Devizes, from 5pm.

Monday 11th: Remembrance in Devizes. At the War Memorial: 10.45hrs for The National Two Minutes silence.

Wednesday 13th, sees the regular acoustic jam at the Southgate.

Friday 15th find the brilliant Siren at the Three Crowns.

Saturday 16th there’s a Mynt Image Craft Fair at the Corn Exchange, from 10am. Free entry and a great range of superb quality products.

John Otway makes a welcome return to Devizes, at the Long Street Blues Club, and Billy and the Lowground in support; a different night for the club, highly recommended this one!

Wednesday 20th, sees the regular acoustic jam at the Southgate. Devizes Flower Club is jingling all the way to the Corn Exchange.

Thursday 21st and there’s an Evening of Mediumship with Psychic Medium Nikki Kitt at the Corn Exchange.

Friday 22nd Queen tribute act, Qween UK at the Corn Exchange, no excuses for spellings from us, that is what it is, lets hope they will rowk you!

Saturday 23rd you can find The Sylvertones at The Three Crowns, but not a lot else I’ve heard about as of yet. Time maybe to pop over to Lavington for this….

Wednesday 27th, sees the regular acoustic jam at the Southgate.

Thursday 28th head down to the Pelican, where Fantasy Radio presents a Live Lounge with Ruby Darbyshire. Also, it’s open mic night at The Cellar Bar, Bear Hotel from 7:30pm.

Friday 29th is DOCA Winter Festival, lights switching on, lantern parade, mulled wine, Devizes Town Band playing Santa Claus is Coming to Town, and all the gubbings; and that’s when I’m officially in the Christmas mode! Window Wanderland runs from here until 2nd Dec, and the fun continues into Saturday too!

Double-whammy, the Hazel & Gretel panto opens at the Wharf Theatre on Friday too. Note, due to popularity they’ve added dates, and it runs until the 7th December now. I will be going to see it long before you, and I’ll be here to tell you about it; what? Perks of the job!!

Also on Saturday 30th, ever popular covers unique trio People Like Us will be at the Three Crowns. White Horse Opera at Market Lavington Community Hall.

That’s all for now, folks! Did I miss something out? Did you tell us about it?! We update all the time, so, rest assured more will be added when they come in, and if you cannot find something to entertain you here, you can leave town! In a nice way, you understand, we do have roads and Devizine lists events within range of Devizes as well as in Devizes; so remember, remember, to check the EVENT CALENDER!!

And Here is December; Lynx deodorant sets time!

“Cosi Fan Tutte” at Easterton Village Hall, October 11th 2024.

by Ian Diddams
photos by Gail Foster

Devizes based White Horse Opera has a fine and longstanding tradition of a touring opera – a show taken the length and breadth of Wiltshire (and even further!) performed at various village halls, theatres and churches as venues. Recent past operas have included “Die Fledermaus”, “The Mikado” and Ruddigore” and their latest offering is Mozart’s slightly bonkers “Cosi Fan Tutte”. On Friday last the dress rehearsal was produced for the “Friends of W.H.O.” another of their traditions where the great and the good gather to indulge in swathes of cheesy comestibles and stunning music.

Mozart penned his Italian language piece in the 1780s when he was in his thirties. It’s a comedy, albeit arguably somewhat a chauvinist one leaning heavily as it does on the alleged capriciousness of women – the title loosely translated as “Women are like that”. The basic daft premise – like all the best highbrow theatre of course – revolves around the unlikely disguising beyond recognition of two men (Guglielmo and Ferrando) such that their betrothed (Fiordiligi and Dorabella) will not recognise them, and so the farcical consequences may then ensue. Naturally there has to be some ne’re do wells that first set up this unlikely scenario (Don Alfonso) and abet it (Despina).

The flirtatious and easily swayed girls are played by Barbara Gompels and Paula Boyagis, who in the duets in particular sweetly complement each other. Regular watchers of W.H.O.’s performances will need no further introduction to this talented pair, as indeed they will need no further introduction to Jon Paget who played Guglielmo, more than ably twinned by Robert Felstead as Ferrando as the pair of soldiers tasked by Don Alfonso played by the evergreen Lewis Cohen to trick their girlfriends in being unfaithful as part of a wager. Toni Johnstone completed the cast as the superbly independent and uncowed maid Despina. Jon and Robert proved an excellent comedy double act throughout their shenanigans, culminating in the wonderful disguises as what appeared to be two 1980s Australian cricketers off to the disco!

As a dress rehearsal as expected the show was ready to roll – a couple of small hiccoughs for sure but nothing to distract from the hilarious mayhem on stage. It’s a modern setting costume wise, and the set as befits a touring opera where complex arrangements are problematical, is simple … a lovely backdrop setting the countryside setting by the inimitable Chrissie Higgs, who is also set to share the role of Despina when on tour.

For those concerned that an Italian language opera will be incomprehensible to their Anglo-Saxon ears, fear ye not… as ever W.H.O.s operas are sung in English, this translation by the much missed Graham Billing who having translated the opera once, then lost it, and had to redo it. The entire translation was full of clearly identified Billingisms in the jokes whether sung or spoken. His legacy lives on and aren’t we all lucky that it does.

No opera of course is complete without its orchestra, and as so often for W.H.O. the orchestra of twenty as writ by Mozart is manfully represented by Tony James on the piano, and all pulled together by Roland Melia as M.D. par excellence. Stage Direction by Lewis Cohen completes the crew.

The tour begins soon in November in Market Lavington, but is also due to visit Bremhill, Hilperton, Winsley and Devizes in 2025, with other dates being announced all the while. And if you would wish W.H.O. to visit your local venue, maybe as a fund raiser for a local cause etc, feel free to contact them on who-enquiries@hotmail.co.uk

Meanwhile, tickets for ALL White Horse Opera events can be found at
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whitehorseopera

“Pericles” at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, October 21st–26th 2024.

by Ian Diddams
images by Chris Watkins Media, Jeni Meade.

It would be fair to say that once William Shakespeare found or invented a plot device, he wasn’t one to avoid using it again. And again. And – well… again, and again. Let’s play “Shakespeare Bingo” and “Guess the Play”…

There’s a STORM AT SEA, a SHIPWRECK, a HUSBAND is SEPARATED from his WIFE, FAMILIES are SEPARATED, each thinks the other is LOST or DEAD, somebody is thought to be DEAD but is actually ALIVE, a RULER abuses his position of POWER, there is a MAGICIAN controlling SOMEBODY, BROTHEL OWNERS, PIRATES, and in the end EVERTHING is resolved and family REUNITED.

Hmmmm. Well, it’s a tricky one. The Tempest? Twelfth Night? Comedy of Errors? Romeo and Juliet? Merchant of Venice? Othello? Winter’s Tale? Much Ado? All’s Well? Henry IV Pt 1? Measure for Measure? Cymberline? Two Gents? Hamlet?

All of these plays have at least one and often more of the attributes listed – Will liked to avoid working on new plotlines for sure. However, at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, handily enough as it turns out, placed beside boats on the water to add even more background to a tale of watery confusions, is yet another Shakespeare play reliant on all of those points.

Pericles.

No, it’s not some sort of small whelk, or a garden perennial. It’s the story of an eponymous hero who escapes from a dodgy tyrant by running away to sea and… well, you can piece the rest together from that second paragraph and Wikipedia. Needless to say, all’s well that ends well. So to speak.

Now Pericles is not a popularly performed play. Indeed, according to a 2024 ranking of most performed Shakespearian plays it comes in 22^nd of 49 positions since 2012. So it’s a real treat to be able to see it at a local theatre which may understandably have otherwise put on one of the “Big Six” [*], and running at the same time as the same play at the RSC to boot. The Wharf is no stranger either to putting on lesser known Shakespeare of course, having shown “Measure for Measure” in 2023. One reason for this wonderful opportunity to see this play is that the director, Nic Proud, is working his way through directing the entire canon – and this is his twenty-fifth play of that list, and another is the bold and open approach of the Wharf’s artistic director John Winterton.

The play rattles along – Nic has trimmed the script to the key plot points, although as he says the play is really a series of connected moments and he has created a smooth storyline using those moments. The usual top technical team (Three Ts!) deliver effects and lighting with aplomb of course, leaving the stage ready and waiting for the actors to take us on Pericles’ voyage not only of the high seas, but of his fate and inner turmoil. The set is simply adorned with white and purple drapes, which cunningly transform into a jousting tilt barrier, and ethereal wings of the goddess Diana. A roped balcony provides some height to the set.

Our titular character is well delivered by Chris Smith, one of the four cast who have only one part to concern themselves with (has two shipwrecks!), the others being Danielle Cosh as the ethereal Thaisa (dies at sea, comes back to life!) , Louise Peak as the perspicacious Helicanus, and Nic Proud as Thaliard, stepping into the role at a late stage when an unfortunate injury to Steve Brooks saw him unable to continue – we wish Steve a speedy recovery and hope he can return to the Wharf in the future.

The other six cast members play between them a bewildering array of twenty-one other characters! That list would run to volumes but huge kudos to Abigail Baker playing Marina, Pericles daughter (lost at sea – now THERE’s a thing…), Andy Bendell as the seedy bawd (!) Pander, Tony Luscombe as the dastardly Cleon (and a sailor in a storm!), Sian Stables as even more dastardly Dionyza (and a sailor in a storm!) , Pete Wallis as the vengeful Antiochus (and a pirate!), and Debby Wilkinson as a brilliant mix of servant, bawd (!), sailor (in a storm!) and fisherman!

Nic’s scissors have created a play about the length of a football match, and which is wonderfully easy to follow – every cast member deliver the lines of Elizabethan English so well that its totally understandable and comprehensible. The costumes are totally sublime so once again chapeau (see what I did there?) to Gill Barnes and her team.

All that remains to say is take this chance to see a play most theatres and companies steer clear of. And if nothing else if you will save your self a drive to Stratford and back to see it.

Pericles is performed at the Wharf Theatre from October 21st-26th^th 2024.
Tickets from https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-wharf-theatre/pericles/e-plavyr

[*] Big Six
1. A Midsummer Night’s Dream
2. Hamlet
Romeo and Juliet
4. Macbeth
5. Twelfth Night
6. Much Ado About Nothing

Wiltshire Council to Trial Street Art Wall in Melksham

Dope Wiltshire Council keepin’ it realz n ting, piloting a new legal art wall in Melksham to give artists the opportunity to showcase their talent without vandalising property; have we entered a new era for the county council, or a parallel universe?! Did they sustain a head injury breakdancing at County Hall?! Like, whatever, it’s both surprising and welcome news….

Perhaps they’ve looked at Swindon Paint Fest and seen how our nearest neighbour are decorating their town so wonderfully. The new art wall will be situated at the underpass on the A350 Bath Road in the town, and while it will continue to be managed and monitored by Wiltshire Council, a local community arts group will take on the day-to-day running of the wall, including the maintenance and cleaning of the artwork.

It will be the responsibility of all the users to ensure they keep to the specified area and adhere to the code of conduct, which includes no offensive tags and respecting all users of the underpass. All materials, such as paint and other art supplies, will be provided by the wall users, and the council will step in to remove any inappropriate artwork if required.

While this sounds subjective and restrictive towards freedom to express discontent in art, as street art often does, it’s a promising start we hope will expand into other towns. I guess we simply have to accept that the Council will be judge and jury on what constitutes “offensive.”” Not excluding, of course, the notion if they are to push too strictly on this, graffiti artists will simply go elsewhere, illegally, and the whole scheme is at risk of failure.

Image taken from this year’s Swindon Paint Fest

Cllr Nick Holder, Cabinet Member for Highways and Street Scene, said, “Graffiti is a longstanding antisocial issue across the country, and so we’re pleased to be able to trial this legal art wall in Melksham, with the hope it can be a success to roll out into other areas of the county.“

“We’ve spoken to other authorities, mostly in urban areas, that have trialled similar projects, and they have seen a fall in illegal graffiti, along with increased engagement with the community, and we hope we can do the same here in Wiltshire.“

I believe, and hope, they will be pleasantly surprised by the results, artistically, but the divide between what constitutes art and what constitutes vandalism is subjective and open to debate. Yet Mr Holder says, “We hope to see some fantastic artwork showcased on the wall once it launches later this year – along with a decrease in illegal graffiti in Melksham during the coming months.“ And I have to tip my hat to that, for while it’s too late for me and my spray paint days are over, it is the art movement of today, and like it or loathe it, it’s here to stay.

To get involved in the project, people should contact Richard Rogers, Strategic Engagement and Partnerships Manager, on richard.rogers@wiltshire.gov.uk(opens new window).

Tickets for Calne Music & Arts Festival on Sale Now

Running from the 4th to 13th October, The Calne Music & Arts Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary, and tickets for the varied events are on sale now….

Arts Festival President Carole Browne said, “in the year that we celebrate our 50th anniversary, our Patron, Dame Judith Weir, who was composer in residence at the 1975 festival, will be handing the baton to another prestigious composer, Brett Dean, who will take up the position in 2025.”

“We are indeed fortunate to have so many musicians and artists who have made their home in Calne. This is a year of many anniversaries. 40 years ago the iconic Harris factory, established in 1770, which dominated the centre of Calne and became its biggest employer,was demolished. Joseph Priestley ‘discovered’ oxygen in Calne 250 years ago. We will mark these anniversaries with special concerts and a community art project featuring over 500 pigs, painted and decorated and on view all over the town.”

“An exhibition in the Heritage Centre throughout October will catalogue, with brochures and press cuttings, the past 50 years as well as featuring a selection of chosen piglets.”

As usual there will also be the art exhibition at Marden House, presenting hundreds of pieces from beginners to internationally exhibiting artists from in and around Calne. The exhibit is open at various times throughout the festival.

Festival week starts with a free family day at Marden House, on Saturday 5th, with a 360-degree immersive Theatre Dome experience, Calne Samba Band, Clare’s Circus, a variety of activities by Calne Wordfest, Music and Art workshops throughout the day, an art treasure hunt, stilt walker and more.

Irish Soprano Michelle Sheridan Grant and Scottish Bass-Baritone Peter Grant bring you an eclectic musical evening, also on the 5th. A Gala concert which will be followed by tea, The Ridgeway Ensemble – ‘Walk in Beauty’ on Sunday. There’s also a free life drawing session, and Evensong at St Marys.

Accomplished soloist, passionate chamber musician and repetiteur for Opera Ddraig, George Fradley will perform Beethoven’s Sonata Op.109, Chopin’s Ballade No 4 and the Bach-Busoni Chaconne in D Minor, on Monday 7th October. Also The ‘Major Minors’ is a community choir bringing together children from primary schools in Calne and surrounding villages under the direction of Bethan Fryer. They will be joined by Cherhill Youth Theatre and the school choir of Heddington school on Monday. There’s “drink & draw” sessions, and Calne Wordfest Writers’ group joins the celebration of Priestley 250.

Tuesday 8th sees Music Scholars of St. Mary’s School, Calne, then some banjo with the Leon Hunt Trio. Wednesday an Art Talk by Gail Brown and Isla String Quartet. Thursday, Music Scholars of Marlborough College and world music with Eastern Strings and Nabra Trio. Friday 11th sees a clarinet recital with local clarinettist Simon Parker, Opera Anywhere’s Gilbert and Sullivan’s Patience.

Saturday 12th sees Australian now Calne artists Brett Dean and Heather Betts in conversation with Genevieve Sioka, an evening of traditional Andalusian Guitar and Flamenco dance with Flamenco Loco, Calne Choral’s Cloud Messenger from Gustav Holst Gloria-Vivaldi, and a grand finale party!

The Calne Music & Arts Festival box office is open now, you can see the full program and book tickets from HERE.

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“Talking Heads” at the Wharf Theatre September 2nd–7th 2024

by Ian Diddams
Images by Chris Watkins Media

Alan Bennet wrote his series of monologues in 1988 and 1998, with two more in 2019, centring on, though not confined to, stories of “Northern” women, based allegedly on characters he had known in his life, particularly his formative years. The Wharf Theatre has kicked off its autumn program with three of Bennet’s one woman shows performed by two new faces to the wharf, and Tina Duffin who has graced the boards there for a few years at least now.

“A Lady of Letters” with Joanna Daniel as Irene starts the evening. It’s a mesmeric tale of a nosey neighbour spinster, who fills her time writing letters complaining about smoking pall bearers, neglectful parents, prostitutes and paedophiles. We all know somebody like Irene. The vicar, the chemist and the police are the recipients of her missives – but her ill informed NIMBYISM comes home to roost as the truths behind her complaints are learned and she ends up in jail for harassment. It’s here however that she finds herself truly free and with a social life for the first time in her life…

“A Cream Cracker under the Settee” with Liz Holliss as Doris concludes the first half. Doris is an aging and increasingly frail widow, struggling to maintain her independence while being hen pecked by an – allegedly – sloven home help care assistant. Trying to stave off being moved to “Stafford House” a care home, it becomes increasingly apparent that Doris isn’t actually capable of keeping herself safe and is too proud to admit it. As in “letters” as the play progresses, we learn more and more about Doris and her life until now, each new revelation moving our understanding slightly from what we had so far understood. There is a “BANG” moment towards the end that stops the viewer in their tracks – a hitherto un-hinted at sea change in Doris’ life, if not her husband’s. This is the saddest tale of the three as we see Doris’ decline in just thirty minutes and her inevitable future.

After the interval, “Bed amongst the Lentils” with Tina Duffin as Susan is the lightest offering of the evening, although in true Bennett style this isn’t all roses and jollity. The poignancy and inner sadness of the first two monologues is still here – its rather that the ending has no changes in Susan’s life except – possibly – beneficial ones as she looks to overcome her alcoholism which becomes more evident through the story. Susan is a vicar’s wife, and stalwart of the village fete – though she finds her role as Mrs. Vicar challenging not least as we learn she has no particular skills and is an agnostic surrounded by devout church goers and an ordained husband; there’s some home spun philosophy in here which I have often thought myself. Susan is clearly if not disenchanted with her life, at least bored with it… her alcoholism spawns infidelity, though it’s this last act that ultimately leads to her salvation from the demon drink … before the object of her carnal releases gently leaves her … and she is left wistful but not sad…

If there is one over-arching theme of these plays its one of entrapment – women stuck in their surroundings – be it a home as a prison with the irony that a prison becomes a home, a home that is now an increasingly dirty house, or a boring marriage and estranged lifestyle. With all three finding release in some not so obvious ways.

All three monologues are set in similar rooms… somewhere between 1950 and 1970 in décor though as we possibly notice ourselves with older relatives – or even ourselves! – that may still be the same thirty years later of course. The Wharf’s own tech crew as ever created the sets – it’s been many a year since I’ve seen so many antimacassars. Gill Barnes and her wardrobe team as ever hit the spot with clothing befitting women of a certain age and the actors portray that well.

The actors… perfect for the roles in every way. They each capture their characters so well. Susan is every part the vicar’s wife disjointed from her immediate life, Doris the desperate widow gas lighting herself over her independence, Irene the curtain twitching poison pen shit stirrer. Every part as excellent as Maggie Smith, Thora Hird and Patricia Routledge respectively from the original BBC series in the last century.

Abigail Newton, self-released from her national CAMRA activities, returns to direct this perfect show. She has captured the poignancy, light humour and hidden tears and fears of Bennet’s slightly tortured souls in these three monologues. In the week that Oasis gig tickets were released don’t miss out on seeing this particular show … lest you look back in anger.

“Talking Heads” by Alan Bennet plays at Wharf Theatre, Devizes, from September 2nd to 7th at 1930 every night.

Tickets are available from the Wharf website at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-wharf-theatre/talking-heads/e-dezdpm

Schools Lego Building Challenge From The Great Western Brick Show

Calling all future Lego engineers! Be the Brunel of tomorrow and build a bridge to help achieve net zero…..

To celebrate the 21st anniversary of the Great Western Brick Show at STEAM at the Museum of the Great Western Railway in Swindon, the organisers are inviting local schools to take part in their Brick-building challenge to help fight climate change.

The Great Western Brick Show runs Saturday 5th October and Sunday 6th October. You can get a ticket here.

Or, schools or Lego groups can enter this fun competition for a chance to display your team’s model at this year’s show and be in with a chance to win LEGO prizes for your school. What’s awesome about that? I’ll tell you shall I? Everything!!

The challenge is to design and build the railway bridge of tomorrow to help achieve net zero.

In the same way that Brunel approached the challenges he faced with new solutions, which nobody thought possible, they would like to invite pupils to become creative about today’s challenge.

How can we solve one of the biggest challenges the planet is facing right now? Achieve Net Zero, those brickers ask.

They would like pupils to design a sustainable railway bridge of the future using their imagination to design a model that will deal with this issue.

There are no right answers to building the Lego railway bridge of the future, so pupils can solve the challenge in any way they choose. The more creative and imaginative you are, the better!

The build must consist entirely of LEGO Bricks and can include Duplo and Technic.

As the winning entries will be displayed during the Great Western Brick Show on the 5th and 6th of October, the builds must be stable enough to be transported easily and should require minimal setup.

Entries can be made by individual pupils or teams of up to 3 pupils. Other details are down to the imagination of the builder(s), but they should show creative ways of dealing with the challenge set.

For competition details and a full technical brief, see HERE, and get building!!

Lawrence Art Society’s annual exhibition at Devizes Town Hall

Impressive, in a word, is the Lawrence Art Society’s annual exhibition at Devizes Town Hall this year, in both quality and quantity; you’ll be amazed at how many talented artists there are locally….

It runs up till Saturday, drop in even if you’ve only a passing interest in art. For there’s a good range of styles and movements depicted, from the best part of fifty local artists, one founder member of the society, Elizabeth Allen, posthumous exhibits in tribute and honour. There’s some abstract, in both paintings and copper wire and stone sculptures, yet perhaps as a whole leaning heavier towards fine art, the traditional landscapes and portraits; it’s all very Devizes!

Named after Devizes’ most famous artist, Sir Thomas Lawrence, a child prodigy whose early career began here when his parents owned the Bear Hotel, in association, the Lawrence Art Society has been running since his time, but was formally established in Devizes in 1953. Annual Membership is £20, £6 for students, they have monthly meetings and live art shows at the Conservative Club; but this is their annual showstopper, and it’s free to windowshop!

There’s a few names I’m aware of, such as Simon Bishop and Jenny Pape, but more new to me than I could possibly list, you’ll just have to pay it a visit! But I give mention not only to the lovely gentleman I chewed the ears off about Hogarth, Gillary, and Victorian Children’s illustrators, and was so wrapped up in our chat I didn’t get his name! But also David Lewis for breaking the running theme with some abstract futurism, Joy Tickell for wonderful acrylic collages, Marilyn Silvester for some colourful Chagall-eske depictions of Devizes during the market, Susan Thompson for her colourful Escher-type designs, and Helen Stanfield for that, wow, monochrome oil of a Yorkshire terrier, so cute, and I don’t care for terriers much!

Browse the vast selection of near-on 260 pieces of artwork, with a chance to purchase, vote for your favourite, buy some greetings card prints, and gamble with a raffle ticket or two. I took a snap or two as a teaser, pay a visit to see for yourself. Devizes Town Hall is open from 9:30am-5:30pm on Friday, but the show will finish half hour earlier on Saturday, at 5pm.

I asked the ladies on the front desk if many younger artists join the Society, to mixed responses. While even I know of a few, such as Bryony Cox of the White Chalk Gallery, with her fantastic Turner-fashioned seascapes and clouds, there’s always a risk of losing such a founded group in the future should younger artists preconceive the group as not age appropriate for them. All I can say on this is don’t overlook the experience of learned artists as they can and will help you. I myself feel rather inspired after browsing the Town Hall today, be warned!!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 14th-20th August 2024

Here’s our bitesize look at what’s happening in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week….

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info, as it takes too much time to link them all in. It may also be updated as more events come to our attention, so check in later in the week too!

Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August.

Wednesday 14th

Quidditch is the sport for Kids Summer Sports at Hillworth park, Devizes this Wednesday.

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Devising Drama for 7-11 Years, and LEGO Stop-frame Animation for 8-14 Years at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Mizizi at The Bell, Bath.

ArcTangent Festival in Bristol opens.

Thursday 15th

Opening day for the Lawrence Art Society’s Exhibition at Devizes Town Hall. Running until Saturday.

The Ripples & Jol Rose at the Beehive, Swindon. The Little Mermaid at The Wyvern Theatre, runs until Saturday.

Friday 16th

Lost Pubs of Devizes guided tour. Devizes Camerados are at the Cheese Hall with Wiltshire Museum; help them to design a carnival banner.

Apache Cats at The Three Crowns, Devizes.

Meat Loud at the Neeld, Chippenham.

Exhibition on Screen – My National Gallery at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Band X at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Daybreakes at The Vic, Swindon. Lonely Road Band at the Beehive. Liddington Hill & King Attitude at the Castle. Men in Vests & Adriana’s Keys at Underground.

Saturday 17th

Lego & Toy Fair at The Melksham Assembly Hall. Marty’s Fake Family at the Grapes, Melksham.

Killertones at the Southgate, Devizes.

Seend Summer Village Breakfast at Seend Community Centre. Sausage & Cider Day at the Brewery Inn, Seend Cleeve.

Famous Hangover Sessions at the Lamb, Marlborough: Rave Against the Regime, All Ears Avow, Trash Panda, Band U Like, Hooch.

Floaty Boaty Event at The Barge, HoneyStreet.

D’Ska Assassins at the Bouverie Hall, Pewsey.

The Piggy Bank’s 3rd Birthday, Calne.

Unlock Reset Festival near Chippenham.

White Horse Military Show, Westbury

41 Fords at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Midlife Krisis Summer Family Fete in Swindon. Stop Stop at The Vic.

This Is The Kit at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. Sergeant Thunderhoof at The Tree House.

Sunday 18th

Heritage Walk of Devizes. Hen House Brides will host a pop-up shop in Devizes Town Hall giving brides-to-be a rare opportunity to browse the entire White Studio London and White Studio Curve collections and discover the dress of their dreams.

Will Edmunds at the Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

Open Mic at the Red Lion, Lacock.

Fly Yeti Fly at The Richard Jefferies Museum, Swindon from 1pm. Zambalando at GWR Park, Swindon from 3pm

Will Edmunds Band at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Blues Café Orchestra at The Bell, Bath

Monday 19th

DOCA’s youth filmmaking project Selfievaultion begins, see the poster for details on this.

Sliders at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 20th

Ian Bateman Quartet for Jazz Knights, the Royal Oak, Swindon.

Kiefer Sutherland at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Important note: events which come to our attention from now on, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 7th – 13th August 2024

Here’s what we’ve found in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week….

Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August.

Get Your Event Listed Here FREE – Please Donate If You Can

Wednesday 7th

Acoustic Jam @ The Southgate, Devizes

Chippenham Museum Creative Writing Group – Maud’s Way

Little Piccolos (3 Months-5 Years)

Pottery Painting (12-19 Years)

TRAGEDY: ALL METAL TRIBUTE TO THE BEE GEES + SURREAL PANTHER @ The Vic, Swindon

LGMX @ The Bell, Bath

Thursday 8th

Family Workshop: Victorian Portrait Photography brought to life! @ Wiltshire Museum, Devizes

Sparkly Singers

*SOLD OUT* SASS Circus Skills Workshop (5-13 Years)

A Different Thread – Trio

Friday 9th

Summer Crafts 4 Kids – run by Wiltshire Museum’s Youth Panel, Devizes

Rock the Tots – Summer Party! (0-10 Years)

The Corinthian Causals @ the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon

The Navigator (U) with live piano score by Meg Morley

CREATURE CREATURE @ The Vic, Swindon

Echo Den @ the Beehive, Swindon

Pete Allen’s Jazz Band – CANCELLED

Tangled up in Blues Festival @ Radford Farm, Somerset

Hillbilly Hootenanny

Ion Maiden – LIVE AT THE TREE HOUSE

Saturday 10th

Camera Amnesty @ Wiltshire Museum, Devizes

Family Workshop: Victorian Portrait Photography brought to life! @ Wiltshire Museum, Devizes

Rabbit Rabbit | A Tribute to Chas & Dave

Muddy Manninen & Patsy Gamble Band @ The Southgate, Devizes

James Mitchell @ the Three Crowns, Devizes

Seend Fete

The Vooz & Pants @ the Lamb, Marlborough

Mid-Life Krisis @ The Barge, HoneyStreet

https://thecivictrowbridge.co.uk/tc-events/fleetwood-shack/

The Radio Makers @ the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon

WIZARDS OF OZ (THE OZZY OSBOURNE TRIBUTE) @ The Vic, Swindon

Progressive @ the Beehive, Swindon

Luke Philbrick & the Solid Gold Skiffle Invasion @ the Castle, Swindon

Kavus Torabi & The Witching Tale – Live At The Tree House

Sunday 11th

Innes Sibun Trio @ The Southgate, Devizes 5pm

Cooper Creek @ The Richard Jeffries Museum, Swindon 1pm

Swindon Palestine Solidarity March: Regent Circus, Swindon, 11:30

HORIZON LINE @ The Vic, Swindon

Innes Sibun Trio @ the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon

Rag Mama Rag @ The Bell, Bath

Monday 12th

Chippenham Film Club August feature

Piotr Jordan @ The Bell, Bath

Tuesday 13th

Singing Day (7-16 Years)

CALLUM SMITH ORGAN TRIO @ Jazz Knights, the Royal Oak, Swindon

Lonely Tourist @ The Bell, Bath

Important note: events which come to our attention from now on, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

Have a good week!

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 17th- July 2024

Jam-packed July! If there’s always lots to do throughout the year, July especially so!

Here’s what we’ve found in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week….

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info, as it takes too much time to link them all in. It may also be updated as more events come to our attention, so check in later in the week too!

Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August.

Marlborough Open Studios is running until 28th July.

Wednesday 17th

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre screening Kind Hearts And Coronets. Big Jam session at the Vic, Swindon.

Fromage en Feu at the Bell, Bath

Thursday 18th

Amadeus Orchestra at Wilthsire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

National Theater Live: Present Laughter (Encore Screening) at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Memory Sing at Swindon Arts Centre. Chicago Blues Brothers at the Wyvern Theatre.

Lonely Tourist at The Tuppenny. Larkham & Hall at The Beehive. Preacher Son & Sons of Liberty at The Vic.

Back to Moo Moo at The Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Friday 19th

Event by Babois Eats the Lizard at the Dog & Fox, Bradford-on-Avon.

Avalon Comedy Network: Michael Odewale, Grace Mulvey, Sahib Singh & Luke Honnoraty at Pound Arts, Corsham.

I Know the End at Swindon Arts Centre, repeats Saturday. 4ft Fingers & Slagerij at The Vic, Swindon.

Upton Blues Festival opens.

Saturday 20th

New Moon – A Psychic and Spiritual Fayre at Devizes Corn Exchange from 11-4pm. The Roughcut Rebels at The Three Crowns. Talk in Code at The Southgate.

Market Lavington Vintage Meet Family Fun Weekend

Living Among… Reflections on Solitude and Nature: An evening of classical and folk music for violin and voice, with new work from composer Dylan Fixmer, also guest on piano and guitar at St Peter’s, Marlborough. Glamarma at the Bear. Rom 101 at The Lamb.

Reggae at the Pelican, Froxfield with Razah I-Fi.

Classic Ibiza at Bowood House

Glenn Darren & The Krewkats at Melksham Rock n Roll Club.

Cider, Reggae & Rum Festival in Trowbridge.

Ultimate Floyd – Pink Floyd Tribute Show at The Neeld, Chippenham.

The Thomas Sladden Quartet at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Malin Lewis Trio at Pound Arts, Corsham.

SGO at Richard Jefferies Museum, Swindon from 1pm. Rammied at The Vic. World Music Club at The Beehive. There’s a rally for Plastine at Faringdon Road Park. Julie Scott’s Academy Of Dance – Let Us Entertain You Again at the Wyvern Theatre.

But, Editor’s Pick of the Week is in Swindon this week, it’s My Dad’s Bigger Than Your Dad Festival for Prospect House at the Old Town Bowl; Ian despatched to find out more and report back!

Carpenters Tribute – Rainy Days, Mondays & Good Old Dreams at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Frome Record Fair at the Cheese & Grain. The Guns N Roses Experience afterwards.

Sunday 21st

Fantasy Radio is at Hillworth Park, Devizes with Andrew Hurst from 2pm-5pm. Jerry Crozier-Cole Trio at The Southgate, Devizes 5pm. Apparently, there’s a Family Fun Day at Avon Road Park, Devizes; Deadlight Dance are playing but I’ve heard nothing more about it. Sunday Sounds at the Muck & Dunder, free entry.

GM Dance Academy’s Summer Showcase at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Schtumm X-tra Presents Sarah Gillespie & Chris Montague at The Queens Head, Box.

Kirris Riviere & Delta du Bruit at the Bell, Bath.

Jol Rose & Rachel Birkin at Richard Jefferies Museum, Swindon 1pm. Embrace All Festival, Swindon. Emma Doupe at The Vic. JHS Dance – Seasons Of Dance at the Wyvern Theatre.

Frome Children’s Festival at the Cheese & Grain.

Monday 22nd

Wonder Gigs: Seasons at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Kevin Dempsey at the Bell, Bath.

Later with Frome College at the Cheese & Grain.

Tuesday 23rd

Rob Lear Band at The Piggy Bank, Calne.

Karen Sharpe Quartet at Jazz Knights, Royal Oak, Swindon.

Week one of Devizes Tennis Club’s Summer Tennis Camp begins.

And that’s your lot, for now!

Have a good week!

“Faith” at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, July 12th 2024.

by Ian Diddams.
photos by Ian Diddams and Luke Ashley Tame at Acadia Creative.

In the U.K. a one hundred and sixty-eight women and girls are murdered each year – almost one every two days. Eighteen percent of all recorded crime is domestic abuse. To the year end March 2022 police recorded 194,683 sexual offenses. Of which 70,330 were rapes, and of those just 3.2% were prosecuted, with a conviction rate of 62%. That is a conviction rate of under 2% of all reported rapes. “Reported” being the key word here. 

“Faith”, devised by Uncaged Theatre and written by Meg Pickup and Taruna Nalini, explores this background in its story involving four long standing friends – Colly & Kaia a cohabiting lesbian couple, Mercy who has an off-stage lesbian partner, and Theo who leads a promiscuous, single gay lifestyle. They share evenings together drinking wine – and cider – and playing games where Uno is the safe game of common agreement over strife ridden Monopoly and the ownership of “Mayfair”. Their harmonious, loving and tight knit group comes under pressure when a close female friend disappears after one such night when she never reaches home after her Uber ride. Things never will be the same again.

  Before the friend’s disappearance we witness small cracks in Kaia and Colly’s relationship, which love and partnership smooth over but it’s bubbling below the surface continually. The safety of Theo’s promiscuous gay lifestyle via Grindr is questioned by the three women, but he brushes it off – a foreshadowing of what is to come in some ways. Mercy is portrayed as the most on-the-level of the four.

The disappearance of their friend lifts the lid on all of these relationships and interactions. The women are connected by a constant fear and dread of male violence. Theo’s viewpoint is one of self-protection and public perception of himself as a male and these two sides of the coin are unable to fully appreciate each other’s position. As Colly opines, women are worried about BEING the next victim, while men are worried about being blamed. The cracks in Kaia and Colly’s relationship widen over differences in approaches to the tragedy; Colly’s solution is to protest and push the issues into people’s faces, Kaia’s is to hide away and not stir society’s pot.

The final monologue is stark.  

“Faith” is a work in progress and the Rondo performance was its world premiere. As a work in progress there are areas to flesh out, I am sure – Theo’s story is ripe for this area both with his own vulnerability in his encounters and also as the closest male to the victim. The area around race of the Uber driver is hinted at – and could again be a sub-plot to expand on, though that may be a distraction for the overarching premise and theme of this play.

  All four characters are clearly and perfectly drawn. Meg Pickup as strong willed, somewhat selfish Colly, Taruna Nalini as the loving, but insular Kaia, Billie-Jo Rainbird as the level-headed Mercy and Nicholas Downton-Cooper as Theo living his best unfettered gay life whilst overly sensitive and defensive to public perceptions.  

The set by Uncaged Theatre is a simple one (I like a simple set me!) where the action all takes place in Kaia and Colly’s flat. Lighting and sound by Maria Hemming sets the tone and time and day, and Billie-Jo. There are clever uses of TV reporting voices – voiced by Ashley Kelberman and Max Baldock – to cover the news around the disappearance and eventual discovery; a very good directorial touch by the company. 

 The show is a hard watch, unsurprisingly, due to its core premise. But it’s a well told one written from unfortunate knowledge. At least one of the abuse stories related in the play is 100% true from one of the cast’s own experience, and all are based on real occurrences. It is something everybody should see; the writing is precise, pertinent and pulls no punches. The characters are well drawn – these are people we all know … normal, everyday people leading everyday lives just like ourselves. In a friendship group just like we all have. Yet we are lucky enough – mostly – to not face what happens to one of our friends. I hope for all our sakes. Because one day … it may be us. Maybe it’s us that takes that last Uber ride thinking we are nearly home… It will move you – it SHOULD move you. I cried when I reflected on the show.

In closing, we need also reflect that in the time between seeing the show and writing this review, statistically in the U.K. another woman has been murdered.  

“Faith” can be seen at the Alma Tavern, in Bristol, on August 10th at 8pm. Tickets from https://www.tickettailor.com/events/almatheatrecompany/1242658

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 3rd -9th July 2024

Jam-packed July! If there’s always lots to do throughout the year, July especially so! Here’s what we’ve found in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week….

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info, as it takes too much time to link them all in. It may also be updated as more events come to our attention, so check in later in the week too!

Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August; review here.

Shakespeare Live’s Macbeth at Seend Cleeve House until 6th July; review here.

Wednesday 3rd

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Christ Church Primary School Summer Show at their neighbouring Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon.

Encore Screening of National Theatre Live’s Nye at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The Big Jam Session at the Vic, Swindon. Mal Webb & Kylie at The Beehive. Wilkes Academy at the Wyvern Theatre until the 5th July.

Gusto Gusto at the Bell, Bath.

Thursday 4th

Rum & Records at the Muck & Dunder in Devizes.

3 Daft Monkeys at The Barge, HoneyStreet.

Minety Music Festival Warm-up Gig.

Chris Murphey & Barney Kenny at The Tuppenny, Swindon. John Hegley: An American In Luton at Swindon Arts Centre. Broadtown Brewery Quiz Night.

The Weeping Willows at Chapel Arts, Bath with support from Tomorrow Bird.

Friday 5th

Save Our Ships at the Pump, Trowbridge, with Start The Sirens and Everyone Lies.

Chippenham

Minety Music Festival opens, running throughout the weekend. I’ve not been before, so I’m planning to pop along on Sunday with Talk in Code and will report my findings back to you! But its continued support of local music makes this Editor’s Pick of the Week!

Katey Brooks at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Not Warriors & Soak at The Vic, Swindon. Texas Tick Fever at The Beehive.

The Electric Shakes, Mikey Ball & the Company at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

All roads lead to Frome, they say, as if there’s not enough happening there, Frome Festival begins today, and runs till 14th July. Therefore, find The Back Wood Redeemers and Dry White Bones at The Corner-House. The Raggedy Men at The Sun. Alberta Cross at The Tree House.

The Music Baa near Salisbury; pub-campsite combo I’ve yet to try, have ‘In D’Field’ mini festival, withDr. Beatroot, Noah’s House, Band High, Shelf Remedy, Gambling Hearts, Love is Enough, Acrustic Badgers, Felix Darlow, The Passenger Club, The Courgettes, The New Group, and Alex Morgan Wardrop.

Saturday 6th

Cocktails and Canapés at Silverwood School, Rowde. All proceeds to the Silverwood School Charity Trust to support children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

West Lavington Village Fete and Dog Show. Blondie & Ska at The Green Dragon in Market Lavington.

Devizes Swap Shop at Pamela House. The Bratton Silver Band at the Wharf Theatre. Devizes Chamber Choir presents Showtime at the Musicals at St Andrew’s on Long Street. Illingworth at The Three Crowns. Strange Folk at The Southgate. Back To The 90s Night at The Bear Hotel.

Across the county, Marlborough Open Studios begins today, and runs throughout July, until the 28th.

Rush Hour at the Bear, Marlborough. The famous hangover sessions at the Lamb.

People Like Us at Melksham Cons Club.

Uncle Jack at Chippenham Consti Club.

Robinson Stone at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Cheese & Chilli Festival in Swindon. Street Lights at the Wyvern Theatre. Hair Supply at The Vic.

Cheltenham Music Festival opens too, running until 13th July.

The Authentics at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Desafinados at the Bell, Bath.

Cara Dillon’s “Coming Home” book talk at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Sunday 7th

Will Edmunds stands in for Jon Amor at The Southgate, Devizes at 5pm, but Tom and Jerry of the Trio will be there too, with guest John Baggott.

Open Mic at Red Lion, Lacock.

Open Mic at The Lamb, Trowbridge.

Courting Ghosts at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Inspire Warminster.

Mr Love & Justice at Richard Jefferies Museum in Swindon from 1pm. Ooh Beehive! Poetry slam at The Beehive, and Gideon Liddiard Photography’s Music- An Intimate View exhibit opens at The Beehive too. Lisa Doscher at The Tuppenny.

Leonie Evans at the Bell, Bath.

Raghu Dixit at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Monday 8th

Rock The Tots Seaside session at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Jim Gallagher & Friends at the Bell, Bath. Carsick are at Komedia with Nothing Rhymes With Orange.

Swinging at the Cotton Club at the Cheese & Grain.

Tuesday 9th

Exhibition on Screen – John Singer Sargent: Fashion & Swagger at Pound Arts, Corsham.

BD Lenz Trio for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon.

Old Time Sailors at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Important note: events which come to our attention from now on, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

Have a good week!

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“The Collaborators” at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, June 19th-22nd.

by Ian Diddams
photos by Richard Fletcher & Lisa Hounsome

The concept of historical brutal dictatorships and comedy is not necessarily one that one considers as workable. Yet the likes of “The Producers” and “The Death of Stalin” show that the right level of satire can over come any qualms that may exist. John Hodge’s play “Collaborators” continues this trend as an Stoppard-like surreal absurdist comedy about the relationship between real life characters Joseph Stalin and Mikhail Bulgakov, which the Rondo Theatre Company are performing this very week.

John Hodge may be better known for his scriptwriting on “Shallow Grave” and “Trainspotting” amongst other blockbuster films but here in “Collaborators” he ratchets up the satire and hinges his story on a Machiavellian plan by Stalin toward the dissident playwright Mikhail Bulgakov.

Director Matt Nation has created a demanding – in effect – two scene play into a smoothly choreographed storyline, as the simple set of the Bulgakov’s Moscow flat replete with huge Soviet red star also covers the Lubyanka, theatre, rehearsal studio, doctor’s surgery, hospital, kremlin basement & metro, all clarified by Alex Latham’s subtle lighting changes, The cast smoothly transition between these environments adeptly – such is the skill of particularly community theatre in representing multiple arenas in a limited space.

Act 1 is pure absurdist comedy. Bulgakov is pressured into writing a play for Stalin’s birthday, that ends up being written by Stalin himself while Bulgakov ends up running the Soviet Union. Its silly, its surreal – action also happening in Bulgakov’s head at times but just on the end of Act 1 the plot twists darkly.

Act 2 is pure black comedy. Though as the end of the play approaches is not so much comedy as horror as the repercussions of Bulgakov’s well intentioned “decisions” as a proxy for Uncle Joe come clear and those chickens come home to roost. Tragedy would be as good a description as the show reaches its denouement.

Weaving this excellently crafted and delivered tale are the cast of fourteen. Principal characters are unsurprisingly Stalin – complete with swept back hair and bristling moustache – played by Andy Fletcher, and Bulgakov played by Jon Thrower. They portray this odd collaboration skilfully and sympathetically, Stalin as an almost genial and friendly Uncle figure, Mikhail as the distrusting and incredulous playwright.

Mikhail’s peer group is comprised of his loving wife Yelena (Lucy Upward) portraying her increasing desperation and concern as to his health, Vassily an aging Czarist (Jonathan Hetreed), Praskovya a history teacher (Verity Neeves) that cannot discuss history before the revolution, and Sergei (Charlie Bevis) who have been billeted in the Bulgakovs’ small flat – Sergei lives in the cupboard! On this note the cupboard is superbly used as the entry and exit of Mikhail’s dreams/hallucinations and also the secret Kremlin door (!). Charlie’s portrayal of the enthusiastic young Soviet is touchingly naïve, and the group rub along despite their clear and evident differences in opinion and approaches to life under Stalin. Completing Mikhail’s peer group are Grigory (Toby Gibbs) a young writer struggling to get his work published due to its anti-Soviet content and his wife Anna (Elisabeth Calvert) reflecting the times’ oppression.

Bulgakov’s doctor is portrayed amusingly (in all the right ways!) by Tim Hounsome, all overworked, distant and slapdash until treating the elite, while “the actors” are just wonderfully performed by Josie Mae-Ross and Richard Chivers, floating in and out of Mikhail’s dreams as well as acting out the play Bulgakov is “writing” … Richard’s homage to Ernst Stavro Blofeld is almost a show stealer in itself.

Last but not least we come to the menace in the play – the NKVD officers.
Vladimir (Tom Turner) is quite brilliant as the jocular yet disquieting secret policeman who becomes more luvvie and obsequious as the play develops. Its unfair to pick out individual parts as “show stealers” especially in community theatre, but it would be remiss of me to not to praise one particular performance in this play. Tim Carter plays NKVD policeman number two, Stepan. A silent, brooding presence he delivers the real – literally unspoken – menace throughout whilst being at the back of the stage mostly. Its not until the very end that he comes to the fore in his own right, but it’s a special skill to not be heard but be influential in the action and Tim really nails the requirements.

Vladimir’s wife Eva is played with an almost cameo performance by mainstay of the Rondo theatre company, Alana Wright, who manages to stave of the unwanted attentions of Stepan… mostly…

Aside from Alex on lighting, Dylan Jackson provided sound tech and as a team they had a busy time and completed everything to perfection – this is a tech heavy show so huge congratulations to them. Other crew aspects were indeed “collaborated” on (d’ya see what I did there? ) by all of the above – set design and build, stage management (including Toby Skelton), costumes and publicity which was aided and abetted by Lisa Hounsome and Richard Fletcher with photography.

“Collaborators” is a fast paced, thinkers play – although the allusions to modern day Russia are evident and lie not very far beneath the surface. Some genuine laugh out loud moments, some shocking moments and Stalin’s final words to Bulgakov sum up the regime’s totalitarian control in a nutshell.

“Collaborators” is showing at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath from June 19^th to 22nd at 1930 every night.

Tickets from https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/rondotheatre/collaborators/e-eqavlp

“Where’s The Cat? Live!” at the Wharf Theatre June 27th 2024

by Mick Brian
Photos by the “Where’s the Cat?” team

Within the walls of Devizes very own Wharf Theatre meets an eclectic group of script writers. And having written scripts and read them to each other, they wondered what to do next. So they recorded themselves performing these short radio-style plays and unleashed them on an unsuspecting world in the form of a podcast series. Having achieved this milestone the group pondered what to do next, and a live show seemed the next obvious step.

“Where’s The Cat? Live!” is a melange of short plays, written and performed as rehearsed readings by the group, with the assistance of a couple of Wharf actors and a very sound man on sound. The plays cover the main facets of life; comedy and tragedy, often both at the same time. There’s a trilogy of plays about a trio of friends who find themselves in unusual and inconvenient situations. There’s a play about spies, another about therapy, another in a dystopian future where the human race is reduced to two people and some pot snacks. We go to Heaven in one play, a driving test centre in another, and a funeral in another. We meet an AI doctor, a fairy tale protagonist, a magician, and a mother and son having a row. Essentially all human life is here, just not necessarily as we know it.

The writers themselves have varying degrees of performance experience. Some are familiar faces upon the Wharf’s boards and their stagecraft shows, whilst others seemed less at ease within the performance space. Whilst it is not necessarily a natural thing for writers to be performers also, the rehearsal process has coaxed the hidden actor out of them and it has been a privilege to watch them develop. The direction has been lead by Ali Warren, and a superb job she has done of it too, bringing these short pieces to life, and the group should be applauded for baring their souls and sharing their art with the public, which is no easy thing to do. The mixture of styles and substance is quite refreshing as one can pretty much guarantee there will be something that will stick with you from the evening.

“Where’s the Cat? Live!” plays for one night only and you’ll kick yourself if you miss it.

Tickets available from https://www.wharftheatre.co.uk/show/wheres-the-cat-wharf-writers-group/

Boomers Rule – “The Slambovian Circus of Dreams” at the Devizes Arts Festival, June 14th, 2024.

by Ian Diddams
photos by Gail Foster

Way back in the mists of time (August 2022 – y’know that REALLY, REALLY hot summer?) I saw the Slambovians play at Cropredy festival. A crowd of 20,000 embraced their version of “HillBilly Pink Floyd” as Wikipedia calls it, so moving forward from 2022, the chance to see them play here in good ol’ D-Town was too much to pass up so armed with Phillipa Morgan’s pen Devizine took the tough job of watching them play in front of maybe 2% of that number.

To be fair “HillBilly Pink Floyd” touches on some aspects of their music, but it’s a far wider demographic than simply that. Certainly, their show at the Corn Exchange last night included elements that certainly sounded very Pink Floyd, but psychedelia, prog, Dylan, Seeger, Tull, Led Zep all played their part weaving into and out of their songs

The Slambovians started a nine gig, eleven day whistle stop tour of the UK last night, having arrived from the Hudson Valley area, NY state, a.k.a. home. They started a tad gingerly, finding their feet but it was soon very apparent that this tight knit, well attuned beat combo was in their groove by their second number, the eponymous “The Grand Slambovians”. And the night – consisting of two one hour sets – continued in the same vein. Driving rhythms pushed by drummer Matthew Abourezk, with Sharkey McEwan on a mixture of lead guitar and … errr… lead mandolin (brilliantly played Page/Hendrix style) interspersed with calm, beautiful ballads showcasing Tink Lloyd’s versatility especially across accordion, cello and flute (Ian Anderson notes especially in “Step out of time”) took us on a journey through Slambovia. Joziah Longo immersed us in this utopian land’s philosophies and stories from mischievous fairies, to bees, to days before MTV where radio was king. All underpinned by the sublime bass lines of Bob Torsello.

Joziah alluded to “Boomers” throughout the show and Bob Torsello aside that certainly describes the age demographic of the band – and probably much of the audience – some Gen X types slipped through the net somehow, I suppose. Certainly, the underlying feel of their sets was that Boomer era of music – 60s and 70s, a distinct hippy vibe, with tracks and ethos tied in with nature and simpler times (Beez, Radio,). Joziah’s anecdotes and story telling drew us all in with his homely, gentle delivery. All in all a wonderful night of music delivered by a band on the top of their game, delivered by the ever excellent “Devizes Arts Festival“

“The Slambovian Circus of Dreams” have several dates on tour in the UK right now and I urge you to catch them again, or for a first time this year if you missed last night – see https://slambovia.com/tour-dates

Alternatively grab some merch if you missed out last night also – https://slambovia.bandcamp.com

And here’s a Spotify playlist to enjoy cobbled together by the wonders of Devizine of some of the tracks from last night

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4ZHHvscjkk77IUk6Vxi3CJ?si=ad36c622355546c6

– but please see them live or buy merch of course. Even if you are Gen X…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 12th – 18th June 2024

Here’s what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week….

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated, so check in later in the week.

Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August; review here.

Devizes Arts Festival got off to a great start, it continues through the week, individual events are listed as normal below.

Wednesday 12th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes. Two Devizes Arts Festival events, Kate Webb and Jon Stock – The Darker Side of Wiltshire at the Peppermill, and Martin Simpson at the Corn Exchange.

Lunchtime Recital: Meg Morley (Piano) at Pound Arts, Corsham.

In The Night Garden Live at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Memory Cinema, for those with dementia, is showing Annie Get Your Gun at Swindon Arts Centre.

The Archive of Dread Revisited at Rondo Theatre, Bath. Solana at the Bell, Bath.

Wheatus plays the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Thursday 13th

Duo Tutti at the Town Hall, and The Sound of Blue Note, also at the Town Hall, make up Devizes Arts Festival for Thursday. John Lawson’s Circus opens on the Green, Devizes and runs until 16th June.

In The Night Garden Live at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Ma Polaine’s Great Decline at The Tuppenny, Swindon.

Jonny & The Baptists presents the Happiness Index and Ten Thankless Years at Rondo Theatre, Bath.

An Evening With Harry Redknapp at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 14th

Chocolate Truffle Masterclass at HolyChocs in Poulshot.

The Slambovian Circus of Dreams at Devizes Arts Festival in the Corn Exchange. Mr Griff at The Southgate, Devizes.

Tom Davis & The Bluebirds at The Barge, HoneyStreet.

The Carrivick Sisters at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. BuckFest over the weekend at The Three Horseshoes, Friday with Kitchen Lover,, Mimi & the Miseries and Bucky Rage.The Karport Collective at The Seven Stars, Winsley.

Jacob & Drinkwater: 10th Anniversary Tour at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The Carpenters Story at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. An Evening of Mediumship with Psychic Medium Nikki Kitt at Swindon Arts Centre. Oasish & The Stereotonics at the Vic, Swindon.

Jonny & The Baptists presents the Happiness Index and Ten Thankless Years at Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Toyah & Robert at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Saturday 15th

Summer Fayre at Bishops Cannings School from 12-4pm.

Huw Williams – St John’s Church Organ Recital at St John’s Church Devizes, part of Devizes Arts Festival. Bone Chapel at The Southgate. 6 O’clock Circus at The Three Crowns.

Pianist Tony James with a lineup you can see the poster below, at Market Lavington Community Hall for a Mathieson Music Trust 30th Anniversary.

The Parade Festival, at the Parade Cinema, Marlborough, with The Vooz and Zoots headlining. Room 101 at the Lamb, Marlborough.

Cacti & Succulent Show at Melksham Assembly Hall

Daliso Chaponda: Feed This Black Man Again at the Neeld, Chippenham. NWSO Summer Concert 2024 at St. Andrew’s Church. Grease and Dirty Dancing tribute night at the Pewsham.

Trowbridge Midsummer Festival at Trowbridge Town Park. Free this one, with the incredible Frankisoul on at 8pm! Dead Zebras and Diversion at the Pump. A roller-disco at the Civic.

Bath Symphony Orchestra at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. BuckFest at The Three Horseshoes continues with Bucky Rage, Bully Bones & The Pressure.

VRï at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Shepton Mallet Prison Charity Abseil.

Holding Back The Years at Swindon Arts Centre. Judas Rising at the Queen’s Tap. Shepherd’s Pie at the Vic, Swindon. There’s a Wanborough Beer Festival too.

Neuroheadz Festival 2024 at Brokenborough opens.

The Vintage Bazaar at the Cheese & Grain, Frome is followed by The Blockheads.

Sunday 16th

Matchbox Mutiny at The Three Crowns, Devizes from 3pm. LeBurn Maddox & Friends at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm. The Junco Shakers at The British Lion at 2pm, a FREE Devizes Arts Festival fringe, and a The Poetry Slam from 6pm at the Wharf Theatre is another free fringe event which sadly closes the arts festival for another year.

Open Mic at the Red Lion, Lacock.

Perfectly Frank, Frank Sinatra tribute at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

BuckFest continues at The Three Horseshoes.

Western Players – Dead Reckoning opens at Swindon Arts Centre, running until 26th June. Kavus Torabi at the Vic, Swindon

Hodmadoddery at the Bell, Bath.

Monday 17th

Devizes Election Hustlings at Devizes School, see poster.

Troy Redfern is at The Tree House, Frome.

Tuesday 18th

Jon Pearson at Crazy Bird Comedy Club in The Piggy Bank Micropub in Calne.

Lost Songs of Scilly: Piers Lewin & John Patrick Elliott at Pound Arts, Corsham.

QOW Trio for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon.

Saskia Maxwell & Sam Sweeney at the Bell, Bath

And that’s all we’ve got for now; fill your boots! Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.

Summer Solstice next Thursday 20h June, and there’s lots to do over the rest of the month, HERE>

Important note: events which come to our attention from now on, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

Have a good week!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 5th -11th June 2024

Here’s what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week. Don’t forget your sunscreen and a nice party umbrella!

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated, so check in later in the week.

Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August; review here.

Devizes Arts Festival got off to a great start, it continues through the week, individual events are listed as normal below.

Wednesday 5th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes. Mike Dilger – One Thousand Shades of Green and An Evening with Adam Rutherford, both at Devizes Arts Festival.

Ignas Maknickas at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Big Monthly Jam at The Vic, Swindon.

Dot, the Faun and the Elfin Child at Rondo Theatre, Bath. SKANKt at the Bell.

Thursday 6th

80th anniversary of D-Day, there will be lighting of beacons across the county. One on Marlborough Common, another one Roundway Hill Devizes.

Rum & Records at the Muck & Dundar, Devizes. Hollie McNish – The Lobster Tour and Lucy Porter at Devizes Arts Festival. Fantasy Radio will be at the Pelican for a live lounge, featuring Andrew Hurst.

Death is a Girl, Ritual Divide & The Belladonna Treatment at the Vic, Swindon. Splat The Rat at The Tuppenny.

Friday 7th

RNLI Lifeboats Event, Polperro Fishermen’s Choir at The Assembly Rooms, Devizes Town Hall. Jo Carley and the Old Dry Skulls at Devizes Arts Festival.

Open Mic at The Barge on HoneyStreet.

Textiles and Stitch around Marlborough are in Lockeridge, see poster below.

CarmenCo: A Pocket Opera at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Ant Trouble at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Rotten Aces at the Queen’s Tap, Swindon. Bring me the Horizon Party at the Vic.

Meltdown by Tom Hardman (Bath Fringe Festival 2024) at The Mission, Bath. The Collected Grimms Tales by Tim Supple and Carol Ann Duffy (Bath Fringe Festival 2024) at The Mission, Bath. Let’s Unpack That at the Rondo Theatre.

Tangled Roots Folk Festival, Radford Farm, Somerset.

Skinny Lister at The Tree House, Frome. The Buzzcocks at the Cheese & Grain. Not Fragile at The Sun.

Saturday 8th

Cable Street Collective at Devizes Arts Festival, Corn Exchange 8pm. The Unpredictables at The Three Crowns, Devizes. Tom Davies & The Bluebirds at The Southgate. Braeside Summer Extravaganza – Devizes, free entry, for fun activities, delicious food, live music, artisan market and more.

The Monkey Dolls at The Lamb, Marlborough. RNLI Concert at St Peter’s Church.

Parker, Youngest of 3 and Butane Skies at the Pump in Trowbridge. Don’t forget, Youngest of 3 drummer Flo is also a regular contributor to Devizine, reporting on the youth scene, so please show them some support if you can! Sounds of Seattle at the Civic.

Bradford-on-Avon Food & Drink Festival. Fist Full of Rage at The Three Horseshoes.

Magic & Marvels at Swindon Arts Centre. Rockabilly Rumble at The Queen’s Tap, Swindon.

Masa at The Tuppenny. The Chaos Brothers at The Vic.

Catherine Bohart’s Again, With Feelings, at Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Little Pickles Market followed by Paul Jones & Dave Kelly at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Sunday 9th

Lions on the Green at Devizes Green. Tamsin Quinn & Vince Bell at The Southgate, from 5pm. Devizes Arts Festival Walk : Sarsens, Soldiers and Sawpits, and two free fringe events, Rumour at the Three Crowns at 2pm, and Annie Parker Trio at St John’s Church at 7pm.

Open Mic at the Red Lion, Lacock.

Matt Bragg & Seb Cooper at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Destination: Old Hag by Bridget Hardy, Penny Rossano and Samantha Houston (Bath Fringe Festival 2024) at The Mission, Bath. The Saint Melonians at the Bell, Bath.

Monday 10th

Ida Pelliccioli at Devizes Arts Festival.

Rock The Tots: Jungle at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The University of Bath Minerva Lecture Series at The Mission, Bath. Scott Lavene at the Bell, Bath (we love Scott here at Devizine, go see this, and if you do, please write back to tell us about it.)

Tuesday 11th

Devizes Arts Festival: Belinda Kirk and The Life-Changing Power of Adventure. And Discovering Antarctica : Heroic tales of Shackleton, Crean and Scott ~ Play on Words Theatre.

Peter Jones & Tom Berge Trio for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon.

And that’s all we’ve got for now; fill your boots! Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.

Do check ahead with our every-changing events diary. Isn’t it high time you snapped up some tickets for the Devizes Arts Festival?

Have a good week!

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“Sister Act” at St. Augustine’s, Trowbridge May 29th-June 1st

By Ian Diddams
Photos by Gail Foster

In 1971 Ken Russell enchanted film audiences with “The Devils”, which incorporated nuns in the story – somewhat controversially. This was six years after Julie Andrews, aided and abetted by yet more nuns, thwarted the Nazis in “The Sound of Music”. By 1980 nuns had become less controversial, less politically motivated, as instead the object of scorn and fear by “The Blues Brothers”. So, by the time 1992 rolled around, nuns were old hat in the film industry and especially the musical genre. Nothing was left to use them for, surely. Enter Whoopi Goldberg, stage left in 1992, and “Sister Act” with a general plotline of “how do you solve a problem like Deloris?”

In the intervening decades the film was transferred to a stage musical in the West End then to Broadway, and subsequently via the auspices of community theatre groups to a stage somewhere very near you. The basic plotline is simple enough – naughty wannabe girl singer hanging with a hood witnesses a murder, goes on the run, hides in a convent, transforms its choir and the convent’s financial future, is discovered by ex-boyfriend, and is protected by the sisters before being saved by her teenage admirer now a policeman. Who overcomes his fear of guns by shooting said gangster boyfriend – how very P.C.!

The whole show of course is strung along by those foot tapping songs by Menken and Slater providing opportunities for vast quantities of choreography by nuns. And its these scenes of twenty-one nuns (I counted them all out, and I counted them all back) cavorting joyfully across St. Augustine’s Catholic College’s stage (where else better for a musical set in a convent? Unless maybe in a convent I suppose…) that will linger in the mind’s eye for a while yet to come.

This is Trowbridge Musical Theatre’s second nun based show in just over a year now, following on from thwarting Austrian Nazis in 2023. Perhaps it is becoming a habit for them? There would be nun better to do so let’s face it. (*Ahem* – less puns please – Ed.) Sarah Davies makes her directorial debut and her touch is seen throughout the show with little, perfect moments. Choreography by Anna Mazan in true “Sister Act” style fills the stage with synchronised movements throughout the show, no better personified by the nuns’ ensemble’s activity … the stage isn’t the largest and there’s a LOT of nuns strutting their wimples but a blend of sways, grinds and hand jive leaves at times a breathtaking display before your eyes.

This is a large cast and so “I haven’t got a prayer” of covering everybody – but rest assured though that EVERYBODY was “Fabulous baby!”
Frankie Walker leads from the front as Deloris Van Cartier (“You know, like Cartiers”). Her stage presence is immense, and she captures the initial sassy character of Deloris that shifts to a later caring communal love to perfection. Tim Hobbs wades in as the grand master of chaos and nastiness as Curtis, with his unlikely trio of useless henchmen – well done with the Spanish Paul West! – including the irrepressible TJ played by Noah Heard with the slickest of moves on the dance floor.

Eddie was wonderfully portrayed by Davey Evans compete (of course) with sweaty armpits and – with some help naturally – a stunning double clothes rip change. The three “Sisters of Mercy” – Marys Robert, Patrick and Lazurus – were more than ably carried by respectively Carisma Dolphin, Daisy Woodruffe and Dani Fuke. Carisma’s vocals more than rose to the occasion, soaring over the band, while Daisy’s portrayal of the goofy nun was slapstick at its finest, and full kudos goes to Dani’s comedic timing and delivery as the straight-laced but wonderfully sardonic ex choir leader. Finally in this mini round-up is last but by no means least, the show’s Mother Superior Michelle Hole. Clear as a bell and with wonderful projection, her every line and note were delivered perfectly. A truly bravissimo performance.

Now – no musical is complete without its ensemble, its chorus. And what a chorus! If anything, and if this is not an unfair thing to say in a community theatre review, they collectively stole the show. Take a bow all twenty nuns for your rousing singing, harmonies, choreography akin to the red arrows at times, hand jive, swaying and a swinging and a grinding. As well as tiny cameos amongst it all, including (my favourite) an homage to the Dance of the Cygnets from Swan Lake at one stage (and hats off to choreographer Anna too of course!). And a special mention is needed for all of the cast that had multiple costume changes in the show stretching between a nun, fantasy dancer, bar patron, street singer, hooker and goodness knows what else in their blur of appearances. You all made it look as if you were indeed finding it “Good to be a Nun”!

The set was simple but well presented, with effective use of corners for office scenes etc. No musical of course is possible without its band and the ten piece orchestra led by Musical Director Helen Heaton with a GREAT horn section delivered all the right notes AND in the right order 😊

There is one real star of the show not mentioned yet. Top music, top singing, top performances, top choreography all lead to a top show but there was one thing that really set this entire thing off brilliantly. By far and away the dazzling STAR of the show were the costumes, so take a bow Sandra Tucker, Karen Grant, Kirstie Blackwall and Sarah Davies.

“Sister Act” by Trowbridge Muciscal theatre is showing at St. Augustine’s, Trowbridge nightly from May 29^th to Saturday 1^st June at 7.30pm plus a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

So “Spread The Love around”, grab a friend or ten and get thee to the show – tickets available from the Ticket Source box office.

No recorders were harmed in the making of this production.

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 22nd- 28th May 2024

Here’s what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week, with a bank holiday in the mix!

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated, so check in later in the week.

Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August; review here.

Ongoing: Bath International Music Festival: 17th – 26th May

Wednesday 22nd

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

The Wizard of Oz at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-onAvon.

Starting a run until the 25th May, I Love You Because at The Rondo Theatre, Bath. The Barefoot Bandit at the Bell, Bath. And the Mission Theatre begins SparkFest with two shows, The Sofa and Dead End.

Big Jam Sessions at The Vic, Swindon. Irish House Party at Swindon Arts Centre.

Thursday 23rd

Runny Snotts Acoustic Sessions at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Nick Helm’s Super Fun Good Time Show at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Here Come the Crows at The Vic, Swindon. Luke Combs at The Wyvern Theatre. Confessions Of Sweeney Todd at Swindon Arts Centre.

SparkFest’s Independent Digital Screenings at The Mission, Bath.

And the last Shindig Festival opens at Dillington Park, have a great time if you’re going to that.

Friday 24th

Chippenham Folk Festival opens and runs until 27th May.

Nothing Rhymes With Orange at Devizes Street Festival

Nothing Rhymes With Orange are back on their home turf, playing The Three Crowns, Devizes, which we make Ed’s pick of the week. Full on Fridays at the Exchange in with resident DJ Stevie Mc in the mix.

Shilts & Friends at the Civic, Trowbridge.

Jessica Fostekew’s Mettle at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Cap’N Rusty’s Skiffle City Rockers at The New Inn, Amesbury.

Hatepenny at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Call The Shots at The Boathouse.Bach Week: at Wiltshire Music Centre, with Quartetto di Cremona The Art of Fugue.

Biggles Sound System is at St James Wine Vaults, Bath. Fleetwood Mad at Chapel Arts. MacPlebs is the SparkFest show at The Mission.

Tyrants at The Vic, Swindon. Nick Helm’s Super Fun Good Time Show at Swindon Arts Centre. Rock It at The Queen’s Tap. And there’s a Beer and Cider Festival at Swindon & Cricklade Railway.

Be Like Will at Tuckers Grave Inn, Faulkland.

Carsick are at The Tree House, Frome.

Cursus Festival opens in Dorset.

Saturday 25th

Chris Free at The Southgate, Devizes. Sam Briggs joins Stevie MC in the mix at the Exchange.

Cap’N Rusty’s Skiffle City Rockers at the Crown, Bishops Cannings.

Mick Jogger and The Stones Experience at Edington Charity Ball at the Three Daggers.

Family Fun Day at Spencer’s Club Melksham from 11am-4pm.

80s Disco at the Talbot, Calne.

Lonely Road Band at Gloucester Road Cons Club, Trowbridge.

Molly Chambers at Hawkeridge Village Hall near Westbury.

The Reason at Prestbury Sports Club, Warminster.

D-State at Tuckers Grave Inn, Faulkland.

aKa Dance: A Real Fiction at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Larkhall at Kington Langley Village Hall.

Steve Backshall begins a few dates at Longleat running until 2nd June.

Biaritz at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Chris Moyles 90s Hangover Festival at Swindon Town FC Rockabilly Rumble at the Vic. The BeatRoutes at The Queen’s Tap. Sonic Alert at Woodlands Edge. Daliso Chaponda – Feed This Black Man Again at Swindon Arts Centre. Daniel O’Reilly: Out Of Character at The Wyvern Theatre.

The Ciderhouse Rebellion at Chapel Arts, Bath. SparkFest at The Mission has Stage Fright, CYCLOPS: More Than Meets The Eye, and The Chipping Norton Incident.

Love Saves the Day at Bristol.

Jeremy Healy at The Cheese & Grain, Frome. The Hammervilles at the Tree House.

Sunday 26th

Muddy Manninen & Pasty Gabble at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm. People Like Us at The Three Crowns.

Open Mic at the Red Lion, Lacock.

Pete Lane and the Sailing Stones at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Luke Philbrick & the Solid Gone Skiffle Invasion at the Bell, Bath. Bath Fringe Festival shows
The Demeter by Lewis Cook at The Mission.

Could Be Real Tribute Festival at Swindon Town FC. Lonely Road Band at the Richard Jefferies Museum, free entry. Mrs Smith – See Me! at Swindon Arts Centre. Punt and Dennis at The Wyvern Theatre.

Bank Holiday Monday 27th

The Popup Youth Cafe will be on the Green in Devizes from 2-4pm. Funked Up at The Three Crowns, Devizes.

Tom Odell “Black Friday” at The Memorial Hall, Marlborough, check ahead I think this may be cancelled.

Open Mic at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

Wonder Gigs: Sky at Pound Arts, Corsham, followed by John Robb’s Do You Believe in the Power of Rock n Roll.

Bruton Packhorse Fair.

Car Show at Tuckers Grave Inn, Faulkland.

Big Chimney Barn Dance at the Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 28th

Half Term Reduction Linocut Workshop at Hannah Cantellow Studio, Devizes.

Exhibition on Screen – Painting the Modern Garden: Monet to Matis at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Pop Princesses at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Fleur Stevenson Quartet at Jazz Knights in the Royal Oak, Swindon.

And that’s all we’ve got for now; fill your boots! Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.

Do check ahead with our ever-changing events diary. Isn’t it high time you snapped up some tickets for the Devizes Arts Festival at the end of the month running into June?

Have a good week!

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Frome Festival Presents a Bumper Programme for All

From the 5th to the 14th July 2024, Frome Festival plans to up the game of this wonderful and lively town with a bumper programme for all…..

In over sixty-one venues across Frome and surrounding villages, Frome Festival is gearing up for its biggest ever programme, with 250 events taking place over 10 days. This year’s theme celebrates 60 years of Roald Dahl’s ‘Charlie & the Chocolate Factory’, featuring artwork by illustrator Sholto Walker depicting Willy Wonka striding down the streets of Frome. To celebrate this theme, five Golden Tickets will be hidden at various Festival events with winners receiving a scrumdiddlyumptious spending spree at Frome’s local chocolatier and café, Choc et al.

The community arts festival has been a popular fixture in the town since 2001 and aims to offer something for everyone, young and old, including different types of music, theatre, comedy, spoken word, art, dance, film, workshops, children’s events, and food or drink experiences. Expect a dash of Frome’s signature quirkiness!

Children can enjoy bouldering workshops, comic art masterclasses, science exploration of pondlife, theatre productions, a Willy Wonka Rave, outdoor shows and so much more.

And Frome Festival is teaming up with the popular Frome Independent Market on Sunday 7th July, taking over their entertainment stages with music, street theatre, and dance.

Headliners for 2024 include internationally acclaimed bass-baritone, Sir Willard White, Jenny Eclair, Richard Herring, Paul Mason, Old Time Sailors, Swinging at the Cotton Club, Alberta Cross, Raghu Dixit, Peatbog Faeries. Alongside one of Frome’s favourite free events, the Festival Food Feast, returning for a celebration of amazing international street food, live music and entertainment. Sponsored by local Frome company Lilley’s Cider.

Other highlights include hilarious stand-up comic Jenny Eclair at the Merlin Theatre, the first woman to win the coveted Perrier Award at Edinburgh Festival in 1995 and hasn’t stopped banging on about it since. India’s biggest cultural & musical export, Raghu Dixit is returning to the Cheese & Grain for the Frome Festival after his triumphant debut last year.

The spectacular Swinging at the Cotton Club is a visual and musical feast paying homage to legends such as Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, and Count Basie with breathtaking dance routines. In the atmospheric setting of Holy Trinity Church, renowned organ virtuoso David Bednall will provide an improvised soundtrack to the classic 1922 horror movie, Nosferatu.

There’s raucous Old Time Sailors, former economics editor of Newsnight and Channel 4 and a regular Guardian contributor, Paul Mason presenting this year’s Bob Morris Lecture, a keynote speech that is an annual highlight of the Festival programme. Legendary stand-up comic Richard Herring presents his brand-new tour show where he talks bollocks about his recent experience with testicular cancer, at the Cheese & Grain, and Scottish trailblazers Peatbog Faeries also appear at the big Cheese, with a glorious mixture of traditional sounds and dance-floor grooves creating a hypnotic sound that no-one can resist dancing to.

Tickets go on sale from Sunday 19th May at 10am through www.fromefestival.co.uk

BROCHURES detailing all events are available to pick up from the Cheese & Grain, local libraries, information points and many other locations across Frome and the surrounding area. An online version of the brochure is available here.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 15th-21st May 2024

Here’s what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week…

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated, so check in later in the week.

Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August; review here.

The Thrill of Love is currently running at the Wharf Theatre until Saturday, here’s a review.

Wednesday 15th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Patsy Gamble Jazz Trio at St Nicholas Church in Bromham, preview here.

Jonathan Leibovitz at the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Mohamed Errebbaa at the Bell, Bath

Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre, for those suffering with dementia and their carers, screening The Lavender Hill Mob (U). Latin funk jazz with Starlings at Jazz Knights in The Royal Oak, Swindon.

Thursday 16th

Royal Wootton Bassett Carnival & Fun Fair starts and finishes at the weekend.

Courting Ghosts at The Tuppenny, Swindon. Rusty Goat’s Poetry All-Stars at Twigs Community Gardens. Memory Sing at Swindon Arts Centre. Pete Allen’s Jazz Band at Swindon Arts Centre. Antiques and a Little Bit of Nonsense at The Wyvern Theatre.

Friday 17th

Full On Fridays at the Exchange, Devizes, with DJ Stevie MC.

Medium Nikki Kitt is at Melksham Assembly Hall .

Mosquito at the Aldbourne Social Club.

Pat Sharp Party Night at the Civic, Trowbridge.

Ion Maiden at The Vic, Swindon. Simplicity at the Queen’s Tap. Ashley Blaker at Swindon Arts Centre. Julian Clary – A Fistful Of Clary at The Wyvern Theatre.

Ruzz Guitar Trio at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Karport Collective at The Boathouse.

Bath International Music Festival begins today, running until 26th May. Bootleg Bee Gees at Chapel Arts. Daliso Chaponda’s Feed this Black Man Again at The Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Dutty Moonshine DJ Set at The Tree House, Frome.

The Chilled Out Motorhome and Camper Weekender in Cirencester opens.

Saturday 18th

Devizes Vegan Market at The Market Place from 10am-3pm. Mynt Image Craft Fair in the Corn Exchange. The Dirt Road Band at Long Street Blues Club. Canute’s Plastic Army at The Southgate, Ed’s pick of the week this one. Adam Woodhouse at The Three Crowns. Caztro is in the mix at the Exchange.

White Horse Soapbox Derby in Westbury.

Mosaic Dogs at The Lamb, Trowbridge.

Talk in Code at The Kings Arms, Amesbury.

Rachel Newton at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Black Wendy at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Vocal Works Gospel Choir – live at 21 at the Wiltshire Music Centre.

Shelf is at the Rondo Theatre, Bath, with a kids version, then teenage men version. Roxy Magic at Chapel Arts.

The Bowie Experience at The Vic, Swindon. Awakening Savannah at The Queen’s Tap.

The Soul Strutters at the Woodlands Edge. Drew Bryant at the New Inn. The Blackheart Orchestra at Swindon Arts Centre. eMotion Dance Competition at The Wyvern Theatre.

Frome Memorial Theatre Open Day followed by Jive Talkin’. John Lydon is at the Cheese & Grain. ZZ Toppd at the Tree House.

Sunday 19th

The Hoodoos at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

Open Mic at the Red Lion, Lacock.

Shot by Both Sides at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Eddie Martin at the Bell, Bath.

Lee Hurst – Sweet Sorted Lovely at Swindon Arts Centre.

The Frome International Climate Film Festival at the Cheese & Grain.

Monday 20th

Tony Remy, James Morton & Anders Olinder at the Bell, Bath.

Steeleye Span at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Tuesday 21st

Let’s Walk – Caen Hill & Jubilee Wood

Crazy Bird Comedy Night at The Piggy Bank Micropub, Calne.

Gareth Williams Trio for Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon.

Ash Mandrake & Jenny Bliss at the Bell, Bath.

And that’s all we’ve got for now; fill your boots! Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.

Do check ahead with our every-changing events diary.

Shindig Festival at Dillington Park begins next week, the last Shindig festival, have a good one from me.Also find upcoming Chippenham Folk Festival 24th-27th May. Love Saves the Day in Bristol. Beer and Cider Festival at Swindon & Cricklade Railway. Cursus Festival 2024 Dorset. Chris Moyles 90s Hangover Festival at Swindon Town FC.

In Devizes Nothing Rhymes With Orange makes a homecoming at The Three Crowns on Friday 24th. And isn’t it high time you snapped up some tickets for the Devizes Arts Festival at the end of the month running into June?

Have a good week!

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“The Thrill of Love” at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, May 13th-18th 2024

By Ian Diddams
Images by Chris Watkins

Ruth Ellis was hanged aged 28 years old, by Albert Pierrepoint the official executioner in the UK, at Holloway prison on July 13^th 1955. Her trial had taken a little over just one day – the jury took only twenty-three minutes to find her guilty. She made no defence of her own actions though there is much to indicate she was at least coerced into shooting David Blakely and was likely acting under duress and was certainly easily influenced. Court investigations found her not to be insane – again there are indications that this was not as clear cut a scenario.

Her story is portrayed in “The Thrill of Love”, by Amanda Whittington, showing soon at The Wharf Theatre.

This is not an easy play to watch. Its subject matter is of course an indication of that, but it’s the underlying stories that the plot reveals and hints at that are the disturbing aspects. The sexual, physical and psychological abuse by multiple men throughout her life, from her childhood right up until her execution. Her low self-esteem, desperation for attention, acceptance, and love. Clearly self-delusional, gas lighting herself, a neurotic personality,Ruth Ellis was doomed from a young age and the play brings all of these into a stark expose of life in Britain at the time. As her character opines she was “never part of society”.

Debby Wilkinson, Director of this quite superb piece of theatre, explained that it
has been a challenge to bring together, not just because of the subject matter
itself, but that as a historical record in many ways it is vital to reflect the
truth. Debby and the cast spent the first three weeks of rehearsal immersing
themselves into their characters, motivations and the social mores surrounding
that time, before starting to build the show. Their intensive preparation has clearly worked to perfection. All the characters are wholly believable, whether they be the real life characters of Ruth Ellis and Vickie Martin, or the fictional ones designed to reflect aspects of the work relationships and public thought.

Freddie Underwood plays Ruth Ellis. Hers is a staggering portrayal. From bumptious party queen, to mentally downtrodden and crushed, spurned, and beaten lover, Freddie encapsulates the vast array of emotions and reactions to perfection,sometimes just mere seconds apart as scenes develop. Words do not do justice to the depth of her skill. On top of that, she also has nine costume changes in the two hours of the show, one even onstage as she transforms from Ruth Ellis to prisoner.

Vickie Martin, Ellis’ friend, is played by Jessica Whiley. Carefree party girl
with a plan, Jess’s characterisation is spot on. Entering cat-walk model like, to dancing with Ruth, her coquettishness shines through, lithely and gracefully. Jess also doubles up as prison warder and prosecution barrister. The relationship between Ellis and Martin is strong – catty, then supportive, then loving, then bitchy. Both actors excel at this relationship. Their scene where Ellis “teaches” Martin to flirt provocatively with the Gentlemen’s Club’s patrons is also cleverly choreographed and performed; they are both so childlike – whilst existing on the sleazier edges of life.

Overseeing them both is Sylvia Shaw, the Court Club’s manageress. The Court Club is central to the entire play –its is where we are introduced to all the women characters, the club where they work. Mari Webster plays Sylvia, again to perfection. While Martin is coquettish and bright, Ellis focussed yet vulnerable, Sylvia has been there, done that, got the badge. She runs a tight ship, knows the score but is sliding into her fifties with a drink problem and failing health. She is also a mother hen to the girls in her club albeit one with a hard edge … though it is revealed that this is really a trait of self-protection.

The final female part is that of Doris Judd, the char. Mitzi Baehr (who you
may even recognise from some TV appearances) is the calm, collected, caring big sister character that will have nothing to do with the real business of the
club, but delights in supporting those that work there. From cups of tea to sympathy, to post abortion care and a few plainly put admonishments, Doris is, if not the power behind the throne, certainly the grease that smooths the paths of their lives. She loses her husband over her all night devotion to the club, to Sylvia and to Ruth in particular.

That leaves D.I. Jack Gale, representing in many ways, the folks that vociferously opposed Ellis’ sentence and execution. He gets the conviction – but knows it isn’t the full truth, and he is fighting for that truth the entire time, despite the accused’s own blocks to his attempts. He is a decent man, dedicated to his job, to finding the truth. Sean Andrews finds Gale’s inner turmoil and even angst, amongst a sardonic turn of phrase. “London’s a market – and this [The Court Club] is the trading floor” he almost shrugs … before later spending hours going over and over notes, papers, cuttings, photographs of evidence. Sean completes this quintet of superb actors.

The set is a simple one yet effective. The “Court Club” – then later the “Little
Club” that Ruth ends up running – with tables, chairs, a record player, a bar.
Stage left and right empty for police cell, interrogation room, the street, a bedsit. Downstage for a crematorium. Costumes are a delight – aside from Ruth’s dazzling array everything is fitting for the period. Lighting is at times quite brilliant – the last we see of Ruth, hidden in shadow except for a blinding almost halo like shine of her blond hair is a stunning visual.

And surrounding all of this is Billie Holiday’s voice … a soundtrack of her singing washing in, over, around the scenes.

Ultimately, it’s a play about loss.

Of dignity. Of husbands. Of lovers. Of hope.

Of life.

“The Thrill of Love” plays at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, from May 13^th
to 18^th at 1930 every night.

Tickets are available from the Wharf website at https://www.wharftheatre.co.uk/show/the-thrill-of-love, or from Devizes Library.

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 8th-14th May 2024

It’s beginning to look a lot more like spring now; you are officially cleared to go outside! Here’s what we’ve found to do outside, in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week…

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August; review here.

Wednesday 8th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes

Trowbridge Job Fair.

Nick Helm’s Super Fun Good Time Show at The Rondo Theatre, Bath. O. Love & The Affair at the Bell, Bath. Nurse Georgie Carroll: Sista Flo 2.0 at Komedia.

Big Jam Session at The Vic, Swindon. And the Swindon Festival Of Literature opens with Anne-Marie O’Dwyer at Swindon Arts Centre, and Jessica Fostekew: Mettle.

Thursday 9th

Devizes Film Club at the Wharf Theatre, screening The Quiet Girl.

Comedy Loft 9 at the Civic, Trowbridge.

Hannah Sanders & Ben Savage at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The TigerFace Show at The Rondo Theatre, Bath. Hayseed Dixie and The Zipheads at Komedia.

Butcombe Festival Of Laughs At The White Hart, Wroughton. Coopers Creek at The Beehive, Swindon. Swindon Festival Of Literature: Elizabeth Oldfield and Mark Rutterford at Swindon Arts Centre, followed by The Metamorphosis at Swindon Arts Centre.

Friday 10th

People Like Us at The Condado Lounge, Devizes. Palooza are back at the Exchange nightclub, great night of house music, great vibe, last time.

The Future Sound of Trowbridge #9 at The Pump, with FLAM and Artoid. TrowFest at Trowbridge RFC.

Miss Kill at the Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

Counter’s Creek at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Warming up for the Green Man Festival on Saturday, I Smell Burning at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. The Full Motley at The Boathouse. Lindisfarne at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Benji Kirkpatrick at Chapel Arts, Bath. My Secret Sister at The Rondo Theatre. Craig Charles Funk & Soul House Party at Komedia.

Jordan Red, Webb and Boss Cass at The Vic, Swindon. Peloton at the Queen’s Tap.

Swindon Festival Of Literature at Swindon Arts Centre –has Marcus Du Sautoy, Hilary Bradt, and Felice Hardy.

New Purple Celebration – The Music of Prince at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. Gary Stringer of Reef at The Tree House.

Saturday 11th

The Stert Country House Collectables and Car Boot Sale in aid of Cancer Research at Stert near Devizes. Kirris Riviere & The Delta Du Bruit at The Southgate.

Five Lanes Summer Fete in Worton. The Unpredictables at Potterne Social Club.

The Famous Hangover Sessions atThe New Lamb Inn, Marlborough. Open Mic at The Barge on HoneyStreet.

Marty’s Fake Family at Gloucester Road Club, Trowbridge. Rural France, Ravetank, Clock Radio and Fela Dekota all at The Pump.

The Fureys at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Bradford on Avon Green Man Festival, Preview HERE. Also find Strange Folk at The Three Horseshoes. Be Like Will at The Boathouse.

Westbury Food & Drink Festival

‘The Mystery Guest Tour Featuring Lady Nade, Daisy Chute, and Izzue Yardley at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Talk in Code at The Castle, Swindon with KGB and The Racket. Here Comes the Crows at the Queen’s Tap. Rush Hour at the Woodlands Edge. Faux Fighters at The Vic. Swindon Festival Of Literature at Swindon Arts Centre has Tony Hawks and a Flash Fiction Slam!

A rally for Palestine in Bath. Sherlock’s Excellent Adventure at The Rondo Theatre. Ma Bessie and her Pigfoot Band at Chapel Arts.

Kings of Lyon and The UK-Strokes at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Sunday 12th

Devizes Lions Sponsored Walk. Jack Grace at The Southgate, from 5pm.

Open Mic at the Red Lion, Lacock.

Melksham Record Fair at Melksham Assembly Hall.

The Ultimate Commitments and Blues Brothers Experience at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Mustard Allegro at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Cantamus Chamber Choir Chichester Psalms at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Schtumm presents AQABA at The Queen’s Head in Box. Mambo Jambo at the Bell, Bath.

Legacy at The Kings Arms, Old Town, Swindon. Swindon Festival Of Literature has a Children & Families Day at Swindon Arts Centre, and the Festival Finale.

Tellison at The Tree House, Frome.

Monday 13th

The Thrill of Love opens at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes. Preview HERE. It runs until 18th May.

Rock The Tots: Movies at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Jack Grace at the Bell, Bath.

Teenage Sequence at The Tree House, Frome.

Tuesday 14th

The Black Feathers at The Piggy Bank Micropub, Calne.

Pale Blue Eyes at the Tree House, Frome.

And that’s all we’ve got for now. Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.

Snap up tickets time: we recommend on Wednesday 15th, the Patsy Gamble Jazz Trio in Bromham, preview HERE. Jonathan Leibovitz at Wiltshire Music Centre.

And the weekend sees Bath International Music Festival begin, The Chilled Out Motorhome and Camper Weekender in Cirencester, Devizes Vegan Market at The Market Place, Dirt Road Band at Long Street Blues Club, with Ruby Darbyshire in support, and Canute’s Plastic Army are at The Southgate. White Horse Soapbox Derby, Westbury and Talk in Code make their debut at The Kings Arms, Amesbury. John Lydon, yes, John Lydon is at the Cheese & Grain, and there’s lots more on our event calendar to boot!

Have a good week, and don’t forget, the Devizes Arts Festival box office is open and waiting for you!

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“The Incident Room” at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, May 1st-4th.

by Ian Diddams
images by Ian Diddams

I was born in 1962.

In 1975 I was 13 years old, in my second year at secondary school.
By 1981 was I was about to take A-levels that summer.

In that time Peter Sutcliffe, a.k.a. “The Yorkshire Ripper” murdered thirteen women and attempted to murder seven others.

I grew up in Kent, two hundred and forty-five miles away from the area of those crimes. I was – am – male. It didn’t affect my life. Not directly. Yet, in retrospect it did touch my life, peripherally. A female friend went to university in that area during half that time – another in another part of Yorkshire similarly. A best friend’s dad was a senior officer in the West Yorkshire Constabulary, though not attached to the police investigations. And it was a dominant, recurring news story, alongside the Northern Irish “troubles”. For six years.

“The Incident Room” by Olivia Hirst and David Byrne, tells the tale of the West Yorkshire police’s investigation, seen through the characters of five C.I.D. and one uniform officers, one civilian special constable, and a journalist. Adding context and background is a party girl and a taxi driver – one a survivor, the other a suspect. It’s a fairly no-holds barred expose of the misguided processes and investigative lines taken, of the egos and personalities that ultimately proved to be so disastrously wrong in the “Ripper Enquiry”. It is also a portrayal of the humans behind those decisions and the impacts on their lives. It carries an increasingly strong message of female suppression, misogyny and general undertones of constant rivalries threaded throughout the story. It is a story of ultimate triumph – but one that is hugely clouded by self-doubts, missed opportunities, ruined careers.

Platform 8 Productions have embraced all the above and delivered it, in spades. The Rondo Theatre’s intimate space works well with the short, sharp-scened focus of the play. Rich Canning has once again excelled with his set design encapsulating the increasingly oppressive and crushing confines of the Millgarth office with areas for external scenes as stage left and right. The design draws the eye into the very nub of the entire issue at hand … the pin board where, as the death toll rises, the board gets filled with the stark photos of the victims, plus the attack survivor, Maureen Long’s. This is a tech heavy show and the tech crew of Will Ward, Alex Latham (who else at the Rondo?!) and Julie Dallimore have delivered director Nadine Comba’s wonderful visions to a tee – time slips with ticking sounds and flickering lights a constant thread as the scenes race through the years of the case, stark office lighting, subdued 4am paperwork and filing… not to forget the disco and driving music of course.

As so the cast… this is a character driven story as well as being a “history”, as opined previously. And the cast perform the characters SO believably. As the play progresses each character grows stronger. There’s George Oldfield, in charge, played by Mark Hale. All brusque and bullish at first, but the job wears him down of course and by the end he is broken, a spent and bitter man. Mark’s mannerisms reminded me of somebody I knew, perfectly… Dick Holland, played by Rich Canning (of set fame!) is Oldfield’s number two and he shows Holland’s devotion to Oldfield and … interest… in special constable and man-hunter Sylvia Swanson played deliciously by Alex Oliviere. PC then DS Andrew Laptew, played by Matt Rushton, grows from “Bradford Twat” to sure footed detective until being crushed by the weight of his realisations over his suspicions that were glossed over and he didn’t push. Steve Brookes came to the cast quite late to play Jim Hobson, the tyre specialist – forthright and convinced of his leads. It’s a small part in the overall play but Steve makes his mark in the opening salvos with Oldfield well. Louche and cocksure Jack Ridgway is superbly acted by Chris Constantine, all swagger and insouciance, delivering his barbed pro-Manchester, anti-Yorkshire remarks to perfection – he is the boyfriend you hope your daughter never brings home. Chris doubles up as sometime suspect, taxi driver Terence Hawkshaw with an interesting 1970s style beard! How does he shave it off so quickly and grow it back again every night ? Then there is conniving, ambitious, feminist Tish Morgan played by Leah Brine with her eye for the main chance and the big scoop and not caring who gets hurt en route, and the survivor Maureen Long acted by Jude Bucklow, capturing the loss of joie de vivre and ultimate depression so poignantly.

That leaves just one character – that of Megan Winterburn, uniformed sergeant and controller of the incident room. Meg is on stage for the entire show – or if she isn’t I must have blinked and missed it. The play – though being a quasi-historical record and about one perpetrator in particular, is really about Meg. Of her struggles against a male dominated workplace and her self-doubt and blame of how she may have missed something along the way. Her in-the-future reflections with Holland frame the story throughout underpinning each section of the investigation. It’s a huge part and the core and crux of the performance and so chapeau to Alexia Jones for a bravado delivery par excellence. Absolutely super.

The play works on multiple levels. Yes, it’s about a famous police investigation. But its also so much more. It’s a play about rivalries. Between different police forces, different counties, different regions, different sexes, different professions. Misogyny is rife, but so is distrust of others – whether they be from Bradford, Manchester, London… or non-coppers. It’s a play about pig headed stubbornness, about detrimental devotion to superiors. About social bigotry. It’s the 1970s in a nutshell…

Ultimately the police get their man. But not through the thousands of hours spent on the investigation – but a chance encounter by two uniforms in a red light district. Two years after Laptew had tried to file a report about the killer. The play thus is really about failure – individual’s failures because of stubbornness, or devotion, or misdirection. Oldfield loses his job, Holland his marriage, Megan her self belief, Laptew his career, Maureen her confidence. Ridgway and Hobson survive to fight another day but tarnished by association.

Its only Tish that “wins” – her career climbs from Yorkshire Post to Daily Mirror to Sunday Times. Whether we are left feeling she is a “winner” is open to conjecture.

And finally… Towards the end of the play Meg comments to Tish about a book to be published about the Ripper and the investigation, that it is isn’t journalism, but merely “entertainment” and “tittle tattle”. It’s a reminder maybe that what we are watching is in some ways “entertainment”. A play in a theatre. About the subject of the book that Meg is decrying. Though I’d suggest “The Incident Room” is far from tittle-tattle.

There are thirteen characters that haven’t had a mention in this review, in the cast list. But without them this story won’t ever have happened, this play never written. This top performance by Platform 8 Productions would not be showing. And its them that we should remember – the people that ended up as a photo on a pin board in …

“The Incident Room”.

Wilma McCann Emily Jackson Irene Richardson Patricia Atkinson Jayne MacDonald Jean Jordan Yvonne Pearson Helen Rytka Vera Millward Josephine Whitaker Barbara Leach Marguerite Walls Jacqueline Hill

“The Incident Room” plays at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath from May 1^st to 4^th 2024

Tickets from https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/bath/rondo-theatre/the-incident-room/e-vqryvo

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 1st-7th May 2024

Beltane, May Day, or just plain bank holiday Monday; whatever you whatchamacallit, it’s the first day of May, and there’s lots to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week. Here’s what we’ve found….

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August; review here.

White horse Arts Art Exhibition at Pamela House, Devizes, runs until 5th May.

Wednesday 1st May

Don’t forget to check our weekly recurring events page as well as the calendar, where you’ll find the regular Devizes Salsa club at The Old School in Market Lavington every Wednesday.

The regular acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Wiltshire Music Centre has a screening of Carmen by the Royal Opera.

The Incident Room opens at The Rondo Theatre, Bath, runs until 4th May. Beyond Baka at the Bell, Bath. Champion Darts at Komedia.

Swindon Gilbert & Sullivan Society Presents Ruddigore at Swindon Arts Centre.

Thursday 2nd

Fashion Against Fear: FearFree Fashion Show at the Condado Lounge, Devizes. Preview here. Rum & Records at the Muck & Dunder.

Annie Dressner at Chapel Arts, Bath. Willie J Healey at Komedia, and Origins 360 Bakey.

The Bug Club at The Tree House, Frome. Jake Bugg at the Cheese & Grain.

Friday 3rd

Midnight Hour at The Three Crowns, Devizes. Mark Colton is at the Pelican.

Josh Kumra at The Barge on Honey Street.

Open Mic at The Parade Cinema, Marlborough.

Annie Dressner is at The Pump, Trowbridge, with Thieves and Ed Blunt.

Plan of Action at the Grapes, Melksham.

Gigspanner at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Jon Amor Trio at The Beehive, Swindon. ZZ Toppd at The Vic.

Marvin Muoneké Quartet at Mount Pleasant Social Club, Bradford-on-Avon. Jacqui Dankworth Trio at Wiltshire Music Centre. Cantaloop at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Somewhere Over England at Chapel Arts, Bath, with support from The Mamils. A Fame event at Komedia.

Sir Ian Botham at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

And it’s festival time! The Magic Teapot opens for the weekend. And Teddy Rocks Festival at Blandford Forum.

Saturday May the 4th Be With You!

Urchfont Scarecrow Festival opens and runs until Monday.

Star Wars Day Park Run at Quakers Walk, Devizes. May Day Fun at The Market Place, from 11am-1pm. A Seed Bomb Workshop at Hillworth Park from 11am-1pm. Garden & Plant Swap at Pamela House. Kidical Mass bicycle ride from 11am in the Market Place.

Jamie R Hawkins is at The Southgate, Devizes. Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse with Ruzz Guitar and Jon Amor as guests, at The Corn Exchange.

Illingworth & George Wilding at the Crown, Bishop’s Cannings.

No Alarms & No Devizes at the Barge, Honey Street.

South West Comedy Show at The Civic, Trowbridge.

Shot by Both Sides at Chippenham Consti Club.

Star Wars Day at Melksham Assembly Hall.

On Remand at The Royal Oak, Wootton Rivers.

Frenzy at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY at American Dream Comics, Bath. Krater Comedy Club, The Big Disco at Komedia.

Gordon Giltrap John Etheridge at Pound Arts, Corsham.

March For Palestine; 11am start at Regent Circus, Swindon. 12 Bars Later at The Swiss Chalet. Pink Mac at The Vic.

The Cuban Brothers at the Cheese & Grain, Frome, with DJ Yoda. Pet Needs at the Tree House.

Sunday 5th

Sour Apple at The Three Crowns, Devizes from 3pm. Jon Amor Trio with guest Jerry Crozier-Cole at The Southgate, from 5pm.

Southwestern (Adam Woodhouse) at the Lamb, Urchfont.

Open Mic at The Barge on Honey Street.

Open Mic at Red Lion, Lacock.

Cousin Norm’s 5th Birthday at Cousin Norm’s, Chippenham.

Open Mic at The Lamb, Trowbridge.

Schtumm…. Presents Catfish at The Queens Head, Box.

Super Blue Moon at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. The Chimpanzees Of Happy Town, a relaxed family concert at Wiltshire Music Centre. Ensemble 360 in the evening at the Centre.

‘Peace, War and 9/11’ followed by Q&A with Matt Campbell and Piers Robinson at Chapel Arts, Bath. Komedia has a free community festival; the groove edition, featuring the Cable Street Collective, Ryan-D-Auria, Badlands Vonj, and Plume.

Shades of Seattle vs Nu-Call at The Vic, Swindon. David Scheel at Swindon Arts Centre.

Clinton Baptiste’s Roller Ghoster at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. Ríoghnach Connolly & Honeyfeet at The Tree House.

Monday 6th

The Reason at The Three Crowns, Devizes.

Dirt Road Acoustic at The Lamb, Urchfont.

Animals Guyz Presents Amazing Animals at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Tuesday 7th

Thanks for the Memories at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Swindon Festival Of Literature opens at Swindon Arts Centre, Dr Caroline Campbell and

Alasdair Beckett-King.

WIG Presents Bath Drag Performer of the year at Komedia.

The Orielles at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

And that’s all we’ve got for now. Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.

Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

Have a good week!

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Led Zep’s Victorian Thatcher Cover Pin-up is Star of His Own Show at Wiltshire Museum!

It’s just as unlikely Jimmy Page, who, it is said, designed the cover of Led Zeppelin 4, could’ve imagined Long Lot, the thatcher in a Victorian postcard discarded in an antique shop near his house in Pangbourne and used in the design, would be the central attraction in an exhibition some fifty-two years after the album was released, as the Thatcher himself would have imagined he would be the subject of a groundbreaking prog-rock album cover! I popped into the official opening of A Wiltshire Thatcher – a Photographic Journey through Victorian Wessex at Wiltshire Museum in Devizes, to sepia-tone my nose….

Researcher from the Regional History Centre at the University of the West of England, Brian Edwards discovered the photograph in November and became something of an overnight sensation with the national press, and a hero to prog-rock fanatics. Now news has moved on, the fable of the uncovering the image has come home to roost, accompanied once again by the collection of its photographer, Ernest Farmer intended it to.

The photograph came from an album titled ‘Reminiscences of a visit to Shaftesbury. Whitsuntide 1892,’ the remaining Victorian photographs from it are of Wiltshire, Dorset and Somerset scenes and some interesting portraits of farm workers, the customary Stonehenge images, and most poignant, the aftermath of a thatch fire in Sixpenny Handley.

They are displayed in the exhibit, alongside information boards about what little we know of Farmer, the rural life he depicted in his works, and information on thatching. The latter particulars might seem odd, being few images here depict thatchers, if it wasn’t for the selling point of the show, Long Lot, who is displayed throughout the exhibit, in interesting ways, such as a model of him, a selfie opportunity, and the merch of a rock legend in the museum shop!

Despite being a leading figure in the development of photography as an art form, which clearly shows through this celebration of his works, little is known about Ernest Farmer.

Ergo, it’s a mixed bag, hinging on Long Lot but far outreaching a monoculture display. One supposes rather than modern day photographers aiming for a particular style, genre or theme, a Victorian photographer was a rarer thing therefore he captured whatever random subjects inspired him. To turn a negative into a positive, it certainly makes the exhibit diverse, and the photographs are fascinating, nonetheless.

It is, then, an exhibit of perchance, or luck, more than anything, and I guess that’s what makes it heterogeneous. Brian told me he’s working two projects down the line from this, in fact, it was never really a project at all, more chance discovery. The exhibition runs until the 1st September, at Wiltshire Museum in Devizes and would delight a number of groups, be they photographers, local historians, farmers or thatchers, anyone interested in West Country history or landscape, and of course, Led Zeppelin fans!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 24th-30th April 2024

One weekend away from Beltane, or May Day to Christains, bank holiday Monday to everyone else, still lots to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week besides. Here’s what we’ve found….

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week…..

Wednesday 24th

The regular acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Don’t forget to check our weekly recurring events page as well as the calendar, where you’ll find the regular Devizes Salsa club at The Old School in Market Lavington every Wednesday.

Open Mic at Stallards, Trowbridge.

Joe Martin performs his debut album “Empty Passenger-Seat,” stripped back and acoustic at Chapel Arts, Bath. Skylight opens at the Rondo Theatre, running until Saturday. Manfredi Funk Initiative at the Bell, Bath.

The Big Jam Session at the Vic, Swindon.

Thursday 25th

Valuation & Buying Event at Gerrard’s Auction Room in Devizes Town Hall.

Runny Snotts’ regular acoustic sessions at the Neeld, Chippenham. PSG Choirs’ free taster session at King Alfred’s Hall. The ELO Encounter’s Blue Sky Tour at the Neeld. LGBGT+ drop in session at Chippenham Community Hub.

The Jersey New Boys at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Mellow sax classics with Timeout at the Old Bell, Warminster.

The Blackheart Orchestra at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Sultans of Swingers at The Mallard, Lyneham.

Cooper’s Creek & Atari PIlot (solo) at The Tuppenny, Swindon. Scott Mickelson at the Vic.

Lucy Beaumont – The Trouble & Strife at The Wyvern Theatre.

The Leisure Society Trio at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Friday 26th

Devizes Pubic Livng Room meet at the Cheese Hall every Friday from 1pm. Indie Disco with DJs Stevie MC & Thorfinn at the Exchange in Devizes.

Adam Woodhouse at the Barge, Seend Cleeve.

Duelling Pianos Night with Will Blake and Dino Baptiste at The King Alfred Hall, Holt.

Scott Mickelson at the Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

The Often Herd at the Pump in Trowbridge, Masa in support. Park Lane Big Band at The Civic.

Bill Laurance at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Captain Accident & The Disasters at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

The First Raitt Band, a tribute to Bonnie Raitt at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Rachel Parris – Poise at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. The Ramonas at the Vic, with Death Pop in support.

Sack Sabbath at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Saturday 27th

Family Games every Saturday at Devizes Library from 10am. April Sighthound Stroll, Devizes. Devizes Scooter Club has a 70s-80s disco at Devizes FC.

The Roughcut Rebels at The Three Crowns. Barrelhouse at The Southgate. Devizes LGBTQ+ Drag Queen Bingo Night at the Wyvern Club.

Rod Stewart Tribute at Erlestoke Golf Club.

The Chaos Brothers at The Lamb, Marlborough. Karaoke at the Bear. Two Complicated at the Crown in Aldbourne.

12 Bars Later at The Talbot, Calne.

Melksham Makers’ Market at the Market Place. Bob Marley Tribute Night at Spencer’s Club in Melksham. Delray Rockets at Melksham Rock n Roll Club.

There’s a Doorway Sleepout in Chippenham. Kandu Arts New Music Showcase at the Rotary Club on Station Hill.

James and the Cold Gun at The Pump, Trowbridge.

Joanna MacGregor at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.Joe Hunt at the Castle Inn. SicNote at The Boathouse.

Richard Herring’s Can I Have My Ball Back Tour’s warm-up at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Elevation at Tucker’s Grave Inn, Faulkland.

The Scribes at the Vic, Swindon. One Chord Wonders at Ashford Road Club. SALOS – The Greatest Show Concert at Swindon Arts Centre. Simon Reeve – To The Ends Of The Earth at The Wyvern Theatre.

Mother Vulture at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Vintage Bazaar at the Cheese & Grain, Frome, followed by Paul Young’s behind the lens.

Sunday 28th

Sunflower Events’ Artisan Market & Gift Fair at the Corn Exchange, Devizes. April Sighthound Stroll, Devizes.

Open Mic at the Red Lion, Lacock.

Corsairs at the Bear, Marlborough.

April Open Mic at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham. Blue Bus at Wellington Place, Hullavington.

Jinder & Mark Harrison at The Queen’s Head,Box. The Dirty Weather at the Bell, Bath.

Monday 29th

Praying Mantis & Soulweaver at the Vic, Swindon.

ViperTime at the Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 30th

Let’s Walk – Caen Hill & Jubilee Wood, Devizes. Open Mic at the Tap at the Peppermill, Devizes.

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some technical gubbings to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.

Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

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A View to a Thrill

“The Thrill of Love” at the Wharf Theatre

by Ian Diddams
images by Chris Watkins Media

Just over a year ago, the Wharf theatre performed a sell out show “Ladies Day” written by Amanda Whittington. In less than a month’s time they are to revisit the same playwright’s work, with her drama “The Thrill of Love” featuring the turbulent and tragic story of the nightclub hostess and later manageress Ruth Ellis.

The story revolves around five characters – Doris Judd (Mitzi Baehr) , cleaner, Detective Inspector Jack Gale (Sean Andrews), Vickie Martin (Jess Whiley), club hostess, Sylvia Shaw (Mari Webster), club manageress and of course, Ruth Ellis (Freddie Underwood). Directed by Debby Wilkinson.

This evening I was privy to a rehearsal, watching the cast working through several key scenes. I arrived as Debby and Freddie were discussing the shooting scene – straight into the core of the plot – then to a discussion about Ruth’s taking control of her own “Little Club”. A request for biographies to the cast for the program, and then we were onto the stage.

The set is taking shape – the nightclub takes centre stage with tables, chairs, lamps, a bar, a record player… parquet flooring to come blurring into the extremities where prison cell, police interview rooms and the outside world are positioned. It’s a simple set but everything is pertinent, in place and neither too much not too little.

With three weeks to go until run week, it is immediately clear that the cast are not only comfortable with each other but complement each other perfectly. Characterisation is spot on, from world weary Shaw, mirroring Gale, to Martin’s youthful exuberance, Ellis’ glamourous and troubled personality … and good girl Doris with a heart of gold. I read the superb script a few weeks ago, but these actors are already bringing the written word to life quite wonderfully, all aided and abetted by Debby’s suggestions, tweaks and developments as the evening progressed. Their use of the full depth and width of the stage kept the action flowing beautifully from nightclub to prison cell, to crematorium and back to the club.

The cast are well off book (that’s thesp-speak for “don’t need the script” !!) and while the prompt is used when needed the lines are there. The production is in a good place.

So with a clever set, top casting, smart direction, and class acting what else does “The Thrill of Love” offer? How about the sublime music of Billie Holliday? The show is interspersed her songs and cleverly so… each song underpinning a scene’s messages and plot. It’s a wonderful symbiosis of art, and worthy of watching.

I’ve deliberately not given away too much of the plot this early hoping this piece serves as a teaser – the Wharf’s last three shows were all sell-outs and this one deserves to sell-out too. I’ll be back for a full review at the start of show week but don’t wait for that fuller review … I urge you to get tickets early while you can. You will not be disappointed.

Trust me… I’m a reviewer 😉

“The Thrill of Love”, by Amanda Whittington, is performed at The Wharf Theatre between May 13^th and May 18^th, at 1930 each evening. Tickets are available from the Wharf website at https://www.wharftheatre.co.uk/show/the-thrill-of-love, or from Devizes Library.

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 17th-23rd April 2024

Here we go with what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week, exciting stuff, I know!

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.….

Wednesday 17th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Emmanuel Coppey and Antoine Préat at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Two times BBC Folk Award winner Daoirí Farrell is at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Memory Cinema, for those with dementia, at Swindon Arts Centre are showing A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum. Tom Houghton’s It’s Not Ideal at Swindon Arts Centre. Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out at The Wyvern Theatre.

Show Of Hands – Full Circle Farewell Tour at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Thursday 18th

Quiz Night at the Peppermill, Devizes in aid of The Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home.

PSG Choir taster session at the King Alfred Hall, Chippenham.

Thieves & Skiddy at The Tuppenny, Swindon. The Big Fat Monthly Quiz at the Vic.

Memory Sing at Swindon Arts Centre. Primary School Assembly Bangers Live! at Swindon Arts Centre. Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out at The Wyvern Theatre.

Fretn Keyz with Dave Howell at Rude Giant Beerhouse, Salisbury.

Friday 19th

Youth Work Auction Fundraiser at John O’Gaunt School, Trowbridge.

Take the Stage at the Neeld, in Chippenham. Chippenham Beer Festival too.

Bradford Roots Special at The Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon with Billy in the Lowground, Daisy Chapman and Thieves; Ed’s pick of the week, that one is! Preview here.

The Droogs & John E Viztic at The Three Horseshoes in Bradford-on-Avon.

People Like Us at Prestbury Sports Bar, Westbury.

Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival, preview here. Draining The Swamp at Swindon Arts Centre. Barrelhouse & The Leon Daye Band at the Vic.

Wingin’ It at The George & Dragon, Salisbury. A Murder Mystery at Salisbury Cathedral.

Johnny Cash Revisited at Chapel Arts, Bath.

ex Wishbone Ash, Martin Turner is at The Tree House, Frome.

Saturday 20th

Roma Antoine Exhibit and Art Sale at Tonka Bean, Devizes. Devizes Swap Shop at St James Church. The Bren Jones Big Band at the Wharf Theatre. Strange Folk at The Southgate. Down the Hatch at The Three Crowns. DJ Tappa Tappa at the Exchange.

Oriental Antiques Indigo Antiques Open Day at Manningford Bruce, Pewsey. Dutty Moonshine at the Barge on HoneyStreet. @59 at The Woodborough Social Club.

Marty’s Fake Family at The Pilot, Melksham.

The Future Sound of Trowbridge #8 at the Pump in Trowbridge; preview Here.

Mighty Magic Animal at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Griff Rhys Jones: The Cat’s Pyjamas at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Pop-Up Bowie at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Driftwood at Tucker’s Grave Inn, Faulkland.

Junkyard Dogs at The King’s Arms, Amesbury. Are You Worthy & Grant Sharkey at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury. Salisbury Pride Fundraiser at The Hope & Anchor, Salisbury.

Rosie Holt – That’s Politainment! at Swindon Arts Centre. Wrong Jovi at the Vic. The Worried Men at The Queen’s Tap. The Tin Shack Band at The Woodlands Edge.

The Shires at the Cheese & Grain, Frome is sold out, so too is Bare Jams at the Tree House. Try the 41 Fords at The Sun; we love the 41 Fords!

Sunday 21st

Mr Griff at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm. Devizes Town Band Showtime Sensations at the Corn Exchange, Devizes.

Open Mic at Red Lion, Lacock.

Jazz on Sunday Afternoon at Little Cheverall Village Hall.

The Dirty Weather Blues Revue at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

VW Campfest begins at Stonehenge.

Mini Ravers – Spring Tour at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd

I got nothing, yet; keep a keen eye on our updating event calendar, as I’m way behind updating it, and still got the front garden to sort out! Weeds, huh? I used go out to the garden to smoke de grass, nowadays I just go out to the garden to cut de grass!!

Have a good week!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 10th-16th April 2024

Spring has sprung! There were two snails on my milk-float this morning, opening “doing it,” without shame; absolute filth! …. I should have filmed it (in a jealous rage!) there might be a gap in the market for mollusc porn! Birds, bees, now snails, they’re all getting some!

Okay, let’s get you out and about, and you never know your luck, you too can be like those snails! Here’s what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week…..

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Ongoing: Devizes RAF Squadron still have their Easter Egg Hunt running across Devizes, until 14th April; I’d have eaten the lot by now!

And then There Were None runs at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes until Saturday; review HERE.

Wednesday 10th

Crafty Kids at Hillworth Park, Devizes. Acoustic Jam at The Southgate. White Horse Opera’s La Boheme at Lavington School opens and runs up to Saturday.

Runny Snotts Open Mic at the Three Crowns, Chippenham.

Dom Martin Solo Tour with special guest: Demi Marriner, at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Easter Panto, Beauty And The Beast at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Pop Kids Mini Rave at the Vic, with a Big Jam Session in the evening.

Thursday 11th

PSG Choir taster session at the King Alfred Hall, Chippenham.

Boo Hewerdine plus support: Vlado Nosal at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Tommy Hale & the Magnificent Bastards at the Beehive, Swindon. Lost Revellers at The Tuppenny. Tanwood Youth Theatre’s Frozen Jr. opens at Swindon Arts Centre, runs until Sunday. An Evening Of Burlesque at The Wyvern Theatre.

Friday 12th

Karaoke Night with Karl Maggs at the Exchange, Devizes.

Open Mics at The Barge on HoneyStreet, and The Parade Cinema, Marlborough.

Americana Beer Festival at The Bell, Bowden Hill, Lacock.

Sound of the Sirens at the Pump, Trowbridge, with Bluebeard in support.

This Carpenters Masquerade at Melksham Assembly Hall.

West of England Youth Orchestra Relaxed Family Concert at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Heavy For the Tropics at The Three Horseshoes.

Jon Amor Trio at The Ram, Bath. Emma Stevens Band’s “Bloom” Tour plus support from BLÁNID at Chapel Arts.

Barrelhouse at The New Inn, Swindon. Motorheadache at the Vic. Plucking Different at the Beehive. 12 Bars Later at The Village Inn, Shaw. Sir Bradley Wiggins at The Wyvern Theatre.

The Scribes’ Boombox at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Saturday 13th

Museum Explorers Club – Animals in the Museum at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. Museum Explorers club is for 5-7 year olds and is an introduction to popular topics such as the Romans and Ancient Egyptians. The Great British Yarn Crawl at Pins & Needles on Snuff Street, Devizes.

Humdinger at The Three Crowns, Devizes. Cooper’s Creek at The Southgate. Dreamettes at Devizes Conservative Club. And Stevie MC is in the mix at the Exchange.

But, Editor’s Pick of the Week is The Marley Experience at the Corn Exchange, Devizes. I’ve been looking forward to this since CrownFest last summer; hope to see you there…jammin’ ‘til the jam is done!

Meatloud at Melksham Assembly Hall. The Corsairs at The Grapes. The Singing Herdsman at The Pilot.

The Chaos Brothers at The Talbot, Calne.

The Monkey Dolls at the Lamb, Marlborough.

The Exact Opposite at the Pump, Trowbridge.

The Idle Silence, Cult Python, & Otterman at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Fire & Rain & American Pie at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Stockers Street Food Festival at The Hop, Swindon. The Daybreakers at the Vic.

The Good Old Fashioned Lover Boys at Tuckers Grave Inn, Faulkland.

The JB Conspiracy at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Top Secret – The Magic of Science at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. Mother Vulture at The Tree House.

Sunday 14th

CSF Wrestling at the Corn Exchange, Devizes. Jon Amor Trio Special with guest Stevie Watts at The Southgate.

Open Mic at Red Lion, Lacock.

Deadlight Dance’s The Wiltshire Gothic Album Launch at The Blue Boar, Aldbourne. Album reviewed HERE.

Murder Trial Tonight at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Barney & Kelly at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Monday 15th

Macbeth at Swindon Arts Centre, also runs on Tuesday.

Tuesday 16th

The Lost Trades at The Piggybank, Calne.

Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival Fringe event for Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon, A celebration of Herbie Hancock, with Tom Berge.

Poetika at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

And, while we’re planning ahead, April is hotting up, believe me, loads of good, good, even gooder stuff and stuff gooder than them! Have a look at the coming month HERE.

Have a good week, One Love.

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“Veronica’s Room” at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, January 27th-February 1st 2025

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Returning to Kaya Street For Fuller Soul Sessions

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New Album from Illingworth; Man Made of Glass

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“Jerusalem” at the Mission Theatre, Bath, January 21st-25th.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 3rd – 9th April 2024

First week of April, there’s no fooling you, here’s what we’ve found to do…..

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Wednesday 3rd

Crafty Kids in Hillworth Park, Devizes. RAF Cadets’ Easter Egg Hunt continues across Devizes until 14th April. Easter Bouncy Castle Kingdom on the Green until 5th April.

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer in Wiltshire – Free Talk at Melksham Library.

Screening of The Royal Opera Madama Butterfly at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Simon Munnery’s Jerusalem at Swindon Arts Centre.

Thursday 4th

There’s Easter themed holiday activities at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. Rum & Records at the Muck & Dunder, Devizes.

Andrew Hurst is at St Nicholas Church, Bromham.

Hooch at The Tuppenny, Swindon. Subhumans at the Vic. Griff Rhys Jones: The Cat’s Pyjamas at Swindon Arts Centre. The Illegal Eagles at The Wyvern Theatre.

Salisbury Open Mic at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Plumhall at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Friday 5th

Brian Poole at Long Street Blues Club, Devizes.

Teenage Halloween, Start The Sirens and Trashed at The Pump, Trowbridge. Open Mic at Newtown Social Club.

12 Bars Later at The 3 Brewers, Corsham.

The Forgetting Curve & Little Villains at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Kammerphilharmonie Europa at the Wiltshire Music Centre.

Swindon Old Town Comedy Club at Christ Church. Black Parade at the Vic. Phil Ellis’ Excellent Comedy Show at Swindon Arts Centre. King of Pop starring Navi and Jennifer Batten at The Wyvern Theatre.

Martin Carthy at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Norman Jay’s Norman Soul at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Saturday 6th

Jamie Williams & The Roots Collective at The Southgate, Devizes. The Clones at The Three Crowns. SIX: The Musical – Teen Edition at the Corn Exchange. Back to the 80s party night at the Bear Hotel.

Mick Jogger & the Stones Experience at Seend Community Centre.

Siren at The Pilot, Melksham.

John Hackett Band at the Pump, Trowbridge.

Cara Dillon at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Desperate Measures, The Setbacks & Death Traps at the Three Horseshoes.

John Otway & Wild Willy Barrett at The Merlin Theatre, Bath.

The Beatles Complete Tribute Show at the Athenaeum Centre, Warminster.

Gaz Brookfield is in the Tent, at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

41 Fords at Tucker’s Grave Inn, Faulkland.

Motley Crude at the Vic, Swindon. Swindon Recital Series at Swindon Arts Centre. Northern Live – Do I Love You at The Wyvern Theatre.

A Band Called Malice at The Tree House, Frome.

Sunday 7th

Jim Blair at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

Open Mic at The Red Lion, Lacock.

Little Wander Presents…Ria Lina at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. The Ben Fletcher Band at the Three Horseshoes.

Dreamboys at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Monday 8th

And then There Were None opens at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, running until Saturday.

Tuesday 9th

Fish n Chip Supper & Quiz Night in aid of RNLA at Devizes Conservative Club.

Café Concert at St Andrew’s Chippenham.

Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival Fringe, a Celebration of Wes Montgomery with Nigel Price at Jazz Knights, The Royal Oak, Swindon.

And, while we’re planning ahead, April is hotting up, believe me, loads of good, good, even gooder stuff and stuff gooder than them! Have a look at the coming month HERE.

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Led Zeppelin’s Cover Thatcher Photographer is the Subject for Wiltshire Museum Exhibit

November was one crazy month for our friend and researcher from the Regional History Centre at the University of the West of England, Brian Edwards. Undoubtedly our only friend from the Regional History Centre at the University of the West of England!

Brian still found the time to chat with me, despite national media hot on the story and hounding him. I didn’t follow the scoop up with a feature, at the time, as it was all over the national news before I’d put the kettle on. Something Andy Warhol apparently said about being famous for fifteen minutes, which it’s likely he didn’t, but there you are. Brian certainly was so, more than poor ol’ Lot Long, the thatcher subject of Victorian photographer Ernest Farmer, who subsequently became the both unlikely and unsuspecting cover pin-up for a Led Zeppelin album…probably on minimal wage too!

Since the national sensation has retracted somewhat, the amazing find is being brought back local, as Wiltshire Museum in Devizes opens an exhibition celebrating the work of Ernest Farmer, on April 6th, and running until the 1st September. It’s going to be an interesting one, as little is known about the photographer, despite being a leading figure in the development of photography as an art form.

A Wiltshire Thatcher – a Photographic Journey through Victorian Wessex, will show how Farmer captured the spirit of people, villages and landscapes of Wiltshire and Dorset that were so much of a contrast to his life in London. While I’m sure there will be some fascinating photographs on display, of course, the kingpin to it all is this world renowned image of the elderly thatcher carrying a large bundle of sticks on his back and still coming up smiling! An iconic 1971 cover for famously featuring no words, Led Zeppelin IV has sold more than 37 million copies worldwide. The framed image in a hint of rural and urban contrasts is understood to have been discovered by Robert Plant in an antique shop near Jimmy Page’s house in Pangbourne, still its origins were unknown even to the band.

The origin of the central figure has remained a mystery for over half a century; that’s where our Brian stepped into the story. He recently discovered it in a late Victorian photograph album. His research involved monitoring everyday sources that stimulated public engagement with Wiltshire’s past. While following up on some early photographs of Stonehenge, Brian came across the Victorian photograph Led Zeppelin made familiar over half a century ago, and likely, being a bit of headbanger in his past, nearly spilled his coffee all over it in shock!! (He’s going to love me for saying that bit!)

The exhibit promises some exceptional Victorian photographs from Wiltshire, Dorset and Somerset, featured in Ernest Farmer’s photograph album titled ‘Reminiscences of a visit to Shaftesbury. Whitsuntide 1892. A present to Auntie from Ernest.’ There’s over a hundred architectural views and street scenes together with a few portraits of rural workers.

So, if there’s a feeling you get, when you look to the West, and your spirit is crying for leaving, do check this exhibit out; I will, and no doubt you’ll want me to report my findings. Why not strap a bundle of hazel on my back while you’re at it, and I’ll thatch your roof for you too?!!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 27th March – 2nd April 2024

The first Kamikaze moth of the year dive-bombed my face the other morning. Forget blossoming trees and tulips, that’s a milkman’s sure sign of spring…because we wear a headtorch, you see? Oh, never mind, what do you care?! You just want me to tell you what’s happening over the eggtastic week in the wilds of Wiltshire; suppose so, if I must! Happy Easter one and all!

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Wednesday 27th

Last day to catch Vowvas film screening at Parnella House, Devizes, see poster for details.

Devizes Books Presents…The Island Continent; A trip through the history and culture of Australia at Wiltshire Museum. From the achievements of early Aboriginal tribes, through visits from European explorers, the inhabitants of the Red Centre and finally to the work of Australian imports to this country, they celebrate all that is great about the Antipodean life and culture. With contributions from Thomas Keneally, Nevil Shute, Clive James, Germaine Greer and Billy Connolly. An evening devised and introduced by Lewis Cowen. 7pm for 7.30pm. Tickets, £6, includes a glass of wine or soft drink and nibbles. Tickets available from Devizes Books cash only please. Or book by phoning 01380 725944 and pay cash on the door.

The regular Green Grub Club at St James, Devizes. And Acoustic Jam at the Southgate.

Opening night of Editor’s Pick of Week, Devizes Musical Theatre brings Sister Act to Daunsty’s School in West Lavington.

Siân Dicker: Walton’s Songbook and Aly Bain & Phil Cunningham, both at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Rondo Variety Show at The Rondo Theatre, Bath. Bethlehem Casuals at The Bell, Bath.

Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard at The Tree House, Frome.

Thursday 28th

Starting Thursday and running all weekend, Wadworth have open days at the Wadworth Brewery & Tap Shop, Devizes, promising a “We’ll Meet Again Big Weekend.”

Regular PSG Choir workshop at King Alfred Hall, Chippenham.

Stuart Rolfe and Becky Lawrence at The Old Bell, Warminster.

Robert Brown at The Beehive, Swindon. Flo Parker Bombosch & Sienna Wileman at The Tuppenny. And it’s Vic Fest 2024 at the Vic, celebrating its tenth year, music all Easter “Band” Holiday Weekend: eggs opening at 7:30pm with Chasing Dolls, Ritual Divide, Kotonic, Trashed and Falls On Deaf Ears.

Luisa Omielan’s Bitter at Swindon Arts Centre, and The Best Of Queen at the Wyvern.

Friday 29th

Easter Bunny Hunt across Devizes by the Devizes RAF Cadets, all weekend.

People Like Us at The Three Crowns, Devizes.

Some reggae and soca with David Brewster at the Bear, Marlborough.

Future Sound of Trowbridge #7 at the Pump, Trowbridge with Nothing Rhymes With Orange, SOAK and Feedback. Junkyard Dogs at The Red Admiral, Trowbridge.

Marty’s Fake Family at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham. Regular Music event at the Cause Cafe in Chippenham.

Iain Ballamy’s Fascinada at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. The Boot Hill All Stars at The Three Horseshoes.

Funkkinsteins at The Beehive, Swindon. The Chaos Brothers at The Ashford Road Centre. A Country Night in Nashville at the Wyvern. Vic Fest continues at the Vic, with Truck, Nervendings, Men In Vests, The Belladonna Treatment and Fluff.

Tool Shed: A Tribute to Tool at The Tree House, Frome. General Levy at the Cheese & Grain – amazing, and it doesn’t look sold out yet!

Saturday 30th

Melksham Lions Easter Egg Hunt.

Tom Davis & The Bluebirds at The Southgate, Devizes. Funked Up at the Pelican.

Nick Harper’s Tempus Fugitive tour at St Peter’s, Marlborough. Barrelhouse at The Lamb. And a reggae party with Razah-Hi-Fi at the Royal Oak.

Josh Kumra at the Barge, HoneyStreet.

The Unpredictables at The Bell, Great Cheverell.

Brad Stevens at The Consti Club, Chippenham.

The Lost Trades at The Pump, Trowbridge, sold out I’m afraid. Be Like Will at the West Wilts Con Club in Trowbridge. Miss Bridy & The Two Notes at Gloucester Road Conservative Club. The Ultimate Retro Disco Party at the Civic.

The Buttmonkeys at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. The Mix at St Margaret’s Hall.

The Blue Moon Band at Tucker’s Inn, Faulkland.

The Jukebox Graduates at The Swiss Chalet, Swindon. SGO at The Beehive. The Chaos Brothers at The Ashford Road Club. Awakening Savannah at The Woodlands Edge.

Marquee Square Heroes at Swindon Arts Centre. Bowie Live at the Wyvern. And Vic Fest at the Vic has Modern Evils, Life In Mono, Bluntnose, Sebastian & Me, Nothing Rhymes With Orange and Colour of Bone.

Reuben’s Daughters at the New Inn, Bath.

Junkyard Dogs at The Sun, Frome. The Wurzels at the Cheese & Grain. Viva Morrissey at The Tree House.

Sunday 31st

Scrambled Eggs Easter Hunt at Hillworth Park, Devizes. Illingworth at The Three Crowns. Adam Woodhouse’s Thieves at The Southgate, highly recommended if you like your Americana.

Open Mic at the Red Lion, Lacock.

Junkyard Dogs at Calne Liberal Club.

Rob Clamp at The Barge, HoneyStreet.

Open Mic at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

Sunday at Vic Fest, Swindon sees Kid Klumsy, Visceral Noise Department, AnyMinuteNo, Mr Badaxe, Rebel Station, Disruptive Influence, Bear Noir and Dangermind, from 5:30pm.

James Hollingworth at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Authentics at Tucker’s Inn, Faulkland.

Moonlit Poachers with Jake Puntis at the Long Room in Box.

Carmina 3 at The Bell, Bath, and a Palestine fundraiser with DJs Goodgroove, JayCee, and others, see poster.

Monday 1st April

Canal & River Trust’s Let’s Walk through Caen Hill & Jubilee Wood. South Western at The Three Crowns, Devizesfrom 3pm-5pm.

Junkyard Dogs at The Red Lion, Lacock.

Tuesday 2nd

Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival Fringe presents at Celebration of Stan Getz with Terry Quninney, for Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon

And, while we’re on about planning ahead, April is hotting up, believe me, loads of good, good, even gooder stuff and stuff gooder than them! Have a gander at the coming month HERE.

I would recommend Andrew Hurst at St Nicholas Church in Bromham Thursday 4th, Brian Poole at Long Street Blues Club Friday 5th, Mick Jogger at Seend Community Hall on Saturday 6th and the John Hackett Band at the Pump, or Cara Dillon at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Following week, you can find And Then There Were None opening at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes Monday 8th, and the Marley Experience on 13th April at Devizes Corn Exchange; unmissable.

Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by FB messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!

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Big up the Easter weekend, remember Easter is a time for celebrating the coming of spring, the beauty it encompasses, and the bringing of new life to the world…. by all means cover yourself in melted chocolate and ask your partner to get licking, but unless you’re prepared for all the gubbings bringing a new life into the world personally presents, be sensible and pop a Johnny on it! Filth, I know, but only the headstrong read this far!!

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“A Streetcar Named Desire” at The Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, November 27th-30th.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 20th – 26th March 2024

Here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire, hold onto your hats!

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.…

Ongoing: The Mousetrap at the Wyvern, Swindon runs until Saturday 23rd.

Wednesday 20th

Green Grub Club at St James, Devizes. Acoustic Jam at the Southgate.

Daniel Kemish at Chapel Arts, Bath. Tuto Tribe atThe Bell, Bath.

Thursday 21st

Iona Lane and Ella Clayton at the Pump, Trowbridge.

Jim Blair at The Beehive, Swindon. Somerset Velvet & Hatty Taylor at The Tuppenny.

Memory Sing at Swindon Arts Centre.

Adam’s Apple Jazz Trio at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Sylvertones at the Old Bell, Warminster.

Desperados (Eagles tribute) at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 22nd

Devizes Ghost Walk with John Girvan. Eddie Martin Trio at The Southgate, Devizes. DJ Stevie MC at the Exchange.

Open Mic at The Barge, HoneyStreet

Damm! at The Bear, Marlborough

Band of Others at The Grapes, Melksham.

Take The Stage at the Neeld, Chippenham.

Eddie Gripper Trio at the Civic, Trowbridge. Wiltshire Rural Music Fundraiser at Emmanuals Yard.

Pussycat & The Dirty at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Furlined at The Beehive, Swindon. Moving Pictures at The Vic.

Ezio at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Rhythm Presents Funkagenda DJs at 23 Bath Street, Frome.

Saturday 23rd

Easter Egg Hunt at All Cannings. Jumble Sale at St Andrew’s Church, Devizes: 10-11am. John Rutter’s Requiem at St Andrew’s Church. Eddie Holgate Trio at the Southgate, Devizes.

Spring Concert at St Mary’s Church, Marlborough. Swipe Right at The Bear, Marlborough.

Peaky Blinders at The Pilot, Melksham. Rockin’ The Joint at Melksham Rock n Roll Club.

The Worried Men at The Talbot, Calne.

Radiation Sickness at The Consti Club, Chippenham. Counterfeit Quo, Status Quo Tribute Band at the Neeld.

Kevin Brown’s Shackdusters at the Pump, Trowbridge.

Moments of Pleasure; the Music of Kate Bush at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

M&W and Underbliss at The Three Horseshoes.

Soul’d Out at Tucker’s Graveyard, Faulkland.

Solarbird at the Duck, Laverstock. Rob Clamp at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Rachael Sage at Chapel Arts, Bath. Paul Foot’s Dissolve at The Rondo Theatre, Bath.

A World Music Club at The Beehive, Swindon. Biffy McClyro at The Vic, Swindon.

Lottery Winners at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. Revelation Roots at the Tree House.

Sunday 24th

Sunflower Easter Fair at Devizes Corn Exchange: 11-4pm.

Josh Pugh’s Existin’ La Vida Loca at Swindon Arts Centre. Jonathan Pie at the Wyvern, Swindon.

Junkyard Dogs at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

The F.O.S. Brothers at The Bell, Bath.

Stevie Wonder tribute The Wonder of Stevie at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Monday 25th

The Great Big Dance Off at the Wyvern, Swindon.

Kevin Figes’ Wallpaper Music at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 26th

Spring Wreath Making at Hillworth Park, Devizes. And, it must be the first time Editor’s Pick of Week is on a Tuesday! The James Oliver Band play Devizes Conservative Club.

Jazz Knight’s Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival Fringe Event at The Royal Oak, Swindon, is a celebration of Grant Green with Chris Cobbson. How Sweet It Is at Swindon Arts Centre.

Rhod Gilbert & The Giant Grapefruit at the Wyvern.

Sue Harding at The Bell, Bath.

And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some important things to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.

And planning ahead, don’t forget Devizes Musical Theatre brings us Sister Act at Dauntsey’s School from Wednesday 27th until Saturday 30th March. Next week also sees Vic-Fest at the Vic in Swindon, with a huge line-up, People Like Us are at The Three Crowns, Devizes on Friday, while Nothing Rhymes with Orange headline the Pump in Trowbridge, The Lost Trades are there on Saturday. General Levy at Cheese & Grain Friday, The Wurzels on Saturday!

Nearly into April, where I would recommend Andrew Hurst at St Nicholas Church in Bromham Thursday 4th, Brian Poole at Long Street Blues Club Friday 5th, Mick Jogger at Seend Community Hall on Saturday 6th and the John Hackett Band at the Pump, or Cara Dillon at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Following week, you can find And Then There Were None opening at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes Monday 8th, and the Marley Experience on 13th April at Devizes Corn Exchange; unmissable.

Have a good week!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 28th February- 5th March 2024

Come on spring! Oh well, here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire, hold onto your hats, there’s lots to get through….

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week. Nothing ongoing on our list, so, let’s jump right into the week….

Find a podcast of everything listed, sprinkled with some great local music below. It’s only a half hour long, trial thing, see how it goes, give it a listen, let me know what you think, especially if you’re the kind of person who cannot be bothered to read this! Music comes from Ruby Darbyshire, Canute’s Plastic Army, Fly Yeti Fly, Ruzz Guitar with Peter Gage, and the Birdsmens.

Wednesday 6th

Green Grub Club at St James, Devizes. Acoustic Jam at the Southgate.

Eldermirth, the elderly daytime comedy show at The Neeld,Chippenham.

Cantaloop at The Bell, Bath.

Swindon Old Town Comedy Club at The Hop Inn with: Alex Kitson. Ross Noble at the Wyvern, Swindon. The Western Players – Outside Edge at Swindon Arts Centre, running until 9th March.

Thursday 7th

Editor’s Pick of the Week; Jon Amor Trio Special with Ian Siegal at The Southgate, Devizes. Rum & Records at the Muck & Dunder.

PSG Choirs free taster session at King Alfred Hall, Chippenham.

Junkyard Dogs at The Old Bell, Warminster.

Canute’s Plastic Army at The Beehive, Swindon. Mark Harrison at The Tuppenny. Taylormania at the Wyvern.

North Sea Gas at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Mobius Loop at 23 Bath Street, Frome. Sam Sweeney Band at The Tree House. Paul McKenna: Success For Life at the Cheese & Grain.

Friday 8th

Devizes Ghost Walk: with John Girvan. Cobalt Fire at The Southgate, Devizes. Palooza house night at The Exchange.

Seend Village Get Together at Seend Community Hall.

Frankisoul at the Pump, Trowbridge, with Syncopation Station.

Take the Stage at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Rewind to the 90’s – Kevin and Perry look–alikes at Venom Nightclub, Westbury.

Brasher, Eat Your Own Head, & Bad News First at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Junkyard Dogs at The Boathouse.

Rob Heron & The Tea Pad Orchestra at Chapel Arts, Bath. The Living Room, Jim Godfrey at the Grapes.

Shepherds Pie at The Vic, Swindon. At-It at The Queen’s Tap. Showaddywaddy at the Wyvern.

Saturday 9th

Wiltshire Climate Alliance’s Green Open Homes event opens and runs until 17th March. It is an opportunity to ask a local resident about an energy saving improvement that they’ve made, and see if it might work for you. On an event day, people who have made energy saving improvements open up their homes to share their experiences.

Matt & Tom at The Three Crowns, Devizes. Ruzz Guitar Trio at The Southgate. Matchbox Mutiny at the Moonrakers.

Fly Yeti Fly at Keevil Folk Club.

Pancho & Bear at Woodbrough Social Club.

Static Moves at the Lamb, Marlborough.

Scott Doonican at the Pump, Trowbridge. Marty’s Fake Family at The Greyhound.

Back to the 80s party night at Spencer’s Club, Melksham. Twice Bitten at The Pilot.

Phantom Lymb at The Talbot, Calne.

North Wiltshire Symphony Orchestra at St Andrew’s in Chippenham. Abba Sensations at the Neeld, Chippenham.

The Saga Louts at the Swiss Chalet, Swindon. Ghost UK with Phantom Droid at The Vic.

Black Rose at The Woodland’s Edge. Dear Zoo at the Wyvern, Swindon.

Trowbridge Symphony Orchestra at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Full Tone Orchestra’s The Queen Symphony at Bath Abbey. Mumma Quiche and LC Hammered at The Bell, Bath.

Baskery at the Tree House, Frome. Mad Dog Mcrea at The Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 10th- Mother’s Day – don’t forget!!

Kate at The Three Crowns, Devizes.

The Worried Men at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Mother’s Day Jazz concert feat. trumpeter Laura Jurd & WYJO at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Joli Blon at The Bell, Bath

RPA Level Up Present ‘Actually I Can’ at Swindon Arts Centre. Dear Zoo at the Wyvern, Swindon

Monday 11th

Chippenham Film Club March feature.

Escher Steps at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 12th

Dom Franks Quartet at Jazz Knights in The Royal Oak, Swindon.

The Spoonful at The Bell, Bath.

Have a good week, and please listen to the podcast, it’ll be fun, pinky promise!

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 21st-27th February 2024

Hey, teacher! Leave those sausage rolls alone. Here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire, hold onto your hats, there be lots more than your average sausage roll to get through, yer filthy muckers…..

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week. Nothing ongoing on our list, so, let’s jump right into the week….

Wednesday 21st

Green Grub Club at St James, Devizes. Regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate.

Carducci Quartet at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon.

Jessica Fostekew’s Mettle at the Rondo Theatre, Bath. Amadou Diagne & Group Yakar at The Bell, Bath.

Lunchtime Recital at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Thursday 22nd

Open Mic at the Crown, Bishop’s Cannings.

Devizes Film Club at the Wharf Theatre, screening Official Competition.

Runny Snot’s Acoustic Sessions at the Neeld, Chippenham.

Fin Taylor at Swindon Arts Centre. Adam Rowe at the Wyvern Theatre. Stone Soup, Modern Evils and Phantom Droid at The Vic. Larkham & Hall at the Beehive. Oxbowlake and Jess Marie at The Tuppenny.

Avalon Comedy Network’s Pierre Novellie, Tessa Coates, Huge Davies and Jake Baker at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Paul Cowley at Chapel Arts, Bath. Cindy Stratton Band Everything Changes album launch at the Rondo Theatre.

Rob Newman at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 23rd

Devizes Ghost Walk: with John Girvan. White Horse Opera’s Top of the Ops at St Joseph’s School.

Mark Morriss plays the Pump in Trowbridge with Sound Affects in support. Sax Man ‘Shilts’ at the Civic.’

Drink and Draw at 31.Co.Work in Chippenham, opening the fringe February events across the town this weekend. Instant Wit – A quickfire comedy event at The Constitutional Club. Heat 2 of Take the Stage at the Neeld Hall.

That’ll Be The Day at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. The Retro Rock Show at Swindon Arts Centre. The Hamsters from Hell and the Vooz at The Vic. Jay Styles is Michael Jackson at The New Inn.

Shoun Shoun & Venice Treacle at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Nanny Folio Theatre and The Amazing Bubble Man at Pound Arts, Corsham.

CharmType at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Rock the Tots Family show at Rondo Theatre, Bath. The Jake Leg Jug Band at Chapel Arts.

Eddie & The Hot Rods at The Tree House in Frome. Absolute Bowie – Greatest Hits at The Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 24th

Seed Swap at St Andrew’s, Devizes. Editor’s Pick of Week: Deadlight Dance arrives in Devizes with an instore at Vinyl Realm from 11am, and they play The Southgate in the evening. The Wharf Theatre has The Lonnie Donegan Story. Kennet Gateway Club has the Rockin’ Bandits at Devizes Conservative Club.

@59 at The Lamb, Marlborough.

Wet Franc at The Pilot, Melksham. The Fabulous ’59 Ford at Melksham Rock n Roll Club

Toodles and the Hectic Pity, Charlie Gillman and Luke De-Sciscio at the Pump, Trowbridge. Adult Panto Alice in Wonderland at the Civic.

The REAL nursery rhymes and songs – toddler to KS1 at Wiltshire Swindon History Centre, Chippenham. Clare’s Circus at King Alfred Hall. Hidden Canvases – ‘Street Art and the City’ A talk by Doug Gillen at the Platinum Hall. Let’s build LEGO Chippenham! at Wiltshire Swindon History Centre, Chippenham. Rock the Tots: Baby Boogie atThe King Alfred Hall. Toddler Tango at The King Alfred Hall.

Steppin Thru’ Time – Mary Lou Revue at The Yelde Hall, Chippenham. The Rosellys at Rivo Lounge. Daft Laffs – A night of comedy greats at The King Alfred Hall. The Old Road Tavern has a Mega Fringe fest, see poster below.

Louise Farrenc plays Symphony number 3 at Corsham Town Hall. Marty’s Fake Family at The Royal Oak. Shake It Up Theatre presents The Improvised Shakespeare Show at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Holy Popes, Shin Splintz & Big Byrd at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Adriano Adewale’s Catapluf’s Musical Journey at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Molly’s Chamber at Prestbury Sports Bar, Warminster.

Science Museum: The Live Stage Show at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Straighten Out at The Vic. World Music Club at the Beehive. Danny & The Randoms at The Queen’s Tap.

Glamarama at The Woodland’s Edge. MetSon at the Swiss Chalet.

Martin Rowson’s Giving the Gift of Offence at the Rondo Theatre, Bath. Phoenix River Band at Chapel Arts, with Sophie Rose in support.

The Sunbirds at the Tree House, Frome. The Beat featuring Ranking Junior at the Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 25th

Vince Bell at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

Melksham Record Fair at the Assembly Hall.

Open Mic at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham. Shed-ache Dance Theatre at The Constitutional Club Chippenham. Elvis in Blue Hawaii at the King Alfred Hall.

Bandeoke at Prestbury Sports Club, Warminster.

Schtumm presents DG Solaris & Courting Ghosts at the Long Room in Box. 3 Daft Monkeys Duo at The Bell, Bath.

Garth Marenghi’s Incarcerat at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

CSF Pro Wrestling: Showdown at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Monday 26th

Rock the Tots Family at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Josienne Clarke at Swindon Arts Centre,

Ben Tunnicliffe’s Nowhere Ensemble at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 27th

Valuation Day with Paul Martin at The Athenaeum in Warminster.

Sophie Stockham Quartet at Jazz Knights in the Royal Oak, Swindon. The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars – Soho Songbook at the Wyvern Theatre. Connor Burns at Swindon Arts Centre.

Sam Thomas at The Bell, Bath.

Have a good week!

Valentina: Making Artistic Use of Devizes’ Shambles

It’s our lovable soup-making duo rightfully in the headlines here today. Anya and Marc of Soupchick are making good use of the unit opposite in Devizes’ Shambles, opening a tranquil art space, plus adding a further dining area….

It’ll be a lovely space to relax, lunch, and browse some art for sale; I know, I poked my nose into their grand opening this afternoon!

Valentina, they’re calling it, named in memory of Anya’s grandmother, and while for the initial month there’s a teaser of local artists exhibiting, thereafter individual artists will exhibit a show.

I do believe I’m therefore duty-bound to return with news of said individual exhibits when the time comes, and it’s nothing to do with the absolutely scrumptious soup they serve, so, don’t dare say it is!!

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 14th – 20th February 2024

Here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire, hold onto your hats, let’s lots to get through…..

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Look, if it’s all the same to you, I cannot choose an Editor’s Pick of Week; too much great stuff happening. I’m doing a Chocolate making workshop at HollyChocs in Poulshot on Friday (see here,) then off to see Gaz Brookfield at West Lavington Village Hall, (Preview) which has to be one. Saturday, if you loved Adam & the Ants, you need to get to The Vic, Swindon for Ant Trouble (previous review) and if you love hip hop get down the Pump in Trowbridge for the Scribes (preview) but saying all this, when SGO come to the Southgate, Devizes, which they are on Saturday, it’s always a pleasure (past review.) Huge dilemma, ergo, can I have five Editor’s Picks of the Week this week?!!

Ongoing until 17th February, two enlightening exhibits at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars in Wiltshire, and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed HERE.

Potterne Pantomime presents Robin Hood at the Potterne Village Hall, running until Saturday.

Wednesday 14th

Seed Bomb Making at Hillworth Park, Devizes, and the regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate.

Glad to hear The Charlton Cat at Charlton St Peter has a grand reopening on Wednesday.

Counterfeit Sixties Show at the Neeld, Chippenham. Love Stories in Chippenham, don;t know where, One Chippenham your website seems to be down!

A lunchtime recital with violinist Madeleine Mitchell at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Sterling Elliott at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Ghost The Musical at The Athenaeum, Warminster.

Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre screens Miss Potter (PG.) The Big Jam Session at The Vic.

Carrie the Musical at Rondo Theatre, Bath. Diddy Sweg at The Bell, Bath.

Thursday 15th

Open Mic nights return to The Cellar Bar, Devizes.

Seend Fawlty Players Presents Aladdin at Seend Community Centre, opening today, running up till Saturday.

Kid Carpet and the Noisy Garden Centre at Pound Arts, Corsham.

B-Sydes, Heartwork & Ed Poole at the Tuppenny, Swindon. Bob Porter Project at the Beehive. The Magic of Terry Pratchett at Swindon Arts Centre. Frankie Boyle’s show opens at the Wyvern Theatre and runs until Saturday.

Bath Bachfest opens and runs until Saturday with lots of concerts across the city.

Friday 16th

Innes Sibun Trio at The Southgate, Devizes. Disney’s Frozen Jr runs at the Wharf Theatre on Friday and Saturday.

Gaz Brookfield plays West Lavington Village Hall.

Ward Thomas at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Collateral with Zac & The New Men at The Vic. Soulphia, new name for Sophia Bovell’s Soul Rebels, plays The Cow in Swindon.

Classic Rock American Highway Show at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Bootleg Blondie at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. Liam Helm & The Hang Ups at The Tree House.

Saturday 17th

The Melksham & Devizes Primary will be in Melksham town centre from 10am-noon.

Sorrel Pitts will be signing copies of her new novel Broken Shadows at Devizes Books. Reviewed HERE. There’s a Devizes Town Hall Ghost Hunt. The Truzzy Boys are at The Three Crowns, and S’GO at The Southgate, reviewed here. Oh, and of course, it’s DOCA’s Festival of Winter Ales.

The Devil’s Prefects Album Launch at The Barge on HoneyStreet.

Operation 77 at The Lamb, Marlborough.

The Scribes Boombox reaches the Pump in Trowbridge, preview here.

The George Ward School Reunion Disco Class of the 1970s, at the Spencer Club, Melksham.

Wiltshire Police Band at St Andrew’s Church Chippenham. Valentines Concert in Chippenham, at the Neeld, perhaps? One Chippenham, your website is down.

Gwilym Simcock Trio at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Framed! And Help! I Think I’m a Nationalist! at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Fleetwood Mac & Tom Petty The Legacy Show at Swindon Arts Centre. Apache Cats at Queens Tap. 12 Bars Later at Swiss Chalet. Ant Trouble at The Vic.

Deadlight Dance & Steve Mercy are art Chapter 22 Roots & Records, Bath. Joe Wilkinson

At the Rondo Theatre. This Flight Tonight – A Tribute to Joni Mitchell at Chapel Arts.

Cover Stories at Salisbury British Legion Hall. The Wiseguys at the Rising Sun, Wimborne.

Even N Song at The Ship, Shipton Bellinger.

Judge Jules is at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Sunday 18th

Chantelle Smith is with Richard Wileman & Valve at The Vic, Swindon. Brian Conley at the Wyvern Theatre.

The Woodlanders at The Bell, Bath.

Monday 19th

Buffy Revamped at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

Swingle-Tree and Whistling Treason at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 20th

Ian Bateman Quartet plays Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon. Miles Jupp at the Wyvern Theatre.

POETIKA poetry slams at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Have a good week- that’s the last important thingy to say!!

Trending……

Emo Night: Slash Fiction and The Yacht Club Nationwide Tour Comes to Trowbridge’s Pump

Sheffield’s DIY punk queer emo five-piece, Slash Fiction will be at the Pump in Trowbridge on Wednesday 20th November as part of their nationwide tour.…

Nov 10, 2024

Ian Siegal at Long Street Blues Club

Devizes is often spoiled for choice when it comes to live music. Swindon folk ensemble SGO at the Gate would’ve been an excellent decision for…

Nov 10, 2024

“The Real Inspector Hound”, at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, November 8th 2024.

by Ian Diddamsimages by Playing Up Theatre Company When is a mousetrap not a mousetrap? When it’s written by Tom Stoppard…If you have seen “The…

Nov 10, 2024Nov 10, 2024

False Allegations Against Wiltshire Hunt Sabs About Drone Fly Zones is Unapologetically Reversed By Illegal Hunt Supporting Facebook Group

Due to my real job making regular home deliveries I get to know when folk are away on their holibobs, and when they plan on…

Nov 8, 2024Nov 8, 2024

Wiltshire Music Centre Announces New Joint Leadership

Wiltshire Music Centre is delighted to announce the new appointments of Daniel Clark as Artistic Director, and Sarah Robertson as Executive Director. Daniel and Sarah join Wiltshire Music Centre in a new co-leadership…

Nov 7, 2024

The Soul Sessions from Bristol’s Kaya Street

In 1985 Tenor Saw toasted the lyric, “another sound is dying,” in Ring the Alarm. It implied his sound was the contemporary champion, yet while…

Nov 6, 2024

El Toro Fundraiser at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham

Over to Chippenham for my dose of live music this Saturday. I didn’t see any chips nor ham, there were some pasties passed around a…

Nov 3, 2024

“The Little Mermaid” at St. Augustine’s, Trowbridge, October 30th–November 3rd, 2024.

By Mick Brianphotos by Chris Watkins Media Disney aficionados will need no introduction to “The Little Mermaid,” Disney’s 1989 film about mermaids falling in love…

Oct 31, 2024Nov 1, 2024

What’s Happening During November in Devizes?

Remember, remember, we’re moving into November; leaves, loads of ‘em! Being as we are no longer doing weekly roundups, here’s some highlights of events in…

Oct 31, 2024Oct 31, 2024

La Bruja; New Halloween Single From I See Orange

There’s a trick and a treat for Halloween from Swindon’s finest alt-rock trio I See Orange; new single, La Bruja, or The Witch translated from…

Oct 30, 2024Oct 31, 2024

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 7th -13th February 2024

Hey you lovely lot, bit warm for Feb, innit? I wouldn’t do anything too daring, like break out your mankini yet, I expect there will be at least one more wintery blast to come. Here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire……

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Wednesday 7th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

There’s a screening of The Royal Ballet Manon at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Whitney; Queen Of The Night at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Peter Knight & John Spiers at Chapel Arts, Bath. Suntou Susso at The Bell.

Thursday 8th

Instalment 6 of the Comedy Loft at the Civic, Trowbridge.

Omid Djalili at Pounds Arts is listed, but sold out, sorry.

The Kahunas at the Tuppenny, Swindon. Jon Amor Trio at the Beehive. A Memory Move at Swindon Arts Centre, Jody And The Jerms play the evening there.

Josh Pugh’s Existin’ La Vida Loca is at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 9th

All Floyd make a welcome return to The Bell on the Green, Devizes.

The Future Sound of Trowbridge #5 at the Pump, The Sunnies headline, with Ignotis and Cult Python in support.

Counterfeit Sixties Show at the Neeld Hall, Chippenham.

Syd Lawrence Orchestra: Big Band Brass at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Band of Others at the Boathouse.

Wizards of Oz and Black Rose play The Vic, Swindon. Limehouse Lizzy at Swindon Arts Centre. Rave On – The Rise Of Rock And Roll at the Wyvern Theatre.

Ed Tudor Pole at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Alfie Moore at Rondo Theatre, Bath. Martin Harley at Chapel Arts.

Andy C has sold out the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 10th

Music for Meninggitis at Seend Community Hall.

Courting Ghosts have had to cancel the gig at The Southgate, Devizes, find Grizzly Rhys Morgan there instead. Editor’s pick of the week takes us to Long Street Blues Club, where The Errol Linton Band makes a welcomed return. One of my best nights ever at Long Street last time they played, see a review Here.

The Kast Off Kinks at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Jaz Delorean at the Pump in Trowbridge, with Swingletree in support. And Sound Knowledge hosts Declan McKenna at the Civic.

Cultural Assembly; the Art of the Sustainable and A Family Business at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Purple Fish play Westbury Cons Club.

Max Output at Prestbury Sports Bar, Warminster.

The Makings of a Murderer at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Nabil Abdulrashid at Swindon Arts Centre. Nervendings, Toast and Arizona Law at The Vic. Mojo at the Swiss Chalet.

Love is Enough at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Wifi Wars at Rondo Theatre, Bath

Billy in the Lowground at The Sun Inn, Frome. Ruzz Guitar’s Blues Revue at the Cheese & Grain…oh yes!

Sunday 11th

March for Palestine at Regent Circus, Swindon at 12pm.

Jon Amor Trio & Guest at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

N’Faly Kouyatéo’s Ré-Génération at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

Coyote Country at Prestbury Sports Bar, Warminster.

Bill Smarme Rock’n’Roll Trio at the Bell, Bath.

Ukrainian National Opera – Madama Butterfly at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Monday 12th

Filskit Theatre: Wonder Gigs at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Cameron Pierre at the Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 13th

Potterne Pantomime presents Robin Hood at the Potterne Village Hall, running until Saturday.

Paper Moon Quartet plays Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon.

Maddie Storvold at the Bell, Bath.

Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

Have a good week- that’s the last important thingy to say!!

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 31st January -6th February 2024

Hey you, Feb already, here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire……

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week. Oh, and accept no substitute, this is the definitive guide to what’s really happening around these parts!!

The Importance of Being Earnest is currently running until Sunday at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes. This is sold out, I’m afraid, reviewed HERE.

Wednesday 31st

Modern & Contemporary Art from the Collection of Chippenham Museum.

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

‘Full Circle Part II’ – Phil Beer & Steve Knightley at Chapel Arts, Bath. Tight Lipped Combo at The Bell.

Truck at the Vic, Swindon, with the Belladonna Treatment and Nostomo. Viggo Venn at The Wyvern Theatre.

Thursday 1st Feb

The Tap Opening Night in Devizes.

Pound Arts, Corsham are screening Sherlock Jr. (1924) with live piano score by Meg Morley.

Cousins, Skiddy, Blair, Lynch at the Tuppenny, Swindon. Sebastian & Me, Talk in Code and Mirrored Faces feature at the Vic as part of Live Music Venues Week. Beyond The Barricade at the Wyvern Theatre.

All’s Well That Ends Well at Rondo Theatre, Bath. Nigel Wearne (AUS) at Chapel Arts, with support from Simeon Hammond Dallas.

Open Mic at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Friday 2nd

Devizes Youth Action Group has their first event at the Devizes Corn Exchange. U18’s only, all-teen bands, Shox, Steatopygous, and BellaDonna play, with DJ Flam. Well done for organising, we fully support this initiative, and our own youngest reporter, Flo, will be there to give us the lowdown on it. Karaoke starts up at the Exchange nightclub below for the so-called grownups(!), with Karl Maggs on the wheels of steel. This will be a regular thing, the first Friday of each month.

Also on upcoming bands, check the first heat of Take The Stage at Chippenham’s Neeld Hall, only costs a fiver entry.

Travis Waltons at the Pump, Trowbridge, with Marty’s Fake Family and The Earth & Me.

One Chord Wonders at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon.

IVW 2024 Double Bill: Nuala Honan & Stevie Toddler at Pound Arts, Corsham.

All Ears Avow, Death is a Girl, Fluff and Ritual Divide all play the The Vic, Swindon. There’s a Swindon Old Town Comedy Club at Christchurch, Old Town. Calling Planet Earth, Duran Duran tribute at the Wyvern Theatre, Dire Streets at Swindon Arts Centre.

And the In-Cider Festival begins at Weston-Super-Mare! Weston-Super-Mare, Eddie!

Saturday 3rd

The Thomas Atlas Trio takes over from the postponed LeBurn Maddox at The Southgate, Devizes. A darn good replacement, expect some amazing blues. Our trusty duo, Funked up will be at The Three Crowns, guaranteed good night at either. DJ Stevie Mc is in the mix at the Exchange.

Kieran doesn’t know it yet, we’ll see if he reads this religiously, but I’m invited to the Pump by frontman Jamie, so for this reason and for many others, this gets my Editor’s Pick of Week!

The Worried Men play the Pump, Trowbridge, with FuTuRe PlaN in support; anyone going up from Devizes? I needs me a lift!!

From the European Union Chamber Orchestra, Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon presents Yuzhang Li.

Still Marillion at the Vic, Swindon. Apache Cats the Rat Trap. The Thinking Drinkers at Swindon Arts Centre, and The ELO Show at the Wyvern Theatre.

It’s Duckfest at the Duck in Laverstock, a Salisbury Live Beggar’s Bash thingy.

Phoebe Troup is at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Dylan tribute The Bob Villains at Tree House Frome Retro Electro at the Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 4th

All-family bike ride, Kidical Mass, from Hillworth Park, Devizes. Lewis Clark at The Southgate from 5pm.

Chasing Dolls, Lucky Number Seven, Better Heaven, Liddington Hill, and Oui Legionarries at The Vic, Swindon. Whitney Queen of the Night at the Wyvern Theatre. Ania Magliano at Swindon Arts Centre.

Monday 5th

Open Mic at the Lamb, Marlborough.

An Evening With Jasper Fforde at Swindon Arts Centre.

Tuesday 6th

Daniel Newberry Trio for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon. An Evening With Jeff Stelling at the Wyvern Theatre.

The Rob Auton Show at Rondo Theatre, Bath.

fOR WEEKLY RECURRING EVENTS CLICK HERE!

Have a good week- that’s the last important thingy to say!!

Trending……

Chippenham Musicians Gather For El Toro Fundraising Gig at the Old Tavern

The end of autumn shows no signs of preventing there being lots of events locally. We move into November still with a packed event calendar,…

Oct 27, 2024

Should we be Concerned Over Wiltshire Council’s Refusal to Engage with Melksham News?

The simple answer is yes, very concerned. Following the publication of an article in Melksham News’s last issue questioning the council’s public notice policy, Wiltshire…

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Sign of Life; The New Single From George Wilding

Am I going to tell you about this new George Wilding tune, or not? Huh? Oh, sorry mate, what was that again?! Sounds like George…

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Pumpkins are No Treat for Woodland Wildlife

Dumping pumpkins in the woods is bad for wildlife says Forestry England. As millions of pumpkins hit supermarket shelves and make their way to gardens,…

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“Cosi Fan Tutte” at Easterton Village Hall, October 11th 2024.

by Ian Diddamsphotos by Gail Foster Devizes based White Horse Opera has a fine and longstanding tradition of a touring opera – a show taken…

Oct 20, 2024Oct 20, 2024

New Single: Phil Cooper Still Holding His Breath

If Phil Cooper’s 2018 “Thoughts and Observations,” was one of the first albums we ever reviewed here on Devizine, it’s been a while since I’ve…

Oct 19, 2024

YEA Devizes: DOCA New Youth Project

Devizes Outdoor Celebratory Arts announced their upcoming project, YEA Devizes today. Made possible by a grant from National Grid Electricity Transmission’s Community Grant Programme, the…

Oct 18, 2024

Alberta Cross Frontman Joins Line Up for Frome Festival Fundraising Gig

Alberta Cross, along with the up-and-coming local bands Something Moves and BroccoliBoy, will perform at a charity gig on Saturday 30th November at 23 Bath…

Oct 18, 2024Oct 18, 2024

The Mist; New Single from Meg

Chippenham’s young folk singer-songwriter Meg, or M3G if you want to get numeric, will release her 6th single The Mist on Friday 18th October, and…

Oct 17, 2024

“Pericles” at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, October 21st–26th 2024.

by Ian Diddamsimages by Chris Watkins Media, Jeni Meade. It would be fair to say that once William Shakespeare found or invented a plot device,…

Oct 16, 2024Oct 18, 2024

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 24th- 30th January 2024

Hey frozen duckling, here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire……

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Ongoing until 17th February, two enlightening exhibits at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars in Wiltshire, and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed Here.

Wednesday 24th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Big Jam session at the Vic in Swindon. Rhod Gilbert & The Giant Grapefruit at The Wyvern Theatre.

Apricity Theatre Turns Ten The Rondo, Bath. John E Vistic’s Country Club at The Bell, Bath.

Screening of The Old Oak at the Athenaeum in Warminster.

Thursday 25th

Runny Snotts Acoustic Sessions at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Mark Simmons: Quip of the Mark at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Ellis Evason at the Tuppenny, Swindon, Adult Panto – Beauty And The Big Beast at The Wyvern Theatre.

Andrew Bird’s tour Taken Seriously is at The Rondo, Bath. Gordon Giltrap at Chapel Arts.

The Farewell Tour – An Evening With Sir Geoff Hurst at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 26th

Lucky Number Seven are the Pump, Trowbridge, with LXRDVIRS and Notre Dame of Tokyo. John Law’s Re-Creations at the Civic.

BlueSoul at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon.

Avalon Comedy Network: Stuart Laws, Lucy Pearman, Heidi Regan & Josh Weller at Pound Arts, Corsham.

This is Your (Improvised) Musical at The Rondo, Bath. Reggae vibes at St James Wine Vaults with the Biggle Sound System. Australia’s Ernest Aines at Chapel Arts.

King Awesome at The Vic, Swindon, Texas Tick Fever at the Beehive. Stranger Sings at The Wyvern Theatre.

Saturday 27th

Phereakers at The Southgate, Devizes, Don’t Frett at The Three Crowns.

Josh Kumra at the Bear, Marlborough. Broken Dolls at the Lamb.

Bo Walton Band at Melksham Rock n Roll Club.

A Big shout out to organiser John McConnachie, as Editor’s Pick of the Week is at Calne Liberal Club for the annual 7 Bands in 7 Hours. The Killertones, Real Cheesemakers, Mike & the Misfits, People Like Us, 6 O’clock Circus, Homer and the Chaos Brothers join forces for this fundraiser. This year it’s supporting two young children Hartley, diagnosed with Down’s Syndrome and Fletcher who suffers bowel disorder. The mini-festival comes with a suggested £5 donation, and starts at 4pm. If you can’t make it you can still donate here.

Marty’s Fake Family at Gloucester Club, Trowbridge. Samantics with Devil’s Doorbell at The Pump.

Junkyard Dogs are at The Consti Club in Chippenham.

Shakespeare’s Fool at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Band of Others at Warminster Conservative Club.

Stranger Sings at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Papa Shango at The Vic with Here Comes The Crows in support.

Ukrainian Benefit Evening at The Bell, Bath. Ania Magliano’s I Can’t Believe You’ve Done This at The Rondo.

Snuff at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury. Wilton Live all dayer at Wilton Community Hall, see poster. Sam Fraser is at Follow Comedy at Qudos.

Hugh Cornwell and special guests The Primitives at the Cheese & Grain, Frome, Bruce Juice, Bruce Springsteen Tribute at The Tree House.

Sunday 28th

Vince Bell at The Southgate, Devizes.

Screening of The Royal Opera’s Rusalka at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

South West Hotel and Careful Spider play a Schtumm at the Long Rooms in Box. Andy Burden Band at The Bell, Bath.

An Evening with Glenn Hoddle at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Monday 29th

Is the opening night of The Importance of being Earnest at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes. This is running until Feb 3rd, and we will bring you a review of it before it opens; watch this space!

Rock The Tots – ‘The 1990s’ at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Most Haunted Live at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Brooks Williams & Aaron Catlow at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 30th

Stop Making Sense at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Tom Clarke-Hill Quartet plays Jazz Knights The Royal Oak, Swindon. I See Orange at the Vic. Most Haunted Live at The Wyvern Theatre.

Pete Morton at The Bell, Bath.

And that’s your lot! Let me know if we missed anything, we can list events for free, but a chocolate muffin works better to persuade me! Lots to look forward to this month, I’ll lob a few posters below, but keep your best eye on the……

Event Calendar!!

Trending….

Watermark: Fulltone Orchestra Brings Enya’s Iconic Album to Life…

Our very own illustrious orchestra, The Fulltone Orchestra, are staging live performances of Enya’s 1988 breakthrough album, Watermark in Basingstoke, Bath and Cheltenham later this…

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Rachel Sinnetta & Rosie Jay at the Crown, Bishops Cannings

Must confess it felt somewhat odd to return to The Crown in Bishops Cannings for my weekly ration of live music. The only pub in…

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Jodie as Adele Tribute Night Fundraising for Devizes School Student to Work in Ecuador

Wiltshire Adele tribute Jodie Evans is all set to ignite the stage on Friday 18th October, at the Bear Hotel’s Cellar Bar in Devizes, with…

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The Skimmity Hitchers V Monkey Bizzle: The East/West Somerset Agricultural Hip Hop Turf War!

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Funked Up Disco Metal; There’s Always Something Happening in Devizes!

Despite summer being a fleeting memory, and time to batten down the hatches for our major events, even if there’s not ‘much’ going on in…

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Ducks Review: Shoots Juice Cafe, Devizes

Oct 3, 2024

Billy in the Lowground are Halfway Up The T-Shirt

It’s been on my to-do list far too long, overdue to tick it off. Foot-tappin’ West Country folk ensemble, Billy in the Lowground released this…

Oct 2, 2024Oct 2, 2024

Harder to Breathe; New Single from Talk in Code

It’s been a fantastic summer for Wiltshire’s indie-pop favourites Talk in Code. I think I’ve caught them live at least four times, and only once…

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Chatting with Josh Oldfield on Blues, Inspiration, and Drums in Suitcases!

I was chatting to Josh Oldfield last week, a Devizes singer-songwriter I believe we’ll be hearing a lot more of. Though this interview was pending…

Oct 1, 2024

“Design for Living” at the Rondo Theatre October 2nd–5th 2024.

by Ian Diddamsimages by Josie Mae-Ross Noel Coward is probably best known for “Blithe Spirit” but he in fact wrote sixty-five stage plays over a…

Oct 1, 2024Oct 1, 2024

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 17th -23rd January 2024

V busy week ahead, too busy to type the word “very,” (though I just did type the word “very,”) despite the cold spell, nothings gonna stop us now, reminding me somewhat of Ollie & Jerry’s theme “Breakin’, there’s no stopping us.”

Not that it takes me much to be reminded of Ollie & Jerry – I think about them all the time, I wonder where they are and what they’re…..okay, let’s push on, we don’t need you to be like Turbo, no one to dance with other than a broom, (youngsters pipe down and Google it!) here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire……

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Artist Clifton Powell with Eric Walrond portrait at Wiltshire Museum

Wednesday 17th

The Melksham & Devizes Primary have a new year meet at the Kings Arms, Melksham; we recently did an interview with them, a really important issue, check it out here.

The regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Lunchtime Recital Series at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, with Babatunde Aleshe in the evening.

Opening night of The Wind in the Willows at The Rondo, Bath, running until Sunday the 21st. Meanwhile, Starlings play The Bell in Bath.

British Lion are at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Thursday 18th

M3g plays The Tuppenny, Swindon, Zamba Lando at The Beehive, John Otway at The Vic, a memory sing at Swindon Arts Centre, and Get It On at The Wyvern Theatre.

Friday 19th

Borrowed Atlas plays the Pump, Trowbridge, with Ravetank in support.

Cara Dillon is at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Forbidden Nights at Melksham Assembly Hall, ladies!

Stompers at The Boat House, Bradford-on-Avon.

Littlemen at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Dark Prophecy at The Vic, Swindon, UK Pink Floyd Experience at The Wyvern Theatre.

Saturday 20th

Day course: Wood Engraving with Robin Mackenzie at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes.

An album launch gig for Cracked Machine at the Southgate, Devizes, with Clock Radio in support. Siren at The Three Crowns. Real Music are at the Bear, with a Soul, Motown Disco.

Open Mic at The Barge Honeystreet.

Chippenham Record Fair, at The Citadel on Bath Road; free entry.

Editor’s Pick of the Week is Bradford Roots Festival at the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon; I’ve been saving myself since new year for this! Incredible line-up, all day Saturday and Sunday, preview here, hope to see you there?

Cara Dillon is at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Ian Diddams and Wendy Dopheide take Happy Jack to the Athenaeum, Warminster for a two night run, Saturday and Sunday; here’s a review from when this show was at the Wharf in Devizes.

The Korgis – Time Machine at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Apache Cats at The New Inn, Swindon, The Rolling Clones at The Vic. Abba Forever at The Wyvern Theatre, and an RPA Golden Ticket Show at Swindon Arts Centre.

Sunday 21st

Manos Puestas at The Southgate, Devizes.

Bradford Roots Festival continues.

Sing-A-Long-A Matilda The Musical (PG) at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Gordie Tentrees & Jaxon Haldane at The Bell, Bath.

Monday 22nd

Giovanni Pernice at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

The Swing Vote at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 23rd

Vasilis Xenopoulos & Tom Berge Trio for the regular Jazz Knights The Royal Oak, Swindon.

Giovanni Pernice at The Wyvern Theatre.

And that’s your lot, let me know what we missed, we can list events for free, but a chocolate muffin works better to persuade me! Lots to look forward to this month, I’ll lob a few posters below, but keep your best eye on the……Event Calendar!! Also note, we have a new page for weekly events including clubs and activities, here: it’s new so we need to list some more, tell us what you know!

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Wiltshire Council to Trial Street Art Wall in Melksham

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Richard Wileman on the Forked Road

Fashionably late for the party, apologies, the fellow I’m not sure if he minds me calling “the Mike Oldfield of Swindon,” though it’s meant as a high compliment, Richard Wileman, released his fourth solo album, yesterday (Friday 12th Jan,) The Forked Road. I’ve been lost in its gorgeous blend of prog-rock experimentation and acoustic folk goodness for a while now, perhaps too much to get around to telling you about it!

It is more usual for Wileman to separate his two defining subgenres into composing under the pseudonym Karda Estra, for the experimentally ambient prog-rock, those lush Pink Flyodesque vibes of deep instrumental, and using his own name for the more acoustic folk moments. Yet since Led Zeppelin’s debut in 1969, the two have been married, and here, Richard combines them to great effect. Indeed, it is the former style which draws you deep undercover as a way of a dawning, The Last Book of English Magic is four minutes of lush and gentle instrumental introduction, easing you into this album, the most diverse I’ve heard of Richard’s, playing it out with a reprise, the First Book of….

He takes vocals on the second airbourne tune, Butterflies, a floaty beauty you’d know already if you had just bought our compilation album for Julia’s House, as it was contributed to that project. Wileman describes the album as a “prog-folk horror concept album, rooted in his home county and charting the encounter of a comet with Earth, resulting in the undead rising and converging on The Ridgeway, all bookended by the last and first books of English magic.” If author Philip Carr-Gomm transports us across England’s vast scholaric of occult arts and explores its history of magical lore and practice, Wileman captures this in music as wonderfully as Zeppelin did with the fictional magic of Tolkien; only this Shire is Wiltshire.

The title track again find us on the experimental instrumental path again, and it’s enchantingly cobblestone, teetering with whimsical harps, from Chantelle Smith, like sorcery evaporating into mist, only to be followed by the summit of this adventure, The Children of the Sun, a duet with Amy Fry, which is blissfully sublime; dreamy is the benchmark here.

Just like the Horses of the Gods album, We Wish You Health, if you’re not whisked into a timeless magical realm within the mystics of your own county by now, seek medical attention! Avenue & Circle is more harp and melodica driftiness, like wandering into the crystal shop in Avebury. Finally, the scene is set, and Richard brings back Amy Fry to vocalise the diegesis unfolding. Comet Vs the Earth is Wileman’s Forever Autumn, if Justin Hayward was Jeff Wayne’s scene setter in his musical version of War of the Worlds, and what can be more of a Wiltshire related comparison than that?!

Harpist Chantelle Smith duets with Richard on the next tune, Old Bones, delicately resurrecting, never does this venture into anything horrifically jumpy, rather flows gently throughout, even if things are becoming spooky in the next instrumental piece, Spectres of the Ridgeway, which in its very name suggests the narrative of the concept.

Alongside guest vocalist, Amy Fry, who also adds saxophone, and harpist Chantelle, and his daughter Sienna, who captured sound recordings of Avebury, Richard’s multi-instrumental skills are at the forefront, taking on guitars, vocals, bass, keyboards, percussion bouzouki, Appalachian dulcimer, accordion, melodica, and finalises his projects with artwork.

We’re nine tracks into this storyline, concluding with a dramatic ambient piece. Wileman’s faint lamentation leaves you wondering if the Inevitable Beast is metaphoric and you’ve missed a reality within the plot, and it’s followed by the aforementioned reprise. Combined this album is awash with the timelessness of prog-rock concept albums, of Bowie, and The Who, yet dreamy as Pink Floyd, all this I expected, but in listening to the past two sections, of Richard’s acoustic solo work largely with Amy Fry, and the more experimental angle of Karda Estra, I’ve longed for the two to embrace, and here it is, and it’s all rather lovely, wrapped in mystical narrative; top marks!

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Lego Club at Devizes Library Announced

Everything is looking awesome at Devizes Library as they announce the Lego Club for six to twelve year olds will begin on Saturday 27th January!

With bookable sessions each Saturday from the 27th, at 2-3.30pm, places will be limited so either call in or phone on 01380 826190 to book your place.

In addition, the library will be running a drop in session on Thursdays from 3.30-6pm from the 1st February. There’s no need to book for this session.

My only issue with this is that sessions are suitable for 6-12 years….bang goes my spaceship project! I love this idea, as I loved Lego, still do! Well done, and thank you, Devizes Library.

Devizine Review of 2023

Here we are again with another year under our belts and me trying to best sum it up without restraint; I reserve my right to free speech, spliced with a slither of satire….

2023 was, in a word, wet. ITV reports “summer 2023 was unusually wet, with 11% more rainfall than average, but it was also recorded as being the eighth warmest on record….” I’m not sure I remember that last bit, just the perpetual drizzle, between the three months of April showers and the floods of Autumn! It was this, and my failure to find a suitable Peppa Pig costume preventing the promised second fundraising milk round; hopefully this summer, coupled with a free live music event, watch this muddy puddle!

Freedom of speech is another sour point. I’ve tried to focus on entertainment and arts, and keep Devizine away from politics as much as possible towards the latter half of the year, it’s all too depressing. Yet it seems standing against prejudices and genocide is frowned upon by a few vocal sorts, who deliberately intended to degrade Devizine without the foggiest notion of what we’re about, for which, laughably, had the opposite effect; we reached record breaking stats again this year topping last year’s hits by 35% and reaching beyond the 150K mark. This is great, though points don’t make prizes in this game, it means we’re continuing to reach out to more people.

So let’s not dwell on the negatives, only to add the epicentre of my frustrations doesn’t derive from any particular councillors, as some might think. Certainly, in reporting some blackmarks on local issues and politics, one name in particular appears to recur, but the satire I write is never deliberately directed at anyone personally, only their actions, or inactions on the subject in hand. If this upsets you, try to act more positively. Example; if you publish a post on your own local Facebook group asking for event listings, some people will instinctively suggest Devizine is a possible place to look, being as that’s the aim of what we do here. To ban them for life for merely uttering the word Devizine, which is what happened and was completely out of my control, is petty and deliberately undermining all my efforts and the efforts of our contributors who work hard for nothing to make Devizine what it is; and you don’t expect this behaviour from a town councillor to frustrate me a smidgen?!

I laugh off such minor issues, rather my annoyances derive at the middle of this year when I happened to be updating our event listings and came across a Katie Hopkins show at Meca in Swindon. Make no mistake, this bitter and twisted celebrity is outward racist, homophobic and spreads her hate through national hollering. I posted on our Facebook page, we would not list such an event as it goes against our principles, not really thinking of the consequences from some who enjoy being xenophobic.

Rather than Newquest picking up on the work we do to promote local venues, artists and businesses, or our fundraising attempts, it decides on highlighting us for clickbait by publishing an article in the Swindon Adver slating us for sticking to our morals. The effect of this was hoards of haters, who hadn’t even heard of us until this moment, flocked to our social media to sound their disapproval. I was inundated with all manner of threats by those who assumed, rather than us simply refusing to list the event, I was part of some imaginary gang defying their freedom of speech to spout racism and homophobia; you can’t make it up, and in turn, is part of the reason we stand on certain principles and moral codes while, it seems, the mainstream media are hell bent on rocking the boat and creating a hateful ethos in this once great, now damned country.

Ah, bollocks to those noisy twats in the minority, in wailing my frustrations a multitude commented how they love what we do, and their compliments far outreach the sort of oddball nutjob who would pay their hard-earned cash on a ticket to see a karen bath up racism in Swindon!

So, let’s go month by month, looking over 2023, shall we? Trying to maintain positivity throughout…..I said “try!”

January

We started 2023 much like this one, with a review of the past year; I know, I’m like a stuck record! January saw us preview Ladies Day at the Wharf Theatre, Seize the Day appearing at the Corn Exchange for a Wiltshire Climate Alliance event, the FullTone Festival, Pure Grit’s Devizes Strongest contest, former Devizes resident, the Brave New Broken Hearts Club gig at St Johns, The Exchange nightclub hosting open mic nights, and Bradford Roots Festival at the Wiltshire Music Centre, of which I attended, cherished and reviewed.

Concrete Prairie @ Bradford Roots Festival

One of the funniest interviews I’ve done was with Marlbrough’s Pants, due to play the final gig for landmark landlord Vyv and Jackie at the Lamb, which happened in Jan, and was hilarious.

Venturing out in January isn’t my cuppa though, truth be told. I broke hibernation to catch Adam Woodhouse at The Three Crowns, and Bill Green gave us a review of Devizes School’s performance of We Will Rock You. Other than this staying in listening to new music is favoured, and we reviewed a new single of the Lost Trades and added their second album announcement, On The Wayside EP by Viduals, and Marvin B Naylor and Rebsie Fairholm’s album Psychedelicat.

On ranting, yes, I told on the billions of untaxed investment under our very feet at Gastard’s wine cellars, and the Old Wharf Café not meeting its potential by becoming a meeting room, and, of course, how Devizes Town Councillors lied about bird flu on Crammer, because they did, though seemed to successfully brush it under the carpet, but the high hitter, strangely, was one I wrote on my phone purely for fun, Ten Top Tips for Driving in Devizes. A popular topic, it seems, coming in at the second highest hitter this year.

February

Swindon folk ensemble SGO released a live album from The Southgate, and Devil’s Doorbell did one too, live from the Pump. We also reviewed the studio album Petrichor by The Lost Trades, and Painting With Sound, Will Lawton & The Alchemist’s new EP. This was followed by my first trip to the Pump, to see Will Lawton, with the Lost Trades in support, double-whammy!

I reported that Jon Amor Trio’s Residency at The Southgate shows no signs of letting up for 2023, and it remains the case to this day. Another unforgettable gig was Adam & His Ants tribute Ant Trouble at the Vic, that was something else.

Jon Amor Trio at The Southgate with Thomas Atlas

Andy gave us a review of the comedy night at The Piggy Bank, Calne, and after previewing the Brave New Broken Hearts Club gig at St Johns being unable to attend it, we found the wonderful writer Helen Edwards, who would continue to write reviews for us throughout the year. Thank you Andy, Helen, and Bill, from last month!

We previewed the Wharf Theatre’s Liz Sharman returning with another Shakespeare masterpiece, Measure for Measure, and a night of nostalgia and karaoke at The Castle Inn for the My Dad’s Festival organisers. I also attempted to introduce our regular song of the week piece, songs coming from Deadlight Dance, Atari Pilot, Sienna Wileman and Ajay Srivastav, the latter of whom I was later delighted to hear was coming to Devizes Arts Festival.

If the Crammer was a sour point last month, in Feb it got a whole lot worse as another swan died, this time in a road accident. We highlighted the campaign group asking the Devizes Town Council for a safety sign to warn drivers to slow down past the Crammer, they sadly rejected it, putting the aesthetic look of the crammer, already awash with pointless signage, above the wildlife, and risk to drivers.

But outside Devizes matters are serious. Yeah, we covered The Great Pothole Debacle for kicks, but the ongoing hunting scandal was paramount. One town councillor banning me from yet another Facebook group for merely suggesting the Wiltshire Police officer going for a promotion in the rural crime unit when she was an active member of a hunting gang was a tad conflicting, especially being in the same month the Avon Vale Hunt was suspended from the British Hounds Sports Association for posting a video of them killing a fox.

Besides this, Wiltshire Police maintained the officer was not acting illegally, instead tried to turn focus on to youth crime, with the PCC and Wiltshire Council staging a drop-in event in Devizes which targeted only youths at a time youths would be at college or school so unable to defend themselves. Understandably we were critical to all this, cos someone has to be! For light in Feb, I took some old photos of Devizes and added pretend modern comments as if they were posted on social media today, to lighten the overall gloomy happenings in local politics.

March

Well, warming up a tad now, March was my 50th birthday and so I had a little do in the Three Crowns, which if I could remember any of it I would never have forgotten it in my life! I mean, if a jobs worth doing I say, we had Ben Borrill kick us off, followed by Vince Bell, and then Deadlight Dance, and then Talk in Code stepped in, and I only wanted a support act, not four main acts before the main act! I’m forever grateful to all of them, and to top it all off Ruzz Guitar Trio played us out, and thus, I was half a century old and feeling it!

I felt I shouldn’t really review my own birthday party on Devizine, if I could recall it anyway! But we did preview the Open Day at The Wharf Theatre, and Waking Back to Happiness, and Andy reviewed Measure For Measure, all at the Wharf Theatre. I also found time to preview Devizes Arts Festival, Potterne Festival, and the first Devizes Pride.

Andy reviewed Thomas Atlas at Long Street Blues Club, with Ben Borrill in support. I took to an amazing Devizes Concert for Opendoors with Will Blake, PSG Choir Chloe Jordan and Andrew Hurst, and a huge congrats to Dora and the PSG for organising that. I also made it down to The Southgate for Concrete Prairie, and Helen reviewed the Poetika Open Mic Night at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Songs of the Week came from Talk in Code, Lewis McKale, Lucky Number Seven and Sara Vian. And we celebrated International Women’s Day by highlighting our favourite local female musicians.

We announced Bradford-on-Avon raising £250,000 for a new skatepark, we chatted to Catherine Read, the Green Party Parliamentary candidate for Devizes, and Guardian Candidate for the Devizes East byelection, Vanessa Tanner, who won despite pathetic attempts to derail her campaign by the opposition.

Meanwhile, Guardian Jonathan Hunter hailed Wiltshire Council had “a complete disregard for the residents of Devizes,” the Crammer Working Party asking Devizes Town Council to endorse a most dubious approach to future management of the Crammer, Wiltshire Police praised protesters against the fox hunting officer at Devizes Police HQ like it was ever going to any but peaceful, we took a stark look at Devizes Food Bank with Alex Montegriffo, where I got told off for speaking my mind about the Conservative approach to food banks, but they do seem to wear the idea they’ve increased the usage of them tenfold as a badge of honour, do they not?!

But the real highlight and top hitter of March was when a resident of Seend noticed a naked bloke rolling in her neighbours muck heap at night!

April

We previewed Chippenham artist Si Griffiths’ Forbidden Carnival Gallery. Girls Like That, and The Railway Children at Devizes’ Wharf Theatre. The Henry Normal and Nigel Planer tour coming to Devizes, The Vintage Bazaar in Devizes,

Swindon Shuffle, Thirty Years of Dreadzone before playing the Cheese and Grain, King Alfred’s Tower Charity Abseil, Devizes Street Festival, A Beginner’s Introduction to Oils in All Cannings with Arts Together, a hometown gig for Nothing Rhymes with Orange, and all the local Coronation Celebrations.

Ben Niamor reported on Carsick, NRWO and Meg at Pump. Helen covered a Bournemouth Writing Festival. Andy provided a review of The Billy Walton Band at Long Street Blues Club. I managed to attend Nothing Rhymes with Orange and support acts in Lavington, one important one will be Dauntsys own Paradigm and I’ll explain why later. Oh, and Jon Amor’s Southgate residency with Leburn Maddox, managed this too.

Song of the Week included Ålesund and Nothing Rhymes With Orange, also reviewed Across the Water EP by Paul Lappin, 41 Fords album Not Dead Yet, Frankisoul’s EP on Fire, and Age of the Liar by The Burner Band.

Now, see what I was saying earlier about being better behaved on social and political matters as the year went on? Hardly anything throughout April, save an article titled Gorillas and the Pissed in Bishops Cannings! But when a minority of disgruntled villagers falsely accuse a pub of stealing a gorilla statue from Scotland in order to sabotage their business, well, you cannot expect me not to jump at the opportunity to stir the pot!

And, strangely I never did get a response from the local newspaper when our protocol April Fools joke was headlined Gazette & Herald to Buy Out Devizine, but there you go, I thought it was a good idea.

May

Previews for May included Devizes Arts Festival, Female of the Species, Devizes Scooter Rally and John Watterson keeping the Music of Jake Thackray alive in Pewsey.

We had Carmela’s Wonder Wheels Challenge, and our writer Helen Edwards read her poem on BBC Upload. Helen wrote a breathtaking review of Lou Cox’s poignant comedy Having a Baby and the Shit They Don’t Tell You at the Wharf, and I covered the Railway Children.

Ian Diddams reviewed Waiting for Godot at The Mission Theatre, Bath, and The Four Sopranos at Devizes Town Hall.

Ben wrote on Alex Roberts and Fly Yeti Fly at The Barge, Honeystreet, Vince Bell at the Southgate, and Kyla Brox at Long Street Blues Club.

Si’s Forbidden Carnival Gallery in Chippenham opened with the exhibit Hail The Curious, which I attended the opening of, and I reviewed Devizes Street Festival in two daily parts. What a fantastic year it was.

I also took a trip to Frome to see Big Country and Spear of Destiny at the Cheese and Grain. Loved the venue and the vibe of the town, and ended up on a pub crawl with a friend in the know.

Song of the Weeks came from Canute’s Plastic Army, and Snazzback, but the idea of the feature is starting to wane. We fondly reviewed Deadlight Dance’s debut album Innocent Beginnings, and Nothing Rhymes With Orange released a new single Butterflies.

Still well behaved on the news front, congratulating Vanessa Tanner as the new town councillor, but I did publish a piece called Your Place, or Mine? Devizes Town Council Squabbles Over Meeting Venue!

The top hitting article of the year came in May, How to Tell if Your Parents Were Ravers! It was a fun piece to write, and its universal appeal is likely the reason for its success.

June

In June my daughter sneakily managed to blag a week’s work experience with me, thinking she’d be able to stay in her PJs, but I sent her out to Chippenham to interview young upcoming folk singer-songwriter Meg, and, apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, she did a marvellous job.

As the mainstream local media seemed intent on sensationalising troubles with youth for clickbait, I refused to accept it was nothing more than an issue with a minority of youths. Nothing new, it’s always been this way. Jess’s interview with Meg got the ball rolling in which we would not only cover youth doing good work, bands and artists and others, but also encourage youth to write and photograph them too. I really believe this was the most positive thing to come out of 2023 for Devizine, and to think it stemmed from this negative trend of others publicising this exaggerated notion there’s a youth crime crisis.

In other areas, we previewed the Wharf Theatre’s upcoming season, Keevil Roots Festival, the fantastic CrownFest, CSF Wrestling, The Lavington Community Choir’s Pied Piper, Swindin Shuffle and My Dad’s Bigger Than Your Dad Festival. Ian Diddams previewed Shakespeare’s Henry VI at The Rondo Theatre, Bath. And I did the Devizes Beer & Cider Festival’s music lineup, though by the time the event came around the organisers sadly seemed to neglect our free promotion and gave us a cold shoulder, not sure what we did to upset them and hope to rebuild on this in the future.

The third highest hitting article of the year was the opening of Tonka Bean in Devizes, proving once again food and drink related stories are popular, still not enough outlets contact us for publicity.

Also we covered Talk In Code’s race to Glastonbury Pilton Party, local artist Clifton Powell commissioned by King Charles for Windrush portrait, and a major step towards revitalising Devizes Assize Court as the new home of Wiltshire Museum. But in all, June was about event reviews.

Devizes Doorbell @ Devizes Sustainable Fair

Starter for ten, we had Devizes Sustainable Fair, 41 Fords at The Southgate, Humdinger at the Three Crowns, Watson and Brown at the Wharf Theatre, which Ian kindly covered, and I sent Helen to the film premiere of Translations in Melksham.

But real group collaboration covered the entire Devizes Arts Festival, Helen on Carrie Etter’s Poetry Workshop, Ben took Elles Bailey and Will Kirk, Ian took The Sisters and The Brothers at the British Lion, and I managed three, Ajay Srivastav, Malavita and Noble Jacks.

It really was a packed program so thanks to everyone for contributing reviews, but no more than Andy, who virtually squatted the festival, providing words on Christian Garrick & The Budapest Café Orchestra, Hawes & Catlow, Chris Ingham Trio, Clive Anderson, Lois Pryce, Marcus Brigstocke, Lucy Stevens, Aglica Trio, Onarole Theatre’s Jesus My Boy, Texas Tick Fever, Sir Willard White, Sue Stockdale, and Tango Calor.

Songs of The Week from Beskar which featured vocals from local singer Chrissy aka One Trick Pony, and Ruzz Guitar Blues Revue. I reviewed albums by Danni W, and Liddington Hill.

We had some fun with my Top Tips to Survive a Muddy Glastonbury Festival, and another called Wiltshire Council Replicate Table Mountain in Devizes Pothole!

But poor WC, when Devizes New Chair to Area Board of Wiltshire Council was announced I got my knickers in nearly as much twist as Danny Kruger’s did over an Affordable Housing Development in Devizes, but I admit I jumped the gun on that one, but eat humble pie, na, not me. There’s too much other terrible rightwingy crap happening to focus on minor errors, like the counter protest to a drag queen reading stories at Swindon library.

July

Previewed Box Rocks, Embrace All, Swindon’s festival for disabled, and Matchbox Mutiny, Ben Borrill & Pat Ward’s new duo debut at The Gate, but previews are so springtime, reviews are what was happening in July, and lots of them! Devizes Scooter Rally, CrownFest, Devizes Pride, Mantonfest, and Karen Cannings guest reviewed Lavington Community Choirs The Pied Piper of Hamelin.

Two art exhibits reviewed, Anna Dillon’s Wessex Airscapes at Wiltshire Museum and Alexander Kai’s Figures in Focus at St Mary’s Devizes.

New tunes from Subject A and Beskar featuring Huntr/s, an album by Onika Venus. But on the subject of youth participation, July was exactly what we wanted. The Pump called for young talent with its Future Sound of Trowbridge project, we had a new tune from Nothing Rhymes With Orange, and I reviewed their gig at the Barge, but couldn’t make the one at Devizes Corn Exchange. This is where the drummer of Paradigm, Florence Lee came in, remember I said we’d mention them again? Well, Flo reviewed the gig and Kiesha Films supplied photography. This is precisely what we’re looking for, youth reviewing and capturing their own generation’s gigs.

Flo did such a grand job I sent her on two historic bear hunts, to report on a Sound Knowledge gig in Marlborough with William The Conqueror and Michael Rosen Hunt at The Cheese & Grain, thank you Florence and Kiesha. Other youth interactions came with The Wharf Theatre’s youth production of Girls Like That, a feature on RAE, and a review of Becca Maule’s Teenage Things EP.

My only rant was on the subject of the overworked bus driver who fell asleep at the wheel.

August

Soupchick launching a falafel stall, Wharf Writers’ Group first Podcast, Where’s the Cat? Chloe Jordan playing the Southgate, the return of the Imberbus, and My Dad’s Festival raising £9,000 for Prospect Hospice were hot topics in August.

The Fulltone Festival was covered with words by Jemma herself, and double-reviewed by Helen and myself. I also managed HoneyFest, Meg at The Neeld in Chippenham, Beyond Chippenham Streets exhibit, ran a general piece on open mic nights, and went salsa dancing with Devizes Salsa; Eso!

Songs of the Week from Paul Lappin and Ruzz Guitar’s Blues Revue. New singles from The Scribes and Atari Pilot, and Sally Dobson’s new project Foxbaroque. Albums came in from Dylan Smith, The Radio Makers and Junkyard Dogs.

I managed one rant on the New Devizes-Melksham Constituency, taking a critical look at Michelle Donelan; harmless banter, you understand?

September

Devizes Food & Drink Festival in September, Ian reviewed Di, Viv & Rose at Wharf Theatre. I ran previews of Omega Nebula at the Muck & Dunder, Swindon Rocks for Children In Need, The Big Sleep Out In aid of Devizes Opendoors, and produced a podcast episode too!

We reported on The Future Smiths, Devizes Parish Wins Prestigious Award for Future Plans, and Watching the Winter Solstice at Stonehenge or Avebury: How to Prepare was an advertorial piece I confess, but while I try not to do these, it paid for this year’s website fees with some pennies left to put on a gig with.

Songs of The Week from Meg, and Canute’s Plastic Army. Beyond Reverence, Deadlight Dance’s debut album was reviewed.

I don’t usually report crime, but the headline Epic Fail, Devizes Burglar Steals Doormat was too funny not to run! Herein lies my frustrations though when I reported on Swindon’s MECA defending its right to promote racism, and I stand by my guns whatever the outcome, because we really don’t need this behaviour on the hospitality industry already at its knees.

October

A Typical Saturday of Live Music in Devizes is a Beautiful Thing! Was the headline, again me trotting around three pubs in town to include all gigs in one night! Then there was Seend’s own Live Aid, The Female of the Species, what a night.

Retro Relics Games Cafe opened in Lavington, 4Youth: New Street-Based Youth Project for Devizes begun, Devizes Library’s hopes to start a Lego Club, New Organ Arrives in Devizes Like “A Phoenix Rising from the Ashes,” Devizes Teenagers Give Up Spare Time to Help Community Gardening Project, and Devizes Town Council Pledge on Single-Use Plastics.

I previewed Shakespeare Live’s Autumn tour, World War One play The Last Post at The Wharf Theatre, Calne Music & Arts Festival Stand-Up Comedy Night, a Palestine Solidarity March in Swindon, took two trips to the Pump, one for Amelia Coburn, Ruby Darbyshire and M3G, the second for Professor Elemental and Devil’s Doorbell. Andy provided words on the White Horse Opera’s Gala Concert and Blood Brothers at Long Street Blues Club, and I managed to get down there one night too, to see the Billy Walton Band.

Mick Brian reviewed Happy Jack at The Wharf Theatre, NervEndings launched a scathing attack on the music industry’s chancers and charlatans, Nothing Rhymes With Orange frontman Elijah released a solo tune I paid a visit to the The Healthy Life Company, and we had an interview with Steve Vick, having renewed their sponsorship of Wiltshire’s Youth Orchestras at Wiltshire Music Centre.

For a giggle I answered Wiltshire Council’s Public Transport Survey, and I wrote a Halloween gag about Eddie Cochran’s ghost in Chippenham!

November

Mick Jogger’s Devizes gig got a preview, 12 Bars Later popped into The Badger Set,

Ruby Darbyshire played Glasgow’s Barrowlands with The Charlatans, and Gail and I met Henry Normal and Nigel Planer at Devizes Town Hall; heavy!

Chicago Blues and Russ Ballard gigs at Long Street Blues Club were covered by Andy, and James Hollingsworth at The Southgate too. Ian did TITICO’s The Pirates of Penzance at the Corn Exchange.

Jess Self and cast of Jack & The Beanstalk at the Wharf

I did Jack & The Beanstalk at the Wharf Theatre, and loved it. I skanked in the Muck with Omega Nebula, DOCA Winter Festival and lantern parade, and attended the duo exhibits at Wiltshire Museum opening event.

We spoke highly of the Wiltshire Music Centre, and took a look at what was happening over Christmas in Devizes. Wicked Weather Watch launched a campaign to empower youth on climate action.

Winter Festival Devizes by Simon Folkard

We reviewed new tunes from The Scribes’ Jonny Steele, and the Dirty Smooth, and an album by the Two Man Travelling Medicine Show.

December

Previewed the Bradford on Avon Green Man Festival, reviewed Barrelhouse at the Southgate and Illingworth at the Three Crowns, and a most memorable gig at the Wiltshire Music Centre with Kasai Masai.

We had new singles from M3G, Billy in the Lowground, and the Viduals,and an album review of Cephid.

We’re continuing to highlight local festivals for 2024, and yes, Pewsey took a bit of criticism for the Tedworth Hunt parading without permission this Boxing Day. But, I did go all out on a satirical rant about the roadworks situation in Devizes, and got on my high horse with Councillor Iain Wallis, which some people thought was a little OTT.

What I didn’t mention was it was through personal frustration the piece was reflected. Having given myself over forty extra minutes to cross town to get my autistic son to his disabilities football session at Wiltshire FA in Green Lane, we were still fifteen minutes late; punctuality key to his meltdown in the car. For Iain to then take to his social media group defending the appalling coordination of Wiltshire Council and turning comments off, which could have been fair suggestions as to how to solve the issue of future roadworks planning, was counterproductive, so he got a little bashing for his actions, as is all what he and anyone else here has ever got here, criticism for their actions or inactions on the subject we’re covering. It was not, and has never been a personal attack, much as he claims it is. But I do take all the opinions cast under my wing and the result was me getting rather frustrated and annoyed with it all. I believe if the actions of anyone in a position of power, such as an MP or councillor are dubious they deserve to be called out for it, and besides, it is only ever with a shrewd slice of satire which we do it with, not to be taken so seriously.

I threw my teddies from the pram, yes, and suggested giving Devizine up. I slept on it while a load of comments praising what we do here flooded our Facebook page, and this gave me a fresh perspective, running a quick photo article joking that,of course, I wouldn’t give it up, only to receive comments from someone who was previous supportive of Devizine stating I duped them into thinking I would quit; you cannot win! I can only assure you, the feeling was real, all these nasty folk who seem to want to derail us, mock us for standing up for what is right, they do get to me, and do make me feel like quitting, that much is true and the joke was it was all a joke, because it wasn’t. My god, why am I pouring my heart out over this silliness; if you like Devizine read it, if you don’t like Devizine, don’t read it, but don’t parade around slagging us off like you’re the victim, which I took the test of then and there myself and it does inflate the ego; simples!!

I wish you all a happy new year and sincerely hope we don’t need to go down this avenue again, I hope we can provide a platform to promote talented locals, venues, the arts and all, but tell me I cannot spice it up with a little controversial satire, what’s the point in me doing it I ask you?! 2023 has been a great year, with lots going on, lots to report and so many people I’m grateful for, for their contributions, input, advice and support, for they far outnumber the oddballs who seem to think we’re stifling creativity or backing some imaginary concept like cancel culture. The simple fact is, no other local media is highlighting and promoting local arts, it depends on the individual social media presence, and somewhere to combine and collate it all, I believe, is a positive thing. Rant over……

……Happy new year one and all!

Bumper Christmas Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 20th – 31st December 2023

Stop for the Noddy Holder moment, it’s Christmas! Our weekly roundup of what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire is a bumper edition this week, taking us right up to New Year’s Eve, cos I’ll be a busy as Santa on a mission this yule, and only get the standard two days off work to be with the fam, which the equivalent to you posh lot is a year off to find yourself in Goa!

Please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in regularly. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead…..to 2024!

One other really important thing before we get going, we need donations to fund this, so, if you can this Christmas, please donate a little stocking filler to keep us going; awl, thank you, For info on how, see HERE. Please and thank you…

Ongoing: Two exhibits at Wiltshire Museum in Devizes: Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed Here.

The Kenavon Venture Santa Cruise at Devizes Wharf continues running until 23rd December.

Wednesday 20th

I assume the regular Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes is on as normal.

Panto at the Civic Trowbridge with Goldilocks & the Three Bears, two shows 4pm and 6pm.

Gav Cross: After Supper Ghost Stories at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Craig Crofton Quartet at the Bell, Bath.

Thursday 21st

Playtime! Christmas Special: A Winter’s Tail and Father Christmas Storytelling at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The Hammervilles at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Claire Martin and the Jim Mullen Trio at the Civic, Trowbridge.

Matt Owens & the DVP at the Tuppenny, Swindon.

Sladest at the Tree House, Frome has sold out.

Friday 22nd

Christmas & New Year Meals at The Memorial Pavilion in Seend with Chef Eric Lepine Seend runs until 29th December, with a Christmas Dinner special on the 24th.

Funked Up Christmas Party at the Pelican, Devizes, One Trick Pony fundraiser at the Southgate.

The Parson’s Nose in Melksham has Plan of Action.

Winter Concert at St Michael’s Church in Axford by Music for 1-4 voices, and Piano, with Emilia Lederleitnerova-Spriggs, Alice Simmons, Brian Parsons, Gilbert Simmons. A cappella 4 part carols, seasonal songs both old and new, festive piano duets and a few jazzy Christmas favourites. And some warming winter refreshment!

Hooch at The Coopers Arms, Pewsey.

Christmas Sing-a-Long at the Civic, Trowbridge.

Peloton are at The Vic, Swindon.

Karport Collective at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon. Far Cue at The Three Horseshoes.

The P’hogues at the Tree House, Frome has sold out.

Saturday 23rd

Illingworth at the Three Crowns, Devizes. Barrelhouse at The Southgate.

Apache Cats at The Lamb, Marlborough.

Frenzy at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Drama Tots Christmas Special at Kington Langley Village Hall.

Filskit Theatre: Breaking The Ice at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The Fuzz at The New Inn, Swindon. Shepherd’s Pie’s Xmas Rock-Off The Vic.

The Sweet play the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Sunday 24th

Swing Into Christmas with Terry Franks at the Crown, Bishops Cannings.

Sing-a-Long with Jim at the Beehive, Swindon.

Leon Hunt, Jason Titley, Gina Griffin at the Bell, Bath.

Monday 25th

I haven’t got anything for Monday….oh, hold on, Noddy, come in!! I wish you all a very merry Christmas, Brussel sprouts all round!

Tuesday 26th

Xmas Rave at 23 Bath Street, Frome.

Wednesday 27th

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes, possible, not sure.

The Shudders at the Beehive, Swindon.

K’Chevere at the Bell, Bath.

Thursday 28th

Experimental Blues Orchestra at the Beehive, Swindon

Friday 29th

Jon Amor Trio Christmas Special at The Southgate, Devizes. Mick Jogger & The Stones Experience at The Corn Exchange, Devizes.

SexJazz at the Beehive, Swindon. Rotten Aces at the Vic.

Saturday 30th

The Acrustic Badger Band & The I’s at The Southgate, Devizes. Sound Hog Disco, Karaoke at the Three Crowns.

Pop-Punk Disaster at The Vic, Swindon

Sunday 31st

Right, here we go: eyes down for a full house, it’s New Year’s Eve. I’m not going to type New Years Eve for every entry, so take it as red, it’s New Years Eve, okay?! New Years Eve parties at:

Devizes Scooter Club at The Cavalier, Devizes.

The Reason NYE Party at Seend Community Hall.

Reggae Party with Razah I-Fi at the Royal Oak, Marlborough.

Siren at The Consti Club, Chippenham.

End of Story at The Talbot, Calne.

Blue Soul at the Wiltshire Yeoman, Trowbridge. Train to Skaville at Westwood Social Club.

Party Night at the Civic, Trowbridge.

Parties at The Tuppenny, Swindon, the Beehive, and The New Inn. Rave Against the Regime plays one at The Vic.

Junkyard Dogs are the Winterbourne Arms in Winterbourne Dauntsey.

One Chord Wonders at The Sun, Frome.

Phew, I’m sure there’s more, do let me know and hopefully I’ll get time to add them. Obviously, because this is a bumper fortnight edition, I’m sure lots more will be added, so do keep your eye on the Event Calendar, as this might not be edited, cheers.

Have a great Christmas, and New Year, one and all!

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The Late but Great Devizes Christmas Shopping Guide!

Something I was trying to skive off doing this year, being time consuming, is a local Christmas shopping piece, but then this terrible roadworks situation occurred, and not knowing when it would end I invited local businesses with websites and/or delivery options to send us their links. Now we can happily declare DEVIZES IS OPEN, the roadworks greatly reduced, and congestion is back to its average levels, which I dare say could do with improvements, but it’s not so bad, and another story for another time!

DEVIZES IS OPEN!
Devizine!

Here’s a rundown of those shops and small businesses who dared opt for the challenge of being presented on this controversial website, (you know, you love it really, as long as you don’t take it too seriously!) and their links for home delivery or website ordering, just in case you’re thinking “I’m all in my cosy jimmy jams now and I’m staying that way till new year!”

Who knows, perhaps there’s gift ideas here, for the guys still running around like headless chickens. I know all you lovely ladies have it sorted, probably do your Christmas shopping in May; philistines! Where’s the fun/anguish/trauma in being so proactive?! Wait till Christmas eve, guys, it’s great for your stamina and blood sugar levels.

Before we begin, don’t forget the best place to start your journey into local shopping is the wonderful Devizes Retailers and Independents site at indevizes.org.uk where you’ll find much more info, even a map; the map I’d imagine is a real asset for the headless chicken running guys, save them from accidentally landing themselves in the pub!

Some listed here didn’t comment on the Facebook post, but I love them too much to miss them out, some have shops, some are online businesses, some have valid Christmas ideas, others I suspect are just in it for a mention, but we love them all the same!! Listed alphabetically for no other reason than to prove I know my a,b,c, here we go!

Beeze’s

Ah, handmade gifts a plenty, and the toy shop, Little Beeze’s next door too! They can deliver as far as Wroughton, you can pay them a visit in The Ginnel, Devizes….lovely place!

Find them online here.

Dollies Dimples

Handmade in town, vintage inspired dollies in tins, dinosaurs in tins, stationery sets and lots of other goodies, Dollies Dimples products are soooo cute they make me go all squishy, and I’m a grown man, (apparently!) Dear Santa, please can you…..

Website only, find here.

The Giving Tree

Ah, the Giving Tree, fifteen years strong in the Little Brittox, wonderful gifts, lovely selection, and they can deliver within Devizes. Do you guys remember our 2020 Christmas Shopping challenge, when you found me a Galileo thermometer? See, Devizes, got it all, even a Galileo thermometer!

standing gonk stood in front of a Christmas tree and wrapped presents

Find their website here.

Gourmet Brownie Kitchen

The way to man’s heart, or anyone’s with brownies this tasty! You’ve been in there, I know you have, probably have a loyalty card! We love the award-winning Gourmet Brownie Kitchen, we love them there brownies!

Find them online here.

Hannah Cantellow Studio

Okay, if I give my better half a tea-towel for Christmas……yeah, I think you know where I’m going to end up, move aside Rover, I’m pitching up in your kennel tonight! But you have to see local printmaker Hannah Cantellow’s definite Devizes tea-towel designs, they are rather special. If I had one of these I’d want to keep it, and never wash the dishes with it at all….hey, now there’s an idea!!

Looking to open a printmaking studio near Devizes next year, Hannah Cantellow plans to offer Studio Memberships, Presses & Equipment and Courses & Workshops.

Devizes Treasures Tea Towel ~ Screen printed on 100% natural cotton. Available in a range of gorgeous colours to compliment your kitchen. This pattern design is inspired by the original limited edition linocut ‘Devizes Treasures’. The print celebrates my favourite places and symbols in my home town Devizes in Wiltshire, including the Millennium White Horse, Roundway Hill, Caen Hill Locks, Devizes Castle and many more… These tea towels have a beautiful quality and will make a gorgeous addition to your home!

Find online here.

The Healthy Life

With a wonderful Christmas gift shop upstairs, this longstanding eco-friendly shop in the Little Brittox, Devizes, always wins our heart. We’ve mentioned them recently, They also have a delivery and online service too.

Find them online here.

Hollychocs

Okay, so our very own Wilma Wonka, Holly didn’t respond to our callout, too busy to be scrolling Facebook, I guess, but we cannot have a local shopping article without our mentioning Poulshot’s award-winning chocolatier; we would love you Holly if you didn’t make chocolates, we’re smitten that you do! You can find Hollychocs at the Poulshot Lodge, or go to her website, here.

Kittags

Made it Poulshot, Kittags supply personalised luggage tags. They claim they are “loved by the military, blue light services and many a parent who has suffered lost school bags!” Mate, I’ve been there; tempted to attach some to the actual child too sometimes!

Website only, find here.

Pins & Needles

Local designer and owner of Pins & Needles Vixter Woolista has a fabulous range of accessible crochet and knit kits, patterns and gorgeous hand-dyed yarns. On her website, you’ll find special deals and clearance bargains from Pins & Needles, that are no longer available on general sale in the bricks & mortar shop…. and get knitting; I could do with a new Christmas cardy!

Find online here.

Pins & Needles (Devizes) – a little shop with a big heart and winner of the 2020 British Knitting Awards for best yarn shop in the south west, has a HUGE amount of stock, and a knowledgeable, enthusiastic team.

Roses Ironmongers

Easy to spot when they put a lawnmower on the balcony over the shop! Roses is Devizes’ historic ironmongers, and you can buy literally everything in there; just ask. But they do also have an online presence too, which you can find here.

Shire Garden Machines

Sister to Roses the Ironmongers, Shire Garden Machines have everything to keep your garden perfect all year around, from mowers and tractors to leaf blowers, chainsaws and hedge-trimmers to fuel and spare parts for your garden equipment. They also service all your garden equipment. And there it is, get your hubby a chainsaw for Christmas, he’ll love you forever, it’s a bloke thing!

Find them at Roses Yard, Gains Lane, or online here

Stove Hunters

Okay, look, I’m grateful if I get a Lynx Deodorant set for Christmas, but a restored bespoke French stove is pushing my luck. Maybe not a Christmas shopping item, unless you’re either exceptionally showy, or want to treat yourself, which I think is a necessity too, but we love these classic stoves from the Stove Hunters, who are similar to the Bounty Hunters, just less coconutty!

You can find them online here, or visit them at The Old Granary on Roundway Hill Business Park, Hopton Road, Devizes. And if you do buy one, can I come over for a baked potato? Yes, baked beans AND cheese on it, I’m not a savage!

Sun Flower Macramé

Knot a lot of people know this, (see what I did there?) Catherine, from Potterne, knots macramé home décor, and also has kits available for you to try your hand at macramé too! Look at this splendid Christmas tree, makes a great decoration, I’m not one for neon flashing lights visible from the moon, these are far nicer; great for your nan too!

Website only, from here.

Vinyl Realm

The way to any music lover’s heart, vinyl. The toys I got for Christmas when I was young, (and believe it or not, I was, once) are but a fleeting memory, whereas my first long-player, Absolutely by Madness, I still have. Even if you’ve not got a record player, they do these too, and repairs, all the kit you need, expert advise and stacks of records.

I’ll be honest, when I handbraked turned my milkfloat into the snowy St John’s Street many moons ago, and popped into meet Pete and Jackie a day before they opened, I fell in love with what they were doing, but, being what I deemed, niche, I admit, I gave the shop a time limit. But today, still going strong, moved to a larger location on Northgate Street, you can’t miss it, all yellowly façade, Vinyl Realm, you rock!

Find them online here.

That’s all happy shoppers, have a lovely time shopping, I’ll be snoring the theme to Airwolf in the corner! Oh, and if I don’t get the opportunity again, have a merry Christmas and Happy New Year, but I’m sure I will….

Bradford on Avon Green Man Festival

Featured Image: Colin Rayner Photography

If I’ve recently been singing the praises of arts diversity in Bradford-on-Avon, centred around the Wiltshire Music Centre and not yet touched upon the various other venues such as the Three Horseshoes and Boathouse, here’s something to wrap it up into one neat package, the Bradford on Avon Green Man Festival……

A free one-dayer, the festival is organised by the town council, a vibrant, family-friendly community gathering featuring traditional dance, music, song, and folklore which runs throughout the town centre on Saturday 11 May 2024, from 9.30am to 5pm.

They hail “there’s something for everyone,” and that story checks out; with over forty dance groups, comprising three-hundred and twenty dancers and musicians, the Bradford on Avon Green Man Festival ranges from Morris dancing to European styles, and encourages you to have a go!

Homegrown Performance troupe, Ganderflankers presents Jack and Jill in the Green, a whimsical journey of a 10ft tall Jack and Jill with their bands and fantasy beasts, visits twelve locations across the town.

Wiltshire Music Centre stage hosts a stage at the Holy Trinity Church, and the festival launch party will be held at the Centre on Friday 10th May, ticketed, it features folk-rock legends Lindisfarne. A new addition for 2024 will be The Three Horseshoes hosting a blues stage, featuring the best local blues musicians. There’s also the Folk Club Stage in St Margaret’s Hall. The festival also boasts music sessions in town centre pubs, a regularly featured samba band at the Tithe Barn in the afternoon, a Mummers’ play performed around town, and buskers too.

Pagan Arts & Crafts market with about a dozen stalls selling everything for the closet pagan, shops’ window dressing, and an Artisan Market with thirty or so local makers. With a children’s fun zone with fairground rides, magical storytelling and face painters, The Community Hub for local groups and clubs to showcase their activities, and yet to be confirmed Saturday night party to polish it off, looks like the party is in Bradford-on-Avon in May…..twist my arm why don’t you!!

More Information about Bradford on Avon Green Man Festival HERE

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 29th November – 5th December 2023

To look around our beautiful landscapes you’d be understanding of visitors who assume it’s a barren outback with nothing going on, but we know different; look and thee shall find. We’ve a packed week ahead as we move into December, the fun never stops! Here’s what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this week…..

Please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in regularly. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead.

One other really important thing before we get going, the thing everyone seems to brazenly browse past pretending it didn’t apply to them, we need donations to fund this, so, if you can, please donate a little something to keep us going; awl, thank you. If you love it, don’t lose it, like Bez on a nineties dance floor. For info on how, see HERE. Please and thank you…

Ongoing: Two exhibits at Wiltshire Museum in Devizes: Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed Here.

Artist Clifton Powell with his portrait of Eric Walrond, on display at Wiltshire Museum

Wednesday 29th

NHS Blood Donation Clinic at The Corn Exchange in Devizes, between 1:30 and 7pm. The regular acoustic jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Roy Chubby Brown is at The Civic, Trowbridge.

Keith James’ Every Human Heart at Swindon Arts Centre.

Piano Phase Project Sound Meditation at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Ushti Baba at The Bell, Bath. Opening at The Rondo Theatre, A Streetcar Named Desire, which runs until Saturday 2nd.

Far From Saints at the Cheese & Grain, Frome is now sold out.

Thursday 30th

Open Mic at The Crown, Aldbourne.

Wiltshire Air Ambulance Christmas Market, Trowbridge. Open Mic at Stallards.

Adele Cliff at Chippenham Comedy Club at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

Christmas Memories at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Jam Night at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon.

FitkinWall: Harpland at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Grubb & Eedens at The Tuppenny, Swindon.

Chris Difford’s ‘Not Only But Also’ at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Voodoo Room at the Tree House, Frome.

Friday 1st December

Friday sees a Christmas market and Santa’s grotto at The Pelican Inn, Devizes, from 4pm to 9.

It’s the opening night of Jack & The Beanstalk at the Wharf Theatre, running until 9th Dec. You’re going to be hard pushed to grab a seat for this now, but do try Devizes Books or join the online waiting list on their website. We look forward to reviewing this on Thursday.

Vamos is at the Old Road Tavern, Chippenham, bringing you the fantastic Will Lawton & The Alchemists with Mac-Lloyd in support, this will be one cool gig, highly recommended; please pay what you can for it. Living Spit: A Christmas Carol at the Neeld Hall.

Tribute to Dire Straits, DS:UK at the Melksham Assembly Hall.

Operation 77 at The Talbot, Calne.

My Fair Lady opens at the Civic in Trowbridge, running up to Sunday.

I Fagiolini Angels & Demons at the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. The brilliant Monkey Bizzle at the Three Horseshoes with Cara Means Friend.

Chris Difford is at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Alice Armstrong is a Chapel Arts, Bath.

Ed Tudor Pole at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Jon Amor Trio at the Beehive, Swindon.

Ozric Tentacles & Gong at the Cheese & Grain, Frome, now sold out, but The Specialised are at The Tree House.

Saturday 2nd

Calne River Warriors’ Wreath-Making Workshop at the Pocket Park, Calne.

Christmas Market at Avebury Barn.

Devizes LunaBarge at The Southgate Inn, Devizes. The Unpredictables at the Three Crowns, and the Moonrakers 80s Disco at The Moonrakers, Devizes.

Marlborough Concert Orchestra at St Marys, Marlborough.

Splat the Rat at The Barge Inn, HoneyStreet.

Christmas Light Switch on in Melksham with Plan of Action, on at 5:30pm.

Gary Stringer and Ella Clayton at The Pump in Trowbridge are sold out, and find the 41 Fords at Stallards.

The Dynamos at the Consti Club in Chippenham.

The Reason at Prestbury Sports Bar, Westbury.

FitkinWall: Harpland at Pound Arts, Corsham.

For Editor’s Pick of the Week we head over to the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon for some African drumming with Kasai Masai in concert, and a drumming workshop beforehand.

Hell Death Fury at the Three Horseshoes in Bradford-on-Avon, with support.

Oye Santana at Chapel Arts, Bath, and Junction 18 have a 100th gig fundraiser for Bath Foodbank at St Mark’s Church.

Panto time at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, Snow White runs until 31st December. Charlie Baker at Swindon Arts Centre. One Trick Combo at The Woodlands Edge. Operation 77 at The New Inn.

Salisbury Music Awards at The Winchester Gate.

The Lanky Divas have an album launch at The Sun, Frome. Billy In The Lowground at The Tree House. The Counterfeit Beatles at the Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 3rd

Chirton School has a wreath making workshop.

The monthly residency of the Jon Amor Trio at The Southgate, Devizes. The Groom Family’s Houseparty at Devizes Town Hall.

Christmas Market at Avebury Barn.

Charity Christmas Fair & Santa’s Grotto at The New Inn, Winterbourne Monkton.

Christmas Fayre & Santa’s Grotto at Chippenham Sports Club.

Really Big Really Clever plays the Pump, Trowbridge with NervEndings in support.

Budapest Cafe Orchestra at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Mike Hoddinott Trio at The Three Horseshoes.

My Darling Clementine at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Monday 4th

Mark Watson at Swindon Arts Centre.

Tuesday 5th

Callum Smith organ Trio, for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon

And that’s all we’ve got so far, but more stuff is added all the time, so keep a beady eye on

THE EVENT CALENDAR!!!! And PLAN AHEAD…..

Get your tinsel out and have a great week!

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Canute’s Plastic Army; Hollow Children of Men

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Aug 1, 2024

Homestead; New Festival Coming to the South West from Husband and Wife team

A brand new festival will be coming to the South West countryside in 2025, from a husband and wife team with years of experience across…

Aug 1, 2024

Sing Another Love Song with Rosie Jay

Second impressive single from young Salisbury singer-songwriter Rosie Jay is released today. Sing Another Love Song; a sound of the summer….. Her debut breakup track…

Aug 1, 2024Aug 1, 2024

Devizes Food & Drink Festival 2024 Program Announced

We love Devizes, we love food, and we love drink too! What’s not to like when the Devizes Food & Drink Festival launch, (or could…

Aug 1, 2024Aug 1, 2024

Cotswold Water Park to be Renamed

Here’s a prime example as to why I could never be a councillor….. Cotswold District Council will vote on changing the name of Cotswold Water…

Aug 1, 2024

Wiltshire Council Leader Weeps Over The Scrapping of the Stonehenge Tunnel!

Tory tears welled at County Hall this week, when Cllr Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council threw his teddies from his pram over the Government’s…

Jul 31, 2024Jul 31, 2024

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 31st July – 6th August 2024

We’re into August already; Christmas before you know it, so you better get outside and taste the sun while it lasts…. Here’s what we’ve found…

Jul 30, 2024Jul 31, 2024

Devizes Scooter Rally Rules, OK?!

If it’s been a fantastic weekend on Devizes Green with the orchestral Full-Tone Festival, further out of town scooterists, mods, skins and anyone else with…

Jul 30, 2024Jul 30, 2024

My Complaint About Devizes’ Full-Tone Festival!

Images Used With Permission of Gail Foster Chief organiser of the Full-Tone Festival, Jemma Brown has always been high on my list of local folk of…

Jul 30, 2024

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 15th – 21st November 2023

Everything to do in Wiltshire this coming week, right in one handy listing; you might need wellies, or a small sailing vessel!

Okay, please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in regularly. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead.

Ongoing: Dark, the latest exhibit at the Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham runs until 26th November.

Two exhibits at Wiltshire Museum in Devizes: Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed Here.

Wednesday 15th

Devizes Flower Club presents A Classic Christmas, a festive floral evening at the Corn Exchange, Devizes. The regular Acoustic Jam at the Southgate.

Fashion Reimagined at The Parade Cinema, Marlborough.

Marmen Quartet at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

James Morton’s Groove Den at The Bell, Bath. Caught n the Hop begins at The Rondo Theatre, running up to Saturday.

A Lunchtime Recital with pianist Helen Farrar at Pound Arts, Corsham, followed by Gerard Logan’s Hauntings.

Uncanny: I Know What I Saw at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Thursday 16th

Open Mic night at the Crown, Bishops Cannings, with Jamie R Hawkins, Will Foulstone and Chrissy Chapman.

Jol Rose & Friends at The Tuppenny, Swindon.

Elf Lyons’ Raven at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Tubular Bells Plus extracts from Dark Side of the Moon for the Moog Synthesizer 50th Anniversaries at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Massive Wagons at the Cheese & Grain.

Friday 17th

Running from today until Sunday, Devizes Eisteddfod. James Hollingsworth’s Pink Floyd Night at The Southgate, Devizes.

Folk Club at the Barge, HoneyStreet. Open Mic at The Parade Cinema, Marlborough. Josh Kumra at the Bear.

Rock for Heroes at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Christmas Market at the Civic, Trowbridge. Trowbridge Lantern Parade & Light Switch on.

Siren plays The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon. Really Good Band at the Three Horseshoes.

Tom Robinson’s Up Close and Personal at Pound Arts has sold out.

25 year reunion gig for Roundabout at the Castle, Swindon, Editor’s Pick of the Week.

Tailgunner, Heathen Kings and Ambrius at Underground, Shades of Seattle at The Vic, Funkinsteins at the Beehive, Swindon. Phoney Towers at Swindon Arts Centre, Genesis Connected at the Wyvern.

The Roy Orbison Experience at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Dr Beatroot at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Splintering Heart plays Marillion at the Tree House, Frome, while The Orb are at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 18th

Saturday sees a Christmas Country Fair at Market Lavington Community Hall.

Window Wanderland begins across Devizes. The Russ Ballard Band at Long Street Blues Club, Devizes, Junkyard Dogs at The Southgate, and Drew Bryant at The Three Crowns.

@59 are at the Barge, HoneyStreet. Broken Dolls at the Lamb, Marlborough.

Sonic Alert at The Pilot, Melksham.

Kevin Brown’s Shackdusters at the Pump, Trowbridge.

Josie Field at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham. Get Carter atThe Consti Club.

Wonk Unit, 2 Sick Monkeys and Anyminuteno at The Vic, Swindon. Rave Against The Regime at The New Inn. Everybody Sing’s One Day More at the Wyvern, and Chloe Petts – If You Can’t Say Anything Nice at Swindon Arts Centre.

Eco Fest at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, with Saltlines Raynor and Gigspanner. Birdman Cult, Charleston Lane, and Future Plan at the Three Horseshoes.

Takeshi Matsumoto: Club Origami at Pound Arts, Corsham, and Goldust Productions: The Mayhem Cabaret 2023.

The Kate Bush Songbook at Chapel Arts, Bath

Brian Bilston at the Cheese & Grain in Frome, plus From The Jam’s ‘All Mod Cons’ 45th Anniversary Tour, and Supalung at the Tree House.

Sunday 19th

Sunflower Events; Christmas Fair & Craft Market at the Corn Exchange, Devizes.

Wiltshire Soul & Blues Club Monthly Jam in Lacock.

Courting Ghosts at Stallards, Trowbridge.

Kentwood Christmas Cracker at the Wyvern, Swindon. The Bootleg Shadows at Swindon Arts Centre. Strays Without Borders fundraiser at the Vic, and David Celia at the Beehive.

Trowbridge Symphony Orchestra at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Dry White Bones at the Three Horseshoes.

Rev. James and the Swingtown Cowboys at The Bell, Bath.

100 Years of Silents: Salomé at Pound Arts, Corsham.

An acoustic set from Snuff at The Tree House, Frome.

Monday 20th

NHS Blood Donation Clinic at the Corn Exchange, Devizes.

Rock The Tots: Numbers at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Leburnicus at The Bell, Bath.

Sally-Anne Hayward’s Egg Shortage at Swindon Arts Centre.

Tuesday 21st

Exhibition On Screen: Klimt And The Kiss (Encore Screening) at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The Glen Manby Quartet at Jazz Knights in the Royal Oak, Swindon.

Annie Gardiner at The Bell, Bath.

That’s all we’ve got so far, but more stuff is added all the time, so keep a beady eye on

THE EVENT CALENDAR!!!!

Have a great week!

Trending…..

The Rob Lear Band at The Piggy Bank, Calne July 23rd 2024

by Ian Diddamsphotos by Ian Diddams I’ve seen Rob Lear and his band on multiple occasions in the past decade, every one of them a…

Jul 26, 2024Jul 26, 2024

Can You Volunteer to Help Devizes Opendoors?

I dropped into the new(ish) home of Devizes Opendoors today to meet Mitch, poke my nose in, chat about the work they do and how…

Jul 25, 2024

The Next Season at the Wharf Theatre

Featured image by Chris Watkins Autumn, finish your ice lolly, as we need to to start thinking about it! Our wonderful, one and only, theatre in…

Jul 23, 2024

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 24th-30th July 2024

Jam-packed July! If there’s always lots to do throughout the year, July especially so! Here’s what we’ve found in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week….…

Jul 23, 2024Jul 23, 2024

“My Dad’s Bigger Than Your Dad” Festival, Old Town Gardens, Swindon July 20th 2024

by Ian and Paul Diddamsphotos by Ian Diddams and MDBTYD Festival The 4th iteration of MDBTYD Festival was held on Saturday at its home of…

Jul 23, 2024Jul 23, 2024

Talk in Code & Laissez Faire at The Southgate, Devizes

Gallivanting through festival season omits crucial visits to my local watering hole; I’ve missed it sooo much, and now feel thoroughly refreshed… with a hint…

Jul 21, 2024

FullTone Festival and Scooter Rally; Big Weekend in Devizes

Next weekend (26th-28th July) is a biggie in our humble town, there’s the FullTone Festival on the Green, and Devizes Scooter Club revs up for…

Jul 18, 2024

Devizes Arts Organisation Launches Fundraiser to Save Future Community Events

Featured Image by Simon Folkard Following the announcement earlier this year about the cancellation of the Devizes International Street Festival due the loss of Arts…

Jul 18, 2024Jul 18, 2024

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 17th- July 2024

Jam-packed July! If there’s always lots to do throughout the year, July especially so! Here’s what we’ve found in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming…

Jul 16, 2024

A Perfect Picnic in the Park

A perfect sunny(ish) Sunday at Hillworth Park in Devizes, if not to overcome one’s fear of public speaking while dressed in a giraffe onesie and…

Jul 15, 2024Jul 15, 2024

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 1st – 7th November 2023

Boo! We’ve got everything to do in Wiltshire this coming week, right in one handy listing, as usual…..

Okay my little pumpkins, please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in regularly. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead.

Ongoing, Dark is the latest exhibit at the Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham, running until 24th November.

Wednesday 1st

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Lunchtime Recital at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, followed by Jimeoin: The Craic.

Track Dogs at Chapel Arts is sold out, but the Gin Bowlers play the Bell in Bath, and opening night of Sheila’s Island at the Rondo Theatre, running until Saturday 4th.

Thursday 2nd

Rich Hall’s Shot from Cannons at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Sayers & English Weather at The Tuppenny in Swindon, Geoffrey Wansell’s Monsters In Our Midsts at Swindon Arts Centre, and Shock Horror at the Wyvern.

Martin Simpson – A Master of His Art at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Friday 3rd

Calne Bonfire & Fireworks at Beversbrook.

Marlborough Fireworks at Marlborough Town FC.

Devizes LGBTQ+ Drag Queen Bingo Disco @at The Wyvern Club, Devizes. Poet Henry Normal and very special guest Nigel Planer at Devizes Corn Exchange. Susan Santos & Alastair Greene at Long Street Blues Club.

Gaz Brookfield is at the Pump, Trowbridge, sold out I’m afraid. Meg and Oxygen Thief in support there.

2 Tone All Ska at The Consti Club, Chippenham.

Rosie Hood Band at Pound Arts, Corsham, and Mitchell and Vincent at Fovant Village Hall.

The Terrace Soul Weekender at Alexandra House in Swindon. Get Carter at The Vic.

Hejira is celebrating the music of Joni Mittchell at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Karport Collective are at The Boathouse, and Severed Illusions, Peruvian Necktie, Dystopian Dread & Accelerated Mutation all at The Three Horseshoes.

Ignotis, Feedback & Nothing Rhymes With Orange play Burdall’s Yard, Bath.

The Hot Damn! at The Tree House, Frome, The Blues Others – A Tribute to the Blues Brothers at The Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 4th

Curious Kids: Victorian Homes at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. There’s the Swap Shop at St James from 11-2pm. An extraordinary piece of theatre telling the story of Britain’s Women’s Land Army of World War II, Lilies on the Land at the Wharf Theatre, and No Fixed Abode play The Three Crowns.

Midlife Krisis Bonfire Night at The Barge, HoneyStreet.

Apache Cats at The Wheatsheaf Inn, Calne.

Chippenham Kickboxing Academy: Hero of the Hall at Melksham Assembly Hall. Raindrops at Melksham Conservative Club.

Martin Jenkins Groove Ensemble at the Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

Be Like Will at The Wiltshire Yeoman, Trowbridge. Franki Soul at Emmanuel’s Yard.

Two Diamond Souls – an evening with Odin Dragonfly at the Old Rectory Stanton St Quintin.

Nick Harper’s Tempus Fugitive with support from Patrick Duff at Pound Arts, Corsham.

There will be a Palestine Solidarity March from 2pm, meeting at Regents Circus, Swindon. Mortellica at The Vic. Myra DuBois: Be Well at Swindon Arts Centre. Trois Amigos at The Woodlands Edge.

But we stay in Swindon for Editor’s Pick of the Week, when Talk in Code, The Dirty Smooth, Kotonic, and Mirrored Faces join together at Underground (formerly Level III) for a BBC Children in Need fundraiser.

Fistful or Rage at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Young Francis Hi Fi at the Royal Oak, Bath, Santarnal at The Bell. A free party at The Queen’s Head in Box.

Out In The Streets Launch Night: Drum & Bass & Jungle at Salisbury Guildhall

Martin Stephenson & The Daintees at The Tree House, Frome, and Fleetwood Bac at the Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 5th

Day course of Wood Engraving with Robin Mackenzie at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. Devizes Bonfire Night at Devizes Town FC. The Grand Order of Water Rats presents a Charity Variety Spectacular at the Wharf Theatre. And it’s the Jon Amor Trio’s monthly residency at the Southgate starting at 5pm, special guest is Adam Holgate.

Blondie & Ska at The Royal Oak, Corsham. Stories In The Dust at Sherston Village Hall.

An Evening with Glenn Hoddle at the Wyvern, Swindon.

Patsy Gamble Collective at The Bell, Bath.

Monday 6th

The Opening of the Garden of Remembrance by the Royal British Legion at the War Memorial in Devizes, I shall leave further details of days and times of services relating to Remembrance below.

Dave Gorman’s Powerpoint To The People at the Wyvern, Swindon.

The Good Stuff at The Bell, Bath.

The Hunna at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Tuesday 7th

Simon Spillett & Ross Hicks Trio at Jazz Knights in The Royal Oak, Swindon. I am The Manic Whale at The Vic, Hancock’s Half Hour at the Wyvern.

Marina Elezovic at The Bell, Bath.

Ondara is at The Tree House in Frome.

That’s all for now, folks, but our event calendar is updating, and to plan ahead, check it out. Devizine is going out to over 100K local folk and listing your event will remain free, nudge me if you’ve told me and it’s still not listed, all you have to do to insure it is here is to tell us about it!

Have a spooky week!

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 25th – 31st October 2023

Boo! We’ve got everything to do in Wiltshire this coming week, leading us into Halloween and the end of the month…..as we always do….boo! It’s that time of year when I get repetitive strain injury from typing “Halloween Party!”

Happy Jack is running at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, until Saturday, we’ve a review of it HERE.

Wednesday 25th

Devizes in Bloom invites you to plant a bulb for Christmas, at Hillworth Park. Don’t forget the regular Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Music for Miniatures has a Bubble Bach at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Changing Times: The Impact of Total War in Wiltshire and its effects Post-War, 1939-1955, with Julie Davis at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Memory Cinema, films designed in a setting suitable for those with dementia, are showing High Anxiety (PG) at Swindon Arts Centre, while there’s a Quiz Night at The Castle.

Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells and Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon are reenacted at the Rondo Theatre, Bath, and the Sun Kings play The Bell.

Thursday 26th

Those wonderful River Warriors of Calne invite families to the Pocket Park for half term autumn activities. There’s also a Demonstration of Mediumship at Calne Town Hall.

The Brewery Inn, Seend start their Halloween Haunted Garden, which runs until 31st October, which is Halloween…Boo!

Open Mic at Stallard’s, Trowbridge. Open Mic at the Crown, Aldbourne.

Hags: A Magical Extravaganza by Scratchworks at Hullavington Village Hall, and Luke Wright’s Silver Jubilee at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Spontaneous Potter at The Wyvern Theatre in Swindon, while Nervendings and Fluff play the Vic. Fran McGillvray & Mike Burke at the Tuppenny.

Parameter Promotions Presents Lewis Poole Live at The Electric Bar, Bath, and the Rondo Theatre has Butchered.

Friday 27th

Friday sees the opening of a new exhibit at the Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham, called Dark, and it runs until 26th November.

Devizes Arts Festival Comedy Night at The Corn Exchange, Devizes, and they’re celebrating Dave’s birthday at The Southgate with an ongoing Beer & Cider Festival all weekend with lots of music, no doubt. Halloween Party at the Bridge, Horton.

Trash Panda at The Coopers Arms, Pewsey. Static Moves at The Bear, Marlborough, and Marcus N Kellie Lutener is at The Lamb with a Halloween Party.

A Festival of Remembrance concert at the Civic, Trowbridge, while the Pump another round of The Future Sound of Trowbridge with Mobscure, Ravetank and LXRDVIRS.

Halloween Family Disco at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Abbamania at Melksham Assembly Hall, Halloween Party at the Pilot.

Hags: A Magical Extravaganza by Scratchworks at Hawkesbury Upton Village Hall.

Highly recommended Siouxsie and the Banshees tribute, Painted Bird at The Vic in Swindon, Sister Sister at North Swindon Club, Bad Good Times at The Queens Tap.

Sean Collins’ Smokin’ Funny at the Rondo theatre, Bath, Josienne Clarke at Chapel Arts.

Bon Giovi at the Cheese & Grain, Frome, Faux Bonamassa at the Tree House.

Saturday 28th

Autumn in the Park at Hillworth Park in Devizes. The Four Sopranos have a CPRE fundraiser at the Town Hall. Susan Santos at Long Street Blues Club. The Southgate’s ongoing Beer & Cider Festival, with music from Red Light and Free Peace.

The celebrated Halloween Party at The Three Crowns, Puscifer Presents Global Probing Halloween Bash at The Snuff-Box.

Editor’s Pick of the Week!

But, if you’re going to a Halloween party I’m a firm believer you should pick it up as a ska-loween one! Therefore it makes purr-fect sense that the Skaloween at Devizes Scooter Club HQ, the Cavalier should be Editor’s Pick of the Week, with ska band Skamageddon. In case you were wondering, the music is ska, the theme is halloween!!

Dorothy House fundraiser at The Lamb in Urchfont, with Humdinger.

Oktoberfest at Seend Community Centre.

Hooch at The Coopers Arms, Pewsey.

Apache Cats at The Talbot, Calne.

The Monster Ball at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Shivers and Shadows at The Neeld, Chippenham, followed by the Emeralds Boxing event.

The Worried Men at the Pump, Trowbridge, Train to Skaville at The Gloucester Road Conservative Club, Halloween with the Buttmonkies at Stallards, Be Like Will at The Red Admiral.

A mod, northern soul and ska night at The Players in Westbury. Band of Others, with optional Halloween fancy dress at the Cock Inn, Warminster.

Triple JD Band at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford On Avon.

Rachel Fairburn’s Showgirl at the Rondo Theatre, Bath. Steven Brinberg’s celebrated tribute to Barbra Streisand, Simply Barbra, is at Chapel Arts. Siren plays The Devonshire Arms.

The Vintage Bazaar at the Cheese & Grain in the daytime, but with Glenn Hughes sold out, people of Frome need to head for 23 Bath Street for the Frome Fair Fundraiser, a Night of BOO! – Boot Hill All Stars will entertain you.

Jo Caulfield at Swindon Arts Centre. Destination Anywhere has a mod-soul-ska club night at The Vic. Down & Dirty Halloween Party at The Woodland Edge, the amazing SexJazz at The Castle, and Damn at the North Swindon Club.

Sunday 29th

There’s a Haunted Hayride at Poulshot Village Hall; now, that sounds fun!

Devizes Town Band at The Corn Exchange, with Chloe Jordan for an autumn themed concert. Blues at The Southgate, Devizes with Thomas Atlas.

Guinea Lane Saxophone Quartet at the Heritage Centre, Pewsey.

October Jam at The Wheatsheaf, Calne.

There’s a fundraiser for Friends IVF treatment at The Vic, Swindon, with Mirrored Faces, Copper Creek, Thieving Magpies, N/SH, and more.

Junkyard Dogs play the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

King Dinosaur at The Bell, Bath.

Monday 30th

Rock The Tots: have some Spooky Fun at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Reverend Richard Coles: Borderline National Trinket at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Nightshift at the North Swindon Club.

Mobrasuto at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 31st

Trick or treat! It is Halloween and I know of no Halloween party; we’ve exhausted ourselves already rather than exorcised ourselves!

There are the regular Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon, with the Robert Fowler Quartet, Gigspanner Big Band at Swindon Arts Centre, and Gary Delaney’s Gary In Punderland at The Wyvern Theatre.

Then, Bob’s your dad’s brother it’s November, and though I confess there’s still a lot of updating to do, which I must stop playing online backgammon and get on with, there’s lots to be keeping you out of trouble, so keep an eye on our event calendar for updates for next month.

Devizine is going out to over 100K local folk and listing your event will remain free, nudge me if you’ve told me and it’s still not listed, all you have to do to insure it is here is to tell us about it!

Have a spooky week!

Trending…..

Last Remaining Tickets for Trowbridge Festival

The 50th Anniversary of the now legendary Village Pump Festival, which was brought back to the UK festival circuit in 2018 by director Nicholas…

Jul 15, 2024

“Faith” at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, July 12th 2024.

by Ian Diddams.photos by Ian Diddams and Luke Ashley Tame at Acadia Creative. In the U.K. a one hundred and sixty-eight women and girls…

Jul 14, 2024Jul 25, 2024

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 10th – 16th July 2024

Jam-packed July! If there’s always lots to do throughout the year, July especially so! Here’s what we’ve found in the wilds of Wiltshire this…

Jul 9, 2024

The Pleasure was all Minety!

Broke my Minety Music Festival cherry, and it was gurt lush! When it comes to live music and festivals, I initially set a high…

Jul 8, 2024Jul 10, 2024

DOCA Picnicing in the Park!

With the unfortunate cancellation of Devizes International Street Festival this year due to Arts Council cuts, all eyes are on our wonderful Hillworth Park…

Jul 7, 2024

Michelle Gonelan Makes History

Last political rant from me for a while, given all that happened today, pinky promise! Hitler shot himself, then, as requested, he was doused…

Jul 5, 2024

WOK SNOWFLICKS GIT THERE KICKS ON DEVIZS ISSUES (BIT BETTER) THIS ELEKTION!!

Need to keep informed and updated on the general election and its effect locally? Don’t bother with national media sources, everything you need to…

Jul 3, 2024Jul 4, 2024

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 3rd -9th July 2024

Jam-packed July! If there’s always lots to do throughout the year, July especially so! Here’s what we’ve found in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming…

Jul 3, 2024Jul 3, 2024

MantonFest Magic, Again

With the danceable penultimate act attracting a packed crowd, I observed a young teenager, who, on spotting a disregarded beer bottle, picked it up…

Jul 2, 2024

“Macbeth” at Cleeve House, Seend, July 1st-6th 2024

By Mick BrianPhotos by cast and arenaphotography William Shakespeare’s tragedy, inspired by real life eleventh century Scottish kings, is well known by anybody that’s…

Jul 2, 2024Jul 2, 2024

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 18th – 24th October 2023

Gliding through October at colossal speed, with temporary bursts of cold spells hinting winter at us, and some, some I repeat, faintly whispering the C word; we’re gathered here today not in anticipation of the yule but to look at what’s going on this coming week and weekend, as we usually do…..

Okay my little poppets, please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in as regular your digestive system after a vindaloo throughout the week, or you might miss something really up your street. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead.

Wednesday 18th

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

An Evening With Harry Redknapp at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, Fiona Allen’s On The Run at Swindon Arts Centre.

Monkey Chuckle at the Bell in Bath, and award-winning youth theatre company Merriman Theatre Group presents Six Teen Edition, a full-length adaptation of Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss’ international phenomenon SIX, modified for performance by teen actors for family audiences, opens at the Rondo Theatre, Bath, running until 21st October.

Wrecking Ball: A Nashville Experience at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Thursday 19th

Kevin Bloody Wilson at The Wyvern Theatre, and Tom Stade’s Natural Born Killer at Swindon Arts Centre. Dark Prophecy and Ritual Divide at The Vic, and Kid Carpet & Grasslands at the Tuppenny, Swindon.

Wildlife photographer Doug Allan’s It’s a Wrap at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 20th

Tom Harris and Pat Ward’s new venture No Alarms & No Devizes at The Barge on HoneyStreet.

Yes, Scouting For Girls are in Marlborough on Friday, thanks to Sound Knowledge, but it sold out like ages ago; you’ve got to be quick on these things! Though you can find the duo Stripped at The Lamb.

Willow Hill at the Civic Hall, Trowbridge.

A relaxed and BSL Interpreted performance of The Gruffalo’s Child at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Fleetwood Mac & Tom Petty Legacy at Chapel Arts, Bath. Bluesoul are at the Boathouse in Bradford-on-Avon.

Genesis Visible Touch at the Cheese & Grain, So Toto at The Tree House, Frome.

Saturday 21st

Matchbox Mutiny at The Three Crowns, Devizes, The Will Edmunds Trio at The Southgate, Big Blue This at The Crown. CSF Pro Wrestling’s Deadly Draw 2023 at The Corn Exchange, Devizes.

Nothing Rhymes With Orange play The Bell, Great Cheverell.

Editor’s Pick of the Week goes to The Female of the Species, local super-group’s annual outing at Seend Community Centre, this year is for Alzheimer’s Support and has the theme, the MTV Years, and will be a-maze-zing! Tickets are £12.50 and selling fast, from HERE.

Colin Paul & The Persuaders at Melksham Rock n Roll Club.

It’s also Trowbridge Carnival, and there’s a Pipe & Slippers Rave at the Civic.

Women In Rock at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Rhys James’s Split Milk at Swindon Arts Centre, Matty One Man with The Forgetting Curve and Here Come the Crows at The Vic, 2-ToneAllSkas at The Woodlands Edge, Metaprism, Drallion and Grove Warden at Underground, Homer plays The Bakers Arms, Post 12 at North Swindon Club, and One Trick Combo t the Queen’s Tap.

Ward Knutur Townes Trio at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Mini Ravers Lil Monsters Halloween Party at the Cheese & Grain, followed by The Freddie and Queen Experience. Junkyard Dogs play The Sun in Frome.

Sunday 22nd

Manos Puestas at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

Sound Knowledge presents Bombay Bicycle Club at St. Peter’s Church, Marlborough.

Sunbirds play The Neeld, Chippenham.

Knives, LagunaGoons, Modern Evils and Viduals at The Vic, Swindon, Legends of American Country at The Wyvern Theatre, Rockabilly Rumble at North Swindon Club.

Jake Leg Jug Band plays the Bell in Bath.

Independent record store Raves from the Grave in Frome have a mega “we’ve run out of space” sale at the Assembly Rooms from 10-3pm with DJs and refreshments.

Monday 23rd

Based on John Godber’s Yorkshire grandparents, and other members of his family, Happy Jack is a memory play, which examines the relationship between Jack and Liz, and opens at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes on Monday, running until October 28th. We hope to bring you a review on this prior to the opening on Monday.

Flibbertigibbet Theatre: Babble at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Hot Club of Avon at the Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 24th

Half Term Tennis Holiday Camp starts at Devizes Tennis Club, running until 26th October.

John Law Re-Creations at Jazz Knights in The Royal Oak, Swindon, Lil’ Jimmy Reed with Bob Hall & Hilary Blythe at Swindon Arts Centre, and La Bamba at The Wyvern Theatre.

Sue Harding is at The Bell, Bath.

That’s all we’ve got for you so far, but remember to keep an eye on our event calendar for updates. I’m delighted to rap stats with you, and announce Devizine is flying over the record-breaking annual hits from last year, and there’s still two and half months to go. Devizine is going out to over 100,000 local folk and listing your event will remain free, all you have to do to insure it is here is to tell us about it!

Have a great week!