Category: arts

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 26th June – 2nd July 2024

July is around the corner, the sun has his hat on, here’s what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week….

And note we have well over quadruple the amount of events listed than the new and rather expensive looking official council events website for this weekend, and ours has cost you, the taxpayer, only your time in reading this and supporting us. The very idea for it was, coincidentally, put forward by a councillor with a personal grudge on me for some unknown reason. The only reason I could guess why the council does not support us is because we will bring you events which may be unwelcomed by them, such as protests and rallies. All rather silly really, as it is rare for our area to have such happenings anyway, go figure!

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.

Wednesday 26th

Devizes Books Presents: A tribute to Brigid Harpham, at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. Acoustic Jam at The Southgate.

Melksham General Election Husting at Spencer Sports & Social Club.

Open Mic at Stallards, Trowbridge.

Richard Herring’s Can I Have My Ball Back? at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Ria Lina’s Riawakening at the Rondo Theatre, Bath. Helele at the Bell, Bath.

And of course, Glastonbury opens its gates for all you lucky, lucky people!

Thursday 27th

Wharf Writers’ Group perform Where’s The Cat live at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes. Preview Here.

Open Mic at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon.

Sayers & After Knights at The Tuppenny, Swindon.

M4F June Open Mic and Jamming Session at The Rude Giant, Salisbury.

London Calling at The Tree House, Frome.

Friday 28th

Liam Merrigan Band, John E Wright & Josh Oldfield at the Cellar Bar, Bear Hotel, Devizes.

Chippenham Food & Drink Festival begins.

Mother Vulture at the Pump, Trowbridge, with NervEndings and Worlds Best Dad. The Soul Strutters at the Civic.

Dr John Cooper Clarke with special guests at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Lone Sharks and Head Noise at The Three Horseshoes. El Toro at The Boathouse. The Karport Collective at the Seven Stars, Winsley.

Avalon Comedy Network: Aurie Styla, Caitlin Powell, Kieran James Boyd & Dom Hatton-Woods at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Kerrang’d at the Vic, Swindon.

Rock the Tots’ Jungle at Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Saturday 29th

Editor’s Pick of the Week is rather obvious, it’s MantonFest near Marlborough, a wonderful little festival, so kind they let me choose an act to play this year, which is Chippenham folk singer-songwriter M3G. Grab your tickets and I might see you there.

Devizes Pride at Hillworth Park, second Devizes Pride in the park all day. Crammer Watch 2024 Launch Event, at the Crammer, Devizes. Plan of Action at The Three Crowns. The Worried Men at The Southgate.

Poulshot Village Fete. BBQ with the Mangled Wurzels at Erlestoke Golf Club.

The Vox Beatles at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Calne Summer Carnival. 41 Fords at The Talbot, Calne.

The Stories at the Three Crowns, Chippenham. Brave Rival & Sloetrain at the Pewsham. Living Spit: Adolf & Winston at the Neeld.

The Junkyard Dogs launch their new album at The Pump, Trowbridge; (need a review of the album, guys, let me know?)

Trowbridge Symphony Orchestra at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Ragged Union at The Three Horseshoes.The Hot Juice Project at The Boathouse.

Matthew and the Atlas at Pound Arts, Corsham.

REME Museum Extravaganza in Lynham. 

Italia Conti at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Tony Scothern at the Packhorse, Larkhill.

The Hengehogs at the Kings, Amesbury.

Dave Howell at the George & Dragon, Salisbury.

Don Giovanni at the Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Sunday 30th

Seend Fawlty Players presents That’s Life at the Seend Community Centre.

Sunflower Events Summer Craft Fair at The Corn Exchange, Devizes. Wilts V-Dub Club Meet at Devizes Market Place. Mr Griff at The Southgate (?)

Open Mic at The Barge, Honeystreet. Music on a Sunday Afternoon with the Little Big Band at St Johns, Pewsey.

Open Mic at the Red Lion, Lacock.

June Open Mic at the Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

The James Oliver Band at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. The Coyote Country Band at The Boathouse.

Schtumm presents Sebastain & Me and Kotonic at The Queen’s Head, Box.

Peter & The Wolves at the Bell, Bath.

Open Mic at the Boot Inn, Tisbury.

Everybody Sing at Swindon Arts Centre. The Vipers at the Vic.

Monday 1st July

Lawrence Art Society: Live Art Demonstration, Sketching for Summer at Devizes Conservative Club.

Tuesday 2nd

Open Mic at The Royal Oak, 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.

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!

Have a good week!

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Devizes Arts Festival Rules, OK?!

Alas, it’s been a long week since the Devizes Arts Festival called time. It feels a little like when my Dad would take the Christmas decorations down; sure, the lava lamp and toilet roll dolly remained but somehow the rest of the house looked bare and sparse!

Another great year for the annual festival which again saw Devizes sprinkled with a variety of events and the coming, and going of talented outsiders. There’s a feedback form the committee would care for you to helpfully fill, HERE, meanwhile I will reflect on the festival as a whole, after some great reports from myself and our esteemed writers, of which you can click on the titles of to read the full review; awesome what we can do nowadays, isn’t it?!

Far more organised than previous years, at least, we drew a rota we rarely referred back to! I led our team out to battle by covering the opening Friday night’s pirate shenanigans, and topped it off with Saturday’s arrival of Lady Nade, undoubtedly my favourite. Thereafter our roving reporter of insurmountable knowledge and something apparently called basic grammar, Andy Fawthrop would pip me to the post with a non-stop barrage of reviews. He was steadfast at the venues, I was wavering, and Ian, well, Ian was a Slambovian Circus of Dreams. After a gate technical blunder it was great to also have the one and only John Winterton of the Wharf Theatre contribute his professional thoughts on one wharfside gig.

Thanks to everyone for the teamwork. If Andy won on quantity, I excuse myself by reminding people I’ve work commitments while most are tucked up in bed snoring the theme tune to CHIPS. I could argue if there was one negative piece of feedback, it would be that more events at the festival could be organised over weekends, extending the festival perhaps, but rewarding the organisers a well-earned midweek break. Yet, Devizes Arts Festival is not to blame for the extremist early hours of my real labour, so I guess this is a self-inflicted matter; if only I was a popstar instead!

The only other niggly I suspect will come up through feedback is price, it is a sign of the times I’m afraid. A mountain of work and money goes into this and any other event, something I think people take a smidgen for granted. We’ve seen the demise of events and venues alike over the last few years, and it comes down to undercutting themselves at their box office. It’s such a shame, and all we can really do is convince people what is worthy of your hard-earned cash, and what is not. Despite a massively erroneous preconception Devizes Arts Festival is akin to a Saga holiday in some form or fashion, I can assure you it is most definitely not, it is a very worthy event, and needs you younglings to support it. Ticket sales this year varied between events, some sold out unexpectedly, others which the committee assumed would be winners suffered slightly; it is not an exact science, this is why your feedback is crucial.

Don’t forget the festival also hosts many free fringe events across town during the period. These are always well attended, hence surmising a fair ticket price is always a benefit to any event. At all fringe events I pause for thought like a vicar on Radio 2, to acknowledge these free gigs is to only partially immerse yourself in Devizes Arts Festival, and you should consider if you enjoyed them, how much more amazing the paid events are, and treat yourself accordingly.

Friday 31st May the shebang pounded off the starting block in a lively punk-pirate fashion. Of Jolly Roger I said it was, “loud and sprightly unpretentious punkish tomfoolery with a pirate theme, yet, at times there was concentrated and thought-provoking narratives in their original material too. Euphoric tunes such as the most poignant Silent Mountain temporarily broke the frenzy, whereas characters like a bloke who props up the bar, conveyed this is a three sheets to the wind partying band to be taken tongue-in-cheek, but, dressed as pirates kinda gave that game away!” among other things. It was a fiery marine-themed start to the landlocked festival.

Yet I was holding out all expectations for Saturday with Lady Nade, and it did not disappoint. It was my personal favourite and what a way to begin June. I deemed it mesmerising, hailing it, “a breath-taking performance, only Nina Simone between Simon & Garfunkel could’ve equalised.”  

The first Sunday there was a festival walk; none of our writers seemed to take the walks up; maybe I should buy them some stout boots, Thermos, and pack them a cheese & pickle sandwich?! Neither Adam Alexander’s Seed Detective that day, nor Eddy Allen’s Solo Loop Show get coverage from us, for which I apologise. But Andy clocked in on Monday, reviewing Dr. Phil Hammond’s ‘How to Fix the NHS.’ which he called “a cracking night’s entertainment – informative, interesting, and absolutely hilarious.” Personally, and without getting too political, I had my own interpretation for a start to fixing the NHS, and that’s to stop voting in self-serving thieving clowns.

But, I digress, because once Andy gets in gear there’s no stopping him. Tuesday he covered its first classical offering The Edward Cross Quintet, a Wiltshire based multi‐instrumentalist with a background in composition and production, “overall,” Andy stated, it was “technically enjoyable, but emotionally not very engaging.” Well, I do ask our reviewers to provide an honest opinion, even if I’m a suck-up! 

Liz Grand’s Mrs Churchill we missed on Tuesday, Mike Dilger’s One Thousand Shades of Green as well. Unfortunately we can’t be everywhere, but we try.

Likely the most interesting reviews was from the Wednesday of the first week when baffling geneticist, author and broadcaster Adam Rutherford came to town. Here’s where Andy shines, as it would have been too intellectual for me to cast such a detailed review on. “Informative and absolutely fascinating,” Andy called it. “Adam is no comedian, but he does have a light touch, and just like on the radio, he was able to bring science very much to life, to engage his audience, and to leave everyone a little richer in understanding.”

Hollie McNish’s Lobster Tour sold out, but we didn’t manage to catch this one either. Andy covered probably the widest known name, comedian Lucy Porter on Thursday. I really wanted to do this one, but hey I think Andy deserved a treat. “It was for the most part, very clean and straight-forward stuff. There was nothing that could be considered “edgy”, there was nothing political, and there was (amazingly) no swearing,” said Andy of it; boring!! “As such, it probably kept most of the audience in their comfort zone for most of the time, but it was no less hilarious for all of that.”

Jo Carley and the Old Dry Skulls was missed on the Friday, I did put my gumboots back on for The Cable Street Collective on the Saturday. This was awesome. “From the off I’m reminded of the marabi sound of Hugh Masekela,” I suggested, “with the upfront brass of trumpet and saxophone. Yet you couldn’t pigeonhole this with a thousand words, it’s wholly unique. Female fronted by an energetic yogi, she somersaults the high stage projecting a mid-tone vocal range with unrivalled passion, encouraging her audience to follow the leader,” and they did. Cable Street had the Exchange up dancing.

The end of the first week saw another Festival Walk and a free fringe event in the trusty Three Crowns, Rumour, the latter I did manage! “Americana trio Rumour from the Black Country, pitched up in the yard with a breezy underlying familiarity to their sound. As the name suggests, covers were Fleetwood Mac top-heavy but delivered beautifully amidst a few other classics and some blended original material. Couldn’t fault them if I tried.” Annie Parker Trio was also a fringe event, but I went home for tea and bed.

Midweek marvel, Andy was back on the scene Monday 10th June, with classical pianist Ida Pellicciolo. “The whole performance was both intense and mesmerising, played and presented by a world-class pianist who was clearly absolutely dedicated to her work, and completely on top of her game.  Entirely justifiably there was sustained applause at the end from a very appreciative audience, provoking not one, but two, short encores, the latter of which was an “impromptu” by the more modern Finnish composer Jean Sibelius (1865 – 1957).”

Again on Tuesday, Andy was on it. Belinda Kirk’s The Life-Changing Power of Adventure this time, which although “much against my will,” Andy said “I was actually on the edge of my seat listening to this stuff.  And I wasn’t alone either – the rest of the packed audience seemed pretty enraptured too.  She’s an enthusiastic, energetic and very articulate speaker.” So, wellbeing tips, ask Andy, I’d only recommend a sausage sandwich.

Due to a misunderstanding, when Ian Diddams arrived on the scene to cover Discovering Antarctica : Heroic tales of Shackleton, Crean and Scott at the Wharf Theatre it wasn’t to be, and so John Winterton stepped in his shoes. “An evening well spent and testament to the hard work obviously put into the research put into the script and the characterisation of Tom, by Aidan.”  Kate Webb and Jon Stock’s The Darker Side of Wiltshire we missed.

“Martin Simpson is, in the contemporary folk world at least, the equivalent of Royalty, or a National Treasure,” Andy said, when he came to Devizes on Wednesday, and our man on the scene summed it, in a word, as a “masterclass.”

Andy gave us his opinion on A Lunchtime Amuse-Bouche, with Duo Tutti on Thursday, and The Sound of Blue Note too, which he hailed “a bunch of guys who were clearly very comfortable with their material, with their arrangements, and with playing in each other’s company.  They sounded absolutely great, tight when they needed to be, but with that wonderful ability to fall back and give space to the many solos and improvisations,” and requested more jazz for Devizes.

Finally they thought better of it and let Ian in! The Slambovian Circus of Dreams on Friday was something I really should have attended judging by the look of it alone. “Hillbilly Pink Floyd” Ian called it, but expanded “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 Slambovian Circus of Dreams @ Devizes Arts Festival 2024

No one was tempted by Huw Williams’ Organ Recital at St John’s Church, or the The Poetry Slam at the Wharf which polished off the festivities. Saturday night’s hypnotist Matt Hale was unfortunately cancelled, to which remained a marvellous afternoon in the British Lion with skiffle band The Junco Shakers. I was content, it was one of those fringe events which simply worked.

Overall, it’s been a great year for Devizes Arts Festival, with some world class acts and much enjoyment was had by all. Though as far as I know, Devizes has never had a hypnotist, and for all its uniqueness I’d have thought this gig would be a sell-out. It is unfortunate, due to low ticket sales it was pulled. It proves perhaps an error in judgement, or could imply more advertising would have helped, I really don’t know; I was looking forward to it. Again, all I can say is we need to support arts in town, and Devizes Arts Festival is the king of this. We look forward to another year of which I urge to get onboard for; the thought of losing this gem on our calendar as we’ve lost others would be too much to bear. 

Thanks to our wonderful team for their valid input, especially our part of the furniture, Andy Fawthrop, who summed it up thus, “Another excellent festival in my opinion – well organised and publicised. The range and variety of events, and the many different venues, together with the Free Fringe, made this another good year. Thanks all those involved for all the hard work you put in to achieve this. Hats off!”

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REVIEW – Devizes Arts Festival – The Sound Of Blue Note @ Assembly Room 13th June 2024

Cool, Man

Andy Fawthrop

Devizes Arts Festival’s programme continued on Thursday night, and it was time for a little jazz.  As I often say (apparently) there’s nothing like sax in the evening….

Terry Quinney’s Sound Of Blue Note features some of the most prominent jazz musicians in the Southwest whose main aim is to accurately recreate the music and aesthetic that defined the Blue Note Records sound of the 1950s and 1960s.  Their repertoire features music from Blue Note legends like Hank Mobley, Freddie Hubbard, Art Blakey, Horace Silver and more, all directly transcribed from the original recordings and performed with all the swinging intensity that is synonymous with the legendary record label.

The band last night consisted of Andy Urquhart (trumpet), Terry Quinney (saxophones), Ben Taylor (double bass), Andy Chapman (drums) and Phil Doyle (piano).  And they turned up, fully suited and booted, very much looking the part of what (I imagine) a 50s/ 60s jazz club band ought to look like. 

I’d been hoping that we’d have more of a club atmosphere and aesthetic, with a tables-and-chairs layout, but we had to settle for a more traditional cinema seating arrangement.  No matter – the band and the audience settled right in.  Describing themselves at one point as a “Blue Note covers band, or tribute band”, the mood and the swing were soon established.  I prefer the word “homage” myself, but I might then be justifiably accused of being a tad pretentious.  No matter.  Back to the jazz.

This was a bunch of guys who were clearly very comfortable with their material, with their arrangements, and with playing in each other’s company.  They sounded absolutely great, tight when they needed to be, but with that wonderful ability to fall back and give space to the many solos and improvisations.

I was not personally familiar with much of the material, but fortunately I was accompanied by someone who knew what they were listening to and was able to explain some of the finer points to me.  Added to Terry Quinney’s between-numbers commentary, I picked up more of the background.  But it really didn’t matter – the quintet delivered what, to my ears at least, was a great night of jazz.  Through two 50-minute sets, the band held the audience enthralled and entertained.  The applause was warm and frequent, and an encore was fully deserved.

I just wish, as I’ve said before, that we had more frequent opportunities to catch some jazz in D-Town on a more regular basis, rather than having to wait for a year for the Arts Festival to book artists of this calibre.  There’s an opportunity there somewhere!

You can find out more about The Sound Of Blue Note at terryquinney.wixsite.com/sobn

The Devizes Arts Festival is moving towards its end now, but there are still several events on Friday night and over the weekend, with tickets available, until Sunday 16th June at various venues around the town. 

Tickets can be booked at Devizes Books or online at www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk 

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REVIEW – Devizes Arts Festival – Duo Tutti @ Assembly Room 13th June 2024

A Lunchtime Amuse-Bouche

by Andy Fawthrop

Devizes Arts Festival’s programme continued on Thursday afternoon with a lunchtime classical concert in the beautiful surroundings of the Assembly Hall in the Town Hall.  Coming on a market day, it was no surprise that town was busy, and plenty of people used the opportunity to make their way to this splendid venue.

Duo Tutti is made up of Ruth Molins (flutes) and Alex Wilson (piano).  They are inspired by old and new music, creating sound worlds you might not expect to hear from a flute/ piano duo. Ruth plays a standard flute, alto flute, bass flute and the piccolo, accompanied by Alex’s piano.

Their programme was an interesting and eclectic mix of items, much of it from composers I’d not heard of before, but no the less enjoyable for that.

We started with the Sonata in F from Anna Amalia of Prussia (1723 -87).  This lady I was surprised to discover was the sister of Frederick The Great.  This piece in three movements, although simple in sound and structure, was bright, bouncy and just the thing to get started with.  There followed three very contrasting pieces from contemporary composers: John Rutter’s Suite Antique (in six short movements), Ruth’s own piece (Fuse for Bass Flute & Piano) and Elena Kats-Chernin’s Eliza’s Aria for Piccolo.  Each piece was delivered with freshness and confidence by the duo.

Keeping with the contemporary theme, we moved on to Arthur Butterworth’s Ukko, featuring the alto flute, and a piece that was slightly deeper and fuller, offering a darker, slower and slightly more discordant feeling throughout.  Then on to two “miniatures” from Constance Warren, the first being slow and thoughtful, and the second very short piece being much livelier.

Finally, slightly back in time to Jules Mouquet (1867 – 1946) for La Flute De Pan, a work in three short movements.  The first piece was sparkling, with many flourishes.  And, following the slower, quieter middle passage, the final section moved from a gentle fade-out, to another frothy champagne ending.

Throughout the concert the flutes were always to the fore, carrying the main themes, with the piano playing more of a supportive, sympathetic accompanying role.  But the combination worked splendidly, and provided a diverse and entertaining lunchtime concert.  Bravo!

You can find out more about Duo Tutti at www.duotutti.com/   

The Devizes Arts Festival is moving towards its end now, but there are still several events with tickets available, until Sunday 16th June at various venues around the town.  Tickets can be booked at Devizes Books or online at www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk

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Discovering Antarctica: Heroic tales of Shackleton, Crean and Scott; at the Wharf Theatre for Devizes Arts Festival

John Winterton

For the first time in a great number of years the Wharf Theatre was host to a show in this year’s Devizes Arts Festival. Unlike a number of other shows in this year’s programme, this one was sold out, and quite early on, so did the good people of Devizes have prior knowledge of this show?

Aidan Dooley’s one-man show about discovering Antarctica from the perspective of Tom Crean are stories of adventures with both Scott and Shackleton, which if my basic recollection of history is anywhere near accurate, would be both a unique and fascinating tale.

On entering the theatre the sounds of the arctic winds were the only noise, and although initially sounding like sea, maybe both, along with the stage littered with all manner of items and clothing you may have needed for an expedition lit with a nighttime rich blue highlighted with a small warm glow, it set the scene for the upcoming tales. 

Aidan came onto the stage and with a rich Irish accent introduced us to Tom, and the apparel that any good arctic explorer would have with him at the turn of the last century. With a witty, chatty delivery you very quickly felt like Tom was talking as if either to an assembly of wide-eyed children or to a group of acquaintances in a local bar, sometimes more like one, then moving to the other.

You did, however, feel he was talking to you, telling you his story, letting you into his world of cold and wind. A world where crying with your head down is given away by the steam from your tears, a world where working with too many layers on would make you sweat only for it to freeze should you then stop working and cool down any. For those that went with him we were treated to stories about being left out of the five who would attempt to reach the South Pole because of a cough, a cough that was to prove fortuitous as those who did not go on were sent back along the supply route to the base camp, even if they did go slightly in the wrong way back resulting in a very well described ride on a sled down a hill, quite a steep hill at that. 

Aidan totally embodies Tom, so much so that you forget that they are not his stories that he is telling you. Stories that carried you through the hour and a half as if it was only a matter of minutes. I genuinely was lost in the story telling and would not have been surprised if on leaving the theatre we were feet deep in snow and surrounded by penguins.

An evening well spent and testament to the hard work obviously put into the research put into the script and the characterisation of Tom, by Aidan. 

A great find by the Devizes Arts Festival and well worthy of the full house. 

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LilyPetals Debut EP

One of many young indie bands which impressed me at Bradford Roots Festival, and proof there’s more than the name suggests at The Wiltshire Music…

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REVIEW – Devizes Arts Festival – Martin Simpson @ Corn Exchange 12th June 2024

Masterclass

by Andy Fawthrop

Devizes Arts Festival’s programme continued last night, and it was the turn of another big name to grace the stage of the Corn Exchange.

Martin Simpson is, in the contemporary folk world at least, the equivalent of Royalty, or a National Treasure.  He’s been performing and recording for over forty years, and I’ve personally had the pleasure of seeing him live in concert and at music festivals several times over the years, so I was very much looking forward to this one.

Martin is the consummate singer/ songwriter. His performances are always filled with remarkable intimate solo guitar playing in the finger-picking style, and each gig is a masterclass.  One of the hardest-working people on the folk/ roots circuit, he travels the length and breadth of the UK and beyond, giving audiences passion, sorrow, love, beauty, tragedy and majesty through his playing. Equally at home playing English traditional folk, American folk and blues, or his own compositions, he is consistently named as one of the very finest fingerstyle guitar players in the world.

Nor is he an artist who sits still for very long, averaging a brand new studio album almost every two years.  His latest offering “Skydancers” is his 12th full length solo record since 1992.  Recorded in his home town of Sheffield, the album collects new, self-penned originals alongside 18th century broadside ballads and reverent re-workings from the songbooks of (amongst) others, Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Woody Guthrie, Nancy Kerr, June Tabor and Craig Johnson.

Last night “Skydancers” featured heavily, as might have been expected, with several tracks to the fore, narrated laconically with the story behind each one.  The early numbers were laid-back, contemplative and without introduction, but then Martin took the audience into his confidence, and talked us through his thinking. There were a couple of political jibes at the state of the current Government, but largely he stuck to the song-writing and the music-making.  And with hardly any noticeable shift, we switched from the traditional across to the modern, to Bob Dylan’s “Buckets of Rain”.

His singing was strong, with the familiar nasal twang, but it was the guitar-playing that really caught the imagination.  Even his tuning-up trills, and introductions were little classics.  His fondness for tuning and re-tuning (by ear) is legendary in the folk world, but last night it was more disguised as he regaled us with stories relating to the genesis and/ or the content of each song.  There were birds such as the hen-harrier (the “skydancer”), kites, swallows, and buzzards.  There were trees and hills.  There was the Wessex Ridgeway and Slapton Sands. There were real and legendary historical characters.  There were name-drops.  It was all fascinating stuff.  And then, after what had only seemed to be twenty minutes, more than twice that time had actually passed, and we were into the interval, where The Mighty Simpson Marketing Machine swung into action.  (This just meant Martin himself selling CDs in the foyer and chatting to fans, but it sounds good).

The second half brought more of the same, but with perhaps more of an Appalachian, Americana feel to several numbers.  We had covers from Jackson C. Frank and Leon Rosselson, Anne Briggs.  We had re-worked traditional songs, including an Easter carol, and we had more self-penned material.  Again, the audience was rapt, and there was never any doubt that there would be huge applause and an encore.

Another absolutely sparkling night of world-class entertainment.  Another hit for the Arts Festival.

You can find out more about Martin at www.martinsimpson.com  

The Devizes Arts Festival continues until Sunday 16th June at various venues around the town. 

Tickets can be booked at Devizes Books or online at www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk 

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REVIEW – Devizes Arts Festival – Belinda Kirk @ Cheese Hall 11th June 2024

Right Out Of The Comfort Zone

by Andy Fawthrop

Following a lively few days of entertaining and varied events over this last weekend, we’re now into Devizes Arts Festival’s second week. 

I decided to trundle along to the Cheese Hall earlier this afternoon to find out what Belinda Kirk might have to say for herself.  Stuff about being adventurous, I’d heard.  I settled down into my seat and awaited a comfortable afternoon chat.  But an hour later things had changed somewhat.

Belinda Kirk is a world-record holding explorer, researcher and a leading campaigner promoting the benefits of “adventure” on wellbeing. She’s written the best-selling, award-nominated, book “Adventure Mind: Transform Your Wellbeing By Choosing Challenge”.  She’s led dozens of international expeditions, numerous youth development challenges, and pioneered inclusive adventures for people with disabilities. She established the Explorers Connect organisation and website in order to spread the word about the life-changing impact of adventure. She’s encouraged over 30,000 ordinary people to engage in transformational outdoor challenges. And most recently she’s faced her greatest challenge: to continue to live adventurously since becoming a parent.

Belinda spoke for about 45 minutes before hosting a Q&A session.  In her talk she emphasised that she was not just talking about “being in Nature” (the benefits of which are now well documented), but about engaging with the world in a much more vigorous way by taking up personal and/ or team challenges.  She was talking jungles, deserts, remote places, open seas, and I was just beginning to feel slightly uncomfortable.

Outlining how participating in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme as a sixteen year-old had been a complete sliding doors moment for her, she described how she got the bug to get “out there”.  Over the next few years she joined, and later led, several expeditions, worked for five or six years with that Big Softie Bear Grylls, worked as a diver for a year, and took part in a row-round-Britain challenge.  I was fully awake by now and starting to feel how exceptionally lazy I’ve been all my life.

She discovered how impactful it was to undertake both large and small adventures.  She saw with her own eyes time and time again how people of all ages found these challenges to be, literally, life-changing. And it was then that she began to research the psychology of what was actually going on here.  She described in great detail a major expedition she’d led to cross Nicaragua coast-to-coast with a group of severely disabled youngsters, including (incredibly to me) climbing to the summit of an active volcano.  And there were many other examples and stories too.  Much against my will, I was actually on the edge of my seat listening to this stuff.  And I wasn’t alone either – the rest of the packed audience seemed pretty enraptured too.  She’s an enthusiastic, energetic and very articulate speaker.

Belinda spoke of moving from your “comfort zone” to your “stretch zone” and heading towards your “panic zone”.  It sounded like jargon, but it wasn’t – I was definitely on the same page by now.  Pushing yourself has many benefits in enriching your life – giving yourself new skills and confidence, finding out what you’re really capable of, and (crucially) having some fun.   I’m having some of that!

She finished with a lively Q&A session, before signing copies of her book “Adventure Mind: Transform Your Wellbeing By Choosing Challenge”.  But I couldn’t wait around for that – I needed to get outside into my “stretch zone” to swim the K&A Canal, sort out the problems in The Crammer, and single-handedly remove all the traffic-lights across D-Town.  Then I might sit down with a well-deserved cup of tea and a biscuit.

A solidly entertaining afternoon, and another absolute gem from DAF.

You can find out more about Belinda’s adventuring at www.explorersconnect.com/

The Devizes Arts Festival continues until Sunday 16th June at various venues around the town.  Tickets can be booked at Devizes Books or online at www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk

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REVIEW – Devizes Arts Festival – Ida Pelliccioli @ Assembly Room  10th June 2024 

World Class Piano

by Andy Fawthrop


And, following a lively few days of varied events over this last weekend, we’re now into Devizes Arts Festival’s second week.  And at last it was time for some serious classical music, and we were certainly treated to something special when Ida Pelliccioli played the Leslie Taylor Memorial Concert in the Assembly Room last night.  Once again the setting of the beautiful Assembly Hall perfectly matched the style and the quality of the entertainment.  Indeed this very room was constructed in the very early years of the 19th century, immediately after the deaths of three of the night’s composers.

Ida Pelliccioli is a world-renowned concert pianist who has performed throughout Europe, Canada and South Africa. She was born in Italy and studied in Nice and Paris and, since 2021, she has taught at the Paris Conservatoire.

Her selected programme last night, which was accompanied by extensive notes and a short introduction, was inspired by the forgotten music of ‘the Spanish Scarlatti’, composer Manuel Blasco de Nebra. 

We began with three short sonatas by the Italian composer Domenico Scarlatti (1685 – 1757).  The first and third of which were at a sparkling, lively tempo, whilst the second was slower and calmer.  However all three were played by Ida with plenty of gusto and attack.  All of them were very short, and this part of the programme was completed in only ten minutes.

The next section featured two fantasias by the Austrian Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756 – 1791).  These two pieces seemed (to me at least) to possess a little more depth and substance.  And again we had the contrast between the dramatic and exciting first piece, set against the more romantic and portentous second piece.

There then followed two pieces by a Spanish composer I’d not previously heard of – Manuel Blasco de Nebra (1750 – 1784), whom Ida described as “the Spanish Scarlatti” and very much a composer that time seems to have forgotten.  These two sonatas were each in two movements: an adagio, followed by a more lively allegro.  I found them interesting and entertaining, but not as good as what had gone before.

And finally we came to another Austrian composer Franz Schubert (1797 – 1828).  Ida played his Drei Klavierstucke (three piano pieces) and, again, we had the structure of one piece that was thoughtful, melancholy, plangent and poignant sandwiched in between two pieces that were far more lively and exuberant.


The whole performance was both intense and mesmerising, played and presented by a world-class pianist who was clearly absolutely dedicated to her work, and completely on top of her game.  Entirely justifiably there was sustained applause at the end from a very appreciative audience, provoking not one, but two, short encores, the latter of which was an “impromptu” by the more modern Finnish composer Jean Sibelius (1865 – 1957).

Another fabulous night at the Arts Festival, and thanks (yet again) to DAF for bringing such top-notch entertainment to our little town.  I only wish we had a lot more opportunities in D-Town to hear such wonderful classical music, played by a world-class musician.

The Devizes Arts Festival continues until Sunday 16th June at various venues around the town. 

Tickets can be booked at Devizes Books or online at www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk 

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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.

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!

Have a good week!

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Cable Street Collective at Devizes Arts Festival

Seven-piece sui generis ensemble The Cable Street Collective were everything I expected them to be last night at The Corn Exchange; another impressive booking for the middle weekend of Devizes Arts Festival…..

Hailing from the Shadwell area of East London as the name suggests, if Cable Street is remembered for violent clashes between fascist Blackshirts and the multicultural populous, now reduced to lobbing milkshakes, multiculturalism also plays a major part of the band’s influences despite them being largely Caucasian.

From the off I’m reminded of the marabi sound of Hugh Masekela, with the upfront brass of trumpet and saxophone. Yet you couldn’t pigeonhole this with a thousand words, it’s wholly unique. Female fronted by an energetic yogi, she somersaults the high stage projecting a mid-tone vocal range with unrivalled passion, encouraging her audience to follow the leader.

In delivery and posture I likened her to Bristol’s Mr Tea and the Minions, a band the guitarist said they knew when I harassed him afterwards, and you may recall from a Street Festival of yore. Although Mr Tea borrows extensively from Balkan ska to create carny-folk, the Cable Street Collective favour African rhythms to dress their overall pop festival soulful sound; such is the interesting melting pot of the contemporary UK festival circuit.

With subtle nods to North African fusion, from Congolese rhumba to soukous, to the more prominent dance music of South Africa ascended from township jive, you cannot go wrong if you desire to get your audience on their feet. And that’s just what happened in the Exchange, they broke a, likely, tougher audience than those at a festival like Boomtown, younger and aching to dance to an alarm clock! An hour before the finale the majority caved into the irresistible urge to dance perpetrated on a Kevin Bacon cuttin’ Footloose level.

This appeased the band no end, as the atmosphere switched, the collective raised the bar, breaking occasionally to lower the tempo for poignancy, it maintained its influences of West African artists like Zeke Manyika and Thomas Mapfumo. By doing as they did, it mellowed into something decidedly transatlantic steppers reggae; up my street and knocking loudly on my door. It was a notification there was a concentrated if light narrative in their original dance rhythms.

They never waived from their ethos of delivering an all original set, by slipping in a cheesy cover or ten. Surprisingly then, they made no attempt to wave merch in our faces. For their resilience in what’s a band’s bread and butter these days, I’ll drop their BandCamp link below, because if you were there or should you otherwise take heed of my words, The Cable Street Collective are uniquely sublime and beguiling, and this was a fantastic night full of energy and passion.

Think, if The Brand New Heavies were inspired by a safari, then asked to compose a theme tune for a Shambala Festival promotional film, you get an impression of how quirky and distinctively original they are. This said, their grand finale felt like their magnum opus, an engaging tune called the Wolf, and it was riddled with the familiar brass riff of Paul Simon’s Call Me Al. The guitarist I managed to catch for a quick word expressed a group devotion to their parents’ copies of Graceland, hence the influence, which in turn made me feel old; parents? I brought that album!

For the record I digress, fact is unlike much of the album, the Call Me Al brass riff is entirely synthesised. In comparison to the Cable Street Collective, where nothing is synthetic save perhaps a spacey moment or two backing track to create ambience, this Collective are cool as cucumbers, bongo bonkers poptastic, and engagingly original. I loved it!

Today Devizes Arts Festival has two free events. Rumour will be at the Three Crowns, from 2pm – 4pm. And the Annie Parker Trio at St John’s Church, from 7pm – 8:30pm. It continues through the week, check out the programme HERE, and treat yourself, it’s been a fantastic year so far.

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A View to a Thrill

“The Thrill of Love” at the Wharf Theatre by Ian Diddamsimages by Chris Watkins Media Just over a year ago, the Wharf theatre performed a…

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FullTone Festival’s Youth-Supporting Extra Day Announced

As if the FullTone Festival isn’t exciting enough for Devizes, the Town Council has allowed them an extra day, on the Friday 26th July…..

Seeing as everything should be set up and ready to roll for Saturday morning, it seemed a shame not to make use of this iconic stage and tech, so an extension to the festival has been added, with live music from 6pm, and it supports local youth talent.

Six: Teen Edition by Devizes Music Academy

Though FullTone stresses it does all depend on advance ticket sales, for both events. Tickets for the Friday on its own are £20, or £10 for under 18. If you buy your festival tickets together with the Friday you will receive a discount code for 20%, if you have already bought tickets for The Fulltone Festival, email jemma@fto.org.uk who will send you the code. The cut off date for this additional Friday is the 30th June, so make sure you’ve booked it by then.

Fulltone Festival 2023 Day Two

You should note, this fifth year of the Fulltone Music Festival will be the last one in its current form. I’ve personally had this contemplation for a while; as the FullTone Orchestra branches out, playing the cities and big towns, as it has been, surely it’s inevitable that the magic will rub-off with audiences further afield and they’ll come to Devizes for the festival if there are to be ones in the future; fingers, toes crossed. Spending their cash here on hotels, restaurants and shops is a great thing for the town, and reason enough to support it.

Talk in Code

But if my humble reasoning, and two days already sussed with guests like opera legend Carly Paoli, We Will Rock You star Kerry Ellis and Ricardo Afonso, indie popsters Talk in Code, a Beatles tribute and more orchestral concerts than Anthony can shake his shaky baton at, isn’t enough to entice you, note the Friday has local punker heroes Nothing Rhymes With Orange from 7pm, followed by Devizes Music Academy’s inaugural showcase Six: Teen Edition, replayed from sell-out dates at the Corn Exchange back in April.

Nothing Rhymes With Orange

I’m told the historical Gen Z party play performance, of which you can read about HERE, will have the same young cast as last time, Ruby Phipps, Amelie Smith, Jess Self, Kelsey Husband, Mia Jepson and Lisa Grime. Alongside Southampton Youth Orchestra opening the festival on the Sunday, we love that FullTone are giving young people a massive platform to perform at this, what could sadly be, the final Fulltone as it currently stands.

Six: Teen Edition by Devizes Music Academy

Obviously I think they should give me the last encore of the Sunday so I can perform my interpretation of Nessun Dorma in the style of Luciano Pavarotti, as I regularly do in the shower. But as its competence and calibre is largely debatable, usually by my kids trying to study in the next room and the neighbour’s howling dog, I will understand if they decline the offer. Imagine, if you will, as I can see it now, me on that colossal stage….. “Tramontate, stelle! Tramontate, stelle! All’alba vincerò, vincerò, vincerò!” Then, mic-drop, bath towel drop, whatever you think the ticket price is worth…..maybe, or no, perhaps just leave it to the professionals and keep this exclusively as a shower performance? It will, after all, be an amazing weekend without it, really!

Fulltone Festival 2023 – Day One

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REVIEW – Devizes Arts Festival – Lucy Porter + Support @ Corn Exchange  6th June 2024

Funny You Should Say That

Andy Fawthrop

And finally it was time to see the girl we’ve all been seeing on the poster for the past few months! 

Last night Devizes Arts Festival presented its comedy big-hitter, the radio and TV star Lucy Porter.  And D-Town responded with another packed audience.

Lucy Porter is a stand-up comedian, and a regular face and voice on TV and radio panel shows. She loves a good quiz show, appearing on a Pointless Celebrity Special with Ed Byrne and being victorious on Celebrity Mastermind. She’s also appeared in QI, Live at the Apollo, Room 101 and heard on BBC Radio 4’s News Quiz.

She handled the start of the first half last night by telling us (perhaps unwisely) that she’d never been to D-Town before, and therefore felt justified in playing back to us some of the research she’d managed to dig up.  This was fairly gentle, if predictable, shtick – poking fun at our “posh” neighbours in Marlborough, relating the Moonrakers story, and throwing in various remarks about the K&A canal, the Caen Hill Flight and something she referred to as the “canoe marathon”.  It was amusing, but not really hitting the target.  Once she put her notes down and started to extemporise a little more, the audience thawed considerably, and the evening began to improve.  Her key task here was to warm the audience up for her chosen support act, and to flag the themes she’d be covering in the second half.

So it was time to welcome Sharon Wanjohi to the stage.  She’s an up and coming stand-up comedian with a varied act ranging from shock to absurd comedy, and has already appeared at a number of festivals and on TV.  She’s clearly still learning her craft, but last night she managed to win over an audience that was slightly nervous of someone they weren’t expecting.

Her self-deprecating style, covering themes of personal awakening, both spiritual and sexual, gradually began to hit home.  Asking if there were any black people in the audience, indeed whether being black was even legal in D-Town, began to bring the laughs.  And her interaction with a certain audience member about being lesbian was truly hilarious.  Her set was slightly rambling and disconnected, funny but not hilarious.  But there was no doubting the great reception she received in response to her warm, and sometimes personal, story-telling, and her relaxed easy-going style.  I’d definitely file her under the “one to watch” category.

And then, finally, after a very long interval, we finally had the star of the show.  Wearing a changed top (“sparkly on top, comfy below” as she put it), we were treated to a master-class in gentle, apparently rambling associative comedy.  Picking up on the obvious demographic of the audience, she homed in on one audience member who was clearly younger than the rest, and making great show of “explaining” some of the gags and references (just in case no-one got the point).  She also picked up with Sharon Wanjohi’s interlocutor from the first half, a tactic that worked extremely well.

She hit some obvious targets for a Radio 4 audience – the menopause, the male mid-life crisis, the desire to retire, increasing health issues.  But she played these well, riffing on her hypochondriac relationship with her GP Margaret (the cancerous spot thast turned out to be Nutella), about doing R2 singalongs with the guys painting her house, and on her thoughts about the “development” of Paul Hollywood.  There was a wonderful pastiche of The Sound Of Music and, right at the end, a great punchline about paint involving the chorus of “Relax”.  There were plenty of anecdotes relating to her own general laziness, her long-standing drinking pals, and her tendency to be impulsive.  Her story of just “winging it” on a mistaken appearance with Melvyn Bragg was superb.

It was, for the most part, very clean and straight-forward stuff.  There was nothing that could be considered “edgy”, there was nothing political, and there was (amazingly) no swearing.  As such, it probably kept most of the audience in their comfort zone for most of the time, but it was no less hilarious for all of that.

Overall, it was a good night’s entertainment, although I expect there’ll be a LOT of people waking up on Friday morning realising that they now knew what a Gold Star Lesbian is.  Go figure!

There’s more information on Lucy at www.lucyporter.co.uk/

Another great night at the Arts Festival, and thanks (yet again) to DAF for bringing such top-notch entertainment to our little town. 

The Devizes Arts Festival continues until Sunday 16th June at various venues around the town. 

Tickets can be booked at Devizes Books or online at www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk 

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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?

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!

Have a good week!

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REVIEW – Devizes Arts Festival – Dr. Phil Hammond @ Corn Exchange  3rd June 2024

by Andy Fawthrop

The Doctor Will See You Now!

Devizes Arts Festival has already got off to a storming start over this last weekend, with performances on Friday from Jolly Roger, Saturday from Lady Nade, and on Sunday from Adam Alexander and Eddy Allen. Some of these we’ve already reviewed here.

So now it’s rolled round to Monday, and it’s time to head out into the first mid-week dates, with a whole variety of stuff to choose from.  Last night, and first up of the spoken word big hitters, it was the turn of Dr. Phil Hammond at The Corn Exchange.

I wasn’t sure if was a comment on the current difficulty of getting a GP appointment, but Dr. Phil’s waiting room was pretty full, with people eagerly awaiting a consultation with the famous doctor.

Phil is an NHS doctor, journalist, broadcaster, speaker, campaigner and comedian. He currently works at the Bath RUH in a specialist NHS team for young people with long Covid.  Born in the NHS (a slogan emblazoned on his t-shirt, and frequently referenced throughput the set), and brought up in Australia (the Ozzie twang was unmistakeable), he worked in general practice for over twenty years, and has also worked in sexual health. A familiar voice on BBC Radio 4, he has also presented five series of “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor” on BBC2, encouraging patients to be more involved, assertive and questioning. And finally (a major feather in his cap in my book) he’s also Private Eye’s medical correspondent, where he broke the story of the Bristol heart scandal in 1992.

Phil’s “surgery” consisted of two sets – “How To Fix The NHS”’ and “The Ins And Outs Of Pleasure”. 

The first half consisted of both commentary on the NHS, and Dr. Phil’s ideas on how it might be improved.  Using both his own and patient-generated ideas, the best of which was “force all MPs and Health Service professionals receive all their treatment in the worst-performing hospitals”, and plenty of enthusiastic audience participation, he addressed current issues in a positive light.  His key messages were “prevention rather than cure” (more investment needed upstream) and our individual responsibility for personal health.  His model, and mnemonic for the night was (of all things) CLANGERS, which provides daily prompts on healthy behaviour.  I might be making it sound a little dry, but it was very far from it.  He often had the audience in stitches (is this allowed? – Ed. Ed’s note; any passing tumbleweeds are your own responsibility, Andy!), with his “hierarchy of cricketing euphemisms” for death (“taken the short walk to the pavilion”), and a gob-smacking tale of “euthanasia by cling-film”. 

The delivery was fast, yet calm, with a take-no-prisoners attitude.  He was self-deprecating, often admitting to his own mistakes (predicting that Covid would cause less deaths than people falling down the stairs) and failures (pronouncing a patient to be dead, who subsequently turned out to be very much alive).  There were plenty of anecdotes from his times as a trainee and a junior whilst at Medical School, quite enough to shock the bejesus out of the audience.

If anything, the second half was even better.  Having posted a trigger warning that it would be quite a bit more graphic and near the bone, it did not disappoint.  “The Ins and Outs of Pleasure” did what it said on the tin, and addressed issues of sex, orgasms, masturbation and self-pleasuring.  The language was fruity and devoid of euphemism, and soon had the audience squirming with embarrassed nervous laughter.  Being a consummate professional performer, the doctor correctly “read the room” and sensing that he was perhaps pushing a Monday night audience in D-Town a little too far, very subtly applied the brakes to some of the tougher stuff.  Side-stepping his material via some more personal history, we were soon transitioned into the slightly safer territory of “consensual cannibalism”, the value of having a dog for good mental self-pleasuring, and the joy of “fuck-it Fridays”.  But there was still plenty of time on the side for useful medical advice on the use of cock-rings (get the ones with handles), and things not to put into human orifices.

The general prescription issued last night was for taking control of, and responsibility for, your own mental and physical health.  And my personal takeaway arrived almost at the end of the set– “laughter is the best medicine – unless you have syphilis, in which case penicillin is a better bet”.  Priceless.

A cracking night’s entertainment – informative, interesting, and absolutely hilarious.  Another great choice by DAF to bring such performing talent to our town.

If you’d like more info, you can find it at www.drphilhammond.com

The Devizes Arts Festival continues until Sunday 16th June at various venues around the town. 

Tickets can be booked at Devizes Books or online at www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk 

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Let’s Clean up Devizes!

You’ve got to love our CUDS, the Clean up Devizes Squad, hardworking volunteers who make the town look tidy and presentable. Here’s your chance…

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Land Ahoy! Jolly Roger Opens Devizes Arts Festival with Fire in the Hole!

Land ahoy me hearties! Devizes Corn Exchange was boarded last night by Cornish punk pirates Jolly Roger, for a frivolous and swashbuckling opening to Devizes Arts Festival; the face that launched a thousand ships was witness to it….

That’s me, if it wasn’t obvious, landlubbers, the face! For although it’s Devizine assemble, to bring you coverage of the forthcoming fortnight of music, comedy, talks and walks, for this splice of the mainbrace you lucky lot have got the toothless editor to shiver yer timbers. And blow me down, those buccaneers battened down the hatches and gave us a cheerful chantey carousel, at least, I liked it!

Under the ethos of what being a pirate in the 21st century means, Jolly Roger is precisely as claimed on the tin, and in that,  the balance between the punk element and shanties of yore will always be a debatable matter. I’d imagine a few elders in the audience favoured them leaning on folk, and a ragged old sailor spinning yarns under gentler rhythms. Yet while themes included pirate subjects and phrases, including Davy Jones’ locker, et al, and they practise audience participation diligently, Jolly Roger are contemporary, and punkish shenanigans offsets the balance. That’s the method I’d savour, and in this it was never cliché.

It was loud and sprightly unpretentious punkish tomfoolery with a pirate theme, yet, at times there was concentrated and thought-provoking narratives in their original material too. Euphoric tunes such as the most poignant Silent Mountain temporarily broke the frenzy, whereas characters like a bloke who props up the bar, conveyed this is a three sheets to the wind partying band to be taken tongue-in-cheek, but, dressed as pirates kinda gave that game away!

It’s not experimenting, rather pounding classic ground akin to Ferocious Dog, joyfully and professionally. For if Adam Ant broke the bitter reality hook of punk by incorporating fun subjects like pirates, native Americans or anything else he read about in Look-In, and folk blended a regional sound we affectionately dub scrumpy and western, here’s a dandy, and fun-filled fusion worthy of your attention. Think the Pouges-lite with a pasty and tricorne, for while there were a few expletives, it was hospitable enough to cater for open minded children of the festival.

Yet, it was a show perhaps best suited for a rowdy corner pub in a Cornish back lane, where the scent of salt air melds with that of wet dog hair carpet; such is our Arts Festival’s penchant for presenting us diversity, noteworthy when scanning the forthcoming programme. There’s something for everyone, it just needs everyone to take heed of this notion and throw away any preconceptions you may have about this wonderful occasion in Devizes. For instance, tonight Lady Nade arrives, an international act hailing from Bristol, who if you haven’t heard before, take it from me, her songwriting skills and soulful expression sublimely blesses Americana in something wholly unique and unmissable. So, tickets are on the door, don’t miss it!

As for Jolly Roger, well it was a superb performance and a grand opening for Devizes Arts Festival. Onlookers gazed at this fiery swashbuckling gang as their infectious jigs ordered them to break rank and jiggle. The band tour extensively across the UK festival circuit, do look out for them, with a telescope in the crow’s nest if necessary! These pirates of Penzance were a fire in the hole, excellently entertaining, me hearties!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 29th May 4th June 2024

Here’s what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week, heading in June, just like Terry!

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.

Wednesday 29th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Lunchtime Recital: Charlotte Spruit at Pound Arts, Corsham. Followed by Chris Wood.

Les Misérables – School Edition at the Athenæum, Warminster.

Tim Arnold – Super Connected at Chapel Arts, Bath. Edinburgh Previews, Pierre Novellie & Nic Sampson at The Rondo Theatre. Stone Cold Hustle at the Bell, Bath.

Toby Lee at Swindon Arts Centre. Seven Drunken Nights at The Wyvern Theatre.

Thursday 30th

Royal Bath & West Show opens.

Vintage Nostalgia Festival at Stockton Park opens.

Jam Night at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Invisible Creature Club, and Avalon Comedy Network: Glenn Moore, Eleanor Tiernan, Ben Pope & Farah Sharp at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Gary Stewart at Chapel Arts. SparkFest continues with A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Mission.

Let’s Swim, Get Swimming & Seneca at The Vic, Swindon. Steve Ferbrache at The Tuppenny. The Diana Ross Story at The Wyvern Theatre.

Friday 31st

A Cider & Mead Festival opens for the weekend at the Barge on HoneyStreet.

And so does the Devizes Arts Festival! Running from 31st May to 16th June, we’re looking at a busy month ahead with lots of entertaining events. The fun starts with Jolly Roger at the Corn Exchange. Trash Panda are at the Three Crowns.

All Floyd The Division Bell at Melksham Assembly Hall. Muuttley & Wet Franc play King George Park. 

Gem’s Pirate Party at the Civic, Trowbridge. The Exact Opposite, Ignotis and Bottle of Dog at the Pump, Trowbridge. Marty’s Fake Family at The Red Admiral. 

Bradford-on-Avon Music Festival all weekend in the park and various locations. Sad Dad Club at The Three Horseshoes. Manhattan Nights at The Boathouse. Bach Week: Quartetto di Cremona The Art of Fugue at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Blue Badge Bunch, and Ria Lina: Riawakening at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Untamed Burlesque at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Retro Electro at The Vic, Swindon. One Chord Wonders at The Queen’s Tap. Johannes Radebe 2024 – House of Jojo at The Wyvern Theatre.

Subgiant Weekender at The Baa, Salisbury.

Zion Train at the Tree House, Frome. Charlie Simpson from Busted DJ’s at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 1st

Rowde Summer Festival. 

Potterne Fete.

Top Secret: The Magic of Science at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes. Devizes Arts Festival has Lady Nade at the Corn Exchange, Ed’s pick of the week! The Duskers at The Southgate. 

Shambles Festival at King George V Park, Melksham.

Elcot Festival at Marlborough Town FC.

Open Mic at the Lamb, Trowbridge. The Future Sound of Trowbridge 10 at The Pump. NOASIS at the Civic.

Dennis Rollins’ Funky Funk at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Day two of the Bradford Music Festival, with an amazing lineup there.

Fraser Anderson Trio at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Diversity at the Vic, Swindon. The Beatles by Candlelight at The Wyvern Theatre.The Naughties at the Queen’s Tap.

John Bramwell & The Full Harmonic Trio at Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Lucas Hardy at The Kings Arms, Amesbury.

Sunday 2nd

Devizes Arts Festival has a Festival Walk: From Romans to Kangaroos. Adam Alexander – Seed Detective FREE FRINGE at the Peppermill. Eddy Allen – Solo Loop Show FREE FRINGE at the Cellar Bar. Jon Amor Trio with guest Tony Remy at The Southgate, Devizes.

Open mic at the Bell, Great Cheverell.

Open Mic at the Red Lion, Lacock.

A Strange New Space at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Louise Parker at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Speaking of Witch by Jack Lambert (Bath Fringe Festival 2024) at The Mission, Bath.

Tom Davis: Underdog at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Darren Hunt at the Queen’s Tap.

Monday 3rd

There’s a Food Bank movement to affordable school costs meeting in Devizes, see poster.

Dr. Phil Hammond – ‘How to Fix the NHS’ and ‘The Ins and Outs of Pleasure’ at the Corn Exchange, part of Devizes Arts Festival. 

Memory Café at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Tuesday 4th

Edward Cross Quintet at The Town Hall, part of Devizes Arts Festival. Mrs Churchill : My life with Winston ~ Liz Grand at the Corn Exchange.

Six The Musical opens at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, running until the 8th June.

Open Mic at The Royal Oak, Bath. The Valentine Letters by Steve Darlow (Bath Fringe Festival 2024) at The Mission, 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. Isn’t it high time you snapped up some tickets for the Devizes Arts Festival?

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!

Have a good week!

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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?

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!

Have a good week!

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Mantonfest 2024

Images: Gail Foster Whilst festivals around us come and go Mantonfest has been a constant of the Wiltshire music calendar since 2009….. The 29th of…

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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.

Sir Willard White

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. 

Jenny Eclair

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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Daisy Chapman Took Flight

Okay, so, if I praised the Bradford Roots Festival last weekend and claimed to have had a fantastic time, it’s all as true as Harrison…

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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? 

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!

Have a good week!

Trending…..

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Help DOCA Win Funding for the Confetti Battle

From carnival to the Winter Festival, DOCA stages so many great events in Devizes, most of them for free, but the most unique is the Confetti Battle. This year it’s coupled again with the Colour Rush, on Saturday 14th September. TicketSource are offering £1,000 to help fund a winning community event, all you have to do is click on this link, and vote for DOCA….

Devizes Confetti Battle has been happening since 1955, it is free to attend but not free to put on. People of all ages come and participate in a mock battle, throwing tons of confetti at each other, leading to a firework finale. It’s a lot of fun!

There are a lot of costs that come with this event. The cost of road closures and the big clean up afterwards. DOCA would use the money to help buy confetti supplies. It’s hard to get the event funded as it isn’t a traditional art or heritage event so this award would be a great help.

So, please click on this LINK to vote for them, it will take you seconds and costs nothing, ta!

Trending…..

White Horse Opera Mathieson Trust Fundraiser with Anup Biswas

White Horse Opera members, Soprano Barbara Gompels, Mezzo Soprano Paula Boyagis, Tenor Carlos Alonso together with pianist Tony James join forces with international cellist Anup Biswas for a special musical concert to raise money for the Mathieson Trust in Kolkata India which celebrates its  30th Anniversary…

The evening will take place on 15th June at Market Lavington Community Hall starting at 6pm with a home cooked Indian meal followed by a range of musical delights from opera to songs from the shows.

The Mathieson Music Trust – The Mathieson Mission School was established in 1994, by Maestro Anup Kumar Biswas, it is a registered charity and was set up in memory of his guru, Father Theodore Mathieson, an Anglican priest from England. Father Mathieson of the Oxford Mission dedicated his entire life to the poor children of Bengal. After Mathieson’s death in 1994, Mr Biswas became his torchbearer, aiming to emulate his work and morals by helping children from the poorest families.

Mr Biswas wanted to give the opportunities he received through Father Mathieson’s generosity, to other children coming from impoverished backgrounds like his own. For 30 years, Mr Biswas has singlehandedly fundraised globally for the trust through concerts, classes, workshops, and other such events. Some key performances were in the presence of the late Queen Elizabeth II of England and King Charles III; the venues Mr Biswas has performed in range from the Royal Albert Hall (UK), The Carnegie Hall (USA), Commonwealth Institute (UK) and the Bayreuth Opera House (Germany) to name a few. The funds raised from these events have paid for the construction of the school buildings and their maintenance, resources, and teaching of the children. 

White Horse Opera warmly invite you to join them in celebrating the anniversary of The Mathieson Music Trust and all its accomplishments in the last 30 years .

Donations will be gratefully accepted on the night but tickets are needed for numbers for catering purposes, they are available from  Devizes Books. For more information on White Horse Opera, Here.

Trending……

The Closing of Cooper Tyres

By T.B.D and D Rose for Devizine.The author can be reached at housetyg@gmail.com This month the historic Cooper Tires factory in Melksham which began the…

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!

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!

Have a good week, and don’t forget, the Devizes Arts Festival box office is open and waiting for you!

Trending…..

Waiting for M3G’s new Single…..

So yeah, I thought I’d be funny by commenting “can’t wait” on Chippenham’s upcoming folk singer-songwriter Meg’s Facebook post announcing her latest single, because, you…

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…

Viduals Release New Single

Is that ex still playing on your mind? It’s been an age, mate, but no amount of friends’ attempts to console you will help, or…

12 Bars Later Pop into The Badger Set

Must’ve been a sweaty August night last year at our trusty Southgate, when I turned up on the off chance, and staggered home mightily impressed…

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.

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!

Have a good week!

Trending….

Wiltshire Music Centre; Proper Job!

Devizes celebrated rum bar, The Muck & Dundar are hosting a dub reggae night with Omega Nebula on Saturday, and received this week’s prestigious award…

“Skylight” at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath, April 24th-27th.


by Ian Diddams
images by Jim McCauley & Bath Drama

Its 3 a.m. You are tired. You are still going round and round in circles in a discussion with a partner, lover, friend about a lover, their lover, a friend’s lover.

Sound familiar? Flashbacks? We have all been there – well, anybody that has any friends and has reached the age of eighteen anyway.

David Hare’s play “Skylight” is all so reminiscent of those long, dark tea times of the soul (to paraphrase Douglas Adams). Over the course of this riveting two and half hour play we are witness to the post match analysis of two ex-lovers (their …  “love” … briefly rekindled over the course of half time a.k.a. the interval) exploring their previous, illicit, relationship and the potential for the future.

The play opens, set in the mid-1990s in Kyra’s (Phoebe Fung) flat in Kensal Rise as she returns from work, as a teacher. It is an unglamorous property, and that is being kind. She is soon joined as a total surprise by Edward (Samuel Elliot), a confident eighteen-year old on his gap year. We learn that Edward has had an argument with his father, Tom (Jeremy Fowlds), and has moved out…  that Kyra was part of his family household for years. That his mother, Alice, had died. That Kyra had inexplicably left one day. Then a while after Edward has left, Tom arrives. It transpires Kyra and Tom haven’t seen each other for three years. Were ex-lovers. That Alice had found out. And so, Kyra left.

And the talking starts.

“Skylight” is fundamentally a triple duologue, a play in three parts over two acts. Kyra is on stage aside from brief periods out of sight in her bedroom for the entire play. Tom is on stage for much of that too. Edward has what may be called a cameo role by some but still has a hundred lines to deliver, over the prelude (as above) and an epilogue.

The play’s title is derived from a feature from the bedroom of the play’s fourth character that we never see, Alice, who was dieing of cancer. The bedroom’s sloping glass roof is the “Skylight” … and its existence sums up succinctly Tom’s perception of life. Tom is an extremely wealthy self-made restaurant owning businessman (allegedly modelled on Terence Conran) where life is smoothed by the presence of the “Yellow Pages” (remember that?). Everything can be paid for and that’s all that matters. Kyra once lived in this bubble of financial ease but now chooses a life of social fulfilment – passionately too.

And so, to the set. What a set! Hare once apparently said he doesn’t write plays set in a room but as the exception (?) that proves the rule this one is – it is quite literally a kitchen sink drama. All the action is in Kyra’s kitchen/diner/lounge. Anyone reading this that lived in cheap rented accommodation in the 1980s and 1990s will recognise it immediately. Peeling and patched wallpaper, mould on the walls, gas boiler safety certificate so old its ripped mostly off the boiler, scratched lino floor, rusty doored fridge-freezer, grubby paintwork. You can SMELL the lack of upkeep. Delve deeper into the flat and the attention to detail is superb. Mixed library of books from Freud to Shakespeare to Phillip K. Dick to Salinger to Verne. A working sink. Yes. You read that correctly… a WORKING sink. Water comes out of the taps. Goes down a plughole. And the pièce de resistance, the cooking hob. That works. And on which Kyra cooks, on stage, in real time, a spaghetti and sauce dinner. (Incidentally, it smells divine – do make sure you have eaten before you go and see the show because you will be feeling hungry if not!)


Full kudos must be given to the set designer here. Rich Canning, take a HUGE bow, along with your build crew.  You could give guided tours of this set. I WANTED to be able to see the bedroom. I WANTED to see the flat’s front walkway and stairs. Absolutely amazing.

Which brings me onto sound and lighting.  Once against at the Rondo, Alex Latham has pulled out all the stops. From the “whoomphing” gas boiler to traffic sounds as doors and windows are opened, to running baths, day turning to night turning to day. Another sublime performance in the tech box.

Andy Cork directs, assisted more than ably by Stephanie Richards who also produced the show. Andy’s program notes expand on this, but he has perfectly helped the cast capture the societal divide post-Thatcher, pre-Blair that resonates so much with contemporary Johnson/Truss/Sunak 2020s. So much so that if we were told this was set in 2024 it would be as valid, as meaningful. Possibly even more so. Social bigotry, monetary divide, I’m-all-right-jack, anti-woke, no-lives-matter.

This is all encapsulated in the plot and characterisation, expounded so brilliantly by Phoebe and Jeremy. Tom is one step from the “smelly homeless should be fined” brigade – if that far even. Kyra has a social conscience – or has developed one once freed of Tom’s wealth when she was much younger. And that is the crux of their non-relationship. Despite each other’s strong love for each other still it becomes increasingly clear there is no future. They are poles apart – at one stage I even thought “Why/How do these two even get on? Like each other?” They are the antithesis of each other’s perspectives. Tom crashes though life with a plan that is so focussed he has lost focus on everything else; while he had provided a “Skylight” for his dieing wife he is just Gaslighting constantly. And mainly himself. Maybe even only himself. Kyra has no plan, is drifting, but cares. Passionately cares. About social injustice and Tom’s obvious lack of social conscience. At one point as Kyra rages against the unfairness of society, I was struck by the Jonathan Pie-esque rhetoric, delivery… quite superb. And let’s not forget Samuel as Edward. Edward demonstrates another side of his family. The lost nephew almost for Kyra that arrives in the epilogue, so to speak, to raise Kyra’s spirits, to display tenderness.  Tom makes a point that he, Tom, genuinely GIVES because his gifts are without ulterior motives. But in reality, he is not giving at all, he is gifting. Whereas Edward is giving of himself…  such that he isn’t really even giving, he is sharing. A sweet portrayal by Samuel.

I could continue in similar vein for pages. I won’t though. The best thing would be for you, dear reader, to grab a ticket and get yourself to the Rondo and see this amazing show. See David Hare’s words come to life through Andy, Stephanie, Phoebe, Jeremy, Samuel, Alex, and Rich’s creativity. We are so blessed with great community theatre in Wiltshire and Bath, but this may well be the best show you see this year.

“Skylight” runs from April 24th to 27th at 1930 each evening at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall, Bath.

Tickets available from https://rondotheatre.co.uk/skylight/


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

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.

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!

Have a good week!

Trending…..

Snakebite Tune From The Dirty Smooth

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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 13th and May 18th, 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!!

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.

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!

Have a good week!

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Devizes Library Hopes To Start Lego Club

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PREVIEW – White Horse Opera’s Puccini’s “La Boheme”@ Lavington School, Devizes – Wednesday 10th, Friday 12th, and Saturday 13th April 2024

by Andy Fawthrop

A Sparkling Production

Last night I was privileged to sit in on the Dress Rehearsal for this wonderful production.  It was like having a private viewing of a great work of art, with a chance to see how it all came together, and to figure out what made the whole thing tick.  It was also a chance for cast and crew, together with Musical Director Roland Melia, and Stage Director Matt Dauncey to iron out any last-minute wrinkles.  There were a few but, as the song goes, too few to mention.  This show is absolutely ready to go live for the rest of the week!

Giacomo Puccini’s La Bohème is one of the most famous operas ever written, following the unforgettable story of two young bohemian lovers in Paris at the end of the 19th century. When young poet Rodolfo meets seamstress Mimì, it’s love at first sight. But, faced by the cruel realities of poverty and ill health, will the flame that burns between them flicker and die? Or will the timeless strength of their youthful passion withstand every trial and tribulation that life can throw at them? With a great love story comes a beautiful score, including arias like Musetta’s Waltz and ‘Yes, they call me Mimì’ (Si, mi chiamano Mimì).

A classic tale of tragic romance, La Bohème is a great opera for beginners and regulars alike. Director Matt had updated the setting to the 1960s, with fashion to match but, to me at least, it made little real difference to the superb quality of musical operatic delivery.  Using WHO’s trade-mark stripped back lines in terms of scenery backdrops, props, costumes and musical accompaniment, this was nevertheless a production that felt rich and full.

The four principals absolutely shone.  Guest tenor Robert Felstead (Rodolfo), and WHO stalwarts soprano Lisa House (Mimi), baritone Jon Paget (Marcello) and soprano Jess Phillips (Musetta) all put in superb performances.  And that’s not to diminish the quality of the rest of the cast in any way.  Contributions all round were spot on, and the staging was confident and upbeat.  The rapid interplay of dialogue singing during certain scenes meant that everyone had to be completely on their game and if there were any slip-ups I certainly didn’t spot them.

The whole production is sung in English in four acts, with a half-time interval. The programme provides excellent notes and a synopsis of the plot for each act, and the whole thing wraps up in about two hours.  These factors make the production accessible to all and easy to digest.  If you’ve not tried opera before, this is the sort of production that should change your mind, and I’d encourage anyone to give it a shot.  Equally those who are perhaps more familiar with the opera will not be disappointed, as what’s on offer here is a truly sparkling version of a classic.

Tickets are still available (both online and at Devizes Books) for performances tonight (Wednesday), and for Friday and Saturday.

Future WHO events:

Sat 18th May                       Top Of The Ops                                Seagrey, nr Chippenham

Fri 6th December              Christmas Concert                           St. Andrew’s Church, Devizes

2025 – La Belle Helene

More information on WHO is available HERE

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 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.

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.  

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!

Have a good week, One Love.

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“And Then There Were None” at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, April 8th-13th 2024


By Mick Brian.
Images by Chris Watkins Media


Mention the name of the author “Agatha Christie” and most people will immediately think of her two main detectives, Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. But Christie wrote more than just crime mysteries featuring these two characters …  her prolific creative palmares include many stories without these protagonists. Arguably her most famous such tale was published in 1939 with a title that it is unacceptable to use in these far more enlightened times. In 1985 in the UK that title was amended to “Ten little Indians”.


During World War II, she used that book to produce a stage play, named for the already re-named US title “And Then There Were None”. The book’s grisly ending was amended for this stage play, in an attempt, allegedly, to provide a lighter feel-good ending during the dark days of 1943, though later an alternative ending matching the book’s was written. Directors are free to choose whichever ending they wish…

Having read both the book and now the play, it must be said that the book stands up to scrutiny far better than the play does. There are some rather glaring oddities in the plotline of the play that just don’t withstand a very deep forensic review. One rather gets the impression Christie may have been asked by “somebody” to create the play as a matter of public levity at a sombre time in history, and do so quickly, and as such the play itself seems at times quite slapdash. Key areas of the book are omitted in the play or included in one ending and not the other.

That all said the story is a rollicking one, fast paced and leaves the audience guessing right until the very end (unless they have seen the play, or films, or read the book of course!). And I must stress that the limitations of the play itself as above do not reduce the impact or the Wharf’s performances one iota. The pace is so frenetic that any possible plot oddities probably pass unnoticed as the audience is taken on the roller coaster ride of ten people on a secluded island all being murdered one by one by an unknown assassin.

Rose Fitter’s direction, ably assisted by John Winterton as assistant director and the Wharf’s excellent tech crew have created two and quarter hours of gut churning intrigue and suspense. Costumes by Gill Barnes and her team are totally spot on for a 1939 house party of “rich folks”, waited on by two domestic staff. The set is a classic one room country house murder mystery replete – of course – with “ten little solder boys” and their poem quite rightly literally taking centre stage. There are some lovely, clever stage management touches (Beth Ramsay) throughout the show but to let on here would spoil the impact of them …

The cast of eleven deliver Christie’s lines with panache, aplomb, and tempo. And what a cast! Many familiar faces to Wharf regulars mixed with a new face or two. I shan’t go into details of each cast member here because this review would become “War and Peace” length, but its is more than fair to say that each and every character is fully believable, from obstreperous boatman to deferential staff, hardened and cynical, or repentant, ex-army and ex-police officers, naïve secretary, puerile playboy, quasi-evangelical bigot, stressed doctor and sardonic judge.

The dress rehearsal wasn’t devoid of a couple of slips but given the high pace and quick-fire interactions of the script in a community production that is maybe understandable.

What is thoroughly commendable is that three characters – Claythorne, Lombard and Blore – between them have 60% of all the lines in the play, and with Wargrave 70%.

Not that this diminishes the rest of the cast – the performance thrives as mentioned above on the superb characterisations displayed by everybody involved and the acting displayed is absolutely top notch. The wharf’s own intimacy aligns itself particularly well as usual – those in the front row particularly are literally just inches from mayhem, arguments, and corpses!

Finally to that ending…  as the opening paragraphs mention there are two endings available for this play. So, which is it that this performance uses? Well…  you’ll have to come along and see it to find out! But on that note – this run of six nights is sold out, so if you have a ticket, you are in for treat. If you didn’t manage to procure one there is always the chance of a return but after all…  with regards to tickets…

And Then There Were None…

CAST
Narracott                          Frank Jones
Mrs. Rogers                     Carolyn Miles
Rogers                               Chris Smith
Vera Claythorne            Anna Leyden
Lombard                           Paul Snook
Marston                             Fraser Normington
Blore                                   Ian Diddams
Mackenzie                        Steve Keyes
Emily Brent                      Sian Stables
Wargrave                           Pete Wallis
Dr. Armstrong                Julie Atkinson-Baker

“And Then There Were None” is performed at 1930 each evening Monday 8th April to Saturday 13th April 2024 at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes.

Trending….

Six:Teen Edition: Devizes Music Academy’s First Show!

Devizes Music Academy brings us Six: Teen Edition This Saturday, and we wish all the young performers the very best of luck!

So, I find myself chatting with Jemma Brown, who, if you live in Devizes but don’t know, you don’t get out much! With husband Anthony, they’re the brainchild of drama group The Invitation Theatre Company, and FullTone, our homegrown orchestra which has thrilled audiences from Marlborough College to Bath Abbey and beyond, yet annually return to town to stage the most breathtaking FullTone Festival….but there’s a new style of show heading our way this Saturday 6th April…..

Jemma has brought together a phenomenal team under the Devizes Music Academy banner, a school of performing arts she has run for the past two years, and their phenomenal cast of young people, to bring an historical masterpiece to the stage in the centre of Devizes this weekend. Six:Teen Edition is a full-length adaptation of Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss’ Six, modified for performance by teen actors for family audiences.

Six was created and written by Marlow and Moss. What began as a one-off student production staged at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2017 has gone on to be staged professionally, and is currently seen on stages in London’s West End, on Broadway and on tours across the UK, Australia, New Zealand, North America, and now…..(insert drum roll here) ….Devizes!!!

Twenty local 13-19 year olds will be smashing their way through the stories of the lives of Katherine of Aragon (Ruby Phipps), Anne Boleyn (Amelie Smith), Jane Seymour (Jess Self), Anne of Cleves (Kelsey Husband), Catherine Howard (Mia Jepson) and Kateryn (that’s how you spell it!) Parr (Lisa Grime), with 14 Ladies in Waiting in support – and promises to be quite something. 

Think our young people can’t pull off a show of this magnitude? Think again! Jemma said “we’ve spent the week absolutely drilling this show in full scale all day rehearsals – the voices of the six queens are off the scale and the entire attitude towards the production from all the performers has blown us away. We have full on tech from the best team (Patch Productions) coming in and quite literally are bringing the West End to the West Country! The music, the story telling, the dancing, the total and pure emotion of the songs, both in hilarity and devastation, rivals adult productions – fact. I can’t quite believe we’re doing it and that the young performers themselves have pulled off such a fantastic end result. It’s very very exciting!”

It’s on at Devizes Corn Exchange for one day only – Saturday 6th April, but there’s two showtimes, 2:30pm and 7:30pm. The strapline asks, would “Henry VIII approve of this show?! When you see SIX, we’re pretty sure you’ll all be in agreement….who cares?!” Devzine wishes Jemma and all the youths performing, we know a few from previous performances, all the very best with this amazing sounding show, and I’m certain, no one will need their heads chopped off!

We fully agree with Jemma when she expressed, “supporting young talent is so important, because encouraging kids to put themselves out there is a fantastic thing and…..you might be surprised just how much you enjoy this gem of a show!”

Tickets are from Devizes Books priced £15/£20; or online HERE.

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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

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 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.

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.  

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!

Trending…..

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Swindon Celtic folk at it’s finest, Anish Harrison and Neil Mercer smash it again, this one is sublime, it’s called Wild, no spoilers, just listen,…

Ed Byrne: Tragedy Plus Time

SYNDICATED INTERVIEW By Jason Barlow Images: Roslyn Gaunt Is there no end to the man’s talents? A staple of revered panel show Mock the Week,…

Song of the Week: Meg

Chippenham’s folk singer-songwriter Meg gets our early song of the week this week, and The Cycle is only her debut single…. I’ve spoken twice to…

Atari Pilot are Waiting for the Summer

Kempston joystick! There’s a new single from Swindon’s sonic indie-rock blasters Atari Pilot, and it seems they’re waiting for the summer to fall. Hint, guys,…

Don’t Give Up Now, Ruby Darbyshire

As discoveries of young local talent never seem to wane here at Devizine, here’s one with a difference, we’ve not featured yet; you may have…

So Excited…. Devizes Musical Theatre’s Sister Act at Dauntsey’s

An exodus of musical lovers and, I’d assume, a healthy handful of friends and family, trekked southwards through winter’s final ambush last night, to enjoy the opening night of a dazzling performance of Sister Act at Dauntsey’s…..

It was presented by the established local amateur dramatics group, Devizes Musical Theatre. I stress my usage of the word amateur in its foremost dictionary definition; the opposite of professional. The second connotation it was in some way inept couldn’t be further from the truth in this case. A common misconception in creative arts, I find, whereby those in it for the love thrust their hearts, soul, and elbow grease into it, more so than a pro going through the motions for their paycheck. The result usually is perhaps something raw, but highly entertaining and enjoyable, and their production certainly was the latter.

The run ends on Saturday (30th March,) at the last count just fourteen tickets remained, so I advise you to be quick, and lucky, to pick some up. It’s a large hall, selling it out proves the grand reputation Devizes Musical Theatre has built locally, this performance hits their pedestal.

With a debatable focus on the singing rather than acting, the benchmark of a good musical, surely, there’s some show-stopping moments. Georgia Watson makes the perfect diva Deloris, and there’s both astounding vocals and comic timing from Louise Peak as Mother Superior and Barry Gibney, who plays the socially awkward police chief Eddie. Particularly noteworthy is Grace Sheridan who plays Sister Mary Robert, in song and conviction of the influence Deloris holds over the convent.

Yet high accolades go out to all the actors, stage directors and team; Adam Sturges, Oli Beech and Simon Hoy as the mobsters, Gareth Lloyd as mafia boss Curtis, Graham Day as Monsignor O’Hara and the huge backing of those wonderful singing nuns! It is the combination of their motivation and exceptional effort which makes this such a dynamic show, coupled with the elementary notion, Sister Act has universal appeal and is simply fun on a stick!

In critical reflection, the musical concludes somewhat differently from the movie. Without spoilers, the amusing scene where Deloris prays for God’s forgiveness unto the mobsters holding a gun to her head, causing them to question their ability to shoot her, wrongly perceiving her as a nun, is replaced by a more slapstick finale akin to a Benny Hill chase scene. Yet on further consideration into my rather geeky complaint, I guess this works better on stage, such is the jollification of a musical, often bordering pantomime. And it wraps it up faster, allowing more time for these astute and timeless Motownesque songs. Devizes Musical Theatre use this to their advantage; you certainly get your money’s worth.

Veils off to first time director Emily Holmes, and musical director Naomi Ibbetson for an apt and fantastic show, which will send you off thoroughly entertained, and with a smile.

Trending……

Some Work Experience At The Southgate!

Not as the title might suggest…. Since I peaked too soon over the bank holiday, coupled with working it, yeah, I sadly missed Monday’s entertainment…

Song of the Week: Becky Lawrence

Song of the week, on a Saturday, yeah I know, but this one’s just been released yesterday, and I’m a little behind, and opening myself…

20’s Plenty Says Devizes Town Councillors

Let’s face facts, they’re not referring to their average age here, are they?! Today’s topic is belting through town like a headless chicken escaping Colonel…

Devizes to Falafel Out Loud!

Here’s a Devizes foodie top secret I’m about to spill the chickpeas about; Anya of that delicious kitchen in the Shambles, Soupchick is launching a…

As Sweet as HoneyFest!

Imagine, it’s only just eight pm on the opening day of Honey-Fest at the legendary Barge on HoneyStreet, and the haystack-filled marquee is already positively…

Meg at The Neeld in Chippenham 

Yeah I know, those Nothing Rhymes With Orange lads were pepping up the Crown in Devizes for a Fantasy Radio live lounge last night, and…

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.

Be Like Will

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. 

Junkyard Dogs

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.

Thieves

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 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.

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!

Tell Us About Your Event

Please make sure we’ve not already picked it up and listed it before submitting, it saves me a lot of time; thank you!

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!!

Trending….

Song of the Week: Paul Lappin

Another wonderful nugget of lonely contemplation from the chillaxed Britpop kahuna, Paul Lappin, formerly of Swindon now residing in the South of France. Unfortunately You…

All Aboard for Imberbus on Saturday !

Since sending out our last Imberbus email earlier this week, we have had several new subscribers to our mailing list, partly due to some advance…

Dylan Smith: Cruel to be Kind

Yeah, the title of Dylan’s debut album, Cruel to be Kind could be an insight into how we conduct our reviews, but being as I…

Devizes Arts Festival Reveal Full Line-Up for 2024

After a larger quantity of social media teasers than previous years, Devizes Arts Festival has today revealed their full line-up for 2024. Better take a peaky sneaky gander at it, keep in their good books, because it looks rather special! Based on previous experience they usually range from pretty awesome to super-duper lights are gonna find me awesome…so here goes……

The festival runs from Friday 31st May to Sunday 16th June, and never fails to bring us a diverse programme of separate events within the arts, music and theatre, but also takes in talks and walks. Some come with a worthy price tag, but there’s lots of free fringe events also. All it takes is for you to support it.

I don’t know about you, but the first one I got excited about when I heard, was Bristol’s soulful indie-folk singer-songstress Lady Nade, who plays the Corn Exchange on Saturday 1st June. I put this Lady on my must-see list after fondly reviewing her album Willing back in 2021. I’ve not yet had the opportunity to see her live. Yet it is not for that reason I’m grateful to the Arts Festival for booking Lady Nade, rather in contemplation of the elevated sentimentality channelled through her Americana-fuelled songs.

I summed up the album at the time, with “written during the pandemic, there’s a secluded ambience echoing through these eleven sublime three-minute plus stories of friendship, love and loneliness lost and found, reflecting the fact it was recorded in multiple studios and engineered by all the musicians in isolation. Yet to hear it will hold you spellbound in a single place, till its conclusion.”

If that doesn’t tempt you I don’t know what will! But Lady Nade is not before a high-energy Penzance sea-punk grand opening to the festival, with Golden Gnome award winning Jolly Roger, at the Corn Exchange on Friday 31st May; blistering barnacles, Captain Haddock, that sure sounds like some swashbuckling shenanigans.

History of Market Lavington, anyone? Sunday 2nd has a festival walk, followed by the first two free fringe events, consummate story-teller Adam Alexander’s Seed Detective at The Peppermill from 2pm, and a solo loop pedal show with Eddy Allen, 7pm at the Cellar Bar.

Likely the best known name on the roster, comedian Lucy Porter comes to Devizes on Thursday 6th June, and I’m sure you’re all aware of her distinctive, bouncy, feel-good comedy from TV and radio panel shows, and being victorious on Celebrity Mastermind.

Lucy Porter

Prior to this headliner, NHS doctor, journalist, broadcaster, speaker, campaigner and comedian Dr Phil Hammond on Monday 3rd June presents ‘How to Fix the NHS’ and ‘The Ins and Outs of Pleasure…’ I’ve my own suggestions on the subject, don’t get me started, but maybe add Prime Minister to Phil’s already impressive résumé!

Wiltshire based multi‐instrumentalist, the Edward Cross Quintet at the Assembly Rooms on Tuesday 4th June. Liz Grand’s superb, funny, moving, sensitive and informative portrayal of Clementine Churchill, also on Tuesday at the Merchant Suite.

Wednesday 5th June sees English naturalist, ecologist, author and broadcaster Mike Dilger, known as the wildlife reporter on The One Show, doing a talk on One Thousand Shades of Green, his quest to find 1000 different British plants in a calendar year and assess how our flora is faring in modern Britain. Geneticist, author and broadcaster, Adam Rutherford, who frequently appears on science programmes on both radio and TV, also gives an engaging, provocative and informative talk the Arts Festival promises to be unmissable.

Hollie McNish. Image: Kat Gollock

Poet and author Hollie McNish presents her Lobster Tour on Thursday 6th June at the Town Hall; I’m just chatting about her with the legend who is Kieran J Moore, seems Hollie played Bath Komedia recently, he recommends, and you can’t get a better local recommendation than that. 

The weekend sees a blues, skiffle, calypso and rockabilly mesh, apparently with a sweeping vaudeville twist, which sounds like a beguiling and exhaustive blend I must say! Jo Carley and the Old Dry Skulls are at the Corn Exchange Friday 7th June.

Jo Carley and the Old Dry Skulls

London’s Cable Street Collective headline Saturday, an intriguing one, their sound mixes African-influenced guitars and beats with soulful female vocals, socially conscious lyrics and western melodies, creating an idiosyncratic alt-pop sound that’s all their own.

Sunday 9th June sees a Festival Walk into the West Woods; Sarsens, Soldiers and Sawpits. Two free fringe events, an Americana band from West Midlands called Rumour, from 2pm at the Three Crowns, and a fresh and lively approach to jazz at St John’s Church from 7pm with the Annie Parker Trio.

The final week of the festival sees world-renowned concert pianist, Ida Pellicciolo on Monday 10th June at the Town Hall. Belinda Kirk, world-record holding explorer, researcher and a leading campaigner promoting the benefits of adventure on wellbeing, talks at the Town Hall on Tuesday, along with intrepid Antarctic explorer Tom Crean’s story brought to life in a dramatic and humorous solo performance by Aidan Dooley from Play On Words Theatre Company, at the Wharf Theatre.

Two best-selling Wiltshire-based authors, Kate Webb and Jon Stock, discuss their craft at The Peppermill Hotel on Wednesday 12th June, and there’s a remarkable intimate solo guitar performance from Martin Simpson at the Corn Exchange.

Duo Tutti, a classically-trained flutist and pianist duo who combine well-known classical tunes with interesting sounds to create a unique concert that is accessible to all, at the Town Hall on Thursday. Terry Quinney’s Sound Of Blue Note accurately recreates jazz and the aesthetics which defines Blue Note Records, also on Thursday 13th June at the Town Hall.

Friday 14th June there’s an organ recital at St John’s with award-winning organist and conductor Huw Williams, and we have the intriguingly titled Slambovian Circus of Dreams at the Corn Exchange, an electrifying live performance of moody but upbeat alt-roots rock.

The final Saturday of the Arts Festival, 15th June, we have something altogether different, hypnotist Matt Hale presents an 80s Spectacular, where Matt promises to have you partying like it’s 1985, humm, whether you like it or not. I’m not sure about hypnotists, I might stand at the back!

Matt Hale. Image: DG-Imagery-3

Soulful and electrifying rhythm and blues band The Junco Shakers at the The British Lion on

Sunday 16th June at 2pm, and Clive Oseman and Nick Lovell, creators of Oooh Beehive, the number one spoken word and poetry open-mic night in Swindon, have a Wham! Bam! Poetry Slam 6pm at The Wharf Theatre; two free fringe events polishing off another spectacular Devizes Arts Festival. 

Box Office is now open, details and tickets HERE, hope to see you there! 

Trending……

Michelle Donelan Out of the Chicken Run for New Devizes-Melksham Constituency, But What Difference Will These Changes Mean?

So, the Boundary Commission for England’s final recommendations for new Parliamentary constituencies, which carves the Devizes constituency into three unequal parts, was submitted to the House of Commons for their perusal in June, and it’s time for MPs to scramble for the safest seats, which Westminster dubs “the chicken run.” But what, at great taxpayer’s…

Junkyard Dogs are Let off Their Leashes

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Beyond Chippenham Streets

It’s the second exhibition at Chippenham pop artist Si Griffiths’s Forbidden Carnival gallery, and if the previous was an overall of the curiosities of alternative art we can expect to see there, this has a more specific theme of street art and graffiti…. It’s been a long rocky road for graffiti to be accepted by…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 9th – 15th August 2023

Don’t hold your breath, but is … .is…is that summer…. coming? Ah, here’s what we’ve found this coming week to do in wonderful Wiltshire….. Usual gubbing, all the info and ticket links are on our jam packed event calendar, HERE, and you can plan ahead too. Any updates after today will also be put on…

¡Viva La Devizes Salsa; Eso!

Looking back over the years of Devizine, I’ve engaged myself with more ‘loco’ undertakings than I care to count, things I wouldn’t have otherwise considered attempting; all part of the fun. More often than not I come away thinking it was alright, but seldom follow it up with a burning desire to continue, it’s sadly…

The Fulltone Music Festival – Wiltshire’s Own Iconic Festival in its Own Words, with Additional Waffling From Me!

Introducing the rising star of the south west music scene – The Fulltone Orchestra. This dynamic ensemble comprises a rotation of over 90 exceptionally talented musicians from across the region, led by fantastic musical director, Anthony Brown. Their performances are nothing short of extraordinary, defying genres and taking audiences on a captivating musical journey ………

When William the Conqueror Came to Marlborough

By Florence Lee William the Conqueror might not be a band known by everyone, but quite simply should be. With Ruarri Joseph on vocals and guitar, Naomi Holmes on bass and vocals and Harry Harding on drums and vocals, their heavenly harmonies, beautiful music and captivating performance quite literally conquered all expectations the audience walked…

Atari Pilot New Single

A drifting retrospection of sonic electronica new wave from Swindon’s purveyors of cool, Atari Pilot, is out today. A single with a Peter Pan fashioned postulation anyone within their target audience would surely identify with, despite the title sounds a bit too mathematical! If 4x /22 equals 88 back in class, rather this tune refers…

Chloe Jordan to Play the Southgate on Saturday

Who recalls schooldays when you had a relief teacher, and well, they were a bit naff, didn’t have a scooby-doo what was what, and generally allowed you to stare aimlessly out of the window, or fill your rough book with doodles?! This is not the case with our Southgate, who, due to the cancellation of…

The Lucky Stars of The Radio Makers

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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. 

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.

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. 

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!

Have a good week!

Trending…….

Devizes Scooter Rally 2023

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Devizes Scooter Rally Revs Up

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Subject A Takes us to Paradise

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Don’t Impress Them Much, Online Rants at Glastonbury Line-Up!

Image: Czampal

I’m laughing, not at the Glasto lineup, but the incalculable comments of negativity it has encouraged in Facebookland. It should be said though, most disapproving remarks appear on shares of the post and not the original, and most of them were posted this morning when most ticketholders are likely at work, funding their forthcoming adventure to Pilton. Now they’re homebound, online anticipation and positivity has risen above the seething armchair critiques……

Then there is this ‘old photographs of Wiltshire’ Facebook group I recently joined, where a picture of the Barge at Honey Street was posted today with the caption, “The Barge at Honey Street, near Pewsey.” Some aging, caps-lock permanently stuck on gammon responded, “IT IS NOT PEWSEY IT IS HONEY STREET!”

If caps-lock usually implies angered shouting, and the nearest large village to Honey Street is Pewsey, perhaps it suggests how nonsensically negative and overreactive your average Facebooker has become, and how much it exists for aimlessly irritated and amateur critics to vent their general disgust over first world problems. It says more about them and the tenet of Facebook than the thing they’re mocking. This much ado about nothing is amusing though, that’s why I like this particular social media platform….

Glastonbury Festival released their main lineup poster today, and my gut reaction was similar to the priceless online onslaught of negativity in the comments. Being honest, it’s not inane, it’s not the best lineup we’ve seen, but I restrained myself from passing comment, considering it’s an age test; the older you get the less headliners you should expect to know at an event self-professed to be a festival of “contemporary” performing arts. No one online considered it might not be Glastonbury which has the problem!

And secondly, for the simple reason I’m not going anyway, and haven’t attended for twenty-four years. I wonder how many of those feeding negative comments to the pitchfork assembly are going themselves. I hope and pray it’s not many, for Glastonbury is not the place for decomposing strident and pessimistic cynics…. like me, for example!

Glastonbury is and will always be an experience, you go to Glastonbury for going to Glastonbury, not whoever happens to be on a stage you’re passing. Yeah, it’s held some massive names in the past, pre-broken Brexit Britain, but does anyone commenting have an inkling how much and how hard it is to organise something on this scale? How much work goes on behind the scenes? Far more than typing your grievance in a text box, rest assured.

I can now count the acts I’ve heard of on the annual Glastonbury poster on my fingers, even less ones I’d actually like to see, this lessens with every year Father Time takes from me, it’s an old dog new tricks scenario; I’m content with shit happens. Most of the names I’ve heard of are through my daughter’s playlist, with a sprinkling of classics like Cyndi Lauper, to whet the appetite of grumpy old bastards who might yet turn up; it’ll all come off in the wash!

I shouldn’t scratch my Uncle Albert beard and tediously spin a yarn of how I once failed to see the Mad Professor at the dance tent because of my genius navigation past the Pyramid Stage while Pulp was playing. A band who, being I was a ‘raver’ and they were ‘indie’ I wouldn’t usually beeline, but finding myself unable to gorge further through the masses, was forced to watch them, and forever became a fan through unexpected circumstance. But if I did, it would surely serve a purpose to illustrate a tale of the unexpected. Digest new things, you never know till you try. To moan this act doesn’t suit your whim is to misunderstand the concept of Glastonbury, or festivals in general. You need to open your eyes and ears to new things not just relish in the nostalgic era of your individual youth. But more importantly, the arts and entertainment industry at its knees, need you to do this more than ever before.

Yet, in this ocean of boiling ageist whimpering which is the comment section on Glastonbury’s Facebook lineup post, which one could summarise as a multitude of disgruntled whingers unlikely to even attend, who cannot accept they’re past it and are whinging for the sake of whinging, one gen-z’s unintentionally amusing comment reversed the status quo, by calling the lineup, “a load of old dinosaurs!” (Assuming they meant the acts listed and not the other commenters!) They win the internet today for standing against the grain, still bleating bollocks, but for precisely the opposite reason to everyone else, thus proving if you can’t satisfy everyone, why bother trying with anyone? Who the heck is SZA and how did they get listed above PJ Harvey? I might have to sacrifice a cute furry pet over this atrocity!

Though, in this, you should note the universal appeal Glastonbury promotes and always has. I recall the nineties when attendees foamed from the mouth at the thought Robbie Williams got up there to do his thing; youth today would hail this classic, as they would’ve done for Led Zeppelin. Because should a change of tide wipe you out or this upset you, there’s a billion retro festivals, eighties nights, tribute acts, et al, which are more niche, and likely kinder on your wallet too. Maybe take some time to research them rather than jump a bandwagon?

Yep, if Shania Twain is the calibre of Elton John or Springsteen now, a tear will undoubtedly trickle down my wrinkled cheek, but it is not my cheek Glastonbury needs to appease, neither is it the witch hunt of unsatisfied grumpy old keyboard warriors. Key here is the simple notion; Glastonbury is so much more than a main stage and congested campsite. Don’t fuss over mainstream or contemporary things if they’re only going to engulf you in flames of irritation, think of your blood pressure.

No buddy, saunter them there Somerset fields and find the bizarre, outlandish, the upcoming, the amateur, the underground, then, and only then will you understand the true ethos of Glastonbury.

Or simply retire, watch it on the telebox; you can fast forward. With a cardboard cup of Lidl cider, and undercooked hotdog. Stay home where you can take a piss behind the sofa without queuing, and maybe start a blog where, like me, you can hypocritically rant your niggles without spoiling a Facebook post! What have we becomeeeee?!

Trending….

“RENT” at The Rondo Theatre, Bath, March 13th-16th 2024

Ian Diddams

Written by Jonathan Larson
Presented by Maple Theatre Company

It’s always hard reviewing a show that one has seen multiple times before, performed by differing companies. It’s also hard reviewing a show that is one of one’s favourite shows EVAH. And if that wasn’t hard enough…  Its far too hard to review a show that one has performed in oneself. It’s wrong to compare – its unfair and meaningless…  differing companies, differing directors, differing theatres.  So, ignoring the seven other productions I’ve seen including the one I bummed around in (quite literally – if you know you know) ….  Here goes…..


For those that know the story of “RENT” – you can skip this paragraph. Otherwise, Jonathan Larson’s story – a glorious homage to Puccini’s “La Boheme” – revolves around a group of bohemians in the lower east side of New York City and deals with topics such as homelessness, drug addiction, betrayal, and AIDS… as well as love, friendship, recovery, and hope. All wrapped up with a stunning score of often poignant, sometimes funny, always beautiful singing with six-part harmonies. If you want to know more …  duck go go is your friend as ever.

RENT on stage is usually set in a quasi-industrial area – and Maple Theatre Company don’t buck that trend (I doubt RENT heads would allow it to be honest!). Scaffolding creates multiple levels which are used excellently throughout the show and frames several areas for the action. ON stage props and setting is minimal, but I raise my hat to the wonderful use of moveable music flight cases with wooden tops that represent beds, side tables and THE cafe table (if you know, you know). Quite brilliant also was the use of 40-gallon steel oil drums …  where “drums” covers two definitions of that word.  Chapeau to Luke Hocket, set designer (who also produced the show) and his set team of Tom Courtier and Milly Hayward.

Directing a show like “RENT” is no easy task (not as hard as reviewing it obviously 😉) as the show is basically “the same” whoever does it (as it is so iconic – maybe after 400 years, like Shakespeare, some aspects will be changed, and we will get a RENT set on a spaceship …)  but Dionna Kate-Hargreaves set her own stamp on it in subtly brilliant ways. I mentioned the use of multiple levels already but the piece de resistance of the show is in many ways …  the drumming.  (If you know you know).

And speaking of drumming that brings us to the music – a six-piece band led by MD Kris Nock rocked out the show hidden subtly off stage but in full view (once you know, you know). I wonder if Kris’ toughest task (not as arduous as reviewing obviously) was teaching three actors to hit a large piece of metal in time with two sticks for some considerable time (if you know, you know).


Tech is as ever hidden away where no one can see them up in the attic of the Rondo, and technical director Tom Courtier and his crew slid their sliders and pushed their buttons and  lit their lights to full effect. (I’ve got a deep and meaningful understanding of tech). Rule number one in a theatre is never hack off the tech guys – they have hammers, and saws, and unlimited access to 240v at all times (if you know, you know) so – GREAT WORK GUYS!!!

That’s about it then. Set, Tech, props, direction, music.  Yup. That’ll do.


Ah.

Yes.  That lot that cavorts upon the stage.  Nearly forgot them. Starting with cavorting…  choreographer and dance captain Grace Egginton and Grace Shobbrook whipped the cast into a frenzy of whirling limbs when they weren’t singing.  And often when they were come to that. It must be said the Rondo’s stage is quite….  Bijou… particularly when by necessity a good half of it is taken up by aluminium scaffolding poles that don’t bend if you collide with them (if you know, you know) so the tightness of choreography is impressive.

And so – the cast. I’ve used the line about “strutting and fretting his hour upon the stage” before so I won’t use it again.  Ooops.

It takes a dedicated cast to work “RENT” – it is emotionally draining (if you know, you know), taking its toll on the actors’ own emotions. And this cast did Jonathan Larson proud. The ensemble – they always get listed last so here they are first cos that’s important (if you know, you know) so bravo Daisy Wilson, Morgan Hames, Georgi pepper, Steven Hockett, Jasmine Lye, Sophie smith, Milly Haywood, and Sarah Easterbrook…  All of whom also starred in the all-important cameo parts that just make “RENT” simply “work”. Special mention must be made though for Jasmine, who stepped up to play the role of the harassed waiter in the café scene due to cast unavailability this evening.  Cometh the hour, cometh the Jas!

I suppose that leaves the principals. *sigh*.  OK. Well…  ummm…  errr…

Well in all honesty they weren’t good. Nope. Not at all.

THEY WERE BELTING!!!  FANTASTIC!!!  MAGNIFICENT!!!

and other superlatives.

In no particular order…  Bryan Houce played Mark…  his portrayal got stronger and stronger throughout the performance as the middle-class wannabe with no confidence (that’s Mark – not Bryan!). Mimi was played superbly by Grace Egginton who quite rightly as a choreographer played the part of a striptease dancer very well.  (Hmmm…  that maybe came out a bit wrong?) 😉Roger Davis, all angst, and anger was quite phenomenal played by Josh Phillips.  Absolutely fantastic. Liberty Williams probably stole the show for “most likely to break a wine glass at forty feet” with her incredible top note harmonising as Joanne, and Naomi Marie as Benny (déjà vu here – if you know, you know) as the brooding, mean turncoat-comes-good ex-flatmate.

If I appear to be rushing through these principals, it’s because I could write war and peace about them otherwise. Next up – in her first ever principal role (which is hard to believe, if not as hard as reviewing of course) playing Maureen was Sarah Askew.  Now Sarah is no mean belter of a top noted harmony as well, as befits a rock band vocalist (if you know, you know) but …  well.  If you need a top MOO-ERR then Sarah is your girl (if you know, you know).  And then we have Davey Evans as Collins. Another wow moment.  Collins is a complex character to play especially with the range of emotions demanded of it, and Davey perfected them all. Great voice too. Which leaves last, but of course NEVER least…  Angel. George Friend. I had the pleasure of speaking with George before and after the show – he is reprising the role he played in 2017 – and he claimed (yeah right 😉) he couldn’t believe he could still reach the high notes he needed but they were well reached, another great performance.

So that’s it. I’ve reviewed a show that’s hard to review. A show that for an opening night was quite wonderful. And let us not forget either the debut show for a brand-new Bath based community theatre company.  Top job.


“RENT” runs until Saturday 16th March at 1930 each evening with a 1430 matinee on the 16th. Tickets can be bought from
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/bath/rondo-theatre/rent/e-mdxlbz

and I urge you to go.

And – don’t forget to MOOOO!  (if you know, you know).

You always said how lucky you were that we were all friends. But it was us, baby, who were the lucky ones.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 13th – 19th March 2024

Here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire, hold onto your hats, there’s lots to get through! And I’ve not had time to run off a weekly podcast, though the thought was, cos I like doing them, but ain’t nobody listening to them…. probably must be my jokes putting them off! I can understand that!

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 13th

Green Grub Club at St James, Devizes. Acoustic Jam at the Southgate.

Runny Snotts Open Mic at the Three Crowns, Chippenham.

Los Gusanos at The Bell, Bath. And running until 16th March, Rent at the Rondo Theatre.

Big Jam Session at The Vic, Swindon. Memory Cinema – Peter Pan at Swindon Arts Centre.

Junior Voice Festival – Songs From Our Song Book at the Wyvern.

Thursday 14th

Make your own Easter Egg Masterclass at HollyChocs, Poulshot.

Fantasy Radio live Lounge at the Pelican, Devizes: Jambon Chapeau.

Comedy Loft at The Civic, Trowbridge.

Ruby Darbyshire at The Old Bell, Warminster.

PSG Choir workshop at the King Alfred Hall, Chippenham.

Foregate Brothers at The Beehive, Swindon. Alex Taylor at The Tuppenny. Jeff Woodhouse Medium at Swindon Arts Centre.

Howlin’ Ric & the Rocketeers at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Friday 15th

The What 4’s at The Black Horse, Cherhill.

The Groom’s House Party at The Town Hall, Devizes.

Tom Davis & the Bluebirds at The Barge, HoneyStreet. Trash Panda at the Cooper’s, Pewsey.

The Soul Strutters at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Be Like Will at The White Hart, Atworth.

Richard Wileman & Amy Fry, Phil Mercy’s Blind Convergence at Baristocats, Swindon. Jon Amor Trio at The Beehive. Penfold at The Vic. Cirque – The Greatest Show at the Wyvern.

Sam Kelly’s Station House at Chapel Arts, Bath. Beatsenders Episode 3 at Nowhere.

Nine Below Zero at The Tree House, Frome. Limehouse Lizzy at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 16th

CUDS; Let’s Clean Up Devizes, on the Green. Wiltshire Air Ambulance Free Valuation Day at The Corn Exchange, Devizes. The Starlight Concert Series with the Full-Tone Orchestra at St Andrews. The Tricks at The Three Crowns. Lightnin’ Hobos at the Southgate. Devizes Rugby Club has the ladies v Amesbury, 2nds V Amesbury, screening of Six Nations and Six O’Clock Circus in the evening.

Charity Event in Aid of Dorthey House at St Nicholas Church, Bromham.

The Blue Moon Band at Woodborough Social Club.

Josh Kumra at The Bear, Marlborough.

Start the Sirens at The Grapes, Melksham.

Beetlehead at the Pump, Trowbridge with Charmtype in support.

The Gesualdo Six: The Wishing Tree at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Asha McCarthy at The Manu Centre. Radiation Sickness at The Three Horseshoes.

The Honky Tonks at Tucker’s Inn, Faulkland.

Alan West & Friends at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Depeche Mode tribute, Enjoy the Silence at The Vic, Swindon. Tundra at The Woodlands Edge. Cirque – The Greatest Show at the Wyvern.

Livewire AC/DC at The Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 17th

Craft Fair at West Lavington Village Hall 10-4pm

March Sighthound Stroll, Devizes: Meeting at the car park right at the top of the road leading to Caen Hill Locks and Cafe. £3 parking fee applies.

Stones Throw at The Three Crowns, Devizes. Howlin’ Matt at the Southgate, with a cigar box guitar making workshop beforehand.

Pewsey Players at St John’s, Pewsey.

Ruby Darbyshire at The Red Lion, Lacock: 12-2pm.

Bob Bowles at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Schmoozenbergs at The Bell, Bath.

Dom Joly’s Conspiracy Tourist Tour at Swindon Arts Centre.

Monday 18th

Jonah Hitchens at The Bell, Bath

The Mousetrap opens at the Wyvern, Swindon, runs until 23rd March.

Tuesday 19th

Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival Fringe, a Celebartion of Nancy Wilson with Victoria Klewin & Adam Stokes Trio at Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon.

Poetika (poetry slam) at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

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. 

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.

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, donate to us if you can, 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: 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.

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. 

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.

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!

Have a good week, and please listen to the podcast, it’ll be fun, pinky promise!

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 28th February- 5th March 2024

Bit Wintery, innit? Calendars are going forward, weather is going backwards! 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. Nothing ongoing on our list, so, let’s jump right into the week….

Okay, all being well, below, find a podcast of everything listed, sprinkled with some great local music. 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! Also, I thought it might be good for anyone with sight or reading issues, but they will have to put up with me waffling! Music comes from Meg, Jol Rose, Phil Cooper, The Worried Men and Junkyard Dogs.

Wednesday 28th

Green Grub Club at St James, Devizes. Acoustic Jam at The Southgate.

The Importance Of Being Earnest at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, running until 11th March. Big Jam Session at The Vic.

Earl Okin’s Legend at Rondo Theatre, Bath. Buffo’s Wake at The Bell, Bath.

National Theatre Live at the Merlin, Frome, with Vanya.

Thursday 29th

Open Mic at The Crown, Aldbourne

Phil Cooper at the Tuppenny, Swindon. Alan Clayson & Chanson at the Beehive. Frank Carducci & The Fantastic Squad at The Vic. Daniel Foxx at Swindon Arts Centre.

Keith James – ‘Solid Air’ – The songs of Nick Drake & John Martyn at Chapel Arts, Bath. Tam Lin Retold at the Rondo Theatre.

Leaps of Faith at the Merlin Theatre, Frome.

Friday 1st March

The Cinelli Brothers at Long Street Blues Club, Devizes.

Technicolour Steam Train & Ed Dyke at The Pump, Trowbridge. Shape of You – Ed Sheeran Tribute at the Civic.

Jennifer Pike and Martin Roscoe at The Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Samantics at The Three Horseshoes.

Green Haze- Green Day Tribute at The Vic, Swindon. The Worried Men at The Queens Tap. Static Moves at the Deer’s Leap.

FearFree Fest 2024 at The Bell, Bath with DreamCaster, Kane Pollastrone, Mobscure, Louie Greensmith and Sharpie helping to support FearFree, a local charity breaking the cycle of abuse.

Free Community Festival at Komedia, Bath.

Saturday 2nd

CapFest at St James, Devizes. Plan of Action at The Three Crowns. Junkyard Dogs at The Southgate. The Music of Simon & Garfunkel at The Wharf Theatre.

Sam Cronin at The Barge, HoneyStreet. Open Mic at The Kings Arms, All Cannings.

Apache Cats at The Bear, Marlborough. Homer at The Lamb. Chuckle at the Church – Comedy Night at St Peter’s.

The Chaos Brothers at The Grapes, Melksham

The Future Sound of Trowbridge #6 at the Pump, Trowbridge with Nobody’s Dad, Sharpie and Sebastian & Me.

Spiers & Boden at The Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. The Derellars at The Three Horseshoes.

Mid Life Krisis, Diversify at The Vic, Swindon. Trios Amigos at the Swiss Chalet. Sonic Alert at The Queens Tap. Post 12 at The Woodland’s Edge. 

The Saviours Collective at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Witchfest Market at the Cheese & Grain in Frome, followed by Maniac Street Preachers Vs StereoIronics. The Blink 182 Show has sold out at the Tree House. Martha Tilston at Rook Lane Chapel.

Sunday 3rd and Monday 4th I’ve got nothing, but do keep a check on the event calendar for updates.

Update: Just in, there’s an open mic at the Lamb in Marlborough from 8pm on Monday 4th March.

Tuesday 5th

Jazz Knights presents Alan Barnes Quartet at The Royal Oak, Swindon.

ADHD and Women with Dr Samantha Hiew at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

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. 

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.

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!

Have a good week, and please listen to the podcast, it’ll be fun, I promise you!!

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.

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. 

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.

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!

Have a good week! 

Carrie at The Rondo Theatre, Bath, February 14th-17th 2024

Ian Diddams

As a child of the 70s I grew up with the new genre of horror films …  “The Exorcist” led the way in 1973 with its green vomit and spinning head. “The Omen” in similar demonic child plot followed in 1976, but also released in 1976 was a film featuring a less demonic but no less …  disturbed…  teenager…  “Carrie”. The screenplay was an adaptation of Stephen King’s 1974 novel of the same name about an outsider high school student of that name.

So having a horror story book, followed by a horror story film, what is the obvious next step to take with the overall premise?  That’s right – a musical. How obvious.  After all, its hardly lovely, fluffy, boy meets girl, boy and girl fall in love, unlikely misunderstanding occurs, boy and girl separate, boy and girl get back together, love blossoms, final curtain, all interspersed with some jolly rollicking show tunes, stuff. Oh no – its more everybody hates girl, mother suppresses girl, girl is awkward, girl’s peers humiliate girl, girl kills peers…   all interspersed with some … well… not so bouncy (but excellent!) show tunes.

If you aren’t aware of the story proper, and the above synopsis isn’t enough, then google is your friend.  Though in a bizarre happenstance of fate my poor typing skills initially wrote that as “google is your fiend”.  Which may be somewhat more apposite given the storyline.  Maybe.

Anyway…  I quite like dark musicals. And let’s face it …  musicals probably don’t come much darker than something that originated from the pen of Stephen King.

“Carrie” is performed by “Luna Theatrics”, a Bath based company at the Rondo Theatre this week. The cast is a young one as befits the story’s setting in Chamberlain High School and where the eponymous anti-hero is a late to puberty seventeen-year-old. The set is a simple black box with minimal props – it very much helps highlight the action with few distractions.

In attendance is the quite excellent live seven-piece band led by Alex Williams, tucked away but centre stage in the rear section that the Rondo’s stage allows for. Tech is provided by Alex Draper & Tony Giddings with specialist effects from Lazurus Molina and Jack Whittaker. Mollie Macpherson produced the show.

So what of the show I hear you ask? The book is by Lawrence D. Cohen, lyrics by Dean Pitchford and music by Michael Gore, but that’s the stuff that google can give you of course. It’s a fast-paced show which nonetheless pulls along the fairly simple story line in about an hour and three quarters – not that it ever seems to be taking long I hasten to add lest that appear a criticism.

There are three key partnerships in the story. Mother and child – Margaret and Carrie. Margaret is the overbearing, Old Testament god-fearing, benignly intentioned, oppressor of her daughter and is superbly played by Caroline Murray; it’s the smallest principal character yet without Margaret the story doesn’t exist, and Caroline ensures every nuance of the mother’s influence over Carrie is illustrated. Carrie – all shy angst and awkwardness, is played stupendously by Amy Goodspeed. At first Amy’s portrayal seems a little lack lustre – but this is me being slow …  as in fact she had encapsulated the persona of her character perfectly, which as the second act moves on expands into a more confident girl and burgeons with it…  until the final humiliation and the crushing of dreams.
These two have for me the most beautiful parts of the musical …  a duet in the first act (“Evening Prayers”) and Caroline’s stunning solo in act two (“When There’s No One”).

The second partnership is Sue and Tommy – the high school perfect couple – played by Ella Rodbourn and Ewan Wyatt. Both play their characters believably as the “in crowd” that become supportive of Carrie. Ella demonstrates Sue’s frailty and uncertainty in particular really well…  while Tommy’s prom scene with Carrie is done sweetly with compassion.

Then there’s the “nasty couple” of Chris and Billy…  where it’s better to strike than get struck better to screw than get screwed, better to punch than get punched, better to burn than get burned as Chris’ solo (“The World according to Chris”) explains. Chris is perfectly belligerently portrayed by the ever adaptable and strong stage presence of Naomi Marie. Jack Whittaker is absolutely perfect as Billy, all alpha male testosterone, and no brain cells.

The rest of the cast all equally shine – unsurprisingly. Rebecca Paterson & Joe Gibson as the harangued teachers, and other students consisting of Joshua Phillips, Katherine Flint, Holly Dumper, Adam Evans, Sarah Coles and Louisa Naylor.  Ensembles are often glossed over but these eight keep the pace high and all take their opportunities to shine.

There’s one area I haven’t mentioned yet – and step forward director and choreographer Adam Evans. The dance sequences are crisp, sharp, and energetic – several cast members mentioned after the show how warm they still were after changing! The direction is spot on too…  there are parts of the show that are genuinely scary and disturbing. 

TL;DR? It’s a cracking show. The music is excellent. Choreography excellent. Drama spot on. Acting and singing top notch.

And so back to the film in 1976…  Those that have seen it may be wondering if the stage musical has the same…  surprising … ending. Well….. 

…  You’ll have to go and see the show to find out!  Carrie is showing at the Rondo Theatre until Saturday 17th February, at 1930 with a Saturday 17th matinee at 1430.

Tickets Here

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.

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. 

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.

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!

Have a good week- that’s the last important thingy to say!!   

Trending……

Devizes, We Are Sustainable!

Bingo, someone came up to me in the Market Place while I was chatting with Devizes Greens chief, Margaret Green about all random matters of…

We’ve Found You, Danni W!

Right you lot, listen up; I’m fully aware this debut album, Lost to be Found, from Swindon’s Danni W has been out, what, a fortnight…

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!!

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.

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!

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. 

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.

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!

Have a good week- that’s the last important thingy to say!!   

Trending……

The Importance of Being Earnest at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes

The Importance of Being Earnest is rather like a newfound interest in jazz, you must “unlearn” the four-beat pop you’re accustomed to, to fully appreciate it. You have to rewind, temporarily forget Rick Mayall and Ade Edmondson, forgo all farcical comedy from The Goon Show to Charlie Chaplin, and leave your Tardis in late Victorian England, then, you will laugh.….in a hoity-toity kinda fashion!

Opening Monday, it’s a sell-out at the Wharf Theatre in Devizes already, assuring me you know the plot and backstory; though I caught last night’s dress rehearsal, I’m not sure I need review it, only to assure ticket-holders they’re in for a good night, express, once again, why you gotta love our communal and hospitable town’s theatre, and maybe attempt to convince you I’m an intellectual!

One of the few plays I’ve read, I’m reminded how ironic and sardonic towards pomposity Oscar Wilde was, and how much trouble he got from it; surely making The Importance of Being Earnest a Victorian Men Behaving Badly, albeit written by a genius of twisting narrative the like I find unable to make a modern comparable.

I find myself wondering how, or even if it’s possible, to modernise it, as they did with Brewster’s Millions, for example. For it lambasts the snobbery of Victorian social etiquette as nonsensical, ridiculing the formalities of gentry as preposterous folly, and though it suggests insincerity and fabrications should be morally neutral, our protocols to be so feigned with social interactions has drastically improved through equality since, making this feel somewhat lost in time. Such is its ex-post facto beauty, concluding some things are best left the way they are. 

This leaves the happy ending scene questionable by today’s standards. In an unfeasible  modern twist it’s surely likely both Jack and Algernon would’ve been victims of their own circumstance; akin to a double-act of Basil Fawlty and Basil Fawlty. A modernisation of the play would end (spoiler alert) with the penultimate scene, where the ladies discover Earnest was a big, fat double-whammy fib to get in their knickers, and the boys would’ve been summoned to punishment for their deceptions, liable to sharp kicks to their respective groin-areas!

True, isn’t it? Modern girls wouldn’t have given these unsuitable and practically unhinged suitors the time of day! They’d receive only a two-finger salute, probably de-friended and condemned on Facebook, and they’d both be rung out to dry on Tinder, no matter how loaded they are! It is then, with a curiosity of Victorian ethics which makes this play so endearingly comical, classic and impossible to modernise; go tell Disney! 

Though, with a line in the play ironically defuncting happy endings I hadn’t picked up on till last night’s fantastic dramatisation of it, I strongly suspect that is precisely what Wilde was getting at, only leaving me ponder what he would think of our era today. There’s far more connotations to encrypt from this play than first meets the eye, but at least he wouldn’t be threatened with a bouquet of rotten vegetables from his boyfriend’s pop and in his attempt to sue the Lord, get banged up in the big house for it. More likely the Lord would get a wrap on the knuckles for a hate-crime; proving how far we’ve emancipated and why this play is so intriguing and poignant, if outmoded comically.

And it’s played out wonderfully, Rob Finlay plays steadfast Jack Worthing, Oliver Beech makes the perfect punster Algernon Moncrieff, and their conflicting characters ricochet off each other like they were performing this in Melksham’s Bounce House!

Sophie Kerr plays Gwendolen Fairfax, and Anna McGrail is Cecily Cardew, elegantly defining the constricted mannerisms of Victorian ladies, and Wilde’s attempts to satirise it. Comic gold from Debby Wilkinson as Lady Bracknell and Jess Bone as Miss Prism, particularly when the two finally clash. Rob Gill is the bumbling reverend, Tony Luscombe and Ian Diddams make the perfect butlers.

Lewis Cowen is one dedicated director who has made this play shine beyond the rafters of the Wharf. I think you’ll love it, being far more intellectual than me, and I finish with an oxymoron Oscar Wilde might be proud of me for; oh, awfully witty, what-what! Photographer Chris Watkins was there, trying to grab some images from him to illustrate this with, for now, I apologise for not taking photos, but guarantee you, it’s yet another stunning performance.

Trending….

Summer Roots Festival….In Keevil?!

You may know the tiny village of Keevil, the name of which will never cease to remind me of Evel Knievel, for its airfield…

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!!

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Way to Start the Year; Bradford Roots Festival 2024

Hibernating since Christmas, now I feel like a turkey, making up for it, stuffing eighteen bands into eight hours, such is the beauty of Bradford Roots Festival…..

Impossible to provide detailed analysis of each with such a sizable quota, not without an essay-length review, and there’s the handful I missed. Suffice it to say, every act I witnessed at Bradford Roots Festival was top notch, and locally-sourced, just as we like it here on the De-viz-ine!

Over two years from 2019, our man Andy returned from the annual convention and reported back. I skipped through it and published. I need not doubt his words, dedicating my time writing something else. I wrongly assumed at the time, likely from its name, that the Bradford Roots Festival was a folk festival, rather “roots” I now believe refers geographically; it’s the music of the here and now. I discovered this for myself attending last year’s and unexpectedly hearing jazz and youthful grunge bands you wouldn’t usually hear at a folk festival!

Open any fire door to the wonderful Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon, and there’s another surprise behind it. The festival is an annual indoor feast of music over four stages, fundraising for the Centre itself, their Zone Club, a musical group for disabled adults, and a chosen charity, this year’s being Parkinson’s support. I like to define it as a convention of local musicians rather than a festival, only because it’s all indoors and winter, but it doubles up as either. Either way you view it, it’s a brilliant event for all ages. For the elders there’s a bar and food options, for the youngest there’s craft rooms, workshops and naturally for a festival in January, ice cream!

You could also see it as a taster for the wealth of musical acts we have on this circuit; you’ll find them performing in our local venues. Some I’ve previously tried and tested, others were new to me, and some essential to check off my ever-growing must-see list.

The latter true of the first, gutted to have been too late for Daisy Chapman at the acoustic Gudeon stage, Jol Rose followed. He’s the Swindon-based Americana soloist I met at a Swindon Shuffle of yore and been meaning to catch perform. Like all others, he didn’t disappoint, despite only catching his finale. Here’s a prolific acoustic magician with the experience under his belt to engage an audience. An open mic hour followed at this stage.

If Jol, though, came as no surprise, Thieves did. My next venture to the Wild & Woolley stage where blues is the order by day, and youth gather for indie by the eve, Thieves were playing an acoustic harmony not unlike the Lost Trades, and hey presto, I’m standing next to the one only Phil Cooper, one third of said Trades! He’s compere for this stage, and will perform at the bar stage later. As Thieves progressed through a sublime set of bluegrass I likened it more to Concrete Prairie, and of similar quality. I’m staring at the frontman from a distance, thinking, by Jove, that’s Adam Woodhouse, who I know as a soloist with a penchant for rock n roll covers. This new outfit, Thieves, only formed in June and is barking up his alley, you’d imagine the four-piece to have done this all their life. Adam tells me they’re playing a Sunday at The Southgate, Devizes, in April, well worth your attention.

The festival breaks for its foyer tradition of Holt’s morris dancers and children’s parade, known as the Wassall, then Phil Cooper takes the Bar Stage, kicking off with his own Road Songs, finding time to superbly cover Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.

Such is diversity on offer, when it’s time for some jazz hey presto, again, I’ve finally made my way to the Main Stage for The Graham Dent Trio. Jazz pianist with a double-bass player and Nick Sorensen on sax, this is divine melodic invention, contemporary and unique, though I knew what I was letting myself in for, I saw them last year.  

Drag myself away, for Bristol Uni indie four-piece, LilyPetals. New to me, confident youngsters with funky basslines over the archetypal rock, big tick from me. And a tick off my must-see list, Be Like Will on the main stage, a varied strong female-fronted three-piece pub circuit band who used the festival to play through their originals rather than their usual covers to appease a pub audience, which, either way, they’d accomplish with bells on. The new tune finale was a definite article to how rousing this band can take an audience.

The showstopper though, and it’s a big show to stop, came from Ruby Darbyshire at the Gudgeon. An absolutely spellbinding performance left the crowd in awe as others mingled outside praying someone would leave to replace them; few did. Ruby’s stage presence has drastically improved in a relatively short space of time, her talent to adapt from acoustic folk to jazz scat need not. With just the right balance of originals and covers, she held us in awe, was the only artist to get an encore, and through Sinéad O’Connor, Dylan, Bob Marley and Springsteen covers she nailed them all and made them her own. Particularly poignant, Ella Fitzgerald’s Misty, simply, wow!

Beguiling building layers of goth-rock were sounding from the Wild & Woolley, though, as Bristol’s female-fronted Life in Mono took to the stage. Evanescence in shape, yet solely idiosyncratic, here’s a euphoric original band to look out for. With Life in Mono indulgently ticked off my must-see, a new one on me rocked the main stage, the steady gypsy-dad-folk of The Mighty Rooster, prior to ensuring I was at the Bar for the unmissable Chippenham folk singer-songwriter, Meg. A passionate and thoughtful young artist, Meg delivers in such a unique yet proficient way I deem it impossible for anyone not to love her.

Such is the tight schedule though, should I need waiver artists we’ve seen and featured before in favour of ones I’ve yet to catch live? Trowbridge soul artist extraordinaire, Frankisoul is due on the main stage; anticipation brewing from the crowd while the band frustrate themselves with minimal setup times, resulting in a few technical mishaps, would, in any other circumstances be somewhat off-putting, but, fact is Frankisoul is such a character, and such a vibrant and sublime soul vocalist, hiccups were easy to polish over, still, they came up smiling and were my second showstoppers of the festival.       

Cliché is putty in Frankisoul’s hands, if his only cover, Gloria Gaynor’s I Will Survive is so, and they rinsed their originals with gusto and stylish proficiency, even down to a moment of hilarity upon Frankisoul mimicking the coat stage gimmick of James Brown. It’s these originals which gravitated me towards them, reviewed here, I shivered apprehension comparing him to likes of Luther Vandross, particularly Otis Redding, and yeah, live there’s a hint of eighties soul, of Kool & the Gang, but now I know he can live up to these.

Meanwhile the wonderful Courting Ghosts were unplugged at the Bar Stage, with their amazing blend of folk-rock, and Melksham’s finest youth band The Sunnies rocked the Wild & Woolley. One I’ve been aching to catch, yet I didn’t catch enough of due to Frankisoul gluing me to my seat, if I liken The Sunnies to Devizes-own sensation, Nothing Rhymes With Orange, I think it’s fair to now state, The Sunnies angle slightly to more indie-pop, their originals tinged with a carefree and indeed, sunny-side-of-the-street feel; a blessing to watch, bloomin’ marvellous!

With lively function band the Corporations attracting those left standing to the main stage, crowds lessened at the Wild & Woolley, sadly just when the epic finale was due. Yeah, it’s Devizes’ Nothing Rhymes with Orange’s headliner; those in the know and a few curious punters stayed to observe our hometown’s fever as the boys pulled out their typical energetic and competent show. Evermore is their attraction spreading, with gigs lined up as far as Manchester now, NRWO, I’ll be banging on about their brilliance for a while yet it seems!

Conclude this now, Worrow, in some manner, you’re sounding boring! I Know, but, over a colossal word-count only teetering on covering all the happenings at Bradford Roots Festival, and only the one day of it too, I struggle to find anything to grumble about. What a way to start the year, Bradford Roots Festival is amazing, the shell, The Wiltshire Music Centre is a blessing to our county, the value for money is righteous, the atmosphere is equable and convivial, and long may it be so.

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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.

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.

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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Carmela’s Wonder Wheels Challenge

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I’ll Tell You What I’m Most Looking Forward to at Bradford Roots Festival, Opinions May Vary!

The longer I gaze in awe at the lineup for this year’s Bradford Roots Festival at the Wiltshire Music Centre the more tempted to break hibernation for an expedition to Bradford-on-Avon I get, even if it means in Robert Falcon Scott style. If it’s Antarctic conditions out there on Saturday 20th Jan, I’m hiring huskies!

Billy in the Lowground

Four stages of the crème de la crème of locally sourced music under one purpose-built roof ensures it’ll be warm inside. Bradford Roots Festival is a who’s who of local talent, more music convention than festival, and I don’t know if they took heed of some suggestions I made or we’re simply singing off the same song sheet, but, just, wowsers!

Frankisoul

One thing before waffling on those I do know, there’s much more that I don’t know, yet, which is equally gurt lush, and hope to shed some light on those once done and dusted. For now though, let’s virtually trek stage-by-stage, kicking off with the main stage. Graham Dent Jazz Trio I caught last year and look forward to, Be Like Will aren’t much after and we love those guys, but Trowbridge’s upcoming soul hero, Frankisoul is a must for me. Reviewing his debut EP left me at loss for a local comparison, and while I’d never use Otis Redding lightly, such is the strength of Frankisoul’s vocals I did, and that’s the highest compliment I can reward, surely?! Though I’ve yet to catch him live, I’m putting him on a pedestal I’m certain he won’t kick over.

Nothing Rhymes With Orange at Devizes Street Festival

Wild and Woolley stage speaks for itself, Mark Green’s Blues Band are worthy of attention based on last year’s stunning performance. Yet it’s the gen z takeover in the latter half of the day down there which is really going to go off. Foxymoron, Melksham’s finest The Sunnies, and Devizes homegrown sensation, Nothing Rhymes With Orange, are all must-sees. Nestled between them is Bristol’s Life in Mono, who, though slightly older, I’ve only heard great things about.

Courting Ghosts

Newly formed but brimming with experience and talent, Courting Ghosts are unplugged as a finale at the bar stage, which will be something else. It’s also grand to see one third Lost Trader Phil Cooper on the list, Phil was the mc last year, and one rising acoustic magician I beg you to catch, Chippenham’s Meg.

Meg

There’s another stage I can’t even remember them having last year, The Golden Gudegon, kicked off by Trowbridge’s incredible Americana artist Daisy Chapman, followed by the impressive force which is Swindon’s Joel Rose, and though the rest are new to me, Ruby Darbyshire is rightfully on that list, and I recommend you find the stage for these. 

Ruby Darbyshire

And that’s just Saturday! Though unless I win the lottery, or suddenly invent commercially viable cloning technology within a fortnight, Sunday, I’ll sadly miss it. Though Becky Lawrence, Billy in the Lowground, Karport Collective, and Ed Dyke are the ones I’ll be most sad to have missed.

Karport Collective

And there’s my take on it, I’m sure you may have a different opinion and can name drop a whole other set on this stunningly extensive lineup, that’s your prerogative, and I’ll always heed of your recommendations. But one sure thing, Bradford Roots Festival is on, and is a wonderful thing. Fundraising for Parkinsons UK, the Music Centre’s Trust and their inhouse Zone Club, a monthly music-making project supporting the creativity of learning disabled young adults. The Zone Club presents their work on the main stage at 11:30.

Becky Lawrence

Beer from Kettlesmith Brewing and plenty of food and drink. Tickets are just £32 for the weekend or £22 for Saturday and £17 for Sunday only….snap them up, it’s worth it for one of those acts recommended alone…or maybe two, maximum!

Tickets HERE

And the Full Line Up too!

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The Magic Teapot Gathering

Okay, so there must be a truckload of local social and political ranting to cover, but it’s new year’s day, I’m going to waffle about magic teapots…..

When you put out a piece highlighting local festivals happening over the next year it’s inevitable you’ll miss a few, and good folk will email, hoping their shindig can be listed. Naturally, we’re always happy to hear from them, and will endeavour to add them to the list. But being this is such a fantastic concept, and besides, it’s called The Magic Teapot, how could I refuse a little extra attention?!

In the economic plight stationary music venues face troubled times, here’s a mobile venue, which goes from festival to festival, hosting its own little festival inside it; magic indeedy! The Magic Teapot, though, hosts its own annual festival too, happening in the Mendip Hills from the 3rd to 6th May. I put to its creator, the aptly named Joseph Peace, he could put a model of a festival inside the festive teapot, making it like those Russian dolls!

He replied he liked the idea and would ponder it, but more importantly, after I had calmed down from the excitement of hearing from a magic teapot, Joseph told me The Magic Teapot has been running since 2017. “We currently take The Magic Teapot to around 18 festivals each year,” he said, “The Gathering is the only event of our own we currently run, hiring a campsite to do it. It’s quite an undertaking so once a year is enough at the moment. When we get our own land we will be doing regular small events ourselves, hopefully that can happen sooner rather than later, fingers crossed.”

This is the third year of The Magic Teapot Gathering, why am I last to hear about these things?! A totally acoustic, amplifier-free festival in four Magic Teapot structures which can easily accommodate everyone in the case of poor weather. Headliners for 2024 are 3 Daft Monkeys, Noble Jacks and Mobius Loop; lovely. Lots of opportunities to join in with playing and singing and each venue features a real piano and a warming central fire.

You can help with building the wicker man, which burns Saturday night, or join the Maypole dancing on Sunday morning. Ticket price includes camping, car parking, showers, sauna and hot tub. Adult ticket, £100, teen ticket £25, kids free, campervan £15.

Make no mistake just ‘cos it’s new year’s day, I’m partially frazzled and 2024 hasn’t got off to a great start what with my daughter assaulting me with a teacake to the face last night, I absolutely love this festival with charms on, this whole Magic Teapot idea, and I’m all tingly with just how communal and beautiful it all looks; somebody put some dandelions in my hair, pronto!

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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!

Bit dodgy!

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.

These Pants!
Adam Woodhouse at the Three Crowns
We Will Rock You @ Devizes School

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!

Will Lawton & The Alchemists @ The Pump
The Lost Trades @ The Pump

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
Ant Trouble @ The Vic

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!

Brave New Broken Hearts Club

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.

Measure For Measure

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.

Poetika

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. 

Opendoors Concert 2023

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.

Vanessa Tanner

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.

NRWO at the Pump

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.

Jon Amor and Leburn Maddox
Paradigm

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.

41 Fords
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.

Malavita at Devizes Arts Festival 2023

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. 

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

Devizes Pride
Mantonfest 2023

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.  

Bob Marley Experience @ CrownFest
Devizes Scooter Rally

Two art exhibits reviewed, Anna Dillon’s Wessex Airscapes at Wiltshire Museum and Alexander Kai’s Figures in Focus at St Mary’s Devizes.

Alexander Kai at St. Mary’s

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.

NRWO @ The Corn Exchange

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.

Becca Maule

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.

Fulltone Festival 2023

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!

Devizes Salsa

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.

Mr Tea & The Minions at HoneyFest

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.

The Female of the Species

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.

M3G @ the Pump

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

Ruby Darbyshire played Glasgow’s Barrowlands with The Charlatans, and Gail and I met  Henry Normal and Nigel Planer at Devizes Town Hall; heavy!

With Nigel Planer @ Devizes Town Hall
James Hollingsworth at The Southgate

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.

Pirates!
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. 

Omega Nebula

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

Illingworth at the Three Crowns

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.

NRWO at the Southgate

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! 

The Big Ones: Local Festivals Part 2: June & July 2024

Featured Image: FullTone Festival, Devizes 2023 by Gail Foster

Read part 1: Jan to May Here

Onwards with our look through all the big local events and festivals coming our way in 2024. Note, there will always be additions, many annual events still to fix a date, as we work through the year we’ll add them to our event calendar. This is just an overview of what we have so far. I’ve already added the Devizes International Street Festival on the May bank holiday, 26th and 27th, for an unmissable example!

We finished off the first part at the end of May, the last day of the month sees the Devizes Arts Festival begin, which continues through the first fortnight of June, which is where we will pick up from now. Only those two summer months to cover in this part, because there’s so much happening over this period, and we’ll conclude with August until December in the third and final section. 

June

31st May- 16th: Devizes Arts Festival

There’s been a few leaks about acts at Devizes Arts Festival this year, my favourite so far is to catch the wonderful Lady Nade, but also find Martin Simpson, the Jolly Roger, Hollie McNish’s Lobster Tour, Jo Carley and The Old Dry Skulls, Phil Hammond, Rumour, and Antarctic explorer Tom Crean. Keep your eyes peeled for more info, we love the Devizes Arts Festival and we will be featuring it extensively throughout the new year, so, don’t touch that dial!

Malavita at Devizes Arts Festival 2023. Image: Gail Foster

1st: Shambles Festival, Melksham

Shambles Festival is a single-day dance music event happening at The King George V Park in Melksham. It features diverse entertainment combining DJ sets and live music, with 25+ Acts, Big top festival tents, Veli’cious food stalls, a bar located in a marquee and top-end sound systems, as a priority.

It’s the second annual outing for this blossoming local dance event in the Sham, organised by 21-year-old Melksham-born DJ, James Wilkins, who states he wants to “see a better representation of local talent in the arts in rural places.”

This is precisely the kind of initiative we ache to promote on Devizine, there’s a great need for more dance music events locally, and wish the team the very best of luck with it. Normally I’m saying check our event calendar for ticket links and info, otherwise it’s time consuming for me, but I’ll drop this one, HERE, because I’ve a lot of time for this. 

9th: Lions on the Green, Devizes

Wonderful start to summer in Devizes, when the Lions Club presents a free family day with a car show on the Green. 

10th: Bradford-on-Avon Food & Drink Festival

Bradford on Avon Food and Drink Festival is a dynamic and fun celebration of all that is wonderful and delicious in the South West. Produce at its very best, plenty to see, drink and eat and in a vibrant atmosphere in the centre of this gorgeous and historic market town.

See Masterclasses and Interviews from local & celebrity chefs, Artisan Market,  Street Food, Live Music, Children’s Fun Cooking Classes, Children’s Circus Skills, FestivAles’ Pop up Pub, and much, much more.

15th: Chippenham Pride

Last year Chippenham held the best Pride around these country parts, by a country mile! in 2024 they will be expanding into Monkton Park as well as Island Park. There will be some exciting NEW areas for Chippenham Pride 2024, including a fully licensed bar, an awesome Cabaret stage, a kids area including rides, face glitter and fun stall as well an Education tent. And it’s all Free!

There will also be the much loved Pride walk throughout the town centre and into Monkton Park, well-being and retail stalls, 10 hours of Main Stage entertainment and the official flag raising ceremony at 10am!

15th: Neuroheadz Festival 2024, Cotswolds

Back for its third year, this is a one-day dance music festival with limited camping spots in the Cotswolds, Brokenborough to be more precise!

20th: Summer Solstice

Summer Solstice, located…erm, well, worldwide, but the best place in said world to see it in, is Wiltshire, at Stonehenge and Avebury, but, you knew that already! 

20th: Iford Manor Jazz Festival, Bath

Grownups only, jazz performances sweeping across the beautiful woodlands and Japanese Garden, your chance to discover Ilford Manor, near Bath, in all its glory. 

26th-29th: Glastonbury Festival

We have to put this mini-festival in, though if you want to go you should plan much sooner than this! The world’s most famous festival on our doorstep, and it is much in the notion of this which allows the West Country to have a knock-on effect hosting so many others. There is nothing quite like Glasto, more experience than event, but, these days you have to be punctual. One day I’ll make it back there! 

28th-29th: Chippenham Food & Drink Festival

Two day Food and Drink Festival at Monkton Park, Chippenham, bringing some of the best chefs, wine, live music and so much more over one summer weekend. Gather your friends and enjoy good food, good wine, & great times.

29th: Melksham Pride

Proud Melksham gets set for another year’s Pride in the town.

29th: MantonFest, Marlborough

Mantonfest 2023. Image Gail Foster

Last one of June, and it’s an amazing one. We at Devizine love MantonFest with bells on. Such a quaint little secret garden party near Marlborough, it’s well-established and so welcoming and communal. Another year, another great lineup supporting local and youth acts as well as the best quality tributes to polish the night off, we love it, I told you we love it, didn’t I?! 

Mantonfest 2023. Image Gail Foster

July

4th-7th: Minety Music Festival

Minety has fast become the most talked about festival locally, hosting some big names annually, but also taking giant leaps in promoting locally-sourced acts too, Minety is your go-to for a friendly local festival with big impressions and standards. The Feeling and Ash are the biggies for 2024, find Queen tribute Flash and, as I said, you can guarantee some quality local bands too.

5th-14th: Frome Festival

Frome’s arts and culture festival takes place at various venues over a fortnight. Their mission is to celebrate Frome’s unique arts scene by providing accessible cultural events for over 12,000 attendees per year and championing the creative community by providing an annual platform for over 100 events delivered by local artists and community groups.

6th-13th: Cheltenham Music Festival

Celebrated since its inception in 1945, Cheltenham Music Festival has become one of the UK’s leading classical music festivals, bringing together eight days of live music in the Regency spa town of Cheltenham each July. The Festival prides itself on encouraging a spirit of curiosity and welcoming bold performances. It is renowned for presenting world-class musicians in magnificent venues around various venues across the town.

6th: Cheese & Chilli Festival Swindon 2024

National touring company organised, still these festivals are a popular attraction, this one takes place at Lydiard Park.

10th-13th: 2000Trees, Cheltenham

This largely indie-based award-winning festival is one I only ever hear great things about. 

13th: Devizes Beer Festival

Time once again to drink yourself stupid at Devizes Wharf, but we like it like that!

13th: Somerset Kaya Reggae Festival, Caryford

Bruton Dub Club and Kaya Festival bring you some of the best in UK reggae. Limited tickets for this communal reggae do. 

14th Godney Gathering, Somerset

The Godney Gathering has quickly established itself as one of the best single-day micro festivals in the UK, achieving outstanding reviews locally and nationally. 2024 lineup yet to be confirmed, go to this on its reputation alone.

20th: Market Lavington Vintage Meet

Bigger and better than the title might sound, this is a large retro family festival with a village fete ethos. 

20th: My Dad’s Bigger Than Your Dad, Swindon

The highlight of the Swindon calendar, supporting the local scene and raising funds for Prospect House, My Dad’s Bigger Than Your Dad is now four years young, and the institution you need to be part of! 

Held at the Bowl in Town Gardens makes for the perfect location. No lineup announced yet, but in association with Swindon Shuffle you can be rest assured you’re in good hands.

20th: Classic Ibiza at Bowood

Commercial venture for the Ibiza diehards, this one will set you back a packet, but for those who attend I hear good things. 

25th-28th: Womad, Malmesbury

Being that we don’t get much day-to-day world music in our county, it goes without saying we do have the world’s finest word music festival. Annually for as long as I can recall the Charlton Park estate in Malmesbury plays host to Womad. Tickets are not on sale, sign up on their website for announcements.

26th-28th: Devizes Scooter Rally

Mods, skinheads, scooterists, there’s many scooter rallies up and down this great nation, but no other on this scale locally. Devizes should be proud the Devizes Scooter Club organises this brilliant and hospitable event. It attracts soul and ska aficionados from across the country and welcomes curious locals on equal level. Last year was awesome and affordable. The club is set for another boss rally, so put your braces together and your boots on your feet, and give me some of that old moonstomping!

27th-28th: FullTone Festival, Devizes

Fulltone Festival 2023 Day Two. Image Gail Foster.

It seems a shame FullTone is the same weekend as the Scooter Rally, but that’s the way the cookie crumbles. The FullTone Orchestra returns to the Devizes Green this weekend, with guests and its blend of orchestral and pop. An amazing weekend, a lovely vibe, and breathtaking stage and sound. Talk in Code returns again this year, and I’m certain a scattering of others will separate the Orchestra’s wonderful concerts…nice!

27th: Bristol Comic & Gaming Con

Ashton Gate Stadium hosts this convention of all things comic, gaming and film. These events are the commercial side of comic cons, but great fun for families. 

28th: Potterne Festival

The best bank holiday you’ll ever have in Potterne! This annual showdown at Potterne Cricket Club is immensely popular and sells out each year. It brags a collection of great local cover and tribute acts and is lots of fun.

28th: M4 Festival, Swindon

Rumour is abound the M4 Festival is happening at Lydiard Park in 2024, but as of yet nothing official has been announced. Be careful, M4 went into liquidation, cancelling last year’s festival at the last minute.

All links to all festivals are on our event calendar, and I am sure many will be added over the coming months. We await news from Trowbridge Festival, Swindon Shuffle, Box Rocks, CrownFest at Bishops Cannings, and so many others yet to announce. For now, summer is nearly upon us, honest!! We will return to cover August and the rest of 2024 asap. I think just June and July are quite enough to take in for now, what with all this wintery wind and perpetual drizzle! Oh, come on summer….spring would do!

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This summer SOS Africa will host a 160ft charity abseil fundraising event from King Alfred’s Tower at Stourhead in celebration of the organisation’s 20th birthday! Taking place…

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Dreadzone, the Phoenix rising from the ashes of Big Audio Dynamite’s success, when drummer Greg Roberts and keyboardist Dan Donovan teamed with Julian Cope’s sound…

The Big Ones: Local Festivals Part 1: January to May 2024

Featured Image: Colin Rayner Photography

It won’t be long before the only Quality Street left in the tin are empty wrappers and those toffee pennies no one likes, you’re swapping your Santa hat for your festival jesters one and thinking what a mess you can get yourself into in local fields. Yep, bar humbug, for just a moment, there’s the locally based big ones to think about spending your Christmas bonus on a ticket for….it’s festival time 2024!

January

20th & 21st: Bradford Roots Festival, Bradford-on-Avon

Not hanging about, and if you’re thinking it’s likely to be a tad nippy for a festie in January, note the iconic winter Bradford Roots Festival is all under the roof of the fabuloso Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon.

Yet to reveal a lineup, but you need not concern yourself, I guarantee it will host the crème de la crème of local talent and many from further afield. The organisers say, “After the success of last year’s festival,” which it truly was a wonderful thing (you can read my tuppence on here) “we’re bringing Bradford Roots back bigger and better with a full weekend of events and activities. Roots is synonymous with community spirit, local talent and an inclusive atmosphere.” And therein lies my surprise last year; the diversity of the program with lots of upcoming bands as well as ones in the spotlight. Ergo, I’ll leak Devizes-own Nothing Rhymes with Orange, Melksham’s finest, the Sunnies, and the most wonderful Ruby Darbyshire are all booked, and hope I don’t get into too much trouble for doing so!

£22 for a Saturday ticket, £32 for the two-day pass, students or under 18 go half price. I cannot think of a better way to start your festive-filled new year!

27th: 7 Bands in 7 Hours, Calne

Calne Liberal Club plays host to this fantastic fundraiser on Saturday 27th January. It’s a suggested fiver donation on the door and you’ll get an hour each of Homer, People Like Us, Six O’Clock Circus, The Chaos Brothers, The Real Cheesemakers, The Killertones and Mike & the Misfits.

February

2nd-4th: InCider Festival, Weston-Super-Mare 

“It’s Weston-super-Mare, Eddie, Weston-super-Mareeee!” Sand Bay Holiday Village plays host to this crazy goodie, established over for a decade, the InCider festival in Feb is only the beginning, with the Cursus Cider & Music Festival running from  24th – 26th May, and the main hoedown, the OutCider Festival from 1st – 4th Aug 2024.

OutCider Festival is an old school, no nonsense weekend of fantastic live music, cider and madness in the Mendips. Organisers clearly state, “no tribute bands. No X-Factor. No Carling lager. No tossers!”

OutCider Festival features 30+ acts over two alternating, barn-covered stages. The mix of music is eclectic, energetic and definitely not anything mainstream. The camping field is lush and spacious and welcomes live-in vehicles.

3rd: DuckFest, Salisbury

Ducking fagic Salisbury Live fundraiser at the Duck Inn in Laverstock. Beggar’s Bash hosts this one-day introduction to the best of live music Salisbury has to offer. 

15th-17th: Bath Bachfest, Bath

Bath’s 13th annual celebration of the music of Johann Sebastian Bach and his contemporaries. The festival was founded in 2012 as a complement to Bath Mozartfest and successor to the long-established Bath Bach Festival founded by Cuthbert Bates and later directed by his daughter, patron Elizabeth Bates.

17th: Devizes Festival of Winter Ales

Raise a glass and celebrate with DOCA at Devizes Festival of Winter Ales on 17th February at Devizes Corn Exchange. Renowned and vital DOCA fundraiser this, in collaboration with Stealth Brew Co. Another double wintery session with a hearty selection of ales and ciders from the country’s best independent breweries, alongside music and entertainment.

This 18+ event comes in two sessions, Fraser Tilley provides music for the early session, 11am-5pm, and Manos Puestos at the late session, 5:30pm-11pm, plus cabaret from Able Mabel at both.

Tickets Available online at tinyurl.com/winterales2024 Physical tickets are also available to purchase at Devizes Books and the British Lion, Devizes.

April

21st: VW Campout, Stonehenge

The multi-award winning family run park, Stonehenge Campsite and Glamping Pods, situated close to Stonehenge hosts this gathering of all things VW!

May

The Magic Teapot Gathering, Mendip

This is a late addition to our listings, but looks so lovely I had to add it! Full preview Here.

11th: Westbury Food & Drink

Leigh Park Community Centre in Westbury hosts this inaugural free festie for all things foodie!

11th: 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. We preview in full, HERE.

17th-26th Bath International Music 

The Bath Festival returns for 2024. Click here to sign up to email updates and latest news.

23rd-26th: Shindig Festival, Dillington Estate, Somerset

Celebrating its tenth year, Shindig is the most contemporary festival of performing arts in the UK, and renowned for being gurt lush! It particularly focuses on dance music, lineup is yet to be announced but tickets are selling out already, based on the festival’s first class reputation rather than acts, but I can say Sister Sledge, De La Soul and many other legends of disco and soul have graced the stage at the Dillington Estate in the past.  

24th-27th: Chippenham Folk Festival

The 50th Anniversary for Chippenham Folk Festival Folk Festival thai year was an amazing success, enjoyed by huge audiences with talented performers from across the UK and beyond. Time is now running out to buy EARLY BIRD TICKETS.

Cursus Cider & Music Festival, Weston-Super-Mare

Continuing from the InCider for OutCider Festival, Sand Bay Holiday Village plays host to this second crazy goodie!

25th: Love Saves The Day, Ashton Court, Bristol

Massive names in pop and dance, Love does indeed Save the Day. Fatboy Slim, The Sugarbabes and Years & Years headlined 2023, how they top it this year time will tell! 

26-27th: Devizes International Street Festival

Goes without saying, DOCA’s International Street Festival is over this Sunday and Monday bank holiday, it’s free, it’s officially the best day you’ll have in Devizes!

26th: Could Be Real Tribute Festival, Swindon Town FC

Swindon Town FC hosts ‘Could Be Real’ Tributes Festival, bringing together the UK’s finest tribute artists and bands for a huge all day festival to celebrate a whole era of music and culture and this family friendly festival will be available for those aged 12 years and older.

31st- 16th June: Devizes Arts Festival 

There’s been a few leaks about acts at Devizes Arts Festival this year, my favourite so far is to catch the wonderful Lady Nade. But hold onto your hats, that’s enough for now, being as this wonderful Arts Festival reaches mainly into June, we’ll feature it again when we come back for the second half of this annual roundup of festivals type thingy, which I will bring you as soon as possible. 

All links to all festivals are on our event calendar, and I am sure many will be added over the coming months. For now, hold tight and we will bring new of the big ones over summer and autumn, but I must say, 2024 is already looking rather special!

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Gazette & Herald to Buy Out Devizine

In a deal I’ve been trying to clench for a year now, Newsquest, owners of Wiltshire based newspapers, including the Gazette & Herald have taken…

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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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 13th – 19th December 2023

It’s beginning to look a lot like…. our weekly roundup of what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this week….. How many sleeps are left? I cheat, I have two sleeps a day, it’s an age thing…..

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, 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.

Wednesday 13th

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Every second Wednesday of the month, it’s Runny Snotts Open Mic at The Three Crowns, Chippenham.

Lunchtime Recital at Pound Arts, Corsham, Flight of the Firebird with violinist Matthew Taylor and Peter French on piano.

Swindon Arts Centre screens The Muppets Christmas Carol as part of their Memory Cinema, for those suffering dementia.

Winter Wonderband at Chapel Arts. Ya Freshness & The Big Boss Band at the Bell, Bath.

Thursday 14th

Owyado Theatre presents a Twisted Christmas at Seend Community Centre.

Open Mic at The Crown, Bishops Cannings.

Junkyard Dogs at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Ben Poole is at The Tree House, Frome, Abba Reunion at the Cheese & Grain.

Friday 15th

Book Launch: Marking Time by Sir Mathew Thorpe at Seend Community Centre.

Carols at the Wharf with Devizes Town Band from 6:30, courtesy of the Kennet & Avon Trust. Ed’s pick of the week, Nothing Rhymes With Orange at The Southgate, Devizes. Devizes Public Living Room Christmas Shindig at the Town Hall.

Alex Mendham and his Orchestra’s Vintage Christmas Party at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Severange @ The Three Horseshoes.

Green Matthews – A Christmas Carol, at Pound Arts, Corsham.

‘Rockin’ & ‘Swingin’ Christmas Evening with Peter Gill & The Good Time Charlies Band at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Diverse Disco, a disco for anyone with disabilities, at Tree Nightclub, Swindon. Cut the Mustard at the Beehive. XSLF at The Vic with Borrowed Time and the Deckchairs in support.

An Intimate Evening With Glen Matlock at The Tree House, Frome. The Jive Aces – “The Not Quite Christmas show” at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 16th

Kenavon Venture Santa Cruise sets sail at Devizes Wharf, and trips are daily until 23rd December. Breakfast with Santa at Devizes Fire Station. Christmas Market at Hillworth Park. The SODs Charity Christmas Gig 2023 at the Town Hall. The Big Sound Christmas Concert at St Johns. The Coco Club Christmas Ball at the Corn Exchange. Christmas Family Ravers at the Exchange. Fullhouse play Frankie Miller at Long Street Blues Club. Phase Rotate at The Southgate. And Sour Apple play The Three Crowns, for Simon’s birthday, happy birthday Simon!

The Vooz play The Lamb, Marlborough.

6 O’clock Circus at The Talbot, Calne.

The Artisan Fundraiser for No7 Creative Space, Chippenham. The West End comes to Chippenham at Christmas at St Pauls. A Christmas Spectacular: Here we come a-carolling at St Andrew’s. 70’s 80’s Disco at The Consti Club.

March for Palestine in Swindon. Swindon Palestine Solidarity (SPS) invites the community to join in a peaceful march on December 16th to call for justice and raise awareness about the ongoing conflict in Palestine. Participants will gather at The Lawns entrance on Old Town High Street, on the corner with Charlotte Mews, at 11 am and begin the march at 11:30 am.

Santa’s Christmas Wish opens at Swindon Arts Centre, running until 24th. Apache Cats at the Queen’s Tap. Mark Valentine Band at the Beehive. Bedrock at The Woodlands Edge. The 12 Bands of Christmas at the Vic, see the poster below!

Rock the Tots Christmas Concert at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Franky & The BuzzCatz at The Three Horseshoes.

The Scribes at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Sense Recordings Free Party at The Queen’s Head, Box. The Marching Skaletons at the Bell, Bath.

The Foxes Present…A Cool Yule at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Rhythm Of The 90s & Dave Pearce at the Cheese & Grain, Frome is sold out.

Sunday 17th

Devizes Young Farmers Tractor & Tinsel Christmas Market at the Market Place, Devizes. Andrew Hurst at The White Bear from 5pm.

Santa’s Christmas Wish at the Neeld, Chippenham.

GBH Big Band with Claire MartinIG at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Mark Green’s Blues Band and others from 3am, free admission at the Mount Pleasant Social Club.  

£20K by December 2023 Fundraising Appeal at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Clyve’s Funky Christmas Party at Chapel Arts, Bath. The Blues Mercenaries at the Bell.

Splat the Rat at the Beehive, Swindon.

Cara Dillon – Upon A Winter’s Night at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. A Dannsa Dub at the Tree House.

Monday 18th

Rock The Tots: Christmas at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Messy Carols at the Beehive, Swindon.

Shing-a-Lings at the Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 19th

Kids Inflatable Christmas Party at The Civic, Trowbridge.

Christmas with Kim Cypher for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon.

Filskit Theatre: Wonder Gigs at Pound Arts, Corsham.

And that’s all I have so far. Saturday 21st is winter solstice, to plan ahead for events over Christmas keep an eye on our event calendar!

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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. 

Image Colin Rayner Photography

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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It’s beginning to look a lot like…. our weekly roundup of 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.

Jack & The Beanstalk at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, is wonderful, and runs till Saturday, but tickets are sold out, join the waiting list online, it’s worth it.

 Wednesday 6th

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Christmas Afternoon for Over 60s at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Old Town Comedy Loft at the Hop Inn, Swindon.

Thursday 7th

The Real Cheesemakers & Tom Veck at The Tuppenny, Swindon, Lucky Thief play the Vic with Life in Mono and Ritual Divide. Geoff Marsh Panto Caped Avengers at Swindon Arts Centre. 

A Winter Union at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Friday 8th

Fun Quiz Night at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. Devizes Public Living Room: has a Singalong with Sian & Rob at Devizes Town Hall, Strange Folk play The Southgate, People Like Us at The Condado Lounge.

Michele Stodart is at the Pump, Trowbridge with DG Solaris in support. Soul Strutters are at the Civic Cafe and Be Like Will at The Red Admiral, Hilperton.

Sons of Town Hall at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Leon McCawley at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, the Boot Hill All Stars Christmas Party at The Three Horseshoes.

The Superskas at Chapel Arts, Bath. The Jon Amor Trio play The Ram.

Riskee & The Ridicule play the Vic, Swindon, with 2 Sick Monkeys and Street Outlaws. The Jake Leg Jug Band at The Queen’s Tap.

TV Smith at the Tree House, Frome, while Complete Madness tribute are at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 9th

Young Curators Club, and the Museum Explorers Club for December at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. A Wreath Making Workshop at The Parish Rooms, on Long Street, Devizes Lions Christmas Fair at The Corn Exchange, from 9am-2:30pm.

White Horse Opera Christmas Concert at St John’s Church, Devizes. SoupChick has a “Show & Sleigh” feast in the Shambles. Black Nasty at the Southgate, James Mitchell at the Three Crowns.

Barrelhouse plays The Lamb, Marlborough, Homer are at The Bear.

The Blunders play the Barge on HoneyStreet with Dissident Noise Factory in support, there’s a Christmas market there during the daytime with Father Christmas and Mad Pete’s Magic.

Legendary local folk band, Stonegallows reunite for a final gig at the Pump, Trowbridge. The 12 Bells offers a more grungy evening with “Terrors From The Deep.” 

The Chaos Brothers play The Talbot, Calne.

Triple JD at the Old Road Tavern, Chippenham. A Ratpack Night at The Consti Club. Christmas Show at The Cause.

The 80s vs. 90s Christmas Party at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Wiltshire Jazz Academy’s December concert at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, also, Martin Cathy and Jon Wilks. Kitchen Lover at the Three Horseshoes.

Attic presents: Learning to Fly by James Rowland at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Good Times at The Woodlands Edge, Swindon, Diversify Xmas Special at the Vic.

Untamed Burlesque at Chapel Arts, Bath.

L1nkn P4rk & Foo Fakers at the Tree House, Frome. Jon Gomm & Jo Quail at the Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 10th

Matchbox Mutiny are at the White Bear, Devizes from 5pm.

The Jon Amor Trio are at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Swindon Recital Series at Swindon Arts Centre

Flash Harry @ The Cornerhouse, Frome. Frome record fair at the Cheese & Grain.

Monday 11th

Stay at home and watch Courting Ghosts, a live stream courtesy of Visual Radio Arts. Visual Radio Arts: Courting Ghosts Live Stream

Tuesday 12th

Carols and Morris dancers at the Southgate, Devizes.

The Scummy Mummies at the Civic, Trowbridge. 

Ooh, Beehive at the Beehive, Swindon, and Eric Mylod-Okafo Quartet for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak.

Steeleye Span at the Cheese & Grain.

That’s all folks, unless you know different? Drop me a line to tell me what I missed. It’s free to be listed here, but I’m partial to a chocolate cupcake now and then!

Next week is getting really Christmassy, I’ll drop some posters for stuff coming up below, but don’t miss a trick by keeping up with our updating Event Calendar.

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Song of the Week: Deadlight Dance

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Devil’s Doorbell Live EP from the Pump

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Petrichor; New Album by The Lost Trades

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Panto Time with Jack & The Beanstalk at the Wharf Theatre

He’s behind you! Oh no, he isn’t, the director of the Wharf’s panto this year, John Winterton is right in front of me, and we’re having a cuppa in the foyer!

John makes a point, pantomime is an introduction to theatre for many. I can identify, my first experience at a show being an annual amateur panto which included my younger cousin’s dance group. Showing how slim my credentials for reviewing a pantomime are, the only other one I’ve seen was decades later when we took our kids to see Peter Pan at the Bath Royal; but I know what I like and liked what I saw.

And to question the need to write this at all, being tickets are near sold out anyway; this serves to say to those without tickets, you’re missing out, and to golden ticket holders, you’re in for a fantastic treat.

Doubting my decision to attend somewhat, prior to the show. I’m a grumpy old sausage without any need of drag queen clichés, Carry-On titillation, and booing the baddie. Oh boy, did they turn my frown upside down.

Starter for ten, Jack and the Beanstalk at Devizes’ gem of a theatre contains all fundamental elements of pantomime, a loose narrative to distract from, drag, subtle smut, nonsensical comedy, breaking the fourth wall, patchwork clowns and loveable animal characters, parodies of pop songs, fairytale romance, song and dance. Save perhaps the archetypal celebrity. But who needs a Keith Chegwin or Ian from Eastenders when fourteen year old Jess Self takes the lead role of Jack, for if she’s no celebrity yet, she’s a bona-fide star.

This is where I need to take care not to add spoilers, plus note some imagination was required as this was a dress rehearsal and audience participation is key to pantomime above all others. The latter is easier than it sounds, being a big kid at heart, families, I guarantee will love this in equal measure.

To the nitty-gritty, writer Oliver Phipps has created an offbeat tribute to the folkloric fairy-tale which in essence deviates whimsically for comic scope rather than rolls traditional narrative, and tends to be mindful you’re watching a play in Devizes with local references and self-deprecating gags.

There’s atypical charming and fun characters to bounce off Jack, key to this performance is the apt casting. Oliver casts himself as the drag Dame Dotty, mother of Jack, and detonates exuberance and wit. Other notable comic creations to bind this perfect synergy is the Arlecchino patchwork clown Silly Simon, a brother of Jack’s eccentricity played by Oliver Beech, a lovably simpleton cow called Pat (geddit?) who, though we shouldn’t otherwise name-call but in this instance there’s no better way of saying, Jemma Gingell perfects the cow! And the most universal comic character, the egotistical and game show host wannabe, Spirit of the Beans, played immaculately by Jax Brady.

Other than dancers, Berrie Mildenhall, Jamie Linsley, Sienna Swain, Oliva Hibbert, Belle Stalham, and Fleur Brewer, villagers, Helen Pritchard, Ben Bryan, Poppi Lamb-Hughes and youngest actor Lucas Dowling at ten years-old, Jill, the princess love interest, played delightfully by Georgina Claridge, and villainess to boo Mrs Blunderbore, played wickedly by Hayley Baxter, all characters are comically forged, which gets my approval. Even the king and queen, so often not in pantos, are funny, acted by Corrin Barbieri and, down-to-his-jimmy-jams, Adam Sturges, respectively.

If you’re looking for a profound delineation of orthodox folklore, committed to chronicle and honour an original plot, then this isn’t for you, but if you’re not a bore, and seek true kooky panto, with genius wordplay, if you want to guffaw and giggle, sing and get involved, well, this is perfect, and you’ll have a great time. I only mention this in remembrance of my Dad, who came over all Mr Spock after every panto, groaning logic, things like, “it could’ve been coincidence the glass slipper happened to fit,” or “why didn’t Aladdin ask the genie for another three wishes as his last wish?” Pantomime is fantastical and not for overthinking, forgoing continuity and logic, this one is fantastic and matches the description.

Another crucial point of the joys of the humble Wharf Theatre, which came up in chatting with John in the foyer, was that if I bit the bullet of expense and went up the Westend to see a show, sure I’d have an unforgettable evening, but I go for the show’s title, couldn’t now recall the name of the theatre. John delighted in telling me he recognised the same faces, regulars who sit in the same seats. They come for the Wharf’s reputation; I wonder if city theatres could boast the same. The simple fact is, while the Wharf is communal, local, and affordable, it may well be amateur but strides at Neil Armstrong lengths to produce quality shows. Above glitz and glamour of Broadway, what The Wharf compares with, and prioritises, is heart.

Jack & The Beanstalk at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes opens on Friday 1st December and runs up to Saturday 9th. Tickets are sold out, but you can join the waiting list online HERE, hope for a cancelation, and take this as red, not to miss out next year!

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Swan Dies in Road Accident at The Crammer

A swan from the Crammer hit on the road between Morrison’s roundabout and the traffic lights this morning, has died…. In territorial disputes, the wildfowl…

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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On The Wayside with Viduals

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 22nd – 28th November 2023

Everything to do in Wiltshire this coming week, right in one handy listing, you know the drill, jump to it, preferably before putting your Christmas tree up, it is, after all, only mid-November; take a chill pill!

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.

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: 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 22nd

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre showing Who Framed Roger Rabbit?

Running until Friday 24th Voices for Life Extraordinary at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Kroke at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Clusterfunk at The Bell, Bath. Former ELO 2 Frontman Phil Bates Up Close And Personal Solo UK Tour at Chapel Arts.

Thursday 23rd

Kim Emery at La Bobina, Marlborough.

Dead Man’s Whiskey with  Wicked in support at Underground, Swindon. A Christmas Carol at Swindon Arts Centre, Jake Leg Jug Band at the Beehive. Luna Barge at the Tuppenny.

Entertaining Angels at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Hear my Voice, the LGBTQ+ poetry night at The Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Passenger Club at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Friday 24th

Continuing into Saturday but the main show is Friday, folks, the DOCA Winter Festival in Devizes is always a wonderful evening. With the lantern parade, light switch on, Devizes Town Band and market, it’s my obvious choice for editor’s pick of the week!

Staying in Devizes, Chicago Blues Trio at Long Street Blues Club, Stones Throw at The Three Crowns, and a lantern parade Karaoke Party at The Pelican.

But it’s Marlborough’s light switch on and market too, and Mean as Custard plays the Bear. 

Writing and Researching a novel with Keith Stuart at Chippenham library, music café at the Cause, and Kate Lomas, with Laissez Faire and others play a fundraiser in support of the new Chippenham Arts Centre, No.7.

Sad Dad Club at Stallards, Trowbridge. Parker plays the Pump, with A Bottle of Dog and Happy Dogs in support. And there’s jazz with the Stilts at the Civic.

Carmen Co at St Michael’s Church, Mere.

Red Light at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon, The Remnants at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon.

Running to Saturday, The Bean Spillers’ Improvised Musical at The Rondo Theatre, Bath. Sheer Music is at Moles with Pet Needs, the Glitchers and Nothing Rhymes With Orange in support.

Oasish Vs Stereotonics at The Vic in Swindon, Phantom Lymb at the Beehive.

Frome Lantern Parade and Christmas Light Switch on too, with The Members’ “Sound of the Suburbs tour” coming to the Tree House.

Saturday 25th

There’s a lecture at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes called The Hunt for Stourton Castle.  Adam Woodhouse is at The Three Crowns, The Worried Men at The Southgate.

Alex Roberts is at The Barge on HoneyStreet. Trash Panda at The Lamb, Marlborough, 

Static Moves at the Burbage Legion Hall, The Crofton Stokers at the Woodborough Club, 

Billy & Louie at The Crown in Aldbourne, and the Ramsbury Christmas Food and Artisan Market .

The Heart Beats at Melksham Rock n Roll Club. 

Freepeace at The Red Admiral, Trowbridge, Ed Byrne’s Tragedy Plus Time tour at the Civic.

Chippenham parkrun at Monkton, Wiltshire College & University Centre Chippenham Campus Open Day also in Chippenham. Chippenham Christmas Market at the Old Road Tavern. Spotlight 3: Modern & Contemporary Art from the Collection of Chippenham Museum, and a Pre-loved Clothes Event at Hardenhuish school. 

The Fairytale Ceilidh: A Fantastical Dance Party at Pound Arts, Corsham, and Carmen Co at Grittleton Village Hall.

Bradford-on-Avon Floating Winter Fair today, with Bath Symphony Orchestra at Wiltshire Music Centre, and Borrowed Time & The Sinictones plays The Three Horseshoes.

Justin Adams & Mauro Durante at The Bell, Bath.

Moon at The Vic in Swindon, the World Music Club at the Beehive. Stephen K Amos at Swindon Arts Centre, Swindon Old Town Comedy Club has a Winter Showcase, Gaz Brookfield is at The Hop, Post 12 at the New Inn, and The Flashback Band hold an 80’s night at The Woodlands Edge.

Craig Charles Funk & Soul House Party has sold out at the Cheese & Grain, so has Depeche Mode tribute The Devout at the Tree House, Frome.

Sunday 26th

James Oliver Band at The Southgate, Devizes.

The Stu Henderson Trio: Jazz at the Horseshoe, Mildenhall, Marlborough.

Melksham Record Fair at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Mark Simmons’ Quip Off The Mark at Swindon Arts Centre.

Wiltshire Youth Jazz Orchestra Concert with Steve Banks at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Ruzz Guitar Trio makes an appearance at The Three Horseshoes.

Schtumm…. presents Sarah McQuaid at The Queen’s Head, Box. The Schmoozenbergs are at The Bell, Bath.

Frome Vegan Fair at The Cheese & Grain.

Monday 27th

David Celia at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 28th

Sarah McQuaid at Swindon Arts Centre, and there’s a bebop blowout for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, with special guests Ian Bateman & Alex Clarke, to remember the great Jazz promoter David Knight on what would have been his birthday.

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!!!!

Have a great week!

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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.

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 thanking you…

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!

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Devizine Review of 2022!

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Wiltshire Music Centre; Proper Job!

Devizes celebrated rum bar, The Muck & Dundar are hosting a dub reggae night with Omega Nebula on Saturday, and received this week’s prestigious award of being Editor’s Pick of the Week in our weekly roundup! Because, diversity goes a long way on our local, and often insular music circuits! While there’s nothing wrong in giving folk what they’re accustomed to, offering variety scores house points from me, in towns otherwise typecast into subgenres; Devizes is a blues town, Marlborough has a penchant for goth and punk, Chippenham is folk, and so on. Where does Bradford-on-Avon sit in this pigeonholing exercise? I’m in the dark, but perhaps with good reason…..

This line of thinking for me began as I accidentally kicked a guitar case departing the Southgate on Wednesday’s regular acoustic jam night. Apology accepted by the owner of the case, he responded it happened quite often in pubs with a small space. It provoked an image of the Wiltshire Music Centre, whereby there’s a whole wall of cubby-holes in which musicians can safely store their instruments away from cider-fuelled nutjobs like me; just like coats and bag pegs at school! But it’s not the only school-like thing about this purpose-built music heaven in Bradford, it’s so functional I’d be glad to get a detention in there! I discovered this wandering their wonderful rooms in awe last winter when attending the Bradford Roots Festival. Behind every fire door was another gig going on like a classroom of music!

Concrete Prairie at Bradford Roots 2023

Now, if it seems to you slightly presumptuous to claim your venue is the “centre of music” in Wiltshire, you’ve not visited this place. Overall it seems Bradford-on-Avon offers, perhaps, the widest range of music in our smaller county towns. The lively Three Horseshoes provides free music every weekend evening, and while diverse too, favours upcoming punk and indie bands, whereas the gurt lush Boathouse tends to offer more mainstream acts. Then, they’ve got this place, Wiltshire Music Centre, the lucky buggers!

If diversity is what you’re looking for, you’ll be right at home here. Examples, while we eagerly await the lineup for this year’s Roots Festival on 20th January….huh? A festival in mid-winter, are you having a laugh, Worrow?! No, though it was the only festival I’ve been to where I had to de-ice the windscreen afterwards, it’s all under the roof of this magnificent building. I was mightily impressed by the range of acts performing there too. It was like a who’s who of local music, a convention more than a festival, and something really worth trekking down to the Bradford on the Avon for; heck, I’d go to the Bradford near Leeds for this! 

Concerts, gigs, whatchamacallits, are often backed up with interactiveness, workshops and classes, and even if you cannot make an event, they often live stream like lockdown was still a thing. Anyway, I digress, examples, that’s where I was, wasn’t I?! While we endeavour to list it all on our event calendar, there’s simply too much going on at the centre to reel it all off here and now, mostly my fault for waffling, so do look up their website HERE.

The Museum of Marvellous Things

But if diversity is what you’re after, just up till the end of the year alone, the Wiltshire Music Centre, currently running Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest, plays host to ECO:FEST, a mini festival of music and creative activity delivered in partnership with Climate Friendly Bradford on Avon, Bradford on Avon Town Council and other partners, next weekend, Nov 18th. A magical family giant puppet show which brings picture books to life for ages 3+, The Museum of Marvellous Things on the 12th, to one of the most impressive and engaging new talents in the chamber music scene, Marmen Quartet, on the 15th November.  

There’s both the Trowbridge Symphony Orchestra, on the 19th, and the Bath one, on the 25th, and in contrast there’s jazz with Steve Banks on the 26th. December brings some interesting events too, though. I’m particularly drawn to Saturday 2nd December, when Congo supergroup Kasai Masai perform their unique blend of traditional and modern African sounds. And, as we said about the interactive element before, there’s a drumming workshop beforehand with Kasai Masai. Then, on Sunday 3rd, Eastern European folk meets jazz with The Budapest Café Orchestra’s hot club swing….I should take a sleeping bag and camp in Bradford-on-Avon!

Kasai Masai

For the last twenty-five years the Wiltshire Music Centre hosts over 150 concerts a year, involving more than 1,000 professional, community and young musicians, building up a passionate community of music aficionados, players, aspiring young musicians, and amateur musicians. It provides a permanent home for local orchestras, choirs and music groups. It works extensively with young people locally, delivering an exciting Creative Learning programme in Wiltshire and beyond with 30 projects for over 5,000 young people every year, from concerts to education and community work for all ages, abilities and backgrounds.

Billy in the Lowground at Bradford Roots 2023

Their vision, “to maximise the opportunities for live music to inspire, enrich and transform people’s lives,” has a rich history since a group of visionaries recognised the lack of musical provision in the area, and set forth on an ambition to bring performances and rehearsal facilities to the community. Wiltshire Music Centre Trust Ltd is a registered charity, the founding Artistic Director, Keith Nimmo, retired in 2013 and handed the baton to current Chief Executive and Artistic Director James Slater. It is, in Wiltshire terminology, a gurt lush, proper job arts centre with a focus on music! How much more diverse can you possibly want for?!

Braford Roots 2019

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The Pirates of Penzance, Corn Exchange, Devizes 8th November 2023

By Ian Diddams

Images: Gail Foster

Four hundred years ago, if you had gone to a playhouse (such as they existed) to see a play performed you’d have seen men and boys play all the parts – it was illegal for females to be an actor. Shakespeare, Marlow, Johnson… all had their output performed by the male of the species.

Now, in the twenty-first century, we live in far more enlightened times. But that said … The Lord Chamberlain’s Men are a touring Shakespearian troupe that perform in exactly that way of four hundred years ago (incidentally as I write this The First Folio is 400 years old TODAY!). Sascha Regan has famously – or in some quarters infamously – created an all-male company that performs Gilbert and Sullivan (and very well too – close your eyes in particular and I challenge you to doubt the soprano voice singing the female character leads). Matthew Bourne has created all male ballet performances, including Swan Lake, with its light toed dance of the cygnets.

In some ways, the intervening four hundred years has upheld a seeming tradition of all male casting – although that doesn’t sit comfortably with some in those ballet and G&S worlds at least.

Pirates!



Enter stage left … Jemma Brown. Jemma is hugely supportive of Sascha Regan’s all male G&S productions. Regular readers of Devizine, and Devizes residents, will also know her as one half of the dynamic duo of Browns along with husband Anthony, who have brought the town, county and region TITCO (itself resurrected from her own parents’ company of the same name) and more latterly the “Fulltone Orchestra” aka FTO. Jemma, a very short while ago, attended an all-girl school – where she appeared in all female casts (by necessity perhaps but…) of various plays and performances… including G&S.

So it probably wasn’t a total surprise when Jemma announced that TITCO were to produce and perform an all-female cast production … of “Pirates of Penzance” the almost definitive Gilbert and Sullivan operetta, loved by many the world over for its silliness, brilliance … and stunning music. Gilbert was the sharply witted satirist for sure – but Sullivan was a magician with music. (No surprise either then that they also created “The Sorcerer”). Especially when Anthony – no small musical genius in his own right in many ways – is a massive G&S fan anyway.

And so this show was born.
I’ll interject with a personal note here (yes, I know that’s bad form!). When one watches shows that have been around for 400 years, 180 years, even 70 years… everybody has done EVERYTHING about them to death. There is nothing wrong with “tradition” of course (ask Tevye…); but if nobody bucks that tradition, then all we ever share is the SAME show over and over again. Art surely demands that different visions are tried – even if they fail.

And THIS show …. Doesn’t fail. Trust me – I’m a journalist!

Pirates!



It’s a pure “Pirates” – nobody has changed the text, lyrics, and music. Of course. But you have females playing policemen, pirates, and a Major General. Well, there’s nothing new there really is there? Cressida Dick, Anne Bonny, Sharon Nesmith – for starters. (Google is your friend if you don’t follow that list…). But – I digress. What of the show?

An opening night audience of well above a hundred speaks volumes in itself. There is a low-level installed stage – eschewing the Corn Exchange’s in place elevated stage – simply yet perfectly lit by the excellent as ever Phil McClounan. Sound by Chris Worthy, which was clear throughout the evening. And of course, the musical accompaniment by the versatile and ridiculously talented Dominic Irving.

And then … the cast. Well… for those that have followed TITCO over the past fourteen years, there are some familiar faces and names, but the real MAGIC of THIS show has been Jemma’s ability to bring others into the fold. From those that are already used to treading the boards to complete first timers. Oh yes – there are some involved for whom this is the first EVER show. Not that you would know watching… it’s a rumbunctious, effervescent, and vigorous non-stop hundred-minute performance. But don’t worry – you’ve twenty minutes to have a pee in the interval and grab a drink to relax into the second half!

Pirates!



Being all-female naturally, one may expect the female roles to work well – well, of COURSE they do! Especially with the supreme talents of Terésa Isaacson as Ruth, solos, duets, and triplets delivered with consummate ease. And also, of course, Grace Sheridan as Edith and Georgia Watson as Kate, two daughters of the Major General. And of course, then there is Mabel… OMFG! This production is worth seeing in its own right, but if you need any further convincing, just go to listen to Daisy Woodruffe, totally NAIL Mabel. Wonderful, wonderful stuff from all four!

But – and here is the elephant in the room I sense in some quarters – how do these women deliver all those male characters. You know, the Pirates (or Pilots – what?) and Policemen, especially the Pirate King, Seargeant, and that bloke with the daft birthday, Frederic? Well… what can I say? You don’t get Bryn Terfel for sure – but then I doubt Bryn could deliver Mabel for all his brilliance and training, so its 15-all and new balls, please, and YES – of COURSE they deliver. In fact, it’s this aspect that really, really makes the show. You can’t put a fag paper between the excellence in delivery of all four major “male” characters here. Mari Webster is simply superb – and believable – as the Pirate King, all swashbuckling and forthright. And I rarely say that orphan. Sarah Davies with her Brummy Seargeant and wonderfully choreographed daft policemen – Debby Wilkinson, Mel Coombe and Amanda Kapoor, almost steal the show. And Frederic… now, G&S and even Pirates (which is pretty daft as a concept!) is never pantomime (oh yes it is, no it isn’t… etc). But the concept of a principal boy is a well-established principle (and principal) in British Theatre and Naomi Ibbetson demonstrates that principle in her principal role to perfection… and her beautiful voice against Daisy’s in “Oh, here is love, and here is truth” is as good as any you will hear anywhere, in any company. That leaves Tina Duffin as the major-general. Now – we all know the song we want to hear that character sing. It’s not an easy song to deliver – its wordy, its tongue-twisty, its LONG! There is no respite. But Tina delivers it clearly, crisply, and absolutely spot on. Bravo!

There is one more male character that orphan gets overlooked. Samuel. Samuel is a sort of Gilbert “tack on” – I’ve always got the impression Gilbert had something more to say but had run out of characters to say it, so Samuel got invented. Samuel is played by Laura Deacon. And is probably the best Samuel I’ve ever seen (sorry to people I know who have played the role!). Meaty, meaningful, and really sold the character as not just a Gilbert write in. Double Bravo.

And that leaves the rest of the ensemble… no lumpen chorus here (thanks to Gail of Devizes for that perfect phrase). Lots of pirates and daughters filling the stage – and theatre floor too at times – with “business” and keeping the joyful atmosphere going. I said right at the beginning that for some of these ensemble this was their first ever show, performing in front of people, let alone over a hundred. Bravo to them especially. Bravo to answering the call, stepping up, being in it to win it. Bravo for learning the songs and being joyful. Bloody bravo.

If you like G&S – go. If you don’t like G&S because you got dragged through it at school, go, or your mum and dad dragged you out to performances 40 years ago when a less “free” interpretation was available – go. If you think all female casts are “wrong” – go… you may just find you enjoy it because after a very short while you really won’t notice it.

Pirates!



And if you still don’t like it – just buy a ticket and go anyway. Because it’s the 21st century, and after all, it’s really not that much different than what was happening 400 years ago anyway in many ways.

“The Pirates of Penzance”, performed by TITCO All-Female cast, is in performance at the Corn Exchange, Devizes at 7.30pm every night until 11th November.



Tickets are available from https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/titco, and Devizes Books.

Comical Poetry in Devizes Town Hall with Henry Normal and Nigel Planer

Images by Gail Foster

Feeling a tad grumpy and under the weather, what with returning home from work soaked to the skin every day, venturing out on a Friday evening looking forward to the prospect of another downpour come morning is not a decision taken lightly. You’d be forgiven for assuming taking said plunge to watch two self-confessed old guys reading poetry in Devizes Town Hall would be a definite no-no, but this was comedy legends Henry Normal and Nigel Planer; twist my arm why don’t you?

Kudos as a starter for ten for hosting such an entertaining touring show in our humble town. While Devizes Books deserves a mention for the books are in said store, sure, it was a promotional tool for the respected author’s outpourings, but it was well received and the type of event you couldn’t have got any closer up and personal to two renowned characters without taking them to bed, which didn’t happen as far as I’m aware, (Mrs Devizine would’ve sounded me out) though I confess to being unusually starstruck by Mr Planer’s presence! I kept imagining him waving his eight arms around when the genie granted his wish, “Rick! Rick! Ya gotta see this man! You’re gonna freak!”

‘Cos I was an impressionable nine-year-old when The Young Ones came on the telebox, heralding in a new wave of alternative comedy to the masses. I’d suggest though the magnetism between Rick and Adrian was the making of it, it was half-baked and only progressed later through Filthy Rich & Catflap and Bottom, Neil was arguably the most well-defined character. His comedy pop career legacy is also kingpin to why he was my personal favourite, even prior to my student hippy phase, I hasten to add.

Henry Normal & Nigel Planer Poetry & Comedy Night, Devizes

If The Goons had given our parents surreal comedy, and Monty Python twisted psychedelia into the melting pot, Britain wasn’t prepared for the anarchistic new wave of Footlights’ and The Comedy Store comedians. It was in essence, punk comedy, our parents doubting if we should be allowed to watch it a catalyst to why we had to. To read the prolific Henry’s résumé is like a who’s who of comedy, and his co-writing TV credits, Mrs Merton Show, The Royle Family, Gavin and Stacey, Red Dwarf, The Mighty Boosh, Alan Partridge, and so many others all display clear roots in the alternative comedy of the eighties, so too did his performance last night.

Though Normal spent this impressive career mostly on the other side of the camera, his charisma as a working-class Midlands lad was projected with such proficiency and hilarity he could fill-in for, even upstage any stand-up comic, and that’s the pinnacle of any comedian. His customary, wry satirical stabs at conservatism were applauded, in Devizes Town Hall, and this made me smirk! Though he did make me promise not to repeat his jokes, which I had no intention of, only here to express how hilarious they were; tins of fruit salad though, I remember well, thanks for jogging my memory!

Though the sublime observation comedy routines of a reminiscing matured fellow dealing with the confusion of a modern era were but foundations for his poignant poetry. And if these introductions were comical the end result was thought-provoking and often sombre in reflection, the contrast his delivery style, the result was inspiring, even if poetry is not usually my forte.

Henry Normal & Nigel Planer Poetry & Comedy Night, Devizes

Surprisingly through both these two prestigious careers in TV and radio, they never professionally worked together in this field, rather they united through their love of poetry in the mid-nineties. Equally surprising to note Nigel’s stage impromptu presence was less stand-up routine than Henry’s, evident he saw himself more actor than writer, still he presented a lifetime range of poetry from one his books, a poetry collection, decidedly more out there and experimental, though equally as skilled. One particularly ingenious verse compared all traditional poetry methods by using each method respectively; it overload my dullard mind by comparison, but finger in the air, boy, that was smart. 

Similarly to Henry’s stint, the interludes were amusing and enlightening, as he openly and passionately discussed the character of Neil, giving insight to its creation prior to appearing on the Young Ones. The only question I had for him was to ask how much of himself he put into the character, but the sheer enthusiasm of his backstory answered this for me. Heavy, I must’ve, like, had a backward premonition, man!

Nigel fascinated us by reading selected passages from his book, Jeremiah Bourne in Time, a genre-spanning time travelling slice of intelligent fiction, and after another bout of fine poetry from Henry, leaving us with a jaw-dropping final prose, there was an informal Q&A session, where hands went up to ask all manner of queries, only one about roller-coasters being surreal enough to fit the agenda of a younger Henry and Nigel, though today reminiscing was both paramount and favourable for the equally matured audience.

And two ageing fellows reminiscing and reflecting on two glorious vocations was less Uncle Albert than you might assume, given their illustrious life journeys. Throughout they opened up about their personal lives, yeah, name-dropped a bit but who wouldn’t?! Through hardship, fame, parenting and divorce they mustered enough ammo to present their view on maturing and the modern world, yet never without this tinge of nostalgic anarchism, the like which embedded their names on the cornerstone of British comedy.  

Henry Normal & Nigel Planer Poetry & Comedy Night, Devizes

An entirely different night for me, who’s last presence at a poetry slam was never, though I had our hometown poet laureate Gail Foster on hand not only to steal her photos, but to cast a more critical and professional eye, and she seemed to love it too! As an amateur so-called comedy writer I came away inspired to push on with my own wares, though I had to draft this piece out of respect for such a great night from two exhilarating luminaries, and get my rainwear out for another round of milkmanship.

Wasn’t there an episode of the Young Ones with a flood, whereby the gang try to kill Neil with an electric hedge-trimmer, only to be distracted by Mr. Balowski breaking down the door to Neil’s room with an axe?! Glad to say nothing this exciting happened on the milk round, and, like Vyvyan’s hamster, Neil escaped with his life, because last night was thoroughly enjoyable; do catch the tour if it comes your way!

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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.

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 thanking you…

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!”

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.

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 thanking you…

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!

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DOCA Step into Christmas!

As sparkly as Elton John at his most sparkliest, Devizes Outdoor Celebratory Arts pulled the tinsel out of bag for the annual Winter Festival…

Devizine Podcast Pilot!

Okay, so, everyone is doing a podcast these days, and I’m a sucker which finds it impossible to go against the grain. Here’s my…

SGO Folk Up The Southgate

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Happy Jack at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, October 23-28, 2023

By Mick Brian

Images by Chris Watkins Media

Take a play written in 1982, about two people born in 1914, from West Yorkshire. Written by a professional playwright with huge global stage hits to his name……..

Perform it in a theatre in 2023, with two actors born in the early 1960s, in Wiltshire. Directed by a retired head teacher with much local based success in community theatre.

What do you get?

Let us take a step back from that question for now…

John Godber, of “Bouncers” (1977) fame was a schoolteacher and then professional writer, who crafted this biographical play about his own grandparents. It was his first ever play, written when he was 25 years old, as it happens, though it didn’t see the light of day publicly for some while. It is written in reverse chronology. That is, the play opens with the two protagonists, Jack and Liz, in their later years and works its way backwards through their lives…  from death, to married life and its tribulations and joys, to being grandparents, and parents, marriage, honeymoon, courtship and that first date.

Jack is a cantankerous, bullish miner. Liz is a far from kowtowed Yorkshire lass who gives as good as she gets, and in snippets we glean from the story holds all the aces in the relationship in reality.

Jack is played by Ian Diddams, Liz by Wendy Dopheide. Both are the same age in real life, as we meet them as their characters at the start of the play. Whilst by the end of the play they are aged seventeen, so wonderful are their portrayals that it easy to see via their mannerisms and control of voice that they pass for such youthful individuals. Ian is a no stranger to the Wharf Theatre, whilst this is Wendy’s first appearance there. The play is directed by Lyn Taylor, who has both directed and performed across Wiltshire.  Technical is headed up by Jon Lewthwaite, more than ably assisted by a multitude of talented people sliding sliders, making noises, and pressing buttons! There are also two other characters in this play, unlisted…  Wendy and Ian as themselves, as narrators. Godber’s writing and their acting flips effortlessly between southern English 21st century actors, and an early to mid-20th century Yorkshire couple. Then there are the side characters, played by the same two actors. Here Wendy gets kudos for also playing not only herself and Liz, but also a grandson, a ticket seller, a barman and a neighbour. Ian merely has to double up once – he gets the easy ride clearly. Oh – and I nearly forgot…  take your time and think carefully…  you may even spot the un-named John Godber in the play…

So – back to that question…  What do you get?  You get something quite excellent.


Now – lets be fair …  great shows start with a great playwright, so take a bow John Godber. It is a play that is fifty-five pages long of quite small font. Both characters have over four hundred and seventy lines of dialogue each. Hamlet is Shakespeare’s longest play. In its entirety it is over FOUR HOURS LONG to perform. Its titular character has three hundred and fifty-eight lines. Horatio has the next largest number of lines …  at a hundred and nine.

Let that sink in a moment.

So – how does it stack up? It’s a simple, even stark, set that sets the tone nonetheless perfectly.  A hatstand, a bookshelf, a coal scuttle and a gramophone represent Jack and Liz’s home. Two chairs centre stage complete the set. But these are no ordinary chairs. They not only represent easy chairs and dining chairs but also a bath, a birthing table, a washstand, railings, and a bench. Less is more they say and here director Lyn’s vision really comes to the fore. Allied to this is a wonderfully choreographed lighting set – want a fireplace with flickering flames? No problem.  A northern nightclub with glittering lights?  A doddle. How about a cinema?  Easy-peasy.  Not to forget some wonderfully evocative sound effects…  seaside, cinema again, and of course and obviously (!) the Tower Ballroom at Blackpool.

Costumes are simple but effective with minimal fuss. Working class garb with outer garments garnered from the aforementioned hatstand.

And then there’s the music. Mario Lanza, John Hanson, Kitty Kallen, Reginald Dixon…  amongst others. Their doleful tones – and tunes – haunt the first act in particular. And a memorable rendition of a duet by Maurice Chevalier and Hermione Gingold.

And that’s it. Just under two hours including an interval gives you an insight into a 20th century Yorkshire miner’s family. Two wonderful performances by Wendy and Ian, great directing by Lyn, and top technical input by “the crew”.

Do yourself a favour and get to see this, this week at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes.

And returning to that question at the very start of this piece once again…

What do you get?
You get community theatre at its finest.


Tickets available from the box Office on 0333 666 3366 or online at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-wharf-theatre/happy-jack/

Town Council Register Warm Spaces Devizes

Like a descriptive paragraph from a Dicken’s novel, as similar across the UK this season, Devizes Town Council has provided information about a local “warm…

Review: Cracked Machine at the Southgate

by Ben Romain and Victoria Stanley Following a night in the Corn Exchange Friday, the chance arose for something completely different, something new to our…

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.

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 thanking you…

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!

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Barrelhouse Rams The Gate!

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Female of the Species; Deadlier in Seend!

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Shakespeare Live – Autumn Tour

An early and rarely-performed play, ‘Two Gentlemen of Verona’ has feisty heroines, lovelorn & bickering young men, dictatorial parents, foolish suitors, cross-dressing, letters galore, wild outlaws, witty servants, a big fight, and a lugubrious clown with a dog, and Shakespeare Live are touring Wiltshire with it, So buyeth thy ticket f’r the p’rf’rmance….

Shakespeare Live, best known for over 30 years of outdoor productions in Wiltshire, have been touring their popular annual autumn show for several years, focusing on plays less often performed or on original Shakespeare-based pieces. This year, as often before the pandemic,  the production was picked by the RSC for performance at their open-air Dell space in Stratford upon Avon in August.

Directed by Gill Morrell. featuring well-known Shakespeare Live actors together with some talented newcomers, including Bernard the golden retriever, and featuring fabulous medieval costumes and live original music, Shakespeare Live promises ninety minutes of fast, furious, and very, very funny entertainment.

The autumn tour starts on Saturday 14th October at The Cause in Chippenham, then The Merlin in Frome on Sunday 15th, two nights at The Mission (Tuesday 17th and Wednesday 18th), The Town Hall in Corsham on Thursday 19th, and the final show at The Marden House Centre in Calne on Friday 20th. All shows start at 8pm and tickets are £14 from www.shakespearelive.com.

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Anyone For Table Tennis at Hillworth Park?

Yep, it’s true, Devizes’ wonderful Hillworth Park is to get an all-weather outdoor table tennis table, installed over the coming weeks, agreed at a Devizes…

Wiltshire Against the Badger Cull Expresses Outrage as Farmer Buried an Active Badger Sett

Amidst the number of other suspicious, much less futilely brutal activities, in the pursuit of rural blood sports, we’re currently knee-deep in the badger cull,…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 11th – 17th October 2023

Here I am again, like Huey Lewis…..with the news. No national headlines though, no, that’s all too depressing, just the lowdown on things to do this coming week across our gurt lush county of agricultural rolling downs, neolithic monuments, and a seemingly endless succession of Greggs bakeries…..

Okay my little sausage and bean melts, 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.

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.  

Final days to pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE, this ends on October 15th.

Oh, and this above, and this below, clowns, in Chippenham, a must-see!

Wednesday 11th

Regular Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Calne Music & Arts Festival continues. The Avebury Vocal Ensemble, and a Calne Wordfest Writers’ Group at Marden House during the afternoon, and standup comedy with Graham Coulam introducing Paul Ricketts and Steve Gribbin in the evening.

There’s a lunchtime recital at Pound Arts, Corsham with pianist Simeon Walker.

Opening at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon and running until the 15th, Salos Presents Elf, The Musical…too early? Too late! 

Thursday 12th

Calne Music & Arts Festival has The Primary School Choirs in concert at Kingsbury Green Academy Hall, and Calne Speech and Drama School present ‘Sea, the Fool, the Devil and the Cats’ by Ted Hughes at Marden House, followed by some jazz with The Nick Sorensen Trio.

Sean Collins’ Smokin Funny arrives at Swindon Arts Centre, Andy Oliveri & Kizzie at The Tuppenny, Swindon.

Kiki Dee & Carmelo Luggeri’s The Long Ride Home Tour comes to Chapel Arts, Bath.

Friday 13th

Join Devizes OpenDoors’s Big Sleep Out and help raise funds to support homeless and vulnerable adults in our community. You can sleep out at St James’ Church in Devizes, organise your own sleep out at work, at school, even in the garden at home, or pay to stay in bed by making a donation. Find out more and register at devizesopendoors.org.uk

Thud and Adam Woodhouse at the Southgate, Devizes, Mike Zito & Albert Castiglia with Band @ Long Street Blues Club.

Calne Music & Arts Festival has Ukrainian Jazz Harpist Alina Bzhezhinska in Concert at Marden House, followed by The Lost Trades.

Wilts & Berks Canal Trust Quiz Night at The Neeld, Chippenham.

My Octopus Mind plays the Pump in Trowbridge, with The Message in support.

Jazz at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, with Dario Napoli Hot Club. Start the Sirens & Ophella Waiting at The Three Horseshoes. 

An Evening Of Mediumship With Nikki Kitt at Swindon Arts Centre, Soulweaver Reigniting The Fire at Underground, formerly Level III, Bedrock at The Queens Tap, Evanescence of Fire at The Vic.

Rusty Shackle, Ninotchka and Concrete Prairie play Komedia, in Bath, Damien O’Kane & the Ron Block Band are at Chapel Arts. 

Saturday 14th

Marlborough Mop Fair. The Magnitones play St Michael’s in Aldbourne. 

It’s the Lions Arts Coaching Day in Devizes, and a first, I believe, for Danny & The Randoms who play at The Three Crowns, and The Unpredictables, Finely Trusler’s new ensemble play the Moonrakers. The Jack Grace Band is at the Southgate.

Pig Race night at Erlestoke Golf Club! Bring your own ketchup!

Dub roots reggae at The Barge on HoneyStreet with Jah Lion Movement.

Be Like Will play Stallards in Trowbridge.

Editor’s Pick of the Week is Amelia Coburn is at the Pump in Trowbridge, with Ruby Darbyshire and MEG in support.

There’s seven acts playing Hullavington Live at The Village Hall, and it’s free entry.

At Calne Music & Arts Festival, “Flowers in art from Botticelli to Hockney,” a talk by Gail Brown followed by ‘Meet the Artists’ with Cathy and Nick Pearce and ‘HMS Pinafore’ – presented by Opera Anywhere. 

Taylor Swift tribute Katy Ellis at The Pewsham, Chippenham.

Back to the eighties party night at Spencer’s Club, Melksham.

I’ve Every Whitney at Kingsdown Golf Club, Corsham.

Brodsky Quartet 50th Anniversary of the Shostakovich Cycle at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Dreamwave at The Three Horseshoes.

Happy Dogs at HMV Bath at 3pm.

Carl Hutchinson – Watch Till The End at Swindon Arts Centre, David Flynn Memorial night at The Vic, Swindon, Concrete Prairie at Rodbourne Cheney Social Club, The BeatRoutes at The Castle, Rockabilly Rumble at The Queens Tap, Homer at the Rolleston, Dimensions at North Swindon Club, Vicky Jackson is PINK at Underground, and Swindon Ska Fest at The Moonrakers.

Sunday 15th

All About The Music Record Fair at Devizes Conservative Club from 10am-4pm.

PSG Choirs are at Marlborough Town Hall for an Autumn Concert. Starts at 6pm, tickets are £8.

Gothic Acoustic Matinee with Deadlight Dance at the Blue Boar, Aldbourne.

Calne Music & Arts Festival has Evensong at St. Mary’s Parish Church, and a Photographic Talk – ‘Arctica’ with Pam and Eddy Lane at Marden House.

Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon have Groove Baby Grooving With Pirates!

Below the Salt at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Waterlines at Underground, Swindon, an Elvis tribute at The Castle, and Damn at the North Swindon Club, and SGO at The Tuppenny.

Monday 16th

Sounds of the 60s Live with Tony Blackburn at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Tuesday 17th

Do You Believe In Ghosts at The Wyvern Theatre, while the Eric Mylod Okafo Quartet take the Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon.

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 this week Devizine has hit level on 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!

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Lou Trigg, and Some Flowers

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Remembrance Service in Devizes, 2022

Featured image: Remembrance Sunday 2019, Devizes by Gail Foster. With thanks to the secretary of The Devizes Branch of the Royal British Legion, Vera…

World War One play The Last Post heads to Devizes’ The Wharf Theatre this November

A new World War One play will be coming to Devizes’ Wharf Theatre this November, ahead of Remembrance Day……

The Last Post brings to life a series of letters between a boy in Folkestone and his father who is fighting on the Western Front in Belgium.  The span of the play is 70 years but begins in 1914.  William Downing is desperate for his father Joseph to come home in time for Christmas. That this sentiment was so rooted in the reality of all the soldiers and their families of the time makes this play so poignant.

The show is suitable for the whole family, and the eighteen-show run across England is the first time that the moving adaptation of Keith Campion’s book will be in theatres, following a hugely successful run in schools last year.

The theatrical adaptation of The Last Post is performed by just three actors, taking on a multitude of characters from ten-year-old boys to, in one memorable scene, Lord Kitchener himself.  The skill of the actors mean that the show is always entertaining but grounded in reality.

The play is produced by Hobgoblin Theatre Company, a leading Theatre-In-Education company, which gives thousands of children their first taste of theatre every year.

Dan Foley, the show’s director, said, “When Keith approached us to adapt his book we leapt at the chance. The book has been a fantastic resource for teaching World War One in the classroom and we felt a stage version could reach even more people.”

“After the reaction from schools last year, we knew this was a special piece and deserved to be in theatres. Keith’s story offers an insight into the reality of life at home and on the war front ahead of Armistice Day, 105 years on from the end of World War One.”

The challenge of turning written letters into an engaging piece of theatre has been dealt with by using a split stage and multimedia projections.  The books author, Keith Campion agrees. “I am delighted with this incredible adaptation of The Last Post.  Powerful and poignant, it brings the book alive in an accessible and moving way for young children and families.”

“The danger when teaching events from over 100 years ago is that they can end up becoming a dry list of battles and political changes that lose children. By putting them through the eyes of a person their own age, then children become engaged,” continues Dan.

“We feel strongly that the story of the Great War is just as powerful now. We hope the people of Devizes will agree.”

The show will be on at The Wharf Theatre on 11th November at 1:30pm. Tickets are available HERE.

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Excelsior and Some Worried Men

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Devizes Public Living Room Finds New Home

It’s great news today, as the social circle Devizes Public Living Room has been offered The Cheese Hall to continue their weekly gatherings, by Devizes…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 4th – 10th October 2023

Righty-oh, no time for messing about, we’ve lots to get through…. What have I become?!! There’s always time for messing around. Here’s a snapshot of Professor Elemental last time he was in Trowbridge to prove it; he’s back at the Pump this Saturday, you won’t find another hip hop gig quite the same!

But we do have lots of things to do this weekend in wonderful Wiltshire, here’s what we’ve found, but do check in the event calendar, as it will be updated whereas this won’t. So, to make it clear to all:

HERE IS THE EVENT CALENDAR!

Please, if you can donate a little something to keep us going, do, that’s all I ask. We need to fund this, people. For info on how, see HERE.  

Pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE, this ends on October 15th.

Oh, and check out Si Griffiths’ Clown Soup at the Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham too!

Wednesday 4th:

The Edward Twohigre exhibit at Katharine House Gallery in Marlborough opens on Saturday, but there’s a walk and talk session today, see the poster. 

The Regular Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes

Swindon’s Old Town Comedy Club at The Hop Inn has headliner Louise Leigh. Swindon Music Service presents A Night at The Proms at The Wyvern Theatre.

George Mabuza Group at The Bell, Bath.

Nik Kershaw at the Cheese & Grain has sold out.

Thursday 5th:

Ruled by Raptors at The Vic, Swindon, Quo, Fish, Boazard at The Tuppeny. Geoff Norcott  plays Swindon Arts Centre, and Sarah Millican’s Late Bloomer is at The Wyvern Theatre.

Friday 6th:

Friday sees the opening of the Calne Music & Arts Festival running from 6th-15th October. There’s a private view opening for the Art Exhibition at Marden House. From thereafter the Open Art Exhibition will be on display throughout the Festival.

Wilswood Buoys play the Pump, Trowbrige, with Meg, Ed Dyke and Henshaw in support.

Plan of Action play the Parson’s Nose in Melksham.

An Evening of Mediumship with Nikki Kitt at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Platform 4: Triffids! At Pound Arts, Corsham, I’ve no idea what that is but it sounds interesting!

Coleview Music Festival begins in Swindon, elsewhere in the town, Giselle at The Wyvern Theatre, and Swan Lake. KERRANG’D at The Vic, Fleisch at Underground, Texas Tick Fever at the Beehive, and Bazooka Joe at The Queens Tap.

Ant Trouble play a free gig at The Royal Oak, Bath; this is one of the best, if not the best tribute acts I’ve EVER seen, Adam & the Ants fans be warned, you will mislay the last forty years! Also, find the Titus Reggae Band at Chapel Arts.

Nicky Blackmarket is up for a banger at 23 Bath Street, Frome, Mik Artistik’s Ego Trip is at The Tree House, Laurence Jones at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 7th:

I believe I have the right date this time around! It’s Marlborough Mop Fair, and find @59 at The Lamb in Marlborough.

Grizzly at The Barge, HoneyStreet.

In Devizes, there’s the Fantasy Radio screening Faith, Hope & Charity at the Wharf Theatre, but I believe this is sold out, I’m not 100% sure. But, get on those tabletops, People Like Us play The Three Crowns, Split Whiskers at The Southgate, and Rockhoppaz at The Crown. 

Staying in Devizes, the White Horse Opera’s Gala Concert at Devizes Town Hall, and calling all honey lovers & bee enthusiasts, The Annual Wiltshire Bee & Honey day is at The Corn Exchange, Devizes.

But Editor’s Pick of the Week goes to Long Street Blues Club, they’ve got The Billy Walton Band.

Grief Opera’s Love Goes On at St Andrews in Chippenham.

Free Family Day at Calne Music & Arts Festival from 11-4pm. There will be 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! Refreshments and light lunches will be available. Children must be supervised at all times. 

Calne Choral Society kick off the music, performing Fauré’s Requiem at St.Mary’s Church, and it’s onto Truckstop Honeymoon at Marden House, Calne.

41 Fords are at the Pilot, Melksham.

Frank Zappa tribute, Burger & The Beast at Stallards, Trowbridge, while Professor Elemental is at the Pump, with Devil’s Doorbell in support, that has to be editor’s pick of week, or have I done that already? Can I have two?! I think I can, I’ll just check with my legal department! 

Kirsty Clinch at Suave in Westbury.

REME Museum, at MOD Lyneham has an Annual Model Show.

Sam Avery at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, Tool Shed at The Vic, Fuzz at The Woodland Edge, Jim Blair at the Castle, Last Train Smoking at The Queens Tap, DV8 at North Swindon Club, and Sonic Alert at The Wine Bar, Highworth.

October Live at the New Inn Amesbury is looking good, with Illingworth, Becca Maul, Tipsy Gypsies, and The Duskers.

Harvest, what an album! The Songs of Neil Young from the album are performed by Orange River Remedy at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Frome record fair in the daytime at the Cheese & Grain, Think Floyd in the evening, and 

The Sums (Sum 41 Tribute) & Riot! (Paramore Tribute) at The Tree House.

Sunday 8th

TwoManTing at The Southgate, Devizes’ I love those guys!

Triple JD at The Red Lion, Lacock.

Darts tournament at the Civic in Trowbridge.

Calne Music & Arts Festival has Jemima Palfreyman – Piano Snapshots from Mussorgsky to Broadway and everything in between and Life Drawing workshops.

Scott Bennett at Swindon Arts Centre, Corsairs at the North Swindon Club.

Monday 9th

Visual Radio Arts has a live stream, free to view, of The Honey Pot.

Calne Music & Arts Festival has a Guitar Recital from Mark Willcocks, rising star Sammy Till-Vattier in concert, I’ve seen this St.John’s, Marlborough prodigy at MantonFest, and it’s something amazing. There’s a Drink & Draw at the Lansdowne Strand Hotel too.

Filskit Theatre: Wonder Gigs at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Tuesday 10th

Pewsham Scarecrow Trail starts at King’s Lodge School, running until 14th October.

Calne Music & Arts Festival have Yoga in Art, Music Scholars of Marlborough College In Concert, and Jazz Club – Introducing Amadou Diagne in concert with the Touki Trio

Talking Jazz, the only other thing I’ve got on Tuesday so far, is the regular Jazz Knights sessions at The Royal Oak in Swindon. They’ve got Bluprint, which is Daniel Newberry Saxophone, Guy Shotton Organ, and Alex Goodyear, Drums.

But we will have updates as the week goes on, so check in on the….

EVENT CALENDAR!

You need this to plan ahead too, so do yourself a favour and bookmark that page! Have a great weekend and don’t even utter the C-word, it’s only October for crying out loud! I know, you’re excited, me too, nearly wet my knickers thinking about those jingle bells!

Trending…..

Swindon Paint Fest: Live Street Art in October

Though Ken White’s murals have been seen across Swindon for decades, particularly his Golden Lion at the Whale Bridge roundabout on Fleming Way, contemporary street…

I Shuffled in Swindon, and I Liked It!

Yep, It’s Swindon Shuffle weekend, and so I thought it best to poke my nose in….. Voice recognition they call it, I call it defective…

Furlong Close Celebration

Residents of Furlong Close in Rowde mingled with staff, the new owners, villagers, councillors, and many of the campaigners which made up the Familes and…

Sheer Music Grand Return to Devizes

Ah, it’s on the grapevine alright; godfather of Wiltshire’s millennial live indie scene, Kieran Moore isn’t sneaking in the back door with his tail between…

A Baroque Blast at St Mary’s!

Kaffeehaus Culture comes to St Mary’s, Devizes on the 1st of October, bringing you some Bach, Handel & Telemann…… The acoustically rich space of St…

Devizes Parish Wins Prestigious Award for Future Plans

The parish of St John with St Mary in Devizes has won a prestigious award for its plans for St Mary’s Church on New Park Street in the town.…

Last Friday, the town centre parish won the Innovation prize at the annual awards of the Diocesan Advisory Committee for Salisbury, the church body which examines and approves proposed changes to churches in most of Wiltshire and Dorset.

Nigel Carter of St Mary’s Devizes Trust said, “We were delighted to win the top prize for ‘Innovation’ for our plans to revitalise St Mary’s, making it fit for a wide range of community and artistic uses for decades to come while remaining a place of worship.”

The Rev’d Gerry Lynch, Curate of St John with St Mary, Devizes said, “Credit for the proposals for the future St Mary’s of winning an award is shared between many people who have put their time, energy, and imagination into ensuring this spectacular Grade I listed building is a blessing for the people of Devizes for generations to come. Both the parish and the St Mary’s Devizes Trust have played an enormous part.”

“Churchgoers and non-churchgoers from a wide range of interests, over many years, have worked so hard and all it’s a pity that all of them couldn’t have come down to Salisbury to receive the award together, as all of them deserved it.”

left-to-right: Nigel Carter, St Mary’s Devizes Trust; the Rt Rev’d Andrew Rumsey, Bishop of Ramsbury; the Rev’d Gerry Lynch, St John with St Mary, Devizes.

Devizine would like to congratulate everyone who has worked so hard on this ambitious and exciting project, and we look forward to a time when the work is complete and a programme of events is on the horizon. Nigel expressed, “we have a formidable fundraising task – similar to that associated with the Assize Courts – so maybe five years before completion.”

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 27th September-3rd October 2023

Summer is done and dusted, you’ve got to lower yourself onto the toilet seat that little bit steadier, as we move into autumn. Still, the silver lining is there’s always lots to do locally; here’s what we’ve found coming up this week….

Not comprehensive, as I tell you each time, more will be added to our event calendar as we move through the week and they come to our attention, so check in on it from time to time. If you don’t let us know about your event you cannot expect it to be here, drop us a line and guarantee it’s listed here, it costs nothing.

Please, if you can donate a little something to keep us going, do, that’s all I ask. We need to fund this, and any extra will be put into hosting events, something we would like to do more of but without financial support it makes it impossible. Any donations will be kindly accepted, you will get special attention, and we thank you. For info on how, see HERE.  

Pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE, this ends on October 1st.

Ongoing until 29th Sept, The Incredible Quizzical Bath Pub Tour.

Clown Soup exhibit by Si Griffiths at the Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham. 

Devizes Food & Drink Festival is up and running, until 1st October.

Wednesday 27th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Subject A at The Bell, Bath.

ZambaLando at “Moose Hall” Old Town, Swindon, Lunchtime Recital at The Wyvern Theatre, with Ed Byrne’s Tragedy Plus Time in the evening.

Thursday 28th

Devizes Film Club Presents Lunana at The Wharf Theatre, and there’s a Murder Mystery Dinner at The Corn Exchange.

Marlborough Literature Festival opens, running until 1st October.

The Unravelling Wilburys at Melksham Assembly Hall.

The Last Baguette’s Playtime! at Pound Arts in Corsham, with the The Jackie Oates Trio in the evening.

Zambalando plays Savernake Street Hall, Swindon, Guy Tortora at The Tuppenny, Cooper Creek at The Beehive. Big Drink, One Man Boycott, Liddington Hill and the Starkers at The Vic. Magic Of Motown at The Wyvern Theatre, and the Phoenix Players – ‘I Thought I Heard A Rustling’ at Swindon Arts Centre, running until Saturday 30th.

Ed Byrne’s Tragedy Plus Time goes to the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 29th

The Unpredictables are at The Churchill Arms in West Lavington.

Autumn Beer Festival at The Bell, Lacock.

Open Mic at Marlborough Town FC. El Toro at The Bear, Marlborough.

Sice Boo from The Boo Radleys’ ‘The Secret of Happiness’ at The Pump in Trowbridge.

Martin Kemp’s Back to the 80s at The Civic.

There’s a 24 hour Danceathon at Cumberwell Park Golf Club in Bradford-on-Avon, for the Fearless charity.

The Unravelling Wilburys at The Athenæum, Warminster.

Diverse Disco, a party for disabled and learning difficulties, at The Tree, Swindon. The Britpop Band at the Vic, The Heretic Order and The Self Titled at Swindon Underground (formerly Level III,) Devizes Road Oktoberfest at the Tuppeny in Swindon continues all weekend. Echo at the Queen’s Tap. Tea & Tour of the Spotlight Room at Wyvern Theatre, followed by Babatunde Aleshe’s Babahood.

LGBTQ+ poetry night, Hear my Voice at Rondo Theatre, Bath, The Alter Eagles at Chapel Arts. 

The Tom Petty Legacy at the Tree House, Frome, with Graham Parker & the Goldtops at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 30th

Leburn Maddox at The Southgate, Devizes, Illingworth at The Three Crowns, Strange Folk at The Lamb.

There’s also a grand lineup at The Crown, Bishops Cannings, with music from 4pm, Steve Morano Band, Talk in Code and Purple Fish. they’ve a fire-dancer between the acts, BBQ and pizza, free entry, splendid pub, twist my arm, why don’t you?!

There’s the Hillbillies at the Barge on HoneyStreet, and The Monkey Dolls at The Lamb, Marlborough.The Monkey Dolls @ The Lamb, Marlboroug

Josh Kumra @ The Bear, Marlborough

Pete Lamb’s Heartbeats play an Alzheimer’s Support fundraiser at The Spencers Club in Melksham. Seriously Collins at The Melksham Assembly Hall.

Truckstop Honeymoon at the Pump in Trowbridge, with Swingletree in support, The Jon Amor Trio at The Red Admiral, Hilperton. Scout Killers at the Civic and Be Like Will at The Greyhound.

Ultimate Meatloaf at The Consti Club, Chippenham.

Six O’clock Circus at Calne Liberal Club.

Sarah-Louise Young: The Silent Treatment at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The Lone Sharks at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. And a Bradford Roots Sessions evening at the Wiltshire Music Centre, with Concrete Prairie, Courting Ghosts, and Fly Yeti Fly, proper job, ed’s pick of the week that one right there be, oo-argh!

The Spooky Kids and Korn Again at The Vic, Swindon, Tundra at The Woodlands Edge, And Solo at North Swindon Club, Click at The New Inn, Hush at The Queens Tap, and Sh!t-Faced Shakespeare – Much Ado About Nothing at The Wyvern Theatre.

Celebrate Zappa : Treacherous Cretins at The Tree House, Frome, Motörheadache at The Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 1st

Monthly residency for the Jon Amor Trio at The Southgate, Devizes, with guest Ruth Hammond.

Fireman Sam is at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, and Victorius at Underground.

Interstate Express at The Bell, Bath.

Monday 2nd

Ope

Billy Billingham MBE – Always A Little Further at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

Orfic at The Bell, Bath

Tuesday 3rd

Calne Music & Arts Festival starts with the Nonpareil, a Local Photography Group Exhibition. It runs across the festival until 28th October, at the Heritage Centre, Calne. Open 10:00 – 16:00 Tuesdays to Saturdays (closed Sundays & Mondays) Visit the Heritage Centre to see the exhibition of photography by “Nonpareil”, a small group of very experienced local photographers. It includes Award Winning Images from their Exhibitions and Salons that have been exhibited around the country. The festival lineup is in full on our event calendar.

100 Years of Silents: Our Hospitality (1923) with live musical score, at Pound Arts in Corsham.

Queenz – The Show With Balls! at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, with 

The Haunting at  Swindon Arts Centre.

That’s all folks, but there are lots more to come!! Let the sunshine…..but do check in on our event calendar too, as updates will be on there, not here, this is just a guide. Have a great week whatever you do do!

And hey, we’re doing a monthly podcast again now; a bit of fun and some great local music on there, please take a listen…. at your own risk!

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 20th -26th September 2023

With the last minute heatwave looking as if it’s packing its bags, we move into autumn still with lots to do locally, the silver lining of the clouds above…..  

Not comprehensive, as I tell you each time, more will be added to our event calendar as we move through the week and they come to our attention, so check in on it from time to time. If you don’t let us know about your event you cannot expect it to be here, drop us a line and guarantee it’s listed here, it costs nothing.

Please, if you can donate a little something to keep us going, do, that’s all I ask. We need to fund this, and any extra will be put into hosting events, something we would like to do more of but without financial support it makes it impossible. Any donations will be kindly accepted, you will get special attention, and we thank you. For info on how, see HERE.  

Pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE.

Ongoing until 29th Sept, The Incredible Quizzical Bath Pub Tour. 

New exhibit at The Forbidden Carnival, Chippenham, Si Griffiths obsession with clowns…..

Wednesday 20th:

Ah, the regular acoustic jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre, for those suffering dementia and their carers, what a wonderful idea, this sessions they’re screening Labyrinth (U.) Absolutely Dragulous at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Women Who Give No F*cks at the Rondo Theatre, Bath, while Azhaar & Global Wave at The Bell.

Thursday 21st:

Superfirends play the Pump, Trowbridge with Beetlehead in support.

Andalusian guitarist/composer Juan Martín at Chapel Arts in Bath, while Fiona ALen’s On the Run is at the Rondo Theatre.

Pete Firman’s TrikTok st Swindon Arts Centre, and running Thursday to Friday at The Wyvern Theatre, Splash Test Dummies.

Friday 22nd:

That time again for the Marlborough Mop Fair.

Funked Up play The Pelican, Devizes.

Talk in Code appears at The Three Horseshoes Bradford-on-Avon, with Nothing Rhymes With Orange in support.

Richard Durrant at Pound Arts in Corsham.

Ex-Wishbone Ash’s Martin Turner is at Chapel Arts, Bath , an Evening With Martin Stephenson at the Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Peter & The Test Tube Babies at The Vic, Swindon with Slagerij. Ska’D For Life at the North Swindon Club, To Sleep at Swindon Arts Centre.

Lump play The George & Dragon, Salisbury.

Crazy Arm are at the Tree House, Frome, with Jo Whiley’s 90s Anthems at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 23rd:

Marlborough Mop Fair again. And an Open Mic at the Parade Cinema from 6-8pm

Heddington Scarecrow Trail: continues Sunday too!

St John’s Charity Michealmas Fair at Devizes Corn Exchange, and the Devizes Food & Drink Festival begins, running until 1st October.

The Hoodoos at The Southgate, Devizes.

Junkyard Dogs at the Cock Inn, Warminster.

Hell Death Fury at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon

CarmenCo at Langford Parish Hall, and Owen Spafford & Louis Campbell at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Diversify at The Vic, Swindon, Operation 77 at The Woodland’s Edge, Take It Easy – The American Classic Rock Show at Swindon Arts Centre.

The Radio Makers have an inStore at HMV Bath.

Slagerij headlines a ska-punk fest at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Strange Folk at The Sun Inn, Frome, Cats In Space at the Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 24th:

Mr Griff at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

Melksham Ladies RFC V Devizes Ladies RFC at Melksham Rugby Club.

Open Mic at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

Junkyard Dogs at Stallards, Trowbridge.

James Hollingworth at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Dr Zebo’s Wheezy Club at The Bell, Bath.

The Replays at North Swindon Club.

CSF Pro Wrestling: Showdown at The Cheese & Grain, Frome. 

Monday 25th:

Rock The Tots: Food, Glorious Food at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Electio, a new play from local playwright Peter Hynds at The Vic, Swindon. Supreme Queen at The Wyvern Theatre, continues on Tuesday.

The Malbec Orquesta at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 26th:

Quentin Collins & Tom Berge Trio at Jazz Knights, The Royal Oak, Swindon while Jen Brister’s The Optimist is at The Wyvern Theatre.

Ian Perry at The Bell, Bath.

That’s all folks, but there are lots more to come!! Let the sunshine…..but do check in on our event calendar too, as updates will be on there, not here, this is just a guide. Have a great week whatever you do do!

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Devizine 5th Birthday!

Right then you lot, Devizine is five years old today, or at least it was when I begun this monumental mission of reminiscing on how,…

Recreational Trespass with N/SH

Arriving just in time to catch Swindon schoolteacher Garri Nash by weekday, ambient acoustic musician N/SH by gig-nights, at one of the early mini-festivals of…

The Scribes on a Journey

In the distressing event of a relationship breakdown some take to drinking their sorrows away, others might venture off to “find themselves,” whereas creative types…

Party For Life Reveal Final Lineup

It’s been a few months since we announced Party For Life are back in the biz of vital fundraising, with a Suicide Prevention Day fundraiser…

Di, Viv & Rose – Wharf Theatre, September 11th to 16th

By Ian Diddams

Three women meet at university in 1983. Mixed backgrounds, sexual preferences, dreams. From early reticence, to friendship, to love. Sharing despair, hope, loss. Love conquers all.…..

The play opens with a simple set, three cleverly used telephones – pre mobile days as an era. Early scenes are short, sharp, frenetic, reflecting youth and urgency, energy and the simplicity of student life. As the play progresses the scenes become longer, less frenetic (though losing no natural pace and rhythm) again reflecting the increased complexities of life. We share with the three their aspirations, of career, promiscuity, love. These provide clashes, arguments, disagreements as each character struggles to comprehend another’s chosen path. There are surprises on the way – some happy, some … life changing, some tragic. This is a gently poignant, bitter-sweet comedy .. a few genuine laugh out loud moments, many internal amusements…  and several gut wrenching, even tear inducing scenes.


The audience on Tuesday night was healthy – fairly full, but just four men. Whilst this play deals with female friendships and where men are peripheral unseen but discussed characters, some bad, some good, sometimes amusing, this is far from being “chick lit on stage” or especially not an anti-men piece.  It’s a cracking portrayal of human interaction and of life’s rich pattern. It deserves a more mixed audience.

Three mesmeric performances – Di (Georgia Watson), Viv (Claire Warren) and Rose (Tempeste Day), woven together by superb direction (Alison Warren), based around a simple set (Wharf Technical crew 😊 ). Another example of excellent community theatre. On our doorstep here in Devizes. If you are still picturing local theatre as wooden performances and lumpen ensemble with stilted line delivery – come and change your perception. Grab one of the few tickets left, get to the wharf this week, and catch one of the remaining performances.

“Di, Viv & Rose” is playing until September 16th, at 19:30 each night.
Tickets from the Devizes Hub, online at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-wharf-theatre/di-viv-rose/e-bdxezq  or call ; 0333 666 3366 .

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12 Bars Later at The Southgate

Could be a pub crawl, more likely the chord progression of blues, but my drunken jesting query met with a shrug from the guitarist, the…

Richie Triangle; Imposter Syndrome

Coming around to Devizine’s fifth birthday has got me reminiscing on how all this started in the first place, who is really to blame?! It…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 13th – 19th September 2023

With the last minute heatwave looking as if it MIGHT be packing its bags, we move into autumn still with lots to do locally, the silver lining of the clouds above…..  

Not comprehensive, as I tell you each time, more will be added to our event calendar as we move through the week and they come to our attention, so check in on it from time to time. If you don’t let us know about your event you cannot expect it to be here, drop us a line and guarantee it’s listed here, it costs nothing.

Please, if you can donate a little something to keep us going, do, that’s all I ask. We need to fund this, and any extra will be put into hosting events, something we would like to do more of but without financial support it makes it impossible. Any donations will be kindly accepted, you will get special attention, and we thank you. For info on how, see HERE.  

Pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE.

Ongoing until 29th Sept, The Incredible Quizzical Bath Pub Tour. 

Di & Viv & Rose opens at the Wharf Theatre in Devizes on Monday, and continues until Saturday 16th.  

Abigail’s Party continues at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon until Wednesday 13th.

Wednesday 13th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes, bring an instrument, voice, or just do as I do, just sit back, perhaps joke about playing the triangle, and enjoy the musicians doing their stuff!

Rosalie Cunningham comes to Chapel Arts, Bath, we’ve seen Rosie at MantonFest, groovy, psychedelic rock n roll, loved it! The Bobby Kennedy Experience at the Rondo Theatre, and 

Dusk Art Rhythm Quartet at The Bell, both in Bath too.

Thursday 14th

Melksham Music & Drama presents Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at Melksham Assembly Hall, opening Thursday, running till Saturday.

Editor’s Pick of Week made easy this time, Swindon Shuffle not only raises funds for Prospect Hospice, it’s free, and a virtual cathedral of our local live music circuit. In the words of the great Zaphod Beeblebrox, “everyone who’s anyone is going to be there,” albeit he was referring to Millways the restaurant at the end of the universe, we’re only on about Swindon, still, it fits! feat your eyes on the poster below, enough said….

Running across the various pubs over the entire weekend, kicking off on Thursday, I’m not going to list them all, because here’s the poster and that says it all.

Elsewhere in Swindon, The Story of Guitar Heroes  at The Wyvern Theatre, and Andrew Bird’s Taken Seriously at Swindon Arts Centre.

The Annie Keating Band at Chapel Arts, Bath, plus support from Steady Habits. Markus Birdman’s Platinum at the Rondo Theatre.

Friday 15th

Seend branch of the Royal British Legion hosts the Pop Pickers at the Seend Community Hall.

The Future Sound of Trowbridge series sees a third instalment at The Pump, with Rae and Foxymoron supporting The Sunnies.

Rockabilly Rumble at North Swindon Club, John Kearns’ The Varnishing Days at Swindon Arts Centre, The Ultimate Boyband Party Show at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, and the Shuffle continues throughout the weekend.

Aretha & the Soul Sisters with Lisa Grand & the Jezebel Sextet at Chapel Arts, Bath, Will Collier’s Chet Baker Project at the Rondo Theatre.

Peter Doherty plays the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Saturday 16th

Devizes Heritage Day, leaflets are available from participating venues and also Devizes Books, and Wiltshire Museum. Devizes RFC V Chosen Former Pupils at  Devizes Rugby Club.

Dr Zebo’s Wheezy Club at The Southgate, Devizes.

Live Music and Family Funday for Wiltshire Mind’s 30th Anniversary at The Pilot, Melksham,  and a Psychic & Crystal Fayre at Melksham Scout Hut, 10am-4pm.

Heritage Open Day: Hidden on the High Street  at the Neeld, Chippenham, and a new exhibit by Si Griffths at the Forbidden Carnival, see poster.

Sour Apple plays Kings Arms, Hilperton. Matt Owens and Courting Ghosts at The Pump in Trowbridge.

Train to Skaville are at Swindon Underground, formerly Level III, Simplicity at The Woodland’s Edge, 80s Mania at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, And Solo at the North Swindon Club, and of course the Shuffle continues throughout the weekend.

Roving Crows at Chapel Arts, Malone Sibun unplugged at the Rondo Theatre, Bath.

These Wicked Rivers at the Tree House, Frome.

Sunday 17th

Eddie Martin plays a Sunday session at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

Ruzz Guitar Blues Revue at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon from 3pm.

Warminster Heritage Open Day at the Athenaeum

Emerald Storm at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, Ska Katz @at North Swindon Club.

The Glad Rags at The Bell, Bath.

Monday 18th

That’ll Be The Day at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Lewis Barfoot at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 19th

Psychic Sally at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, and Jazz Knights has Roger Beaujolais & Tom Berge Trio at The Royal Oak.

That’s all folks, but there are lots more to come!! Let the sunshine…..but do check in on our event calendar too, as updates will be on there, not here, this is just a guide. Have a great week whatever you do do!

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Drag Me Down are Invincible; Fact!

Ah, hark the beatific resonances of an adolescent choir, in their prime; Swindon’s metal-skater-punk three-piece Drag me Down have a new single out, destined to…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 6th – 12th September 2023

Schools are back, summer has finally arrived, here’s what we’ve got this coming week……

Not comprehensive, more will be added to our event calendar as we move through the week, so check in on it from time to time.

Pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE.

Ongoing until 29th Sept, The Incredible Quizzical Bath Pub Tour. 

Wednesday 6th.

The regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Ruby Darbyshire at The George, Lacock.

ShakShak at The Bell, Bath.

Thursday 7th.

Priscilla, Queen of the Disaster at the Civic, Trowbridge.

Robyn Hitchcock at Rondo Theatre, Bath.

InAir and Kotonic at The Vic, Swindon.

Gavin Osborn is at The Tuppenny, Swindon with Meg in support.

The Serial Killer Next Door with Emma Kenny at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Friday 8th.

Burbage & Easton Royal Cricket Club has a beer and cider festival  with Kova Me Bad and The Zoots.

Goatfest opens at Goatacre, Calne.

Lewis Poole plays the Pump in Trowbridge with Start The Sirens and Work Experince.

Peloton at The Vic, Swindon.

The Wonder of Stevie at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

The Tannahill Weavers at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Grace Petrie’s Butch Ado About Nothing is at the Rondo Theatre, Bath

Shindiggers have a Shimmy Discotheque at Club Lomah, Bath.

Lou Cox’s celebrated Having A Baby – The Sh!t They Don’t Tell You In Books comes to the Frome Memorial Theatre.

The Sunbirds are at the Tree House, Frome.

Saturday 9th:

Trowbridge RFC V Devizes RFC at Trowbridge Rugby Club

King Alfred’s Tower Charity Abseil for SOS Africa is taking place on the 9th, 10th 16th & 17th September.

Bit hot for cosplay, but there’s a Sci Fi Day at The REME Museum, Lyneham.

There’s a Twilight Cinema at Hillworth Park, Devizes, screening Top Gun Maverick.

Autumn Fabric Pumpkin Making Workshop at the St John’s Parish Rooms, Devizes.

Grizzly Rhys plays The Southgate, Devizes.

Chloe Jordan and Pete Lamb’s Heartbeats play a Wiltshire Air Ambulance fundraiser at The Corn Exchange, Devizes.

Long Street Blues Club, Devizes opens for a new season with The Ian Parker Band.

Bristol’s boss reggae and ska legend Ya Freshness & The Big Boss Band are at Devizes Scooter Club in the Cavalier.

The Boot Hill All Stars are at The Barge on HoneyStreet, with Whistling Treason.

Barrelhouse play The Lamb, Marlborough.

Mantonfest 2023

Saili Katebe at the Yelde Hall, Chippenham.

Bobbi’s Academy Of Dance – Dance First Think After at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Salisbury RFC have their Beggar’s Bash.

The Unravelling Wilburys play Chapel Arts, Bath.

Frome 80s Festival at the Cheese & Grain.

Lifesigns are at The Tree House, Frome.

Sunday 10th.

Hillworth Park Proms with Devizes Town Band at Hillworth Park, Devizes.

The Jon Amor residency at the Southgate, Devizes from 5pm, guest this month is Adam Phillips. 

Nothing Rhymes With Orange plays at The Exchange nightclub, with Stoneface and Ignotis in support.

Pewsey Carnival Week begins, running until 17th.

Daisy Chapman, with Carrie Martin and the Gordon Wood Band at Schtumm, Queen’s Head, Box.

Old Baby Mackerel at The Bell, Bath.

Swindon Recital Series at Swindon Arts Centre.

Bridget Christie’s Who Am I? at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Monday 11th:

Di, Viv & Rose opens at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, running until the 16th.

Wiltshire Motorcycle Rally at Salisbury Rugby Club.

Abigail’s Party opens at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, running until the 16th.

Von Wildenhaus at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 12th

Kosta Burgess at The Bell, Bath.

Libor Smolds & Daniel Newberry Quartet at Jazz Knights, The Royal Oak, Swindon.

That’s all folks, but it’s early days for September, and there is lots more to come!! Let the sunshine…..but do check in on our event calendar too, as updates will be on there, not here, this is just a guide.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 30th August – 5th September 2023

Bank holiday done and dusted, hope you had a good one whatever you did. But Wiltshire shows no signs of letting up on great things to do moving into September; here’s a roundup of events this coming week…..

Not comprehensive, more will be added to our event calendar as we move through the week, so check in on it from time to time.

Pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE.

Ongoing until 29th Sept, The Incredible Quizzical Bath Pub Tour. 

Wednesday 30th:

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Devizes Salsa at West Lavington Village Hall; new members welcome!

The Deadnotes play the Pump in Trowbridge with The Sunnies and Lindup Brothers

Thursday 31st:

There’s an Open Mic at The Crown, Aldbourne.

Happy Kingsley plays The Neeld Bar in Chippenham from 8pm.

End of the Road Festival in Salisbury opens, running until Sunday.

VirginMarys & Lucky Number Seven play The Vic, Swindon.

Friday 1st:

There’s an Open Mic at the Barge on Honey Street.

Too Complicated at The Wellington, Marlborough.

Let’s Rock this Country with Shania & Friends at Melksham Assembly Hall.

The Pump in Trowbridge begins its series of Future Sound of Trowbridge gigs, with Nothing Rhymes With Orange, Feedback and Paradigm. 

Queen 2 at the Neeld Hall, Chippenham, The Blue Moon Band at The Old Lane.

41 Fords at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

2 Sick Monkeys at The Castle, Swindon,Blind River Scare at The Beehive, State of the Quo at The Vic, and the Deprivation Festival at Underground, formerly Level III.

Phil Beer’s 2023 Solo Tour at Chapel Arts, Bath.

The Scribes play The Winchester Gate in Salisbury.

Ion Maiden at The Tree House, Frome, with Aynsley Lister at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 2nd:

Devizes RFC V Thornbury at Devizes Rugby Club. 

And, of course, it’s Devizes Carnival: The parade departs from the Green at 5:45pm, with an environmental theme.

Julien Biddulph’s trio, Work Experience debut at the The Southgate, there’s karaoke at The Three Crowns, and a Carnival Disco Party at the Pelican.

Swindon’s Apache Cats make their debut at The Bell in Great Cheverall.

Over The Lamb in Marlborough we see the second Famous Hangover Sessions, with a great lineup, Royal Soul from 12pm, George Wilding from 1pm, Jimmy Morre at 2:30, Jolie & the Souls at 4pm, Rivera Arcade at 5:30, Nothing Rhymes With Orange at 7pm, Mick O’Toole from 10pm.  

Trash Panda plays Great Bedwyn Cricket Club.

And it’s Pewsey Pride at The Coopers, with The Reason and, of course, Miss Luscious Lips!

The celebrated homemade festival, Party on the Drive 3 is in Chippenham, and Yanni’s Old Skool Reggae Night at The Neeld. 

Be Like Will play Southwick Sports & Social Club, Shot By Both Sides at Stallards in  Trowbridge, and From Jovi are live at Trowbridge RFC, with The Sunnies as special guests.

Swindon’s second annual Paint Fest will be happening across the town centre. Blitz Kids with Head Noise and Thee Acid Tonguea offer a night of new wave and synth, psychedelic punk at The Vic.

Hatepenny at The

Dire Streets tribute at Chapel Arts, Bath.

41 Fords are at The Sun in Frome, Sex Pistols Exposé at the Tree House.

Sunday 3rd:

Gunina Lane Saxophone Quartet with The Pewsey Players, Take Five and Pewsey Winds at St Mary’s Bishops Cannings. 

The White Horse Vehicle Show, Westbury.

Old Town Street Foods Festival, in Swindon, with Absolva and Furyhead offering some melodic metal at the Vic.

Monday 4th: 

I got nothing, yet, keep an eye on the calendar!

Tuesday 5th:

Curious Kids at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes.

That’s all folks, but it’s early days for September, and there is lots more to come!! I’m telling you, next Saturday you are seriously spoiled for choice, you lucky, lucky, people!

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As Sweet as HoneyFest!

Imagine, it’s only just eight pm on the opening day of Honey-Fest at the legendary Barge on HoneyStreet, and the haystack-filled marquee is already positively pumping, largely due to the energetic hoedown of Bristol’s Mr Tea and the Minions……

Too tempting not to, a double whammy with Devizes’ homemade upcoming marvels, Nothing Rhymes With Orange opening, I made a pit stop at HoneyStreet to black my nose and didn’t really want to leave!

I was intrigued as to where the £125 weekend ticket stub would go in comparison to an atypical weekend at the Barge, which, face it, is usually a mini festival itself! Though there’s no colossal stage erected, the sizable marquee makes for an apt music area, as in past events. Though this weekend there’s extra concentration angled at creating an appealing non-stop lineup for the entire weekend and as the ticket includes camping too, it is justifiable. Though, day tickets available on the gate are priced at a far more reasonable tenner; given these factors Honey-Fest is a must for the hedonistic alternative, and you will be guaranteed an amazing bank holiday weekend. It didn’t take more than half-hour for me to acknowledge this!

The Barge ends up being the spiritual home of anyone who passes through, a magic which holds in the air surrounding it. Though, if it has been this way for decades, what Lenny and his team have created recently, is the kind of environment we, as regular attendees since the nineties, would have wished it to be like back then. Ergo, Honey-Fest is a win-win, a festival within a campsite and wharf surrounded pub, which already hails the spirit of counter-culture festivals of yore, anyway!

And I couldn’t suggest a more apt act than the astoundingly fantastic Mr Tea & The Minions, I told them on Facebook they’d love the Barge, a no-brainer indeed. A headline act, I’d say, but scheduled early to fit their agenda, it was back to Bristol then onto a festival in Kent, followed by a trip to Guernsey for another.

They first came to my attention seeking out alternative forms of ska when doing a regular slot on Boot Boy Radio, an internet station designed to appease Two-Tone diehards. A desire to expand the agenda of the show from simply being retrospective led to me discovering South American ska, and Balkan. The latter so crazy and energetic, a mix of ska’s offbeat and oompah and brassy Truba, and their folk. It is a recipe certain to rub off internationally. I became aware of Bristol’s burgeoning scene, bands like the Smerins Anti-Social Club and Carny Villains and was already aware of the Scrumpy & Western folk flavour of The Boot Hill All Stars, et al. Aside the name Mr Tea & The Minions amused me, their sound was an instant love, for while others blend the influences of west country folk and Balkan ska, most adapt swing into the melting pot, or just fly off the handle of carefree loops of instrumental nuttiness. Here is a band composing structured songs with narrative within those confounds, most definably ska-folk, often amusingly but always with purpose, while still maintaining the infectious high-energy tomfoolery. I soon hurried off a review of their album Mutiny in 2019.   

Over the moon when Loz booked them for Devizes Street Festival last year, I roamed the Market Square excitedly ordering everyone to watch them, and they did, and they agreed, if I remember rightly! Gladdened they came out with the title track to Mutiny at HoneyFest and done a sublime rendition of Junkyard Lovesong from the album, but greater pleased to hear some new songs, like their latest single Twitchy Feet, and a swinging self-stylised finale cover of The Bloodhound Gang’s Bad Touch, which simply rained fun. Here is the liveliest, friendliest six-piece family band with the structure and proficiency to command any age to a dancefloor I know of locally; what an amazing start to Honey-Fest, leaving me pondering, if this is an intro, what was yet to come.

Though none of this occurred before young singer-songwriter Marley begun musical proceedings at 4pm, which unfortunately I was still polishing off some beans on toast at home for, and followed by our favourite Devizes band, the utterly awesome Nothing Rhymes with Orange, which, since missing their stint on Fantasy Radio on Thursday, was what I was making a beeline Pewsey direction for. In fact, last time I did catch them it was also here at The Barge, an intended and worthwhile detour homebound from MantonFest.

That time though they were wedged in the corner of the bar and raising its roof. Here in the marquee the sound mechanics would be greater, yet they would need to overcome the niggly issue Elijah was Lost-Voice Guy for the evening! Though they prevailed, the charismatic frontman persisted, and Sam Briggs filled in too, as unperturbed they produced their collection of beguiling indie-rock originals, including their latest creation, Cats Eyes, and wowed the audience young and old, varying degrees of hippies, tipi glampers, passing druids, the odd stilt walker and every other charming and fun oddity who will pass by you at the Barge, making it such the magic place it is!

But the showstopper was a demanded encore just when Elijah’s voice had all but given up, he asked the audience if anyone knew the words to Sex on Fire, to which a random volunteer affirmed, and Elijah asked she come on stage to assist. And she did, and it was as advertised, on fire. But more importantly, it signifies how this upcoming band are fast becoming accustomed to the spotlight, breaking the fourth wall and dragging the crowds into their banter. Something they could always do in their comfort zone of a loyal fanbase, but to rock up to a varied audience like the Barge, isn’t so simple. Their performance was in short, the essence of a blossoming phenonium.

But of course, this was all but the very beginnings of HoneyFest, and if so, the whole shebang will wow you. Hats off to the team at the Barge, not just for staging this particular extravaganza, but for the many wonderful memories there and how they’ve maintained this spirit, supported our local live music circuit and created this divine pocket of resistance from the surrounding cliquey conventional area. There’s food wagon, there’s a toy and clothes swap tent, there’s magical art displays, and crazy street theatre type crazies, but as I said, it may not be as hugely altered from the standard ethos of a weekend camping at the Barge as it could be, but it’s welcoming, it’s as wonderful as the Barge has ever been, and if it isn’t broken……

To conclude my findings, look, we’re overloaded with things to do this bank holiday, I know, it’s gone bonkers, but if you’ve no plans for tonight, this place could have your name all over it, and if not, here’s hoping there’s more annual HoneyFests. Failing any of those, of course, any weekend at The Barge is a blessing and whole heap of fun; forever recommended with festival jester’s hats on and bells on.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 23rd – 29th August 2023

Righty-ho then, this week’s rodeo roundup of all the lovely fings to Scooby-Doo across Wiltshire’s rolling landscape is rather like when you went on holiday as a nipper and your folks bought you your chosen comic’s summer special… a bumper edition!

Okay, millennials and gen z, you’ll need Google to make any sense of that. The rest of us greying lot will remember spilling Ready Brec on their oversized Beano, Dandy or Nutty summer special while listening to the rain hammering onto a caravan roof, but everyone knows with the bank holiday looming, there’s a lot to get through, so here goes……

Oh, one quick thing while I remember, as these roundup posts are getting more popular, (we had over 10K hits for last week’s) you can see from below it’s too much to stick on a Facebook post, so we do it this way because those not on Facebook can also see what’s happening, but more importantly, this list is published early in the week for ticketed events, events which come to our attention, like those smaller pub gigs which pop up on Facebook or Twitter(if we can still call it that) during the week will NOT be listed here, but they will be on the updating event calendar HERE. So, DON’T take this preview piece as comprehensive, DO check the calendar later in the week.

 Pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE.

Also The Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham has a street art inspired exhibit, Reviewed HERE.

Ongoing until 29th Sept, The Incredible Quizzical Bath Pub Tour. 

Wednesday 23rd:

The regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon kick off their weekend earliest, with “summer of love” festivities, there’s spoken word and The Cleverly Brothers tonight.

Joe Pasquale’s The New Normal: 40 Years Of Cack comes to The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Fromage en Feu at The Bell, Bath, Iago Banet, The Galician King of Acoustic Guitar at Chapel Arts.

Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse are at the Tree House, Frome.

Thursday 24th:

Nothing Rhymes With Orange are part of a Fantasy Radio Live Lounge at The Crown, Devizes, with poetic interludes by Gail Foster. You can cheat and listen to it on Fantasy, or come down the pub!

The Undercover Hippy at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

James Kirby’s The Honest Man Tour at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Mr Love & Justice at The Tuppenny, Swindon. Ghosts of this Town  Album Launch Party at The Vic, Horrible Histories – Barmy Britain at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Friday 25th:

Emergency Awareness Training! Wiltshire Air Ambulance at Hillworth Park, Devizes, but also the chance for the kids, and parents of course to meet Bluey from 12-2pm. 

Yeah, I’ve no idea who Bluey is, but I know these guys will rock, Plan of Action at The Three Crowns, Devizes, and these guys will skank, Blondie & Ska at The Pelican, and well, we just love People Like Us who are at the Condado Lounge; spoiled rotten for choice I’d say, Devizes!

Honey-Fest over at the Barge on Honey-Street starts, and what a great lineup there; Mr Tea and the Minions! Further afield, it’s the Reading Festival.

Radiation Sickness at The Consti Club, Chippenham.

Riff Raff Aurora at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford on Avon. West of England Youth Orchestra at the Wiltshire Music Centre.

Jurassic Earth at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

And music in Swindon is coming up roses: Stop Stop & Studded Rose at The Vic, Black Rose at the New Inn, Stratton, and Sonic Alert at The Queen’s Tap.

‘Shadowing Hank’ Justin Daish’s tribute to Hank Marvin & The Shadows is at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Dr Beetroot heads another glamping live music sesh at the Baa, near Salisbury.

Saturday 26th:

Continuing on Sunday, it’s time again for the FullTone Festival on the Green in Devizes; yay! And if you’re not going to this, or fancy popping out for a stroll, the fantastic Ruzz Guitar Trio play The Southgate.

Humdinger plays The Coopers, Pewsey.

Forest Fest at The Foresters Arms, Melksham has Manhattan Nights, This Way Up, and Marty’s Fake Family, kicking off at noon.

Cooper’s Creek are at The Wheatsheaf, Calne. Zero Hour at The Wiltshire Yeoman, Trowbridge.

Bradford-on-Avon have Castlefest at the Castle, and the fun continues at the Three Horseshoes with cabaret and circus acts. Ocean Blue, a relaxing duo of sax-based pop classics, jazz, blues, Boassa nova, and funk at the Boathouse.

In Swindon, 12 Bars Later at the Wroughton Club, Comedy at the Bowl at the Old Town Bowl, Apache Cats at The Queens Tap. The Little Mermaid at The Wyvern Theatre.

Sunday 27th:

Jim Blair at The Southgate, Devizes, while FullTone continues on the Green. The Potterne CC Festival is on, there’s a bus to the village from the town centre.

Talbot-Fest at the Talbot in Calne, see poster.

Start the Sirens play The Grapes, Melksham.

A happy 16th anniversary to the Open Mic night at the Old Road Tavern in Chippenham. This one kicks off at 7pm.

Starry Eyes, a charitable trust based in Trowbridge, which provides an opportunity for people of all ages, shapes, sizes and backgrounds to get involved in music, has a Disney Day at Studley Green, Trowbridge. Tickets will be available on the door with a range of activities and entertainment available.

The Summer of Love festival comes to a Reggae Reggae Sunday finale, with Troy Ellis with Hail Jamaica at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

It’s Sazz at the New Inn, Stratton, Swindon, 21st Century ABBA & Elton at the Old Town Bowl.

The Original Mike Hoddinott Blues Allstars at The Bell, Bath.

And The Hammervilles’ Bank Holiday Beach Party at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Monday 28th:

Unmissable should the headline read; Well Hung Heart at The Southgate, Devizes. But there’s more, The Reason plays The Three Crowns, and The British Lion holds its Black Rat Monday, with a BBQ and the amazing Be Like Will.

Box Rocks at the Queen’s Head in Box, is the fundraising smasher of bank holiday Monday, previewed HERE, fantastic lineup yet again!

Another outdoor all-dayer at the Lamb Yard in Bradford-on-Avon, see poster.

Kid Hyena at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 29th:

Bank holiday over, back to work! I chant this because I’ve forgotten what a bank holiday is; no rest for the wicked (and I mean wicked in eighties ironic slang, cos I’m of that era. Nowadays they say “sick,” what’s wrong with them?!)

But there’s still Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon with Swing From Paris, and Rob Clamp plays The Bell, Bath.

And we’re not slowing down when we delve into September, you know? The Deadnotes play the Pump, Trowbridge with The Sunnies in support on Wednesday 30th, The End of the Road Festival kicks off in Salisbury the day after that.

Into September, there’s lots to look forward to from the off, The Future Sound of Trowbridge series starts with Nothing Rhymes With Orange at The Pump on Friday the 1st, with our wonderful new writer Florence Lee’s band Paradigm in support.

Then there’s Devizes Carnival, Pewsey Pride, Swindon Paint Fest, the infamous Party on the Drive 3 in Chippenham, Hillworth Park Proms in Devizes, Burbage Beer Festival, a Sci Fi Day at The REME Museum, Calne, Chloe Jordan and Pete Lamb’s Heartbeats at the Corn Exchange Devizes for an Air Ambulance fundraiser, the new season of Long Street Blues Club begins, boss reggae with the arrive of Ya Freshness at Devizes Scooter Club, Nothing Rhymes with Orange play the Exchange, Pewsey carnival, The Wharf Theatre’s Di, Vi and Rose, Swindon Shuffle, Devizes Food & Drink Festival, and so much more to come!

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Open Mic at the Bell, Great Cheverall, and Other Local Open Mic Nights

Who is Mike anyway, and why is he so open?!

If I said these four words, in this order: open, mic, cellar, and bar, lots of Devizes folk will be evoked with fond reminiscences of Alan Jones and Richard Ben’s regular sessions down in the basement of the Bear Hotel. Many local musicians cut their teeth there, else if already established, rung out their labour of love, and that, in a nutshell is what open mic nights are all about….

But with the event being kaput, I get asked time over, here at Devizine, if I know of any still operating. So last night I popped along to see Nick Beere of Marlborough’s Mooncalf Studios, hosting one at the Bell in Great Cheverell, and off the back of it thought today we could talk about it, and present a more general piece on local open mics; double-whammy.

“I don’t know why I got started doing it,” Nick tells me, as he sets up for the next act. Far from karaoke, Nick is tweaking technical bobs, engineering the sound and advising newcomers, to make them both comfortable and sound professional. There’s a communal feel about open mic nights without pretence. Vince Bell is there, no stranger to an open mic, explaining their importance as a bridge from practising and playing to your friends and family, to getting out gigging. Indeed, there’s an unplanned duo playing tonight, Lisa the singer, and though it’s a nervous start for them, the applause received sent them brewing with deserved confidence.

While you can take it as red Vince delivered his sublime acoustic goodness, he’s here with Devizes singer-songwriter Sorrel Pits, coming across as one of those artists to make excuses, prior to pulling off some beautiful songs adroitly self-penned with meaningful prose.

Guitarist Steve Nicholls and bassist Troy Orourke are also present, uncertain about the future of their band Alfred’s Tower since the singer left, but accompanied on cajon they produced some wonderful instrumental pieces. They asked me if I knew of any singers in need of a band, so if you’re on the hunt get in touch with us and I’ll hook you up. And within this here’s another notable point about open mics, they’re convention-like for networking, a social get-together of like minded talent, and new connections will undoubtedly be made at them.

The Bell at Great Cheverell makes for a hospitable village free house, catering for diners more so, yet often hosting live music; those Truzzy Boys being a particular favourite. No one seemed bothered by being treated to a selection of songs after their meals. Nick runs the open mic here on the second Tuesday of the month, the first Monday of the month he does similar at the perhaps more apt Lamb in Marlborough, and the third Thursday at the Horseshoe in Minal. 

To get involved with open mics, a quick Facebook search is all you need to do to get the ball rolling. Though there’s lots of said groups inactive though, especially post-lockdown. I’ll stick a few groups and pages which we’ve discovered and are currently running at the bottom of this piece. For if you want to break into the local scene, open mic could well be your route. 

Other local open mics worthy of your perusal are Tom Harris’s at the Barge on HoneyStreet. The next one being 22nd September. Join HERE for updates.

In Devizes I only know of one, The Exchange nightclub runs. The next one is Thursday 7th September, and thereafter the first Thursday of each month. HERE is the group you need to join. Though another similar thang, even more communal than open mics are acoustic jams, a particularly popular one being each Wednesday at The Southgate.

Stallards in Trowbridge have open mics on the last Thursday of each month. This group is HERE.

The Old Road Tavern in Chippenham has regular open mics on the last Sunday of the month. Group is HERE. Next evening is Sunday Aug 27th, 7pm to 10.30pm, their 16th anniversary. Chippenham FM’s Brian Reid has been running it since 2014. “We regularly get thirty-forty people each month,” he told us.

Another crucial point Brian made was the Old Road’s is open to poetry and comedy too, as others are likewise. “We have a space which I am proud to say is welcoming and attentive and supportive of newcomers,” he explained, “and a lot of experienced participants come too.”

In Bath Connor McLeod has a regular Monday evening at Belushis, and there’s a general open mic group for Bath, HERE.

Similarly Salisbury has one HERE.

Delaney’s in Wantage have open mics the first Thursday of the month, next up also 7th September. 

For Open Mics across Wiltshire, HERE, and For Open Mics throughout the Southwest, HERE. Have mic will travel!

And if I missed your favourite one, let us know, and we’ll add, provided you don’t expect me to sing personally, as there’s a government health warning on that!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 9th – 15th August 2023

Don’t hold your breath, but is … .is…is that summer…. coming? Ah, here’s what we’ve found this coming week to do in wonderful Wiltshire…..

Usual gubbing, all the info and ticket links are on our jam packed event calendar, HERE, and you can plan ahead too. Any updates after today will also be put on there, so do check in later in the week too, as this is not exhaustive or comprehensive, or other such long words like that!

Do pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed here.

Also The Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham has a street art inspired exhibit, I hope to pay a visit and report back tomorrow.

And there’s the Cepen Park Emoji Trail for Dorothy House, see the poster.

Wednesday 9th:

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Lots for youngsters at the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, Fidgety Feet Dance & Drama, and two sessions of Fly Like a Bird for 5-7yrs, and then from 8-10yrs.

Thursday 10th:

Little Piccolos Summer Workshop and Beautiful Bunting at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Lego workshop, Bricking It at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Sarum Live Open Mic & Jam, at the Duck Inn, Laverstock, Salisbury.

Friday 11th:

The Roughcut Rebels at The Old Lane, Chippenham.

The Radio Makers & Deadlight Dance at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

More crafts and kid’s stuff at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon; Celebrate the Sun, and again, two aged sessions for a Frozen Dance Party, with a screening of Frozen 2!

Road Trip at The Vic in Swindon, Swipe Right at the Queen’s Tap.

Outdoor Cinema Night – Dirty Dancing at Warminster School.

Stofest – 2nd attempt! at South Newton & Wishford Village Hall near Salisbury.

Who’s Next tribute at the Tree House, Frome. Live music at The Baa, see below…

Saturday 12th

Seend Fete on the Green, by the Lye.

Melksham Assembly Hall get all Lego, see the poster.

Duane Conn & The Connections at The Southgate, Devizes, Down The Hatch at the Three Crowns.

Pants at the Lamb, Marlborough, Second Hand Band at The Three Tuns, Great Bedwyn

Top Of The Pops Band at The Consti Club, Chippenham.

Happy 20th birthday to Venom at Club Ice, celebrating with a birthday bash at Westbury.

41 Fords are at The Royal Oak, Corsham.

Frenzy at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford on Avon.

Editor’s pick of the week is Swindon & Wiltshire Pride at Regents Circus, all rainbow blessings to you!

Elsewhere in Swindon, Homer is at The Swiss Chalet, Retro Electro at The Vic, Barrelhouse at Queen’s Tap, and The Vipers at the New Inn in Stratton.

Illingworth plays The Avon Brewery, Salisbury.

Rosie Merritt is live at The Queen Charlotte, Andover.

Rat Race at the Cheese & Grain, Frome; ska!

Sunday 13th:

All About The Music have their first Record Fair at Devizes Conservative Club, 10am-4pm.

Be Like Will are at The Farmhouse Inn in Southwick, Trowbridge.

Mike Hoddinott Trio at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Ortonesque at the Old Town Bowl, Swindon.

Monday 14th:

Lego Animation Workshop at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Tuesday 15th:

Another Lego Animation Workshop at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Alex Goodyear Trio presents the Music of Oscar Peterson at the regular Jazz Knights, at The Royal Oak, Swindon.

The Winchester Gate, Salisbury, have their regular poetry evening, Poetika 114 – Pirates and Mermaids.

And that’s your lot, for now, do check into our event calendar as between picking my nose and bum, I might yet update… what? No one reads this far anyway, do they?! This is a checkpoint, see who’s still awake! Good reason for it though, it’s when we look at future stuff to be doing, and thinking about booking…….

Like Liz Stringer at Chapel Arts, Bath on Thursday and a Tom Speight Instore at Sound Knowledge Marlborough.

Next weekend is Devizes DOCA Colour Rush & Confetti Battle, followed by The Jake Leg Jug Band at The Wharf Theatre. Sausage and Cider Day at The Brewery Inn, Seend. Sunday find the monthly Jon Amor residency at the Southgate, Devizes, yay!

And raver-families, check out The MidLife Krisis Summer Family Event at Supermarine, Swindon!

Further into the month, of course we have another one of those bank holiday things; FullTone in Devizes, Potterne Beer Festival, Box Rocks, Talbot-Fest in Calne, Ruzz Guitar Trio at The Southgate, Devizes, Cooper’s Creek at The Wheatsheaf, Calne, 12 Bars Later at the Wroughton Club, Swindon, and so so much more will be coming in, I promise you! We might yet have a summer after all!

Then, beginning September we see the Pump feature the Future Sounds of Trowbridge, a series of gigs for upcoming bands, which I’m going to have to tell you about in a separate post, as I’m too excited and need a wee…..groundbreaking journalism, accept no less; have a great week!!

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 26th July – 1st August 2023

Here’s what we’ve found to be doing locally this coming week into August already…take a raincoat for this is British summer time, yay!

Here’s a thing, all the info and ticket links are on our jam packed event calendar, HERE, and you can plan ahead too. Any updates after today will also be put on there, so do check in later in the week too, as this is not exhaustive or comprehensive, or other such long words like that!

Ongoing through the month, Marlborough Open Studios, countywide artist open studios, where you can invite yourself  into many artist’s homes for free to see their work and what biscuits they have! Open Studios runs on the first four weekends in July between 11am and 5pm.

Do pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed here.

Ongoing until Sunday, the Westbury Festival continues until 30th July, with lots going on there.

Wednesday 26th:

The regular acoustic jam at The Southgate, Devizes, and Negra Santa at The Bell, Bath.

Thursday 27th:

Jam Night at the Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Beware of the Bull show, An Audience Without Jake Thackray, which you might have seen in Pewsey, is at Chapel Arts in Bath.

The ELO Experience at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

And festivals kicking off are Womad near Malmesbury (27th-30th) and the same dates for Camp Bestival near Lulworth;  you lucky lot! 

Friday 28th:

Ah, Editor’s pick of the week, Devizes Scooter Rally 2023 all weekend. The Scooter Club are saying the date for pre-order tickets has passed, but you can pay on the gate, except for overnight campervans and caravans, which must have been pre-booked. Friday has 41 Fords and Sharp Class, Saturday The Butterfly Collective, Roughcut Rebels, The Killertones, and Orange Street. Previewed HERE.

Devizes Town Hall has a magic night with Chris Hiscock.

The other biggie is Trowbridge Festival at Southwick, only a few ticket options left for this now, so get in quick.

Jaspreet Singh: With Love, Jaspreet at Swindon Arts Centre, The Daybreakers at The Vic, Good Times at the Queens Tap, and The Duke’s Theatre Company presents Twelfth Night Summer Tour at Old Town Bowl.

Billy in the Lowground at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

R.E.M by Stipe at the Tree House, Frome.

Saturday 29th:

Dylan Smith at The Southgate, Devizes, Midnight Hour at The Three Crowns.

William The Conqueror has an instore at Sound Knowledge in Marlborough, with an intimate gig at St. Peter’s Church. Miles Kane is at Marlborough Town Hall, and Barrelhouse are at The Bear. Reggae Garden Party at The Pelican in Froxfield.

Spiritual medium Mitch Garlington at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Calne Bike Meet 2023.

The Last Baguette: Pandora’s Box at Pound Arts, Corsham.

People Like Us at Prestbury Sports Bar, Warminster.

In The Night Garden at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, and also running on Sunday. 

Sophia & The Soul Rebels at The Moonrakers, Swindon, Shades of Seattle at The Vic, and Rotten Aces at the Woodland Edge.

LCassidy, Backsy MOC + MissFaithee (Situationships) at St Margaret’s Hall in Bradford On Avon, Us-Two at The Boathouse. 

The Dom Harrison Dilemma at The Bell, Bath.

Metallica Reloaded at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Sunday 30th:

Pims in the Park at Lydiard Park, Swindon, a great Julia House fundraiser, with some great bands including our favs Talk in Code, Sarah C Ryan, NoMiddle Ground and N/SH.

Monday 31st:

Mal Webb & Kylie Morrigan at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 1st:

Rock The Tots are at Old Town Bowl, Swindon.

That’s all I have for now, but early days, and more will come in, so pay attention to our updating event calendar, and follow our socials for updates and new stuff to do, rather than relying on me editing this, because I rarely get time for it! Have a great week!

Girls Like That at Devizes’ Wharf Theatre Opens Tomorrow 

What if I told you the forthcoming production at the Wharf Theatre in Devizes was staged by the Wharf’s own Youth Theatre Group? Would you preconceive it to be akin to a school production? Would you assume it amateurish, or immature? Girls Like That is none of the above, I was invited to a sneaky preview dress rehearsal type thingy, and it’s complex, multi-layered and poignantly provocative….

I left the Wharf contemplating the model protagonist versus antagonists is ambiguously played out here, as the centre of attention, due to a lewd photograph of her going viral, Scarlet, played wonderfully by Chloe Lagden, is silent throughout the majority of the play, and until the closing scene where she lays it thick on the line; the layers of blame, of victim of circumstance, and the harassing group banter leaves a bitter taste of irony, of who is right and who are wrong.

Even the title remains questionable once the play has concluded; does the “girls like that” refer to the Scarlets of this world, and their terrible mistakes, or her peers who seem determined to gossip and spread hearsay through their outrage at what she did? I remain undecided, but an open-ended play is favourable if you wish to leave with deliberations about your own social engagements, which it certainly does. Face it, we never truly grow out of our malicious adolescent craving to better ourselves by putting others down, and I only said that because my dad is a black belt in karate!

Of course, it focuses on contemporary methods of harassing, online, but there’s interesting monologues dividing the present day, of twenty year gapped reminiscences, examples of masculine abuse and inequality, which though you assume are only there for an insight to past techniques of humiliation and how they differ or are similar to today’s, there’s a twist at the conclusion to roll them nicely into the narrative…. not forgoing, elders in the audience will love the cultural reverences I’d suspect the actresses would need to Google!

The nine other young actresses, Scarlet’s frenemies, each play their parts of equal substance, as if they were made for them. I pondered if they each took reflection from this on their own actions, or this is the superb direction from renowned director Lou Cox, or more likely a bit of both. But one thing I am sure of, the cast; Samantha Scott, Bea Yates, Eloise Bromley, Darcey Oswin, Megan Hughes, Pip Aldridge, Jess Harding, Jess Worrow, and Lisa Grimes, together with Chloe, play utterly convincing parts with gusto and actuality.

There’s subtly placed humour too, satirical and black, and it’s easy to see now how Girls Like That was named best play for young audiences at the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain Awards in 2015, though I would argue with strong language and passionately delivered prose, here is a story to leave an impression on the most hardened adult mind equally.

Clogs and stilettos this play, for me, because being an honest reviewer, anyone who requests a nudie photo of me must either be criminally insane or a director filming a whole new level of twisted horror-comedy; walking in someone else’s shoes is most effective when they’re an entirely different style of shoe. Even if you cannot relate to the circumstance presented in Girls Like That, I believe there’s a moral there for us all, as the naivety of the characters mature, the nature of gossip and backbiting never really fades through age, it just gets more complex and crafty. Ergo, anyone, a victim, perpetrator or both will identify with this gritty, reality-driven play, but all will relish in its gorgeous portrayal.

The popularity of recognisable shows at theatres in general, means previous performances at our wonderful Wharf Theatre, such as The Railway Children, can be taken as red, whereas something lesser-known like this you have to take a chance. I’m only here to express my thoughts, and would humbly suggest Girls Like That displays the diversity of performances the Wharf are willing to put on, and you will leave breath-taken.

Well done to Lou and her team of aspiring, and indeed, inspiring actors at the Wharf Theatre Youth Group, it’s marvellous!

Girls Like That starts tomorrow, Thursday 20th July, and runs until Saturday 22nd. Shows at 7:30pm, tickets are from £10, from the Wharf website HERE, or from the Box Office on; 0333 666 3366.

Trending…….

The Return of Saddleback

Yes, felt obliged to drop into the Saddleback Festival, have a nose….. If a week of heatwave may’ve inconviently paused for drizzle Saturday, fortunately Devizes…

Lavington Community Choir dazzles with The Pied Piper of Hamelin

Review by Karen Cannings. Photography by Gail Foster.

Market Lavington Community Hall was filled with music and applause on Friday 7th July, as Lavington Community Choir presented their summer concert under the direction of Paula Boyagis…..

The choir showcased their vocal skills and versatility in a range of jazz-inspired songs, accompanied by a talented jazz ensemble featuring Tim Price on piano, Tony Jones on flute, James Monckton on double bass, Henry Liebling on Sax, Nick Kingman on percussion/drum kit and Nick Hale on miscellaneous percussion.

The first part of the concert included some classic jazz tunes such as ‘Moon River’ and ‘The Way We Were’, arranged for choir by Bernard Wight. The choir sang with rich harmonies and expressive dynamics, creating a warm and engaging atmosphere. Jessica Phillips, Soprano, charmed the audience with her sweet voice in ‘Let there be Love’, while Paula Boyagis, Mezzo Soprano, delivered a rich and expressive performance of ‘Autumn Leaves’. Jim Donovan then entertained everyone with his rendition of ‘Mack the Knife’, complete with a trilby hat!

The second half featured a jazz cantata based on Robert Browning’s poem ‘The Pied Piper of Hamelin’, composed by accompanist Tim Price when he was only 16 years old as a student at Dauntsey’s School. The choir, soloists and jazz ensemble brought this humorous and whimsical story to life with catchy melodies, lively rhythms and colourful narration. The original director of music at Dauntsey’s School, David Price, was present in the audience to enjoy the revival of his former pupil’s work. The conductor of the cantata was Paula Boyagis, who also sang the role of the Piper (complete with flute solos) resplendent in a colourful costume of red and yellow.

Mark Wastell, sang and acted his role as the Mayor with great conviction.

The community choir welcomes new members who want to join them. Videos of the concert are available on YouTube.

Trending…..

What to Do; Weekend Roundup for 16th-19th June

Ah, the Ashes, about the only international sporting event where England can get a second place! It’s gonna be another scorcher weekend, folks, so here’s…

Weekend Roundup 9th-12th June 2022

Despite all you have to do is scroll our event calendar, I thought I’d make it even easier for you, with a new weekly regular…

Chippenham Art Heist

If Devizine was a voyage of discovery to begin with, I still manage to find talented folk hiding in this rural county, but often it’s…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 12th – 18th July 2023

Another summery week ahead of us, and our weekly report on all the stuff we’ve found to do. We will continue to support all local events and we won’t succumb to petty squabbling about any of them, by anyone.

It seems unfair that we seem to get minimal respect for what we do by a few local councillors, perhaps it is because of this reason, I really don’t know. Devizes Town Council posted on their Facebook page last week, asking for suggestions to improve the free local council-run pamphlet “The Messenger.” I was the only one who offered an idea, being the events list in it only promotes those events governed by the council, that it would be helpful to both us and their readers if they could include a kind of “for more information on local events” link to Devizine, but they have not bothered to even respond.

It begs the question why Devizes Town Council would ask for suggestions and not reply to those few who do; a simple yes or no would have sufficed! Now that I’ve said it I’m sure it will get political, I’ll be witch-hunted and banned from social media pages again when all I’m guilty of is telling people about events going on, so here we go; do let me know if anything below offends you or is any way “bullying” someone, won’t you?!

Don’t forget nothing is comprehensive, other events might well be added during the week as and when we discover them, so check in on our event calendar, for more info and links on these, updates and planning ahead.

Ongoing through the month, Marlborough Open Studios, countywide artist open studios, where you can invite yourself  into many artist’s homes for free to see their work and what biscuits they have! Open Studios runs on the first four weekends in July between 11am and 5pm.

Do pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed here.

Wednesday 12th:

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Jarman at Swindon Arts Centre.

Amadou Diagne & Group Yakar at The Bell Inn, Bath.

Sophie Duker at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Thursday 13th:

Mark Thomas: England and Son (Work In Progress) at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Chris Murphy at The Tuppenny, Swindon.

Ghosts of this Town album launch at The Vic, Swindon.

Friday 14th:

Lost Monkey Productions presents Nothing Rhymes With Orange, Foxymoron and Overstory at the Corn Exchange, Devizes.

The Unpredictables at The Peppermill, Devizes.

Wrestling Night at Marlborough Town Hall.

Slageri & Kimng Alias at The Barge Inn, Honey-Street.

Sour Apple at The Pig and Whistle, Melksham.

Nervendings and Mosaic at the Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

Jazz at the Cafe with Jacqui Hicks at The Civic, Trowbridge.

The Carrivick Sisters at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Barrelhouse at The Vic, Swindon.

Sara Petite (4 piece) plus support: Savannah Gardner at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Heathen Apostles  at the Tree House, Frome.

Asian Dub Foundation at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Saturday 15th:

Arty Kids at Hillworth Park, Devizes.

Wiltshire FA Wildcats Festival at Green Lane Playing Fields, Devizes.

Italian Auto Moto Festival in the Market Place, Devizes.

Devizes District Wargames Group: Attack 2023 at Devizes School.

Chris Murphy & Barney Kenny at The Southgate, Devizes.

Roughcut Rebels at The Three Crowns, Devizes.

Midlife Krisis Summer – Summer Dance at The Barge, Honey-Street.

Humdinger at The Lamb, Marlborough.

On Remand at The Crown, Marlborough.

Sour Apple at the Ship, Upavon.

Market Lavington Vintage Meet Family Fun Weekend

Family Fun Day at Woodborough Social Club from 12-4pm.

Pewsey Pride at the Coopers Arms.

The Passion of Joan of Arc at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Never 42 at Swindon Arts Centre.

Whole Lotta DC at The Vic, Swindon.

Nicki Leighton-Thomas – One Good Scandal at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Later with Frome College at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Newton Faulkner at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Gorilla Riot at The Tree House, Frome.

Sunday 16th:

Deadlight Dance & Reverence 80 at The Blue Boar, Aldbourne.

Characters Stage School: The Addams Family at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

GM Dance Academy Showcase at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Warmington, Lindley and Webb at The Bell Inn, Bath.

Monday 17th:

The Westbury Festival opens with lots of great events running until 30th July. 

Rock The Tots: Rock Gods vs Princesses at Pound Arts, Corsham.

BD Lenz at The Bell Inn, Bath.

Tuesday 18th:

Open Mic at The Angel, Westbury.

Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon with Roger Beaujolais & Tom Berge Trio.

Harri Mason at The Bell, Bath.

And that’s all we have so far, do check into our event calendar for updates, and have a great week!

Trending……

Female of the Species Back For Halloween

The annual all-female local supergroup get-together is annouced for the Halloween weekend, at a new venue, Seend Community Centre…. Nicky Davis from People Like Us…

Errol Linton at Long Street Blues Club

In a remarkable finale to the season for Long Street Blues Club, London-based The Errol Linton Band presented Devizes with a sublime lively blues blend…

Talk in Code get Illogical

The only person who isn’t going to love this is Mr Spock! Swindon’s Talk in Code released a new single today, Illogical, their first release…

Just the Beginning, Start The Sirens

If it’s the beginning, it’s a loud one; kicking punk album release from Start the Sirens out last week has got me potentially stage-diving off…

Majesty; Kids Art Exhibit at St Mary’s

Ha! Stand aside established local artists, we’re talking about the artists of the future here! If you’re knocking around Devizes this extended weekend, do pop…

Devizes LGBTQ+ Group’s First Big Event

Formed a year ago, the Devizes LGBTQ+ group have organised several meet ups, but the time is nigh for their first big event, Drag Bingo…

Saddleback Back!

In July 2019, straight after the Devizes Rugby Club’s Saddleback Festival, they announced July 11th 2020 for their next festival, but we all know the…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 28th June – 4th July 2023

Hey, busy week this week, here’s what’s happening across the county. Don’t forget there’s more info on these, ticket links and irregular updates on our fantabulouso Event Calendar, so get ahead one step ahead of the game!

Ongoing, Hail the Curious, the inaugural exhibit at The Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham; check it out by the end of the month. Devizes Tennis Club starts week one of their Tennis Holiday Camp at Devizes Tennis Club; book here.

Wednesday 28th:

Ah, the regular acoustic jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Jo Brand: Work In Progress at Swindon Arts Centre.

William KZ at The Bell, Bath, The Beat featuring Dave Wakeling at Bath Forum. 

Thursday 29th:

Open Mic at Stallards, Trowbridge.

B-Sydes & Old Man Boom at The Tuppenny in Swindon, while Something Underneath and Chasing Dolls are at the Vic, Drew Bryant is at Timmy’s Bar, and Coldplay tribute Coldplace at The Wyvern Theatre.

Comedy at Komedia in Bath with Phil McIntyre presents Danny Bhoy’s Now is not a Good Time, Danielle Ward and Tread Softly Productions’ hilarious, intelligent and seriously moving, no-holds-barred look at being a woman in comedy, The Half at the Rondo Theatre.

Friday 30th:

The acclaimed Welsh film, Translations gets a screening at Melksham Assembly Hall, Helen gave us a preview, HERE.

Drew Bryant is at The Pelican, Devizes, with Illingworth at The Three Crowns. And we look forward to Devizes first Pride on Saturday with Drag Queen Bingo at The Wyvern club and an LGBTQ+ Club Night at The Exchange.

There’s an Open Mic at Marlborough Town FC, Swipe Right play the Bear, and Reading Dub Club with the Jah Lion Movement visits the Barge on Honey Street.

B-Sydes at the Pump, Trowbridge, with Old Man Boom in support.

Opening is the amazing Minety Music Festival, nr Malmesbury, and happening all weekend.

Chippenham Comedy Festival starts at the Old Road Tavern, and continues until Sunday 2nd July.

Modern Evils, Viduals and Trippy Kicks at The Vic, Swindon, while Moon and Truck are at The Castle, and Jon Amor Trio at the Beehive. Comedy at The Wyvern Theatre with Phil McIntyre presents Danny Bhoy’s Now is not a Good Time.

Iona Lane with Malin Lewis at Pound Arts in Corsham.

Spectrum at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Ministry of Burlesque cabaret at Komedia, Bath, while the Rondo Theatre have Eleanor Higgins and Bush Productions queer cult sensation, In Pursuet, following two sell-out runs at Edinburgh Festival Fringe. And ‘Your Song’ – a Celebration of the Songs of Elton John at Chapel Arts.

Keith Brymer-Jones is at The Memorial Theatre, Frome, with Led Zep tribute Coda at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 1st:

Marlborough Open Studios starts, and runs over the first four weekends in July between 11am and 5pm. This is a countywide open studios extravaganza where you can visit many different local artists in their studios. 

It is Mantonfest near Marlborough time again; yay! Nothing Rhymes With Orange are at The Barge on Honey Street.

Free to take clothes, swap and donate at Devizes Swap Shop at St James Church from 11am-2pm. It is Devizes first Pride at Hillworth Park, and of course, the 22nd Devizes Beer & Cider Festival. To finish, Jamie Williams & The Roots Collective will continue from the beer fest over to the Southgate.

There’s the Heddington and Stockley Steam Rally and Country Fair. 

Becky Lawrence & The Reason play The Green Dragon in Market Lavington.

Saucy Jack at The Pilot, Melksham.

Barney Kenny & Chris Murphey at The Pump in Trowbridge.

Matt Woosey at Pound Arts in Corsham.

Trowbridge Symphony Orchestra at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon, and highly recommended Adam and the Ants tribute Ant Trouble at The Three Horseshoes, with The Sylvertones at The BoatHouse.

Italia Conti at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. My Chemical Romance and Fallout Boy tributes at the Vic, The Black Charade and Fell Out Boy!

Figgle Fest 10th Anniversary, at Figheldean Village Hall Salisbury.

Tribute to Small Faces, the Small Fakers Band has sold out Chapel Arts, Bath.

Gordie Mackeeman & His Rhythm Boys at Frome Memorial Theatre, with An Evening with Simon & Oscar from Ocean Colour Scene at The Cheese & Grain, and Foo Fakers & Nirvanot at the Tree House.

Sunday 2nd:

Carmela’s Wiltshire Wonder Wheels 100km & 10km Charity Cycle Ride.

Jon Amor regular session at the Southgate in Devizes, increibley with the Gris Gris, Robin Davey and Greta Valetni; just wow!

Inspire 2023 free music festival at Warminster Pleasure Grounds.

Zone Club’s Summer Celebration Concert at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Regular first Sunday of the month Blues Jam at the Vic in Swindon.

Monday 3rd I got nought, yet.

Tuesday 4th:

Running until 8th July, the Bradfordians’ Amadeus at the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak in Swindon brings you the Alex Goodyear Quartet.

That’s your lot for this week, unless you know any different? It’s free to have your event added to our EVENT CALENDAR and feature on our weekly rodeo roundup, so don’t make me come chasing after you, do let us know about them. Have a sixties style fab and groovy weekend!

Trending……

Cookie Cutting with Andrew Hurst

Andrew Hurst appears at St Johns House in Devizes this Saturday, 27th May, courtesy of Devizes Rotary, for a Ukraine fundraiser, the same day he…

Is Devizes Ready for The Strong Lady?!

Featured Photo Credit: Sean Longmore How strong is strong lady Charmaine Childs? Strong enough to be a circus strong-lady of Strong Lady Productions, and that…

Sarnie for Her Majesty!

There’s still time to suggest your ideal sandwich filling fit for the Queen! Devizes Food & Drink Festival are hoping for seventy sandwich fillings…..even I…

Castlemorton Wasn’t the Best Rave Ever!

Featured Image ©Alan Lodge Photography Okay, I confess, that’s a clickbait title, forced to make you shout, pantomime style, “oh yes it was!” On this,…

Cobalt Fire’s Butterfly

In the words of the great Suggs, “but I like to stay in, and watch TV, on my own, every now and then,” after three…

Billy Green’s Garden

To deal with my forgetfulness I have a to-do-list. The only issue with my to-do-list is I forget I started it; Billy Green released a…

George Ezra in…. Trowbridge!

Dad’s taxi drops off, and the driver impatiently awaits his off-spring to exceed the bluetooth boundary; ha, I’ve got of my car stereo back. It’s…

A Sneak Peak at the Wharf Theatre’s Upcoming Season

Delighted by winning the Best Theatre/Arts Venue category of the Wiltshire Muddy Stilettos Award 2023, Devizes Wharf Theatre wanted to thank everyone who voted for them. “We are so proud of our little theatre and all our incredible volunteers,” they told Devizine, “the theatre literally would not run without their time and effort. Thank you also to everyone who supports us whether that be by coming to shows, volunteering, or, indeed, nominating us for this award in the first place!”

Muddy Stilettos is all about celebrating and supporting local businesses and this year saw over 800,000 people voting on various categories around the country, and we congratulate the Wharf, for it really is a wonderful little theatre on our doorstep; but we all knew that already, didn’t we?!

There is only one more show left of the summer season at the Wharf, one I’m personally looking forward to. Girls Like That is a gritty reality-driven drama directed by Lou Cox, and performed by the Wharf Youth Theatre Group. It explores the pressures on young people today in the wake of advancing technology, and was named Best Play for Young Audiences at the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain Awards 2015. It runs from 20th-22nd July.

There’s an audition notice for 9th July, a currently untitled new play by the amazing Freddie Underwood.

And it’s on with the new program. Saturday 19th of August sees The Jake Leg Jug Band at the Wharf. An authentic sound of 1920’s and 30’s America, from jazz, blues, gospel and ragtime, this trio put their own twist on songs of murder, betrayal, gambling, liquor and redemption.

From Monday 11th September to Saturday 16th, find Amelia Bullmore’s comedy, Di and Viv and Rose, dealing with friendships among a group of three cohabiting female students in 1983, displaying how their solidarity precariously survives physical separation, career paths and even mortality.

On Thursday 28th September there’s a Devizes Film Club screening of Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom. A 2019 Bhutanese drama film directed by Pawo Choyning Dorji. The first film from the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan to be nominated for an Oscar, it follows a young teacher with a dream of moving to Australia but finds himself teaching a classroom of eager children, and a yak!

October 23rd to 28th sees Lyn Taylor’s Happy Jack, a 1989 play by John Godber, about a couple who live in a mining village in West Yorkshire.

Steaming into November, and the 4th has an uplifting story of heroism and love by Ali Smith, Cadbury’s Angels. Set in wartime when a group of women working on the production line at the Cadbury factory in Birmingham decided to secretly send letters and cards inside the tins of chocolates that were dispatched to the soldiers fighting on the front lines. To the men fighting miles from home, and away from their loved ones, these women became known as The Cadbury Angels.

Sunday the 5th November, remember, there’s Water Rats Charity Variety Spectacular, some top stars all raising money for the Water Rats Charity. 

Saturday 11th November there’s two showings of The Last Post, a poignant, moving and thought-provoking stage show for children and families. The story revolves around the correspondence between Joseph, who is at war, and his son William at home. The split stage, multi-rolling and use of projections allows for fast-paced transitions from England to Belgium so the audience remains immersed in this simple but moving story that entertains in an appropriate and engaging manner. 

With November behind us, oh no it isn’t, December now, and where would be without panto time? This year will be Jack and the Beanstalk, and it’s running from Friday 1st to Saturday 9th. 

Bounding into 2024, we can expect to find Oscar Wilde’s farcical comedy, The Importance of Being Earnest, from 29th January to 3rd February. Auditions for this will be on 18th September, see here.

All tickets for the above performances will be at the box office as of Saturday 1st July. Anything we publish hereafter is top secret speculation taken from leaked documents from the very top of the Wharf Theatre, and I will likely be shot for merely whispering them to you …..in some over dramatic theatrical way too!

Stagecoach Performing Arts School are visiting with a production of Frozen Jnr, followed by a Lonnie Donnigan tribute show on February 24th.

2nd March sees the Music of Simon & Garfunkel show come to Devizes and in April you can look forward to something very Agatha Christie. From 13th May until the 18th, Amanda Whittington’s The Thrill of Love is the performance. Set in a smoggy 1953 gentleman’s club in London’s West End, where young manager, Ruth Ellis, had it all, the money and lifestyle that she had always dreamed of. However, by 1955 she had lost it all and was the last woman to be hanged in Great Britain.

And on the 1st of June, expect Top Secret’s explosive family show, The Magic of Science.  An opportunity to surround yourself with the mystery of magic, cleverly fused with wondrous and miraculous feats of science. It is promised the venue will be transformed into a real-life science laboratory and lots of unbelievable “how did they do that!” moments. 

Trending…..

Marlborough’s Lamb Announce LambFest

Contrary to popular belief, particularly my kids, I was young once, and back in that iron age I used to live in a motte-and-bailey hillfort…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 20th -27th June 2023

Happy Summer Solstice, Wednesday, sunrise expected at 3:57am supposed to be a drier night than last night, possibly cloudy; have a wonderful solstice everyone; love and light. 

Here’s what else is happening across the county this midsummer week. Don’t forget there’s more info on these, ticket links and irregular updates on our sparkly Event Calendar, so plan ahead.

Ongoing, Hail the Curious, the inaugural exhibit at The Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham; check it out by the end of the month.

Tuesday 20th:

Poetika 112 – The Sun And The Moon at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Wednesday 21st:

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Classic Car Evening Gathering at Atwell-Wilson Motor Museum in Calne

Running until 24th June, The Western Players present The Dinner Party at Swindon Arts Centre

MorningStar plays The Bell, Bath.

Oh, and of course, there’s that little shindig called Glastonbury Festival; have one for me if you are heading that way, and if you’ve room in your backpack I have been known to fold up quite compact if duty calls!

Thursday 22nd: 

Music For Miniatures at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Sebastian & Me & Mirrored Faces at The Vic, Swindon

Lol Goodman Band at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The Damned, yes, I said the Damned, at Komedia, Bath…. well, I’ll be!

Friday 23rd:

Lucky Number 7 plays The Pump in Trowbridge, with JCC and Enter Red.

The Free Association presents St. Doctor’s Hospital, an improvised medical drama, directed by Graham Dickson at the Neeld, Chippenham.

Emily Storm at The Kings Arms, Melksham.

Robinson Stone at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The Unthanks at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Xodus – a Tribute to Bob Marley & The Wailers at Chapel Arts, Bath.

TommyInnit at Bath Forum.

Phoxjaw at Moles, Bath.

Hamsters From Hell & The Lonely Road Band at The Vic, Swindon.

Moore’s Exotic Reserve at The Tuppenny, Swindon.

Ed Sheeran Tribute at The Ridge, Swindon.

ZambaLando at Fiesta de Cuba, Greenbridge, Swindon

Saturday 24th:

The Vintage Bazaar at The Corn Exchange, Devizes.

California Dreams at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes. Enjoy a trip through the music of California in the 60’s and 70’s. Recording just a stone’s throw from each other and guesting on each other’s records, a group of musical legends worked simultaneously to turn out some of the greatest songs of all time. Hits by The Mamas & The Papas, Eagles, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Linda Ronstatd, The Byrds, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young and many more. 

Poulshot Village Fete.

Devizes Chamber Choir presents Summer by the Sea at St Andrews Church, Devizes.

Earl Slick Band @ Long Street Blues Club, Devizes, big question mark over this one, it might well be cancelled, do check ahead.

SGO at The Southgate, Devizes.

Funked Up at The Three Crowns, Devizes.

Ben Borrill at The Moonrakers, Devizes.

Calne Carnival

Melksham Pride

The Strollers at Melksham Rock N Roll Club, now in Spencer’s Sports & Social Club.

Back to the 80’s at Melksham Rugby Club.

Big Family Music Day at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Bus Station Loonies at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Atlas Rise at Moles, Bath.

Aoife Scott at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Mixed Bag at Prestbury Sports Bar, Warminster.

Stars of Time Film and Comic Con at Steam, Swindon.

Drag Me Down & Youth Illusion at The Vic, Swindon.

Mickelson: Jump off the Earth UK tour at The Hop Inn, Swindon.

Fleetwood Shack at Level III, Swindon.

Talk in Code at Brown Street, Salisbury.

Sunday 25th:

Devizes Tennis Club starts week one of their Tennis Holiday Camp at Devizes Tennis Club; book here.

It’s the Pro-Wrestling Showdown at The Corn Exchange, Devizes.

Junkyard Dogs at The Southgate, Devizes.

No Go Glasto charity gig for Diabetes UK at Stallards, Trowbridge.

Weekly bandstand concerts in John Coles Park, Chippenham.

Lazy Summer Sundays at Richard Jefferies with Canute’s Plastic Army.

Wifi Wars at Swindon Arts Centre.

Keith Brymer Jones’ Life, Clay and Everything at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Collapse The Sky & ChemiQueen at Level III, Swindon.

India Arkin live in session at the Electric Bar in Komedia, Bath.

Eddie Martin at The Bell, Bath.

Monday 26th:

Brendon at The Tap & Barrel, Swindon

Phil King Band at The Bell, Bath

Tuesday 27th:

Let’s Swim Get Swimming & Tokyo Toy Company at The Vic, Swindon.

Wyvern Theatre Swap Shop at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Jazz Knights Presents Nigel Price and the Alban Claret Quartet at The Royal Oak Swindon.

Spiers & Boden at Komedia, Bath

The Hill Book Launch at the Rondo Theatre, Bath.

That’s all I got, folks. Not as busy as last weekend, but still lots to keep us all out of trouble! Don’t forget though, to check in on our event calendar for updates as they will come in from time to time!

Carrie Etter’s Poetry Workshop at Devizes Arts Festival

By Helen Edwards

American poet, Carrie Etter has been a resident in England since 2001, and a reader in Creative Writing at Bath Spa University. She published four collections, most recently, The Weather in Normal, and numerous chapbooks. On Saturday Carrie gave a poetry workshop and reading at Devizes Town Hall, as a fringe event of Devizes Arts Festival…..

‘Carrie’s workshop was absolutely fantastic, a distilled overview of prose poetry with many examples to show the variation in style and our own time to create (with no pressure).  Carrie was inspiring, impassioned and quick as a whip.

Her students at Bristol University are very lucky to have her as a teacher (as were her many past students from at Bath Spa University). The open mic at the end was inclusive, supportive and fun. Carrie’s final poem saw me wiping away tears; beautiful.

I wish I could write a longer review but I am doing this one-eyed with a poorly optic nerve. I’m effervescing with words which will have to wait or be dictaphoned, when they come I now have many tips as to how to form them better.  Thanks Carrie, your generosity is abundant – I’ve a feeling you’ll get a roomful’s worth of follow up messages. Helen.

Trending…..

Corn Exchange in Punderland

Machine-pun comedian, Gary Delaney held a full-to-bursting Corn Exchange in Devizes captive, and in continous fits of laughter last night….. If my first introduction to…

Devizes Street Festival; Day Two and Overall

All images used with the kind permission of Simon Folkard Photography That’s overall, as in “taking everything into account,” and not the all-in-one pac-a-mac kind,…

REVIEW – Devizes Arts Festival – Christian Garrick & The Budapest Café Orchestra @ Corn Exchange  16th June 2023

Hot Gypsy Jazz

Andy Fawthrop

Devizes Arts Festival headed into its final weekend with a fine Friday night gig at The Corn Exchange.  As Clair Figes of the Arts Festival said in her introduction, this was all about the music.  Whilst there might have been some hesitation to give any Russian music any air-time at the present time, perhaps these days would have been different if more people had spent more time listening to music, rather than fighting.  Let the music flow, she said.  And how right she was.…..

So then the sharply-dressed quartet that is the Budapest Café Orchestra came to the stage, and proceeded to blow everyone away with a really virtuoso performance of world music.  This was gypsy and folk-flavoured music from Spain, the Balkans, Russia, wherever, and it was played with verve and panache.

Established in 2009 by British composer and violinist, Christian Garrick, and with 13 albums to their name, the Budapest Café Orchestra is a small but impeccably formed ensemble of just four players.  They combined violin, guitar, accordion, double bass, saz and balalaika to dazzling effect, creating a sound that you might expect of a far larger ensemble.

The BCO consisted of Christian Garrick (violin, darabuka), Eddie Hession (button accordion), Kelvin Cantlon (double bass), and Adrian Zolotuhin (saz, guitar, balalaika, domra).  Each one of them is a master in their field, and each one of them has played with some of the most famous artists in the world.  Their pedigree is impeccable.  And boy did it show last night, as they collectively breezed through their highly entertaining two sets.

It was high energy, and it was delivered with style, and a great deal of wit.  The versatile switching of instruments, the comedic commentary from Christian, the twirling shades of the on-stage standard lamps – it all added up to a visual and aural delight.  And, not surprisingly, the large audience absolutely loved it.

Yet another triumph for this year’s Arts Festival.

Trending….

Lovesong at The Wharf

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Birdmens Play Long Street

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Mark Thomas Tour in Swindon & Bath

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Worried Men at the Southgate

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Savernake Forest Restrictions; Residents Say No!

Marlborough residents rally online to criticise Forestry England’s proposals for Savernake Forest. The questionable survey’s deadline has been extended to the 22nd of April, and…

REVIEW – Devizes Arts Festival – Hawes & Catlow @ St Andrews, Chris Ingham Trio @ Town Hall 15th June 2023

Andy Fawthrop

The Hot & The Cool


Devizes Arts Festival headed towards the end of its second week with a double-dip into the chocolate–box of goodies. At lunchtime we had some hot folk, and in the evening we had cool jazz……

St Andrews was the venue at lunchtime as Kit Hawes (guitar, vocals) and Aaron Catlow (violin, vocals) played an absolutely wonderful set of folk tunes and songs. This was no ordinary duo though – what we heard was absolutely spell-binding stuff. It was largely fiddle-led instrumentals, supported by a wonderful picked guitar, as the two musicians really leaned into their set. Between songs, the pair were chatty and engaging, charming the audience with their laid-back style. The only thing wrong with their set was that it was too short! However, we could forgive them as the guys had to get away because, following this performance, the duo were due to visit two care homes to meet and perform for the residents, courtesy of the performing music charity, Live Music Now. Absolutely sparkling stuff.

For the evening we moved just across the road to the Assembly Room of The Town Hall for The Chris Ingham Trio and an altogether cooler, more laid-back experience. The trio featured Chris himself on piano, vocals and commentary, with Joe Pettitt on upright bass, and George Double on percussion and (soprano) vocals.

Their programme was based around the jazz compositions of the beloved comic actor Dudley Moore (1935-2002). Whilst being more famous for his comic sketch acting on TV and in films, often with his co-comic Peter Cook, Dudley was also one of the UK’s most dazzling, swinging jazz pianists and a composer of wit and depth. The decision to revisit Moore’s music in The Jazz Of Dudley Moore, with sounds from the fabulous 1960s Decca trio albums, the TV show “Not Only But Also” (1965-70) and the brilliant movie soundtracks for “Bedazzled” (1967) and “30 Is A Dangerous Age, Cynthia” (1968) was a good one, and it made for an excellent evening of jazz, that was both instructive and thoroughly entertaining.

During the evening we (well definitely me!) learned a lot about Dudley Moore and his life. Moore was a vastly under-rated and prodigious jazz talent. He was a working-class Dagenham boy, which always left him feeling somewhat second-best next to the highly intelligent and Cambridge educated co-conspirators Peter Cook, Jonathan Miller and Alan Bennett. He felt he could not always communicate as well as his peers, and music was his outlet for his feelings, his desire to love, and his need to be loved (see “Love Me!”). There is much melancholy there, and his psychological profile was of a man who was lonely, and whose emotions were fragile. He spent much of his life in therapy of one sort or another. His inner demons drove his manic comedy, his drinking and his womanising. Yet he was possessed of immense personal charm and playfulness.

All of this Chris and the boys attempted to convey in words, and illustrate through the music. Chris could never (in his own words) play piano in exact imitation of Dudley, so the idea was to give “another run-out to the spirit of the man’s musical style” – playful, and committed to swing, often with a bossa nova groove.

Chris’s commentary between songs was erudite, yet chatty and witty. His playing was spirited, yet sympathetic, as he led the trio through “Bedazzled”, “Cornfield”, “Song For Suzie”, “Waterloo”, “Sad One For George” and many others. A well-deserved encore of “Good-byeee” simply put the cherry on the cake of a really wonderful evening.

The Devizes Arts Festival continues for only two more days until Saturday 17th June.

Tickets can be booked at Devizes Books or online at www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk

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Daydream Runaways, with Butterflies

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Daffodils; A Lost Trade-Mark!

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Helping Ukraine in Wiltshire

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The Dark Horizon of Sam Bishop

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REVIEW – Devizes Arts Festival – Clive Anderson 14th June 2023 @ The Corn Exchange, Devizes

Andy Fawthrop

The Scottish Play


Devizes Arts Festival headed towards the end of its second week last night. And here was another highlight…..

Clive Anderson is pretty well known household name, being seen on TV and heard on radio as a presenter, writer and interviewer over the past 30 years. He’s an award-winner, a versatile comic writer and, an often overlooked feature, a barrister by training. He’s fronted his own TV and radio shows, and has been a celebrity guest on countless others.

Last night, in a fairly packed Corn Exchange, he brought his own show “Me, Macbeth and I” to the stage. Appearing for the first half in full “Scottish” regalia, his opening assertion was that Macbeth (sharp intake of breath from the luvvies in the audience), sorry “The Scottish Play” was the greatest play ever written, and certainly Shakespeare’s best drama. Using this, and his frequently referred-to Scottish ancestry, as a thin framework on which to hang the rest of the show, he set off in pursuit of….I’m not quite sure what.

We had some wonderful, although sometimes rambling, anecdotes from his career in showbiz, name-dropping with gay abandon (Cher, Sting, Robin Williams, Peter Cook, Mikhail Gorbachev to name but a few), although this was rarely gratuitous. Anderson has interviewed them all, and had some great back-stories to relate. He covered his early start in comedy (Cambridge Footlights and Comedy Store), his learning path in presenting live TV, and the vicissitudes of coping with sometimes unpredictable guests. He also shared a number of theatrical anecdotes, milked from “Loose Ends” with Ned Sherrin, and concluded an overlong first half with the results of his researches into the truth (or otherwise) of the bad luck stigma associated with 400 years of productions of Macbeth. This allowed him to mention Gielgud, Beerbohm, Olivier and Orson Welles, as if in passing.

The second half picked up where he’d left off, although the Scottish outfit had now been abandoned for a more conventional lounge suit. The style was still the same however – occasionally incoherent, repetitious, going off on tangents and losing his thread. However we always seemed to get back to the point, which left me wondering if this method of delivery was a reflection of his natural style, or a slightly nerves-driven affectation.

Whatever – it was mostly interesting and funny, with a few topical depth-charges casually dropped into the comedy waters (Gove, Rees-Mogg, Prince Andrew etc). There was a discourse on his own Scottish heritage and of Scottish national stereotypes. The final section allowed him to revisit great interview disasters of others (Parkinson and Rod Hull/ Emu, Russell Harty and Grace Jones) and of himself – the famous Bee Gees walk-off, Richard Branson and (for me the best) Bernard Manning and National Prune Week.

It was funny, but not hilarious. It was interesting and educational, but not gripping. The audience mostly seemed to love it, but I found it difficult to warm to the man somehow. His comedy is more intellectual than human/ emotional, so that might be it. Anyway – a good night out, and another success for Devizes Arts Festival.

The Devizes Arts Festival continues for three more days until Saturday 17th June.

Tickets can be booked at Devizes Books or online at www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk

Trending……

Update on the Crammer

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An evening with Will Kirk at Devizes Arts Festival

Ben Niamor

The format of this, my first foray into this kind of event, see’s BBC radio presenter Sue Davies chatting with Will, the furniture restorer and woodworking maestro from the Repair Shop on the gogglebox. Apparently his first event of this kind too.. Sue has a dry wit and gentle manner well suited to this, as one might expect given her career…..

We are treated to many interesting answers and anecdotes, if this is his first time doing such a thing it does not really show, apart from when he chats himself away from his answer and has her remind him of the question! But that’s only reflective of his genuine joy, and passion for his work. 

He seemed mildly embarrassed to admit the first thing he remembers making were some nunchucks from some of his dad’s chains and a stolen broom handle, so he could swing them like his heroes, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! 

His grandfather used to restore furniture, something he had long forgotten until after he started a met-college furniture course having failed a graphic design first year… twice! 

A successful business in proper antique furniture restoration followed before the TV people came knocking… 

The way he talks openly and positively of his Family in the shed, the Repair shop team is lovely if not perhaps surprising. 80,000 emails so far requests, 9th series in production… and an incredible following.

The tale of the people thinking they can go down..! An old lady with a broken clock, having travelled some way and crestfallen she had misunderstood, but was on the doorstep, so Steve fixed it for her in his lunch break..! Sounds like the sort of warmth and humble humanity that you get from the incredible transformations in the programme.

That was during the airing of series one. Now it’s secure, segregated in the museum most of the time such is the profile now reached. They Film nine months of the year, and he has recently reduced the days given over to the show to be able to be an active dad too. It would be easy to forget what a huge hit he is a part of, he truly comes across as every bit as genuine and lovely as what you see suggests.

In the second half our penned questions were answered , ranging from the obvious to the cheeky, a fun thing to do. Favourite woods, favourite jobs, future ambitions you name it we asked…

I thoroughly enjoyed the evening, interesting and a chance to connect in some small way with something I personally love and appreciate. Positive, humble craftspeople making dreams come true, and I’ve met one of them and got my book signed.. brilliant. 

I was pleased to see no entourage with overpriced wares but in fact Devizes Books selling the books at the usual reasonable rrp.

I managed to speak to a couple of arts festival committee members before leaving and thank them for their work and the opportunity; another great event.

The Devizes Arts Festival continues at various venues around town until Saturday 17th June.

Tickets can be booked at Devizes Books or online at www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk

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REVIEW – Devizes Arts Festival – Lois Pryce 13th June 2023 @ The Bear Hotel, Devizes

Revolutionary Ride

Andy Fawthrop


Devizes Arts Festival played a blinder this afternoon by cranking up the outside temperatures to a level suitable for listening to Lois Pryce talking about riding her motorcycle around the heated countryside of Iran in 2013 and 2014. .

The talk/ slide show/ video was entitled “Revolutionary Ride – One Woman’s Solo Motorcycle Journey Around Iran” and it did exactly what it said on the tin.

Lois Pryce, apart from picking banjo on Sunday as part of the bluegrass group The Brothers & The Sisters at The British Lion on Sunday, is a woman of many talents. She’s also an author of three books about her solo adventures in far-flung lands (Alaska to Terra del Fuego, London to Cape Town, and now Iran). She’s also a speaker and freelance writer and broadcaster.

Her latest book, Revolutionary Ride, is a memoir about her experiences in Iran, undertaken in two separate parts in 2013 and 2014. She covered over 3000 miles, did her own basic bike maintenance, camped out many nights, and (most importantly) funded the whole trip herself without the need for sponsors.

She freely admitted that before going, she was largely uneducated about the wider political situation then existing between Iran and the West, did not speak nor understand Farsi (including road signs), didn’t have a visa, didn’t understand the likely problems to be encountered by a lone female riding a motorbike (technically illegal), and that the only maps she had were pre-Revolution. Nothing daunted, she headed into all the technical, cultural, logistical and legal problems, and just kind of “got on with it”.

She drew many parallels and contrasts between the massive amount of hospitality and friendliness she received at a personal level from virtually everyone she met, and the official state-led political situation. She described it as a “chilling regime”, almost entirely cut off from the rest of the world’s infrastructure (internet, banking/ credit systems, foreign imports), with an extreme set of Islamic-led laws, customs and social structures. For women especially, this meant “a life behind the veil”. Nevertheless there was always a thriving “under the counter” culture in everything from motorcycling to music to alcohol.

There were many anecdotes and examples of her “helmet to hijab” existence on the road. And after the break (for book sales and signings), there were plenty of questions from the packed audience.

A highly entertaining session, and well-attended. Which just goes to prove that if you put on something interesting, even in the middle of the afternoon on the hottest day of the year, there are plenty of folk in D-Town with nothing better to do. Build it, they say, and they will come. Another Home Run by DAF!

The Devizes Arts Festival continues at various venues around town until Saturday 17th June.

Tickets can be booked at Devizes Books or online at www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk

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Devizes to Get Cheese & Chilli Festival

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A Gecko in Trowbridge Town Hall

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 13th -19th June 2023

Another summery week ticked off, and our event guide just keeps getting bigger. This week is huge, people, huge ……I mean the week is huge, not the people, I’m not one to body shame as, I believe, is the appropriate gen z term; pass my pronouns, there’s good fellow. 

Don’t forget there’s more info on these, ticket links and irregular updates on our sparkly Event Calendar, so plan ahead. But this week we have…drum roll…..

Ongoing, Hail the Curious, the inaugural exhibit at The Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham; check it out by the end of the month.

Tuesday 13th

Floral Display at Hillworth Park, Devizes, continues Wednesday too. Devizes Arts Festival still going strong, they have Lois Pryce: Revolutionary Ride – One Woman’s Solo Motorcycle Journey around Iran at 3pm in the Bear Hotel, and the fantastic Elles Bailey Band, 8pm at the Corn Exchange.

Nick Beere has an inaugural Open Mic Night at The Bell, in Great Cheverall, which hopes to become a regular second Tuesday of the month thang.

McCartney – The Songbook at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Free-movement dance session 60’s to 80’s music at Salisbury Methodist Church.

Wednesday 14th

Poulshot Green Gathering.

Devizes Arts Festival has Clive Anderson’s Me, Macbeth and I. 7:30pm at the Corn Exchange.

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre for those with dementia and their families, showing

Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory. Menopause The Musical 2 at The Wyvern Theatre.

Charlotte Sauste-Bridoux at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon.

Lunchtime Recital with cellist Idlir Shyti at Pound Arts in Corsham, and a double bill in the evening with Fly Yeti Fly & Pound Sound.

Thursday 15th

Devizes Arts Festival has folk duo Kit Hawes & Aaron Catlow, 12pm at St Andrews Church, and the Chris Ingham Trio’s The Jazz of Dudley Moore, 8pm at theTown Hall. 

Paul Henshaw plays The Tuppenny, Swindon. An Evening with Brian Bilston at Swindon Arts Centre, and Phil Wang’s Wang In There Baby! at The Wyvern Theatre. Liddington Hill EP release party at the Vic, with Lucky Number Severn & Dark Prophecy, EP reviewed here.

Folk Open Mic Meets From the Book, at Brown Street, Salisbury, A Night of Folk Music and Poetry, and continues on Saturday.

AC/DC tribute, Hell’s Bells at The Cheese & Grain, Frome. 

Friday 16th

Devizes Arts Festival has Gaelic folk anthems with Christian Garrick and the Budapest Café Orchestra, 8pm at Corn Exchange.

John Langan & Maxine Ria at The Barge, Honey-Street.

Park Lane at The Civic, Trowbridge.

Radiation Sickness at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

Longleat Summer Party.

John Bramwell & The Full Harmonic Convergence at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Swindon Folk Club Guest Night: Patakas at The Hop, Swindon, Pink Mac at The Vic, 

21st Century Abba at Meca, Oye Santana at Swindon Arts Centre, and In Conversation With Stacey Dooley at The Wyvern Theatre.

Second night of the Folk Open Mic Meets From the Book at Brown Street, Barbar Luck at The George & Dragon in Salisbury.

Band X atThe Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Isabelle Farah’s Ellpsis at the Rondo Theatre, Bath, and The Alex Voysey Blues Band presents ‘Faux Bonamassa’ at Chapel Arts.

Legends, Bob Marley & the Wailers kick off a ska and reggae weekender at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Saturday 17th

Maps for Devizes Open Gardens are ready and on sale now from Devizes Books, Hillworth Park Café, Devizes Town Hall and The Giving Tree in the Little Brittox. £7 in cash per map, continues on Sunday.

Devizes Sustainability Fair in the Market Place from 10am-4pm. 

Devizes Arts Festival has a free fringe event, Carrie Etter Poetry Workshop and reading, at 2pm in the Cheese Hall of Town Hall. Limited numbers so book your place. And 8-piece reggae Latin funk powerhouse Malavita! 8pm at the Corn Exchange, makes the grand finale of what has been a fantastic year for the festival.

Elsewhere in Devizes, find Will Edmunds Trio at The Southgate, and Humdinger debut at The Three Crowns. 

Keevil Summer Roots Festival, a first for the village, preview here.

Stonehenge Campaign Festival, free, at the Barge on Honey-Street.

The Plough at Shalbourne has a FREE Ale and Sausage Festival, with Two Complicated, Deadlight Dance, @59, Reuben Medlin Band and more.

Chippenham Pride has a great lineup, but you will need to register your interest online.

The Rider are at the Pilot in Melksham.

Shaw Summer Family Music Fair.

X-Factor winner Steve Brookstien at The Civic in Trowbridge.

Debut Dance Company: Bodies of Water at Pound Arts, Corsham, followed by Iona Johnson: Musical Storytime and Bella Hardy in the evening. But check out the poster for Corfest at Corsham Rugby Club, what a lineup, loads of my favourites from Train to Skaville, Nothing Rhymes With Orange, Plan of Action and Splat the Rat; nice one!

Barrelhouse play The New Inn, Swindon, Hannah Rose-Platt & Adam Giles Levy at The Tuppenny, Wizards of Oz and Judas Rising at The Vic. Patti Boulaye’s I’m Coming Out at Swindon Arts Centre. Swindon Music Trust holds a Party in the Park at Town Gardens, tickets are £11.50, great lineup, see here. 

Bath Symphony  Orchestra are Across the Pond at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, find Stanchions at The Three Horseshoes.

Peter Gill – Piano Legends at Chapel Arts, Bath, with John William Richard’s Almost Hollywood at the Rondo Theatre.

An evening with Logical Park at The Swan near Barton Stacey, Salisbury.

G4 Live at The Memorial Theatre, Frome, with the Cheese & Grain’s second night of their ska and reggae weekender, featuring the Neville Staple Band. 

Sunday 18th

DOCA’s Picnic in the Park at Hillworth Park in Devizes, a must!

Max & Ivan: Life Choices (Work In Progress) at Pound Arts, Corsham, with Gav Cross: Snack and Stories too.

GBH Big Band’s I Got Gershwin at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon, while the amazing Dry White Bones play The Three Horseshoes.

As Fanning at Komedia, Bath

Paul Burling’s Big Daddy Variety Show at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Monday 19th

Declan Gaynor @ The Tap & Barrell, Swindon

And I got nuthin for Tuesday, yet But if I missed anything out let me know, feed me cake and I can update this and our calendar, but if you don’t tell me don’t come crying! Have a great week, remember, sunscreen, people, sunscreen.

Look out for our incoming next article, as we reveal the music lineup at Devizes Beer Festival on the 1st July!

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Drag Queen Story Time in Swindon Sparks Counter Protest

By T.B.D Rose

The LGBTQIA+ community bravely showed their support for Drag Queen Story Hour at the Wyvern Theatre yesterday, by staging a counter protest to the fascists who were blasting bigoted lies accusing drag performers of being groomers and of sexualising children, when in fact, pantomime dames and drag queens have been a staple of family entertainment for decades.….

Attacking drag queen events is clearly camouflage for a campaign of homophobia (according to Swindon Advertiser, one fascist could be heard saying that: “It’s against the natural order for a man to be with another man”) directed at all LGBTQ friendly venues and spaces, and fascist scapegoating of minority groups is always a Trojan horse to normalise violent political repression.

The discrimination LGBTQIA+ people experience in society and even from their own families is endemic and a truth those comfortable with heteronormative privilege such as myself can never fully understand, which is exactly why we all need to do what we can to allow people
to live their lives and be themselves unencumbered by prejudice or bullying of any kind.

Businesses and supermarkets putting up rainbow flags, nice as it is to see, is not enough when the government, media, and extremist groups are expressly targeting anything and everything LGBTQ.

Pride is a protest and a wonderful expression of community, let’s keep it that way until homophobia is history and love is the order of the day on a fair and free planet. This article is dedicated to my loved ones in the LGBTQIA community.

For more information on Swindon Pride click HERE.

REVIEW – Devizes Arts Festival – Marcus Brigstocke 9th June 2023 @ The Corn Exchange

A Top-Class Comedian At Work

Andy Fawthrop

The Devizes Arts Festival hit the half-way stage last night with an absolute sell-out performance. Honestly, you couldn’t move in the Corn Exchange last night, with every possible space used to get people in. Thank goodness the aircon was working!

You’d probably have to have been living on another planet not to know who Marcus Brigstocke is. In my book, he’s a major comedy talent as writer, actor, presenter and performer. Since the mid-1990s, he’s been on TV and on Radio 4 more frequently than you’ve heard about a Tory political scandal, which is quite a lot.

Last night he did two sets – one short introductory session, before bringing on New Zealander Jarred Christmas, and then a much longer second session to fill the second half.

Christmas’ appearance was something of a surprise to me, since no support act had been billed, and I suspect also to most of the people in the room. Also no stranger to TV and radio, his set was funny and engaging. Hitting on themes such as Zoom, the Haka, drinking pints of Baileys, body changes, incontinence and what he referred to as the British Army’s use of “decompression” camps in Malta for servicemen returning to the UK from Iraq and Afghanistan. There were a string of good running gags, a few of which could never be repeated here.

But, good as he was, he wasn’t the reason people had bought tickets in their hundreds. We’d all come to see Mr. Brigstocke, and his main set was well worth waiting for. Starting off at a gentle canter, he poked light fun at the Coronation, the Queen’s reputation as being “funny”, and the reasons why he’d quite enjoyed the lockdown period of Covid (“the best two Christmases I’ve ever had”, the shared single-use face-mask, the saving vaccines, and the devastating impact on cottaging on Clapham Common).

Building up the pace, he began to lay into the “wellness” movement, with particular scorn reserved for Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop products (especially scented candles, and vagina-steaming – I’ll never look at a dishwasher quite the same way again). Gradually his laser-like sarcasm alighted on subjects as varied as rolling TV news (we don’t really need it), the need to stop asking “thick people” what they happen to think about complex subjects (they have no bloody idea), and some of the latest political news. Having got that off his chest, he drew the set to a gentler close by talking of his more recent personal life, his second marriage, his new child and being a parent again.

My take was that (as I’d fully expected him to be), Marcus was extremely funny. The audience clearly loved it too, and cheered to the rafters. But what makes him so good? My personal analysis is that his skill lies in his light touch. He skewers his subject with a sharp stiletto rather (as some lesser comics do) bludgeoning his subjects to death. He makes his point and moves on. Whilst he riffs on a theme, he doesn’t labour the joke. He swears very rarely, so that when he does it’s for real emphasis, not to “shock”. He does pick on a few people in the audience, but in the best possible way. He belittles and shames no-one (he reserves his hatred and contempt for self-serving politicians), and uses the interactions to make friends or simply to emphasise a point he’s making. He avoids all the lazy techniques beloved of lesser comics. Definitely a master craftsman.

An absolutely cracking night out – well done the folks at DAF for bringing such a great performer to our little old town.

The Devizes Arts Festival continues at various venues around town until next Saturday 17th June.

Tickets can be booked at Devizes Books or online at www.devizesartsfestival.org.uk

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