Artist Amelia Pimlott is back at Norden Farm this Christmas working with local schools and community groups on our Miki themed art installation.
This SEND friendly space will be a wash of gentle light and colour, a calm space where children can relax on a bean bag and soak up the atmosphere.
Featuring work created by:
The Autism Group
Thames Valley Adventure Playground
Cookham Rise
Boyne Hill School
Alwyn Infant School
With music from Miki by Slot Machine Theatre.
The exhibition will also feature entries from our art competition for local children, inspired by our Christmas show Miki. Come on down to catch the winning entries and to see if you can spot your masterpiece!
Saturday 2 December – Saturday 30 December
The Gallery at Norden Farm
Entry is Free
Miki, Polar Bear and Penguin live in a very far away place. It’s an icy world where nothing ever grows. One midwinter eve, they make a wish and Miki embarks on a magical adventure in search of a star...
Based on the book by Stephen Mackey, Miki is an inspiring story about friendship, courage and adventure. It features amazing underwater creatures, enchanting music and extraordinary puppetry.
'Young audiences alternate between giggling with delight and total transfixion' ★★★★ The Stage
Suitable for ages 3+ years.
Created by Slot Machine, the company that have previously brought hit shows One Snowy Night and Kipper's Snowy Day to our stage.
Relaxed Performances
The performances on Saturday 2 December at 11am and Wednesday 27 December at 11am are Relaxed. Ideal for families with babies or toddlers and children with SEND. Everyone is welcome to join us for this friendly format.
Signed Performance
The performance on Wednesday 20 December at 2pm will be signed.
Run Time
Miki is 50 minutes long.
Tickets
Courtyard Theatre
£15.50 | £13.50 under 16s
Family & Friends (4 people) £54
Earlybird offer Family & Friends £50 (if booked before Thursday 31 August)
Tickets for children under 18 months
For this show, tickets/seats are not required for children under 18 months who are happy to sit on laps
Led by Annet Bowler
Zumba with Annet is a fun, easy to follow, dance based class. Get fit and exercise in disguise to uplifting Latin rhythms!
This 60 minute class feels more than a party that exercise class. It suits all levels of ability and beginners are very welcome.
Zumba is a total workout, combining all elements of fitness – cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility.
It can help make you feel happy, healthy, strong, amazing, unstoppable and confident!
Autumn
26 Oct - 21 Dec
Please note Carla Leech will be teaching this class on Thurs 23 Nov.
Spring
11 Jan - 27 Apr, exc 7 Mar and 11 Apr
11.30am – 12.30pm
£7 per class | £30 for 5 sessions a term
Suitable for ages 18+ years.
If the tutor is unavailable for a session, a replacement will be provided wherever possible.
Run time tbc
This year Christmas will come early with André Rieu’s cinema special White Christmas - a celebration you will never forget.
From the first jingled bell, you will be immersed in the incomparable Christmas atmosphere of André’s winter wonderland. Marvel at the magnificently decorated Christmas palace, complete with snow, two ice rinks, gorgeous winter scenes, romantic lighting, red carpet, countless lights, 150 beautiful chandeliers and over 50 Venetian candelabras.
Savour the spirit of the season while singing and dancing in the aisles to timeless Christmas carols, romantic waltzes and beautiful songs from all over the world - Jingle Bells, Ave Maria, Oh Holy Night, Hallelujah, Sleigh Ride and many more! Cinema audiences will also enjoy exclusive backstage access, as cinema host Charlotte Hawkins speaks with André about creating his musical winter wonderland. It’s a perfect early Christmas present for André fans!
Join André Rieu and his Johann Strauss Orchestra for their brand new Christmas concert from the comfort of Norden Farm’s Courtyard Theatre Cinema. An unforgettable festive treat for the whole family!
Courtyard Theatre
£16
Led by Jim Maving
For novice guitarists who can string chords together, strum confidently and move between chords with some ease, to take the next steps. You will learn some classic songs, interesting chords, light music theory and the 12-bar blues.
These classes are split by skills level;
Beginners A - Recently completed the Absolute Beginners course but still some way to go. Yet to tackle bar chords and complicated rhythms.
Beginners B - Well on the way and able to do bar chords
Beginners C - Almost Intermediate but not quite yet.
If you've never played guitar you need to book on the Absolute Beginners course!
Autumn
7pm - 8pm
12 Oct - 16 Nov exc 26 Oct (5 weeks)
23 Nov - 21 Dec (5 weeks)
£50 per 5 week course
Booking cut off time: 6pm on the first day of each course
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
You will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Suitable for ages 18+ years.
Caribbean-born Michele Stodart is an award-winning solo artist, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist now based in London.
Best renowned as bassist, vocalist and co-songwriter of Mercury-nominated, double-platinum selling band, The Magic Numbers, who she continues to play and tour world-wide.
Michele has always pursued her own writing alongside her band and nurtured a love for folk/Americana artists as Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Emmylou Harris, Lucinda Williams and Gillian Welch.
After almost a decade of touring, she took time out to record an album of her own songs: Wide-Eyed Crossing (2012), a southern-drenched journey into Americana country blues.
She soon became known for her intimate, heart-wrenching live performances and gained recognition for her solo material. This helped establish her as a singer-songwriter in her own right. She was signed by One Little Independent and a second solo album - Pieces (2016) - followed shortly after, receiving great critical acclaim for its melodic, cinematic, Americana -influenced confessional songs.
Michele’s diverse skills as a songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer and musical director led to many collaborative projects in the studio or on stage with artists including Kathryn Williams, Billy Bragg, Bernard Butler, David Ford, Natalie Imbruglia, Ren Harvieu, Charlie Dore, David Kitt, Hannah White, Rachel Sermanni, O'Hooley and Tidow.
In 2022 she received public recognition for her talent. Following this she was awarded the AMA-UK Instrumentalist Of The Year award. In January 2023 she was invited back as musical director at the UK Americana Awards.
Michele will be releasing her third solo album Invitation in September 2023. She will be touring in support of the album shortly after.
Studio
£16
Dir: Justine Triet 2023 | 152 mins
(French with English subtitles)
Winner of the Palme d'Or, Cannes 2023. For the past year, Sandra, her husband Samuel, and their eleven-year-old son Daniel have lived a secluded life in a remote town in the French Alps. When Samuel is found dead in the snow below their chalet, the police question whether he was murdered or committed suicide. Samuel's suspicious death is presumed murder, and Sandra becomes the main suspect.
What follows is not just an investigation into the circumstances of Samuel's death but an unsettling psychological journey into the depths of Sandra and Samuel's conflicted relationship.
‘Justine Triet’s Palme d'Or-winning film pivots on a violent death, but really it is the dead man’s relationship with his enigmatic, successful wife that is on trial’ BFI Sight and Sound
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
Led by Jim Maving
Play guitar but stuck in a rut? Want to play some notable songs and impress your friends? Then this is the course for you. Rediscover your 6-string and why you took it up originally.
Learn some classic songs as well as learning your pentationic scales, slide guitar and alternate tunings
Autumn
12 Oct - 16 Nov exc 26 Oct (5 weeks)
30 Nov - 21 Dec (4 weeks)
8.30pm - 9.30pm
£50 per 5 week course
Booking cut off time: 6pm on the first day of each course
Alternative classes include:
If you've never played guitar you need to book on the Absolute Beginners course!
Beginners A - Recently completed the Absolute Beginners course but still some way to go. Yet to tackle bar chords and complicated rhythms.
Beginners B - Well on the way and able to do bar chords
Beginners C - Almost Intermediate but not quite yet.
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
You will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Suitable for 18+ years.
Led by Julie Potter
This class is suited to those who have been practising for at least 6. My intention for this class is to move our practise forward, explore different avenues and approaches to the traditional postures. We will be aiming to be going deeper into ‘awareness’ and ‘noticing’.
The yoga I teach is an evolution of over 20 years of practice and study, perhaps moving away from ‘external’ evaluation of the postures and moving towards an ‘internal’ sense of the postures, moving away from the more used traditional approach of systemised yoga to a more experiential approach. Whilst looking at traditional Hatha Yoga postures and pranayamas, I will be encouraging fun and freedom within the traditional structure, whilst taking into our awareness fundamental anatomical and functional aspects required by our bodies for maximum wellbeing benefits.
Please bring a blanket, a yoga / Pilates mat, and wear loose comfortable clothing.
Autumn
3 Nov - 15 Dec ( 7 weeks)
£12 per session | or £63 per 7 week course
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
You will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Singing is a great way to relieve stress and promote well-being.
Meet new people and take some time for you in this new acappella choir for mums, dads, grandparents, carers and their babies!
It is a baby friendly class, created especially so you can bring the baby you care for. Grown ups are in a semi circle (with room for your buggy next to you) and babies can sit, crawl or play on the blanket in front of you.
These uplifting classes are led by conductor/composer (and mum) Marta Radwan. There's no auditions, no singing experience is needed and you don't need to have a 'good voice' - just an openness to have a go! You'll be sure to know the songs and there will even be some which include your little one.
There's also:
* Free on-site parking
* Café (open all day)
* Baby changing facilities
Mums, Dads, Grandparents, Carers all welcome with their babies under 18 months
Fri 13 Oct - 17 Nov, exc 27 Oct (5 weeks)
24 Nov - 15 Dec (4 weeks)
12.30pm - 1.30pm
£10 per session | £36 for 4 week course | £40 for 5 week course
Led by Dr Marta Mathea Radwan
Norden Farm’s Daytime Choir is a fun, friendly, non-auditioned choir for everyone. We learn by ear, so you don’t need music experience. Our music ranges from gospel, world and jazz to pop and classical - anything that sounds great and is a joy to sing. Joining us is a great way to meet people and sing your stress away.
Autumn
13 Oct - 17 Nov, exc 27 Oct (5 weeks)
24 Nov - 15 Dec (4 weeks)
Spring
12 Jan - 9 Feb (5 weeks)
23 Feb - 22Mar (5 weeks)
Drop in: 19 Apr & 26 Apr
£12 per session | £50 for 5 week course | £40 for 4 week course
Suitable for 18+ years
About the tutor
Dr Marta Mathea Radwan is an award-winning vocalist, composer and musical director. Heralding from Poland and with over 30 years' experience in musical performance, Marta conducts choirs around London, including: jazz group Alle Choir London, Offbeat a cappella community choirs in Acton and Richmond, and Singing for Fun groups at Brunel University London.
Performed by Robert Habermann.
The Greatest Songs From The Rat Pack
Robert Habermann sings the great songs and tells the amazing story of the most famous group of singers in the world.
Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jnr.
Created as a prank, The Rat Pack carried the motto Never Rat on a Rat!
Award winning singer Robert Habermann sings the songs and tells the fabulous story of this infamous group of film stars.
Songs include: My Kind of Town, The Birth of the Blues, That’s Amore, Mr. Bojangles, The Tender Trap, New York New York, When You’re Smiling, My Way and many more.
Studio
£15
Led by Janette Moy
Sound Baths are deeply relaxing, anyone can join in. Lay down, cosy and Janette will share beautiful sounds of Gong, Tibetan bowls, Irish Drum ( Bodhran ), Rainstick, Sansula, Kochi chimes and more. Taking you on a journey into the heart of Sacred Sound.
As you relax and bathe in the healing vibrations, your body resonates within these pure tones and you begin to feel retuned and in harmony. Healing can happen at cellular level, our bodies, mind and emotions draw from the sounds the vibration that is needed to bring us into inner balance.
You will need to bring a yoga mat or blanket to lie on. A small cushion for under head comfort. A blanket to cover up. Anything else you want to bring to make a cosy nest. Eye mask if you use one.
We also run daytime Sound Bath classes, click here to find out more.
Autumn
Fri 8 Dec
Spring
Fri 12 Jan, 2 Feb, 8 Mar, 19 Apr
6.30pm - 7.30pm
£15 per session
Suitable for 18+ years
Please note, to prevent disruption to the class, latecomers may not be admitted.
Led by SalsaStyle
Specialising for twenty years in providing individual attention to help you develop dance techniques and grow in confidence. SalsaStyle will ensure everyone feels welcome no matter what level.
Autumn
20 Oct - 17 Nov (5 weeks)
24 Nov - 22 Dec (5 weeks)
Spring
12 Jan - 9 Feb (5 weeks)
16 Feb - 15 Mar (5 weeks)
22 Mar - 26 Apr, exc 29 Mar (5 weeks)
8.15pm - 9.15pm
£12 per session | £50 for 5 weeks
Don't forget to stay for the Salsa Social from 9.15pm - 10pm: stay after the class for a dance and drink!
Box Office closes at 8pm but online booking is still available.
Click here for more information about SalsaStyle.
Step right into the heart of a Victorian holiday tale with The Circus Christmas Cabaret!
This is no ordinary circus - it's a fantastic journey guided by the one and only Scrooge, who serves as our host and introduces all the incredible circus acts.
Imagine a chilly evening in Victorian London, where the holiday spirit is about to transform a once-grumpy old man into a symbol of festive cheer. As the curtains open, you'll be transported to a time of cobblestone streets and gaslit charm, with Scrooge himself taking centre stage.
Our extraordinary cast, brimming with talent and charisma, performs breathtaking circus acts that will leave you spellbound. With Scrooge as your guide, you'll witness a perfect blend of mesmerizing acrobatics and heartwarming moments, all in the spirit of the season.
Join us on this enchanting journey where the transformation of Scrooge mirrors the magic of the holidays. Bring your loved ones and your holiday spirit, and let us transport you to a place where redemption, joy, and extraordinary performances come together.
Don't miss this unique Victorian circus cabaret experience that promises to create cherished memories.
Secure your ticket and be a part of 'Scrooge's Spectacular Circus Cabaret,' where the magic of Dickens meets the wonder of the circus in a celebration like no other.
See you under the twinkling lights of our big top.
Courtyard Theatre
Standard (ages 15+ years) £18
Children ages 3 - 14 years £8
Family Ticket (2 adults and 2 Children) £40
Children ages 3 years and under Free
Led by Deborah Le Vene-Page.
Align and Flow Yoga is influenced by the biomechanics and heart orientated philosophy of the Anusara Hatha style of yoga. With a specific alignment focus within the flow of postures the practice will tone and strengthen the body, improve posture and create more freedom in the body and mind resulting in a calm and relaxed state of being.
Each week there will be a different theme weaving its’ way through the session, but a typical class starts with breathing techniques to centre and ground, poses to warm up and then progresses to a fun and challenging mix of vinyasa and alignment yoga.
This class is designed to cultivate focus, stamina, strength, and flexibility. Leaving time at the end for a well-deserved relaxation.
Come prepared for an energising class that will also leave you feeling relaxed.
Suitable for 18+ years
Autumn
16 Sept - 9 Dec , exc 23 Sept & 25 Nov (11 weeks)
£12.50 per session | £115.50 for 11 week course
10am - 11am
Suitable for all levels of experience. Please bring a yoga mat with you.
A Drop In workshop on Parade day.
Get parade ready in 20 mins!
Drop in to Maidenhead Library to make and decorate a simple willow and tissue lantern ready to illuminate on parade night. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Sat 9 Dec | 10.30am - 2pm | Suitable for 6+ years | £5 per person
Other Drop In Lantern Making Workshops:
There are also Drop In Lantern Making Workshops in the Nicholsons Centre:
Sun 26 Nov | 10.30am - 4pm | Suitable for 6+ years | £5 per person
Sun 3 Dec | 10.30am - 4pm | Suitable for 6+ years | £5 per person
Find out more about this year's Lantern Parade here.
Led by Jo Hall
A waterfall in full flood is one of the most exciting things to paint. We will learn to paint brush strokes that really go with the flow of rushing water. To make the waterfall convincing involves understanding the supporting landscape, light, and especially the tonal contrasts.
We will look at how this has been achieved by American and European artists before painting our own pictures. Photographic reference will be supplied or bring your own.
Please bring your own materials as outlined below.
Acrylic paints, acrylic medium (not essential), and brushes andor painting knife, mixed media paper or canvas about A3 size or larger if you like to work with large brushes, palette, water pots, stick of charcoal, table easel, paper towel, if using paper this should be attached to a board and taped all the way round with masking tape, spare papersketchbook to work out composition and colours.
Sat 9 Dec
11am - 4pm
£42 per session
Led by Annet Bowler
Zumba with Annet is a fun, easy to follow, dance based class. Get fit and exercise in disguise to uplifting Latin rhythms!
This 60 minute class feels more than a party that exercise class. It suits all levels of ability and beginners are very welcome.
Zumba is a total workout, combining all elements of fitness – cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility.
It can help make you feel happy, healthy, strong, amazing, unstoppable and confident!
Autumn
4 Nov -16 Dec
11.30am – 12.30pm
£7 per class | £30 for 5 sessions a term
Please note Heena Rehman will be teaching this class on Sat 14 Oct.
Suitable for ages 18+ years.
Join Norden Farm’s Storyteller in the Story Den for a magical story session based around our Christmas show, Miki!
Each session lasts 30 minutes.
Saturday 2 December
Saturday 9 December
Saturday 16 December
Saturday 23 December
Saturday 30 December
£4 per adult and child
Suitable for ages 4 - 8 years
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Saturday 9 December 2023
• 4.30pm Live Music from Dhol Collective and Babel Brass Band - plus performances from Leo's Circus
• 5pm Parade departs from Maidenhead Town Hall with live music from Dhol Collective
• 5.45pm - 6.15pm Live music and entertainment continues including performances by Leo's Circus
The Carnival of the Animals Lantern Parade, Take Flight! will be held on Saturday 9 December. Featuring live music and entertainment, we will light up the night in Maidenhead.
This year’s theme of all things feathered will bring a joyful parade of weird and wonderful creatures to Maidenhead’s streets with stilt walking performances and hula hoop artists from Leo’s Circus joining the fun.
We will have live music from Dhol Collective and Babel Brass Band, as well as a host of beautiful handmade lanterns from local schools and community groups.
Norden Farm will once again team up with SameSky, an award-winning community arts charity who have been creating fantastic lanterns, costumes and community events since 1987.
Get involved at one of our Lantern Making workshops, running throughout November and December. Our expert lantern makers will guide you through the process to create your own lantern to illuminate at the parade.
Relaxed area We've teamed up with The Autism Group and Maidenhead Library to offer a quiet area for viewing the Lantern Parade. It's a space where children who will benefit from it can enjoy the Parade in a relaxed setting. To book a space in the quiet area, please email: jessica.thompson@nordenfarm.org in advance.
Rio Deli at Maidenhead library will be staying open late on the evening of the parade to supply warm drinks and snacks to parade goers.
Get involved at one of our Lantern Making Workshops, running throughout November and December. Our expert lantern makers will guide you through the process to create your own lantern to illuminate at the parade.
Lantern Making Workshops at Norden Farm
Across 2 hours weave an intricate animal-inspired willow frame before covering and decorating your creation. covering and decorating. Suitable for 6+ years, pre-booking essential.
Sat 18 Nov | 10.30am – 12.30pm and 2pm – 4pm | Suitable for 6+ years | £7 per person | Book here.
Sat 25 Nov | 10.30am – 12.30pm and 2pm – 4pm | Suitable for 6+ years | £7 per person | Book here.
Drop In Lantern Making Workshops in the town centre
There are also Drop In Lantern Making Workshops in the town centre. Get parade ready in 20 mins! Drop in to make and decorate a simple willow and tissue lantern ready to illuminate on parade night.
Workshops in the Nicholson Centre
Sun 26 Nov | 10.30am - 4pm | Suitable for 6+ years | £5 per person | More information
Sat 2 Dec | 10.30am - 4pm | Suitable for 6+ years | £5 per person | More Information
Workshops at Maidenhead Library on Parade Day
Sat 9 Dec | 10.30am - 2pm | Suitable for 6+ years | £5 per person | More information
Norden Farm are also working with local schools and community groups to ensure that the community as a whole is represented and involved in this fantastic event.
With thanks to our supporters:
Spoore Merry Rixman • The Cyril Taylor Charitable Foundation • Braxtons • The Louis Baylis Charitable Trust
Dir: Kristoffer Borgli 2023 | 102 min
A wickedly entertaining comedy starring Nicolas Cage.
Hapless family man Paul Matthews finds his life turned upside down when millions of strangers suddenly start seeing him in their dreams. But when his nighttime appearances take a nightmarish turn, Paul is forced to navigate his newfound stardom.
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
Led by Amanda Schenk
Amanda Schenk is the visual artist behind Norden Farm's much-loved (and Instagrammed) glass corridor artwork in the school holidays. Join Amanda for this new drawing course, aimed at helping to create a sense of calm and relaxation through drawing patterns.
Suitable for all abilities, the workshops will focus on building confidence in your drawing abilities - concentrating on the soothing journey of the drawing experience, rather than the finished drawing.
In each session you'll explore how to produce different types of patterns in abstract drawings - looking at different designs each week.
You will need: paper (plain, no smaller than A5), lead pencil, eraser, sharpener, black fine liner or a pen. Optional is a black marker.
Autumn
13 Nov and 4 Dec
7.30pm - 8.45pm (online only)
£8 per class | £28 per 4 week course
Suitable for ages 18+ years
Led by Zoe Brennan
Suitable for all abilities, Zoe’s class will help anyone wishing to improve their flexibility, alignment, co-ordination, posture, balance and breathing and will focus on stabilising and strengthening your core.
Zoe will adapt exercises to suit your individual needs and mobility. At the end of the class we will take a few minutes to relax and unwind with some mindfulness.
All abilities are welcome.
You will need your own mat.
Autumn
17 Oct - 21 Nov (5 weeks)
28 Nov - 19 Dec (4 weeks)
Spring
9 Jan - 6 Feb (5 weeks)
20 Feb - 26 Mar, exc 12 Mar (5 weeks)
Drop in: 16 Apr & 23 Apr
11am - 12pm
£12 per class | £50 per 5 week course.
Suitable for 18+ years.
Other classes include:
Pilates - Beginners
Pilates - Intermediate
Led by Zoe Brennan.
Suitable for people with some Pilates experience or those who are looking for a slightly more challenging class. Still covering alignment, breathing and centering but with more focus on strengthening and toning your body. At the end of the class we will take a few moments to relax and unwind.
You will need your own mat.
Autumn
17 Oct - 21 Nov (5 weeks)
28 Nov - 19 Dec (4 weeks)
Spring
9 Jan - 6 Feb (5 weeks)
20 Feb - 26 Mar, exc 12 Mar (5 weeks)
Drop in: 16 Apr & 23 Apr
12:15pm - 1.15pm
£12 per class | £50 for 5 weeks
Suitable for ages 18+ years.
Other classes include:
Pilates - Beginners
Pilates - Mixed Abilities
Led by Zoe Brennan.
Suitable for anyone new to Pilates or wishing to improve their flexibility, co-ordination, posture, balance, breathing and focus on stabilising the core. At the end of the class we will take a few moments to relax and unwind.
All abilities are welcome.
You will need your own mat.
Autumn
17 Oct - 21 Nov (5 weeks)
28 Nov - 19 Dec (4 weeks)
Spring
9 Jan - 6 Feb (5 weeks)
20 Feb - 26 Mar, exc 12 Mar (5 weeks)
Drop in: 16 Apr & 23 Apr
1.30pm - 2.30pm
£12 per class | £50 per 5 week course £40 per 4 week course.
Suitable for 18+ years.
Other classes include:
Pilates - Mixed Abilities
Pilates - Intermediate
We are inviting anyone with a love of purely acoustic live music to come along and either join in or, just come to listen.
Arthur Holland will be your host for the evening, There will be no charge and we’re inviting a wide range of ages to come and sing, play or listen. No need to pre-book, just come along and enjoy.
Tuesday 14 November
Tuesday 12 December
7pm - 10pm | Free Entry
Led by Salina Gatto
Brush lettering is a modern form of calligraphy that can be practiced everyday and even on the go. Just put a brush in your bag and you’re all set.
It is not only a way to make beautiful notes for people to make them feel good but a great way to practice mindfulness.
In the 2 hours you have together, you will be tackling exercises of the basic forms of brush calligraphy while being able to add your own personal flairs once you establish the basics.
You will get to take home present tags that you have personalised and decorated using the lettering techniques from the class.
Salina is Looking forward to lettering with you all.
Tues 12 Dec
7pm - 9pm
£55 per session
Led by Seann Wilkinson
A non-audition community choir open to all. Working on everything from Madonna to Les Mis, from gospel to pop - this is an opportunity to meet people, learn some harmonies and sing your hearts out. No experience required. Enthusiasm absolutely necessary!
Autumn
Tues 5 Sept - 19 Dec (exc 24 Oct)
7.30pm – 9pm
£11 per session | £150 per 15 week term
An Albion Christmas is widely regarded as the premier seasonal show. They have been touring for 23 years and attract sell-out audiences across the UK.
Featuring the combined talents of Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Kellie While (Albion Band), Simon Care (Edward II) and the Guvnor himself, Ashley Hutchings MBE.
They take to the stage for an evening of traditional English Christmas music, song and celebratory readings.
Ashley Hutchings is founder of Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span and The Albion Band.
Kellie While takes time out from working with her mum, Chris While, for which both the UK press and public alike have praised her. Folk enthusiasts will know Kellie from her work with The Albion Band. She received personal praise from Ron Sexsmith for her beautiful version of his song Riverbed on her album Tenacious. It put her on the map as one of this country’s finest voices.
Simon Care is currently working with Edward II He has always had a passion for Traditional English dance and song. Simon also works with Banter, Tickled Pink and the Morris On Band.
Simon Nicol finishes the line up to make this a truly festive treat. He is a founder member of Fairport Convention and regarded as one of the finest acoustic guitarists in the world. His voice is pretty special too!
The Albion Christmas Show is a seasonal mixture of carols, spoken word and humorous readings. It really is the perfect way to start your festivities. This year will see a material chosen by our audience, it promises to be a fantastic set drawing on material from our extensive back catalogue.
'The perfect antidote to the corporate Christmas' The Guardian
Voted in the Top Ten Unmissable Shows this Christma by The Telegraph in 2018
Courtyard Theatre
£25
Led by Julie Potter
This class is particularly suited to beginners, those returning to yoga having had a break, those with specific injuries or conditions or even those that consider themselves to be of a ‘certain age’ that might need a less challenging approach. We will cover general breathing practises, the basic and gentler postures, together with general information and possible discussion around movement and the potential difficulties we might come up against.
The aim will be to relax and enjoy.
The yoga I teach is an evolution of nearly 30 years of practice and study, with a broad experience of many styles and teachers. In recent years I have been moving away from ‘external’ evaluation of the postures and moving towards an ‘internal’ sense of the postures, moving away from the more used traditional approach of systemised yoga to a more experiential and ‘felt’ approach, influenced by teachers who have been inspired by the teachings of Vanda Scaravelli.
Please bring a blanket, a yoga / Pilates mat, and wear loose comfortable clothing
Autumn
1 Nov - 13 Dec (7 weeks)
£12 per session | £63 per 7 week course
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
You will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Led by Funky Monkeys
Have you ever wondered what your baby is thinking or feeling? Would it help if they could communicate those thoughts and feelings to you?
Sign & Rhyme teaches parents/carers and their little ones, simple sign language that enables them to communicate before speech takes over. Just like waving and clapping, your baby can learn to tell you when they’re hungry, in pain or just that they’ve seen a dog! This is empowering to them and hugely rewarding for you! In most cases babies who sign learn to talk sooner than their non-signing peers.
Signs are used in class, like actions, to accompany songs and nursery rhymes and with an array of props, puppets, instruments and the use of disco lights, bubbles and parachutes to enhance the sensory experience and make learning more fun.
There's also:
* Free on-site parking
* Café (open all day)
* Baby changing facilities
Mums, Dads, Grandparents, Carers all welcome with their babies under 18 months
Wed 13 Sept - 20 Dec (exc 25 Oct)
1.45pm - 2.30pm
£7.50 for 1 Adult and 1 Child | £4.50 for additional siblings
Led by Creative Eye.
Norden Farm's Crafternoons are relaxed crafting sessions for older people.
Get crafty with a range of activities, or bring along your own projects to work on with support from tutor Kayleigh Robinson.
You can learn new skills, meet new people and try something new, a cup of tea is included with the ticket price. If you are unable to attend in person you can log on from home to chat and join in the session.
Please note that today's session (Dec 6) is cancelled.
Autumn Season
Wed 6 Dec - Cancelled
Wed 13 Dec Salt Dough Ornament
Wed 20 Dec Fabric Tree Ornament
Spring Season
Wed 10 Jan Mini Wooden Boxes
Wed 17 Jan Rock Cactus
Wed 24 Jan Scrap Fabric Wreaths
Wed 31 Jan Wooden Squirrel Feeder Box
Wed 14 Feb Button Flowers
Wed 21 Feb Wooden Bookmarks
Wed 28 Feb Wooden Hanging Sign Decoupage
Wed 6 Mar Squeegee Art
Wed 13 Mar Mug Decorating
Wed 20 Mar Mini Scented Pouches
Wed 27 Mar Easter Wreath
Wed 3 Apr Wooden 3D Bird Hanging Decoration
Wed 10 Apr Magnets
Wed 17 Apr Wire Tree
Wed 24 Apr Paper Fans
There will be no session on Wed 7 Feb.
Social Arts Crafternoons is a partially funded project run by Norden Farm with support from The Berkshire Community Foundation.
Suitable for ages 60+ years.
2pm - 3pm
£5 per session, including a cup of tea
These are blended sessions, where you can take part in person at Norden Farm or online via Zoom.
If you need transport to Norden Farm for this session please contact Jess Thompson at jess.thompson@nordenfarm.org / 01628 682563 to talk through your requirements.
Led by Jim Maving
For novice guitarists who can string chords together, strum confidently and move between chords with some ease, to take the next steps. You will learn some classic songs, interesting chords, light music theory and the 12-bar blues.
These classes are split by skills level;
Beginners A - Recently completed the Absolute Beginners course but still some way to go. Yet to tackle bar chords and complicated rhythms.
Beginners B - Well on the way and able to do bar chords
Beginners C - Almost Intermediate but not quite yet.
If you've never played guitar you need to book on the Absolute Beginners course!
Autumn
11 Oct - 15 Nov exc 25 Oct (5 weeks)
29 Nov - 20 Dec (4 weeks)
7pm - 8pm
£50 per 5 week course
Booking cut off time: 6pm on the first day of each course
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
You will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Suitable for ages 18+ years.
Christmas Charity Concert.
Tonight’s Concert is in aid of Accessible Boating Thames.
A local charity operating a small fleet of accessible boats for a wide range of abilities from Bisham Abbey.
A wide variety of music including tunes from shows, films, and traditional Christmas favourites.
Courtyard
£10
Led by Jim Maving
For novice guitarists who can string chords together, strum confidently and move between chords with some ease, to take the next steps. You will learn some classic songs, interesting chords, light music theory and the 12-bar blues.
These classes are split by skills level;
Beginners A - Recently completed the Absolute Beginners course but still some way to go. Yet to tackle bar chords and complicated rhythms.
Beginners B - Well on the way and able to do bar chords
Beginners C - Almost Intermediate but not quite yet.
If you've never played guitar you need to book on the Absolute Beginners course!
Autumn
6 Sept - 4 Oct (5 weeks),
11 Oct - 15 Nov exc 25 Oct (5 weeks)
29 Nov - 20 Dec (4 weeks)
8.30pm - 9.30pm
£50 per 5 week course
Booking cut off time: 6pm on the first day of each course
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
You will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Suitable for ages 18+ years.
Led by Janette Moy
Sound Baths are deeply relaxing, anyone can join in. Lay down, cosy and Janette will share beautiful sounds of Gong, Tibetan bowls, Irish Drum ( Bodhran ), Rainstick, Sansula, Kochi chimes and more. Taking you on a journey into the heart of Sacred Sound.
As you relax and bathe in the healing vibrations, your body resonates within these pure tones and you begin to feel retuned and in harmony. Healing can happen at cellular level, our bodies, mind and emotions draw from the sounds the vibration that is needed to bring us into inner balance.
You will need to bring a yoga mat or blanket to lie on. A small cushion for under head comfort. A blanket to cover up. Anything else you want to bring to make a cosy nest. Eye mask if you use one.
We also run evening Sound Bath classes, click here to find out more.
Autumn
27 Oct, 14 Dec
1pm - 2pm
Spring
12 Jan, 23 Feb, 22 Mar, 12 Apr
£15 per session
Suitable for 18+ years
Please note, to prevent disruption to the class, latecomers may not be admitted.
Dir: Nicolas Philibert 2023 | 109 min
(French with English subtitles)
The Adamant is a unique daycare centre. A floating structure located on the Seine in the heart of Paris, it welcomes adults suffering from mental disorders, offering the kind of care that grounds them in time and space and helps them to recover or keep up their spirits.
‘Philibert’s warm and sympathetic documentary about a boat for mental-health patients on the Seine is a worthy winner of the Berlin film festival’s Golden Bear’ ★★★★ The Guardian
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
Socially Distanced Screening
The screening on Thur 14 Dec 4.30pm is socially distanced with a reduced capacity. Face coverings are optional. Food and drink from our Cafe Bar can be taken into the theatre as normal.
Share your thoughts on contemporary fiction with other readers in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
This season our Book Club will be reading
Autumn
16 Nov, 14 Dec
Thur 14 Dec
The Five people You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom
Spring
18 Jan, 15 Feb, 21 Mar, 18 Apr
Thur 18 Jan
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
Thur 15 Feb
An Officer and a Spy by Robert Harris
Thur 14 Mar
Great Circle by Maggie Shipstead
Thur 18 Apr
Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold
Suitable for 18+ years.
Spaces are limited, early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.
7.30pm – 9.30pm
£5 per session (includes a glass of wine or soft drink from the bar)
Written by Mark Farrelly.
Frankie Howerd was one of Britain’s most loved comedians for half a century. But he had a secret. And the secret’s name was Dennis.
This hugely acclaimed play by Mark Farrelly (Jarman) takes you to the heart of Frankie and Dennis' clandestine relationship, which lasted from the 1950s until Frankie’s death in 1992. It also affords a glorious opportunity to encounter Frankie in full-flight stand up mode.
Packed with laughter, but unafraid of truth, Howerd’s End portrays two humans' journey through closeness, love, grief and all the other things that make life worth living. Come and say farewell to a legend… and learn the art of letting go.
Written by Mark Farrelly
With Simon Cartwright as Frankie Howerd and Mark Farrelly as Dennis Heymer
Directed by Joe Harmston
Running time: 80 mins no interval
'Simply tremendous entertainment' ★★★★★ London Living Large
'Deeply moving' ★★★★ Sardines Magazine
'Hugely entertaining' ★★★★ ReviewsGate
'Sublime' ★★★★ The Reviews Hub
'Don't lose your chance to see Howerd's End if it comes your way' ★★★★ British Theatre Guide
'Heartfelt, funny and with an inspiring message' ★★★★North West End
'Fascinating insight into the life and times of a leading comedy figure' ★★★★ London Theatre 1
Studio
£16
An energetic and creative music and movement class for babies and children under 5.
This fun and funky session uses lights, puppets, parachute, instruments and music to get your little ones moving!
Suitable for ages 9 months - 5 years.
Autumn
6 Oct - 3 Nov, exc 13 Oct (4 weeks)
10 Nov - 1 Dec (4 weeks)
15 Dec and 22 Dec
11am - 11.45am
£7.50 | Siblings (18 months +) £4.50 | £26 for 4 sessions a term
If you would like to book the offer price for 4 sessions, please enter a ticket for each date you would like to attend into your basket and the offer will apply automatically.
Led by Kate Hughes
Join Kate Hughes of Kate Hughes Meditation for an hour of mindfulness, designed to promote calm and awareness.
During the session we will explore breathing techniques, different kinds of meditation, and various mindfulness exercises including some gentle movement (this can be adapted to suit all mobility levels).
No experience of meditation or mindfulness is required, and these sessions are suitable for you if you are an absolute beginner or have done some kind of mindfulness practice before.
Please wear comfortable clothing. The session will end with a relaxation exercise and you may wish to bring your own mat and blanket, although these will be provided.
Autumn
27 Oct, 10 Nov, 15 Dec
6.30pm – 7.30pm
Spring
26 Jan, 23 Feb, 22 Mar, 26 Apr
6.30pm - 7.30pm
£12 per session
Norden Farm Jazz Club Present.
With a career spanning more than 25 years, award winning jazz guitarist Nigel Price has become widely acknowledged as one of the hardest working musicians in the business.
Musically, his blend of flowing bebop lines, deep blues sensibility and his mastery of chording continue to delight audiences and fellow musicians alike. His career highlights include a support show for Gladys Knight at The Royal Albert Hall and an appearance on Van Morrison’s recent album Keep Me Singing.
Starting his professional career in his early 20s, Nigel toured Europe with various reggae and funk bands before settling on a solo guitar career and turning his attention to jazz. Citing early influences as Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass, John McLaughlin and the Mahavishnu Orchestra, Nigel honed his craft by attending gigs and sitting in with the players of the time.
Nigel has played on more than 50 albums including 5 as a leader, spent ten years with acid jazz outfit The Filthy Six, was a member of James Taylor’s band for 3 years (with whom he recorded 5 albums) and performed with the legendary David Axelrod. He has also taught at The International Guitar Foundation at King’s Place, London.
Nigel is a regular performer at London’s Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club where he has made more than 500 appearances.
Studio
£16
Have you been naughty or nice this year? Whatever the answer, HundredWatt Club’s glorious gift to you is this hot toddy of a burlesque show!
Jam packed full of festive, glittering showgirls, bawdy comedy, classic vaudeville and awe inspiring circus acts. Always seductive, always sublime and always that little bit ridiculous – enjoy an evening of vintage inspired, Christmas themed cabaret entertainment. Perfect for a staff night out with a difference, festive party with friends or for helping get that love interest under the mistletoe!
Hundred Watt Club employ and embrace adult themes, strong language and partial nudity – not for the faint hearted or easily offended! There’s no dress code: Hundred Watt Club love it when their audiences dress in their vintage finery and red-carpet glamour, but if you’re more comfy in jeans and sneakers – wear them!
Over 18s only.
‘Old school mischief and timeless raunchiness collide at the Hundred Watt Club. Hats – and corsets – off to Lena Mae for an excellent night of entertainment’ Sussex Express
'Crude and unpleasant…for crude and unpleasant people’ Seetickets review
‘Harking back to the gin drenched halcyon days of a grimy Berlin nightclub in the 1930s, Hundred Watt Club sparkles, fizzles and shines brightly on a dark night.’ Fringe Review (Brighton)
‘Righteous, radical…an absolute riot!’ Mardi Gras Mag
Courtyard Theatre
£20
Dir: Todd Haynes 2023 | 117 mins
The latest film from director Todd Haynes is a pitch-perfect melodrama, focusing on an actor researching for a film about a relationship with a significant age gap.
From the outside, Gracie and Joe are the perfect suburban couple. That is, if you don’t take into account the fact that their relationship was a tabloid sensation 20 years ago.
When Elizabeth, an actor, arrives at their home to research for a role in a film based on Gracie, it becomes clear that the couple’s relationship isn’t as strong as they’d like to believe.
As the truth begins to unspool, and Elizabeth immerses herself in her role, it becomes clear that she’s not the only one acting. What is the truth to Gracie and Joe’s relationship? And is Elizabeth’s presence complicating things even further?
Starring Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore.
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
Open Captioned Screening
The screening on Thur 21 Dec 4.30pm is an Open Captioned Screening. These screenings provide a transcription of the audio from a film. Captions are displayed at the bottom of the cinema screen along with the dialogue from the film.
Hosted by Jeff Lloyd.
Seven challengers choose a song from a category of their choosing (e.g. country, classic rock, novelty, 80s synth pop etc) and challenge Jeff to a battle of taste with the audience voting for their favourite.
Other Vinyl Frontier Events This Season
Your Best of Abba
Lucky Dip
Battle of the Bands
Your Favourite Vs My Favourite
Studio
£10
Dir: Emerald Fennell 2023 | 131 mins
Academy Award winning filmmaker Emerald Fennell (Promising Young Woman) brings a wicked tale of privilege and desire.
Struggling to find his place at Oxford University, student Oliver (Barry Keoghan) finds himself drawn into the world of the charming and aristocratic Felix (Jacob Elordi). When Oliver is invited to Saltburn, the sprawling estate of Felix’s eccentric family, it promises to be a summer never to be forgotten.
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
Come along to Norden Farm for 45 minutes of wintery Arts and Crafts in our Miki themed Gallery
Tuesday 19 December 1pm - 1.45pm
Wednesday 20 December 1pm - 1.45pm
Thursday 21 December 1pm - 1.45pm
Friday 22 December 1pm - 1.45pm
Sessions are 45 minutes.
Suitable for ages 4 - 11 years
All materials provided.
Please note that children must be accompanied by a paying adult.
2 hours and 45 minutes (including one interval).
Join Clara at a delightful Christmas Eve party that becomes a magical adventure once everyone else is tucked up in bed. Marvel at the brilliance of Tchaikovsky’s score, as Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker fight the Mouse King and visit the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Prince in the glittering Kingdom of Sweets. Peter Wright’s much-loved production for The Royal Ballet, with gorgeous period designs by Julia Trevelyan Oman, keeps true to the spirit of this festive ballet classic, combining the thrill of the fairy tale with spectacular classical dancing.
Courtyard Theatre
£16
Hosted by James B Partridge.
Crack out the Christmas Jingles! Join James B Partridge (Primary School Assembly Bangers LIVE) for an evening of pure nostalgia, stepping back in time for some joyous singalong tunes from Christmases past.
You won’t have to sit cross legged by the tree waiting for Santa, but you will be encouraged to sing along! Full of festive musical surprises, throwback mashups and reflections on growing up at Christmas time.
James is a singing teacher and regularly performs across the UK and Europe. He has been featured on BBC Breakfast, Loose Women (ITV) and Vanessa Feltz show (TalkTV). He recently featured live on Jeremy Vine’s BBC Radio 2 show and BBC South East Today.
Studio
£16
James' website
@jbpartridge
@nordenfarm
The greatest hits of Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran.
Two of the UK's most iconic bands will be brought to life in one power packed show!
From Gold to Rio will take you on a nostalgic journey back to the New Romantic era which ruled the charts for over a decade.For the very first time the hits from two of the UK's most iconic bands will be brought to life in one power packed show!
With over 20 top 10 hits the show will feature two hours of non-stop classics including Gold, Rio, True, The Reflex, Through The Barricades, Save A Prayer, Lifeline & Girls on Film to name a few - guaranteed to leave the audience shouting for more!
So, if you’re a Duranie, a Spandie, a Wild Boy or a Soul Boy, then this is something you don’t want to miss!
Courtyard Theatre
£21
Led by Mick McNicholas
Explore the complexities of the human form by working from a professional life model. With a variety of short and long poses. Learn both traditional charcoal drawing methods and new experimental techniques.
Half day sessions comprise of a variety of short and long poses.
Any mediums can be used in these sessions. Materials will be provided, although participants are very welcome to bring their own if you have something you like to work with.
Autumn
18 Nov & 23 Dec
Spring
20 Jan & 16 Mar
11am - 2pm
£25 per session
Suitable for 18+ years
Dir: Sean Anders 2022 | 127 mins
Every Christmas Eve, the Ghost of Christmas Present (played by the hilarious Will Ferrell) handpicks a troubled soul for a supernatural intervention. But this season, he picked the wrong Scrooge. Clint Briggs (Ryan Reynolds) turns the tables on his ghostly host until Present finds himself reexamining his own past, present, and future.
Grab your Santa hats, jingle those bells, and get ready to sing along to the most spirited Christmas story you've ever experienced!
Starring Octavia Spencer, Ryan Reynolds, Sunita Mani, Tracy Morgan and Will Ferrell.
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
An evening of music and dancing in the atmospheric 18th century Long Barn.
A caller will guide you through the dances while ceilidh band Nedron’s Jig provide the live music. Dances include the likes of Cumberland Square 8, Virginia Reel, Gay Gordons and The Willow Tree. No experience necessary!
WHY? A perfect social event for Christmas parties
Long Barn
£16
In a change to the time previously advertised, the Christmas Ceilidh starts at 7.30pm
Dir: Bradley Cooper 2023 | 130 mins
This towering, fearless love story chronicles the lifelong relationship of conductor-composer Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montealegre Cohn Bernstein. Starring Bradley Cooper, Carey Mulligan and Matt Bomer.
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
Dir: Ridley Scott 2023 | 157 mins
Napoleon is a spectacle-filled action epic that details the checkered rise and fall of the iconic French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, played by Joaquin Phoenix.
The film follows Bonaparte's relentless journey to power through the prism of his addictive, volatile relationship with his one true love, Josephine. Showcasing his visionary military and political tactics against some of the most dynamic practical battle sequences ever filmed.
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
Dir: Paul King 2023 | 116 mins
Based on the extraordinary character at the center of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
The film tells the wondrous story of how the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate maker became the beloved Willy Wonka we know today.
An intoxicating mix of magic and music, mayhem and emotion, all told with fabulous heart and humor. Starring Timothée Chalamet in the title role, this irresistibly vivid and inventive
big screen spectacle will introduce audiences to a young Willy Wonka, chock-full of ideas and determined to change the world.
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
Relaxed screening
The screening on Fri 29 Dec at 4.30pm is Relaxed - everyone is welcome to join us for this friendly format. The lights are kept on low and the audience are free to move around, make noise or come in and out of the theatre as needed.
Heck yeah, the hoedown is back by popular demand! Our lively New Year’s Eve event returns to ring in 2024!
Dance the night way on our Courtyard Theatre dance floor to live music from ceilidh and barn dance band Cut a Shine.
No experience is necessary as their caller will be on hand to guide you through all of the steps!
Dust off your cowboy hats, rhinestone adorned outfits or most glamorous attire for a night of unforgettable fun at the Farm!
A fun, lively and thrilling way to celebrate this New Year's Eve!
Age guidance 12+ years
Norden Farm
£25, Supporters £22
Led by Jo Hall
In this course we’ll start by preparing papers for collages and go on to produce collage works from prepared papers and also from “found” and recycled papers (including discarded drawings, paintings and printed material).
Referencing the work of Matisse, John Piper, Max Ernst and Mark Hearld, and others we’ll explore several different collage techniques for making “pure collages” and “mixed media collages” embellished with drawing and painting media. Please bring your own materials and equipment as in the information below.
Please bring;
Acrylic paint and palette, brushes, water pots, pencil.
Alternatively use watercolour or gouache but papers prepared with these require more care for gluing.
Scissors, craft knife if you have one, newspaper, paper towel
Glue: acrylic medium, PVA, Mod-Podge or Pritt Stick
Glue brush, tweezers (useful for picking up small pieces)
Light-weight cartridge paper for prepared papers and support for the collage (any heavy-weight paper 300gsm or more, or mount board or similar). We’ll prepare painted papers from the cartridge paper and you may like to experiment with other papers for making prepared papers.
A small A4 cutting mat would be useful if you have one.
We’ll discuss the use of “found papers”, recycling drawings and paintings, addition of media like; crayon, pen lines, further paint etc. during subsequent weeks.
Led by Guy de Ferrer
Learn how to write stories using your imagination or real life.
Each week we will look at a different element of story writing. By the end of the course, you should understand how to make memorable characters and settings, write convincing dialogue and how to develop plots.
A homework will be set at the end of every session and discussed the following week. You will also receive tutor feedback by email.
All levels are welcome.
9 Jan - 6 Feb (5 weeks)
7pm - 9pm
£100
Online course
Led by Jim Maving
Always wanted to learn guitar but never got around to it? Want to trade your air guitar skills for real guitar skills? It is never too late to learn. Learn guitar right from the very beginning. This is a foundation course for those with little to no experience of playing guitar. You will learn how to hold a guitar and to make the right noises out of it. The aim of these lessons is to get you playing your first song within 4 weeks of lessons, as no-one takes up guitar to strum random chords, it’s all about the songs.
If you are returning to guitar having not played for some time and can barely remember chords this is a great way of getting back into the swing of things.
If you've never played guitar you need to book on the Absolute Beginners course!
These classes are split by skills level;
Beginners A - Recently completed the Absolute Beginners course but still some way to go. Yet to tackle bar chords and complicated rhythms.
Beginners B - Well on the way and able to do bar chords
Beginners C - Almost Intermediate but not quite yet.
Autumn
17 Oct - 14 Nov (5 weeks)
28 Nov - 19 Dec (4 weeks)
7pm - 8pm
Spring
9 Jan - 6 Feb (5 weeks)
20 Feb - 19 Mar (5 weeks)
26 Mar - 23 Apr (5 weeks)
7.45pm - 8.45pm
£50 per 5 week course | £40 per 4 week course
Booking cut off time: 6pm on the first day of each course
Suitable for 18+ years.
Dir: James Hawes 2023 | 110 mins
Telling the true story of Sir Nicholas ‘Nicky’ Winton.
Sir Nicholas Winton was a young London broker who, along with Trevor Chadwick and Doreen Warriner of the British Committee for Refugees in Czechoslovakia, rescued 669 children from the Nazis in the months leading up to World War II.
Nicky visited Prague in December 1938 and found families who had fled the rise of the Nazis in Germany and Austria, living in desperate conditions with little or no shelter and food, and under threat of Nazi invasion. He immediately realised it was a race against time. How many children could he and the team rescue before the borders closed?
Fifty years later, it’s 1988 and Nicky lives haunted by the fate of the children he wasn’t able to bring to safety in England. It’s not until a live BBC television show, That’s Life!, surprises him by introducing him to some surviving children – now adults – that he finally begins to come to terms with the guilt and grief he had carried for five decades.
Starring Anthony Hopkins, Johnny Flynn, Helena Bonham Carter, Jonathan Pryce and Romola Garai.
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
Bring Baby Screening
The screening on Fri 12 Jan 11.30am is exclusively for parents, carers and grown-ups with children under 2 years. Lights are kept on low level and you can move around if you need to. Tickets are £5.50 for adults (including a cup of tea/coffee); babies and infants are free of charge. Seating is unreserved and unaccompanied adults are not admitted.
Open Captioned Screening
The screening on Fri 12 Jan 2pm is an Open Captioned Screening. These screenings provide a transcription of the audio from a film. Captions are displayed at the bottom of the cinema screen along with the dialogue from the film.
Led by Sue Bridge
These sessions are suitable for those with some prior experience of drawing and painting (either previous study or art course participation).
As with the preceding course "Transform your Sketchpad" these 3hr studio sessions will be wide ranging both in terms of media and subject matter. Over the duration of the course you will gain experience in a range of media, acrylic/watercolour, pen and ink and collage. Some sessions will be one off activities other topics may spread over a couple of weeks.
Students to provide their own materials.
Led by Emma Duncan.
In each session children take part in a series of drama games and activities that develop their confidence as well as teaching them drama skills. These include focus, communication, developing a character and voice projection.
As the weeks go on the group will each have a part with some lines to learn in a small-scale show. They will rehearse as a team and share what they have learnt during the last session, more details to follow on this after half term.
Suitable for school years 2 - 6.
'Norden Farm is my favourite after school club, it always keeps me moving and relaxed. It is a great place to go for drama and within a short time, I have become far more confident and expressive' Timothy, age 7
'We have sent both of our children to Youth Theatre at Norden Farm and have seen dramatic improvements in there ability, confidence, social awareness and expressiveness generally and specifically. The environment is safe and developmental in a broad and exciting sense' Alex - parent
Autumn
Wed 20 Sept - Wed 6 Dec, exc 25 Oct
5pm - 6pm
Junior Youth Theatre Bookng Form
Led by Emma Duncan.
Each term we will be focusing on developing the participants confidence and well-being through a series of drama games and activities.
This term the Senior Youth Theatre group are focusing on developing drama skills. They’ll learn a deeper understanding of performance and managing their nerves as well as some more specialised techniques including comedy and physical theatre.
Suitable for school years 7 - 12.
'Norden Farm is my favourite after school club, it always keeps me moving and relaxed. It is a great place to go for drama and within a short time, I have become far more confident and expressive' Timothy, age 7
'We have sent both of our children to Youth Theatre at Norden Farm and have seen dramatic improvements in there ability, confidence, social awareness and expressiveness generally and specifically. The environment is safe and developmental in a broad and exciting sense' Alex - parent
Autumn
Wed 20 Sept - Wed 6 Dec, exc 25 Oct
6.05pm - 7.30pm
Senior Youth Theatre Booking Form
Led by Christina Smith
Do you like to crochet or knit? Join us for a relaxed and creative get together over a drink of your choice.
Suitable for those with experience of crochet / knitting.
Please bring your own project along. Some spare needles and wool will be available.
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
If you are taking part online, you will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Autumn
6 Dec - led by Alice Gilmour
7pm – 8.30pm
£6 including a drink from the bar | £3 online
Spring - Sophie Keaveney will be returning for the Spring term
10 Jan, 7 Feb, 6 Mar, 3 Apr
7pm – 8.30pm
£6 including a drink from the bar | £3 online
Enjoy a fun and relaxing afternoon learning the craft of macrame.
Join our informal workshop, learn the basics of macrame and make a beautiful plant hanger to take home.
David from But One String will guide you through various knots and techniques. Suitable for the complete beginner or those with some experience, this workshop is perfect for all skill levels.
We provide all the necessary materials, so just bring your creativity and eagerness to learn!
Thur 11 Jan, 8 Feb, 28 Mar, 11 Apr
11am – 3pm
£45 per workshop
Led by Neil McCurley
‘Norden Farm’s Community theatre is up and running. The next sessions run from 11 January for ten weeks.
For the first five weeks the sessions will be one offs each on a different area of theatre. You could come to one or all five. You could sign up for one (£12) or all five (£60).
The second five weeks will be a course where you will be working on a play text followed by a performance to the public. The cost of this 5 week course will be £60 (no drop ins).
Sessions are led by Neil McCurley. Neil has spent his adult life working as a theatre practitioner both as a drama teacher and as the Artistic Director of his own theatre company. He has directed over 70 productions.
Week 1 - Spontaneous Improvisation (11 Jan)
Week 2 - Polished Improvisation (18 Jan)
Week 3 - Stage Fighting (25 Jan)
Week 4 - Physical Theatre (1 Feb)
Week 5 - Brecht (8 Feb)
£12 drop in or £60 for all 5
Weeks 6 - 10: working towards a scripted performance (22 Feb - 28 Mar, exc 7 Mar)
£60 for a 5 week course
Everyone over 18 is welcome – no experience necessary
We also have an evening class, which you can view here.
Led by Nanda Sharma
Welcome to Bollybhangra Dance Fitness Party sessions! Nanda teaches her original choreographies to top hits from Bollywood, Bhangra, Belly dance and also other international music and dance rhythms.
The joyful music and movements encourage us to open our hearts and minds to possibilities, improve wellbeing and body-confidence and encourage us to embrace our individuality.
Enjoy the benefits of dance on flexibility and balance, health and fitness, and mood, memory, in a fun and friendly environment, at your own pace- no pressure. Beginners welcome.
Every class feels like a party and your place awaits! Dress up or dress down, some colour, sequins and a jingly bellydance scarf will add to your experience!
Bring water, a towel, wear dance sneakers or trainers.
11 Jan - 8 Feb (5 weeks), 15 Feb - 14 Mar (5 weeks), 21 Mar - 25 Apr, exc 11 Apr (5 weeks)
£11 per session or £45 for 5 weeks
Led by Helen D Evans
This is part of a series of Courses and Workshops led by Helen d Evans
The course is for people with all abilities.
The intention is to spend 3 weeks trying out different hand building techniques.
Week 1: Pinch pots / coiling
Week 2: Slab building
Week 3: Press moulds.
Week 4: The final week will be spent decorating your work with underglazes or glazes.
Your work will then be fired off-site and then ready to collect from Norden Farm.
The price includes: Clay, use of tools, Underglazes, a selection glazes and 2 x firing of your work.
All work will be fired to Earthenware.
You may want to bring with you:
Sketchbook for ideas / with ideas
Pens / Pencils
A cloth to wipe your hands on
An apron
Any clay tools you may have.
After the course.
I will notify you regarding the collection of your work which usually takes between 4-6 weeks.
Fri 12 Jan - Fri 2 Feb (4 weeks)
£100 for a 4-week course
Take your partners please for our Burns Night Ceilidh!
Join the Craigievar Ceilidh Band in the atmospheric 18th century Long Barn for a sociable evening of music and dancing. Guaranteed to have you stamping, reeling and birling – their on-the-floor caller will guide you through the Dashing White Sergeant, Strip the Willow and other dances.
Includes a traditional Burns Night supper of haggis, neeps and tatties or veggie option.
WHY? Featuring musicians from the acclaimed film Four Weddings and a Funeral this lively, fun event is not to be missed!
Long Barn
£24
Ticket includes supper
Craigievar Band website
@nordenfarm
Photo credit: Andrew Scotland
A tale about surprise, fear, luck, love and qualified medical practitioners.
Since Miles’ last tour finished at The London Palladium in 2017, he’s been in The Full Monty on Disney Plus, The Durrells and Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? on ITV, as well as a heap of episodes of Frankie Boyle’s New World Order and Have I Got News For You. He’s made an award-winning radio series and he’s published a novel. But for Covid, he would have played a lead at the RSC. Hey ho. Nevertheless he’s done a play in the West End and played the Emperor of Austria and Europe in a Ridley Scott film.
Yet one sunny day in the middle of all this, he suddenly suffered a brain seizure. This led to the discovery of a tumour the size of a cherry tomato, and a rather pressing need to undergo major neurosurgery. Obviously, one doesn’t wish to make a big deal of it, but the experience has left him with a story to tell and a few things that he’d like to share with the room. So that’s exactly what he’s doing in his new show On I Bang – a tale about surprise, fear, luck, love and qualified medical practitioners.
Courtyard Theatre
£20
Led by Jo Hall
Explore the world of Klee’s magical fish and bird paintings before creating your own imaginative aquarium or bird composition. Please bring your own watercolours and equipment as in the information below. References supplied or bring your own.
Please bring; watercolour paints, watercolour brushes, old toothbrush, palette, water pots, paper towel, pencil, watercolour paper (some available at cost from tutor), drawing board or wood block to tilt board, tape to fix paper to board, paper towel, sponge, scissors.
You might have seen him on Scared of the Dark, Would I Lie to You, Have I Got News for You, The Royal Variety, QI, Blankety Blank, The Last Leg, and tons more as well.
He's been called an 'overnight success' - even though he's been doing stand-up for yonks!
Chris McCausland is hitting the road again with another masterclass in stand-up comedy that has literally been yonks in the making.
Suitable for ages 16+ years.
Courtyard Theatre
£22.50
Led by Neil McCurley
‘Norden Farm’s Community theatre is up and running. The next sessions run from 17 January for ten weeks.
For the first five weeks the sessions will be one offs each on a different area of theatre. You could come to one or all five. You could sign up for one (£12) or all five (£60).
The second five weeks will be a course where you will be working on a play text followed by a performance to the public. The cost of this 5 week course will be £60 (no drop ins).
Sessions are led by Neil McCurley. Neil has spent his adult life working as a theatre practitioner both as a drama teacher and as the Artistic Director of his own theatre company. He has directed over 70 productions.
Week 1 - Spontaneous Improvisation (17 Jan)
Week 2 - Polished Improvisation (24 Jan)
Week 3 - Stage Fighting (31 Jan)
Week 4 - Physical Theatre (7 Feb)
Week 5 - Brecht (21 Feb)
£12 drop in or £60 for all 5 sessions
Weeks 6 - 10: working towards a scripted performance (28 Feb - 27 Mar, exc 14 Feb)
£60 for a 5 week course
Everyone over 18 is welcome – no experience necessary
We also have an evening class, which you can view here.
Led by Fiona Dowling
Join Fiona from Jewellery Moves & learn how to make a set of three stacking rings which fit you perfectly. At this workshop you will learn how to saw, solder, file, hammer, hand-stamp and finish your own sterling silver rings. You will also learn how to make your own bezel setting and set a cabochon (selected from a range of colours provided) within one of your rings. You will leave at the end of the day with three rings (one of which can be hand stamped with a personal message).
Thur 18 Jan
11am - 4pm
£80
The cost of the silver is not included in the course fees. The approximate cost of these materials is £30/£40 and payable to the tutor on the day (ideally in cash).
Please make sure that hair is tied back, please wear closed shoes and bring your glasses if you wear them.
Suitable for 18+ years
About Jewellery Moves:
Taught by Fiona Dowling, a graduate of the Royal College of Art, Jewellery Moves workshops aim to teach traditional craftsmanship, jewellery skills and techniques in small groups with a relaxed atmosphere.
Led by Janette Moy
Kirtan is the practice of gathering together to chant universal mantras. It is the Yoga of Sound, the repetition of the mantras allows us to experience a meditative state. The mantras help relax the mind and re-energise the body/mind as well as release stress/ worries. It is uplifting and healing.
Anyone can join in, you do not have to be able to sing to chant, each of us has a unique primal sound to express and all our voices blend together into one sound. You can sit on the floor or a chair if you need support, you can also stand, move or lay down if you want.
Please bring a cushion or blanket rolled up to sit on. You might like to bring a shawl or blanket around you (not essential, just cosy). If you require a chair please arrive early to give time to organise this. Bring water to drink.
I look forward to sharing these medicinal mantras with you.
Autumn
17 Nov
6.30pm - 7.30pm
£13 per session
The Country Chicks’ show is set on Chickville Farm and will take you on a journey through life, love and heartache.
The show is a celebration on Country hits throughout the last 8 decades performed in their own unique style with 4-part harmonies, earthy acoustic guitar, heartfelt fiddle, sparkly piano, bright mandolin and of course the rhythm section (drums and bass) who drive the tempo and keep the chicks in check! As well as performing a bunch of Country hits the chicks also have a few of their own songs to enhance this original experience. The show will have you up clapping, singing along, stomping and dancing in your seats! A perfect night out – so grab your cowboy/girl hat and join us at the farm!
The show includes BIG hits such as… Wagon Wheel, Man, I feel like a woman, Ho Hey, Before he cheats, Country roads, Cowboy, take me away, Need you now, My Church, Tennessee Whiskey and Jolene to name a few!
Courtyard Theatre
£15
This is a standing/dancing event with some unallocated seating
Haven’t Stopped Dancing Yet! put on fabulous, feelgood 70s and 80s disco nights for grown-ups at venues across London and the South East - and we’re delighted to welcome them back again after a funk-tastic sell out night here last year.
Haven’t Stopped Dancing Yet! put on fabulous, feelgood 70s and 80s disco nights for grown-ups at venues across London and the South East - and we’re delighted to welcome them back again after a funk-tastic sell out night here last January.
HSDY nights are recommended by everyone from Time Out and The Guardian to Stylist and Radio 4 and they have been described as 'Abba collides with Saturday Night Fever in a glorious mash up'.
DJ Lady G will be on the decks playing all your favourite soul, funk and disco tunes and dancer Andrea Rose will be showing you the moves to everything from Car Wash (complete with shiny rags) and Vogue, to the 1979 Gonzales hit, Haven’t Stopped Dancing Yet, after which HSDY take their name.
If you fancy dressing up (it’s not obligatory, but lots do) there are prizes for the best retro outfits, and free sweets and ice pops too.
In the words of Shalamar, it’s going to be 'a night to remember!'
★ Sass & Sparkle are all set to party with us again and paint your faces with glitter!
10% profits from HSDY nights go to Cancer Research UK
Courtyard Theatre
£18
This is a standing/dancing event with some unallocated seating
Haven't Stopped Dancing Yet! Website
@HSDY
<a target="blank" href="https://twitter.com/nordenfarm">@nordenfarm
Dir: Aki Kaurismäki 2023 | 81 mins
(Finnish with English subtitles)
Master filmmaker Aki Kaurismäki (Le Havre, The Other Side of Hope) returns with his latest deadpan gem Fallen Leaves, a luminous ode to romance and moviegoing.
In modern-day Helsinki, two lonely souls in search of love meet by chance in a local karaoke bar. However, the pair’s path to happiness is beset by numerous obstacles – from lost numbers to mistaken addresses, alcoholism, and a charming stray dog.
Finland’s Best International Feature Film entry to the 96th Academy Awards. Winner of the 2023 Cannes Film Festival Jury Prize.
‘Beguiling and delightful... a film with big heart’ ★★★★ The Guardian
‘A tender and beautifully directed love story’ The New York Times
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
Socially Distanced Screening
The screening on Thur 25 Jan 2pm is socially distanced with a reduced capacity. Face coverings are optional. Food and drink from our Cafe Bar can be taken into the theatre as normal.
225 minutes (including one interval).
Sung in Czech with English subtitles.
This poetic, contemporary new staging of Dvořák’s lyric fairy tale reveals our uneasy relationship with the natural world and humanity’s attempts to own and tame it.
Rusalka, a water spirit, lives with her family in the pure waters of the forest lake. When she falls in love with a Prince, she sacrifices her voice and leaves her home in the hope of finding true love in a new world – a world that does not love her back.
Natalie Abrahami and Ann Yee create a poetic, contemporary new staging of Dvořák’s lyric fairy tale, revealing our uneasy relationship with the natural world and humanity’s attempts to own and tame it. Semyon Bychkov conducts an all-star cast featuring Asmik Grigorian (Jenůfa) in the title role.
Courtyard Theatre
£16
Hugh Dennis and Steve Punt are back on tour for the first time in 10 years.
Older but not really much wiser, they are returning to what they do best; sitting in traffic jams wondering if a different route would have been better, and then in the evening, presenting their new live show.
What have they learned from a decade of following the news for Mock the Week and The Now Show? What wisdom has experience taught them? And have they learned any new jokes? Let’s hope so. They promise they have.
Studio
£14 | £12 conc
Led by Dawn Carroll
In this one day workshop you will sculpt an animal head in clay. What animal you decide just bring along a couple of references for the animal you would like to make. (There will be references available).
Your sculpture will be taken and fired in the kiln and glazed with a clear crackle glaze. Once fired a date will be arranged for you to collect your work from Norden Farm.
Cost includes Clay, glaze and firing.
Please bring an Apron.
11am to 2.30pm
£65.00
Run time tbc |
A new play by James Graham, directed by Rupert Goold.
Joseph Fiennes (The Handmaid’s Tale) plays Gareth Southgate in James Graham’s (Sherwood) gripping examination of nation and game.
The country that gave the world football has since delivered a painful pattern of loss. Why
can’t England’s men win at their own game?
With the worst track record for penalties in the world, Gareth Southgate knows he needs to
open his mind and face up to the years of hurt, to take team and country back to the
promised land.
Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Rupert Goold (Judy) directs this spectacular
new play.
Courtyard Theatre
£16
Star of Live at the Apollo, Late Night Mash and Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Newcomer nominee.
Helen Bauer brings a show all about the women in her life, from her mother to her best friend and that one girl who was mean in 2008.
Oh, and Disney Princesses, obvs.
Co-host of the smash-hit podcast Trusty Hogs and seen on BBC3, Comedy Central, Dave, ITV and more.
'Sticking out for all the right reasons’ ★★★★ Scotsman
‘Utterly brilliant’ ★★★★ List
Studio
£15
Dir: Kirill Serebrennikov 2022 | 142 mins
(Russian with English subtitles)
Historical drama charting the obsessive, one-sided love affair between the revered composer and his devoted wife.
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
On his sixth UK tour, the comedian tries to make sense of the current cultural and political scene with his playfully provocative brand of humour.
Whether it's the dire blandness of the two main parties or the shamelessly shoe-horned right-on messages in adverts and films, Geoff continues to tread in areas much of comedy leaves well alone.
But this time around he also has a mission. As well as casting his everyman eye over what's happening in wider society, Geoff is trying to unpick what's happening with your average bloke. Remember them?
It’s been a rough couple of years for blokes. Toxic masculinity has grabbed all the headlines and ruined it for communal garden geezers, who have been put under the microscope like never before. At first glance, there’s not much to examine – there’s no Bloke 2.0.
Taking up his own bloke’s-eye-view. Geoff can see that despite the social media vortex, your man in the street, average Joe, man on the Clapham Omnibus and your John Smiths just keep plodding on, fuelled by a diet of football, sheds, super-hero films, sporting autobiographies, wearing socks at all times and strategically burying feelings when necessary.
However, under the paraphernalia of manhood and the sometimes basic, even primal, behaviour of dads and lads, Geoff can see that there is something mysterious and definitely non-toxic going on.
A kindly and funny stock-take of both himself and his fellow man, Geoff unlocks some of the more complicated behaviour of your husbands, dads and brothers.
'He has become one of our most refreshingly funny comedians of any stripe' ★★★★ The Times
'He’s a class act with a mature, sharp take on modern politics' Sunday Times
Courtyard Theatre
£17.50
Geoff Norcott's website
@geoffnorcott
@nordenfarm
Led by Berkshire Printmakers
Join Berkshire Printmakers for this beginner's screen printing workshop inspired by illuminated letters and fairground fonts. You will make paper stencil, colour mix translucent colours, and learn how to silkscreen guided by the two experts tutors. By the end of the workshop you will have a print you are proud to put on your wall.
The annual Mozart concert takes place this year on the composer’s exact birthday.
Eleanor Holmes (violin)
William Padfield (horn)
Henry Cash (piano)
Nigel Wilkinson (conductor)
Violin Concerto in D, K.218
Horn Concerto in E flat, K.417
Piano Concerto No.23 in A, K.488
Featuring three delectable concertos.
Henry Cash took 2nd prize at the 2021 Mottram International Piano Competition in Manchester, and gave an exceptional recital at Norden Farm last year. He’ll be playing one of the most joyous of all Mozart’s piano concertos.
William Padfield last appeared with St John’s Chamber Orchestra in 2018. He plays the horn concerto with the ever popular finale.
To open, one of the early violin concertos will be performed by RAM Scholar Eleanor Holmes.
Courtyard Theatre
£20 I Under 18s free
Dir: Wim Wenders 2023 | 93 mins
(German with English subtitles)
Anselm Kiefer is one of the greatest contemporary artists. His past and present are interwoven to diffuse the line between film and painting: a unique cinematic experience directed by Wim Wenders that dives deep into an artist's work and reveals his life path.
£10.50 | £9.50 conc
Special Ticket Offer
£9 | £8 conc tickets when you book for three films at the same time. Offer excludes event cinema screenings. Offer applied in basket.
Sindhu Vee brings her critically-acclaimed, sell-out tour show, Alphabet, to Norden Farm as she warms up for the filming of her next stand up special.
Sindhu has stormed Live at the Apollo (twice) and appeared on all of the top comedy TV shows, including: QI, Mock the Week, Have I Got News For You, The Last Leg and Would I Lie To You?
She also played Mrs Phelps in the smash hit Netflix feature film Matilda, is the star of forthcoming sitcom The Pradeeps of Pittsburgh for Amazon Freevee and her other acting credits include Starstruck and Sex Education.
Suitable for ages 14+ years.
Courtyard Theatre
£18
Led by Helen D Evans
This is part of a series of workshops being run by Helen d Evans which is suitable for all abilities.
During the workshop you will use slab building techniques to make a ceramic Bird Box to adorn your garden and encourage wildlife.
Cost includes clay, use of materials and x 2 firings and application of a clear glaze (optional).
Work will be fired to Earthenware.
Please bring with you: an apron
any Pottery tools you may have
Sketchbook for ideas with ideas
Pens Pencils
The class will run from 11-4pm. A break(s) will be negotiated at the start of the workshop.
After the course.
We will arrange a date after the course for collection of work
Sat 3 Feb
11am - 4pm
£70
Impressionist, television writer, and radio presenter.
Host of hit political podcast ‘The Political Party’ Matt Forde (Spitting Image, Have I Got News For You, The British Scandal, The Last Leg, The Royal Variety Performance) explores the dark comedy horror that is British politics, ahead of the next election. Plus silly voices.
'Our foremost satirical stand-up... whatever your politics, you'll find excellence here' ★★★★ Sunday Times
'Possibly the best political comedy show on the Fringe' ★★★★ Telegraph
'Forde is as gratifyingly sane as comedians come... smart, funny ideas' ★★★★ Times
Courtyard Theatre
£17.50
WEA Maidenhead Branch / Oxford University Department for Continuing Education (OUDCE).
This is a Live Streamed event.
Sandra Smith examines the way historical events and myths have inspired artists.
Both in the ancient world and up to the modern day.
Programme
10.15am History and myth in the art of the ancient world
11.40am History and myth - the art of the Renaissance and Baroque
1.40pm History and myth - the 19th and early 20th Centuries
3pm History and myth - art of today
Sandra Smith has a MA in Art History and has taught for the University of Oxford and WEA.
Please contact Steph Diggon weamhead@gmail.com or Tel: 01628 563676 for reading list and powerpoint presentation.
Live stream from the Studio | £40 per household
WEA website
@WEAadulted
OUDCE website
@OxfordConted
@nordenfarm
A fresh, boundary-pushing take on traditional songs.
The Haar introduces the formidable singing talent of All-Ireland Scór na nÓg winner Molly Donnery combined with three of the most exciting instrumentalists on the folk and traditional music circuit Cormac Byrne (BBC Folk Award / Show of Hands / Seth Lakeman), Adam Summerhayes and Murray Grainger (both of the FATEA award-winning Ciderhouse Rebellion).
This is music that is not afraid to transcend borders - whilst recognisably born of the traditional music that all members have grown up with. The Haar are unapologetic in pushing the boundaries to create a unique and compelling sound.
The origins of the band go back to a chance meeting between Adam, Cormac and Molly at a session at the Craiceann Bodhrán Festival. This resulted in an improvised performance recorded by the shipwreck of the Plassey on the west coast of Ireland. It was to become typical of the unique ‘live reactive composition’ that characterises their music. With the addition of master accordionist Grainger, they entered the studio at the end of 2019 to record their first album.
Their self-titled debut, released in June 2020, is a collection of traditional Irish songs tackling love, poverty and oppression. It was heralded as 'a splendid balance of swirling instrumental magic and beautifully sung narratives' by Folk Radio UK and garnered attention from Mike Harding who described it as 'absolutely amazing'.
The latest album, entitled Where Old Ghosts Meet received multiple rave reviews and has paved the way for outstanding festival appearances at Shrewsbury, Beardy Folk, and at other prestigious stages.
‘A sweeping panorama of Irish traditional music and song’ Songlines
'We need more music like this; spontaneous, alive and affecting' FRUK
‘Very rarely does an album appear unheralded and threaten to make a major impact. The Haar is one of those rarities’ Folking.com
'We need more music like this; spontaneous, alive and affecting, The Haar will take you on a journey and have you appreciating the purest of life’s pleasures. Wonderful stuff' Folk Radio UK
'Molly, Adam, Cormac and Murray have daringly turned this oh-so-familiar repertoire completely on its head and produced what is an inspiring and delightfully bold work of art' Folk Wales
'Full of great traditional music, just sung and played brilliantly' Mike Harding
'The Haar conjuring magic that had long been hidden in plain sight, responding melodically in a mesmerising impromptu arc of artistry' Irish Music Magazine
Courtyard Theatre
£18
A double bill of two shows in one night, from cult multi-award winning musical-comedians Jonny & The Baptists.
A brand new hour of songs and stories about why we are (or are not) happy; and a retrospective of our first decade making riotous, satirical (and silly) “work”.
The Happiness Index
Are you happy? We can help! Five Prime Ministers ago, David Cameron started a happiness index to measure how joyful the people of this nation are. Which is ironic, given what he then did. Anyway, we’ve picked up the baton and now are trying to find out what the hell we should do with it. A new personal and political show about our desire, and the country’s struggle, to just be happy.
Ten Thankless Years
The country's absolute best (but not most popular) musical comedians present our greatest hits, from a decade of being wildly under-appreciated. After a sell-out, five-star run at Edinburgh Fringe 2023, we’ve understandably decided to take this cash-cow on the road.
'An hour of glorious chaos. A must-see' ★★★★★ Sunday Post
'A proper belly-laugh show' ★★★★★ British Theatre Guide
'Wickedly funny' ★★★★ The Times
'Excellent, irresistible and winningly random' ★★★★ The Guardian
'You'll mainly leave feeling warm and fuzzy.... note perfect' ★★★★ Metro
Suitable for ages 14+ (guidance only)
Studio
£16
Led by Jo Hall
Chagall’s flowers are the ultimate symbols of love that float and fly just like his figures, and even when the flowers are anchored in a vase, a bride and groom or couple in a loving embrace are nearby. This springtime why not conjure up a romantic bouquet of your own or make your own version of one of Chagall’s works. References supplied or bring your own. Please bring your own pastels or water-based media and equipment as in the information below.
Please bring pastels or acrylic or water colour paints.
All artists water-based media (watercolour, gouache or acrylic) or pastels
Drawing board, clips or tape to attach support, paper towel, pencil, sketchbook for notes/ working out composition.
Some paper will be available from the tutor at cost.
Artists using water-based media will need a block to angle the board, water pots, palette, brushes, watercolour paper or if using acrylic, mixed media or acrylic paper, pencil.
Pastel artists will need pastels, a table easel, putty eraser, spray fixative for use outside only. Charcoal and a few pastel pencils may be useful, pastel paper.
The award-winning Dark Side Of The Wall celebrate their heroes in well over 2 hours of spectacular live music and visual effects.
This amazing 8-piece band perform music from the legendary Pink Floyd’s classic and extensive back catalogue, featuring tracks such as Comfortably Numb, Money, Wish You Were Here, Shine On You Crazy Diamond and Another Brick In The Wall to name just a few… with unexpected ‘surprises’ thrown in along the way. This band clearly love what they do and that ‘fun’ factor is always a huge part of their shows - not to be missed!
Courtyard Theatre
£18
Which dinosaur had teeth as big as a banana? Which dinosaur weighed the same as 10,000 cats? And what could a chicken possibly be doing in The Great Big Dinosaur Show?!
Join poet Simon Mole and musician Gecko for a family show full of poems, raps and songs about all your favourite prehistoric protagonists (and some you haven’t heard of yet!). Expect some spine-tinglingly funny scares and get your groove on to some Jurassic Classics!
The show is inspired by Simon Mole’s 4th book; A First Book of Dinosaurs, illustrated by Matt Hunt, published by Walker Books in September 2023.
Simon Mole is an acclaimed children’s poet (and sleep deprived dad) who has shared stages with Michael Rosen, Kae Tempest and John Hegley. He is a National Poetry Day ambassador, with over ten years of experience using poetry with children and families. Former poet in residence for the National Literacy Trust, Simon works in schools and libraries across the country and overseas. The videos on his YouTube channel are used by hundreds of thousands of children and teachers across the world each year and have been featured on the BBC. A First Book of Dinosaurs will be followed by A First Book of Bugs in 2025. His other books are picture books Kites, I Love My Bike (shortlisted for The Sunday Times Children’s Sports Book of the Year) and I Love My Cat, illustrated by Sam Usher. Simon lives in Berkshire. Simon’s favourite dinosaur is Coelophysis.
Gecko is a Singer, Storyteller and Musician. His playful lyrics cover the big things in life; think iPhones, libraries and Guanabana fruit juice to name but a few. With more than 4 million views and 1 million likes on TikTok in the past year, Gecko’s previous appearances include Glastonbury, Latitude, Bestival, BBC Scotland, BBC London and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. He has toured the UK, Europe & New Zealand. Gecko’s music has also been featured on BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 6 Music, Radio X and BBC Introducing. He has twice been awarded Album of the Year by The Morning Star newspaper. In 2020, Gecko released his second album, Climbing Frame, crowd funded by his audience in just 48 hours. He appeared on BAFTA winning TV show Life & Rhymes hosted by Benjamin Zephaniah and has shared bills with the likes of Tim Minchin, Eddie Izzard, Ed Sheeran and Billy Bragg. Gecko’s favourite dinosaur is Deinonychus.
Suitable for ages 4 - 11 years.
Running Time: 50 mins approx, no interval.
Studio
£12 I £10 under 16s
Family and Friends (4 people) £40
Simon Mole's website
@simonmole
Gecko's website
@gecko
@nordenfarm
195 minutes (including two intervals).
Torn between her desire of a life of splendour and riches and her devotion to her true love Des Grieux, the feckless and capricious Manon pays the ultimate price.
This adaptation of Abbé Prévost’s novel embodies Kenneth MacMillan at his best, his acute insight into human psychology and his mastery of narrative choreography finding full expression in the impassioned duets of the central couple, visceral and urgent in their desire. The heroine’s struggle to escape poverty make Manon one of the most dramatic and devastating of ballets, emphasized by Nicholas Georgiadis’ evocative designs that reflect the juxtaposition between Manon’s impoverished origins and the lavish world she longs to inhabit. The 2023/24 Season celebrates the centenary of Nicholas Georgiadis.
Courtyard Theatre
£16
All aboard for a delightful train journey through India.
Experience the sights, sounds and smells evoked through South Asian dance, music and theatre; and meet some amazing characters along the way.
choogh choogh is a family-friendly show inspired by the joy for travelling through India on a train. It combines classical Indian dance with contemporary movement, theatre and play, sharing with audiences a world full of colour, invention and flow. The journey starts with the audience getting a special choogh choogh ticket.
Suitable for ages 2 - 5 years.
Studio
£12 | £10 under 16s
Family and Friends (4 people) £40
Led by Fiona Dowling
Join Fiona from Jewellery Moves & learn how to make your own jewellery with pieces of sea glass. At this workshop you will learn how to saw, solder, file, hammer, hand-stamp and finish your own sterling silver ring & pendant. You will leave at the end of the day with either a bangle or a pendant or both if you have time.
About Jewellery Moves:
Taught by Fiona Dowling, a graduate of the Royal College of Art, Jewellery Moves workshops aim to teach traditional craftsmanship, jewellery skills and techniques in small groups with a relaxed atmosphere.
Thur 15 Feb
11am - 4pm
£80
The cost of the silver is not included in the course fees. The approximate cost of these materials is £30/£40 and payable to the tutor on the day (ideally in cash).
Please make sure that hair is tied back, please wear closed shoes and bring your glasses if you wear them.
Suitable for 18 + years
New stand up show from the award-winning comedian.
Politics for idiots, feminism for lads, love stories for louts and self-care for those who don’t care.
Jacob has been seen on Sky1's The Russell Howard Hour, BBC3's Ladhood, ITV2's The Stand Up Sketch Show and ITVX's Secrets of the Comedy Circuit. He's also had over 4 million views online.
'Intelligent & important, his self-aware set sees him explore themes of class and identity in the modern world expertly' ★★★★ Sunday Post
'A down-to-earth talent who's got it in spades' ★★★★ The List
Studio
£14.50
Led by Mick McNicholas
Learn about the stages of portraiture, drawing with charcoal from a live model.
Suitable for all levels of experience.
Suitable for 18+ years
Autumn
Sat 7 Oct
Spring
17 Feb & 6 Apr
11am – 4pm
£34
The authentic and approved sound of classic 70’s Quo.
In answer to overwhelming support, former members of John Coghlan’s Quo - Mick Hughes, Rick Chase, Pete Mace and Russ Chadd have reformed under the name of Quo Connections.
JCQ, featuring Ex-Status Quo drummer John Coghlan had been in existence for twenty-five years in various forms, and their final gig with John Coghlan on the 24th of September 2022 was quite aptly played at Butlin’s in Minehead where the Quo story first began.
Playing many of Quo’s hits plus some incredible album tracks, Quo Connection are excited to bring you their high-octane show!
'Close to the real thing. A must see!' John Coghlan (Original member / drummer Status Quo)
'The band that really know their Quo, and continue to wave the mighty Q flag!' Bob Young (Ex-Status Quo)
'Quo Connection are the best there is!' Alan G Parker (Director of Hello Quo)
'The best Quo tribute out there!' Jackie Lynton (John Coghlan’s Diesel)
Courtyard Theatre
£18
Led by Jo Hall
Explore the work of five artists and their very different approaches to landscape painting. Over the five sessions we’ll explore works by Samuel Palmer, André Derain, Georgia O’Keeffe, Richard Cartwright, and David Hockney. Starting in week 1 with Samuel Palmer, you will be invited to make a composition in the spirit of the artist or to make your own version of one Palmer’s works. Please bring your own materials; any water-based media or pastel would be suitable. For full information see below.
Please bring;
All artists; water-based media (watercolour, gouache or acrylic) or pastels
Drawing board, clips or tape to attach support, paper towel, pencil, sketchbook for notes/ working out composition.
Artists using water-based media will need a block to angle the board, water pots, palette, brushes, watercolour or mixed media paper, pencil.
Pastel artists will need a table easel, putty eraser, spray fixative for use outside only, charcoal and a few pastel pencils may be useful.
Filskit Fiddles Fae Orkney (“Filskit, adj: frisky, high-spirited, exuberant; addicted to immoderate hilarity”).
Fara fuse the talents of three fine Orcadian fiddlers and vocalists - Jeana Leslie, Catriona Price and Kristan Harvey. Alongside stand-out Highland pianist and newest member Rory Matheson.
Fara have firmly secured their foothold at the forefront of the Scottish folk scene since taking 2014’s Orkney Folk Festival by storm.
Their unique mix of spell-binding vocals, intricately woven fiddle harmonies and energetic closers, combined with an obvious kinship born in childhood, delight and entertain audiences wherever they go.
The band were shortlisted in 2015’s Scots Trad Music Awards for Up and Coming Act of the Year. They performed a triumphant set at the 2017 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards at the Albert Hall as Horizon Award nominees. They went on to win a German Critics’ Choice Award and a Live Act of the Year nomination at 2019’s Scots Trad Music Awards. They continue to tour internationally, with sell-out performances at festivals across Europe, Australia and North America.
Scots Trad Music Awards Best Live Act Nominees 2022 & 2019
Belhaven Bursary Nominees 2019
BBC Radio 2 Horizon Award Nominees 2017
German Critics’ Choice Award Winners 2019
'Torch-bearers of a freshly reinvigorated tradition... one of the most exciting Scottish folk discoveries in recent years AllMusic
'Gifted, imaginative, complex and engaging... a sound that just exudes joy' FRUK
'Bring contemporary fiddle music to new heights... enthralling vocal arrangements' Scotsman
'From delicate, elegant and beautiful to full and rich and fiery... spellbinding' Fatea
Studio
£17.50
Adapted by Simon Stephens, after Anton Checkhov.
Andrew Scott (Fleabag) brings multiple characters to life in Simon Stephens (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time) radical new version of Chekhov's Uncle Vanya.
Hopes, dreams and regrets are thrust into sharp focus in this one-man adaptation which explores the complexities of human emotions.
Filmed live during its sold-out run in London's West End.
Courtyard Theatre
£16
Following a critically acclaimed sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival 2023- award winning writer, comedian and actor Rob Auton brings his latest show ‘The Rob Auton Show’ to Norden Farm.
Rob has written ten hit Edinburgh Festival Fringe comedy/theatre/spoken-word shows on specific themes including the colour yellow in The Yellow Show sleep in The Sleep Show and hair in The Hair Show. In his most autonbiographical show to date, Rob turns the pen on himself to explore the memories and feelings that create his life on a daily basis.
Praise for The Rob Auton Show:
'This is a life affirming high water mark of what can be achieved in stand-up' British Comedy Guide
'You'll laugh a lot, you'll smile a lot and, mark my words, you'll want to see him again. One of my favourite shows this year' Bruce Dessau, Beyond The Joke ★★★★★
'Remarkably insightful and uplifting. From the very start, Rob Auton holds the audience in the palm of his hand… a rarity to find a comedy show that will leave you feeling this rejuvenated and optimistic' Meta, EdFringe Review ★★★★★
'Rob Auton is the most thoughtful comedian I have ever seen. It is a rarity to find a comedy show that will leave you feeling this rejuvenated and optimistic' ★★★★★
Coco Cottam, Ed Fringe Review
'Whimsical wonder… certainly gets you in a proper mood to enjoy the human experience, both during and after the show' Sean McCarthy, The Comic’s Comic ★★★★
'Both hysterically funny and quite moving… a master wordsmith at the top of his game' David Cox, DarkChat ★★★★★
'Beautifully crafted; just like Auton’s comedy… His act is well honed and his ease is infectious… Watching, you’d struggle not be swept up in the charm of it all'
Isobel Lewis, The Independent ★★★★
'Like a sunbeam from heaven in human form, Auton is a constant delight' Mark Wareham, The Mail On Sunday ★★★★
'Auton is effortlessly funny in a wise and timeless kind of way' ★★★★ The List
'The Rob Auton Show is unlike any other stand-up comedy show in existence… A very personal performance that mixes comedy with spoken word poetry in an expression of bittersweet nostalgia… It's unlikely that there would be a dry eye left in the auditorium after hearing Rob Auton perform' Katerina Partolina Schwartz, Broadway Baby ★★★★
Studio
£15
Led by Helen D Evans
This is part of a series of Courses and workshops led by Helen d Evans
The course is for people with all abilities. If you have previous experience of using pinch pots or coiling, you are encouraged to self initiate your own project based on the technique if you wish.
The intention is to spend 2 weeks learning and experimenting with pinch pots / coiling. The final week will be spent decorating your work with underglazes or glazes.
Your work will then be fired off-site and then ready to collect from Norden Farm.
The price includes: Clay, use of tools, Underglazes, a selection glazes and 2 x firing of your work.
All work will be fired to Earthenware.
You may want to bring with you:
Sketchbook for ideas / with ideas
Pens / Pencils
A cloth to wipe your hands on
An apron
Any clay tools you may have.
After the course.
I will notify you regarding the collection of your work which usually takes between 4-6 weeks
Fri 23 Feb - 8 Mar (3 weeks)
11am - 1pm
£80 for a 3 week course
Christian Garrick – violin, darbuka Eddie Hession – accordion Kelly Cantlon – double bass Adrian Zolotuhin – guitar, saz, balalaika, domra
In 2009 Christian Garrick established the refreshingly unconventional and snappily attired Budapest Café Orchestra. The intention to present a broad range of music from all over the world in the most entertaining and fun way. One of BCO's prime directives is to take the music seriously but not so much themselves. Part of the secret formula of the BCO's show presentation is performing all the music from memory and, combined their trademark wit and charm, audiences leave tingling with warmth and delight.
BCO are one of the very busiest acoustic groups for me today playing an average of 60 to 70 shows per annum. Since their inception they have recorded one album every year and in January 2023 made their 14th Pavane (and the whole shebang-bang). BCO are frequent guests to BBC Radio 3’s In Tune and on Martin’s Handley’s weekend Breakfast programmes.
Each member of the orchestra is a freelance musician in their own right. Both Eddie and Adrian teach prolifically for budding school-age musicians. Christian is a professor of jazz violin at Guildhall School of Music, Royal Academy of Music, and Royal College of Music in London.
Adrian is curator and director of the Imperial Balalaika Orchestra of Overton (IBOO) who sometimes appear with BCO at special gala concerts. Both Eddie and Christian are busy session recording the sessions and have each played on a multitude of movies. Eddie even had an on-screen role in the Nick Cage film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin!
From a musical family with jazz and classical learnings Christian Garrick is musical director of BCO and his influences run far and wide. He first discovered Hungarian and Romanian folk and gypsy music listening to Sandor Lakatos and Taraf du Haidouks. Christian’s arrangements for BCO of Rachmaninoff, Tchaikovsky and Greig - the so called squeezebox concertos - are rooted in BCO folklore. His arrangements of traditional Gaelic tunes on the album The Gaelic Chronicles was met with critical acclaim with the likes of Cerys Matthews and Mark Radcliffe both championing the disc on their respective radio shows. Christian is influenced by a range of fiddlers from Grappelli to Stuff Smith to Indian virtuosos L Shankar and L Subramaniam. Nigel Kennedy, a sometimes collaborator with Christian on stage, described him as 'one of my favourite
violinists'. Christian’s own unique hybrid playing style, sheer emotional passion and extraordinary improvisational abilities thrills audiences everywhere.
'Not so much a band name as a whole genre of its own, Budapest Café Orchestra embraces an encyclopaedia of music and mischief.' SCOTSMAN
'Your music is really great.' Helena Bonham Carter
'The music is magic in their hands.' Sean Rafferty BBC Radio 3
'Absolutely acoustically electrifying!' Time Out
'Back by popular demand, the fiery vivacity and awe-inspiring musicianship of the finest purveyors of Eastern European gypsy music this side of a Lada scrap heap will leave you with a grin on your face and rhythm in your feet…' TIMES
Courtyard Theatre
£20
The Budapest Café Orchestra website
@budapestcafeorchestra
@nordenfarm
Led by Berkshire Printmakers
This workshop is suitable for beginners, during the workshop you will learn about the art of tie dye. We will look at how different cultures from Africa, India and Japan developed a variety of techniques combine with fabric dyes to create surface patterns. You will try your hand at knotting, tying, pleating and stitching to create your own unique scarf to take home. You will have the chance to practice on sample fabric before embarking on your own scarf.
Dress for mess and bring a pair of rubber gloves and a carrier bag to take your scarf home.
Dom Joly has been off travelling the globe again. This time, he’s been looking into some of the strangest and weirdest conspiracy theories in existence.
'Just because your paranoid doesn’t mean you’re not being followed!'
Now, he’s now set to embark on a rather unique theatre tour, where Dom will be providing a hilarious, fascinating, and slightly anarchic guide to the wacky world of conspiracies.
1. Is the earth flat?
2. Does Finland exist?
3. Did JFK commit suicide?
4. Are Q Anon mentally ill?
5. Is Bill Gates using vaccines to take control of your mind?
6. Is Denver Airport a massive panic room for the Illuminati?
7. Are UFO’s piloted by lizards?
In the spirt of fairness, Dom will also be inviting a well-known and highly respected conspiracy theorist, Dr Julian Northcote, to take the stage and defend the alternate view.
Due to the extremely controversial views aired in the show, security will be at an optimum and audiences are warned that angry demonstrations are very likely – or is that just another conspiracy?!
Courtyard Theatre
£25
Led by Guy de Ferrer
Do you want to write about your life, the people you have known, the places you have seen?
These five sessions will help you write your memoirs/autobiography. We will look at how to convincingly capture people, places and stories from your life.
Each week a homework will be set and discussed the following week. You will also receive tutor feedback by email.
All levels are welcome.
27 Feb - 26 Mar (5 weeks)
7pm - 9pm
£100
Online course
Led by Dawn Carroll
In this one day workshop you will make a sculpture of a figure in a long gown or cloak. The gown can be decorated with patterns or textures, your figure may wear a hat or headdress. Let your imagination run wild. (References will be available).
Slips will be available to decorate your piece.
At the end of the session your sculpture will be taken and fired in the kiln and a date will be arranged for you to collect your work.
All tools are provided just bring along an apron.
Cost includes clay and firings.
11 am to 3.30 pm
£75.00
Tom Houghton sets out on his biggest and most hilarious show yet.
Having now taken to the international stage with tours of Europe and America, the man who asked us Do you ski? returns to the UK to ponder a new question.
In an age where tradition and progress are wrestling against each other; what are the parts of ourselves that need shedding and what is worth holding on to?
Star of Netflix The Circle and host of Very British Problems: Live and Bad Manors podcast.
'Clever, passionate and soulful' ★★★★★ The New European
'A twisted view of the world' ★★★★★ The Sunday Express
'Get your tickets today. Tomorrow may well be too late. A Star is Born' ★★★★★ One 4 Review
'Everyone’s cup of tea… Brilliant, bright and insightful' ★★★★★ UK Cabaret
'This unexpected tour de force warrants a 21-gun salute' ★★★★ The Daily Telegraph
'A crafty idiot' ★★★★ The Daily Mail
'Now that’s class' ★★★★ Fringe Guru
Courtyard Theatre
£16.50
Led by Helen D Evans
This is part of a series of workshops being run by Helen d Evans which is suitable for all abilities.
During the workshop you will use hand building techniques to make a pair of egg cups and saucers.
Cost includes clay, use of materials and x 2 firings and application of a clear glaze.
Work will be fired to Earthenware.
Please bring with you: an apron
any Pottery tools you may have
Sketchbook for ideas / with ideas
Pens / Pencils
The class will run from 1-4pm. A break(s) will be negotiated at the start of the workshop.
After the course.
We will arrange a date after the course for collection of work
Sat 2 Mar
1pm - 4pm
£50
The UK’s No.1 Level 42 Tribute return to Norden Farm to bring Level 42’s music live.
Never 42 is the expression of their combined passion for the musicianship of Mark King and Mike Lindup and the upbeat jazz funk sound that is Level 42 with an uncanny accuracy and has earned them the reputation as the UK’s leading Level 42 Tribute Band.
Expect to hear the favourites including Livin it Up (The Sun Goes Down), Lessons in Love, Something About You, Starchild, The Chinese Way, Hot Water and many more!
Courtyard Theatre
£20
WEA Maidenhead Branch / Oxford University Department for Continuing Education (OUDCE)
This is a Live Streamed event.
Highly respected jazz double bass player Steve Kershaw looks at the origins of jazz music, provides strategies for listening to it, and surveys the main styles of the genre in a way that is accessible to all.
Programme
10.15. New Orleans and the Birth of Jazz
11.40. How to Listen to Jazz
13.40. Dixieland to Swing
15.00. Be-Bop and beyond
Please contact Steph Diggon weamhead@gmail.com or Tel: 01628 563676 for reading list and powerpoint presentation.
Live stream from the Studio | £40 per household
Find Out More about this course here.=
WEA website
@WEAadulted
OUDCE website
@OxfordConted
@nordenfarm
Elegant, passionate, beautiful, and dynamic jazz sounds from an innovative ensemble of high-class composers and improvisers.
Between them these scintillating musicians - Nick Vintskevich (sax), Leonid Vintskevich (piano), Steve Kershaw (bass), and Noah Stone (drums) - have taken their distinctive and original music to many of the most prestigious venues and festivals across the world, from the North Sea Jazz Festival, Holland, to the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, USA, to the Havana Jazz Festival, Cuba. Expect an evening of exhilarating swing, deep grooves, and exuberant emotion.
‘Shameless passion … astounding imaginings … exhilarating music’ (Jazzviews)
‘Sheer sonic seductiveness’ (The Vortex).
Kershaw/Vintskevich - Steve Kershaw
Studio
£15, £10 Concessions
£10 for attendees of ‘A Love Supreme: The History and Appreciation of Jazz’
A fitting tribute to all women that simply rock!
Join these powerhouse vocalists, backed by a dynamic band for two hours of hits. Featuring songs from the world's greatest female rock legends such as Heart, Pat Benatar, Joan Jett, Lita Ford, Stevie Nicks, Blondie, Chrissie Hynde, Pink and Cher.
WHY? A showstopping night of entertainment that will leave you cheering for more!
Courtyard Theatre
£22
Led by Jo Hall
Rousseau never left France and his jungle paintings were inspired by his visits to botanical gardens and zoos, and also by postcards and book illustrations to which he applied his vivid imagination. After looking at some of his jungle paintings you are invited to create your own jungle scene or to make your version of a work by Rousseau. Reference supplied or bring your own. Please bring your own materials and equipment; any water-based media would be suitable.
Please Bring water-based media (watercolour, gouache or acrylic paints)
Drawing board, a block to angle the board or table easel, clips or tape to attach support, paper towel, pencil, sketchbook for notes/ working out composition, water pots, palette, brushes, watercolour or mixed media paper, pencil
Some paper will be available from the tutor at cost.
Led by Dawn Carroll
In this workshop you will learn how create a sculptural clay seed head for the garden. The shape will be created using a former and slab building techniques. Lines and petals will then be added. After that, the poppy can be coloured with oxides.
Your sculptures will then be taken and fired and a date will be arranged for you to collect your piece from Norden Farm.
Bring along an apron.
Costs includes clay and firings.
11am - 3pm
£65
Led by Fiona Dowling
Join Fiona from Jewellery Moves & learn how to make your own set of bangles which fit you perfectly. At this workshop you will learn how to saw, solder, file, hammer, hand-stamp and finish your own sterling silver bangles and a cuff. You will also learn how to make your own bezel setting and set a cabochon (selected from a range of colours provided) within your silver cuff. You will leave at the end of the day with two bangles and a cuff (which can also be hand stamped with a personal message).
Thur 21 Mar
11am - 4pm
£80
The cost of the silver is not included in the course fees. The approximate cost of these materials is £40/£50 and payable to the tutor on the day (ideally in cash).
Please make sure that hair is tied back, please wear closed shoes and bring your glasses if you wear them.
Suitable for 18+ years
About Jewellery Moves:
Taught by Fiona Dowling, a graduate of the Royal College of Art, Jewellery Moves workshops aim to teach traditional craftsmanship, jewellery skills and techniques in small groups with a relaxed atmosphere.
Join the Funny Mummy for this hilarious one women comedy show, all about the bonkers world of parenting.
‘Mummy, I love your boobies...they’re so long!’
Join the Funny Mummy for this hilarious one women comedy show, all about the bonkers world of parenting. From pregnancy to playdates, WhatsApp groups to school runs – if you’re a parent, and you need a laugh, then this show is for you!
Alyssa Kyria, aka The Funny Mummy, is the co-creator of Bring Your Own Baby Comedy and performs comedy to audiences across the country. Her comedy, music videos and sketches have gone viral on Netmums and Facebook and she has starred on BBC, ITV and SKY.
'The perfect concoction of parenting and comedy, Alyssa is onto something great’ ★★★★ Voicemag
‘Hysterical!’ Netmums
‘Sensational!’ The Mirror
‘The perfect mum's night out’ Redbridge Drama Centre
Studio
£16
Led by Berkshire Printmakers
Notan is a Japanese art term that literally means "light, dark harmony". Artists use "notan" to explore the play and placement of light and dark elements as they are positioned next to each other in creative compositions.
This fun, creative workshop explores silkscreen printing using Notan compositional techniques. We will start off with simple paper cut stencils combined with plain screens and monochrome inks to explore light and dark composition elements. In the second half of the workshop we will progress to combining these elements with patterned screens and mid-tones to create harmonious and well balanced prints worthy in a frame.
This workshop is suitable for beginners and those with some screen printing, all paper, water based inks and our huge library of plain and patterned screens are provided
Multi award winning comedian Ray Bradshaw is forever being told you look just like my mate wherever he goes.
It’s been happening for years and he’s worried about it. Either someone is cloning generic bald men or, there’s a ginger bearded bald man out there who’s doing a bad job of stalking Ray. In his brand-new show Doppelginger, Ray is going to use the latest in genetic research (the internet) to try and put an end to this once and for all. He’s on a quest to find the person who looks most like him.
Doppelginger is a funny heartwarming comedy show about a silly search for a man with an orange beard who’s follicly challenged. If you have a bald, ginger bearded friend in their 30s (true at time of writing), then bring them along. You never know – they could be The One.
Ray’s last show Deaf Com One was a huge success and sold out theatres across the world. The show was all about growing up with deaf parents and as a result every show of Doppelginger will have a BSL interpreter. Ray has previously supported John Bishop on his UK arena tour after John described him as one of the best comedians in the country.
'Bradshaw is raucously funny… captivating, funny and sharply executed' ★★★★★ BroadwayBaby.com
'funny and fascinating… one in six of us will lose our sense of hearing. Deaf Comedy Fam proves it doesn’t mean you have to lose your sense of humour' ★★★★ The Scotsman
'This years most groundbreaking show' ★★★★ Short.com
'I grinned from ear to ear for the entire hour' ★★★★ Voice Magazine
'Has a clear comedy gift' ★★★★ Edinburgh Evening News
Studio
£16.50
Join author and comedian Marc Burrows on a journey through the life and work of Sir Terry Pratchett.
Based on his Locus award winning biography and officially endorsed by the author’s estate. Explore Pratchett's life, influences, impact, wit and wisdom, from his days as a school librarian to his time as a trainee journalist to his untimely death from Alzheimer's in 2015. Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Discworld and discover the joy, anger, and delicious cock ‘n’ bull stories of one of the greatest storytellers of all time.
Warning: includes bad puns and unnecessary footnotes.
Studio
£15
A collective of wonderful musicians who share a love for Argentine tango.
Tango Calor was set up by bandoneon player Mirek Salmon (BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Welsh National Opera, RSC) in 2016.
For this concert Mirek will be joined by guitar virtuoso Daryl Kellie described by D’Addario Strings as ‘Truly stunning’ and sensational vocalist Indira Roman.
Together they will take you on a journey from the classic tango of 1930s Buenos Aires to the beloved music of Astor Piazzolla and may even include some surprise versions of more contemporary hits. Expect romance, passion and fireworks.
'A great punching combo that combines tradition with Nuevo flavours. One of the best tango trios you will hear in the UK without a doubt' Eduardo Bozzo, Tango Alchemy
'As professional teachers and hosts, if you want dancers to be out of their seats and enjoy great music, Tango Calor really does that' Joanna & James Whitehead, Viva la dance
Studio
£16 | £14 conc
Enemies. Balconies. Kissing... sausage rolls!?
Three idiots perform Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, using only a box of tatty wigs, a worn floral dress, and a burst airbed they found by the bins.
Described as ‘like Horrible Histories but funnier’ Primary Times, the beloved Rubbish Shakespeare Company returns with an anarchic and joyous family friendly treat.
Featuring clowning, slapstick and knowingly mischievous storytelling, this ‘side-splittingly funny’ The List production is the perfect introduction to Shakespeare - or even theatre itself!
Suitable for all ages.
‘A genius way to bring the Bard to fresh audiences’ ★★★★★ West End Best Friend
‘Anything but rubbish! This is stripped back theatre at its very finest' ★★★★★ At The Theatre
‘It’s pure rubbish… and you’ll love every minute’ ★★★★★ Wee Review
‘A high class piece of entertainment, whatever your age’ Fringe Review
Studio
£12 I £10 under 16s
Family and Friends (4 people) £40
The Rubbish Shakespeare Company website
@RubbishShakes
@nordenfarm
I can see a box, no wait, Is it a house?
There’s a noise coming from inside. Could there be something inside?
Suddenly a flap opens. Is that a man living in a box?
Hermit is a silly, funny and intriguing show about a quiet, tall man living in a teeny tiny house.
The owner feels happy and proud of his little home and loves to hide away from the world there but can we win his trust so he will invite us inside?
Suitable for ages 2 - 6 years.
Studio
£12 | £10 under 16s
Family and Friends (4 people) £40
Buenos Klezmer perform uplifting and heart-warming authentic Jewish folk music of the Eastern European shtetl and Sephardic world.
Vocalist Maya Levy weaves a fascinating tale of these long ago worlds while clarinettist Livia Frankish wails, guitarist Eyal Pik serenades and cellist Mayda Narvey straddles the support of stand up bass and the interweaving melodies. With consistently sold-out performances, this is a foot-stomping, heart-warming band.
'Great gig - brilliant music especially Buenos Klezmer'
'A truly magical evening'
Audience reviews from Tsitsit Fringe Festival at Toulouse Lautrec, London
Buenos Klezmer debuted in 2019 at The Jazz Room, London. The quartet met while playing for Shabbat Shira (a participatory musical Friday night song service to mark the start of the Jewish Sabbath at West London Synagogue). Being all of Jewish background, both Sephardi and Ashkenazi, they decided to form an ensemble to play specifically secular Jewish songs and Klezmer instrumental music. They play Yiddish & Ladino songs and Klezmer, spanning the breadth of Jewish secular music and have performed to sell out audiences at venues including several returns to The Jazz Room, JW3, Green Note Camden and OSO Barnes.
Maya Levy - Soprano
Maya Levy was born in New York City. She is a professional singer, songwriter, actor and theatre deviser/ writer, with a Bachelor of Music from the prestigious Oberlin Conservatory, Ohio, (in piano and voice), a Bachelor of Arts in English and Theatre from Oberlin College as well as an MA from The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in Acting and Devised Theatre.
In addition to her work as a Cantorial Soloist at West London Synagogue, her focus of the last 15 years has been on composing pieces of music theatre, song writing and working as a professional performer. Some musical plays include The Adventures of Nellie Bly, about the 19th century reporter and daredevil Nellie Bly (funded by Arts Council England), and The Damsels Most Daring Present The Bravery of Miss Anne and Other Tales of Splendorous Adventures, a piece of comedic, musical, storytelling theatre. Other work ranges from recording NPC voices for Tom Clancy’s The Division 2 (video game) at Pinewood Studios to performing as a guest soloist with The London International Orchestra. Maya’s grandparents were Sephardi Jews from Bulgaria who spoke Ladino (Judeo Espagnol) at home. She grew up around Yiddish speakers in New York City and loves the traditions of both the Sephardi and Ashkenazi world.
Mayda Narvey - Cello
After some years performing and touring with the National Arts Centre Orchestra of Canada, Mayda Narvey relocated to the UK where she established Ismena Collective, a group of musicians and wordsmiths who create performances that integrate words with music. She has composed and arranged for Ismena and performed with them in venues across London and beyond, including King’s Place, St. Martin in the Fields, The Forge Camden, and many others. Over the years she has enjoyed playing her cello in many contexts including solo and chamber recitals, spoken word events, cabarets in the West End of London, and of course, as the string member of Buenos Klezmer. The daughter of Russian Jewish immigrants to Canada, Mayda grew up in a Yiddish-speaking home.
'What a breath of artistic fresh air! I was completely bowled over by the standard of musicianship, the elegance of the programming and the relaxed joyously friendly atmosphere.' Audience reviews, Ismena Collective
Eyal Pik -Guitar
A multi-talented guitarist and singer-songwriter with an MA in commercial music production, Eyal was trained by and has worked with top artists and producers such as Jon Kelly (Paul McCartney, Kate Bush), Sister Bliss (Faithless), Aviv Geffen (Blackfield), ELK (Rita, Mosaic Project) and many more. Being an active professional musician since the age of 14, he has played countless recording sessions, radio and television shows in many countries as well as numerous shows in top venues including the Royal Albert Hall
(playing for members of the Royal family) and City Hall (for the Mayor of London), Camden Assembly, and Tel Aviv’s famous Barby Club. Originally from Tel Aviv (8th generation born in Israel), Eyal comes from an Ashkenazi-Jewish family with origins in Poland, Austria and Jerusalem, growing up surrounded by Jewish tradition, hearing songs and stories in Yiddish, Polish, German and Hebrew.
Livia Frankish - Clarinet
Livia Frankish gained her Bachelor’s Degree from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance under the tutelage of Michael White. Having performed with a number of orchestras and chamber groups, she found her love of Klezmer whilst studying and discovering her identity, spirituality and connection with Judaism. She was fortunate enough to study with Merlin Shepherd, one of the world's leading exponents of traditional klezmer clarinet style and has performed with internationally celebrated cantor, Shulem Lemmer. As well as performing with Buenos Klezmer and other chamber groups, Livia teaches class music in a busy East London secondary school.
Studio
£16
Led by Helen D Evans
This is part of a series of Courses and workshops led by Helen d Evans
The 5 week course is for people with all abilities.
Whether you want to come and give Pottery a try or if you have some experience of working with clay, you may want to use the time to work on your own projects based on the Slab Building technique.
The intention is to try a different technique each week for the first three weeks.
The fourth week - time for experimentation.
The final week will be spent glazing. This session will be slightly longer to give you time to finesse your pieces. (3hrs)
Your work will then be fired off-site and then ready to collect from Norden Farm.
The price includes: Clay, use of tools, Underglazes, a selection glazes and 2 x firing of your work.
All work will be fired to Earthenware.
You may want to bring with you:
Sketchbook for ideas / with ideas
Pens / Pencils
A cloth to wipe your hands on
An apron
Any clay tools you may have.
After the course.
I will notify you regarding the collection of your work which usually takes between 4-6 weeks.
Fri 5 Apr - Fri 3 May (5 weeks)
11am - 1pm (11am - 2pm on Fri 3 May)
£120 for a 5 week course
Produced and Hosted by Singer-guitarist Paul Wheeler (TV Director, 'Live at the Apollo') with Sophie Langham (West-End actress-singer and formerly Eastenders).
A heart-warming, musical homage to the great American singer-songwriters of the late 60’s and early 70’s.
Featuring beautiful timeless songs from James Taylor, Carole King, Simon & Garfunkel, Joni Mitchell, Don Mclean, Bread, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, America, The Byrds, Mamas and Papas and Carly Simon.
An excellent 5-piece band will bring you classic songs from this golden era including You’ve got a Friend, (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, American Pie, Fire and Rain, ‘Big Yellow Taxi, River, Starry Starry Night, Horse with no Name, Mrs Robinson, Make it with you, Feelin’ Groovy, California Dreaming, You’re So Vain, Woodstock and many more !
The show has a relaxed acoustic style, matching the spirit of this era, when many of these artists were neighbours in the Laurel Canyon suburb of L.A.
With an intimate nostalgic narrative including images from that time, the show is sometimes poignant, sometimes amusing, always delightful.
Studio
£16
Presented by Faceplant Theatre.
Will Lily conquer her fears? Will she conquer her fright? Will she conquer the ghouls in the dead of the night?
In the Dead of the Night brings to life a little girl's imagination as she conjures fantastical monsters whilst hearing strange sounds in the middle of the night. Once she decides that she must overcome her fears, she sets out to tackle this mysterious noisy creature head on. She discovers it has been her scared young brother making the noises, whom she comforts as they fall asleep together. It's a tale about being brave and choosing to face your fears, and eventually about being a loving sibling, two messages that audiences can relate to.
Arthur McBain's witty, spooky, and heartfelt debut children's book has sold both internationally in Australia, Korea and Turkey, and in the UK as one of Waterstones core children's book range. Faceplant Theatre are incredibly excited to be adapting McBain's story for its first ever outing as a theatrical production.
Studio
£12 I £10 under 16s
Family and Friends (4 people) £40
They take to the road again in 2024 for select dates making up their only tour this year.
Spiers & Boden first rocketed onto the music scene in 2001 quickly winning a clutch of BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. They went on to form and front the extraordinarily successful folk big band Bellowhead, which sold out The Royal Albert Hall several times.
They provides the theme tune for Radio 4’s The Archers and were recently heard on the soundtrack of BBC 1’s ‘Beyond Paradise’.
Described by The Guardian as ‘the finest instrumental duo on the traditional scene’.
The much-loved duo reformed in 2021 after a seven-year hiatus, arriving with a brand new album ‘Fallow Ground’ which went on to reach number 3 in September ‘21’s Official Folk Albums Chart and was a Mojo magazine top 10 folk album of 2021.
‘It’s all exquisitely played – the pair are still the dons.’ The Observer
Courtyard Theatre
£21
Legends of Motown is a high energy tribute show jam packed with all of Motown's biggest hits.
With stunning vocals and amazing live band Legends of Motown celebrates the music of the iconic and timeless Motown era. Undoubtedly the golden era of music, the show pays tribute to the legendary artists that appeared on the Motown label at that time.
Get ready to be wowed with a song list that won’t fail to have you up and out of your seats and dancing in the aisles. Make it a night to remember with the music authentic to the Motown label from artists such as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Smokey Robinson, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Temptations, Jackie Wilson and many more!
Courtyard Theatre
£22
Led by Jo Hall
Max Ernst is best known for his surreal paintings but he also produced a fantastical series of frottages published as his “Histoire Naturelle”, where rubbings from different surfaces were combined to depict beasts, trees, eyes and even a person. These frottages were made by placing paper over the surface and taking an impression by rubbing with a pencil or graphite stick. During the workshop we will make make imagined scenes or animals etc. by rubbing a variety of surfaces. Suitable paper for frottage will be available at cost as well as a variety of surfaces for use on the day but feel free to bring your own selection. Reference supplied or bring your own. Please bring your own pencils and equipment as detailed below plus your imagination.
Please Bring any surfaces you would like to frottage (e.g. lace, doyley, Meccano plate, corrugated cardboard, leaf, coarse sand paper, netting). Graphite pencils HB or B, and if you have one and want to work large a graphite block would be useful.
Strong but thinnish paper; Daler Rowney Marker Paper 70gsm A3 which works well and will be supplied at cost. Light-weight cartridge papers are suitable and copier paper is OK for first experiments.
Drawing board.
'The most feel-good show in town' ★★★★ (The Daily Mail) has spread nostalgia and laughter throughout the UK and has the seal of approval from Victoria’s very own school chums and colleagues.
Featuring the star of BBC1’s All Together Now, Paulus The Cabaret Geek 'King of Cabaret' (The Stage) with Michael Roulston (Fascinating Aïda) on piano, it is an evening of pure joy filled with Victoria’s best-loved songs, including the iconic Ballad of Barry and Freda (Let’s Do It) and the classic It Would Never Have Worked.
This show is for fans of Victoria and for those yet to discover her, to come together and relish her breathtaking wizardry with words.
In telling Victoria’s story, Paulus unfolds his own. A relatable story of a 1970s childhood and what it really means to find your tribe.
So, pair your stilettos with an oven glove, zip up your cocktail slacks and get booking!
'Vic would have loved this' Sue Devaney, dinnerladies
'We loved it!' Fascinating Aïda
'Poignancy and heart' ★★★★ The Scotsman
Courtyard Theatre
£18
Led by Fiona Dowling
At this workshop you will learn how to saw, solder, file, hammer, hand-stamp and finish your own sterling silver jewellery.
Everyone will leave with one pair of hoops or dangly earrings and a pair of studs. No previous experience is necessary. You will be shown options of designs and then helped to tweak them to suit your own personal style.
About Jewellery Moves:
Taught by Fiona Dowling, a graduate of the Royal College of Art, Jewellery Moves workshops aim to teach traditional craftsmanship, jewellery skills and techniques in small groups with a relaxed atmosphere.
The approximate cost of these materials is £40/£50 and payable to the tutor on the day (card or cash).
18 Apr
11am - 4pm
Martin Turner and his band return to the stage to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Wishbone Ash’s seminal double live album Live Dates.
Wishbone Ash was formed by West Country musicians Martin Turner and Steve
Upton. They were intent on creating a musical sound that was rich in texture and melody. Martin Turner envisaged the band’s innovative harmony-guitar hallmark. Guitarists Ted Turner and Andy Powell were recruited via a now legendary Melody Maker advert.
Wishbone Ash forged a unique musical identity that would produce some of rock music's best loved works. Their name is synonymous with high quality guitar-driven melodic rock music.
Martin Turner continues to delight audiences with performances of the band’s best loved works. His current line up features guitarists Danny Willson and Misha Nikolic, and drummer Sonny Flint.
They capture the original Wishbone Ash line-up at its very best during the peak of its commercial success. Expect epic tracks such as The King Will Come, Warrior, Throw Down the Sword and Phoenix.
Courtyard Theatre
£22
Martin Turner ex Wishbone Ash website
@MartinTurnerMusic
@nordenfarm
A brand new stand-up show about passion, pace and purpose from the critically acclaimed star of BBC’s QI, Live at the Apollo and C4’s Travel Man.
Jess’ son’s joined a cult AND her cat’s learnt to talk but despite all that she’s fine, actually. In fact she’s hurtling faster and hustling harder than ever for the things that she wants and needs.
Her last show Wench played a sold-out Edinburgh Fringe run and UK tour and is available now as a special. Her previous show Hench was nominated for Best Show at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards and won Best Show at the Chortle Awards where Jess also won Best Act. It’s available to stream now on Amazon Prime.
Jess is a regular co-host of The Guilty Feminist podcast, host and creator of her own podcast about eating, Hoovering, and star and writer of BBC Radio 4’s Sturdy Girl
Club. Jess has also appeared in the award-winning sitcom Motherland and most recently hugely-acclaimed feature film Scrapper which won the Grand Jury prize at the Sundance festival.
She’s also been on all your favourite panel shows from Celebrity Pointless to House of Games.
‘A loud, lively and vital voice’ ★★★★ Evening Standard
‘She wears her smarts on her sleeve’ ★★★★ Guardian
‘She finds a new fiercely funny strain of comedy that’s her own’ ★★★★ Times
Presented by Plosive Live in association with Ebdon Management
Courtyard Theatre
£17, £15 conc
Daliso did his first show Feed This Black Man 20 years ago. The jokes were mediocre, there was a rap about poverty in the middle (which was as offensive as you might imagine) and the big finale involved a sandwich on stage.
20 years later, Daliso has done the Royal Variety Performance, written and performed four series of Citizen of Nowhere on BBC Radio 4, been a Britain's Got Talent finalist, toured nationwide and abroad... all sorts of things the 22-year-old Chaponda would never have imagined possible.
So, Feed This Black Man Again is a do-over, as the now widely-loved comic revisits the themes of that ancient debut show with the considerably enhanced comic talents that two decades' experience brings you.
Along the way he'll examine the huge differences between the way you think life will be at twenty, and the reality. Probably no sandwich at the end this time.
'Full of sharp one-liners and well crafted gags...a real talent' ★★★★ Metro
'Gets laughs out of topics other comedians shun' The Guardian
'Brilliantly bold, thoroughly engaging and provocative' Wee Review
Studio
£16
Led by Helen D Evans
This is part of a series of workshops being run by Helen d Evans which is suitable for all abilities.
During the workshop you will use hand building techniques to make an orb shape, which
will be the basis for your hanging planter.
Cost includes clay, use of materials and x 2 firings and application of a clear glaze.
Work will be fired to Earthenware.
Please bring with you: an apron
any Pottery tools you may have
Sketchbook for ideas with ideas
Pens Pencils
The class will run from 11-4pm. A break(s) will be negotiated at the start of the workshop.
After the course.
We will arrange a date after the course for collection of work
Sat 27 Apr
11am - 4pm
£70
The worse the political career, the more lucrative the subsequent entertainment opportunities.
Matt Hancock may have slaughtered millions but now he's making a killing. So can Rosie Holt's viral hit MP follow 'politainers' Dorries, Farage and Rees-Mogg and leap from the pages of Hansard to Heat?
Following a hugely successful Edinburgh Fringe season, Rosie takes this brand-new show on the road, to tightrope the thin line between politics and entertainment.
Rosie is an acclaimed comedian, actor and satirist. Her popular videos on social media have achieved more than 6.5 million views.
She is the host of podcast Noncensored, and has been seen / heard on Sky Max's The Russell Howard Hour, and BBC Radio 4’s The News Quiz, DM’s Are Open, and Ashley Blaker 6.5 Children, among many other credits.
'The Thick of It levels of writing and performance applied to a very current flavour of political bullsh*t' The Times
'Beautifully observed and performed' The Guardian
‘A pinpoint portrayal of the personae manifesting our national psyche’ ★★★★ The Observer
'A character comedy treat' ★★★★ Time Out
Courtyard Theatre
£20
Balkan Music from Danube Regions with Drops of Ottoman.
This performance features Eastern European and Balkan music from the Danube regions with influences of Ottoman culture. Starting at the source of the Danube in Donaueschingen, Germany, which is only 200 kilometers away from Gundula's place of origin, the musical journey of the evening will take us through Vienna and Budapest, all the way to the Black Sea in Ukraine and Romania. We will focus on pieces with hints of Ottoman influence, and the Blue Danube waltz will not be performed.
Band leader Gundula has been exploring the music of the Gypsy Romany people in Eastern European and Balkan regions for more than 20 years. During her frequent fieldwork travels, she collects pieces and delves into their musical and ethnographical backgrounds. From these traditional tunes, Gundula crafts musical arrangements that preserve the archaic elements and the ancient beauty of the traditional music.
The focus of her research for 2022/2023 has been music from the Danube regions with influences from the Ottoman era, as well as more recent Turkish influences. One can find traces of Ottoman elements in terms of modes, rhythmic and melodic structure, and ornamentation. More recent Turkish influences are also present, with Balkan Romany musicians learning from the famous Turkish Romany virtuosos who are masters of improvisation. Their distinct style of playing can be heard in both traditional music and in modern Turbofolk and Chalga music genres.
There was also the sunken island of Adah Kaleh, located near Orșova, Romania. It was almost entirely populated by Turkish people. It was submerged in 1970 when the Danube dam was built. Before that, the Turkish population had emigrated, but apart from some Baklava and rose oil, certain musical influences were left behind.
About the Magic Violin Trio
In a story told through music, The Magic Violin Trio transport the listener through countries and cultures performing Eastern European and Balkan folk and Gypsy music. Influenced by musical traditions of old, the trio of strings and singer bring a fresh and charismatic feel to their performances.
The Magic Violin Trio comprises of Gundula on lead vocals and violin, Jeremy Halliwell on guitar, and Fraser Perry on cello and backing vocals. They evolved in 2020 from the string players of Gundula’s 5-piece Balkan ensemble Tatcho Drom, when Corona restrictions meant only three players were allowed in the rehearsal space.
When arranging pieces for the trio, Gundula takes the inspiration by old Balkan music traditions and their string line-ups, comprising of instruments like the tambura, oud and balalaika. Her aim is to write fresh arrangements that preserve the reminiscent of age-old practice and its magic.
The Magic Violin Trio isn’t bound by genre; they bring their deft approach to a breadth of musical styles. Anything goes that contains magic and their repertoire consists of not only Balkan/Eastern European but also pieces from Silk Road regions and Ottoman times, Nordic folk, Klezmer and old-fashioned jazz tunes.
The Magic Violin Trio have had the pleasure of playing many different kinds of venue; from concerts at large conference centres and churches to more modest studio theatres, art cafes and dinner receptions, their unique, intimate sound is perfectly suited to any sophisticated setting. Amongst their roster of current performance projects is a collaboration with Storyteller Sally Pomme Clayton, and From Weddings and Funerals, a performance repertoire that features a roller-coaster of joy, exuberance, melancholy and transition.
Studio
£16
BRITISH PODCAST AWARDS 2023: BEST COMEDY (NOMINEE) FOR ‘BANG ON IT’ FUNNY WOMEN AWARDS 2019: WINNER
Star of Live At The Apollo, Laura Smyth’s brand-new show explores all aspects of modern life. She has fun mugging off all the madness of parenting, childhood, school, marriage, social media, work, and chasing her dreams.
In her own inimitable style, she gets to the truth of the human experience, treading the line between bluntness and warmth throughout.
Ultimately, she is asking how ‘living your best life’ is actually achieved – heads up: it don’t involve Instagram! Fresh from tour support for Jack Whitehall and Michelle de Swarte, this is her at her uncensored and ridiculous best.
'One of the best acts I’ve seen in a long long time' Romesh Ranganathan
'A proper star in the making' Jack Whitehall
'A comic powerhouse' Mo Gilligan
'Laura is a brilliant comedian whipsmart, warm and very very funny' Roisin Conaty
'A force of nature' Chortle
'Naturally funny' Jo Brand
Studio
£15
Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Emmanuel Sonubi presents a whistle stop tour through the jobs that have led him to become one of the hottest stand-ups on the circuit in the brand-new show, Curriculum Vitae.
Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Emmanuel Sonubi presents a whistle stop tour through the jobs that have led him to become one of the hottest stand-ups on the circuit in the brand-new show, Curriculum Vitae.
Emmanuel will take the audience on a hilarious and sometimes poignant journey that explores the professions that he’s had prior to becoming a comedian, discussing how those experiences helped shape his comedic voice. From working in IT to the doors of London's nightlife whilst building up an impressive list of musical theatre credits.
As see on, QI (BBC), Alan Davies As Yet Untitled (Dave), Rhod Gilberts Growing Pains (Comedy Central), Apprentice 'You're Fired' (BBC), Pointless Celebrities (BBC) and headlining Live at the Apollo (BBC).
Emmanuel said today, "I'm thrilled to be back on tour in the UK with 'Curriculum Vitae'. Last year's tour was an amazing experience and selling out most of the shows was incredible! Writing this new show has been a lot more fun than writing an actual CV and, I get to be honest".
London based Emmanuel Sonubi's career in comedy started only a few years ago and quickly grew from strength to strength earning himself a reputation as "one to watch out for". A regular favourite on the comedy circuit, he is one of the most sought-after acts working today. Emmanuel’s credits continue to grow as does his popularity.
Full Clean Driving License
Hobbies include rugby, long walks, the gym and musical theatre.
References on request
'One of my favourite discoveries of the year, was Emmanuel Sonubi. Hilarious, warm and unique. If you don't see him now for a tenner, you won't be able to smugly tell your mates about it when they're paying £50 for a crap seat at the O2' Jason Manford
'The bloke has got funny bones' Romesh Ranganathan
'Side-splittingly funny. Roaring laughs' Independent
'Big laughs, engaging tales, you’re seduced by the easy authority of his storytelling' The Guardian
Courtyard Theatre
£16.50 (conc) £14.50
The Ultimate Tribute to Jeff Lynne and the Electric Light Orchestra.
ELO Again are back with their stunning Re-Discovery Tour celebrating the truly universal music of Jeff Lynne and the Electric Light Orchestra. Now in their 10th year, the band really give you a dramatic taste of what a legendary ELO concert would have been like back in their heyday, the whole experience is professionally re-enacted with a great sound reproduction, light show and visual effects.
They perform all the big hits – Mr Blue Sky, Livin' Thing, Sweet Talkin' Woman, Shine a Little Love, Confusion, Last Train to London, Roll Over Beethoven, Wild West Hero, Don't Bring Me Down, The Diary of Horace Wimp, Telephone Line, Turn to Stone plus many more.
As the UK’s No.1 tribute show, ELO Again provide you with the spectacular live effect of ELO’s famous orchestrations, soaring strings and vocals. Come along and relive the age of Glam Rock as ELO Again pay tribute to the beautifully crafted songs of Jeff Lynne. You will revel in ELO’s unique symphonic rock style and hear some of the most unforgettable classic rock and pop songs of our generation. The timeless Mr Blue Sky returns, so Roll Over Beethoven - Rock 'n Roll Is King.
Courtyard Theatre
£18
The man with the golden larynx - and greatest living all-round entertainer - is BACK!
It's been years and years of therapy, pills, personal growth and being a living legend. The nation’s favourite Uncle and International Treasure-in-Waiting returns to the road to mesmerise a new generation of thrill seekers in his all new, brand new, box fresh show.
Come and see your Golden Emperor shake his ass and give you the only thing you’ve ever wanted… the best damn night of your fragile lives.
Since starting stand-up comedy in 2007, Nick quickly gained attention from across the
industry for his unique, powerful and above all hilarious blend of one-liners, stories, poems and songs. His previous shows enjoyed sell-out runs at Edinburgh Fringe, and he has been twice nominated for the Edinburgh Comedy Awards.
He has released two successful albums, played lead roles in hit TV sitcoms Uncle and Loaded, fronted two of his own TV shows Dave's Eat Your Heart Out and BBC's Nick Helm’s Heavy Entertainment. He was nominated for a BAFTA for short film Elephant, which he co-wrote, directed and starred in.
As also seen on BBC's Live at the Apollo, Channel 4's 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Sky's The Reluctant Landlord and many more.
‘Genuinely exciting’ ★★★★★ Telegraph
‘Terrific’ ★★★★ Times
‘A true comedy daredevil’ ★★★★ Time Out
Courtyard Theatre
£16.50 | £15 conc
Described in Las Vegas as one of the world's finest vocal tributes to Neil Diamond.
Described in Las Vegas as one of the world's finest vocal tributes to Neil Diamond, Bob Drury has been astounding audiences with his vocal likeness throughout the UK, and the US for the American Neil Diamond Fan Club in Nashville and Las Vegas.
The show tracks Neil’s journey from struggling songwriter to international mega-star with music from a career spanning five decades. All the favourites are included such as Cracklin' Rosie, America, Love on the Rocks, Play Me, Hello Again, Forever in Blue Jeans, Beautiful Noise, Red Red Wine and of course Sweet Caroline. Bob's duet with Harriet on the Diamond/Streisand classic 'You Don't Bring Me Flowers' is one of the best versions you'll ever hear.
Courtyard Theatre
£22
Presented by Long Nose Puppets.
When Doris and Delilah wake up to find something strange and sparkly has fallen from the sky, they are inspired to put on the world’s greatest magic show! But how do you make real magic happen? What ingredients do you need and who can help them?
Along the way they encounter some fabulous characters; a transformative moth, a band of musical frogs, an artistic spider and a sassy glow-worm who all help to create their dream.
Will the conjuring trick work and will anything ever come out of the hat?
A story about friendship and the true magic of nature. Full to the brim with lively songs by the talented Tom Gray of Gomez. A feast for the senses and a spectacular theatre experience for everyone!
'It’s a visually exciting delight for young children and contains enough gentle humour to keep adults entertained for an hour too. The Long Nose Puppet team are relentlessly talented, bringing stories to life with their unique and charming puppets and their delightful songs with life affirming lyrics' Katy B, Broadway Baby
'For most of our children, the show would have been their first experience of live performance and we couldn’t have asked for a better first step into that world' Jim Brannan, Head teacher of Boundstone School
Studio
£12 I £10 under 16s
Family and Friends (4 people) £40
Long Nose Puppets website
@nordenfarm
The comedian is back with a brand-new show about how his usually stress-free house share took a turn and his housemate tried to get him arrested five times.
Bilal Zafar has been nominated for Best Newcomer at the Edinburgh Fringe and is winner of New Act of the Year 2016.
He has appeared on BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Radio 4 and built up his own online audience on Twitch as he plays an unhinged football manager in an ongoing improvised series.
'A natural storyteller with a very likeable stage presence' ★★★★★ Shortcom.co.uk
'Endearing, relaxed and naturally funny… hilarious' ★★★★ EdFestMag.com
Studio
£15
The America’s Got Talent winner is back with a brand-new comedy show for 2024.
Join Paul and an array of creations including Sam, Albert, Baby, Roger the bodyguard and an urban fox. He takes to the road with a show which promises that ‘when you are not laughing, you will simply be left in awe’ (Three Weeks).
As seen on ITV's Lost Voice Guy’s Christmas Comedy Club, BBC1's Michael McIntyre’s Big Show, ITV'sThe Royal Variety Performance and ITV's Tonight At The London Palladium
'A ventriloquist at the top of his game, Zerdin is in a league of his own… a show so polished it shines' ★★★★★ The Scotsman
'Technically immaculate, it’s what he does with his slick talent that really sets in apart'
The Guardian
'A ventriloquist for the South Park generation' The Stage
'Funny and sharp-tongued' The Observer
Suitable for ages 14+ years.
Courtyard Theatre
£20
The Ultimate Rock Tribute Show!
As featured in the BBC TV documentary The Joy of the Guitar Riff, Purple Zeppelin are proud to pay tribute to the two greatest Rock Bands of all time, Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin together on the same bill for the very first time!
Whether you were lucky enough to have seen the original bands live or not, Purple Zeppelin will take you back to the magic, the excitement and the sheer raw energy generated by those incredible musicians. In a full on two and a half hour show complete with costume changes for each band, you’ll hear more than 30 classic songs – basically the best bits of all time!
Purple Zeppelin are four talented and versatile musicians with decades of playing between them, comprising thousands of sessions and gigs both in the UK and overseas, selling out venues up and down the country. The band are genuine admirers of both Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin and with the accent firmly on entertainment, this show promises to be a night not to be missed, complete with Ritchie Blackmore’s on stage antics, Jimmy Page’s twin neck Guitar and Theremin, and a very special Violin Bow Solo! Come and experience the excitement of Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin in one mesmerising show!
Courtyard Theatre
£21
Kieshia and her fantastic million dollar band bring an incredible tribute to the late, great, Whitney Houston.
Her number one show is shared up and down the country, and brings Whitney’s greatest hits. From I Wanna Dance with Somebody and So Emotional to Greatest Love of All and I Will Always Love You.
Described as a stunning impersonator of the legendary Whitney Houston…Kieshia is up there with the very best!
Join Kieshia for an evening of fun, laughter and nostalgia as I’m Every Whitney takes you on an unmissable ride to remember the Queen of the Divas.
Courtyard Theatre
£18
Get ready for two hours of hits and classics by The Who.
Including Won't Get Fooled Again, My Generation, Pinball Wizard, Who Are You, Substitute, Can't Explain, The Seeker and I Can See For Miles.
Performed by Johnny Warman's Magic Bus. The band features a line up of top musicians who have performed with Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend and John Entwistle from the band itself.
They have worked also worked with the likes of David Bowie, Bruce Springsteen, Foo Fighters and The Small Faces.
'Well worth checking these guys out. Not to be missed' The Who
Courtyard Theatre
£20
The Total Who Show's website
@magicbusbanduk
@nordenfarm
Some printed publicity has the incorrect start time - this show starts at 8pm
Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Cream.
Paying tribute to these legends of rock are Voodoo Room. A stunning power trio featuring some of the UK’s finest musicians who perform an incredible show in the true spirit of these legendary superstars. No wigs, no gimmicks - simply great music played by great musicians! Featuring classics such as Hey Joe, Sunshine Of Your Love, Purple Haze and Layla.
Members of Voodoo Room have recorded and toured with Stevie Winwood, Massive Attack, Arthur Brown, Fish, Thunder and many other high profile artists. With standing ovations the norm, the word on the street is Voodoo Room are not to be missed!
‘STUNNING!’ Time Out
Courtyard Theatre
£20
Newly married, Schalk feels older, wiser and much more mature (possibly), but all he wants is to stay "hip with the youth". Can he do it? Can he Keep Up?
As seen on Netflix and Comedy Central and fresh from supporting Trevor Noah on his arena tour.
'Fast-rising talent' Guardian
'Definitely one to watch' Evening Standard
'His joke telling is superb... pure and simple stand up, expertly performed' Chortle
Suitable for ages 15+ years.
Studio
£15