SpArC Theatre

Live Theatre: Jack Frost and the Search for Winter
2022-11-21 11:00 - 14:30 (Europe/London) | Sparc Theatre, Bishop's Castle, United Kingdom
Two chances to see this Fab show
11am Show
1.30pm Show
When temperatures drop and cold snaps come, that means only one thing: Jack Frost is here!
Jack Frost is a mischievous young boy with a frozen touch. His magic transforms the landscape and brings the colours of autumn and the chill of cold winter. He freezes the orange and red leaves, and covers the trees and ground with a glistening blanket of ice and snow.
But this year when winter comes around the snow begins to melt and along with it Jack’s extraordinary magic fades. With his powers lost he becomes just an ordinary boy.
In this wintery tale, Jack and his new found friend, search for winter and attempt to restore Jack’s special gift. Circling the globe they meet characters who share their own special shimmering seasonal winter magic, but will Jack’s magic return?
Join tutti frutti for this enchanting new play by poet and playwright Joseph Coelho with important environmental themes, a touch of wintery fun and original live music.
60mins Age 3+
For Discounts for Groups and schools contact liz@sparctheatre.co.uk

Live Theatre: The Syrian Baker from Farnham Maltings
2022-11-10 19:30 - 20:40 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
The Syrian Baker
Age range: 12+
With 5% of the world’s population on the move at any one time, desperate to get away from trouble, this is a story about two people deciding to go home despite the state of their country.
Told with affection, irrepressible humour and bread – because without bread nothing happens – the Syrian Baker is about knowing where you belong, how small actions can make the biggest difference and about how much we all have in common.
Written by Kevin Dyer and from the company that brought you Brilliance and The Iranian Feast, this is an evening in the company of friends with stories, freshly made bread, Syrian coffee and Mamoull like the ones from caffé plaza in Homs old town.
Winner of ‘Play of the Year’ at the Writers Guild of Great Britain Awards 2022
The Syrian Baker is the latest production from Farnham Maltings, and the first since the beginning of the pandemic. Written by Kevin Dyer and directed by Gavin Stride,

BLAST STORY TELLING: Kestrel Morton presents The Mountain of the Sun
2022-11-08 18:30 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
Kestrel Morton presents The Mountain of the Sun
BLAST! at the Under Ground – Bishops Castle ( side Gate Public Hall)
Tuesday 8th November 2022 6.30pm
An Amazing Young Storyteller!
A three-faced god and a golden feather, a whispering serpent and a monk’s pilgrimage, a sheep stealer, a hooligan and a change of heart, all watched over by old Granny Chaos. Kestrel Morton weaves a stitch-tongued spell of language, enchanting all who hear it to follow its fantastical thread; into creation myths and wonder tales; through parables and into true stories, dancing on the sharp knife edge between warnings and wonder in the wild world beyond the world.
“Kestrel is a dynamic and passionate performer with a unique vision. A must-see!” -Daniel Morden
Like a magpie’s nest full of shiny trinkets this story is expertly and subtly woven from a wide blend of sources; from traditional folk tales to anecdotes heard at parties; from daydreams in old ruins to visions in a dancer’s steps; this patchwork of narratives is sewn together with a needle of language so fine that the finished fabric appears whole and completely stitch-less.
“For each action there is an equal and opposite reaction.”

Live Music : Clun Valley Jazz: Matt Ridley Quintet & Fergus McCredie’s Trio
2022-10-22 20:00 - 2022-11-26 20:00 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
For details and to book your reservations Text 07768 504322 or Email clunvalleyjazz@gmail.com
Saturday 22nd October Matt Ridley Quintet
Following on from two critically acclaimed albums on the Whirlwind Recordings label, accomplished bassist and composer Matt Ridley strikes out again with a new quintet featuring some rising stars of the UK jazz scene. Ridley is joined by his go-to drummer of 8 years, George Hart, longtime collaborator Ant Law, and the recent pairing of Tom Hewson on piano and the young Alex Hitchcock on saxophones. This gig heralds the arrival of a new clutch of compositions, which bear the Ridley hallmark memorable themes, pulsating grooves and plenty of space for improvisation.
Saturday 26th November 2022 the Fergus McCredie Trio
The 2022 Mercury Prize Nominations include Fergus McCredie’s Trio for his phenomenal album ‘Forrest Floor’.
FERGUS McCREADIE piano
DAVID BOWDEN bass
STEPHEN HENDERSON drums
“One can feel the love they have for their country’s natural beauty, for the waterfalls, the lakes, the mountains, and what it does to a human being who dwells there.” STEP TEMPEST
“The most beautiful music that can be heard in jazz at the moment” WrittenInMusic
£23.00 – clunvalleyjazz@gmail.com or Text 07768 504322 for booking

Live Cool Latin Tea Dance with The Little Rhythm Band
2022-09-25 15:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
This event is now being merged with the Incredible Rhythm Band event on Saturday 24th September 8pm. The Latin Dance teacher will still be there to teach us some moves! Hope to see you there.
Afternoon Tea Dance- with The Little Rhythm Band and Sapa Dance School Latin dance Teacher
An afternoon of Cool latin Music and Salsa-
Opportunity to learn some Latin Dance. To a live Band -Everyone Welcome-join in or just watch and enjoy the music and Dancing.

LIVE MUSIC: The Incredible Rhythm Band
2022-09-24 20:00 - 22:00 (Europe/London) | Sparc Theatre, Bishop's Castle, United Kingdom
The Incredible Rhythm Band are back Live- Their sensational sold out performance in February has brought them back by popular demand.
We are now merging the Tea Dance event scheduled for Sun 25 Sept to create one joyous evening to lift spirits and get hips moving!
The Sapa Dance teacher Marcia Sarcina will be there to show us some moves on the night!
The Sounds of Santana, Tito Puente & other funky Latin grooves-
Featuring, Sticky Wicket, Peta Piper, (percussion Charlie ‘Carlos’ Mason (guitar), Mike Green bass, and Ted Bunting (Sax & Flute) ,Danny McCormack Keys with Harry Weston-Cotteral on percussion Dancing definitely permitted.
Lets spend a night with friends on and off the stage and have a great time
Tickets £15 Adults £8 children
More information coming soon!

Summer Street Dance
2022-08-01 09:30 - 16:00 UTC | Sparc Theatre, Brampton Rd, Bishops Castle, SY9 5AQ
It is back ! High energy, fun, creative street dance session with experienced dance teacher Anna Belyavin. Session for different age groups
BOOK PLACE FOR 4-6 Yrs 9.45am-11.15am SESSION
BOOK PLACE FOR 7-11 Yrs 2pm-4.pm SESSION
The session will include fun movement games, a taught routine and creative activities to create a fun routine to popular music.
The perfect chance to dance, express yourself and get creative.
Anna has taught dance and movement sessions across the county for over 10 years working with children, young people and adults in a variety of settings.
Wear comfortable clothing you can move in and soft shoes or trainers and water

Workshop: Mini Beast Mayhem!
2022-07-29 10:30 - 12:30 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
Mini Beast Mayhem Workshop
Friday 29th July 10.30-12.30-
Join us at SpArC, for fun Mini Beast crafty making workshop with Liz Still -Bee Windsocks, Crazy Beetles and more.Explore with BC Going Wild experts the real mini beasts in the Bug Hotel at Sparc.
Children under 7 accompanied by an adult. FREE
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty

Samba Drumming Workshop
2022-07-28 14:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
Come and play exciting Brazilian rhythms on samba drums in this unusual one-off
workshop! Guaranteed to be fun, loud, creative and hands on!
Explore simple samba rhythms with calls and responses, a groove and some
breaks. Have Fun feel confident with drums and in creating an, exciting
piece of samba music.
”I was impressed and delighted with Peta’s capacity to easily make a group of
people of different ages and with no musical experience to play a complex Brazilian
rhythm as a group in less than one hour… Brilliant!” Alex Magni Top Brazilian percussionist
Chances to create a rhythm or breaks with some ideas about
improvisation and creative tools to support their ideas to become successful
Potential opportunity for young musicians:
“Peta has the ability to inspire, enthuse and encourage young people. She has
excellent subject knowledge and her workshops are tailored to the students’ needs
and interests. Peta was observed by Ofsted who regarded the lesson to be
outstanding” Elizabeth Jones, Head of music
“Working with such a wide variety of people requires unusual levels of flexibility and
an extensive repertoire. Peta can create new approaches and innovative ideas to
suit any occasion and a seemingly infinite range of peoples’ individual needs; she
has an extraordinarily sensitive grasp of unexpected requirements and challenging
situations” Rob Strawson, Director Music pool Hereford

Live Music :KUSH TRIO
2022-06-30 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
KUSH fiddle, guitar and tabla trio featuring Ruth Angell, Sid Peacock and Mendi Singh. All three
have worked with each other on many projects over the past 20 years. This trio builds on that
relationship and presents a fusion of Celtic folk and North Indian musics.
Sid Peacock is leader of Surge Orchestra and has collaborated with musicians from around the world.
Mohinder Singh is an internationally recognised tabla player having performed with Take That and collaborated with Peter Gabriel, Anand Shankar and Darius Brubeck.
Ruth Angell is a renowned fiddler/violinist and singer songwriter who has performed an collaborated with Ashley Hutchings, Andrea Begley, Birdy and Rufus Wainwright.

LIVE: New Art Club - Cupid's Revenge
2022-05-05 19:30 - 20:45 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
In today’s disposable world where love is used to sell us everything from plug-in cars to yoghurt…where did real love go?
The latest dance theatre comedy show by groundbreaking performance company,

★★★★Cupid’s Revenge revels in the hilariously oppressive details of everyday life before distilling them into a breathtakingly moving gut punch. Daily Express

A fine double act, with as much endearingly mischievous dexterity as their handling of verbal humour. The Times ★★★★

New Art Club, is a joyful, physical and verbal out burst against the forces that masquerade as love. Mythical love that drives the creation of the universe and everything in it.
Romantic love. Love between friends. Love between you and the people you love.
It is funny,sad and reflective.It is not a story but it holds lots of stories inside it. In that way it is like you. It has a flickering heart that has crashed to earth.
With New Art Club’s dexterous physicality this impossibly big topic is broken open and brought vividly to life.Cupid’s Revenge is an attempt to bring audiences together in a defiant act of unity and love.
“Cupid’s Revenge is a celebration, an affirmation: of love, of live, of people, of who we are and what makes us”. Seeing Dance
“Physical comedy with brains, I laughed ‘til my face hurt.” – The Observer on Feel About Your Body
Duration 1hr
Rated 12+ Mild swearing

Commissioned by Pavilion Dance South West and supported by Cambridge Junction, CIRID, De Montford University and using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England
Made for audiences 12+ ( mild swearing)

Live Music Fundraiser: Sticky Wicket & The Freedom Band
2022-04-09 20:00 - 22:00 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
You just know this will be a great night out !
“creating music to make you smile, tap your feet or even dance.”
We welcome some good friends to bring the music and raise some funds for Ukrainian Refugees.
All Musicians and sound technician are giving their time for free so we can raise as much money to help the people of Ukraine
More information about the where the money will be going
Join Sticky Wicket, Percussion/ vocals, Peta Piper Percussion/ vocals, Geoff Grimes keys/vocals ,Ted Bunting saxophones/flute Geoff Ockenden on bass.
Featuring music from Louis Jordan to Van Morrison , and new tracks to their repertoire for this special concert-
We get it all Blues jazz, swing, rock ‘n’ roll and beyond from this group of seasoned professionals with a fascinating mix of experience.
As individuals they have worked with a large list of well known musicians and performers creating music to make you smile, tap your feet or even dance.
A ‘good fun’ band.
Don’t forget to drop in during the day on Saturday 2-5.30pm
‘Whack it Smack it’ have a go all afternoon will be there for Families making musicial instruments from recycled stuff!
Plant Stall, Cake Stall, and Raffle with £100 first prize +more
Music all Afternoon
2.00: Bishops Castle Young Musician:
Nomad, Lilith Pearson, Will Christie & Modified Youth
2.45: Traditional : Bouzatina, Rapsquillion, Tony Harris
3.30 : Jazz – The Dixie Dragons
16.15 -Bishops Castle Open Mic
Brian Carrington, The Tin Soldiers, Dunk Burns
17.00 -The Men From Off
All Musicians and sound technician are giving their time for free so we can raise as much money to help the people of Ukraine
More information about the where the money will be going
More information about the organisations the money will go to Outline of BC Community Response

LIVE: MARTIN CARTHY
2022-03-31 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
More tickets released

IF SOLD OUT EMAIL liz@sparctheatre.co.uk to go on the waiting list.
It’s Incredible to be able to welcome Martin Carthy to SpArC!
Lifetime Achievement Award – BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2014
For more than 50 years Martin Carthy has been one of folk music’s greatest innovators, one of its best loved, most enthusiastic and, at times, most quietly controversial of figures. His skill, stage presence and natural charm have won him many admirers, not only from within the folk scene, but also far beyond it.
Trailblazing musical partnerships with, amongst others, Steeleye Span, Dave Swarbrick and his award-winning wife (Norma Waterson) and daughter Eliza Carthy have resulted in more than 40 albums, but Martin has only recorded 10 solo albums, of which the much anticipated Waiting for Angels (Topic TSCD527) was the latest. Whether in the folk clubs (which he continues to champion), on the concert stage or making TV appearances (he was the subject of the acclaimed `Originals’ music documentary strand on BBC 2) – there are few roles that Martin Carthy hasn’t played.
He’s a ballad singer, a ground-breaking acoustic and electric-guitarist and an authoritative interpreter of newly composed material. He always prefers to follow an insatiable musical curiosity rather than cash in on his unrivalled position. Perhaps, most significant of all, are his settings of traditional songs with guitar, which have influenced a generation of artists, including Bob Dylan and Paul Simon, on both sides of the Atlantic.
`Arguably the greatest English folk song performer, writer, collector and editor of them all’ Q Magazine
‘Carthy is a master of the ballad of substance, songs that tell stories, whether they are traditional, his own or from contemporary writers.’ The Telegraph

LIVE MUSIC: Oysland Klezmer Band
2022-03-04 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
Oysland are a 5-piece, London Klezmer band who embody the new generation of Jewish roots music. Serving an exuberant and soulful cocktail of wedding tunes and lamenting lullabies.
“‘Fabulous. Such a dynamic live band” Garth Cartwright, DJ and author of ‘Princes Amongst Men’
Swooping with panache through centuries of forgotten music, Oysland preserve all the original heartfelt melodies, foot-stomping beats and echoes of a bygone era.
“Compelling depth & authenticity’ ” DJ Ritu, A World in London, Resonance FM
A firm feature on the London Klezmer scene they play regularly at festivals and venues throughout Europe and the UK.

Live Music/ Workshop: Sticky Wicket & Latin Beats
2022-02-26 14:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
LIVE: Sticky Wicket & Latin Beats 2pm
Join Sticky , Peta Piper and Special guest Alex Magni to explore Salsa, Samba, Rumba and Bosanova. You can join in or listen and enjoy- All welcome just turn up!
FREE with Donations to Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival.
More information soon

SCRAPTASTIC WORKSHOP
2022-02-25 14:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre

SCREENING: Christmas with Andre
2021-12-23 14:00 - 16:30 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
The King of the Waltz brings you an all new festive spectacular from his newly created Winter Palace in his hometown of Maastricht.
Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season while singing and dancing away to lovely Christmas carols, romantic waltzes and beautiful melodies like Jingle Bells, O Holy Night, Hallelujah, a show-stopping performance of Walking in the Air and many more!
Marvel at the magnificent palace decorations including 150 beautiful chandeliers, over 50 Venetian candelabras and huge arched windows revealing a joyous wintery landscape including ice rinks and ice skaters.
Christmas with André is guaranteed to warm your hearts and get you in the festive spirit.
Join André for his inaugural Christmas concert all from the comfort of your local cinema. An unforgettable festive treat for the whole family.
André Rieu says: “Christmas is my favourite time of the year and nothing could be better than spending it with my friends, family and fans in my hometown. I want to invite my cinema audiences on this beautiful journey to Christmas wonderland.”
Bring your loved ones and enjoy this spectacular musical event on the big screen. Accompanying classic Christmas tunes and some incredible surprises, cinema audiences will also enjoy exclusive backstage access, and cinema host Charlotte Hawkins will be speaking with André about the creation of his musical winter wonderland.
It’s the perfect festive gift. Get your tickets now for Christmas with André!

SpArC Christmas Prize Bingo
2021-12-03 19:30 - 22:00 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
Lets get festive with Christmas Prize Bingo in aid of our beloved Sparc Centre.
Great night out for anyone! Fab prizes , refreshments all in SpArC Theatre.
JUST A QUICK MESSAGE:
As this is a ’ turn up on the night’ event we can’t guarantee socially distanced seating between groups.
The room will be well ventilated & numbers will be capped to avoid over-crowding .
Sanitizer will be provided as usual and you are welcome to wear a mask and tinsel!
Bingo cards £12 for a book of 10 games (6 cards per game.) Prizes for one and two lines and full house.
Plus Lucky Squares and Raffle
Doors 7.30- eyes down 8pm

LIVE: Looking For Me Friend: The Music of Victoria Wood
2021-11-18 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
A funny and touching tribute to this much loved and sorely missed national treasure.
Written and performed by BBC1’s All Together Now star, Paulus, (‘King of Cabaret’, The Stage) this brand-new show sees him in a fresh light as a lifelong fan and devotee of the Queen of Comedy.
“Impeccable comic flair” Time Out
“A most enjoyable evening…highly amusing” Sunday Express
Celebrate her unforgettable characters, songs and sketches and the power of friendships forged through laughter. From Mrs. Overall to Barry & Freda, everyone is there. The only thing that’s missing is you. Directed by Sarah-Louise Young (An Evening Without Kate Bush)
‘If you are a fan of Wood, or simply feel the need for some uplifting, live entertainment, then this is a must see (4 Stars)’ Musical Theatre Review.
‘Paulus is incredible. His voice and diction are amazing’ That Stagey Blog
ABOUT PAULUS
PAULUS aka Paul L Martin has been performing in theatre and cabaret for 30 years. Trained in musical theatre, he has won awards for his acting, producing and promoting work within the fields. He has performed across the world, including Berlin, Paris, Melbourne, Rome, New York, Dublin, Nicaragua and extensively around the UK. He is best-known to many as the hard-to-impress judge on BBC’s award-winning TV show, ALL TOGETHER NOW as well as previously working as a talent judge, mentor and presenter for C4 and Sky.
“King of Cabaret” The Stage
“Someone give that man a bigger stage” ThreeWeeks
“The kind of chap you could invite round for a cup of tea”
Edinburgh Evening News

Live Music: The Flying Toads & Grey Wolf
2021-11-13 19:30 - 22:00 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
The Flying Toads and Grey Wolf in Concert
The Flying Toads and Grey Wolf have joined forces to provide a rare opportunity to experience the very best in Irish/Celtic and Americana/Old Time music and song. Both bands are highly regarded exponents of their musical genres, playing regularly at festivals and music venues across the country. Don’t miss what will be an amazing evening!
The Flying Toads bring a highly entertaining concert of Irish and Celtic music and song, ranging from high-energy jigs and reels to heart-warming songs and haunting ballads – guaranteed to keep your toes tapping! Being a four piece band and each playing several traditional instruments, the ‘Toads’ focus on arrangements that explore the best blending of sounds and dynamics, as well as choosing Celtic tunes and songs that are exciting to listen to.

The Flying Toads are:
Val Marciandi: vocals, concertina, tenor banjo
Keith Whiddon: tenor banjo, bouzouki, vocals
Erik Faithfull: uilleann pipes, flute, whistle, vocals
Brian Hirst: fiddle, cittern, mandolin, vocals

‘Traditional Celtic music at its best!’ – Celtic Music Magazine
https://www.facebook.com/TheFlyingToads
Grey Wolf is an acoustic Americana/old-time folk band playing traditional instruments such as banjo, fiddle, guitar, dulcimer, mandolin, double bass alongside fine vocal and harmony singing. Grey Wolf has headlined several of the prestigious UK’s Old Time American Music and Dance Festivals; has appeared on radio, folk clubs, festivals, and music and literary venues throughout the West Midlands and beyond.

Grey Wolf are:
Jim Allen: banjo and guitar and vocals
Ben Walsh: multi-instrumentalist and vocals
Martin Thomas: multi-instrumentalist and vocals
Andy Offer: double bass and vocals

‘There’s an equality to the group’s spread of sound, but each player is continually soloing-in-motion, rising up in turn’ – The Birmingham News
https://www.facebook.com/greywolfoldtime

LIVE THEATRE: JABS
2021-11-04 19:30 - 21:00 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
If ever a play was guaranteed to connect with every single member of your audience right now … its JABS.
We’ve all been on the receiving end. But what is life like at the other end of the syringe?
When work fell off a cliff for the singer and comedienne Sally Tonge in March 2020, she took the unlikely step of retraining as an NHS vaccinator. She quickly realised that her Covid-19 vaccination pod was the smallest theatre in the world … and that the procession of people stepping into it were pure comedy gold.
JABS is played largely for affectionate laughs … with a few gentle moments of poignancy, a smattering of new songs and a touch of audience participation (because we all know what we have to do!)
It’s also a love letter to the NHS.
Sally plays herself … whilst actors Christina Cubbin and Paul Wilkinson portray an assortment of 16 characters who appear in her pod for a few minutes each.
The play is scripted and directed by Chris Eldon Lee (BBC Radio Four producer and founder member of the veteran comedy group ‘Three Men In A Bowtie’).
THE CREATIVE TEAM
Sally Tonge is a storyteller, musician and community artist. She has been working in educational, health and community settings for over 20 years. Past stage plays include Silhouette, Shakespeare’s Will (which toured to Elsinore Castle in Denmark), Ursula, Queen of the Jungle (in Edinburgh and India) Atlantic Ladies and Shrewsbury’s Finest Hour. She sings, plays guitar and tells jokes in Three Men In A Bowtie and musical duo Daylevel … and is a regular artist for Music in Hospitals.
Comedy actor Christina Cubbin made her stage debut aged 9 playing Morgan le Fay in her Junior School’s critically acclaimed production of King Arthur. More recent work includes The Railway Children, Dear Agnes, A Bloody Field By Shrewsbury, Tales of Old Bomere, Atlantic Ladies, Shrewsbury’s Finest Hour and far too many pantomimes.
Actor musician Paul Wilkinson trained at Bretton Hall, gaining a degree in Dramatic Arts. He has worked in theatre, television and film. His last theatre tour was outdoor Shakespeare on the south coast and prior to that he toured Germany for a year, worked on soaps, and did a few adverts … the worst being the one for Pringles (you think you like something until you have to eat it endlessly for two days!)
Writer and director Chris Eldon Lee has performed 500 comedy gigs with Three Men in a Bowtie and produced at least 250 programmes for BBC Radio 4. This is his 14th play.
Movement coach Maggie Love famously choreographed Grease in The West End. Her film credits include Fame and Heaven’s Gate. In 2012 she produced a pageant for The Queen, who liked it!

CANCELLED Live Fetch Theatre: The Pedlar's Tale
2021-10-21 13:15 - 14:45 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
We are sorry this show has been CANCELLED due to illness in the Theatre Company
The Fetch Theatre in partnership with Herefordshire Museums, Libraries & Archives and Arts Alive Presents The Pedlar’s Tales
The storyteller weaves a magical spell and draws you into a fantastical world bringing past events bursting into life in this pop up touring show with music, featuring a host of beautiful puppets.
Bite-sized stories contained in a quirky cart have been inspired by fascinating historical documents and objects from Herefordshire Archives and the incredible Folk-Lore of Herefordshire gathered by Ella Mary Leather. This is an engaging performance relax and enjoy the stories as ‘Silver Joan’s’ tales unfold.
Who will enjoy it? Anyone who appreciates the beauty of visual theatre and stunning puppetry, the power of storytelling and keeping tales from the past alive in the present. Family audiences of all ages aged 8 and up. Anyone interested in storytelling and puppetry.
Arts Alive Says:
‘Delighted to be a partner in the creation of this new touring show, inspired by Herefordshire Archives. Can be performed throughout the day at festivals and fetes with short bite sized stories, or all stories played consecutively as a whole theatre style performance.’

LIVE: Pentabus- Jacaranda by Lorna French
2021-10-16 19:30 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
‘Sometimes it feels so exposing just walking in the village. I told Jimmy to ignore it at first, he tried to, but it’s isolating he said, eyes on you, not a word spoken. Even when you meet their eyes they don’t look away. Like they have a right to, like you’re a spectacle, an object.’
Olivia has recently moved into her great uncle’s farmhouse. She’s not local, but she knows her way around. Matty is a gamekeeper, but he doesn’t often tell anyone. He’s wary of newcomers.
These unlikely strangers find themselves beside a stream on the longest night of the year.
Pentabus and Theatre by the Lake present a brilliant new drama from award-winning playwright Lorna French which explores loss, love, prejudice, race and belonging.
Trigger Warning: The play includes descriptions of pregnancy and child loss that could possibly be upsetting or triggering for anyone who has been affected by pregnancy loss or the death of a baby.
Director: Elle While
Suitable age 14 +
Captioned performance

LIVE : The People's String Foundation
2021-10-10 15:00 - 16:45 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
Res Publica
“Res Publica” is a brand-new musical touring show from: The People’s String Foundation. During this piece the band packs a 32-piece Gypsy Orchestra into a suitcase and takes the audience on an incredible journey of discovery. Using music, puppetry, art, cinematography and animation all set to the backdrop of a “Virtual Orchestra,” this show is unique and combines many art forms to create one immersive piece.
“The People String Foundation takes you by surprise-you think…fun loving guys filled with a sense of joie de vie !But very quickly you realise they’re much more than that-they are highly skilled musicians who combine virtuosity with a passion for genuine shared event…rare. ”
Mike Shepherd Artistic Director Kneehigh Theatre Company ****
“The vocal performances are remarkable and the orchestrations are inventive, exploratory and beautifully performed. The entire piece is fresh and youthfully enthusiastic with clear production values on a classical scale. Surely these musicians and this piece are worthy of consideration for this year’s Mercury prize.”
Ralph McTell. ****
“One of the great wonders of the West. Stonking, earthy, organic, delicate & barn-storming.”
Charles Hazlewood, Conducter & Composer ****
Find out more about this incredible and fascinating group
VISIT WEBSITE

MID WALES OPERA LIVE: IL TABARRO
2021-10-02 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London)
TICKETS ON SALE TUESDAY 31ST AUGUST 9AM
We couldn’t be more delighted to welcome Mid Wales Opera back to SpArC for a second time this year.
Mid Wales Opera presents Puccini’s passionate late masterpiece Il tabarro, or ‘The Cloak’. Set on the banks of the Seine, this one act opera tells the short story of the barge owner Michele who suspects his young wife Giorgetta of being unfaithful. Packed with side plots and characters bringing to life the sights and sounds of 1900s Paris, the opera reaches its dramatic conclusion when Michele unexpectedly catches his wife’s lover at the strike of a match. With alluring melodies and a fast-moving pace, Il tabarro sees the great opera composer at the very height of his powers.

MWO’s new production features 6 singers and 4 musicians, with a new English translation by Richard Studer and a new chamber arrangement by Jonathan Lyness. The opera will be followed by a second half continuing the Parisian theme with a mix of entertaining musical items featuring all of our talented singers and musicians.

Cyflwyna Opera Canolbarth Cymru orchestwaith hwyr Puccini, Il tabarro neu ‘The Cloak’. Stori fer yw’r opera un act hon, wedi’i gosodd ar lannau’r Seine, am berchennog cwch camlas o’r enw Michele, sy’n amau bod ei wraig, Giorgetta, yn bod yn anffyddlon. Mae’r opera’n llawn is-blotiau ac is-gymeriadau, a chyfeiriadau at olygfeydd a synau Paris yn y 1900au. Daw’r opera i ddiweddglo dramatig pan ddalia Michele gariad ei wraig yn annisgwyl ar daniad matsien. Gyda melodïau cyfareddol a thyndra cyffrous, mae Il tabarro yn dangos gwaith y cyfansoddwr gwych pan oedd ei allu ar ei anterth.

Mae cynhyrchiad newydd OCC yn cynnwys 6 canwr a 4 cerddor, gyda chyfieithiad newydd i’r Saesneg gan Richard Studer a threfniant siambr newydd gan Jonathan Lyness. Yn yr ail hanner, ar ôl yr opera, byddwn yn parhau â thema Paris gyda chymysgedd o eitemau cerddorol difyr gan ein holl gantorion a’n cerddorion dawnus.

LIVE MUSIC: Anna Ash
2021-09-23 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
It will be wonderful to welcome Anna to SpArC Theatre
“Anna Ash captures those long late afternoons when the sun is low but the heat hasn’t yet broken … Call it country, call it rock’n’roll, call it pulling off the road somewhere between Silver Lake and Bakersfield just to roll a cigarette, kick at the gravel, and brood….her songs tell of friends lost to love and loneliness, lovers who conflate real life and fiction, experiences that refuse to conform to familiar plot lines” – Connor Towne O’Neill
Anna Ash is a Michigan born, currently Los Angeles based, musician. Her music has been featured on the Showtime series’ Billions and Masters of Sex, as well as Freeform’s The Fosters and Epix’s docuseries Helter Skelter: An American Myth. Her 2016 self-released album, Floodlights, received attention from the Huffington Post and Elmore magazine, and placements on Spotify’s Fresh Finds, Torch and Twang, Noir, and Fresh Folk playlists. In 2013, her first album, These Holy Days, was released in Japan on Tugboat Records, but since then, she has been self-releasing her albums.
Her last full-length record, L.A. Flame, was mixed by Grammy-award-winning engineer Ryan Freeland (Ray LaMontagne, Bonnie Raitt, Joe Henry). The album was tracked over the course of four days at Mark Rains’ Stationhouse Studio in Echo Park. It features Theo Katzman, Aaron Stern, Lee Pardini, Laura Mace, Matt LaRocca, Jason Roberts, Brian Whelan, and James Cornelison. Ash self-produced the album, and engineered most of the overdubs at her home in Mt. Washington. It was released on vinyl in collaboration with Black Mesa Records in January 2020.
In the spring of 2021 she will be releasing a new EP titled Fire Season; it was recorded and mixed at Eli Crews’ home studio in the Catskill Mountains in November of 2020.

POETRY SLAM WORKSHOP (18+)
2021-08-05 18:00 - 19:30 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
Thursday 5th August workshops for Adults
An energetic workshops to unlock creativity and performance
6-7.30 pm £6 at Sparc Theatre
“Fun Lively energetic hilarious inspiring ….Boost confidence in performing or public speaking … overcome obstacles through creating and performing their own work,… listening to their peers….supportive and positive atmosphere….try new things…. Move out of their comfort zones.”
A Little Bit About Spoz
Spoz (real name Giovanni Esposito) is an award winning performance poet, singer / songwriter, film maker, playwright and is the poet-in-residence at Birmingham City FC. He’s performed on television radio and at Glastonbury, Shambala, Cheltenham Literature Fest, & Larmer Tree, to name a few… as well as infront of his Mom. He was Birmingham’s Poet Laureate in 2006 /7. And is a published author.
“I’ve been running poetry and poetry slam projects all over since 2005, and the writing I get from people amazes, encourages and enlightens me everyday. “
Spoz has a website. You can have a look if you like www.spoz.co

SPOZ POETRY SLAM WORKSHOP (7-17yrs)
2021-08-05 11:00 - 16:30 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
Thursday 5th August workshops
For 7-11yrs 11am-1pm £6 at Sparc Theatre
For 12-17yrs 2pm-4.30pm £6 at Sparc Theatre
An energetic workshops to unlock creativity and performance
“Fun Lively energetic hilarious inspiring ….Boost confidence in performing or public speaking … overcome obstacles through creating and performing their own work,… listening to their peers….supportive and positive atmosphere….try new things…. Move out of their comfort zones.”
A Little Bit About Spoz
Spoz (real name Giovanni Esposito) is an award winning performance poet, singer / songwriter, film maker, playwright and is the poet-in-residence at Birmingham City FC. He’s performed on television radio and at Glastonbury, Shambala, Cheltenham Literature Fest, & Larmer Tree, to name a few… as well as infront of his Mom. He was Birmingham’s Poet Laureate in 2006 /7. And is a published author.
“I’ve been running poetry and poetry slam projects all over since 2005, and the writing I get from young people amazes, encourages and enlightens me everyday. “
Spoz has a website. You can have a look if you like www.spoz.co

THEATRE & WORKSHOPS: Clementine Live Arts- Ernie's Journey
2021-07-27 13:00 - 19:00 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
Show 1 -1pm-2pm
Show 2- 6pm-7pm
Ernie’s Journey is a magical circus theatre adventure for family audiences. The seamless integration of story-telling, circus, physical theatre, stage magic, poetry and puppetry will nurture and excite your inner-child.
An original live concert-harp score takes the tale from the dreamy realms of distant shores to the most raucous sea shanties!
This show is particularly enchanting for 4-11 year-olds but the high-skill circus will amaze even the most cynical teenagers!
A young boy sets off one day to become a pirate. He will never make it! Or will he?
£7 per person Family Ticket £30
Circus skills workshops for all shapes, sizes, ages and abilities!

Learn how to throw, catch, balance, spin and roll a whole host of traditional circus props! Participants will be invited to learn juggling, diablo, flower sticks, poi and plate spinning to name but a few… there will be something in this workshop for EVERYONE regardless of age or ability.
£6
Workshop 1- 2.30-3.30pm
Workshop 2- 4.00-5.00pm
This event is part of out Pocket Park project to support people to start enjoying fun activities the outdoors again with people!
This event is supported by The Blakemore Trust

FREE PRACTICE SESSIONS FOR NEW BANDS
2021-07-26 10:30 - 2021-08-23 16:00 (Europe/London) | SpArC Theatre
FREE PRACTICE SESSIONS
AVAILABLE TO NEW BANDS

NEED SPACE FOR YOUR BAND TO PRACTICE?

LET US KNOW IF YOU NEED HELP WITH EQUIPMENT OR SETTING UP
Contact: Liz@sparctheatre.co.uk to book a time at the Theatre at SpArC
Current Available Dates and Times
Monday 26th July 10.30– 12pm, 12.30—2pm , 2 .30- 4pm
Monday 2nd August 10.30– 1, 12.30-2pm, 2.30-4pm
Friday 6th August 10.30– 1, 12.30-2pm, 2.30-4pm
Monday 9th August 3- 4.30
Monday 23rd August 10.30– 1, 12.30-2pm, 2.30-4pm
More dates may become available
