2020: What’s happened at the Arts Centre?

Jan 2020

Wassail
Friday 17 January 2020 at 5:30 PM
Wassail

Gather in the forecourt, sing, bang things, then head off to cast out evil spirits from fruit trees around the town!


National Iyengar Yoga Day
Saturday 18 January 2020 at 10:30 AM
National Iyengar Yoga Day

With Gavin Tilstone, giving a free class and demo in the morning, and a workshop for more experienced yogis in the afternoon. Also a free lunch!


Fireworks (Theatre)
Saturday 18 January 2020 at 7:30 PM
Fireworks (Theatre)

Fireworks is an experimental piece of new writing exploring the dichotomy of whether the connections we make in life form through fate, or are random events in a chaotic universe. Paralleling two narratives in two timelines, this is a story about love, faith and the science behind CERN’s Large Hadron Collider.


Theros Beyond Death
Sunday 19 January 2020 at 2:00 PM
Theros Beyond Death

Theros Beyond Death-tournament with prizes. £26.50 on the door for the Pre-Release pack & tournament.
Or, £2 for a table to play other games (Dungeons & Dragons, Dice Masters, Star Wars Destiny and so on.)

The best fantasy strategic card game for all ages over 11.
Everyone welcome. Or just come along and watch, play casual games of Magic. Help will be on hand for beginners!


Adrian Cox Quartet: Now Is Spring tour
Friday 24 January 2020 at 7:30 PM
Adrian Cox Quartet: Now Is Spring tour

It’s become a tradition already at the Arts Centre to start off each year with a visit from Adrian Cox. This is his third January gig here, with the same stupendous band. This is jazz and showmanship of the highest calibre – you are GUARANTEED to leave with a smile on your face and the tunes running around your head for days.


Burns Night Ceilidh with ReJig
Saturday 25 January 2020 at 7:30 PM
Burns Night Ceilidh with ReJig

Dance to the fabulous Re-Jig (freestyle and called) eat haggis, drink whisky, listen to a wee bit of Robbie Burns – what’s not to like!? And the booking link is now FIXED (apologies).


Dartmouth Orchestra: Winter Concert
Sunday 26 January 2020 at 3:00 PM
Dartmouth Orchestra: Winter Concert

Prokofiev’s sparkling sleigh ride music ‘Troika’, Haydn’s bold trumpet concerto with Tony Hindley, the brass section playing The Nutcracker dances, ‘Walking in the Air’ from “The Snowman” sung by Olly Simmonds and Mendelssohn’s dreamy Scottish Symphony. Admission £12, Children Free.


Roofer (Swiss jazz quintet)
Sunday 26 January 2020 at 7:30 PM
Roofer (Swiss jazz quintet)

Five top jazz musicians from Switzrland, on tour in the UK, including Ashburton Arts Centre alongside venues like the Vortex in London. They’re unusual, quirky, original – and very entertaining. Impossible to predict, but it looks like it’ll be fun!


Talk & film: Chris Chapman on Hope Bourne
Thursday 30 January 2020 at 7:30 PM
Talk & film: Chris Chapman on Hope Bourne

A talk by Chris Chapman, Exmoor Hill Farmer


Film: Leave No Trace (12A)
Friday 31 January 2020 at 7:30 PM
Film: Leave No Trace (12A)

A father and daughter live a perfect but mysterious existence in Forest Park, a beautiful nature reserve near Portland, Oregon, rarely making contact with the world. But when a small mistake tips them off to the authorities, they are sent on an increasingly erratic journey in search of a place to call their own.


Feb 2020

Magical Deceptions with Brian Rappert
Sunday 2 February 2020 at 6:30 PM
Magical Deceptions with Brian Rappert

Join Brian in a latest interactive performance of trickery. We will use the play of secrecy, disclosure and deception in magic to discuss the role of secrecy, disclosure and deception in art, science, war, and daily life.


Bhangra Folk Dance at Ashburton
Saturday 8 February 2020 at 2:00 PM
Bhangra Folk Dance at Ashburton

Have you ever wanted to try dances of India? Now is your chance, join us for Bhangra folk dance session. Dancing for health and well being and FUN!


Julian Costello Quartet
Saturday 8 February 2020 at 7:30 PM
Julian Costello Quartet

Julian Costello – saxes
Maciek Pysz – guitars
Yuri Goloubev – double bass
Adam Teixeira – drums


Magical Deceptions with Brian Rappert (sold out – try 23 Feb or 8 Mar)
Sunday 9 February 2020 at 6:30 PM
Magical Deceptions with Brian Rappert (sold out – try 23 Feb or 8 Mar)

Join Brian in a latest interactive performance of trickery. We will use the play of secrecy, disclosure and deception in magic to discuss the role of secrecy, disclosure and deception in art, science, war, and daily life.


Brownman Akoustic Quartet
Saturday 15 February 2020 at 7:30 PM
Brownman Akoustic Quartet

The Brownman Akoustic Quartet


Martin Shaw & Liam Ó Maonlaí: workshop
Sunday 16 February 2020 at 10:00 AM
Martin Shaw & Liam Ó Maonlaí: workshop

Before the evening’s performance from this giant of Irish music Liam O’Maonlai (Hothouse Flowers) and much celebrated storyteller Martin Shaw, join them for a workshop during the day.


Liam Ó'Maonlaí and Martin Shaw: A night of song and story
Sunday 16 February 2020 at 7:30 PM
Liam Ó'Maonlaí and Martin Shaw: A night of song and story

Join us for a night of enchantment, humour and sheer waywardness with giant of Irish music 
Liam O’Maonlai 
(Hothouse Flowers) 
and much celebrated storyteller Martin Shaw
 on a journey into the power of language, tradition, innovation 
and wonder. Something for the lover in all of us!


Staircase Opera: The Consul
Tuesday 18 February 2020 at 7:30 PM
Staircase Opera: The Consul

Ever been frustrated by bureaucracy? Ever been daunted by official forms? Ever needed a document in a hurry? Ever had your life depend on it?


Pugs of the Frozen North
Friday 21 February 2020 at 6:00 PM
Pugs of the Frozen North

A fabulous family theatre show for half term. Award-winning company The Foundry Group presents Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre’s Pugs of the Frozen North, in this new adaptation.
Two shows: 3pm and 6pm.


Mardi Gras Parade with Grimspound Border Morris: FREE
Saturday 22 February 2020 at 6:30 PM
Mardi Gras Parade with Grimspound Border Morris: FREE

Turn up between 6 – 6.30pm and gather in the forecourt – or the bar! Weather-permitting, there’ll be a short parade around the centre of town, leaving from the forecourt of the arts centre at 6.30pm – bring puppets, lanterns, lights, musical instruments… We’ll be joined by Grimspound Border Morris – who’ll do a performance in the Arts Centre Forecourt at 7pm. After this, move inside for live music from Frisco Fiasco.


Mardi Gras: Frisco Fiasco and Mama Tokus
Saturday 22 February 2020 at 7:30 PM
Mardi Gras: Frisco Fiasco and Mama Tokus

We’re celebrating Mardi Gras in the great town of Ashburton. There will be a New Orleans-style parade at 6.30pm, then some West Country bonkersness with the Grimspound Border Morris crew dancing outside the Arts Centre at 7pm. Followed by Frisco Fiasco and the one and only Mama Tokus from 7.30pm inside.


Film: Bohemian Rhapsody (12A)
Friday 28 February 2020 at 7:30 PM
Film: Bohemian Rhapsody (12A)

Bohemian Rhapsody is a foot-stomping celebration of Queen, their music and their extraordinary lead singer Freddie Mercury.


Weird Dog #4
Saturday 29 February 2020 - Sunday 1 March 2020 at 8:00 PM
Weird Dog #4

WeirdDog returns to Ashburton Arts Centre on Saturday 29th February.
Bringing you the best Progressive, Tech House and Techno of 2019 for this leap year special. Live visuals from Cad with Matt and Andy providing the rest.


Mar 2020

Lisa Schneidau: The Tangle of the Commons
Sunday 1 March 2020 at 4:00 PM
Lisa Schneidau: The Tangle of the Commons

The Tangle of the Commons tells the story of the British landscape and our relationship with the wild things around us, seen and unseen. Who really owns this place – and what happens if humans push things too far?


Ben Cox Quintet: Hourglass – The music of James Taylor
Sunday 1 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Ben Cox Quintet: Hourglass – The music of James Taylor

Straight off the back of two successful albums, Ben Cox, whose debut album ‘This Waiting Game’ was listed in the Telegraph’s Top Jazz Albums 2015, brings together a new band to celebrate the music of Grammy award winning American singer songwriter James Taylor.


Alice Night and Me in Art/Martine
Thursday 5 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Alice Night and Me in Art/Martine

An evening of two beautiful souls sharing their experience of the world through song, voice and guitar.


Crystal Jacqueline Acoustic Band
Friday 6 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Crystal Jacqueline Acoustic Band

Playing songs from her four studio albums as well as re-imaginings of songs by Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and Emmylou Harris. Performed by a four-piece acoustic set up including double bass and oboe.


Phil Beer
Saturday 7 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Phil Beer

Phil Beer (of Show of Hands) is appearing at Ashburton Arts Centre as part of his So Much to Choose From 2020 Tour. This is looking popular already so book quickly!


International Women's Day: Listening Room – Occupy The Airwaves
Sunday 8 March 2020 at 10:00 AM
International Women's Day: Listening Room – Occupy The Airwaves

Public Access to Occupy the Airwaves – an all day broadcast by women from Dreadnought South West, via Phonic FM, Exeter. The Lounge at the Arts Centre will be set up as a room to listen to this broadcast for anyone who wants to drop in.


Torbay Symphony Orchestra: Tchaikovsky #5, Sam Richards – informal
Sunday 8 March 2020 at 3:30 PM
Torbay Symphony Orchestra: Tchaikovsky #5, Sam Richards – informal

The Torbay Symphony Orchestra is back at Ashburton Arts Centre for a rehearsal. Watch as they perform Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony and a brand new commission from Totnes composer Sam Richards called Planetarium.


Magical Deceptions with Brian Rappert
Sunday 8 March 2020 at 6:30 PM
Magical Deceptions with Brian Rappert

Join Brian in a latest interactive performance of trickery. We will use the play of secrecy, disclosure and deception in magic to discuss the role of secrecy, disclosure and deception in art, science, war, and daily life. Max 12 in audience. This is an intimate affair.


Night Flying - Jane Mason
Friday 13 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Night Flying - Jane Mason

Drawing on ideas related to deep time, the night sky and landscapes of being, Night Flying is a duet with long-time collaborator David Williams. Together they explore a constellation of associations related to memory, change and wonder.


Steve Turner: cancelled
Saturday 14 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Steve Turner: cancelled

With regret, because of the health risk posed by the current corona virus pandemic, this gig has been postponed. The new date will be later this year sometime.


Gaz Hughes Sextet: Art Blakey tribute
Sunday 15 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Gaz Hughes Sextet: Art Blakey tribute

The Gaz Hughes Sextet plays Art Blakey


Film: The Lavender Hill Mob (U) CANCELLED
Wednesday 18 March 2020 at 2:00 PM
Film: The Lavender Hill Mob (U) CANCELLED

After two decades of service to his employers, gold bullion carrier Henry Holland (Alec Guinness) decides to run off with more than a million pounds worth of the stuff.


Sam Walker : Cancelled
Wednesday 18 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Sam Walker : Cancelled

Sam Walker travels the world performing solo in a multi-instrumental set up. His live shows are gaining a reputation for boundless energy, dynamic shifts and much multi-instrumentalism.


Alliance Française: Evening of Poetry & Irish Music : Cancelled
Friday 20 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Alliance Française: Evening of Poetry & Irish Music : Cancelled

French writer Mélisande Fitzsimons will be reading a mix of English and French poems interspersed with music by Irish musician Mark Fitzsimons.


Gabriel Moreno & the Quivering Poets CANCELLED
Saturday 21 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Gabriel Moreno & the Quivering Poets CANCELLED

Gabriel Moreno is a singer songwriter and poet, originally from Gibraltar, now based in London. He is considered an heir of the western troubadour tradition under the influence of songwriter greats such as Leonard Cohen, Nick Cave.


Film: Woman at War (12A) CANCELLED
Friday 27 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Film: Woman at War (12A) CANCELLED

Halla is a 50 year old independent woman. But, behind the scene of a quiet routine, she leads a double life as a passionate environmental activist.


Ashburton Singers CANCELLED
Saturday 28 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Ashburton Singers CANCELLED

Spring Songs, Love Songs and Lullabies featuring music by Elgar, Rutter, Whitacre and Termis.


Stillhouse Junkies CANCELLED
Sunday 29 March 2020 at 7:30 PM
Stillhouse Junkies CANCELLED

This talented American trio combines a wide range of influences including bluegrass, Western Swing, blues and more, to create an attractive groove-filled blend of American roots music.


The Ciderhouse Rebellion now ONLINE
Tuesday 31 March 2020 at 7:00 PM
The Ciderhouse Rebellion now ONLINE

Violinist Adam Summerhayes and master accordionist Murray Grainger present their debut album UNTOLD. Live performances will be a mix of pure, magical, improvisation alongside the duo’s take on traditional folk tunes (particularly from the North-East) and their own original material.


Apr 2020

Monthly Life Drawing on Zoom
Saturday 4 April 2020 at 11:00 AM
Monthly Life Drawing on Zoom

As usual on the first Saturday of the month, we’re hosting a Life Drawing session – but this time using Zoom, which the Arts Centre has already been using successfully for the last couple of weeks.


Auction for the Arts
Saturday 4 April 2020 at 12:00 PM
Auction for the Arts

Join us at the Arts Centre , where we will have a bar and live music, to hear the winning bids in the Auction for the Arts be announced.


Jenny Quick: Beethoven by Bike - The inner and the outer journey
Sunday 5 April 2020 at 4:00 PM
Jenny Quick: Beethoven by Bike - The inner and the outer journey

Beethoven’s epic penultimate piano sonata, Opus 110. Preceded by a talk about Jenny’s year-long bike journey, the people she met in her travels who heard this sonata, anecdotes and adventures.


Magic in an Age of Pretence
Sunday 5 April 2020 at 8:00 PM
Magic in an Age of Pretence

Join magician and academic Brian Rappert for online magic – some of which you will do yourself!


The Askew Sisters
Thursday 9 April 2020 at 7:30 PM
The Askew Sisters

Folk music from the Askew Sisters. ‘Gifted multi-instrumentalists, singers and writers’ 
(Mark Radcliffe, BBC Radio 2) singing ‘beautiful, uncanny and subtly political songs’ 
(The Guardian).


Magic in an Age of Pretence [on Zoom]
Sunday 12 April 2020 at 8:00 PM
Magic in an Age of Pretence [on Zoom]

These are challenging times. How we communicate, how we look at one another, and how we make perceive our everyday surrounding are shifting from day to day. Join with Prof Brian Rappert in using magic as a method for reflecting our altered experiences. In this highly interactive, on-line event, some of the magic will take place in your very hands! And who doesn’t need a bit more magic in their lives these days… (this is an online magic show – so the audience can be anywhere in the world!)


Magic in an Age of Pretence [on Zoom]
Sunday 19 April 2020 at 8:00 PM
Magic in an Age of Pretence [on Zoom]

These are challenging times. How we communicate, how we look at one another, and how we make perceive our everyday surrounding are shifting from day to day. Join with Prof Brian Rappert in using magic as a method for reflecting our altered experiences. In this highly interactive, on-line event, some of the magic will take place in your very hands! And who doesn’t need a bit more magic in their lives these days… (this is an online magic show – so the audience can be anywhere in the world!)


Magic in an Age of Pretence [on Zoom]
Sunday 26 April 2020 at 8:00 PM
Magic in an Age of Pretence [on Zoom]

These are challenging times. How we communicate, how we look at one another, and how we make perceive our everyday surrounding are shifting from day to day. Join with Prof Brian Rappert in using magic as a method for reflecting our altered experiences. In this highly interactive, on-line event, some of the magic will take place in your very hands! And who doesn’t need a bit more magic in their lives these days… (this is an online magic show – so the audience can be anywhere in the world!)


May 2020

Magic in an Age of Pretence [on Zoom]
Sunday 10 May 2020 at 8:00 PM
Magic in an Age of Pretence [on Zoom]

These are challenging times. How we communicate, how we look at one another, and how we make perceive our everyday surrounding are shifting from day to day. Join with Prof Brian Rappert in using magic as a method for reflecting our altered experiences. In this highly interactive, on-line event, some of the magic will take place in your very hands! And who doesn’t need a bit more magic in their lives these days… (this is an online magic show – so the audience can be anywhere in the world!)


Sam Leak: solo piano (online)
Saturday 23 May 2020 at 8:00 PM
Sam Leak: solo piano (online)

Sam Leak performs contemporary jazz with a gospel-tinged, and folk-inspired, freedom and abandon. Conjuring up the joy and emotion typified by Paul Bley and Keith Jarrett, he maintains a sense of the tradition whilst performing music that is very much rooted in the UK Jazz movement of the moment. Join us, and the other audience members online.


Cancelled: Film: Bait (15)
Friday 29 May 2020 at 7:30 PM
Cancelled: Film: Bait (15)

Martin Ward is a cove fisherman, without a boat. His brother Stephen has re-purposed their father’s vessel as a tourist tripper,driving a wedge between the brothers. As his struggle to restore the family to their traditional place creates increasing friction with tourists and locals alike, a tragedy at the heart of the family changes his world. Jowan Jacobs, who plays Hugo, will be attending the screening.


Jun 2020

Magic in an Age of Pretence [on Zoom]
Thursday 4 June 2020 at 8:00 PM
Magic in an Age of Pretence [on Zoom]

These are challenging times. How we communicate, how we look at one another, and how we make perceive our everyday surrounding are shifting from day to day. Join with Prof Brian Rappert in using magic as a method for reflecting our altered experiences. In this highly interactive, on-line event, some of the magic will take place in your very hands! And who doesn’t need a bit more magic in their lives these days… (this is an online magic show – so the audience can be anywhere in the world!)


Sam Walker: live from the Arts Centre
Friday 5 June 2020 at 8:00 PM
Sam Walker: live from the Arts Centre

Sam is a fabulous performer, this evening in his multi-instrumentalist solo version.
“A modern one man band full of hope, fury and joy” – Zig Zag


Film: Judy (12A)
Friday 26 June 2020 at 7:30 PM
Film: Judy (12A)

Winter 1968 and showbiz legend Judy Garland arrives in Swinging London to perform a five-week sold-out run at The Talk of the Town. Featuring some of her best-known songs, the film celebrates the voice, the capacity for love, and the sheer pizzazz of “the world’s greatest entertainer.”


Jul 2020

AshArts Poets: Live Stream from the Arts Centre
Friday 10 July 2020 at 7:30 PM
AshArts Poets: Live Stream from the Arts Centre

For the second live-streamed performance from the Arts Centre, Lucy Lepchani has brought together six of the best local poets: Roger Philip Dennis, Jackie Juno, Harula Ladd, Ceri Baker, Sam Richards and Graham Chilcott.
To book your place, email: boxoffice@ashburtonarts.org.uk and you’ll receive details for payment and joining via Zoom or Youtube.
Pay £9 or £6 or £3 or £0, as you can afford.


Haldon String Quartet: Out of Isolation
Friday 24 July 2020 at 7:30 PM
Haldon String Quartet: Out of Isolation

The Haldon Quartet is delighted to play a live concert (albeit socially distanced) of works by two composers who wrote music in the confines of isolation, proving how the imagination flies free even in this situation.


** LIVE OUTDOOR EVENT ** Harp Horn & the Angels, Mohamed Errebbaa & Chloë Rose Laing
Thursday 30 July 2020 at 6:00 PM
** LIVE OUTDOOR EVENT ** Harp Horn & the Angels, Mohamed Errebbaa & Chloë Rose Laing

Emerging blinking into the summer light through the pandemic’s tunnel we present, in a fabulous outdoor venue, 10 minutes walk from the centre of Ashburton, this new band of musicians, all extremely experienced in the art of making a joyful noise!


Harp Horn & the Angels: Live Stream
Friday 31 July 2020 at 7:30 PM
Harp Horn & the Angels: Live Stream

Expect loose, fresh, joyful, pulsating spiritually upbeat sounds from:
David Mowat: veteran world jazz trumpeter
Emmy Broughton: rising star of the concert harp
Will Broughton: guitars
Jamie Broughton: vocals
Pete Warner: drums


Aug 2020

Magic: Who Cares?
Sunday 9 August 2020 at 8:00 PM
Magic: Who Cares?

A NEW show from Prof. Brian Rappert, our resident magician with an academic twist, bringing an insight into the world of deception (by governments and others) where some of the magic happens in your own hands!


** LIVE OUTDOORS ** Mark Harrison Band
Friday 14 August 2020 at 6:00 PM
** LIVE OUTDOORS ** Mark Harrison Band

Singer-songwriter Mark Harrison combines with Charles Benfield on double bass and percussionist Ben Welburn to create wonderful early acoustic blues with folk influences. Modern lyrics, contagious energy and good humour provide a unique and highly enjoyable experience.


Magic: Who Cares?
Sunday 16 August 2020 at 8:00 PM
Magic: Who Cares?

A NEW show from Prof. Brian Rappert, our resident magician with an academic twist, bringing an insight into the world of deception (by governments and others) where some of the magic happens in your own hands!


Ash Arts Poets #2: Live Stream from the Arts Centre
Friday 21 August 2020 at 7:30 PM
Ash Arts Poets #2: Live Stream from the Arts Centre

For the second Ash Arts Poets session, live streamed from the Arts Centre, Lucy Lepchani has brought together six more of the best local poets: Chris Brooks, Stephen Tame, Sara Hurley, Jonathan Croose Rebecca Gethin and Susan Taylor

To book your place, email: boxoffice@ashburtonarts.org.uk and you’ll receive details for payment and joining via Zoom or Youtube.
Pay £9 or £6 or £3 or £0, as you can afford.


Magic: Who Cares?
Sunday 30 August 2020 at 8:00 PM
Magic: Who Cares?

A NEW show from Prof. Brian Rappert, our resident magician with an academic twist, bringing an insight into the world of deception (by governments and others) where some of the magic happens in your own hands!


Sep 2020

Annika Skoogh Sings Anita O'Day: Jazz on a Late Summer's Eve
Saturday 5 September 2020 at 6:00 PM
Annika Skoogh Sings Anita O'Day: Jazz on a Late Summer's Eve

Annika Skoogh on vocals, Craig Milverton on keys – UK’s best Oscar Peterson interpreter (British Jazz Awards winner in 2010), Steve Dow on guitar, Jim Rintoul on double bass and Gary Evans on drums. This promises to be a great evening, don’t miss it!


Reg Meuross: Album launch ‘Raw’
Saturday 12 September 2020 at 7:30 PM
Reg Meuross: Album launch ‘Raw’

Join us at this very special gig to celebrate the completion of Reg’s RAW trilogy of solo recordings comprising 2016’s December and 2017’s Faraway People. RAW has been described as “intelligent songwriting of the highest calibre” Folk Radio UK.


Liane Carroll: Group Singing Workshop
Saturday 19 September 2020 at 2:00 PM
Liane Carroll: Group Singing Workshop

Group singing workshop – all welcome.


Liane Carroll: Saturday 19 Sept
Saturday 19 September 2020 at 7:30 PM
Liane Carroll: Saturday 19 Sept

Simply one of the finest performers, anywhere in the world. Liane Carroll is already a legend among musicians – and anyone who’s ever seen her live. Book tickets for this concert and come. Bring a friend. They will thank you and you’ll never regret it!


Liane Carroll: Masterclass
Sunday 20 September 2020 at 2:00 PM
Liane Carroll: Masterclass

10 local singers will each work with Liane on the performance of a song of their choice.
An opportunity to see behind the scenes, and get some tips from one of the UK’s great performers. Audience tickets, £8 or £4 – pay what you can.


Liane Carroll: Sunday 20 Sept
Sunday 20 September 2020 at 7:30 PM
Liane Carroll: Sunday 20 Sept

Simply one of the finest performers, anywhere in the world. Liane Carroll is already a legend among musicians – and anyone who’s ever seen her live. Book tickets for this concert and come. Bring a friend. They will thank you and you’ll never regret it!


Cancelled: Abbey Brass plays George Lloyd
Saturday 26 September 2020 at 2:00 PM

This 13 piece ensemble, featuring top national and regional players, will be performing George Lloyd’s 10th Symphony. George Lloyd was born in St Ives in 1913 and had quite an eventful life! See: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Lloyd_(composer)
It’s a stunning piece — here’s a preview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmkpFx9ryBM


Oct 2020

Kali Yuga Jive (a story and a concert)
Saturday 3 October 2020 at 7:30 PM
Kali Yuga Jive (a story and a concert)

Story-wizzard Iwan Kushka is joined by everybody’s favourite swing jazz band ‘Skedaddle’ for his rambunctious rendition of an epic Indian tale in which two boys meet one girl and loose their hearts (and heads) in the process. An experience of rhapsodic scale, humour, and Eastern wisdom, interlaced with an up-beat jazzy musical score. 


Nigel Price Organ Quartet
Sunday 4 October 2020 at 7:30 PM
Nigel Price Organ Quartet

With extraordinary panache, tenacity, dedication and sheer force of personality, Nigel Price (who is an AMAZING guitarist) and his band who are all equally extraordinary musicians are going on tour. Who knows what the next three months brings – but we have everything crossed that here in South Devon we are still able to host them in front of a live audience on Sunday 4 October. Do whatever it takes to be there – this is going to be good!


Craig Milverton, Eleisha May & Andy Williamson
Saturday 10 October 2020 at 7:30 PM
Craig Milverton, Eleisha May & Andy Williamson

Craig Milverton is one of Britain’s finest Jazz Pianists and this was recognised in 2010 by winning Best Jazz Pianist in the British Jazz Awards. At only 22, Eleisha May has already performed at many jazz venues and festivals including Brecon, Pershore, Upton, Bude, Lyme Regis, Teignmouth, Beaminster and Dartmouth.


Claude Bourbon
Monday 12 October 2020 at 7:30 PM
Claude Bourbon

A superb guitarist and singer, originally from France and Switzerland, who’s played and studied all over the world.
“A breathtaking acoustic fusion of blues, jazz, folk, classical and Spanish guitar from a stunning guitar virtuoso…” Altadena News, Los Angeles, USA


Carolyn Hume & Paul May
Sunday 18 October 2020 at 7:30 PM
Carolyn Hume & Paul May

Paul May (drums) and Carolyn Hume (piano, keys) eleased 6 critically-acclaimed albums on Leo Records and have a new duo album ready for release in early 2021. Their music moves from minimalist romanticism to unsettling and remote landscapes. “…the pianist Hume and the drummer May create a beguiling soundscape whose delicate shifts of mood and texture are simple but extraordinarily effective. …” Phil Johnson, The Independent


OK Aurora
Tuesday 20 October 2020 at 7:30 PM
OK Aurora

Rod Oughton (drums) leads the octet OK Aurora, which takes its inspiration from artists such as Steely Dan and Becca Stevens, creating a fusion of contemporary jazz and popular music. Expect anything from simple folk songs to abstract improvisation and changing metres.


Not Only But Also The Blues
Monday 26 October 2020 at 7:30 PM
Not Only But Also The Blues

Black Cat Bone : Feat: Phil Mignaud (vocals/guitar)
MBE : Mary Caffery, Emily Veise Smith, Bill Birks
Russell Sinclair : Solo guitar and vocals


Sarah Outen: Dare to Do – Dare to be: Journeys by land, sea and mind (Live on Zoom/YouTube)
Thursday 29 October 2020 at 7:30 PM
Sarah Outen: Dare to Do – Dare to be: Journeys by land, sea and mind (Live on Zoom/YouTube)

Between 2009 and 2015 Sarah Outen clocked nearly 30,000 human-powered miles across oceans in tiny rowing boats and kayaks and continents by bike. Sarah will be sharing tales and insight from her journeys – the physical, spiritual and emotional: of setting out, of carrying on and letting go. Of coming home while ever journeying, in the physical and metaphorical senses – of healing, transitioning, becoming…


Art Between The Windows #2 and The Spicie Takes
Friday 30 October 2020 at 7:30 AM
Art Between The Windows #2 and The Spicie Takes

A second chance to see this new exhibition of Art by Eva, Amy, Maisie and Issy – all A level Art Students at South Dartmoor Community College. Admission free, please book in advance.


When the Veil is Thin: Dunstan Belcher, Sam Walker & John Matthias
Saturday 31 October 2020 at 8:00 PM
When the Veil is Thin: Dunstan Belcher, Sam Walker & John Matthias

Three fabulous musicians who always come up with something fascinating and atmospheric. The lights will be low, and indeed, the veil will be thin, on this eve of all hallows… In a building with the history of the Arts Centre, built as a Methodist Church in 1835, who knows what spirits will join us?


Nov 2020

Riviera Ramblers: First Sunday afternoon session
Sunday 1 November 2020 at 1:00 PM
Riviera Ramblers: First Sunday afternoon session

The Riviera Ramblers is a local band of fine musicians. In October they came to the Arts Centre at the last minute, after their other gig was cancelled. It was a great session, and we decided to make it a monthly thing on the first Sunday afternoon of the month at 1pm.


Talk: David Constantine – From Motivation to Sitting Images
Thursday 26 November 2020 at 7:30 PM
Talk: David Constantine – From Motivation to Sitting Images

David Constantine is one of the most inspiring people I have ever met. His life is full of of compelling which he tells in a self-effacing but gripping way. They’re accompanied by some beautiful images. This is an online event on Zoom and YouTube.


Cancelled: Ocean Winter Market
Saturday 28 November 2020 - Sunday 29 November 2020 at 10:00 AM
Cancelled: Ocean Winter Market

Join us at Ocean Winter Market at Ashburton Arts Centre on November 28 & 29 and shop the new normal this Christmas!


Dec 2020

Flamenco Night
Friday 4 December 2020 at 7:30 PM
Flamenco Night

An exciting evening of flamenco comes to Ashburton; with the passionate dance, haunting song and rhythmic guitar of Southern Spain. Join us for a night of fire and emotion!


Riviera Ramblers: Sunday afternoon session
Sunday 6 December 2020 at 1:00 PM
Riviera Ramblers: Sunday afternoon session

The Riviera Ramblers is a local band of fine musicians. In October they came to the Arts Centre at the last minute, after their other gig was cancelled. It was a great session, and we decided to make it a monthly thing on the first Sunday afternoon of the month at 1pm.


Jonathan Gee Trio: CANCELLED
Sunday 6 December 2020 at 7:30 PM
Jonathan Gee Trio: CANCELLED

Brilliant pianist/singer Jonathan Gee brings his trio back to Ashburton on Sunday 6 December.


Torquay Rewilding Live: Paintings, Films, Music (Now on Sat 12 December)
Saturday 12 December 2020 at 2:30 PM
Torquay Rewilding Live: Paintings, Films, Music (Now on Sat 12 December)

In March of this year when we couldn’t meet each other, Rick Thorpe started painting East African animals in the Torquay landscape. Hugh Nankivell dreamt that he was walking with Rick seeing these wonderful beasts and wrote songs about these perambulations. They inspired each other to create a dozen new visual and sonic landscapes.


Mr Pickles presents: “You Just Can't Frighten Christmas Away” 4.30pm, 6pm, 6.30pm
Thursday 17 December 2020 at 6:00 PM
Mr Pickles presents: “You Just Can't Frighten Christmas Away” 4.30pm, 6pm, 6.30pm

Mr Pickles invites you to attend a very special socially-distanced and ‘covid-secure’ screening of the film plus extras, outtakes and surprises. Children’s Screening 4.30pm; General Screening 6pm and 6.30pm


The Invisible Opera Company of Tibet (now on Fri 18 December)
Friday 18 December 2020 at 7:30 PM
The Invisible Opera Company of Tibet (now on Fri 18 December)

The Invisible Opera Company of Tibet is a deepspace funk-punk psychedelic rock band infused with a hint of jazz and a twist of gnome.


Ways With Words Book Sale
Saturday 19 December 2020 at 11:00 AM
Ways With Words Book Sale

A great opportunity to grab some bargain books. Hardback – 3 for £20; Paperback – 3 for £10. You can also enjoy a glass of mulled wine or a cuppa of your choice.


Pocketwatch Theatre: Festive Folk Tales by Fairylights (4pm, 5pm & 6pm)
Saturday 19 December 2020 at 4:00 PM
Pocketwatch Theatre: Festive Folk Tales by Fairylights (4pm, 5pm & 6pm)

Two shows for all the family, with a mix of storytelling, music and songs all with a christmas/nature theme.


The Haldon String Quartet with Catherine Hamilton – Light in the Darkness
Saturday 19 December 2020 at 7:30 PM
The Haldon String Quartet with Catherine Hamilton – Light in the Darkness

Seasonal music to raise the spirit – Mozart’s Exsultate Jubilate, Corelli’s Christmas Concerto and others including some carols to hum along to. Soprano Catherine Hamilton joins the Haldon Quartet: Lindsay Braga & Steve Banks: violins; Andrew Gillett: viola; Rebecca Allnatt: cello


Postponed: Annika Skoogh and the Ashburton Arts All Stars – Soulstice #3
Sunday 20 December 2020 at 7:30 PM
Postponed: Annika Skoogh and the Ashburton Arts All Stars – Soulstice #3

Annika performed in the summer up in the field and was superb. She’ll be back with some of the area’s jazz talent in a night of great swinging songs, to set us up for whatever this Christmas will bring.


Postponed: Not Only But Also The Blues
Monday 28 December 2020 at 7:30 PM
Postponed: Not Only But Also The Blues

After a sell out night in October, the Blues is Back after Christmas.