Jan 2021
Experiencing Magic: What the Buddha might have to say in an age of lockdowns (online only)Thursday 7 January 2021 at 8:00 PM
Join our conjuror-in-residence,for a highly interactive, online event that uses magic to explore how we can live in challenging times by taking inspiration from the philosophy of the Buddha.
Annika Skoogh and the Ashburton Arts All Stars – Soulstice #3
Sunday 10 January 2021 at 7:30 PM
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.
Experiencing Magic: What the Buddha might have to say in an age of lockdowns (online only)
Sunday 17 January 2021 at 8:00 PM
Join our conjuror-in-residence,for a highly interactive, online event that uses magic to explore how we can live in challenging times by taking inspiration from the philosophy of the Buddha.
Feb 2021
Experiencing Magic: What the Buddha might have to say in an age of lockdowns (online only)Sunday 28 February 2021 at 8:00 PM
Join our conjuror-in-residence,for a highly interactive, online event that uses magic to explore how we can live in challenging times by taking inspiration from the philosophy of the Buddha.
Mar 2021
Ronnie Jones Trio with Andy Williamson (sax) – onlineSunday 7 March 2021 at 7:30 PM
Ronnie Jones: drums
Jesse Molins: guitar
Ron Phelan: double bass
Andy Williamson: saxophones
May 2021
Tinners Moon Festival 2021Monday 17 May 2021 - Monday 31 May 2021 at 12:00 AM
In anticipation of being allowed to reopen to audiences inside the Arts Centre on 17 May*, we’re planning the Tinners Moon Festival 2021, with two weeks of fabulous live music, magic, song, dance, words and plants!
Tinners Moon Opening Celebration with Sam Walker
Monday 17 May 2021 at 6:00 PM
Gather in and around the Forecourt for some live music, and a chance to see how the Arts Centre has changed.
Community Cabaret - Open Mic
Monday 17 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
On our opening day, the floor is open for anyone who’d like to perform a song, to anyone who wants to come along and watch.
Annika Skoogh & Ashburton Arts All Stars
Tuesday 18 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
The many-times-delayed Arts Centre Christmas bash from 2020. Featuring Steve Dow (guitar), Jim Rintoul (bass), Martin Jenkins (piano and organ), Andy Williamson (sax) and Josh Rose (drums).
Tom Adams
Wednesday 19 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
Defined both by a distinctive atmospheric approach to production and his unique falsetto vocals, Tom’s music has been described as being “just beautiful” by Mary Anne Hobbs of BBC6Music and “a wonderfully intimate, intensely emotive experience” by Clash Magazine.
Talk: Guy Shrubsole: Who Owns England?
Thursday 20 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
This talk will focus on who owns Dartmoor, rights of common and rights of access, and what scope there might be for rewilding within the National Park, by restoring some of Dartmoor’s lost temperate rainforests.
These Hills Are Ours: Daniel Bye & Boff Whalley
Friday 21 May 2021 at 5:00 PM
Dan and Boff plan are running from Devon North coast to the south, doing shows along the way. Starting on the quay at Hartland, they’ll perform in beauty spots, up hills, by waterfalls, in coves – and in front of the Arts Centre. [update: given the weather forecast, this performance will most likely now be inside the arts centre].
Moments of Pleasure Trio (Kate Bush Tribute)
Friday 21 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
The music of Kate Bush performed accurately and affectionately capturing the tone and emotion of Kate’s songs perfectly.
Tom Ollendorff Trio
Saturday 22 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
Known for his expansive technique, outstanding improvising and imaginative composition style, guitarist Tom Ollendorff has fast been building a reputation as one of the most exciting jazz guitarists in the UK.
Sam Fearon / Safiya Joscelyne & Craig Milverton / Maisie Waterhouse
Sunday 23 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
Some rising stars in the making from Ashburton. The music scene here is thriving with emerging talent!
Magical Engagements with Brian Rappert
Monday 24 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
Join our conjuror-in-residence for a brand new, highly interactive event that uses entertainment magic to explore themes of connection and estrangement. Brian is a Professor in Sociology at Exeter University. As part of that he has become interested in how magic can be used to speak to the human condition. Join us for a mixture of make-believe and philosophical inquiry.
Sarah McQuaid
Tuesday 25 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
A warm, charismatic stage presence, five critically acclaimed solo albums and a battery of instruments including acoustic and electric guitars, drum and piano = a one-woman powerhouse who defies categorisation.
Wren: Alice Smith / Angus Balbernie
Wednesday 26 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
A solo dance devised by Angus Balbernie and performed by Alice Smith. Wren takes from the old stories and songs of “cutty wren”, and from the poem “Half Hanged Mary” by Margaret Atwood and re-imagines them for 2021. This promises to be a beautiful, thought-provoking evening.
Ashburton Community Folk Orchestra
Thursday 27 May 2021 at 11:00 AM
The Ashburton Community Folk Orchestra, led by David Faulkner, is an open group and all musicians are welcome. He writes, “We will be celebrating spring and sharing our joy in making music & playing together. We play traditional music from Dartmoor and beyond.”
holding hands octet / Fowl
Thursday 27 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
The octet features some of the most exciting improvisers from around the UK. Their music mixes hymn-like and lush brass textures with post-minimalist vibraphone patterns, merged together with electronics by several members of the group. Fowl make pieces that involve words and music, sometimes these creations are songs.
James Kirby
Friday 28 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
Singer-Songwriter James Kirby has been touring worldwide over the last 15 years, captivating audiences of all ages with his mellow voice and unique style of guitar playing, he is not to be missed!
Toby Strong : talk / films
Friday 28 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
The Platform Cinema group presents this wildlife filmmaker, famous for his work with David Attenborough and the recent BBC Alaska series.
Postponed: Lyric Trio: Bach ~ Kodály ~ Purcell
Saturday 29 May 2021 at 12:00 PM
Led by Patricia Calnan (Violin, ex Academy of St Martins in the Fields), with George Robertson (Viola) and Vicky Evans (Cello) this superb chamber group plays music by JS Bach, Zoltán Kodály and Henry Purcell. This concert starts at 12 noon, and lasts around an hour with no interval.
Attila the Stockbroker & TV Smith
Saturday 29 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
Two original punk legends team up for one of their first post lockdown gigs – perhaps the very first of all – both desperate to get out gigging again and both with brand new releases on the go.
Riviera Ramblers
Sunday 30 May 2021 at 1:00 PM
An excellent sextet playing the sounds of the Swing era of the 1930s and 40s. The front line brass and reeds blend with empathy and energy, buoyed by a pulsating rhythm section that adds echoes of Parisian “manouche / gypsy” jazz of the Hot Club of France. These regulars play at Ashburton Arts Centre on the first Sunday afternoon of every month.
Kitty Macfarlane
Sunday 30 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
Kitty Macfarlane is a songwriter and guitarist from Somerset, whose music is rich with visual imagery and written with an eco-eye.
Not Only But Also The Blues: Vince Lee, Russell Sinclair, Black Cat Bone
Monday 31 May 2021 at 7:30 PM
The spectacular Vince Lee’s Big Combo, Russell Sinclair & the Smokin’ Locos with the house band Black Cat Bone featuring legendary Bill Birks! A triple bill of the finest to round off the festival in style.
Jun 2021
West Street Words: Matt Harvey, Liv Torc, Jackie JunoSaturday 5 June 2021 at 7:30 PM
There will be music, joy, laughter, perhaps an edge of seriousness, and almost certainly some silliness as we gather together with Matt Harvey, Jackie Juno, Liv Torc and more at the Ashburton Arts Centre.
Riviera Ramblers
Sunday 6 June 2021 at 1:00 PM
This is a swinging sextet whose “Le jazz hot” has attracted a lot of attention from audiences and dancers throughout the South-West and beyond.
Bruno Heinen Trio
Monday 7 June 2021 at 7:30 PM
Bruno Heinen Trio features Andrea Di Biase on bass (Kenny Wheeler), and acclaimed U.S drummer Gene Calderazzo (Pharoah Sanders).
Magical Engagements with Brian Rappert (postponed to Sunday 27 June)
Thursday 10 June 2021 at 7:30 PM
Join our conjuror-in-residence for a brand new, highly interactive event that uses entertainment magic to explore themes of connection and estrangement.
Little Big Festival launch
Sunday 13 June 2021 at 12:00 PM
Ashburton Arts Centre is delighted to support this fabulous little festival! We share the Little Big’s delight in bringing esoteric wonderful performers from far and wide to this lovely corner of South Devon.
Skedaddle
Saturday 19 June 2021 at 7:30 PM
Skedaddle take their inspiration from New Orleans jazz bands of old, as well as gypsy jazz legends and some klezmer and eastern european influences. A delightful mix of laid back jazz and rip-roaring stomping tunes to warm the soul. Dress to impress, 1920’s speakeasy/Peaky Blinders-inspired glad rags.
Yusuf Cat Stevens – performed by Keith James
Sunday 20 June 2021 at 7:30 PM
Keith James is back, after his performances of the songs of Leonard Cohen, and later Nick Drake with his show dedicated to the music and life of Yusuf Cat Stevens.
Kindred Souls Music
Monday 21 June 2021 at 7:30 PM
Kindred Souls Music is a celebration of music as the universal language of the heart. Six musicians creating unique instrumental combinations and voices playing original songs and music, as well as traditional music from Japan, Africa and the Middle East.
Ed Jones with the Keith Michael Trio
Thursday 24 June 2021 at 7:30 PM
Award winning jazz saxophonist and composer Ed Jones, joins the Keith Michael Trio for a hard swinging and grooving tour of the south-west. One of the finest tenor sax players in the UK – this will be a great night of live jazz.
Platform Cinema: Woman at War (12)
Friday 25 June 2021 at 7:30 PM
Halla is a 50 year old independent woman. She leads a double life as a passionate environmental activist. Secretly, she wages a one woman war against the aluminium industry. Right as she plans her biggest and boldest operation, Halla receives an unexpected letter which changes everything.
Lord God (a musical comedy by Philip Reeve and Brian Mitchell)
Saturday 26 June 2021 at 7:30 PM
When the Lord God is persuaded by His retainer and chief-cook-and-bottle-washer Gabriel to take an incognito holiday in a Devonshire seaside hotel (largely to get Him out from under His angels’ feet), He didn’t expect supernatural scrapes, japes and narrow escapes and the invention of a hot new global dance craze.
Lord God (a musical comedy by Philip Reeve and Brian Mitchell)
Sunday 27 June 2021 at 3:00 PM
When the Lord God is persuaded by His retainer and chief-cook-and-bottle-washer Gabriel to take an incognito holiday in a Devonshire seaside hotel (largely to get Him out from under His angels’ feet), He didn’t expect supernatural scrapes, japes and narrow escapes and the invention of a hot new global dance craze.
Magical Engagements with Brian Rappert
Sunday 27 June 2021 at 7:30 PM
Join our conjuror-in-residence for a brand new, highly interactive event that uses entertainment magic to explore themes of connection and estrangement.
Not Only But Also The Blues: In a Bit of a State • Steve Dow & Jim Rintoul •
Monday 28 June 2021 at 7:30 PM
Another great blues lineup: In a Bit of a State (Rob Brown, Lucy Piper, Adam Sweet and Ian Jennings);
Steve Dow and Jim Rintoul; Jam Session with Rhythm Doctors
Jul 2021
Postponed: Love Music Hate Racism AshburtonSaturday 3 July 2021 at 7:00 PM
Sadly this event has been postponed until the organisers can be sure that the Covid restrictions on being able to dance to DJs inside the venue will no longer apply.
Riviera Ramblers
Sunday 4 July 2021 at 1:00 PM
This is a swinging sextet whose “Le jazz hot” has attracted a lot of attention from audiences and dancers throughout the South-West and beyond.
Ian Shaw
Sunday 4 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
One of the most distinctive, original and creative jazz singers that the UK has produced, Ian Shaw is also a talented pianist, songwriter, actor, presenter and record producer. “One of the giants of British jazz… not only a wonderful singer and songwriter but an ambassador for jazz… an essential part of the scene.” Jamie Cullum
La Vie En Rose
Saturday 10 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
This superb gypsy jazz and hot swing band has a well-earned reputation for its take on the Hot Club style. Toe-tapping rhythms and soaring melodies combine in a virtuoso performance of gypsy favourites, jazz standards, soulful ballads and Latin swing, all played with the verve and joy that is the heart of this music.
Carolyn Hume & Paul May (with Andy Williamson)
Sunday 11 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
“… a beguiling soundscape whose delicate shifts of mood and texture are simple but extraordinarily effective.” Phil Johnson, The Independent.
If England reaches the final of Euro2020, this concert will happen at 5pm, and the match may be shown on the big screen in the Arts Centre.
Ashburton Chamber Music Festival 2021 • 17 – 25 July
Saturday 17 July 2021 at 12:00 AM
The second Ashburton Chamber Music Festival (ACMF) welcomes back some familiar faces in David Yang, Sara Trickey, JudithHall and Tom Vignieri, plus new guests violinist Miriam Teppich and cellist Sébastien van Duijk, with events in the Arts Centre, plus Bremridge, Buckfastleigh, Widecombe-in-the-Moor and elsewhere in Ashburton. We have a stunning programme of concerts plus the unique Hausmusik events. Do click the link above for more…
Lunatraktors and Seren the Heron
Saturday 17 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
Influenced by flamenco, post-punk and trip hop, this is folk-as-you’ve-never-heard-it-before! A ‘broken folk’ sound strips trad folk back to rhythm and voice. The pair turned heads in 2019 when their DIY debut This Is Broken Folk – recorded live in a viaduct arch by Ramsgate harbour – made it onto MOJO Magazine’s Top Ten Folk Albums.
ACMF: Concert Number 1
Sunday 18 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
A playful programme, with the divine French impressionism of Honegger and Debussy followed by Kurtág’s minimalism – a great opener to this festival feast of musical delight!
ACMF: Hausmusik Number 1
Monday 19 July 2021 at 7:00 PM
The first of three informal concerts in beautiful locations, where the musicians will sight-read music selected by the audience. From a pile of music, the audience will choose pieces, and the musicians will sight-read them, right there in front of everyone: no rehearsal!
ACMF: Family Concert
Tuesday 20 July 2021 at 6:00 PM
With short sweet nuggets the musicians will engage their young audience with humour and story.
ACMF: Hausmusik Number 2
Wednesday 21 July 2021 at 7:00 PM
The second of three informal concerts in beautiful locations, where the musicians will sight-read music selected by the audience. This is a wonderful garden ‘room’ with four walls and no roof. Beyond is a lovely wild garden, containing a stone circle. A favourite from 2019’s Hausmusik concerts.
ACMF: Ashburton Folk Orchestra and the ACMF musicians
Thursday 22 July 2021 at 11:30 AM
Every Thursday morning, the Ashburton Folk Orchestra meets at the Arts Centre. This week, the festival musicians and the folk orchestra will play here together in an entertaining bit of communal music making.
ACMF: Hausmusik Number 3
Thursday 22 July 2021 at 7:00 PM
The last of three informal concerts in beautiful locations, where the musicians will sight-read music selected by the audience. This beautiful setting, nestled among the Dartmoor fields includes gardens, fields, barns, an art gallery and outdoor beds made from fallen eucalyptus trees. It’s a magical place.
ACMF: Concert Number 2
Friday 23 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
Two wonderfully exciting 20th century pieces, alongside Haydn’s classical work from 200 years earlier.
ACMF: Concert Number 3
Saturday 24 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
Another great mix of pieces, featuring the second instalment of our commission. This year, God Only Knows from Pet Sounds by the Beach Boys receives the Tom Vignieri treatment.
ACMF: Concert Number 4: the Best of the Fest!
Sunday 25 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
In this concert we’ll hear a selection of favourites from the festival. It’s a mystery tour full of lovely things, to be decided on the day.
Not Only But Also The Blues: Diving for Pearls; The Railroad Trio; Rhythm Doctors
Monday 26 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
Diving for Pearls (an explosive and inventive six-piece band) plus Railroad Trio and Rhythm Doctors with special guest Tim Watkins.
Joanna Eden & Andrés Lafone
Wednesday 28 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
Celebrating 50 Years since Joni Mitchell released the album Blue, with several of Joni’s songs, plus some of her exquisite originals, and songs by James Taylor & Carole King.
Dominic Ingham Quartet
Thursday 29 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
Dominic Ingham combines violin techniques from his folk and classical background in a unique way. His quartet features Jonny Mansfield (2018 Kenny Wheeler Jazz Prize winner) on vibraphone, Will Sach on Bass and Luca Caruso on drums.
Platform Cinema: Minari (12A)
Friday 30 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
A Korean-American family moves to Arkansas in search of their own American Dream. With the arrival of their sly, foul-mouthed, but incredibly loving grandmother, the stability of their relationships is challenged even more in this new life in the rugged Ozarks, testing the undeniable resilience of family and what really makes a home.
Flamenco de Verano
Saturday 31 July 2021 at 7:30 PM
With the passionate dance, haunting song and rhythmic guitar of Southern Spain’s famous flamenco, the evening will be filled with fire and emotion. Dance from Karina Gracia, song and percussion from Jaime Cantera and guitar from David Nash. End of term dances from Karina’s flamenco groups and hopefully a special guest too!
Aug 2021
Riviera RamblersSunday 1 August 2021 at 1:00 PM
A regular monthly event: This is a swinging sextet whose “Le jazz hot” has attracted a lot of attention from audiences and dancers throughout the South-West and beyond.
OK Aurora
Monday 2 August 2021 at 7:30 PM
This band takes its inspiration from artists such as Steely Dan and Becca Stevens, creating a fusion of contemporary jazz and popular music.
They were superb here in October 2020
– Lush horn section – Not to be missed!
Moscow Drug Club
Friday 6 August 2021 at 7:30 PM
Combining their original material with songs by the likes of Jaques Brel, Leonard Cohen, Tom Waits & Eartha Kitt, Moscow Drug Club provide an intoxicating & intimate musical experience.
Sea Shanty Workshop
Thursday 12 August 2021 at 2:30 PM
All are welcome to come and sing a few shanties. It’ll be led by Nicola Harrison and members of Brixham’s Missin’ Tackle crew. All ages and abilities welcomed.
One Night In Alices: The Wattingers & Doghouse
Friday 13 August 2021 at 7:30 PM
This is the debut night of what could become regular events. It’s a mini extension of the grassroots festival Alice’s Wicked Tea Party that is held in Dorset. These will be themed events and we like to encourage you to dress up and have fun as we bring to you some of the best bands and performers from across the country.
The Bridge
Saturday 14 August 2021 at 7:30 PM
The Bridge is a Totnes-based six-piece band playing original songs, ranging from up-tempo funk to soulful ballads, with blues, reggae and rock in between. They recently performed a very well-received set at one of the Lawn sessions at Dartington.
Spirit of Woodstock: Jonathan Brown (Sat 21/8 at 7pm and Sun 22/8 at 3pm)
Saturday 21 August 2021 at 7:00 PM
Over two wild and immersive hours, this is a thought-provoking, poignant, dynamic, and semi-immersive theatre collage of the worlds and era that surrounded the “Mother of Free Festivals” inspired by the ethos of the hippie, counterculture, and free-festival movements.
Comedy Soirée Ashburton
Thursday 26 August 2021 at 7:30 PM
A new night at the beautiful Ashburton arts centre is looking to make 2020, the year of no laughs, a long and distant memory. Appearing will be: Suzy Bennett, Richard James and David Arnold with Christian Russell-Pollock (MC). Hosted by ‘The Soirée Crew’.
Platform Cinema: Wadjda (PG)
Friday 27 August 2021 at 7:30 PM
Wadjda is a 10-year-old girl living in a suburb of Riyadh. When she sees a beautiful green bicycle for sale, she wants it desperately. But Wadjda’s mother won’t allow it, fearing repercussions from a society that sees bicycles as dangerous to a girl’s virtue. So Wadjda decides to try and raise the money herself…
Diz 'Honeybear' Watson's New Orleans Party
Saturday 28 August 2021 at 7:30 PM
Ace Records Artist Diz ‘Honeybear’ Watson, piano player, singer and entertainer, is a quintessential exponent of New Orleans style piano, and exuberant mix of Barrelhouse, Rhythm and Blues, Rock n Roll, and Boogie Woogie. Accompanying Diz on most of his solo projects is the Jamaican legend Tony ‘Groco’ Uter on conga drums, just a mere 87 years old!
Philip Hull Celebration Concert
Sunday 29 August 2021 at 7:30 PM
On 29 August 2020, we lost a wonderful man who was one of the greatest supporters of live music here at the Arts Centre. Philip Hull (right), Head of Music for many years at Plymouth University until his retirement, came to most of our concerts, especially the more esoteric jazz ones! Do join us for this celebration in his memory.
Not Only But Also The Blues: Joanna Cooke - Bad Knees Blue Band - Rhythm Doctors
Monday 30 August 2021 at 7:30 PM
This months NOBATB session features the superb singer Joanna Cooke, based in Plymouth but getting attention from around the globe. Plus the ultra local Bad Knees Blues Band and the resident Rhythm Doctors.
Sep 2021
Riviera RamblersSunday 5 September 2021 at 1:00 PM
A regular monthly event: This is a swinging sextet whose “Le jazz hot” has attracted a lot of attention from audiences and dancers throughout the South-West and beyond.
Lukas Oravec & Alex Garnett Quintet
Sunday 5 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
Lukas Oravec is a world-renowned, phenomenal trumpet player from Slovakia. “Lukas Oravec is a wonderful young trumpet player who plays and writes with a lot of fire and creativity. His music has a distinctive sound as does his playing. He and the musicians Lukas surrounds himself with are a force to be reckoned with”.
Big Picture Politics: Democracy And The Making Of The Modern World
Tuesday 7 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
On Tues 7 September 2021, we begin a series of discussions led by distinguished academic Joe Foweraker. Each week we will address a BIG question that may serve to provide an initial direction for the conversation.
Devon Open Studios: Miranda Day
Saturday 11 September 2021 - Sunday 26 September 2021 at 10:00 AM
Collage | Mixed Media | Painting. Joyful, uplifting art – characters, birds and animals. Miranda’s work is often described as ‘making you smile’. Open 10-5.
Lyric Trio: music by Bach, Purcell & Kodály
Saturday 11 September 2021 at 3:00 PM
We are delighted, and very lucky to be welcoming musicians with such amazing experience to Ashburton Arts Centre for this short chamber music concert: Henry Purcell’s Fantasias, a beautiful Hungarian serenade by Zoltan Kodály, and the giant of giants, Johann Sebastian Bach.
Graham Burchell Celebration (Poetry Teignmouth)
Sunday 12 September 2021 at 2:30 PM
Poetry Teignmouth invites you to a celebration of the life, poetry and art of Graham Burchell. Graham held a very special place in the heart of the UK poetry community – please join us to celebrate his important presence on the poetry scene here in the Southwest.
Ian Shaw
Sunday 12 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
One of the most distinctive, original and creative jazz singers that the UK has produced, Ian Shaw is also a talented pianist, songwriter, actor, presenter and record producer. “One of the giants of British jazz… not only a wonderful singer and songwriter but an ambassador for jazz… an essential part of the scene.” Jamie Cullum
Brass Monkeys (Octet)
Monday 13 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
The Brass Monkeys are an eclectic improvising wild bunch influenced by jazz, blues, reggae, country, free improvisation, soul, folk…
Forecourt Session: Clare Woodburn
Wednesday 15 September 2021 at 2:30 PM
The first Forecourt Session with singer/songwriter Clare Woodburn. This is a bit of an experiment – do come along and see what it’s like.
Samba Azul: cancelled due to covid
Wednesday 15 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
This performance is cancelled – one of the band members has tested positive for Covid. We’ll rearrange as soon as possible.
Devon Afrobeat Collective
Saturday 18 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
This fabulous 14-piece ensemble will playing our final (currently planned) outdoor gig of the year up in the beautiful field.
Cancelled: Simon Spillett & Ronnie Jones Trio (though 2 other local dates available)
Sunday 19 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
Described by the late Humphrey Lyttelton as “formidable,” Simon Spillett is among the very top flight of current British jazz saxophonists. “Straight-ahead, high energy jazz is his line and he does it with aplomb” – The Guardian
Big Picture Politics: Democracy And The Making Of The Modern World
Tuesday 21 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
The second in a series of discussions led by distinguished academic Joe Foweraker. Each week we will address a BIG question that may serve to provide an initial direction for the conversation.
Steve Turner
Wednesday 22 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
Steve Turner is known as a pioneer of highly sophisticated English concertina song accompaniments, stretching the boundaries of traditional forms, with one of the best voices in the business. He is a multi-instrumentalist, who also accompanies himself on the cittern, and plays mandolin and banjo.
CANCELLED: Platform Cinema: The Teachers' Protest (PG)
Friday 24 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
1942. Occupied Norway. Teachers must join the Nazi Teachers’ League and teach Nazi ideas in their classrooms. When they refuse, the Nazi government arrests 1000 male teachers and sends them to prison camps, 300 miles above the Arctic Circle. The education system is in chaos and now the battle begins. Introduced by the Director, followed by a Q&A.
Kali Juga Jive (CANCELLED)
Saturday 25 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
This event has had to be cancelled due to COVID.
Nick Harper
Sunday 26 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
Nick Harper is one the UK’s best kept musical secrets. Those who have witnessed the spellbinding, one-man show will tell you this. For over two decades, he has been dazzling audiences, reviewers & fellow artists alike with his heady mix of virtuosity, boyish charm, showmanship & sheer bravado.
Not Only But Also The Blues: Railroad, Lee Hall, Rhythm Doctors
Monday 27 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
This months NOBATB session features the Railroad Blues Band, Red Shed, and the resident Rhythm Doctors.
Steve Banks Quintet
Wednesday 29 September 2021 at 7:30 PM
Guitarist Steve Banks presents his original compositions with a quintet comprising musicians from the forefront of UK jazz. Deep contemporary grooves, Brazilian and swing influences, lush harmonies and memorable melodic hooks create rich, dynamic musical landscapes redolent of The Impossible Gentlemen, Maria Schneider, Fred Hersch and Bill Frisell.
Oct 2021
This Ragged Edge book launch - A Winter Journey into Devon's Wild Coast.Friday 1 October 2021 at 6:00 PM
This Ragged Edge is the story of a journey by three artists and friends between Salcombe and Dartmouth in 2018. Seeking out secluded coves, shipwrecks and wind ravaged headlands they end up walking through the heart of an Arctic storm. Join the authors, Jamie Grant, Marcus Gladstone-Noble and James Richardson as they launch their book that celebrates Devon’s incredible coastline and gives a unique perspective on its many moods.
Two Moors Festival: Late Night Jazz - Nishla Smith and Tom Harris
Saturday 2 October 2021 at 9:00 PM
Nishla Smith is a singer and writer driven by a desire to tell stories and was recently a winner at the International Song-writing Competition (Jazz category). Tom Harris is a Mancunian pianist, improviser and composer, most heavily influenced by Black American music.
Riviera Ramblers
Sunday 3 October 2021 at 1:00 PM
A regular monthly event: This is a swinging sextet whose “Le jazz hot” has attracted a lot of attention from audiences and dancers throughout the South-West and beyond.
Matthew Gest’s Boogie Troop
Sunday 3 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
Matthew Gest and his high-energy trio let fly through a set of piano-rattling boogies, rags, blues classics and some good-time rock and roll. A Rockin’, Swinging, Virtuosic, Dynamic and Unstoppably Groovy exploration of the art of Boogie Woogie!
Big Picture Politics: Democracy And The Making Of The Modern World
Tuesday 5 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
The third in a series of discussions led by distinguished academic Joe Foweraker. Each week we will address a BIG question that may serve to provide an initial direction for the conversation.
Dom Martin
Tuesday 5 October 2021 - Friday 8 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
Dom Martin is a Belfast born multi award winning singer/songwriter, inspired but not constrained by the blues. In 2019 he burst onto the UK and European music scene with a unique guitar style and voice, captivating audiences everywhere.
Day • Evans • Dale
Friday 8 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
Poet, Steve Day performs with Peter Evans on electric violin and Julian Dale on double bass. Expect your thoughts to be provoked, and your musical horizons expanded!
The Becoming: Stories and songs of the sea
Sunday 10 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
All new music, an extraordinary percussive soundscape and poetic storytelling are woven with strange sea creatures and mythological oceanic journeys. Selkies sing of love, mermaids swim vast distances to ‘become’ who they truly are, while crabs dance and starfish sing of outer space. Full of evocative sounds, sensations, moods. Longing, joy and tremendous destructive power.
Long For The Coast with Dan Whitehouse
Friday 15 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
Honest, endearing, and fiercely hopeful, Totnes-via-Bristol-based indie-folk duo Long For The Coast believes that music is community; they sing stories about social change, and close friends lost and found.
The Scribes
Saturday 16 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
The Scribes are a multi award winning hip hop three piece whose unique blend of beatboxing, off the cuff freestyling and genre-spanning music has created a critically acclaimed live show quite unlike any other on the scene today, with appeal ranging far beyond traditional hip hop fare. NB – this was originally listed for 9 October. It’s now happening on Saturday 16 October.
Big Picture Politics: Democracy And The Making Of The Modern World
Tuesday 19 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
The fourth in a series of discussions led by distinguished academic Joe Foweraker. Each week we will address a BIG question that may serve to provide an initial direction for the conversation.
Vera van Heeringen & Charlotte Carrivick (was Midnight Skyracer)
Saturday 23 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
This Anglo-Irish quintet boasts powerhouse vocals and driving mandolin, virtuoso banjo playing and delicate vocal, rock solid bass grooves, fiddle and dobro, and lightning guitar playing. Not only are they all masters of their respective instruments, but the vocal harmonies shared between the five women are second to none.The band’s first appearance at Ashburton Arts Centre in April 2019 was a packed house who went home very happy indeed – so book early for this one!
Ashburton Arts Improvisation Group
Sunday 24 October 2021 at 11:00 AM
From 11am – 1pm, it’s the first gathering of anyone who would like to help form an improvising group based at the Arts Centre. Open to instrumentalists, vocalists and people who improvise with their bodies. Just turn up if you’re curious and see whether it’s for you.
Jason Kahn
Sunday 24 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
Kahn’s work with electronics involves chaotic feedback systems and placing his body in the circuit flow. Live radio captures during the concert and recordings made in the performance space and its environs provide further working material for each concert.
Not Only But Also The Blues: Slightly Blue, Hotheadz, Rhythm Doctors
Monday 25 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
Slightly Blue: classics from Sonny Boy Williamson and Muddy Waters with some Bluegrass and ballads. Hotheadz: inspired by Dr Feelgood, Nine Below Zero, Eddie and the Hot Rods and Ian Dury, these veterans of the punk era love high-energy blues. Then a jam session with the Rhythm Doctors: this month unplugged and drumless to be neighbourhood-friendly in these Covid days of having to keep the windows open.
A.C.E. Pre COP26 Eco Film Fest (3 films)
Wednesday 27 October 2021 at 4:00 PM
Climate crisis… COP26 Conference… Uncertain future… Don’t worry – be inspired instead! Come along to our Pop Up Eco-Film Fest. These three great films will inform and amaze you. Come to one – or any two – or all three! Free
4.15 -5.40 Kiss the Ground
6.15 -7.45 2040
8.15-9.15 The People versus Climate Change
Talk: Monty Halls
Thursday 28 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
Join Monty as he travels all around the world, seeking out the most incredible wildlife encounters above and below the waves. This talk will immerse you in all that is wild & adventurous and will, no doubt, set that wanderlust into action.
Platform Cinema: The Drifters (12)
Friday 29 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
A love story about identity and place in a post Brexit Europe. Koffee, an African migrant, and Fanny, a French Waitress are two lost souls who attempt to find home in one another and escape the labels that inevitably leave them homeless. Filmed in Teignmouth & London.
Earl Okin
Sunday 31 October 2021 at 7:30 PM
Earl Okin is now a legendary crooner/comedian in that ‘cult’ bracket of musicians who each generation (re)discovers. “I never tire of watching him perfom – he’s always amazing.”
Nov 2021
Henrik Jensen’s ‘Followed By Thirteen’Monday 1 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
Henrik Jensen – double bass, Esben Tjalve – piano, and Mark Whitlam – drums. Followed By Thirteen is an ensemble of musicians at the top of their game and who deeply respect each others individual merits and sensitively represent each part.
Kate Westbrook and The Granite Band
Friday 5 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
Kate Westbrook acknowledges no musical boundaries. Her distinctive, theatrically charged vocal style has won her an international reputation, ‘a voice for winter, exile, anger; but also for love and prophesy’ (Jazzwise).
Jonathan Gee Trio
Saturday 6 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
For this mini tour of Devon with Marcus Vergette on bass and Andy Trim on drums, Jonathan will be playing the music of Keith Jarrett and Stevie Wonder and some lockdown-inspired songs like Don’t Get Around Much Anymore, The Nearness of You and Don’t Stand So Close To Me.
Riviera Ramblers
Sunday 7 November 2021 at 1:00 PM
A regular monthly event: This is a swinging sextet whose “Le jazz hot” has attracted a lot of attention from audiences and dancers throughout the South-West and beyond.
Orpheus with Annika Skoogh
Thursday 11 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
A truly unique and authentic Latin extravaganza ready to transport you straight to Brazil!
Mama Tokus: The Get Together
Saturday 13 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
The Get-Together: It’s more than a gig – it’s a joyful experience where YOU get to join in on the songs and the action. It features singalong soul music, feelgood tunes you’ll be familiar with and an optimistic vibe that will stay with you long after the show’s over.
Rob Carney
Sunday 14 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
An intimate evening of original songs and harmony singing by local singer-songwriter/choir leader Rob Carney, supported by singers from Glorious Chorus.
Big Picture Politics: Democracy And The Making Of The Modern World
Tuesday 16 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
The series of discussions led by distinguished academic Joe Foweraker continues. Each week we will address a BIG question that may serve to provide an initial direction for the conversation.
Catfish Keith
Thursday 18 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
World-touring acoustic blues pioneer CATFISH KEITH has established himself as one of the most exciting country blues performers of our time. Catfish’s innovative style of foot-stomping, deep delta blues and American roots music has spellbound audiences the world over.
The Ciderhouse Rebellion
Friday 19 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
The duo brings together master accordionist Murray Grainger and fiddle player Adam Summerhayes. The pair play some traditional tunes, particularly from the NE of England, and compose their own music, specialising in creating within the moment so each performance is uniquely magical in its improvisatory focus.
Mik Artistik’s Ego Trip
Saturday 20 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
Delightful, frightening, strange and hysterically funny, this is a truly special festival band whose live shows are legendary.
Waltz! A classical octet, fundraising for Refugees
Sunday 21 November 2021 at 3:00 PM
A magical hour of Strauss waltzes, elegantly arranged for string quartet, piano, harmonium, flute & clarinet. All proceeds to The British Red Cross supporting refugees across the South West.
Postponed: West St Words Cabaret, Matt Harvey, Elvis McGonagall
Sunday 21 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
Postponed until the new year, when it will be part of a new monthly series of cabaret and wordy events at the Arts Centre.
Andy Panayi with the Tom Ball Trio
Monday 22 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
One of the UK’s top sax and flute players joins pianist Tom Ball, Kevin Sanders on Bass and Coach York on drums for a night of great jazz.
Talk: Sean Hellman - Seeing the wood for the trees
Thursday 25 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
Craftsman Sean Hellman is renowned widely for his skills in green woodwork and runs an artisan-led production business, on the edge of Dartmoor, Devon, UK.
Platform Cinema: Nomadland (12A)
Friday 26 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
Frances McDormand illuminates Chloé Zhao’s humane and lyrical film about people living on the road in the American West, based on Jessica Bruder’s eponymous book.
Torbay Symphony Orchestra: Wagner, Tchaikovsky and Schumann
Saturday 27 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
TSO is back for its first series of concerts after lockdown with a stunning programme of beautiful music. Absolutely gorgeous music full of beautiful melodies, lush orchestration and an uplifting Finale that will send you home with a smile.
An Evening with Max ZT (House of Waters) and Dan Whitehouse
Sunday 28 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
“Force of nature”, from the USA, Brooklyn’s Max ZT, is an innovator of his instrument. His unorthodox playing and bold experimental style have led him to be described as the “Jimi Hendrix of hammered dulcimer” (NPR). This, his first solo UK tour, sees him pushing the boundaries even further as he embraces the spoken word, soulful singing, and “lyrics that avert your gaze to the sky” (BBC Radio 6) of award-winning Black Country singer-songwriter Dan Whitehouse.
Not Only But Also The Blues: Rush Hour, Adam Sweet band, Rhythm Doctors
Monday 29 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
Our monthly blues event, ending on a jam session with the Rhythm Doctors: this month unplugged and drumless to be neighbourhood-friendly in these Covid days of having to keep the windows open.
Big Picture Politics: Democracy And The Making Of The Modern World
Tuesday 30 November 2021 at 7:30 PM
The penultimate session in a series of discussions led by distinguished academic Joe Foweraker. Each week we will address a BIG question that may serve to provide an initial direction for the conversation.