All Events
September
Event Details
Three artists – Barbara Davis, Dick Hewitson and Joan Scott – whose individual styles complement each other, creating an exciting mix of work.Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Event Details
Three artists – Barbara Davis, Dick Hewitson and Joan Scott – whose individual styles complement each other, creating an exciting mix of work.
Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Location
Gallery
11 Bell Street Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
Event Details
The Dashwood sisters face financial hardship and uncertain futures after their father’s death.As they navigate love, heartbreak, and societal expectations, Elinor embodies restraint and logic, while Marianne follows her
Event Details
The Dashwood sisters face financial hardship and uncertain futures after their father’s death.
As they navigate love, heartbreak, and societal expectations, Elinor embodies restraint and logic, while Marianne follows her passionate impulses. Their contrasting approaches to life and romance ultimately lead each to find happiness in unexpected ways.
Joins us for the 30th anniversary of this much-loved film.
Director: Ang Lee
Featuring: Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Kate Winslet, Hugh Grant
Details: UK/USA | Language: English | 1995 | 2h 16m
Showings:
Tuesday 2nd September – 2pm Matinée
Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.
Tickets: £5.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1289817
Event Details
Mismatched cousins David (Jesse Eisenberg) and Benji (Kieran Culkin) reunite for a tour through Poland to honour their beloved grandmother.Their dream is shattered as they encounter unrelenting animosity from
Event Details
Mismatched cousins David (Jesse Eisenberg) and Benji (Kieran Culkin) reunite for a tour through Poland to honour their beloved grandmother.
Their dream is shattered as they encounter unrelenting animosity from the local villagers. Award-winning tense thriller inspired by a true story.
But their adventure takes a dark turn when the odd couple’s old tensions resurface against the backdrop of their family history.
“An effortlessly witty, fluent and astringent comedy with a very serious overcurrent” – Peter Bradshaw, Guardian
Director: Jesse Eisenberg
Featuring: Jesse Eisenberg, Kieran Culkin, Will Sharpe, Jennifer Grey
Details: Poland/USA | Language: English | 2024 | 1h 30m
Tickets: £7.50. Members & Friends £6.50. U18s £5.50. Film Society members free.
See here for details of Film Society membership.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285573
Event Details
Join our Music & Drama Group as part of their ‘MAD’ About Drama series with a basic stage combat workshop. MC Combat will be running a 2 hour
Event Details
Join our Music & Drama Group as part of their ‘MAD’ About Drama series with a basic stage combat workshop.
MC Combat will be running a 2 hour workshop that explores basic techniques of unarmed stage combat. Choreography, technique and character development will also be explored as part of this session. A chance to try something new whilst meeting friends, both old and new.
Please wear trousers and sensible flat shoes designed for moving. Age 13+
Cost: £10.
Location
Phoenix Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1244718
Event Details
On a far away planet, two families always avoid each other. The Smeds, who are red, never ever mix with The Smoos who are blue.So when a chance encounter
Event Details
On a far away planet, two families always avoid each other. The Smeds, who are red, never ever mix with The Smoos who are blue.
So when a chance encounter allows young Janet, who’s a Smed, to become friends with Bill, a young Smoo, their families immediately try to stop it. But Janet and Bill miss each other and sneak out to meet up secretly. As they grow up, they fall in love but when they find out their families could not be more horrified.
Desperate, Janet and Bill sneak away to escape in the Smed’s red rocket to explore the universe alone together. Realising they’ve lost their children, Grandmother Smoo and Grandpa Smed have to travel together across the universe in the Smoo’s rocket to try to find the young couple.
Can the two clans discover how to get along?
Director: Daniel Snaddon, Samantha Cutler
Featuring: Sally Hawkins, Ashna Rabheru, Daniel Ezra, Adjoa Andoh, Bill Bailey
Details: UK | Language: English | 2022 | 26m
Showings:
Saturday 6th September – 11am
Tickets: £3.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1284934
Event Details
The profound true story of husband and wife, Raynor and Moth Winn’s 630-mile trek along the beautiful but rugged Cornish, Devon and Dorset coastline.After being forcibly removed from their
Event Details
The profound true story of husband and wife, Raynor and Moth Winn’s 630-mile trek along the beautiful but rugged Cornish, Devon and Dorset coastline.
After being forcibly removed from their home, they make the desperate decision to walk in the hope that, in nature, they will find solace and a sense of acceptance. With depleted resources, only a tent and some essentials between them, every step along the path is a testament to their growing strength and determination. A portrayal of home, how it can be lost and rediscovered in the most unexpected ways.
Director: Marianne Elliott
Featuring: Gillian Anderson, Jason Isaacs
Details: UK | Language: English | 2025 | 1h 55m
Showings:
Tuesday 9th September – 2pm Matinée
Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.
Wednesday 10th September – 7.30pm
Tickets: From £5.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1289450
Event Details
Art exhibition by Dorset Romantics.Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Event Details
Art exhibition by Dorset Romantics.
Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Location
Gallery
11 Bell Street Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
Event Details
The profound true story of husband and wife, Raynor and Moth Winn’s 630-mile trek along the beautiful but rugged Cornish, Devon and Dorset coastline.After being forcibly removed from their
Event Details
The profound true story of husband and wife, Raynor and Moth Winn’s 630-mile trek along the beautiful but rugged Cornish, Devon and Dorset coastline.
After being forcibly removed from their home, they make the desperate decision to walk in the hope that, in nature, they will find solace and a sense of acceptance. With depleted resources, only a tent and some essentials between them, every step along the path is a testament to their growing strength and determination. A portrayal of home, how it can be lost and rediscovered in the most unexpected ways.
Director: Marianne Elliott
Featuring: Gillian Anderson, Jason Isaacs
Details: UK | Language: English | 2025 | 1h 55m
Showings:
Tuesday 9th September – 2pm Matinée
Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.
Wednesday 10th September – 7.30pm
Tickets: From £5.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1289450
fri12sep7:30 pm9:00 pmPot licker12 Sep7:30 pm - 9:00 pm(GMT+01:00) Event Type Theatre
Event Details
When teachers Rich, Kris and Zara discover a bag of drugs in school lost property, they should report this straight away. But as the school faces imminent closure, is there
Event Details
When teachers Rich, Kris and Zara discover a bag of drugs in school lost property, they should report this straight away. But as the school faces imminent closure, is there another way to deal with the bag?
This brilliant new dark comedy looks at what happens when worlds collide, and lines of responsibility get blurred.
Writer/director Ed Viney has worked with theatres across the South West and nationally, including the RSC, Bath Theatre Royal and Bristol Old Vic. He recently received the Creative Scotland Four Nations Award and is the Festival Director of The Script’s The Thing which last year saw over 70 scripts being presented, linking with venues across Dorset and organisations including BBC Writersroom and National Theatre New Work.
Pot licker is part of a new scriptwriting initiative, Pipeline, at the Lighthouse Poole, and is produced by Dorchester Arts as part of a tour. A Dorchester Arts production in association with Lighthouse, Poole.
Age 16+
Tickets: Adults £15. Members, Friends & under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1262536
sat13sep7:30 pm9:35 pmDuo: Flamenco Fusion13 Sep7:30 pm - 9:35 pm(GMT+01:00) Event Type Music
Event Details
Back by popular demand after a big standing ovation last year, DUO bring you yet more tunes from their huge repertoire, all in their unique blending of flamenco with rock,
Event Details
Back by popular demand after a big standing ovation last year, DUO bring you yet more tunes from their huge repertoire, all in their unique blending of flamenco with rock, pop and classical music.
These personable virtuoso acoustic guitarists will give you a feel-good evening of tunes you know, as well as tunes you want to know – from Spain to Cuba via The Gypsy Kings, The Rolling Stones and a bit of Vivaldi!
Ben and Will met at The Royal Academy of Music 14 years ago and have been touring professionally in the UK and Europe ever since. No one ever forgets the thrill and surprise of hearing them live for the first time. Just ask some of your neighbours who saw them in 2023 and 2024..!
Tickets: £19. Members & Friends £17. Under 18s £14.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285059
Event Details
Don’t be late for this very important date… Monday the 15th of September at 7:30pm! Curiouser and curiouser… Shaftesbury Arts Centre’s Music & Drama Group presents this winter’s pantomime, Alice
Event Details
Don’t be late for this very important date… Monday the 15th of September at 7:30pm! Curiouser and curiouser… Shaftesbury Arts Centre’s Music & Drama Group presents this winter’s pantomime, Alice in Wonderland.
This timeless, classic fairy tale includes well-loved characters from Lewis Carroll’s original work. Whether you’re as Mad as the Hatter, evil as the Red Queen or as curious as Alice herself, come along to see how you can help bring these characters to life on stage.
With the charm of a traditional pantomime, you’ll expect to hear classic lines like ‘he’s behind you’ find a classic comedy duo, and a warm hearted dame helping our protagonist to rise above evil. If you are expecting a traditional tale then you are in for a surprise… this story has many twists and turns that bring the classic story to life – not quite how you would expect it! There is even an added character or two for even more fun!
Packed with principal characters, ensemble and a dance core with singing, dancing and lots of fun to boot. There are roles available for everyone from ages 7 to 107 – something here for everyone.
As well as on stage, there are many opportunities for being behind the scenes as well! With lots of support available, we have roles such as stage management, props and building our Wonderland as part of the team, along with many other roles for anyone with any level of experience.
Full of whimsy, imagination and music from the 50’s right up until today, this version of the story has the ability to transport the audience into the surreal, nonsensical world of Wonderland with the story still resonating with many still to this day. There are many twists and turns that will aim to leave you smiling like the Cheshire Cat.
Come along to find out more and how to get involved. If you are unable to make this event or have any other queries, please email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk. Auditions will be in the following weeks, with the show itself being on at the end of January 2026. Come and join us on our journey to the world of Wonderland!
Age 7+
Location
Phoenix Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
Event Details
In Elizabethan England, young playwright William Shakespeare struggles with writer’s block while working on his latest play.He finds inspiration and romance in the enigmatic Viola de Lesseps, who poses
Event Details
In Elizabethan England, young playwright William Shakespeare struggles with writer’s block while working on his latest play.
He finds inspiration and romance in the enigmatic Viola de Lesseps, who poses as a man to perform on stage. Their forbidden love affair ultimately inspires Shakespeare to write his masterpiece, Romeo and Juliet.
Director: John Madden
Featuring: Gwyneth Paltrow, Joseph Fiennes, Geoffrey Rush, Colin Firth, Ben Affleck, Judi Dench, Simon Callow
Details: USA/UK | Language: English | 1999 | 2h 3m
Showings:
Tuesday Matinée 16th September – 2pm
Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.
Tickets: £5
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1289951
Event Details
To join the reading group, the only qualifications required are to enjoy reading and sharing ideas about books, and to be a member of the Shaftesbury Arts Centre. We
Event Details
To join the reading group, the only qualifications required are to enjoy reading and sharing ideas about books, and to be a member of the Shaftesbury Arts Centre.
We meet on the third Thursday of each month from 7.30pm to 9.00pm in the Rutter Room.
Contact Viv Rudd 01747 851619; reading@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.
Location
Rutter Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
Event Details
Recovering alcoholic Rona, just out of rehab, returns to the wild Orkney Islands where she grew up.As she reconnects with the dramatic landscape and her separated parents, memories of
Event Details
Recovering alcoholic Rona, just out of rehab, returns to the wild Orkney Islands where she grew up.
As she reconnects with the dramatic landscape and her separated parents, memories of her childhood merge with the more recent challenging events that have set her on the difficult path to recovery.
Director: Nora Fingscheidt
Featuring: Saoirse Ronan, Paapa Essiedu, Nabil Elouahabi
Details: UK/Germany | Language: English | 2024 | 1h 58m
Tickets: £7.50. Members & Friends £6.50. U18s £5.50. Film Society members free.
See here for details of Film Society membership.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285599
Event Details
Ben Francis returns to Shaftesbury Arts Centre after winning best popular music act at the Shaftesbury Fringe with his highly accomplished and dynamic band. Ben will be bringing his distinctive voice
Event Details
Ben Francis returns to Shaftesbury Arts Centre after winning best popular music act at the Shaftesbury Fringe with his highly accomplished and dynamic band.
Ben will be bringing his distinctive voice and heartfelt musicality to the stage. Known for his warm vocals and emotionally rich performances, Ben blends pop, soul and modern folk influences to create a sound that is both intimate and powerful.
Ben is joined by the incredibly talented Young Martyrs, an alt.country/rock quartet from Somerset.
This promises to be an evening full of vibrant energy, standout original songs and exceptional musicianship.
Doors open 7pm for 7.30pm start.
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1288116
Event Details
Love Never Dies continues the story of The Phantom of the Opera. Featuring one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s finest musical scores performed by a 21
Event Details
Love Never Dies continues the story of The Phantom of the Opera.
Featuring one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s finest musical scores performed by a 21 piece orchestra, a stunning cast of 36 including Ben Lewis and Anna O’Byrne, over 300 incredible costumes and a magnificent set illuminated by over 5,000 dazzling light bulbs.
The year is 1907. It is 10 years after his disappearance from the Paris Opera House and the Phantom has escaped to a new life in New York where he lives amongst the screaming joy rides and freak-shows of Coney Island. In this new electrically-charged world, he has finally found a place for his music to soar. All that is missing is his love – Christine Daaé.
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285125
Event Details
At a home for retired musicians, the annual concert to celebrate composer Giuseppe Verdi’s birthday is disrupted by the arrival of Jean (Dame Maggie Smith), an eternal diva and the
Event Details
At a home for retired musicians, the annual concert to celebrate composer Giuseppe Verdi’s birthday is disrupted by the arrival of Jean (Dame Maggie Smith), an eternal diva and the former wife of one of the residents.
Old rivalries and passions resurface as the group grapples with personal insecurities and the challenge of putting on a successful show.
Director: Dustin Hoffman
Featuring: Dame Maggie Smith, Tom Courtenay, Billy Connolly, Pauline Collins, Michael Gambon
Details: UK | Language: English | 2013 | 1h 38m
Showings:
23rd September – 2pm Tuesday Matinée
Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.
Tickets: From £5.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1289954
Event Details
Musical artwork by Shaun Bracey, inspired by original paintings by Gary Cook, Ann Bracey and Andrew Bracey, and photographs by Jamie Randall and Pete Bracey. Shaun will be playing piano regularly
Event Details
Musical artwork by Shaun Bracey, inspired by original paintings by Gary Cook, Ann Bracey and Andrew Bracey, and photographs by Jamie Randall and Pete Bracey.
Shaun will be playing piano regularly throughout the exhibition with a free concert on Saturday 27th September from 11am to midday.
Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Location
Gallery
11 Bell Street Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
Event Details
Shaftesbury Abbey is a fragment of what it used to be. But the history that surrounds us is inevitably fragmentary. Documentary records are inevitably incomplete, all buildings change over time, and
Event Details
Shaftesbury Abbey is a fragment of what it used to be. But the history that surrounds us is inevitably fragmentary.
Documentary records are inevitably incomplete, all buildings change over time, and their relics are usually broken and dispersed – to the great advantage of museums. Nevertheless, though they can be ‘lost in plain sight’, or misattributed, piecemeal survivals from the past can be full of invaluable information when we inspect them closely.
This talk discusses the information that can be gleaned from historic fragments from the abbey and beyond.
Dr Jonathan Foyle is a lecturer at the University of Bath, specialising in Building Conservation and Architectural History. His early career included eight years as Curator of Historic Buildings, Historic Royal Palaces. This led to a broadcasting career, contributing to Time Team, and presenting series such as BBC’s Climbing Great Buildings and Henry VIII: Patron or Plunderer?
An eloquent and charismatic speaker, Jonathan has been a great friend to Shaftesbury Abbey over the years, advising and collaborating on the SAVED excavation project and the recent installation of the fragmented St Gregory Mass sculpture in the Abbey Museum.
Age 16+
Tickets: £15. Friends of Shaftesbury Abbey and under 18s £13.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285040
Event Details
Following on from the success of Disgraceful, which debuted at Dorchester Arts in 2023, Grace Lovelass is back with a new show. Grace relives the peaks and plateaus along her climb
Event Details
Following on from the success of Disgraceful, which debuted at Dorchester Arts in 2023, Grace Lovelass is back with a new show.
Grace relives the peaks and plateaus along her climb to becoming a professional opera singer and Ironman triathlete. Billed as a musical memoir, Ballgowns & Bib Shorts is the soundtrack to a decade of operatic and athletic adventures. Alongside comedy and candid insights, Grace presents an effervescent mix of classical, show-tunes and popular music, as well as irreverent, custom-written parody, to take audiences on a journey that proves… dreams really do come true.
Age 13+
Tickets: £18. Members, Friends & under 18s £16.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1257333
Event Details
Alice, a reclusive writer living on the windswept cliffs of Southern England during World War II, has her quiet world turned upside down when she is unexpectedly tasked with caring
Event Details
Alice, a reclusive writer living on the windswept cliffs of Southern England during World War II, has her quiet world turned upside down when she is unexpectedly tasked with caring for Frank, a young London evacuee.
Initially resistant, Alice soon finds that she and Frank share more in common than she ever imagined. Together, they must weather the storms of war and solitude, discovering the enduring power of love in the darkest of times.
Director: Jessica Swale
Featuring: Gemma Arterton, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Lucas Bond, Penelope Wilton, Tom Courtenay
Details: UK | Language: English | 2020 | 1h 39m
Showings:
30th September – 2pm Tuesday Matinée
Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.
Tickets: £5.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1289958
October
Event Details
In war-torn Rome, Floria Tosca and Mario Cavaradossi live for each other and for their art. But when Cavaradossi helps an escaped prisoner, the lovers make a deadly enemy in
Event Details
In war-torn Rome, Floria Tosca and Mario Cavaradossi live for each other and for their art. But when Cavaradossi helps an escaped prisoner, the lovers make a deadly enemy in the form of Baron Scarpia, Chief of Police.
At the mercy of Scarpia’s twisted desires, Tosca is forced to make a horrific bargain: sleeping with the man she hates in order to save the man she loves. Can she find a way out?
A star-studded cast includes soprano Anna Netrebko performing the role of Tosca, tenor Freddie De Tommaso as Cavaradossi, and bass-baritone Gerald Finley as Scarpia, with Music Director of The Royal Opera Jakub Hrůša conducting his first new production in the role. An alternative, modern-day Rome provides the backdrop for Oliver Mears’ unmissable, gripping new production of Puccini’s thriller.
Duration: 3h 30m (to be confirmed) | Sung in Italian with subtitles
Cast:
Floria Tosca ANNA NETREBKO
Mario Cavaradossi FREDDIE DE TOMMASO
Baron Scarpia GERALD FINLEY
Spoletta CARLO BOSI
Cesare Angelotti OSSIAN HUSKINSON
Sacristan ALESSANDRO CORBELLI
Sciarrone SIPHE KWANI
Creatives:
Music GIACOMO PUCCINI
Conductor JAKUB HRŮŠA
Director OLIVER MEARS
Set Designer SIMON LIMA HOLDSWORTH
Costume Designer ILONA KARAS
Lighting Designer FABIANA PICCIOLI
Movement Director ANNA MORRISSEY
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286071
fri03oct7:30 pm9:10 pmMean Girls (12A)03 Oct7:30 pm - 9:10 pm(GMT+01:00) Event Type Hilltop Cinema
Event Details
After moving from Africa to the American suburbs, Cady Heron enters the intimidating world of high school and quickly becomes entangled with a popular but ruthless clique known as The
Event Details
After moving from Africa to the American suburbs, Cady Heron enters the intimidating world of high school and quickly becomes entangled with a popular but ruthless clique known as The Plastics.
As she infiltrates their group, Cady is drawn into their web of gossip, manipulation, and social warfare, ultimately risking her own identity and values.
Director: Mark Waters
Featuring: Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Tim Meadows, Ana Gasteyer, Amy Poehler, Tina Fey
Details: USA | Language: English | 2004 | 1h 37m
Showings:
Friday 3rd October – 7.30pm
Tickets: £7.50. Members & Friends £6.50. Under 18s £5.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1291421
Event Details
Join The Rat Pack Gals for an evening of glamour, fun and frolics. Celebrating the golden era of swing, this inimitable show brings the timeless magic of The Rat Pack
Event Details
Join The Rat Pack Gals for an evening of glamour, fun and frolics.
Celebrating the golden era of swing, this inimitable show brings the timeless magic of The Rat Pack to life – with a fabulous female twist! Expect slick harmonies, sparkling humour, questionable dance routines and a few high kicks.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the classics, this feel-good celebration of music and mischief is guaranteed to leave you smiling. So don your furs and pearls, your sharpest suits and finest fedoras and dress to impress for an evening you won’t forget!
Susan Grant and Joni de Winter are creators and founding members of the production company BelleStreet Productions, best known for their award winning vocal duo and cabaret style productions. Their harmonies, humour and innovative, interactive shows have earned a reputation for great quality and original entertainment.
Tickets: £18. Members, Friends & under 18s £15.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1257177
Event Details
A struggling screenwriter accidentally stumbles into the decaying mansion of Norma Desmond, a faded silent film star desperate for a return to glory.Norma enlists Joe to help her with
Event Details
A struggling screenwriter accidentally stumbles into the decaying mansion of Norma Desmond, a faded silent film star desperate for a return to glory.
Norma enlists Joe to help her with a screenplay she believes will be her comeback, and as he becomes entangled in her delusions and manipulations, he finds himself caught between ambition and morality.
It’s the 75th anniversary of this biting critique of Hollywood.
Director: Billy Wilder
Featuring: William Holden, Gloria Swanson, Erich von Stroheim, Nancy Olson, Fred Clark, Lloyd Gough, Jack Webb
Details: USA | Language: English | 1950 | 1h 50m
Showings:
Tuesday 7th October – 2pm Matinée
Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.
Tickets: £5
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1291422
wed08octAll Daytue14From the Earth: Jenny Luck08 - 14 Oct(All Day)(GMT+01:00) Event Type Exhibition
Event Details
An exhibition of paintings by Jenny Luck. Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Event Details
An exhibition of paintings by Jenny Luck.
Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Location
Gallery
11 Bell Street Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
Event Details
The arrival of army deserter Pietro in a remote village in the Italian Alps in 1944 upturns the life of the village schoolteacher and his family, especially his daughters, bringing
Event Details
The arrival of army deserter Pietro in a remote village in the Italian Alps in 1944 upturns the life of the village schoolteacher and his family, especially his daughters, bringing to the surface many family secrets.
This prize-winning film evokes past rural life with compassion and acute observation.
Director: Maura Delpero
Featuring: Giuseppe De Domenico, Tommaso Ragno, Martina Scrinzi
Details: Italy/France/Belgium | Subtitles | 2024 | 1h 59m
Tickets: £7.50. Members & Friends £6.50. U18s £5.50. Film Society members free.
See here for details of Film Society membership.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285600
Event Details
Back due to popular demand, join our Music & Drama Group with a play reading evening – part of their MAD About Drama events. This evening is a chance to come
Event Details
Back due to popular demand, join our Music & Drama Group with a play reading evening – part of their MAD About Drama events.
This evening is a chance to come and have a read, or just a listen of the play, grab a drink from the bar and meet new and old friends. All whilst sharing your love of all things drama.
The play is yet to be confirmed – keep your eyes on social media pages for more information.
Age 16+
Free to attend.
Location
Phoenix Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
Event Details
Housewife Pansy is not happy. She is agoraphobic, a hypochondriac and paranoid about animals, birds, insects, plants, and flowers. She is confrontational with everyone, especially her plumber husband Curtley and
Event Details
Housewife Pansy is not happy. She is agoraphobic, a hypochondriac and paranoid about animals, birds, insects, plants, and flowers. She is confrontational with everyone, especially her plumber husband Curtley and her unemployed son Moses, whom she thinks is wasting his life.
Acclaimed filmmaker Mike Leigh’s new film explores family relationships in the post-pandemic world. After over a decade spent making his two epic period films Mr. Turner and Peterloo, Mike Leigh returns to his ongoing exploration of the contemporary world with this tragi-comic study of human strengths and weaknesses.
Director: Mike Leigh
Featuring: Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Michele Austin, David Webber, Tuwaine Barrett, Ani Nelson, Sophia Brown, Jonathan Livingstone
Details: UK/Spain | Language: English | 2025 | 1h 37m
Showings:
Tuesday 14th October – 2pm Matinée
Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.
Tickets: £5.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1291431
wed15octAll Daytue2154: Gary Young15 - 21 Oct(All Day)(GMT+01:00) Event Type Exhibition
Event Details
Gary Young is an acrylic painter whose work explores the climate crisis and the increasingly fragile state of the world we live in. His solo exhibition, 54, is a personal response
Event Details
Gary Young is an acrylic painter whose work explores the climate crisis and the increasingly fragile state of the world we live in.
His solo exhibition, 54, is a personal response to an age of disruption – where beauty, loss, and urgency coexist on the canvas. Gary draws inspiration from the emotional depth of Mark Rothko and the shifting textures of Gerhard Richter. His paintings often balance abstraction with atmosphere, inviting viewers to pause and reflect on what’s happening around us.
Gary’s work is rooted in a sense of quiet defiance, using colour, form, and layers to challenge indifference and evoke empathy.
Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Location
Gallery
11 Bell Street Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
Event Details
Emma-Marie Kabanova plays 18th century folk music and music inspired by folk traditions. A selection of dance tunes and reels from taverns and palaces. This is the first in our new season
Event Details
Emma-Marie Kabanova plays 18th century folk music and music inspired by folk traditions.
A selection of dance tunes and reels from taverns and palaces.
This is the first in our new season of Wednesday morning coffee concerts, featuring the Arts Centre’s Musician-in-Residence and renowned Baroque violinist, Emma-Marie Kabanova.
Tickets: £15. Members & Friends £12.
Location
Phoenix Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1292641
Event Details
To join the reading group, the only qualifications required are to enjoy reading and sharing ideas about books, and to be a member of the Shaftesbury Arts Centre. We
Event Details
To join the reading group, the only qualifications required are to enjoy reading and sharing ideas about books, and to be a member of the Shaftesbury Arts Centre.
We meet on the third Thursday of each month from 7.30pm to 9.00pm in the Rutter Room.
Contact Viv Rudd 01747 851619; reading@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.
Location
Rutter Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
Event Details
After Lang is released from prison, he returns to his hometown in northwest China where he becomes part of a team tasked with clearing away stray dogs.He bonds with
Event Details
After Lang is released from prison, he returns to his hometown in northwest China where he becomes part of a team tasked with clearing away stray dogs.
He bonds with a noble-looking black dog and they begin a heart-warming journey together.
“The Citizen Canine of Dog Movies” – Time Out
Director: Guan Yu
Featuring: Eddie Peng, Liya Tong, Jia Zhang-ke
Details: China | Subtitles | 2024 | 1h 50m
Tickets: £7.50. Members & Friends £6.50. U18s £5.50. Film Society members free.
See here for details of Film Society membership.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285601
Event Details
Embark on A Ticket to Ride with The Fourmost, a captivating journey into one of music’s most exciting eras. As seasoned veterans of the Merseybeat scene, The Fourmost bring unparalleled authenticity
Event Details
Embark on A Ticket to Ride with The Fourmost, a captivating journey into one of music’s most exciting eras.
As seasoned veterans of the Merseybeat scene, The Fourmost bring unparalleled authenticity and passion to the stage, performing a beloved collection of timeless hits.
This dynamic show features a vibrant ‘hit parade’ that delves into the songbooks of the era’s most influential bands, including iconic tracks from The Beatles, The Searchers, The Hollies, The Kinks, The Who, and The Move, alongside The Fourmost’s own celebrated repertoire. Each song is delivered with the energy and precision that made them legendary.
A Ticket to Ride transcends a traditional concert; it’s a heartfelt tribute and a nostalgic voyage that encapsulates the essence of Beatlemania and the profound cultural shift of the 1960s. Experience an authentic 60s vibe brought to life through stunning musicianship and a genuine connection to the era. This immersive and thoroughly entertaining experience promises to evoke cherished memories and introduce a new generation to the timeless soundtrack of a revolution.
Get your ticket for this unforgettable ride!
Tickets: £22. Under 18s £18.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285087
Event Details
A group of British retirees travel to India to take up residence in what they believe is a newly restored luxury hotel.Upon arrival, they discover the Marigold Hotel is
Event Details
A group of British retirees travel to India to take up residence in what they believe is a newly restored luxury hotel.
Upon arrival, they discover the Marigold Hotel is far from the opulence promised, but gradually come to embrace its charms and unpredictability. Through new friendships and adventures, each finds their outlook on life transformed in unexpected ways.
Director: John Madden
Featuring: Judi Dench, Bill Nighy, Penelope Wilton, Dev Patel, Celia Imrie, Ronald Pickup, Tom Wilkinson, Maggie Smith
Details: UK | Language: English | 2012 | 2h 4m
Showings:
Tuesday 21st October – 2pm Matinée
Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.
Tickets: £5.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1291428
Event Details
An exhibition exploring landscapes that have been reconstructed by thought and a range of artistic processes to demonstrate movement, automation and heat.Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Event Details
An exhibition exploring landscapes that have been reconstructed by thought and a range of artistic processes to demonstrate movement, automation and heat.
Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Location
Gallery
11 Bell Street Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
Event Details
Neil Bartlett’s bold and imaginative adaptation of Great Expectations brings Pip’s unforgettable journey of love, ambition, and betrayal to life on stage. Encounter the eccentric Miss Havisham, the coldly beautiful Estella,
Event Details
Neil Bartlett’s bold and imaginative adaptation of Great Expectations brings Pip’s unforgettable journey of love, ambition, and betrayal to life on stage.
Encounter the eccentric Miss Havisham, the coldly beautiful Estella, and the terrifying convict Magwitch in a reimagining that captures the heart of Dickens’ classic with striking clarity, dark humour, and emotional power.
Don’t miss this chance to experience one of literature’s greatest stories, reinvented for today’s audience – gripping, moving, and full of surprises.
Tickets: Adults £14, Members & Friends £12. Under 18s £10.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1294388
Event Details
Neil Bartlett’s bold and imaginative adaptation of Great Expectations brings Pip’s unforgettable journey of love, ambition, and betrayal to life on stage. Encounter the eccentric Miss Havisham, the coldly beautiful Estella,
Event Details
Neil Bartlett’s bold and imaginative adaptation of Great Expectations brings Pip’s unforgettable journey of love, ambition, and betrayal to life on stage.
Encounter the eccentric Miss Havisham, the coldly beautiful Estella, and the terrifying convict Magwitch in a reimagining that captures the heart of Dickens’ classic with striking clarity, dark humour, and emotional power.
Don’t miss this chance to experience one of literature’s greatest stories, reinvented for today’s audience – gripping, moving, and full of surprises.
Tickets: Adults £14, Members & Friends £12. Under 18s £10.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1294388
Event Details
Neil Bartlett’s bold and imaginative adaptation of Great Expectations brings Pip’s unforgettable journey of love, ambition, and betrayal to life on stage. Encounter the eccentric Miss Havisham, the coldly beautiful Estella,
Event Details
Neil Bartlett’s bold and imaginative adaptation of Great Expectations brings Pip’s unforgettable journey of love, ambition, and betrayal to life on stage.
Encounter the eccentric Miss Havisham, the coldly beautiful Estella, and the terrifying convict Magwitch in a reimagining that captures the heart of Dickens’ classic with striking clarity, dark humour, and emotional power.
Don’t miss this chance to experience one of literature’s greatest stories, reinvented for today’s audience – gripping, moving, and full of surprises.
Tickets: Adults £14, Members & Friends £12. Under 18s £10.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1294388
Event Details
Neil Bartlett’s bold and imaginative adaptation of Great Expectations brings Pip’s unforgettable journey of love, ambition, and betrayal to life on stage. Encounter the eccentric Miss Havisham, the coldly beautiful Estella,
Event Details
Neil Bartlett’s bold and imaginative adaptation of Great Expectations brings Pip’s unforgettable journey of love, ambition, and betrayal to life on stage.
Encounter the eccentric Miss Havisham, the coldly beautiful Estella, and the terrifying convict Magwitch in a reimagining that captures the heart of Dickens’ classic with striking clarity, dark humour, and emotional power.
Don’t miss this chance to experience one of literature’s greatest stories, reinvented for today’s audience – gripping, moving, and full of surprises.
Tickets: Adults £14, Members & Friends £12. Under 18s £10.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1294388
Event Details
Oscar-nominated Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl, Saltburn) is Jessica in the much-anticipated next play from the team behind Prima Facie.Jessica Parks is a smart Crown Court Judge at the top of
Event Details
Oscar-nominated Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl, Saltburn) is Jessica in the much-anticipated next play from the team behind Prima Facie.
Jessica Parks is a smart Crown Court Judge at the top of her career. Behind the robe, she is a karaoke fiend, a loving wife and a supportive parent. When an event threatens to throw her life completely off balance, can she hold her family upright?
Writer Suzie Miller and director Justin Martin reunite following their global phenomenon Prima Facie, with this searing examination of modern motherhood and masculinity.
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1257330
Event Details
After witnessing a gangland murder, a nightclub singer is forced to take refuge in a convent. But she ends up turning the convent choir into a soulful chorus, complete with a
Event Details
After witnessing a gangland murder, a nightclub singer is forced to take refuge in a convent.
But she ends up turning the convent choir into a soulful chorus, complete with a Motown repertoire, until the sudden celebrity of the choir jeopardises her identity.
Director: Emile Ardolino
Featuring: Whoopi Goldberg, Maggie Smith, Kathy Najimy, Wendy Makkena, Mary Wickes, Harvey Keitel
Details: USA | Language: English | 1992 | 1h 40m
Showings:
Tuesday 28th October – 2pm Matinée
Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.
Tickets: £5
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1291432
Event Details
A solo exhibition of work by Phoebe Ridgway. Phoebe Ridgway (b.1994, Dorset) lives and works in London. Using walking as a methodology, Ridgway seeks to explore the relationship between inside and
Event Details
A solo exhibition of work by Phoebe Ridgway.
Phoebe Ridgway (b.1994, Dorset) lives and works in London. Using walking as a methodology, Ridgway seeks to explore the relationship between inside and outside. Ridgway contemplates how through the act of walking, one is made aware of these physical sensations of movement, memory and interconnectedness and how these can be translated into marks, shapes, colour fields, motifs that map that journey.
These moments are entwined with our presence on the land, forever following and altering, interrupting and intruding into the ever-changing rhythmic arrangement of the natural environment. The function of varying the tempo of paint presents to the viewer a physical experience, holding an assorted assemblage of instances of note, and drawing on occurrences that generate an overwhelming sensation.
Open 10am to 4.30pm daily. Free admission.
Location
Gallery
11 Bell Street Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
Event Details
Join Academy Award-winner, Jeremy Irons, as he takes the viewer on a your of one of the world’s most important museums: The Museo Egizio in Turin. The oldest collection dedicated to
Event Details
Join Academy Award-winner, Jeremy Irons, as he takes the viewer on a your of
one of the world’s most important museums: The Museo Egizio in Turin.
The oldest collection dedicated to ancient Egyptian civilisation houses over 40,000 artefacts – 12,000 of which are on display – ranging from colossal statues to the rich burial objects of Kha and Merit and welcomes over 900,000 visitors a year. Key exhibits include Sphinxes, the Turin King List, the Goldmine Papyrus, and sculptures of Ramesses II and Isis of Coptos.
Founded in 1824, the museum’s origins are linked to Piedmontese diplomat Bernardino Drovetti and excavation campaigns by Ernesto Schiaparelli and Giulio Farina. Its story is explored in The Immortals, tracing Egypt’s influence and featuring insights from museum leaders, international experts and restorers. With over 90 global collaborations, the museum’s collections and legacy connect Turin to Egypt through history, science, and myth.
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1289503
thu30oct7:30 pm9:45 pmNosferatu (15)30 Oct7:30 pm - 9:45 pm(GMT+00:00) Event Type Hilltop Cinema
Event Details
A gothic tale of obsession between a haunted young woman and the terrifying vampire infatuated with her, causing untold horror in its wake.See this modern remake of the 1922
Event Details
A gothic tale of obsession between a haunted young woman and the terrifying vampire infatuated with her, causing untold horror in its wake.
See this modern remake of the 1922 horror classic – screened specially for Halloween.
Director: Robert Eggers
Featuring: Bill Skarsgård, Nicholas Hoult, Lily-Rose Depp, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Emma Corrin, Willem Dafoe
Details: USA | Language: English | 2024 | 2h 12m
Showings:
Thursday 30th October – 7.30pm
Tickets: £7.50. Members & Friends £6.50. Under 18s £5.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1291433
Event Details
Featuring a number of men who have been incarcerated, this is the story of Divine G, who finds a sense of purpose through his participation in the real life ‘Rehabilitation
Event Details
Featuring a number of men who have been incarcerated, this is the story of Divine G, who finds a sense of purpose through his participation in the real life ‘Rehabilitation through the Arts’ programme at Sing Sing maximum security prison.
“An inspirational fact-based prison drama” – Wendy Ide, Guardian.
Director: Greg Kwedar
Featuring: Colman Domingo, Paul Raci, Clarence Maclin, Sean San Jose
Details: USA | Language: English | 2023 | 1h 46m
Tickets: £7.50. Members & Friends £6.50. U18s £5.50. Film Society members free.
See here for details of Film Society membership.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285602
November
Event Details
A solo exhibition of work by Phoebe Ridgway. Phoebe Ridgway (b.1994, Dorset) lives and works in London. Using walking as a methodology, Ridgway seeks to explore the relationship between inside and
Event Details
A solo exhibition of work by Phoebe Ridgway.
Phoebe Ridgway (b.1994, Dorset) lives and works in London. Using walking as a methodology, Ridgway seeks to explore the relationship between inside and outside. Ridgway contemplates how through the act of walking, one is made aware of these physical sensations of movement, memory and interconnectedness and how these can be translated into marks, shapes, colour fields, motifs that map that journey.
These moments are entwined with our presence on the land, forever following and altering, interrupting and intruding into the ever-changing rhythmic arrangement of the natural environment. The function of varying the tempo of paint presents to the viewer a physical experience, holding an assorted assemblage of instances of note, and drawing on occurrences that generate an overwhelming sensation.
Open 10am to 4.30pm daily. Free admission.
Location
Gallery
11 Bell Street Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
Event Details
Get ready for the ultimate rock experience as Bat Out of Hell roars onto the big screen this Halloween! The cast of the West End production will bring Jim Steinman and
Event Details
Get ready for the ultimate rock experience as Bat Out of Hell roars onto the big screen this Halloween!
The cast of the West End production will bring Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf’s iconic anthems to life, including I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That), Paradise By The Dashboard Light, Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad, Dead Ringer For Love, and, of course, Bat Out of Hell.
Bat out of Hell – The Musical promises a spectacle that will leave you breathless! This heart-pounding experience, with a powerhouse eight-piece live band on stage, delivers a new production with sprawling multi-level platforms to transport you from Raven’s bedroom to the underground world of
the Lost in a visual feast that pushes the boundaries of live theatre.
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285131
Event Details
Dorset Visual Arts has worked with four artists who were awarded bursaries to make new work about Cranborne Chase.This group exhibition presents a fresh body of work which represents different
Event Details
Dorset Visual Arts has worked with four artists who were awarded bursaries to make new work about Cranborne Chase.
This group exhibition presents a fresh body of work which represents different facets of
the Chase’s ecology as well as telling its story as a place of inspiration, including aspects of its human history and importance now as a National Landscape. The artists were encouraged to explore the Chase, in dialogue with field experts, to develop new work and evolve their practice.
The project is a collaboration between Dorset Visual Arts and Cranborne Chase National Landscape and is supported by Community and Culture funding from Dorset Council.
Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Location
Gallery
11 Bell Street Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
Event Details
Legendary magician the Great Baldini and his unruly magical menagerie explodes chaotically across the stage with this all-ages magic show. It’s a family theatre experience, full of magic, puppetry, slapstick
Event Details
Legendary magician the Great Baldini and his unruly magical menagerie explodes chaotically across the stage with this all-ages magic show.
It’s a family theatre experience, full of magic, puppetry, slapstick and clowning. It’s fast-paced, interactive, uplifting, and hilarious, leaving audiences happy, exhausted,
bewildered and amazed. Daftly brilliant… with sweets!
The Great Baldini is an award-winning member of the Magic Circle, and President of the Bristol Society of Magic. Age 3+.
“Incredible” – Front Row, BBC Radio 4
“Charming, engaging and charismatic. A pleasure.” – FringeReview
Tickets: £10 grown-ups. £7 under 16s. £28 Family (1GU+3U16s or 2GUs+2U16s).
- Latecomers welcome.
- Babies in arms (i.e under 9 months):
- May be admitted
- Sitting on parents/carers lap-able admitted for free
- The venue may (at its discretion) ask that children or babies causing a disturbance to the performance be removed from the auditorium.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1269179
Event Details
Legendary magician The Great Baldini (The Emperor of Illusion, The Prince of Prestidigitation, The Maharajah of Mystery) presents a cabaret of magical illusions. From his first illusion on his twelfth
Event Details
Legendary magician The Great Baldini (The Emperor of Illusion, The Prince of Prestidigitation, The Maharajah of Mystery) presents a cabaret of magical illusions.
From his first illusion on his twelfth birthday, to seizing control of the ILLUSIONATI (a shadowy cabal of Magicians) and culminating in his attempt at Houdini’s greatest escape, this is a joyously silly romp through magic.
Baldini is a Member of the Magic Circle and an award-winning Stage Magician. Age 7+.
“Incredible” – Front Row, BBC Radio 4
“Charming, engaging and charismatic. A pleasure.” – FringeReview
“Wonderful, a joy” – Pick of the Week, BBC Radio 4
Tickets: Adults £15. Under 18s £10.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1269181
Event Details
Lise, the only daughter of Widow Simone, is in love with the young farmer Colas, but her mother has far more ambitious plans for her. Simone hopes to marry her off
Event Details
Lise, the only daughter of Widow Simone, is in love with the young farmer Colas, but her mother has far more ambitious plans for her.
Simone hopes to marry her off to Alain, the son of the wealthy proprietor Thomas. Desperate to marry Colas rather than Alain, Lise contrives to outwit her mother’s plans.
65 years after its premiere, The Royal Ballet presents Frederick Ashton’s La Fille mal gardée. This affectionate portrayal of village life combines exuberant good humour and brilliantly inventive choreography in what is undoubtedly Ashton’s love letter to the English countryside. La Fille mal gardée whisks us away into pastoral bliss with Ferdinand Hérold’s cheerful score and Osbert Lancaster’s colourful designs.
Duration: 3h 30m (to be confirmed)
Cast:
To be confirmed.
Creatives:
Choreography FREDERICK ASHTON
Music FERDINAND HÉROLD
Conductor JONATHAN LO
Arrangement and Orchestration JOHN LANCHBERY
Scenario JEAN DAUBERVAL
Designer OSBERT LANCASTER
Lighting Designer JOHN B. READ
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286041
Event Details
Winner of numerous awards, significantly the Grand Prix at Cannes in 2024, this beautiful film shows us the loves, the hopes, the desires of three women, from three different generations,
Event Details
Winner of numerous awards, significantly the Grand Prix at Cannes in 2024, this beautiful film shows us the loves, the hopes, the desires of three women, from three different generations, working in Mumbai Hospital.
Struggling to deal with their own personal problems, they find mutual support.
Director: Payal Kapadia
Featuring: Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam
Details: India/Netherlands/France/Luxembourg/Italy | Subtitles | 2024 | 1h 58m
Tickets: £7.50. Members & Friends £6.50. U18s £5.50. Film Society members free.
See here for details of Film Society membership.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285603
Event Details
One 85-year-old man, five countries, sixteen cities, twenty-three shows, six weeks. Will he make it home… or is this the end of the road? One of the most recognisable figures in
Event Details
One 85-year-old man, five countries, sixteen cities, twenty-three shows, six weeks. Will he make it home… or is this the end of the road?
One of the most recognisable figures in British comedy, John Cleese’s career spans six decades – from his early days with the Cambridge Footlights to co-founding Monty Python, co-creating Fawlty Towers, and writing and starring in the Oscar-nominated A Fish Called Wanda. His unique brand of black humour has made him a global icon and intergalactic treasure.
At the age of 85, John Cleese sets off on what might be his final European tour – five countries, sixteen cities, twenty-three shows, and retaining just two original body parts. John Cleese Packs It In is a wry, behind-the-scenes portrait of a comedy legend on the road, battling various ailments, chaotic travel, and his own stubborn refusal to stop.
Spanning six weeks on the road, the film captures Cleese unfiltered and on the move – riffing on life, fame, and the absurdity of getting old in front of thousands of fans. As he reflects on a stage career that began in 1963, the question lingers: is this
the end of the road? With unique and intimate access and showing unexpected tenderness, this is a documentary about legacy, laughter, and the dignity of bowing out… however reluctantly.
Showings:
Saturday 15th November – 7.30pm
Tickets: Adult £7.50. Members & Friends £6.50. Under 18s £5.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1277290
Event Details
Music for classical guitar and violin by Paganini and his early 19th century contemporaries performed by Emma-Marie Kabanova and Colin Thompson.Those who came to their previous performance will know
Event Details
Music for classical guitar and violin by Paganini and his early 19th century contemporaries performed by Emma-Marie Kabanova and Colin Thompson.
Those who came to their previous performance will know how enjoyable this one will be!
Tickets: £12. Members & Friends £10.
Location
Phoenix Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
Event Details
Join our Music & Drama Group’s Youth Theatre in Annie JR. this November.Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, with a beloved
Event Details
Join our Music & Drama Group’s Youth Theatre in Annie JR. this November.
Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, with a beloved book and score by Tony Award-winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, Annie JR. features everyone’s favourite orphan, Annie.
With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. Annie is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of an orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. Annie eventually foils Miss Hannigan’s evil machinations, finding a new home and family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks and his personal secretary, Grace Farrell.
Tickets: Adults £7. Under 18s £5. Family (2 adults and 2 under 18s) £20.
Book by Thomas Meehan, Music by Charles Strouse, Lyrics by Martin Charnin. Presented on Broadway by Mike Nichols. Originally produced by Stephen R. Friedman, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Lewis Allen, Icarus Productions, Irwin Meyer, Alvin Nederlander Associates Inc. Based on Little Orphan Annie by permission of The Tribune Media Services, Inc. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International. All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.co.uk.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1292691
Event Details
Join our Music & Drama Group’s Youth Theatre in Annie JR. this November.Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, with a beloved
Event Details
Join our Music & Drama Group’s Youth Theatre in Annie JR. this November.
Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, with a beloved book and score by Tony Award-winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, Annie JR. features everyone’s favourite orphan, Annie.
With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. Annie is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of an orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. Annie eventually foils Miss Hannigan’s evil machinations, finding a new home and family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks and his personal secretary, Grace Farrell.
Tickets: Adults £7. Under 18s £5. Family (2 adults and 2 under 18s) £20.
Book by Thomas Meehan, Music by Charles Strouse, Lyrics by Martin Charnin. Presented on Broadway by Mike Nichols. Originally produced by Stephen R. Friedman, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Lewis Allen, Icarus Productions, Irwin Meyer, Alvin Nederlander Associates Inc. Based on Little Orphan Annie by permission of The Tribune Media Services, Inc. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International. All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.co.uk.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1292691
Event Details
Join our Music & Drama Group’s Youth Theatre in Annie JR. this November.Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, with a beloved
Event Details
Join our Music & Drama Group’s Youth Theatre in Annie JR. this November.
Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, with a beloved book and score by Tony Award-winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, Annie JR. features everyone’s favourite orphan, Annie.
With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. Annie is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of an orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. Annie eventually foils Miss Hannigan’s evil machinations, finding a new home and family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks and his personal secretary, Grace Farrell.
Tickets: Adults £7. Under 18s £5. Family (2 adults and 2 under 18s) £20.
Book by Thomas Meehan, Music by Charles Strouse, Lyrics by Martin Charnin. Presented on Broadway by Mike Nichols. Originally produced by Stephen R. Friedman, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Lewis Allen, Icarus Productions, Irwin Meyer, Alvin Nederlander Associates Inc. Based on Little Orphan Annie by permission of The Tribune Media Services, Inc. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International. All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.co.uk.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1292691
Event Details
Join our Music & Drama Group’s Youth Theatre in Annie JR. this November.Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, with a beloved
Event Details
Join our Music & Drama Group’s Youth Theatre in Annie JR. this November.
Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, with a beloved book and score by Tony Award-winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, Annie JR. features everyone’s favourite orphan, Annie.
With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. Annie is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of an orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. Annie eventually foils Miss Hannigan’s evil machinations, finding a new home and family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks and his personal secretary, Grace Farrell.
Tickets: Adults £7. Under 18s £5. Family (2 adults and 2 under 18s) £20.
Book by Thomas Meehan, Music by Charles Strouse, Lyrics by Martin Charnin. Presented on Broadway by Mike Nichols. Originally produced by Stephen R. Friedman, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Lewis Allen, Icarus Productions, Irwin Meyer, Alvin Nederlander Associates Inc. Based on Little Orphan Annie by permission of The Tribune Media Services, Inc. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International. All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.co.uk.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1292691
Event Details
Stuck at home and put to work by her spoiled Step-Sisters, Cinderella’s life is dreary and dull. Everything changes when she helps a mysterious woman out… With a little bit of
Event Details
Stuck at home and put to work by her spoiled Step-Sisters, Cinderella’s life is dreary and dull. Everything changes when she helps a mysterious woman out…
With a little bit of magic, she is transported into an ethereal new world – one where fairies bring the gifts of the seasons, where pumpkins turn into carriages, and where true love awaits.
This enchanting ballet by The Royal Ballet’s Founding Choreographer Frederick Ashton is a theatrical experience for all the family and will transport you into an ethereal world where a sprinkling of fairy dust makes dreams come true.
Filmed live at the Royal Opera House, London, in December 2024.
Duration: 3h 15m minutes (to be confirmed)
Cast:
Cinderella FUMI KANEKO
The Prince WILLIAM BRACEWELL
Cinderella’s Step-Sisters BENNET GARTSIDE, JAMES HAY
Cinderella’s Father THOMAS WHITEHEAD
The Fairy Godmother MAYARA MAGRI
The Fairy Spring ISABELLA GASPARINI
The Fairy Summer MARIKO SASAKI
The Fairy Autumn MEAGHAN GRACE HINKIS
The Fairy Winter CLAIRE CALVERT
The Jester DAICHI IKARASHI
Creatives:
Choreography FREDERICK ASHTON
Music SERGEY PROKOFIEV
Conductor JONATHAN LO
Set Designer TOM PYE
Costume Designer ALEXANDRA BYRNE
Lighting Designer DAVID FINN
Video Designer FINN ROSS
Illusions CHRIS FISHER
Conductor JONATHAN LO
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286051
Event Details
Come and explore The Studio 90 exhibition, which showcases a diverse range of work across drawing, watercolours, oils, collages, ceramics and photography, and is designed to inspire all artistic tastes.
Event Details
Come and explore The Studio 90 exhibition, which showcases a diverse range of work across drawing, watercolours, oils, collages, ceramics and photography, and is designed to inspire all artistic tastes.
This exhibition offers a chance to engage with art in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Location
Gallery
11 Bell Street Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
Event Details
After a fantastic first year in 2024, Shaftesbury Arts Centre are delighted to once again be hosting the Shaftesbury Young Performers Festival. The SYPF is a competitive festival but the emphasis
Event Details
After a fantastic first year in 2024, Shaftesbury Arts Centre are delighted to once again be hosting the Shaftesbury Young Performers Festival.
The SYPF is a competitive festival but the emphasis is on celebrating music making and encouraging young performers. The festival is open to young people aged 18 years and under. There are a range of categories and each category will be split so that performers are competing against other young people of a similar age/ ability to themselves.
Performers may enter multiple categories but can only enter each category once. Entrants will be asked to sing/play one piece which best showcases their skills. They will then receive constructive feedback from one of our professional adjudicators.
All entrants will receive a certificate of merit and there will be awards for winners of each category. Selected performers showing great effort or expertise will be invited to play at our festival concert.
Entry:
Early Bird booking – £5
Regular booking (from 1st October) – £7
Fees are per entry not per person. Early bird booking is available until September 30th. All entries must be in by October 31st.
Entry forms will be sent on receipt of payment – please provide an email address during booking. For further information, please email SYPF@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.
Dates and Categories:
- Friday 28th November – Schools
- Saturday 29th November – Instrumentalists
- Sunday 30th November – Singers
Location
Shaftesbury Arts Centre
13 Bell Street Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
Event Details
Totone’s carefree teenage life, in the very rural Franche-Comté region of France, is shattered when he is left alone to fend for himself and his 7-year-old sister. In need of
Event Details
Totone’s carefree teenage life, in the very rural Franche-Comté region of France, is shattered when he is left alone to fend for himself and his 7-year-old sister.
In need of income, he channels his energy and guile into producing an award-winning Comté cheese.
Director: Louise Courvoisier
Featuring: Clément Faveau, Maïwene Barthelemy, Luna Garret
Details: France | Subtitles | 2024 | 1h 32m
Tickets: £7.50. Members & Friends £6.50. U18s £5.50. Film Society members free.
See here for details of Film Society membership.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285604
Event Details
Following on from A Christmas Carol: In Concert and A Brief History of Christmas, GreenMatthews present their new festive show. Spanning several centuries, GreenMatthews’ Midwinter Revels is a celebration of
Event Details
Following on from A Christmas Carol: In Concert and A Brief History of Christmas, GreenMatthews present their new festive show.
Spanning several centuries, GreenMatthews’ Midwinter Revels is a celebration of Yuletide past, guaranteed to warm the cockles of the most Scrooge-like heart. Featuring Christmas carols, winter folk songs, toe-tapping tunes and a plethora of weird and wonderful instruments, the show is brought to life with GreenMatthews’ trademark wit and humour. Age 8+
“You guys are awesome!” – Bill Barclay, Director of Music at Shakespeare’s Globe
Tickets: £18. Members, Friends and under 18s £15.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1256920
Event Details
Five-time Olivier Award winner Imelda Staunton (The Crown) joins forces with her real-life daughter Bessie Carter (Bridgerton) for the very first time, playing mother and daughter in Bernard Shaw’s incendiary
Event Details
Five-time Olivier Award winner Imelda Staunton (The Crown) joins forces with her real-life daughter Bessie Carter (Bridgerton) for the very first time, playing mother and daughter in Bernard Shaw’s incendiary moral classic.
Vivie Warren is a woman ahead of her time. Her mother, however, is a product of that old patriarchal order. Exploiting it has earned Mrs. Warren a fortune – but at what cost?
Filmed live from the West End, this new production reunites Staunton with director Dominic Cooke (Follies, Good), exploring the clash between morality and independence, traditions and progress.
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1277293
December
Event Details
Come and explore The Studio 90 exhibition, which showcases a diverse range of work across drawing, watercolours, oils, collages, ceramics and photography, and is designed to inspire all artistic tastes.
Event Details
Come and explore The Studio 90 exhibition, which showcases a diverse range of work across drawing, watercolours, oils, collages, ceramics and photography, and is designed to inspire all artistic tastes.
This exhibition offers a chance to engage with art in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.
Location
Gallery
11 Bell Street Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
Event Details
Come and join The Music & Drama Group for an immersive, interactive evening of ‘Who Dunnit’, written by Myra McDadd. Murder At The KO Corral takes place in Dead Moose Gulch,
Event Details
Come and join The Music & Drama Group for an immersive, interactive evening of ‘Who Dunnit’, written by Myra McDadd.
Murder At The KO Corral takes place in Dead Moose Gulch, where Polecat Pete has been found dead behind a heap of horse manure! Meet the suspects, question and quiz them, find out how they knew Polecat Pete and whether they might have been the one who killed him.
Meet Sheriff P Knutt and help him and Marshall Wyatt Twerp solve the crime throughout the evening. There will be a prize for the winning team as well as a prize for ‘The Best Dressed in the West’.
There will be a 2 course meal as part of the evening. Please advise of any dietary requirements to murdermystery@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.
Age 18+
Tickets: £20.
Location
Rutter Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1249502
Event Details
Come and join The Music & Drama Group for an immersive, interactive evening of ‘Who Dunnit’, written by Myra McDadd. Murder At The KO Corral takes place in Dead Moose Gulch,
Event Details
Come and join The Music & Drama Group for an immersive, interactive evening of ‘Who Dunnit’, written by Myra McDadd.
Murder At The KO Corral takes place in Dead Moose Gulch, where Polecat Pete has been found dead behind a heap of horse manure! Meet the suspects, question and quiz them, find out how they knew Polecat Pete and whether they might have been the one who killed him.
Meet Sheriff P Knutt and help him and Marshall Wyatt Twerp solve the crime throughout the evening. There will be a prize for the winning team as well as a prize for ‘The Best Dressed in the West’.
There will be a 2 course meal as part of the evening. Please advise of any dietary requirements to murdermystery@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.
Age 18+
Tickets: £20.
Location
Rutter Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1249502
Event Details
Back due to popular demand, join our Music & Drama Group with a play reading evening – part of their MAD About Drama events. This evening is a chance to come
Event Details
Back due to popular demand, join our Music & Drama Group with a play reading evening – part of their MAD About Drama events.
This evening is a chance to come and have a read, or just a listen of the play, grab a drink from the bar and meet new and old friends. All whilst sharing your love of all things drama.
The play is yet to be confirmed – keep your eyes on social media pages for more information.
Age 16+
Free to attend.
Location
Phoenix Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
Event Details
The magician Herr Drosselmeyer needs to save his nephew. Hans-Peter has been transformed into a Nutcracker; the only way to save him is for the Nutcracker to defeat the Mouse
Event Details
The magician Herr Drosselmeyer needs to save his nephew. Hans-Peter has been transformed into a Nutcracker; the only way to save him is for the Nutcracker to defeat the Mouse King and find a girl to love and care for him.
A flicker of hope comes in the form of the young Clara, whom Drosselmeyer meets at a Christmas party. With some magic, a cosy Christmas gathering turns into a marvellous adventure.
Peter Wright’s The Nutcracker has enchanted audiences since its 1984 premiere by the Company. Featuring Tchaikovsky’s most familiar melodies and brought to life by Julia Trevelyan Oman’s exquisite designs, The Nutcracker is sure to be a festive firecracker for all ages.
Duration: 3h 10m minutes, one interval (to be confirmed)
Cast:
To be confirmed
Creatives:
Choreography PETER WRIGHT after LEV IVANOV
Music PYOTR IL’YICH TCHAIKOVSKY
Conductor KOEN KESSELS
Original Scenario MARIUS PETIPA after E.T.A. HOFFMANN
Production and Scenario PETER WRIGHT
Designer JULIA TREVELYAN OMAN
Lighting Designer MARK HENDERSON
Production Consultant ROLAND JOHN WILEY
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286054
Event Details
Based on Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s 2015 memoir of the true story of the abduction of his father, Rubens Paiva, by the Brazilian military dictatorship. Relates the family’s struggles to find
Event Details
Based on Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s 2015 memoir of the true story of the abduction of his father, Rubens Paiva, by the Brazilian military dictatorship.
Relates the family’s struggles to find out what had happened to him and their harassment and intimidation by the dictatorship. Best foreign film Academy Awards 2025.
Director: Walter Salles
Featuring: Fernanda Torres, Selton Mello, Fernanda Montenegro
Details: Brazil | Subtitles | 2024 | 2h 18m
Tickets: £7.50. Members & Friends £6.50. U18s £5.50. Film Society members free.
See here for details of Film Society membership.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285605
Event Details
The show where every child gets a present from Santa! Following last year’s sell-out performances, Honalee Media are delighted to present a brand new show this festive season. Christmas is the
Event Details
The show where every child gets a present from Santa! Following last year’s sell-out performances, Honalee Media are delighted to present a brand new show this festive season.
Christmas is the busiest time of year at the North Pole, when Father Christmas makes presents to deliver across the whole world and when everyone gets ready for Santa’s Christmas Party! But this year somebody has been up to mischief…
Dotty the Elf’s decorations have gone missing, Dasher the Reindeer’s party games are broken, and what has happened to Pompom the Penguin’s Christmas music? It looks as though somebody wants to stop Santa’s Christmas Party – and that someone is Jack Frost!
Help get Santa’s Christmas Party back on track in an adventure full of fun, festive songs and party games. Then meet Santa at his home in the North Pole, where every child will receive a special present from him, after the most Christmassy Christmas show ever – HO-HO-HO!
Songs include festive favourites like Jingle Bells, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, The Twelve Days Of Christmas, We Wish You A Merry Christmas and more!
Santa’s Christmas Party is a 45 minute, interactive family show, particularly suitable for 2-8 year olds, after which the adventure continues as each child gets the chance to receive a special present from Father Christmas in our popular meet, greet and treat!
For more info, see www.santashows.co.uk.
Tickets: £11.50 adults, £10.50 under 18s, £42 families of 4 (2 adults and 2 under 18s).
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1245088
Event Details
The show where every child gets a present from Santa! Following last year’s sell-out performances, Honalee Media are delighted to present a brand new show this festive season. Christmas is the
Event Details
The show where every child gets a present from Santa! Following last year’s sell-out performances, Honalee Media are delighted to present a brand new show this festive season.
Christmas is the busiest time of year at the North Pole, when Father Christmas makes presents to deliver across the whole world and when everyone gets ready for Santa’s Christmas Party! But this year somebody has been up to mischief…
Dotty the Elf’s decorations have gone missing, Dasher the Reindeer’s party games are broken, and what has happened to Pompom the Penguin’s Christmas music? It looks as though somebody wants to stop Santa’s Christmas Party – and that someone is Jack Frost!
Help get Santa’s Christmas Party back on track in an adventure full of fun, festive songs and party games. Then meet Santa at his home in the North Pole, where every child will receive a special present from him, after the most Christmassy Christmas show ever – HO-HO-HO!
Songs include festive favourites like Jingle Bells, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, The Twelve Days Of Christmas, We Wish You A Merry Christmas and more!
Santa’s Christmas Party is a 45 minute, interactive family show, particularly suitable for 2-8 year olds, after which the adventure continues as each child gets the chance to receive a special present from Father Christmas in our popular meet, greet and treat!
For more info, see www.santashows.co.uk.
Tickets: £11.50 adults, £10.50 under 18s, £42 families of 4 (2 adults and 2 under 18s).
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1245088
Event Details
The magician Herr Drosselmeyer needs to save his nephew. Hans-Peter has been transformed into a Nutcracker; the only way to save him is for the Nutcracker to defeat the Mouse
Event Details
The magician Herr Drosselmeyer needs to save his nephew. Hans-Peter has been transformed into a Nutcracker; the only way to save him is for the Nutcracker to defeat the Mouse King and find a girl to love and care for him.
A flicker of hope comes in the form of the young Clara, whom Drosselmeyer meets at a Christmas party. With some magic, a cosy Christmas gathering turns into a marvellous adventure.
Peter Wright’s The Nutcracker has enchanted audiences since its 1984 premiere by the Company. Featuring Tchaikovsky’s most familiar melodies and brought to life by Julia Trevelyan Oman’s exquisite designs, The Nutcracker is sure to be a festive firecracker for all ages.
Duration: 3h 10m minutes, one interval (to be confirmed)
Please note: This is a special inclusive/children’s screening. Lights will not be lowered all the way and we will show the Royal Ballet’s animated Story of the Nutcracker before the main performance. Audience members will be free to come in and out of the auditorium.
Cast:
To be confirmed
Creatives:
Choreography PETER WRIGHT after LEV IVANOV
Music PYOTR IL’YICH TCHAIKOVSKY
Conductor KOEN KESSELS
Original Scenario MARIUS PETIPA after E.T.A. HOFFMANN
Production and Scenario PETER WRIGHT
Designer JULIA TREVELYAN OMAN
Lighting Designer MARK HENDERSON
Production Consultant ROLAND JOHN WILEY
Tickets: All £5.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286054
Event Details
A black and comic thriller set in the frigid winter landscape of Minnesota, concerning a crime that gets out of control, with some gruesome results.Regarded as a stand-out in
Event Details
A black and comic thriller set in the frigid winter landscape of Minnesota, concerning a crime that gets out of control, with some gruesome results.
Regarded as a stand-out in the Coen brothers’ catalogue and for Frances McDormand’s outstanding performance as a persistent policewoman.
Director: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
Featuring: William H Macy, Frances McDormand, Steve Buscemi
Details: UK/USA | Language: English | 1996 | 1h 38m
Tickets: £7.50. Members & Friends £6.50. U18s £5.50. Film Society members free.
See here for details of Film Society membership.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1285606
Event Details
Olivier Award-winner Jack Lowden (Slow Horses, Dunkirk) is joined by Emmy and BAFTA-winner Martin Freeman (The Hobbit, The Responder) in the critically acclaimed and subversively funny new play by David
Event Details
Olivier Award-winner Jack Lowden (Slow Horses, Dunkirk) is joined by Emmy and BAFTA-winner Martin Freeman (The Hobbit, The Responder) in the critically acclaimed and subversively funny new play by David Ireland.
After years in the 12-step programme of Alcoholics Anonymous, James becomes a sponsor to newcomer Luka. The pair bond over black coffee, trade stories and build a fragile friendship out of their shared experiences. But as Luka approaches step five – the moment of confession – dangerous truths emerge, threatening the trust on which both of their recoveries depend.
Finn den Hertog directs this provocative and entertaining production filmed live from @sohoplace on London’s West End.
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1277296
January
Event Details
At one of her lavish parties, celebrated Parisian courtesan Violetta is introduced to Alfredo Germont. The two fall madly in love, and though hesitant to leave behind her life of
Event Details
At one of her lavish parties, celebrated Parisian courtesan Violetta is introduced to Alfredo Germont. The two fall madly in love, and though hesitant to leave behind her life of luxury and freedom, Violetta follows her heart.
But the young couple’s happiness is short-lived, as the harsh realities of life soon come knocking.
As intimate as it is sumptuous, La traviata features some of opera’s most famous melodies, and is a star vehicle for its leading soprano role sung by Ermonela Jaho. In director Richard Eyre’s world of seductive grandeur, the tender and devastating beauty at the centre of Verdi’s opera shines bright.
Sung in Italian with subtitles | Duration: 4h (to be confirmed)
Cast:
Violetta Valéry ERMONELA JAHO
Alfredo Germont GIOVANNI SALA
Giorgio Germont ALEKSEI ISAEV
Annina VEENA AKAMA-MAKIA
Doctor Grenvil BARNABY REA
Flora Bervoix ELLEN PEARSON
Baron Douphol SAM HIRD
Gastone de Letorières GIORGI GULIASHVILI
Marquis d’Obigny OSSIAN HUSKINSON
Creatives:
Music GIUSEPPE VERDI
Conductor ANTONELLO MANACORDA
Director RICHARD EYRE
Designer BOB CROWLEY
Lighting Designer JEAN KALMAN
Director of Movement JANE GIBSON
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286059
Event Details
Which baroque composers broke the rules, either personally or musically? We will explore both in this concert of chamber and larger works, with members of Salisbury Baroque. Tickets: £15. Members &
Event Details
Which baroque composers broke the rules, either personally or musically?
We will explore both in this concert of chamber and larger works, with members of Salisbury Baroque.
Tickets: £15. Members & Friends £12. Under 18s free.
Location
St James Church
Shaftesbury, SP7 8HG
ProgrammeID
1286508
Event Details
A musical conversation between ‘Guardian Angel’ (von Biber) and ‘The Devil’s Trill’ (Tartini) With Emma-Marie Kabanova.Tickets: £12. Members & Friends £10. Under 18s free.
Event Details
A musical conversation between ‘Guardian Angel’ (von Biber) and ‘The Devil’s Trill’ (Tartini) With Emma-Marie Kabanova.
Tickets: £12. Members & Friends £10. Under 18s free.
Location
Phoenix Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286517
Event Details
A mix of English and Italian baroque music sung to the lute. Angela can be seen in the film The Favourite, singing to the court of Queen Anne. Tickets: £12. Members &
Event Details
A mix of English and Italian baroque music sung to the lute.
Angela can be seen in the film The Favourite, singing to the court of Queen Anne.
Tickets: £12. Members & Friends £10. Under 18s free.
Location
Phoenix Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286518
Event Details
A panel of plucky defenders battles it out! Four playwrights of the Baroque era – Aphra Behn, Ben Jonson, Thomas Otway and Susanne Centlivre – will be championed for the title
Event Details
A panel of plucky defenders battles it out!
Four playwrights of the Baroque era – Aphra Behn, Ben Jonson, Thomas Otway and Susanne Centlivre – will be championed for the title of ‘Best’ by Diana Banham, Liz Foster, Sebastian Hayes and Catherine Simmonds. You will decide!
Tickets: £5. Under 18s free.
Location
Phoenix Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286519
Event Details
17th and 18th century theatrical music inspired by Shakespeare and others.Tickets: £15. Members & Friends £12. Under 18s free.
Event Details
17th and 18th century theatrical music inspired by Shakespeare and others.
Tickets: £15. Members & Friends £12. Under 18s free.
Location
St Peter's Church
High St, Shaftesbury SP7 8LY
ProgrammeID
1286520
Event Details
Talk by Peter Wood – a first-person reenactor – about Shaftesbury in the English Civil War. Meet Master James Wood, late of the King’s Army, proud of his past service, but
Event Details
Talk by Peter Wood – a first-person reenactor – about Shaftesbury in the English Civil War.
Meet Master James Wood, late of the King’s Army, proud of his past service, but fearful for the future.
Tickets: £12. Members & Friends £10. Under 18s free.
Location
Phoenix Room
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286527
Event Details
Baroque and early folk music, with a chirrup of birdsong. Played by Rebecca Prosser (tenor, alto and soprano recorders) and Sharon Gould (clavichord). Tickets: £12. Members & Friends £10. Under 18s free.
Event Details
Baroque and early folk music, with a chirrup of birdsong.
Played by Rebecca Prosser (tenor, alto and soprano recorders) and Sharon Gould (clavichord).
Tickets: £12. Members & Friends £10. Under 18s free.
Location
Grosvenor Arms Hotel Assembly Room
High St, Shaftesbury SP7 8JA
ProgrammeID
1286540
Event Details
A demonstration of Baroque dance techniques by Steps in Time. Join in or just watch! Tickets: £10. Members & Friends £8. Under 18s free.
Event Details
A demonstration of Baroque dance techniques by Steps in Time.
Join in or just watch!
Tickets: £10. Members & Friends £8. Under 18s free.
Location
The Guildhall
The Town Hall, 21 High Street, Shaftesbury SP7 8JE
ProgrammeID
1286541
Event Details
Sarah Small’s solo viola da gamba programme includes pieces from her recent cycling UK concert tour, such as Hume’s Good Againe and Forqueray’s La Girouette. Tickets: £12. Members & Friends £10.
Event Details
Sarah Small’s solo viola da gamba programme includes pieces from her recent cycling UK concert tour, such as Hume’s Good Againe and Forqueray’s La Girouette.
Tickets: £12. Members & Friends £10. Under 18s free.
Location
Grosvenor Arms Hotel Assembly Room
High St, Shaftesbury SP7 8JA
ProgrammeID
1287382
February
Event Details
Picasso: A Rebel In Paris takes an unprecedented and alternative look at the maestro of modernity. The film focuses on the story of a young immigrant, poor but destined to
Event Details
Picasso: A Rebel In Paris takes an unprecedented and alternative look at the
maestro of modernity.
The film focuses on the story of a young immigrant, poor but destined to become one of the most important icons of the 20th century.
The film moves continuously in and out of the Musée Picasso in Paris, which has the largest existing collection dedicated to the painter with 6,000 masterpieces and 200,000 pieces of archive material, and follows Picasso through the Parisian neighbourhoods where he lived, from the early days in ateliers with no heating to the large middle-class apartments where his success began: a physical and intellectual journey to gain a deeper understanding of his work and spirit.
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1289507
March
Event Details
The peasant girl Giselle has fallen in love with Albrecht. When she discovers that he is actually a nobleman promised to another, she kills herself in despair. Her spirit joins the
Event Details
The peasant girl Giselle has fallen in love with Albrecht. When she discovers that he is actually a nobleman promised to another, she kills herself in despair.
Her spirit joins the Wilis: the vengeful ghosts of women hell-bent on killing any man who crosses their path in a dance to the death. Wracked with guilt, Albrecht visits Giselle’s grave, where he must face the Wilis – and Giselle’s ghost.
Peter Wright’s 1985 production of this quintessential Romantic ballet is a classic of The Royal Ballet repertory. Set to Adolphe Adam’s evocative score and with atmospheric designs by John Macfarlane, Giselle conjures up the earthly and otherworldly realms in a tale of love, betrayal and redemption.
Duration: 3h 30m (to be confirmed)
Cast:
To be confirmed
Creatives:
Choreography MARIUS PETIPA after JEAN CORALLI and JULES PERROT
Music ADOLPHE ADAM Edited by LARS PAYNE
Conductor VELLO PAHN
Scenario THÉOPHILE GAUTIER after HEINRICH HEINE
Production and Additional Choreography PETER WRIGHT
Designer JOHN MACFARLANE
Original Lighting JENNIFER TIPTON Re-created by DAVID FINN
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286062
Event Details
Olivier Award-winner Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi) is Hamlet in this fearless, contemporary take on Shakespeare’s famous tragedy.Trapped between duty and doubt, surrounded by
Event Details
Olivier Award-winner Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi) is Hamlet in this fearless, contemporary take on Shakespeare’s famous tragedy.
Trapped between duty and doubt, surrounded by power and privilege, young Prince Hamlet dares to ask the ultimate question – you know the one.
National Theatre Deputy Artistic Director, Robert Hastie (Standing at the Sky’s Edge, Operation Mincemeat) directs this sharp, stylish and darkly funny reimagining.
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1277301
April
Event Details
Princess Pamina has been captured. Her mother, the Queen of the Night, tasks the young Prince Tamino with her daughter’s rescue. But when Tamino and his friendly sidekick, Papageno, embark on
Event Details
Princess Pamina has been captured. Her mother, the Queen of the Night, tasks the young Prince Tamino with her daughter’s rescue.
But when Tamino and his friendly sidekick, Papageno, embark on their adventure, they soon learn that when it comes to the quest for love, nothing is as it really seems. Guided by a magic flute, they encounter monsters, villains, and a mysterious brotherhood of men – but help, it turns out, comes when you least expect it.
Mozart’s fantastical opera glitters in David McVicar’s enchanting production. A star cast including Julia Bullock as Pamina, Amitai Pati as Tamino, Huw Montague Rendall as Papageno, Kathryn Lewek as the Queen of the Night, and Soloman Howard as Sarastro, led by French conductor Marie Jacquot in her Covent Garden debut.
Sung in German with subtitles | Duration: 3h 30m (to be confirmed)
Cast:
Pamina JULIA BULLOCK
Tamino AMITAI PATI
Papageno HUW MONTAGUE RENDALL
Queen of the Night KATHRYN LEWEK
Sarastro SOLOMAN HOWARD
Monostatos GERHARD SIEGEL
Creatives:
Music WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART
Conductor MARIE JACQUOT
Director DAVID MCVICAR
Designer JOHN MACFARLANE
Lighting Designer PAULE CONSTABLE
Movement Director LEAH HAUSMAN
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286065
May
Event Details
Following her acclaimed 2024 company debut in Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, soprano Asmik Grigorian returns to the Met as Tatiana, the lovestruck young heroine in this ardent operatic adaptation of Pushkin. Baritone
Event Details
Following her acclaimed 2024 company debut in Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, soprano Asmik Grigorian returns to the Met as Tatiana, the lovestruck young heroine in this ardent operatic adaptation of Pushkin.
Baritone Igor Golovatenko reprises his portrayal of the urbane Onegin, who realises his affection for her all too late.
The Met’s evocative production, directed by Tony Award–winner Deborah Warner, “offers a beautifully detailed reading of … Tchaikovsky’s lyrical romance” (The Telegraph).
Sung in Russian with English subtitles | Duration: 4h 5m with two intervals (to be confirmed)
Cast:
Tatiana ASMIK GRIGORIAN
Olga MARIA BARAKOVA
Filippyevna STEPHANIE BLYTHE
Lenski STANISLAS DE BARBEYRAC
Eugene Onegin IGOR GOLOVATENKO
Prince Gremin ALEXANDER TSYMBALYUK
Creatives:
Music PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY
Conductor TIMUR ZANGIEV
Director DEBORAH WARNER
Set Designer TOM PYE
Costume Designer CHLOE OBOLENSKY
Lighting Designer JEAN KALMAN
Projection Designer IAN WILLIAM GALLOWAY and FINN ROSS
Choreographer KIM BRANDSTRUP
Tickets: £15. Members, Friends and under 18s £12.50.
Location
Theatre
13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR
ProgrammeID
1286068