I am a Dorset based artist with a huge passion for painting wildlife. 

I love using different mediums to create a diverse range of illustrations and paintings, with the hope to bring awareness to some beautiful but endangered animals we share this planet with. I’ve been focusing on African wildlife and have enjoyed learning all about their different circumstances and difficulties they face, but it has given me a huge drive to do something about it.

I’m hoping to raise money from my artwork to help a range of projects and charities that have put their all in to protecting these beautiful animals.

Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.

An exhibition of painting and photography by mother and daughter, Sharon and Amelia Bielby.

Usually found at their family-run studios and gallery, the Old Tannery Studios in Yeovil, this collection is often inspired by the landscape and capturing light and hope.

Meet the artists and hear Fringe musicians on the afternoon of Saturday 27th July.

Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.

Returning to Shaftesbury Fringe after their success winning ‘Best Overall Act in Fringe 2023’ and ‘Best Dance, Theatre, Musical and Cabaret Performance 2023’, join our Music and Drama Group’s Youth Theatre for their production of Honk!

Honk! is the musical adaptation of the Hans Christian Anderson’s The Ugly Duckling and is full of good songs, joy and an underlying message of tolerance. It is suitable for all ages and will leave you smiling with joy of a wonderful story.

Music by George Stiles.
Book and Lyrics by Anthony Drewe.

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International. All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI. See www.mtishows.co.uk.

Tickets: £5

Three of the South Coast’s best comedians have dared to venture past the New Forest, fleeing West until their petrol ran out conveniently in Shaftesbury town centre.

Seeing as they’re here anyway, experience Ann Brown, Joe Fortis and Christie Grattan!

Age 18+

Tickets: Pass-The-Hat/ Pay What It’s Worth

Join award-winning punslinger Darren Walsh as he road-tests some new jokes, with some old jokes thrown in for good measure. Warning – contains puns!

Please don’t come if you don’t like puns, like: ‘My Scottish girlfriend got drunk on Martini Extra Dry. I couldn’t believe the stuff that came out of vermouth’ and ‘Tom Holland is short for Thomas Netherlands’ or ‘My boss only hires people who like Blur. He’s Oasist.’ That kind of thing…

“Punbelievable!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Mirror

WINNER Joke of Edinburgh Fringe

WINNER Joke of Leicester Comedy Festival

“Unstoppable tsunami of stupid puns.” Chortle

Age 18+.

Tickets: £10

Don’t miss this special performance from a new collaboration in acoustic folk song with Jo (Orkney based) and Anne-Louise (Shaftesbury) born out of last year’s Fringe.

Jo is renowned for her soulful and expressive vocal and Anne-Louise is known locally for her enchanting ‘Mermaid Nerissa’ and more. Together they share a love of song, particularly of the sea. They have a natural and friendly stage presence and enjoy sharing their stories with their audiences.

Be sure for an absorbing musical time with heartfelt songs accompanied on acoustic guitar. Come by and enjoy a song with us!

Tickets: Pay What It’s Worth

Virtuoso pianist Mike Hatchard plays the original Gershwin piano version of this iconic work.

In addition, there’ll be music from Chopin, Bach and Gershwin; also stunning improvisation and tracks from his album ‘Mike Hatchard on the Radio Three Piano’.

Tickets: £10.

Returning to Shaftesbury Fringe after their success winning ‘Best Overall Act in Fringe 2023’ and ‘Best Dance, Theatre, Musical and Cabaret Performance 2023’, join our Music and Drama Group’s Youth Theatre for their production of Anger Management, by Robert Scott.

A group anger management session takes a turn for the worse when the facilitator suggests the participants re-enact the things that got them sent there in the first place. Age 12+.

Tickets: Pass-the-hat

The Great Baldini navigates the world of illusion in an all-new magic show. What’s real, what’s magic, what’s a dream? Can you tell the difference?

Presenting illusions from throughout histrory, the Great Baldini will astound, bewilder and entertain. Come, explore the Magic Matrix with Baldini!

“Excellent” Broadway Baby

“Delightful to see.” World Magic Review

“Wonderful, engaging, very impressive.” BritishTheatre.com

“Elegant magic show with sparkling conjuring.” Wee Review.

Fourth triumphant year at the Shaftesbury Fringe. Buxton Fringe Award Winner in 2022 and 2023

Age 7+.

Tickets: £9 Adults, £7 U18s, £25 Family (two Adults and two U18s)

Scott is a teetotal comedian from Glasgow, whose comedy and life is shaped by his porridge, smoothie and exercise addictions.

It’s through these addictions, Scott’s latest instalment ‘A Fine Line – Work in Progress’ looks at day to day life and the fine line between success and failure.

Age 18+.

Cancelled.

Paintings to transport the viewer to places familiar and new, from Cornwall to London via Shaftesbury and Sherborne.

Figures, landscapes and still life. Works from the studio and adventures ‘en plein air’. Framed feature works and bargains from the browser.

Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

After leaving the business one year earlier, battle-scarred stuntman Colt Seavers springs back into action when the star of a big studio movie suddenly disappears. As the mystery surrounding the missing actor deepens, Colt soon finds himself ensnared in a sinister plot that pushes him to the edge of a fall more dangerous than any stunt.

Director: David Leitch

Featuring: Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Hannah Waddingham

Details: US. Language: English. 2024. 2h 6m.

Showings:

6th August – 2pm Tuesday Matinée

7th August – 7.30pm

Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.

Tickets: From £5 to £7.50

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

An exhibition of stained glass and landscapes.

Maxine Chandler is a traditional and contemporary stained glass artist specialising in locally inspired free-standing and window art. Maxine crafts individual pieces of glass art and runs courses to teach both traditional leaded stained glass and copper foil techniques. She also takes commissions for bespoke windows and pieces. Please visit www.dorsetstainedglass.com for more details.

John Dimech has been painting the Dorset landscape for a very long time. He mixes traditional with the contemporary in vision and colours. Please visit www.johndimech.com for more details.

Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.

After leaving the business one year earlier, battle-scarred stuntman Colt Seavers springs back into action when the star of a big studio movie suddenly disappears. As the mystery surrounding the missing actor deepens, Colt soon finds himself ensnared in a sinister plot that pushes him to the edge of a fall more dangerous than any stunt.

Director: David Leitch

Featuring: Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Hannah Waddingham

Details: US. Language: English. 2024. 2h 6m.

Showings:

6th August – 2pm Tuesday Matinée

7th August – 7.30pm

Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.

Tickets: From £5 to £7.50

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

British soprano Letitia Stevens will perform music by Samuel Barber and his circle, including those sung by his opera-singer aunt.

Letitia and her American accompanist, Bonnie Donham, are bringing a flavour of the American musical scene on this returned visit to Shaftesbury from the States. A previous hit at the Fringe, both have received high accolades and honours for their work.

This recital includes works by Gounod, Mozart and Verdi, as well as Barber, such as his ‘Knoxville: Summer of 1915’, composed in 1947.

Tickets: £12. Members and Friends £10. Under 18s free.

After discovering she can see everyone’s imaginary friends, a girl embarks on a magical adventure to reconnect forgotten imaginary friends with their kids.

IF stars Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Cailey Fleming, Fiona Shaw, and the voices of Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr and Steve Carell alongside many more as the wonderfully unique characters that reflect the incredible power of a child’s imagination.

Director: John Krasinski

Featuring: Cailey Fleming, Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Fiona Shaw, Phoebe Waller-Bridge
Louis Gossett Jr, Steve Carell

Details: US. Language: English. 2024. 1h 44m.

Showings:

13th August – 2pm Tuesday Matinée

14th August – 7.30pm

Please note: Our Tuesday Matinées feature subtitles for the hard of hearing and will include an interval.

Tickets: From £5 to £7.50

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

Wendy Gregory and invited artists will be exhibiting work in a variety of mediums, at this contemporary art exhibition.

• Mary Barnes – Plein air landscapes
• Saskia Darell – Acrylic and collaged work
• Tiana Diakova – Giclee prints of oil paintings
• Wendy Gregory – Mixed media landscapes
• Kate Groechel – Contemporary oil paintings
• Denise Lonsdale – Ceramic animal sculptures
• Simon Melican – Hand thrown pottery
• Mary Quinton-Edwards – Mixed media
• Judith Ryde – Watercolours

Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.

Come and hear how you can get involved in this warm and funny play about female friendship, with three great roles for female performers. 

Aged 18, three women join forces at university. Life is fun. Living is intense. Together they feel unassailable. Crackling with wisdom and wit, Amelia Bullmore’s play ‘Di and Viv and Rose’ is a humorous and thoughtful exploration of friendship’s impact on life and life’s impact on friendship. Actors to be mid 30s to mid 40s but able to play down to age 18.

This will be a studio production performed in The Rutter Room at the end of November. Join us at the interest evening on Tuesday 3rd September at 7.30pm to find out more…

If you are interested but can’t be there on the 3rd September, then please email stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk for more information.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

An exhibition of painting, photography and poetry reflecting on the visual and emotional effect that the hours between dusk and dawn have on us.

Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.

The award-winning creators of Austen’s Women, A Christmas Carol, I, Elizabeth, Female Gothic, Christmas Gothic, and A Room of One’s Own are back with a brand new solo comedy show.

Jane Austen’s magnificently crafted tale of manipulation and manners. Meet devil-may-care black widow, Lady Susan, (“the most accomplished coquette in England”), hunting down not one, but two, fortunes; oppressed, rebellious daughter Frederica; long-suffering sister-in-law Catherine; family matriarch Mrs De Courcy; and insouciant best friend, Alicia.

Return to the Regency (or rather, Georgian) in this wickedly funny tale of society and the women trapped within it; their struggles, their desires, their temptations and manipulations – and at the vanguard, Lady Susan: charming, scheming, witty, and powerful; taking on society and making it her own. But has she met her match?

Based on Jane Austen’s first full-length work from 1794, the piece is performed by Rebecca Vaughan and directed by Andrew Margerison. This is Austen as you’ve never seen her before!

Created in collaboration with The Old Town Hall, Hemel Hempstead.

12+.

★★★★★ ‘A towering performance‘ (The Scotsman)

★★★★★ ‘A luscious sweeping tale’ (The i)

★★★★★ ‘Quite simply: astounding’ (Broadway Baby)

★★★★★ ’Outstanding…gripping… Vaughan is never less than magnetic’ (Three Weeks)

★★★★★ ‘If you haven’t seen Dyad Productions’ work before, you simply must’ (British Theatre Guide)

‘Some of the most electrifying character work available, up to and including Berkoff’ (Fringe Review)

THREE WEEKS Cumulative Body of Work Award-Winners, 2018

Tickets: £18. Members & Friends, U18s £16.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

Have you ever wanted to get involved behind the scenes with one of our Music and Drama Group’s productions, or are you creative but don’t want to be on the stage itself, and not quite sure where to start? 

Well, here is a chance to take part in workshops and learn more about getting involved. Whether it’s set design, being backstage, directing, production photography, costumes, lighting, producing or directing, this day will allow you to find out more.

Workshops will be running from 11am – 2pm. Timings and how to book onto them will be available very soon via the website. Come and get involved behind the scenes! 15+

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

Time and space to work on your own writing projects.

Find some accountability and put pen to paper. Come and join us in a mutually creative workshop to write stories, novels, poetry or whatever you need time to write.

Second Tuesday of every month, 7.30pm. For details email tiggyhayes@hotmail.com or call 01747 823699.

Cost: £5 per session.

Come and join us to find out all about our Pantomime for 2025. 

If you are interested in being on stage or would like to join the amazing backstage team, this evening will have all the information you need to get involved with this unique show. The performance will be at the end of January/beginning of February.

If you are interested but can’t be there on the 10th September, then please email stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk for more information.

Age 9+

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

My working practice is quiet and meditative.

Through the repetition of white minuscule dots creating delicate gossamer lines, forming clouds of net like structures, this series of drawings inspired by the Hindu/Buddhist story ‘Indra’s Net’, become visual contemplations exploring the interconnectedness and dissolution of all phenomena.

Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

There’s something about the feel of wool that intrigues me. Making ‘something from nothing’ is pretty special too.

I’m a felter, who paints with fibre, and an artist who felts paintings… rather hairy ones! You’ll see at my exhibition! All are welcome (including dogs!).

Open 10am to 4pm daily. Free admission.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

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.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

Kerry Le Bern sympathetically re-creates the nuances and detailed characteristics of the beautiful soulful contralto tones of Karen Carpenter, whilst telling the tragic story of a life ended far too abruptly.

“It’s just the way that I feel. I’ve never copied anybody or styled myself after anybody. The way my voice showed up was a kind of accident in the first place. – Karen Carpenter, BBC Radio 2 interview with Ray Moore, 1981.

And what an ‘accident’ that was! One that produced perhaps one of the best female vocalists of all time. This exciting new show, ‘Rainy Days, Mondays & Good Old Dreams’ is much more than a Carpenters tribute; it sensitively explores the music and lives of the Carpenters from their early attempts to get a ‘break’, to some of their greatest influences, such as the Beatles, Burt Bacharach & the Beach Boys, as well as the challenges faced by the incomparable sibling duo along their journey to stardom and, ultimately, to tragedy.

Kerry says, “I adored The Carpenters from an early age and in the 1970s I often used to pretend I was Karen Carpenter as I sang along to the songs from the ‘Close To You’ album on my trusty cassette player.” Kerry continues, “I want to bring something very special to my audiences with this show, I want them to hear Karen’s vocals through my own interpretation, but I also want to tell their story, I want people to go away saying ‘how different’, ‘how fascinating’ and ‘I didn’t know that’.”

Kerry is delighted to be joined by the supremely talented Alfonso Cavassa on keys for this show and the two have formed a close collaboration to bring their respective talents to bear. Together, they will transport you right back to the Carpenters’ magic of the 1970s and early 1980s with their unique and insightful performance. At one moment they will have you tapping your toes and singing along, and in the next, they will reach out and touch your very soul with their poignant rendition of these classic songs.

This is a show to be experienced and not missed.

Tickets: £18. Members & Friends, Under 18s £15.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

The world-famous Treorchy Male Choir are performing in Shaftesbury for the first time and we are delighted and privileged to welcome them.

An evening of glorious, uplifting song will fill our auditorium and leave you stunned by the perfection of their harmony and power.

Tickets: £25

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

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.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

The Music and Drama Group is a dynamic and creative group that brings amateur dramatic theatre to life at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

We stage a core of four shows a year, from a regular winter pantomime in January, a spring play, a summer show and an autumn play, along with other performance opportunities along the way. We also run three thriving Youth Theatre groups for ages 7-20 yrs old.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the spotlight, the creative pull of behind-the-scenes magic, or the intricacy of scriptwriting, there’s a role for everyone in the world of Music and Drama. From acting and directing to set design, lighting, costume creation, and more, Shaftesbury Arts Centre productions are a vibrant tapestry of talents that come together to tell compelling stories. No matter your experience level or area of interest, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Dive in, learn, collaborate, and become a part of our ever-growing theatrical family.
Our aim is to produce high quality and enjoyable theatre experiences in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The Music and Drama Group meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings during rehearsals for shows, from 7.30pm in the Arts Centre. Age restriction is 9+ for our main shows and 7+ for Youth Theatre.

If you would like to get involved, then we would love to hear from you. Find out more here, or email us at stage@shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk.

The award-winning Dyad Productions, (A Room of One’s Own, I, Elizabeth, Austen’s Women, Female Gothic) who have toured their sell-out festive show Christmas Gothic since 2015, now bring their magic to Dickens’ classic and perennially relevant ghost story.

It’s Christmas Eve, and the miserly misanthrope, Ebenezer Scrooge, is about to have a ghostly night he’ll never forget. Dickens’ festive, immortal tale of redemption and compassion is brought to life in Dyad’s inimitable solo style.

Draw near for an evening of mistletoe and merriment in the company of Marley, Fezziwig, and Cratchit et al to discover the true meaning of Christmas: tenderness for the past, courage for the present, and hope for the future.

Ebenezer lives in us all, and this glorious tale reminds us how not to give in to the Scrooge within.

Taking inspiration from Dickens’ original performances of his own work and utilising the brilliant narrator of the novel to bring the story to life, this solo piece is performed by Andrew Margerison (Frantic Assembly’s Fatherland, Macbeth), and directed by Rebecca Vaughan.

10+.

‘If you haven’t seen Dyad Productions’ work before, you simply must’ British Theatre Guide

THREE WEEKS Cumulative Body of Work Award-Winners, 2018

★★★★★ ‘Intelligently adapted, beautifully performed… entrancing’ (British Theatre Guide)

★★★★★ ’Richly re-imagined, exquisitely evocative’ (Edinburgh Guide)

★★★★★ ‘A towering performance…assured…rich’ (The Scotsman)

★★★★★ ‘Outstanding… gripping… never less than magnetic’ (Three Weeks)

 

Tickets: £18. Members & Friends, U18s £16.

The show where every child gets a present from Santa! Following last year’s sell-out performances of Santa’s Christmas Wish, Honalee Media are delighted to present their next hit Santa show this Christmas.

It really is the most wonderful time of the year, so it’s no surprise that everyone at the North Pole is super-excited as Christmas draws near! Father Christmas is busy making toys, Dotty the Elf is decorating the Christmas tree and Dasher the Reindeer is getting presents onto his sleigh – but then they meet a lost penguin who has never even heard of Christmas…

Impossible! But how to teach him all about Christmas? Dare they open the door marked ‘For Christmas Emergencies Only’? And can you help unleash the magic of Christmas by pulling one of Santa’s Christmas Crackers?

Join Father Christmas and friends for a fun, festive, musical adventure to discover the wonder of Christmas – you may even get to pull a cracker with Dotty the Elf! Santa’s Christmas Cracker is a 45 minute, interactive family show, particularly suitable for 2-8 year olds. Afterwards the adventure continues as each child gets to meet Father Christmas and receive a specially wrapped present from him – it’s the most Christmassy Christmas show ever, Ho-Ho-Ho!

Songs include festive favourites like Jingle Bells, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Twelve Days Of Christmas, Deck The Halls, We Wish You A Merry Christmas and many more!

“It was perfect, full of fun, singing and laughter, what better way to start the festive season!” – Mummy Monster blog

“The Santa Shows have become our Christmas tradition and we love them! Perfect engagement with the children, lots of audience participation and the children were beside themselves when Father Christmas gave them a present after the show. Wonderful value for money and top rate entertainment!” – Natalie D, mum of Rae

“Eyes lit up full of wonder and joy – as my children walked away from receiving their gift they whispered, “That was the real Santa!” – Families North Hampshire

For more info, see www.santashows.co.uk.

Tickets: £11.50 adults, £10.50 under 18s, £41 families of 4 (2 adults and 2 under 18s).