What’s On gives you the opportunity to explore the events in and around West Berkshire. Workshops to learn new skills, fun things to do with the family and the perfect way to relax with friends and find things to do.
Micklems Farm, Knowl Hill Common, Knowl Hill, Berkshire RG10 9YD
Silk Painting
All silk paintings start out with a piece of un-dyed pure silk, a natural product, woven from the cocoon of the silk moth. For this project we are using Habotai 8, which has an even weave of 8 threads to the milimetre, anything heavier is difficult to see through to trace a design.
For this workshop we are using silk paints which are easy to use and are then fixed using an iron. The colours can be used full strength or diluted with water to obtain pastel shades. A selection of colours are available for you to use or you can mix your own shades from the primary colours. We will be using a water soluble out-liner by Jacquard, which can be washed out of the silk with warm water, after the paints have been fixed.
A starter set of paints, resist and a piece of silk 30 x 40cm are available to purchase to continue working at home.
Please bring:
A packed lunch
Included on the day:
All materials
Expert tuition
1 to 1 guidance
Detailed demonstrations
A selection of tea, freshly brewed coffee, biscuits and delicious cakes. If you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies, please feel free to bring along your own provisions/milk alternatives etc.
And of course you take your wonderful creations from the day. If you share any photographs of your day here and/or your finished work, we’d love to see them so please tag us @micklemsfarmcreativeworkshops or use the hashtag #micklemsfarmcreativeworkshops.
Terms – Fee is payable on booking. If, having booked, you can no longer attend, we are unable to offer a refund or transfer you to another workshop. However, you may nominate someone else to attend the workshop or class in your place by notifying us using the contact page on the Micklems Farm website. We reserve the right to cancel a workshop up to 48 hours prior to the workshop date. We will only cancel due to insufficient places sold and you will be refunded the full amount paid.
The Barn North Sydmonton House, North Sydmonton, Newbury, Hampshire RG20 4UL
Artisan Cheese and Butter Making
Join Louise Talbot, founder of Cutting the Curd to immerse yourself in all things cheese and dairy at the Honesty Cookery School!
You will receive a folder of theory and recipes and will learn how to turn either raw or supermarket milk/cream into halloumi, mascarpone, mozzarella and butter! This course is suitable for vegetarians as we will be using vegetarian rennet.
For those who have attended our Christmas cheese course this will provide some different skills and end products.
You will take home the cheese you’ve made – just make sure you have pizza bases and passata at the ready!
A light lunch will be provided combining some of the cheeses and mascarpone with Honesty bakery products.
All abilities welcome.
“My friend and I recently did the cheese-making day with Honesty, and we had a brilliant time. Beautiful venue, lovely people, delicious lunch. We learned a lot and took lots of lovely cheese home with us! If you want to give foodie friends or family an experience to remember, this is the one.” Elizabeth W, Woking
Join Chrissie Neale for a drop-in sing-along session specifically for the over 55s. Everyone is welcome and no experience is necessary.
This class is part of our Ageing Creatively programme, which delivers a huge array of creative workshops, classes and courses specifically tailored to the over 55s. We are grateful to National Lottery Community Fund for their support.
This class is part of our Ageing Creatively programme, which delivers a huge array of creative workshops, classes and courses specifically tailored to the over 55s. We are grateful to National Lottery Community Fund for their support.
The Corn Exchange | West Berkshire Villagers Events
Strictly Come Dancing favourite, Giovanni Pernice, comes to the Corn Exchange Newbury with his highly anticipated hit show THIS IS ME! The showman is once again set to light up the stage, along with his cast of professional dancers, for another fabulous year of touring. With the Italian’s natural charm, combined with beautiful choreography perfectly complemented by a fabulous soundtrack, This is Me pays homage to the music and dances that have inspired Giovanni’s career, from a competition dancer to one of the biggest names on the hit BBC show.
Expect all of your favourite Ballroom and Latin dances and more…
Book with confidence: We want you to feel confident about booking in advance for the events at the Corn Exchange. It is very important that people displaying symptoms of COVID-19 do not come to the theatre so, if you are unwell with coronavirus symptoms or having to self-isolate, please phone the Box Office and we will arrange for the value of your tickets to be credited to your account or refunded, as long as you tell us in advance of the performance time.
Booking tickets: Tickets must be booked in advance and we are asking customers to select an e-ticket if possible.This means that your ticket can be scanned on arrival, reducing the need for contact with our staff when they check tickets. If you are unable to book an e-ticket, please speak to our Box Office team.
Bookings must be for no more than 6 individuals (or two households). Online bookings are limited to a maximum of 6 tickets. If you are making a booking for two households and require more than 6 tickets please contact the Box Office and they will assist with your booking.
In accordance with Government regulations, sectors including leisure, entertainment and hospitality are legally obliged to have a system in place to request and record contact details of their customers, visitors and staff. Anyone in your party aged 16 or over will be asked to scan the Test and Trace QR code or to record their contact details with us.
Social distancing: We have limited the number of people admitted to each event. Last autumn we rebuilt our auditorium seating in order to maximise capacity whilst adhering to social distancing measures. This seating layout has more space between rows, the seats have individual arm rests, and each booking is separated using dividing Perspex screens. We have put our summer season on sale using this layout in order to ensure the events can take place under all circumstances. Should the government regulations change and social distancing is no longer a requirement we will contact all customers to discuss their booking with them and to inform them of any updated procedures.
Masks: Please remember to bring your face covering with you as visitors over the age of 11 are required to wear them in the building, unless you are exempt from wearing one, or if you are eating or drinking.
Social distancing: Please ensure you leave a safe distance between yourself and other customers, staff members or volunteers when joining queues or moving around the building.
Hand sanitiser: Please use hand sanitiser on arrival and then regularly re-apply or wash your hands during your visit.
Masks: Visitors must wear a face mask while inside the building, including while watching a film.
Tickets: Tickets must be booked in advance and we ask customers to select an e-ticket if possible. This ticket will be scanned at a contactless scanning point on entry. You do not need to show a ticket for activities in the Learning Centre or The Base as they will have a list of those who have booked.
Making payments: We will be asking customers to make contactless card payments where possible. Card machines will be wiped down after use if they have been used for chip and PIN.
Cleaning: We have increased and enhanced cleaning regimes in place. Common touch points will be cleaned regularly throughout the day.
Using the lift: If you need to use the lift, please only travel in it with members of your own household or social bubble.
Using the toilet facilities: Please wash your hands before and after you use the facilities. Please keep your distance and allow others sufficient space to pass, especially when entering or leaving.
Leaving the building: Please follow instructions from our team who will guide you on which exit to use.
If you feel unwell: If you feel unwell whilst visiting, please leave the building and return to your home. If you are experiencing Covid-19 symptoms, please contact 119 to arrange a test.
The Old School School Road Ardington Oxfordshire OX12 8PN UK
ONSITE Linoprinting: Further Techniques: Colour & Layer
Tutor Karen Carter 10am – 4pm (Lunch 12.30 – 1.00pm)
Cost..£95.00
This one-day, onsite workshop is designs for those with a little experience of linocutting and those at a more advanced level
Workshop Details Learn how to go beyond the basics of this simple printing process and produce a series of coloured prints in this structured but relaxed workshop. Linoprinting is a great technique to do at home…..easy to learn, minimum equipment and a whole host of variations once you’ve got the basics. Forget the blunt tools and tough lino of school days and enjoy the process with soft-cut lino and a whole range of approaches. This workshop expands on the basic techniques of linoprinting to explore colour, collage and layering – perfect for printing cards, wall art, fabric etc.
There will be lots of step-by-step demos and individual help in this fun & lively workshop. There will be basic instruction, and time to cut a new plate if you wish but the emphasis is on experimenting with colour and layering.
Skills / Techniques Covered Exploring colour using blends & rainbow rolls, spot colour, masks, and a nifty cutting & sticking technique, as well as ways of making a basic registration device.
We will also look at freeform layering, & creating interesting backgrounds using the back of the plate for simple monoprinting.
Materials Materials are not included in your booking fee. The tutor will supply printing inks, soft-cut lino (1 x A5 pieces per person), basic white paper, sundries & equipment to borrow, for a materials fee of £6.00
Lino and inks are also available to buy at Ardington during the workshop.
Tutors may not have the facilities to take card payments in the workshops. Please remember to bring cash or your cheque book if your course involves buying materials from the tutor.
Students Please Bring
Photos / source material to use as starting points no larger than A5 size (the tutor will also have some images you can work from)
Existing linocut plates if you have them (not essential)
Drawing pencil, rubber, ruler, scissors, craft knife if you have one, glue stick, dessert spoon
Lino-cutting tools if you have them
Roller / brayer if you have one (the tutor will have tools and rollers available to borrow)
Apron, kitchen roll, baby wipes, gloves if you don’t like getting inky!
Small brushes if you have any, washing-up sponge, cotton buds, J-cloth, masking tape (tutor will also bring a small amount of these materials)
Selection of smooth lightweight papers e.g cartridge paper / Hosho to work on (inc. coloured, handmade & tissue papers) approx A4 size.
Tracing paper or greaseproof paper
Bring any papers or fabric you would like to try out – nothing is ‘wrong’, they just give different effects when printed.
We advise that you do not buy any materials required for a course more than two weeks in advance, because occasionally a course is cancelled due to low enrolment.
Pondero Talk – Hypnotherapy: How it can help during the menopause menopause,
Pondero Talk – Hypnotherapy: How it can help during the menopause menopause,
The Monthly Memory Café’s are for people living with dementia and their carers.
Join the friendly and relaxed sessions which feature homemade cake, tea, coffee and a series of activities led by professional artists. These activities are designed to encourage conversation, help stimulate the brain and enrich the lives of people living with dementia.
All tickets must be booked in advance. There is no need to print or collect a ticket as the team will have a record of those who have booked. Booking for workshops and courses close 24 hours before the start time. Please note they reserve the right to cancel any course or workshop if the minimum numbers are not met. If they are not able to run a workshop you will be informed three working days ahead of the course or workshop start date.
Wed 25th May 2pm – 3:15pm (UK time) Cost £15.00 ArtTalk Details Following on from others in ‘The Art of the City’ series, this fascinating talk will look at the art of Madrid.
Madrid is one of the supreme art destinations in Europe. Martin examines some of the great artists and history of the city. The Royal collections and the world class paintings in the Prado. The talk also looks at lesser known artistic gems that can be found in Madrid. The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum has many significant paintings to enjoy. Picasso’s best known painting Guernica at the Renia Sophia Museum is also a highlight. The talk looks at some of the best art from The Spanish golden age through to the paintings of Goya. This hour long talk will whet your appetite for the art of Spain and its superb collections.
Using original photographs of many of the superb artworks taken at art galleries, museums, studios and churches, Martin will point up some of the most significant artists and characters that have shaped these places over centuries. Whilst well known art will be included, it is hoped that some of the lesser known delights will also be illuminated for you.
Where possible Martin will use the artists own perceptions and visions of these places and the locations that inspired their art. As always Martin sets the art in its historical context and links it with the events that shaped the modern world. He will also provide a list of helpful books and links to further explore on a PDF following each talk.
The talk will last for 60 minutes, followed by an open Q&A session.
A documentary on the life of Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-lived, longest reigning British monarch and longest serving female head of state in history.
Climate Change – Fact or Fantasy?
Climate Change – Fact or Fantasy?
19:00 -21:00
25/05/2022
Climate Change – Fact or Fantasy?
by Tim Palmer
Wednesday 25th May 7pm Peasemore Village Hall
Is climate change an overblown threat promoted by environmental tree huggers or an existential crisis that will lead the to extinction of the human species? And what can we in Peasemore do about it anyway?
Tim is a professor of climate physics at Oxford University. In this FREE talk he will try to answer the first question from a scientific perspective, and give his personal opinions on the second.
Larger than life actor, writer and presenter Brian Blessed is known for his hearty, king-sized portrayals on film and television.
A giant of a man accompanied by an eloquent wit and booming, operatic voice, he is also an avid explorer and climber and An Evening with Brian Blessed will combine anecdotes from his illustrious acting career with tales of his adventuring.
With a career spanning more than 50 years, there is no shortage of material. On screen, he has appeared in everything from Doctor Who to Kenneth Branagh’s Shakespeare films. On stage his credits range from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats to Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. And his trademark booming voice has also featured on everything from Peppa Pig character Grampy Rabbit to a voice download on TomTom’s sat nav system.
He is also an avid climber and will also be talking about his Everest climb without oxygen; his expedition to the jungles of Venezuela during which he survived a plane crash; his trek to the North Pole (he is the oldest man to go to the Pole on foot) and his many hours of space training in Russia!
The show is an experience that nobody should miss! His eloquence and humour will have the audience captured from the moment he walks on stage until the moment he leaves.
His show may not be suitable for people of a nervous disposition or those who aren’t expecting the odd expletive!
Priority booking opens to Members on Friday 14 January. Tickets are available for general sale on Friday 21 January at 10am
Poppies are so colourful and joyful and are perfect to paint in watercolour, we will be looking at the vibrancy needed to paint these flowers and how to make them pop out from your painting, we will be using a strong Saunders Waterford paper to absorb all the water and pigment used in this class. The cost includes all materials, a 2 course lunch with a glass of wine and refreshments throughout the day. The image for the class will be unveiled on the day.
Tutor: Maggie Cross Thurs 19th May 10am – 11:30am workshop demo Thurs 26th May 10am – 11am follow up and Q&A session (UK timings)
Cost–£50.00
Thurs 19th May 10am – 11:30am workshop demo Thurs 26th May 10am – 11am follow up and Q&A session (UK timings)
This LivePlus™ online workshop is ideal for those who have attended an introductory session with Maggie, but will also be suitable for beginners who are familiar with the materials.
Workshop details Summer is a joyful time of year and what better way to celebrate by painting the flowers.
The peony is especially highly prized, not only in Chinese painting, but in embroidery carving and is widely cultivated. In fact the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD) empress Wu Zetian was so keen on them that a “peonimania” developed in China rather like the Dutch tulipmania! The peony is regarded as the queen of flowers and symbolises wealth and beauty. It is the Moutan or tree peonies that we are referring to.
The poppy and iris do not have specific symbolism attached to them but are admired and painted. The iris is often referred to as the butterfly flower. One of the key features of painting these flowers is the technique of loading the brush with several different colours or tones of the same colour which Maggie will demonstrate.
She will begin by making a few quick sketches of the flowers and leaves showing them in different angles and perspectives. It is important to familiarise yourself with the plant’s structure before painting as the final composition is painted onto blank paper without any mark making. This the Chinese believe gives your composition more “chi” or liveliness.
This will be followed by a demonstration of each part of the plant- flowers, buds, stamens leaves and stems. Maggie will use colour and demonstrate the loading techniques. To complete the lesson Maggie will paint a composition of each flower adding an insect to give additional interest.
Specific skills you will learn at the workshop
Learn the symbolism and history of the plants
Detailed observation of the structure of the chosen plants
Brush loading using several colours and tones
Learn the rules of composition in a traditional Chinese painting
Equipment & materials list Materials are not included in the course fee. All the materials and equipment you will need are listed below.
Chinese brushes -you will need a large one and a finer for the detail
An absorbent paper such as Xuan – semi-sized papers are not suitable for this technique
Ink
Chinese colours or gouache (watercolours may be used) in rose, carmine or peony red, scarlet, rouge, indigo, phthalocyanine blue, gamboge, burnt sienna and mauve
2 water pots
Paint rag or kitchen roll
Palette
Cloth to cover your work surface as the paint will soak through the absorbent paper (NB a towel is too rough)
You needn’t have the materials ready whilst watching the live demonstration – the demo session is a time to watch, ask and learn. After the demo you will be sent a link to the recording, which you can watch as many times as you wish for thirty days.
This LivePlus™ online workshop is ideal for those who have attended an introductory session with Maggie, but will also be suitable for beginners who are familiar with the materials.
Workshop details Summer is a joyful time of year and what better way to celebrate by painting the flowers.
The peony is especially highly prized, not only in Chinese painting, but in embroidery carving and is widely cultivated. In fact the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD) empress Wu Zetian was so keen on them that a “peonimania” developed in China rather like the Dutch tulipmania! The peony is regarded as the queen of flowers and symbolises wealth and beauty. It is the Moutan or tree peonies that we are referring to.
The poppy and iris do not have specific symbolism attached to them but are admired and painted. The iris is often referred to as the butterfly flower. One of the key features of painting these flowers is the technique of loading the brush with several different colours or tones of the same colour which Maggie will demonstrate.
She will begin by making a few quick sketches of the flowers and leaves showing them in different angles and perspectives. It is important to familiarise yourself with the plant’s structure before painting as the final composition is painted onto blank paper without any mark making. This the Chinese believe gives your composition more “chi” or liveliness.
This will be followed by a demonstration of each part of the plant- flowers, buds, stamens leaves and stems. Maggie will use colour and demonstrate the loading techniques. To complete the lesson Maggie will paint a composition of each flower adding an insect to give additional interest.
Specific skills you will learn at the workshop
Learn the symbolism and history of the plants
Detailed observation of the structure of the chosen plants
Brush loading using several colours and tones
Learn the rules of composition in a traditional Chinese painting
Equipment & materials list Materials are not included in the course fee. All the materials and equipment you will need are listed below.
Chinese brushes -you will need a large one and a finer for the detail
An absorbent paper such as Xuan – semi-sized papers are not suitable for this technique
Ink
Chinese colours or gouache (watercolours may be used) in rose, carmine or peony red, scarlet, rouge, indigo, phthalocyanine blue, gamboge, burnt sienna and mauve
2 water pots
Paint rag or kitchen roll
Palette
Cloth to cover your work surface as the paint will soak through the absorbent paper (NB a towel is too rough)
You needn’t have the materials ready whilst watching the live demonstration – the demo session is a time to watch, ask and learn. After the demo you will be sent a link to the recording, which you can watch as many times as you wish for thirty days.
Micklems Farm, Knowl Hill Common, Knowl Hill, Berkshire RG10 9YD
Batik On Paper
Learn the basic techniques of paper batik using hot wax and dyes.
In this one-day workshop you can expect to produce several colourful batik papers, in which you will demonstrate a variety of techniques. You may also produce a collage of some of these papers.
Working on a selection of black and white newspaper, coloured newspaper, black tissue paper and coloured tissue paper, you will learn how to use the canting (tool for applying the wax) as well as other methods of applying the wax. The whole paper is then covered with a layer of dye. When dry, more wax is applied to “save” areas of the dye and a second dye is applied. The process is repeated until only small areas remain unwaxed and the final dark dye is applied. You will repeat this process on a number of different papers and may then put some of these together to make a collage.
The Barn North Sydmonton House, North Sydmonton, Newbury, Hampshire RG20 4UL
Freekeh – Cooking With Ancient Grains
Freekeh, wild wheat and ancient grains, the staples of our ancestors are growing in popularity as they re-emerge into our modern diet, as healthy carbohydrates. Rich in vitamins and minerals and with lower gluten structures, these wheats and grains are easier to digest and make for incredibly tasty alternatives to rice, potatoes and pasta.
Join culinary author and cook Ruth Nieman, whose recent publication Freekeh, Wild Wheat & Ancient Grains, recipes for healthy eating explores the historical, biblical and cultural background of the staple foods of the hunter gathering communities from the Fertile Crescent, with modern uses in a healthy diet. She will teach you the traditional way to cook freekeh, the Arabic staple that is harvested unripe and smoked in the fields, as well as showing you its versatility in salads, soups and bread.
We will also be making delicious seasonal fayre using spelt, rye and other ancient grains, which you will enjoy after the workshop for a vegetarian lunch with a complimentary glass of wine.
More than Biscuits, Beer and Bulbs – Reading’s Other Industries
2 – 3.15pm with Jo Alexander Jones The cost is £ 12-50p
While Reading is rightly renowned for its baking, brewing and seed businesses, the town had many lesser-known industries that brought with them prosperity and just as importantly jobs for the wider population. In a time when most companies were privately owned, we will explore a number of these companies and the people who owned them covering industries such as printing, ironworking and brickmaking; names like Cox and Wyman, Katesgrove Foundry and Poulton’s Waterloo Kiln Brickworks.
Herongate Leisure Centre, Charnham Park, Hungerford, West Berkshire RG17 0YU
Honesty Live
Honesty at Herongate will open its doors and invite you to a world of live entertainment with Honesty Live! Sit back and relax on a Thursday evening with friends and family whilst enjoying a range of live entertainment from music to comedy! Drinks and food will also be available throughout the night too.
Doors open at 7pm with entertainment starting from 8pm and the night coming to a close at 10:30pm.
26th May: Café Zazous Swing gypsy jazz quartet in the hot club style of the Paris Café musette. The perfect piano lounge music!
The Old Boot Inn Stanford Dingley Berkshire RG7 6LT
Seafood Weekend
The Old Boot Inn in Stanford Dingley, seafood weekend is not far off. Join us on Friday the 27th or Saturday the 28th of May for the best is local produce. They have lovely wine offers for the evening as well. Order a seafood platter and receive a complimentary bottle of House white wine
A brand new stage adaptation based on ‘the gloriously daft’ BBC Radio 4 series by Mark Evans.
Bleak Expectations is the story that Charles Dickens might have written after drinking too much gin. Two-time winner of the Best Radio Sitcom award and winner of a Sony Award, Bleak Expectations has captivated audiences and critics alike since its 2007 debut.
Hold on tight for a chaotic caper through Dickensian London with young Pip Bin: tragic half orphan, hopeless romantic and would-be-hero.
Follow Pip’s remarkable adventures with sisters Pippa and Poppy and best friend Harry Biscuit as they attempt to escape the scheming clutches of Mr Gently Benevolent, defeat the irrepressible Hardthrasher siblings and avert disaster at every turn. Will evil be vanquished by virtue? Can love triumph over hate? Immerse yourself in this joyful comedy mash-up featuring hideous boarding schools, dastardly plans, devilish disguises, pulse-quickening romances, heart-rendering death scenes, and definitely a happy ending.
A brand new stage adaptation based on ‘the gloriously daft’ BBC Radio 4 series by Mark Evans.
Bleak Expectations is the story that Charles Dickens might have written after drinking too much gin. Two-time winner of the Best Radio Sitcom award and winner of a Sony Award, Bleak Expectations has captivated audiences and critics alike since its 2007 debut.
Hold on tight for a chaotic caper through Dickensian London with young Pip Bin: tragic half orphan, hopeless romantic and would-be-hero.
Follow Pip’s remarkable adventures with sisters Pippa and Poppy and best friend Harry Biscuit as they attempt to escape the scheming clutches of Mr Gently Benevolent, defeat the irrepressible Hardthrasher siblings and avert disaster at every turn. Will evil be vanquished by virtue? Can love triumph over hate? Immerse yourself in this joyful comedy mash-up featuring hideous boarding schools, dastardly plans, devilish disguises, pulse-quickening romances, heart-rendering death scenes, and definitely a happy ending.
Tickets from £15
First Week Special: £5 off tickets from 27 to 30 May
Get ready as we bring you the biggest 80s party show to tour the UK, 80s Live!
You’ve made it through the wilderness, somehow, you’ve made it through and now we’re never gonna give you up!
We will be heading down the Atlanta highway, so bring your jukebox money and get ready to Jitterbug.
The show includes hits such as Girls just Wanna have fun, Edge of Heaven, Tainted Love, Love Shack, Living on a Prayer, The Final Countdown, Don’t You Want Me Baby, Relax, Never Gonna Give You Up, It’s Raining Men, Rio and the list goes on.
Celebrate national burger day the right way by indulging in a homemade juicy WBB Burger.
Keep your eyes peeled for our special burgers too..
The Highclere Show
The Highclere Show
All day
28/05/2022-29/05/2022
The Highclere Show
The Highclere Show is the perfect place for families on the lookout for some half-term fun and we can’t wait to share with you our fantastic line-up for 2022! Whether you’re looking for fantastic live arena entertainment, high-octane performances or a bit of live music whilst sampling some fabulous food & drink, there’s so much to do and see at Highclere! Here’s just a taster of what’s on offer…
West Berkshire Villagers | Events | What’s On | Things to Do
Bootleg Blondie is the official Debbie Harry & Blondie tribute band, the only Blondie tribute to play the legendary CBGB’s in New York City before it’s demise in 2006 and to have the honour to be mentioned on Blondie’s 11th album ‘Pollinator’. Lead vocalist Debbie Harris appeared on two shows for BBC1 when she was picked out of 15,000 applicants to represent Debbie Harry on ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’ hosted by Paddy McGuinness. The show drew in nearly 4 million viewers on the pilot episode alone.
Debbie Harris and Bootleg Blondie have played the Isle Of Wight Festival, the 100 Club, the Hammersmith Palais, The Electric Ballroom in London, Eric’s in Liverpool, and have opened up for amongst others The Undertones, Slade, The Beat, Bad Manners, Heaven 17, Toyah, Hazel O’Connor, Tony Hadley, David Essex and Nick Kershaw and can be seen at all the major venues and festivals around the UK and Europe. Debbie Harris and the boys have met the REAL Blondie and are officially endorsed by the band. Debbie Harry got in touch in 2006 when she heard we were playing CBGB’s in New York City to wish us good luck with our show and when Clem Burke, Blondie’s charismatic drummer, found out that we were making a replica of his Premier drum kit, he arranged a meet up to sign the Bootleg’s bass drum skin. ‘During the 2010 Blondie tour of the UK we took Clem out for a trip around London in our tour bus, he signed that too!!!!’
In 2014 Clem invited Debbie and Andy to a recording session at the Foo Fighters’ famous 606 Studio in Los Angeles, where they saw Clem and the awesome Neve mixing desk in action! Debbie and Andy got married in March 2016 and to their great delight received two video clips from both Blondie and Debbie Harry herself congratulating them on their wedding day. What a wedding present!
With the recent government advice, we want to do our utmost to ensure the health and safety of our audiences, staff, performers and wider community. For the foreseeable future, all of our events must adhere to social distancing guidelines. This page will be updated regularly to ensure customers are clear on the current processes helping to keep everyone safe. If you would like to know more about the social distancing guidelines, you can do so via the government website.
Arlington Arts Centre is now open to the general public. If you are planning to visit, please watch the short instructional video on how to keep yourself and others safe.
This mini retreat is for everyone who isn’t able to attend the whole day but still would like to experience yoga practice, mediation and breathing exercise. We will explore Yin & Yang movements and finding the connection within through a Mandala Yoga practice, moving into Yin & Yang, finishing with beautiful meditation to set you for the rest of the day.
10am – Arrival to Westridge Studio
10:15 – 11:30 – Mandala Yoga Practice – is a practice that works towards a firm intention and established on the four elements that bring connection between you and each of the Elements in the Universe – Earth, Water, Fire and Air. Each of these elements have their corresponding Chakra and group of muscles. You are moving 360 degrees around your yoga mat.
11:30 – 12:00 – Cake & Hot Drink and choosing your Oracle Card, doTerra Essential Oil to try
12:00 – 13:00 – Yin & Deep Meditation Practice
A mini retreat for nourishment of your mind, body and soul. If you haven’t done something for yourself for a while perhaps this is a sign.
This mini retreat is open to just 10 yogis/yoginis, as I would like everyone to feel comfortable.
Here is a discount for all West Berkshire Villages readers: RETREATWBV5
Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 2DR
Open Air Sculpture Exhibition
The Orangery Lawn at Shaw House will be transformed into an open air sculpture exhibition where you can discover artworks by acclaimed sculptors in the grounds of this lovely historic setting.
All works on display will be available for purchase.
Open times: Saturday 30 July – Sunday 25 September, 11am – 4pm. The exhibition will be closed on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st August due to a private event.
Monday to Friday: Visitors will have access to the grounds only. Toilets will be available. We ask you to please respect the space around those celebrating their weddings and other ceremonies within the House.
Weekends: The House, grounds, shop and café will be open.
Plus the following in each picnic; -Crudities and Dip (v) -A Homemade Brownie (v) -Any Hot or Cold Soft Drink of your choice
If you have a specific dietary requirement please call Shaw House 01635 279279.
HOW TO BOOK -Select number of vegetarian or meat picnics -Pay online -Go along to the café to collect your picnic between 12pm and 2pm on your selected date, with lead bookers surname and booking reference -On collection, choose your hot or cold drink -Take your picnic outside and enjoy!
West Berks CAMRA-Elusive Brewing Taproom – Mild Month
West Berks CAMRA-Elusive Brewing Taproom – Mild Month
Imagine being born in an oven and the first person you meet wants to dunk you in his tea!
Come and see the adventure of the deliciously smelling Gingerbread Man who finds his feet fast and sets off on the journey of a lifetime! Up and down and into town, our Gingerbread Man must use his wits to escape anyone who finds him tasty. Is he faster than a Goose? Can he cross a river using a Fox as a raft? Are Gingerbread Men allowed on trains?
Bring the whole family, join in his epic quest and meet the bravest biscuit of all time!
Created with public funding from Arts Council England, support from The Berry Theatre, Hedge End & The Point Eastleigh, with additional support from Salisbury Playhouse and The Lyric Theatre Bridport.
Caversham Lakes, Henley Road, Caversham, Reading, RG4 9RA, United Kingdom
Ed Sheeran Experience
The World’s Number One Ed Sheeran Tribute is coming to Caversham Lakes on the 28th May 2022.
Guaranteed to get you singing along and bringing out those festival moves!
Jack Shepherd has been performing as Ed Sheeran since 2014, in doing so becoming the most established Ed Sheeran tribute act on the globe!
Jack recreates every song completely live using a replica loop pedal to that of the man himself. With a show featuring all the hits and ballads you are sure to have a full Ed Sheeran Experience.
With support from Amanda’s Music Events & James Lainey this will be a show not to be missed!
Adult Ticket £15 Child Ticket (Under 16’s) £10
Doors open from 4:30pm 1st Support Act (5:00pm – 6:00pm) 2nd Support Act (6:00pm – 7:00pm) Ed Sheeran Act (7:00pm – 9:00pm)
Starting in the early 1990’s being involved in dark age re-enactment meant mead was the drink to have round the campfire.
Before the internet finding a bottle or two of mead to pick up on the way involved detouring to a pre arranged off-licence who had some in stock.
HOW WE STARTED
As it happened I knew a few bee keepers so making my own seemed the best option. Later having moved over to Medieval re-enactment mead was still the drink to have so I began to take a boot full, and when that wasn’t enough we moved on to having a stall
As is often the case with home brewers, the under stairs cupboard is rapidly outgrown, and there is nothing like enthusiasm, so having progressed through a variety of spaces, now we have a commercial unit in order to keep up with demand and expand our range, and are now licensed to include retail and wholesale through the AWRS scheme
ROAD MAP
We are always on the look out for new outlets!
We are now stocked in many off licences and farm shops, pubs, restaurants and boutique bars.
We also supply mead to hand fastings and weddings, where mead makes an excellent toasting drink.
If you would like your local to stock our excellent mead, get them to contact us and we will do the rest!
Newbury’s much-loved monthly Artisan Market takes place on the last Sunday of each month (except December).
Visitors from near and far can experience the sizzling smells of the Artisan Market between 10am and 4pm in Newbury’s Northbrook Street and Bartholomew Street. The market will deliver fresh and exciting artisanal offerings and seasonally produced local dishes, to complement the well-established variety of businesses already lining Newbury’s historic streets.
A new covid-friendly layout is in place for the market to help maximise social distancing and ensure that adequate sanitisation measures are in place.
Capture nature’s beauty in pure silver with this botanical jewellery making workshop. Ideal for beginners who would like to try their hand at a new creative skill. You will learn to all about silver clay, applying techniques to use both paste and lump metal clay to cast real pieces of nature such as leaves, and seeds in to pure silver jewellery.
Description
Discover the alchemy of silver clay with this full day beginners’ workshop. You will learn to all about silver clay and make between three and five small items of beautiful nature themed jewellery from silver clay, and real pieces of nature, cast in pure silver. No experience in working with metal clay is necessary for this workshop.
Level: Complete beginner
Class Outline
This fantastic workshop is to be taught in the stunning purpose build creative studios on the second floor of the Westridge Studios, in the leafy village of Highclere. (Please note the studio is access by stairs only, if you are unable to access the studio due to it being located on the second floor please do get in touch before booking and I will do my utmost to move the workshop to the downstairs space at the Studios, subject to availability.)
In this workshop, you will learn the skills required to make beautiful jewellery from metal clay, and how to continue making at home if you wish. During the workshop you will learn all about Silver Clay, and what makes it such an awesome material to work with.
After a brief introduction to Silver clay and what to expect on the workshop, We will take a walk around the grounds of the beautiful Westridge studios to forage for leaves, seeds and twigs for our projects.
You will then be taken step by step through the different techniques you can use to capture natures beauty including;
Using silicone Moulding compound to make your own Moulds.
Using silver paste to paint on to leaves and delicate flowers. And using lump clay with the natural objects to press the objects in to the clay to make an impression and capture all of those beautiful fine details that can be seen on leaves and bark.
The workshop includes 7g of silver clay and silver paste, which is enough to make three or four pieces of silver jewellery, depending on the sizes of the pieces you wish to make.
Basic jump rings, ear wire hooks and a standard 18’chain are also included in the price, you may also bring your own and we can help you attach them.
Alternatively, if a different chain is needed that can also be ordered through the academy at an extra cost, please email your request in advance of the workshop and it can be brought along on the day for you.
(Please note due to time scales and techniques you will not be able to make stud earrings on this workshop, as it is an advanced skill and requires soldiering techniques, these will be taught in other workshops, feel free to email for details once you have attended a beginner class.)
What you will learn.
On this fantastic introductory course, you will learn how to make a simple charm or pendant. Then you will use your new found skills to create two or three extra pieces in your own design, maybe a pair of earrings to match your pendant?
You will learn methods to dry your pieces and how to safely fire your creations with a Butane torch and a kiln.
Once fired you will be shown how to get your silver pieces beautiful and shiny.
When your pieces are made you will also be given a little jewellery box take away your beautiful new jewellery in.
On this workshop you will be guided, step by step and learn the following skills:
Handling and how to store the clay.
Rolling the clay out to get an even finish.
How to add textures to your pieces.
How to make and use silicone molding compound with natural objects.
Using silver paste to coat and cast real leaves in silver.
How to shape and cut the clay.
How to dry and refine your pieces
Kiln and torch firing methods, how to use a small Butane torch to fire safely.
How to Polish and finish your pieces
If you really enjoyed the workshop and would like to continue your silver clay jewellery, why not try one of our other full day silver clay workshops. Or practice your new skills in the comfort of your home with a specially created Silver Clay kits, available to buy on the day of the workshop.
Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 2DR
Antiques and Brocante Market
A welcome return for the unique French style Brocante market, offering antiques, vintage, retro, bric-a-brac and decorative arts items plus vinyl records on the Great Lawn at Shaw House.
A great day out for all the family with free entry to explore the House. Street food will be available outside plus light refreshments from the café and pre-prepared picnics are available to order from the Shaw House café (see separate website listing).
Sunday 29 May & 14 August | 10am – 4pm
No need to book | Free | Outdoor event
ACVR Events run regular, a niche events in market towns in Hampshire, West Sussex and Surrey. For stall holder enquiries please visit their website here.
The Vineyard is proud to be celebrating the relationship between food and wine in a superb afternoon of tasting on the Terrace. Comprising of six brilliantly inspired and designed dishes by our executive chef Tom Scade, paired with six wines that demonstrate excellent Californian winemaking.
It’s up to you to make your own judgements. Which wines go with what foods? It’s up to you to tell us!
Plus the following in each picnic; -Crudities and Dip (v) -A Homemade Brownie (v) -Any Hot or Cold Soft Drink of your choice
If you have a specific dietary requirement please call Shaw House 01635 279279.
HOW TO BOOK -Select number of vegetarian or meat picnics -Pay online -Go along to the café to collect your picnic between 12pm and 2pm on your selected date, with lead bookers surname and booking reference -On collection, choose your hot or cold drink -Take your picnic outside and enjoy!
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Spring Botanical Jewellery Making Workshop Course details Capture nature’s beauty in pure silver with this botanical jewellery making workshop. Ideal for beginners …
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This mini retreat is for everyone who isn’t able to attend the whole day but still would like to experience yoga practice, mediation and breathing exercise. We will explore Yin & Yang movements and finding the connection within through a Mandala Yoga practice, moving into Yin & Yang, finishing with beautiful meditation to set you for the rest of the day.
