This Weekend's Events (30th November to 2nd December)
By Lawrence on Thu 29 Nov
Hi Everyone
The days get ever shorter, they get ever colder. Noddy Holder and Roy Wood will emerge from hibernation to earn their corn as it were. People start looking at their wish lists and start crossing off all the gifts they probably won't be getting, which must be particularly galling if you've chosen socks, Hai-Karate or a book token as your must-have present
But it's not all bad news, equally bad weather and some bloke telling us that he's "driving home for Christmas" on every radio station in the land (apart from 6Music where Lauren Laverne will be playing a cement mixer accompanied by some random beats and some bloke with a silly beard and an achingly trendy haircut, (the sort of person who thinks that the obscure Swedish Indie band Lauren played earlier are a bit too mainstream)) It also happens to be time to let you know what's happening at the Rising Sun this weekend!!
On Friday, it's time for another thrilling instalment of CLUB VELOCITY
Another fine selection of live music for the enjoyment of all courtesy of Velocity HQ and it looks just so.
TOMORROW BIRD
This musical pairing of Jen Bird and Simon Driscoll gives rise to a stunning live act that leaves audiences transfixed.
Each of their heartfelt songs are a passionate ode to the human experience... They sing of hope, love, loss, courage and empowerment - creating stories and melodies rendered all the more poignant for the duo’s rich vocals and seamless harmonies.
Following the release of their debut single, Tomorrow Bird were named Best Duo at the 2017 GSMC Awards. The pair have also co-written and produced two full length musicals together; The Island of Lost Children and The Best Murder Mystery Party Ever...
Jen Bird
A former theatre actress, Jen performed lead roles in 'Jesus Christ Superstar' and 'The King & I' before being bitten by the song-writing bug. As a solo artist, she has released two albums and multiple singles - including 'Shout at the Dark' - a powerful anthem to raise funds for the mental health charity, SANE UK. Jen also performed two songs for Nintendo's critically acclaimed Xenoblade Chronicles 2.
Simon Driscoll
Simon began his musical journey as a classical pianist before becoming the front man of folk-rock band, Burnt Tomorrow. Following the release of the band's first two albums, he returned to his classical roots with the stunning piano album, Hope Shines Through. Simon also hosts a musical instrument and equipment review channel on YouTube - the (modestly titled!) Average Reviews from an Average Guy.
BRIGHT SHADOWS
A vocal harmony-driven acoustic pop rock duo based in Reading, UK.
With strong vocals and a lively delivery, the duo fuse a gritty brand of acoustic pop/rock with touches of folk and country. They followed the release of their Diffusion EP in August 2015 with their first full studio album in June 2018, Cross the Light..
THE SEASONS IN SHORTHAND
An alt-folk three piece combining heartfelt introspective songs and dual male and female vocals with driving basslines.
Starting life as the acoustic project of songwriter Lee Switzer, the band have come together and developed a unique sound that brings his lyrics to life between moments of intimate acoustic folk and full on panic.
A member of the All Will Be Well Records family, The Seasons in Shorthand have found themselves feeling equally at home on stages such as the O2 Academies in Islington and Oxford, as they do in small art spaces and backrooms
We'll be open at 8pm. And it'll cost you £8 on the door to get in or £5 in advance from www.wegottickets.com
On Saturday, we're pleased to present DREAM: SONG & DANCE
An afternoon and evening of song and dance.
Featuring: Aquai Levi, Nicole Monique Johnson, Silque & Ezra, Dima Wazani (Dabkah Dance), Natasha Bradley (Persian Dance), Yaniris Gonzalez (Cuban Folkloric Dance)
Afternoon Workshops from 2pm -
Dabkah Dance led by Dima Wazani
Persian Dance led by Natasha Bradley
Singing Workshop led by Nicole Monique Johnson
Colombian food served from 5.30pm
Evening performance starts at 7pm
And, not forgetting, it's absolutely FREE!
Finally on Sunday, we have our CHRISTMAS ART MARKET
An excellent opportunity to buy unique, handmade and original works of art and craft direct from local artists. Browse stalls, relax in our lovely Yellow Teapot Cafe and bar with homemade snacks and mulled wine. Join in with some family art activities too.
Put the fun back into Christmas shopping, and support your local art centre and artists!
Browse stalls on two floors selling paintings, jewellery, printmaking, photography, ceramics, textiles and more. Relax and treat yourself to homemade cakes, snacks and mulled wine in our cosy cafe bar. Also, we'll have live music and family art activities to give you that festive feeling
We're open from 11am to 5pm and again, admission is totally FREE!!
That’s everything for another week, just to remind you that we are, as always, at 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST (If you pop it into your satnav or Google, we shall magically appear!)
