Archived Events: Friday 25th May 2007 Natural Theatre Company and Nick Steel The White Wine Arts Trail The fringiest way to start the Fringe! Venue: Galerie Le Bonbon (Mystery venue, see tickets for details)
Doors: 6.30 pm Time: 6.30 pm Price: £12 including fine wines
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or online
Darlings, this is always the most outrageous event on the Fringe as Ralph Le Bonbon and his team of pretentious critics guide you round the Fringe Art gallery openings. Lashings of culture, lashings of fine wine and a glittering awards ceremony at the end...if you can survive to the end, darlings.
Sponsored by Great Western Wine and Xerophon Promoted by Natural Theatre Company and Nick Steel
NEW: Orange Squash Arts Trail for 3 - 10 year olds - see Bath Fringe Visual arts listings for details.
Exciting news on a phenomenal collection of Dutch comedians visiting Bath for an Edinburgh preview show during Bath Fringe:
Thursday 31st May 2007 Nick Steel presents the best of Dutch Stand-up... Amsterdam Underground Comedy Collective Edgy comedy with a slight accent Venue: Lakeside Suite, Widcombe Social Club
Doors: 8pm Time: 8.30pm Price: £8 / £7 concs
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or online
A night of the very best of Dutch stand-up comedy from the people who brought you tulips, euthanasia, wooden shoes, legal prostitution, Dennis Bergkamp, XTC, Raymond van Barneveld, Vincent van Gogh, Big Brother, gay marriage and easy abortion...
Featuring six of the most sought after, award-winning comedians on the circuit in a one-off pre-Edinburgh Fringe preview, including the stars of the Amsterdam Comedytrain club and the Netherlands Have I Got News For You.
Sponsored by Xerophon Promoted by Nick Steel Links: www.xerophon.com Full wheelchair access
Thursday 7th June 2007 Natural Theatre and Nick Steel Bonbon's Big Nite Widcombe's famous cabaret moves upstairs! Venue: Widcombe Social Club Big Room, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.30 pm Time: 8pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or online
The popular Bonbon Cabaret moves upstairs to the big room at Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath.
Outrageous Ralph le Bonbon presents a sizzling array of stand-up comedy, terrific turns and marvelous music in a bumper version of the ever popular Bonbon Cabaret Nights.
Fantastic line-up including Seymour Mace from the Johnny Vegas TV series 'Ideal'; if.comeddies award nominee Greg Davies from 'We Are Klang'; Hootenanny3; Bill Smarme and his mate Dave are the Red Hot Lovers; James Lambeth's 45th Street Swing; Pip Uttonis Roy Orbison; The Widcombe Players.
Bonbon Cabaret is always a sell-out so book early. Some tickets may be available on the door.
Adults only. Optional dress code: Gorgeous!
Many people make a night of it in Widcombe by taking early supper at The White Hart, opposite the Social Club.
M. Le Bonbon will personally come and tell you when the doors are open!
Sponsored by Xerophon Promoted by Natural Theatre Company and Nick Steel Links: www.xerophon.com www.naturaltheatre.co.uk We regret there is no wheelchair access to this venue
Friday 14th September 2007 Nick Steel presents The Electric Soup in concert An evening of Prog & Rock & Roll Venue: Widcombe Social Club: Big Room
Doors: 8pm Time: 8 pm Price: £4 on the door
The Electric Soup - Psychedelic Progressive Rock - featuring the fantastic Rebecca Whale on vocals and genuine Hammond, Mellotron & Minimoog...
Support by Dude - authentic Rock & Roll, drawing inspiration from early Beatles to Fat Boy Slim, via Lou Reed...get out your dancing shoes!
Intervals by DJ Chemical Steve
Sponsored by Xerophon Promoted by Nick Steel Wheelchair access with assistance
Thursday 27th September 2007 Natural Theatre Company and Nick Steel Bonbon goes Yankee Doodle American themed cabaret Venue: Widcombe Social Club: Lakeside Suite
Doors: 7.45 pm Time: 8 pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or online
Featuring Last Train To Memphis - Cowgirls and Geetars; Hootenanny3 - with Banjo wizard Leon Hunt, Johnny Guitar - he's a miner, 49er and he's old and in the way, The Chalker Twins and The Widcombe Players. Prize for the best Dolly Parton outfit! Dress code: Stateside.
Thursday 25th October 2007 Natural Theatre Company and Nick Steel Beau Bonbon Georgian themed cabaret Venue: Widcombe Social Club: Lakeside Suite
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or online
Featuring John Sampson, star of the legendary Natural Theatre Scarlatti shows, the Bath Minuet Company, the Widcombe Players, the Hot Potato Syncopators, plus the grand raffle and other surprises...
Dress code: Bodice-bursting periwiggery
Thursday 20th December 2007 Natural Theatre and Nick Steel Bonbon's Grotto Christmas cabaret showcase Venue: Widcombe Social Club Big Room, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8pm Price: £12
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Featuring a mixture of top local acts, famous stand-up comedians and Natural Theatre naughtiness.
A Band Named Brian, Jon Richardson, The Mandibles, The Widcombe Players, Bad Machine
Thursday 17th January 2008 Nick Steel presents HANS TEEUWEN Hosted by Micha Wertheim Outrageous award-winning Dutch comedy star in special pre-London show. Venue: Lakeside Suite, Widcombe Social Club, Bath
Doors: 8.30pm Price: £8
Booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362
Some tickets may be available on the door.
Featuring the most sought after, award-winning comedian on the Dutch circuit and star of the Amsterdam Comedytrain club in a one-off pre-London preview of his new one hour solo show.
Having refused to perform in his native Holland since the murder of his friend, film maker Theo Van Gogh, outrageous comic and Dutch celebrity Hans Teeuwen has brought his warped and absurdist style of comedy to the UK instead.
The man who is considered 'Holland's greatest comic' (Metro) headlined the sold-out comedy troupe THE AMSTERDAM COMEDY COLLECTIVE at this year's Edinburgh Fringe and thrilled audiences with his surreal, demented, warped Jim-Carrey-on-acid performances.
'One of the most exciting new acts of the year … if Teeuwen is out to restart his career in a new language, then game very much on' The Times
'His act – full-throttle tomfoolery with a demonic glint in the eye – is the funniest
20 minutes in town…. Performed as if our lives depended on it' The Guardian
'Grab a ticket before the tourists do, and find out what the fuss is about' The Scotsman
'Teeuwen is clearly a comedy master, more than worthy of an hour on his own …blisteringly entertaining, a real find of the festival. Let's hope we see more of him on the British scene' Chortle
Sponsored by Xerophon Promoted by Nick Steel Links: www.xerophon.com Full wheelchair access
Thursday 14th February 2008 Nick Steel and Natural Theatre present Bonbon Valentine's Nite! Candlelit evening of music and comedy with a tongue in cheek romantic theme Venue: Widcombe Social Club Big Room, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Featuring Becky Love, James Lambeth's 45th Street Swing, Bill & Dave are the Red Hot Lovers, The Widcombe Players plus the history of romance as seen through the eyes of Dame Barbara Carthorse...
Bring a loved one...or maybe meet one???
Thursday 27th March 2008 Nick Steel and Natural Theatre present Bonbon 's Easter Bonnet Easter themed music and comedy cabaret Venue: Widcombe Social Club Big Room, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Featuring the multitalented Matt Baker, poet and singer extraordinaire Julian Landau and a hat competition to be judged by none other than Lady Margaret herself. The Mighty Peas play popular classics as you've never heard them before, from Dolly Parton to Eminem via the Simpsons. None other than fashion guru and punk goddess Vivienne Westworld will be conducting a hat clinic to ensure that YOU sparkle in the Easter Parade. Grand raffle and special appearance by the Widcombe Players (Director Rev. J. Towler).
Thursday 24th April 2008 Nick Steel and Natural Theatre present Bonbon's Spring Thing zingy, springy musical cabaret Venue: Widcombe Social Club Big Room, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Featuring silky-voiced James Hollingsworth, the ever-popular Hodmaddodery, the Widcombe Players and headline band, Bath favourite The Duckworths. Have-a-go slot featuring exotic daffodil juggler; plus Dan Dan the Tractor Man. Hosted by the inimitable Ralph le Bonbon.
Thursday 29th May 2008 Nick Steel and Natural Theatre present Bonbon's Big Fringe Nite the pick of the fringe! Venue: The Fabulous Spiegeltent, Bath Recreation Ground
Doors: 8pm Time: 8.15pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Music, standup comedy, a grand raffle and of course the ammest of drams, the Widcombe Players!
Starring the fantastic German comedian Henning Wehn: a beginners' guide to German humour... and Brighton's new female singing sensation The Vogueabonds: stylish, sophisticated and smutty close harmony.
Jazz swing by James Lambeth's 45th Street Swing, including special guest John Paul Gard.
Also, headline performance from The Mighty Peas, plus appearances by Ivana Viagra, Erich and Sheila Austen.
Thursday 5th June 2008 Nick Steel presents Deep Dark Cuts starring Alan Francis & Barnaby Power A gloriously offensive sketch show exploring the darker aspects of human nature... Venue: Natural Theatre Company HQ, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8.30pm Price: £7.50
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362
A drug addicted businessman, a cabaret-singing Tourette's sufferer and a pop impresario with a sordid past are just three of society's oddballs who with other wickedly funny character creations combine to form an hour of black comedy and incisive observations.
"Acutely observed character monologues … sardonic wit at its best. GO SEE." The List ****
"Timing that could give Accurist a run for its money. Nasty stuff, it's extremely entertaining" - The Scotsman ****
"Some of the most SINISTER and SURREAL comic creations this side of The League of Gentlemen." - The Sunday Herald *****
"One of the classiest examples of loud-mouthed filth you're ever likely to experience" - Chortle
This event takes place in Natural Theatre's props store, surely the fringiest of Fringe venues!
Sunday 15th June 2008
Organisers: Natural Theatre Company and Nick Steel in association with the Widcombe Association. Widcombe Rising Bath's biggest and best fun day Venue: Claverton Street, Widcombe, Bath and surrounding streets
Time: 1.30pm-7.30pm Price: £2 including free programme
Info: watch this space for updates
Widcombe Rising street party will be back on Sunday 15th June 2008 with the theme Widcombe village.
Supported by local traders, so please support them!
WIDCOMBE RISING UPDATE 30/04/2008
Preparations are well underway for Bath's biggest and best community celebration. The traffic in busy Widcombe will come to a halt and will be replaced with a feast of fun and frolics.
There will be three stages, market stalls, a hog roast, street theatre, a miniature camera obscura, kiddie rides and wandering musicians. And of course all the great pubs and bistros of Widcombe will be in full swing. Dominating the scene will be The Widcombe Eye, a 51ft Ferris wheel.
Featured events include a Secrets of Widcombe competition, the anarchic Lady Margaret's Dog Show and the ever popular Handbags choir from Chester. The Handbags will also be performing at the musical picnic at the Palladian Bridge on the evening of Saturday 14th June, which is both a curtain raiser and fundraiser for the big day.
Amongst the musical attractions at Widcombe Rising are The Cosmic Sausages, The Duckworths, Keith Warmington and Stuart Gordon, The Mighty Peas, Bath Male Voices, Bath Spa Band and Widcombe Junior School Jazz Band. The full lineup will be announced here soon.
Wandering the streets with their own particular brands of comedy will be The Splott Brothers with their mobile palm court, Children's entertainer extraordinaire Jimmy Mac and of course the ladies and gentlemen of the Natural Theatre Company.
In tune with this year's village theme, there will be a nomad encampment on the Widcombe Social Club car park, housing the Bedouin Jerry Can Band. No, this is not something dreamed up by the Naturals but a genuine group of musicians from the Sinai desert who not only play traditional Egyptian flutes and lyres, but are accompanied by a percussion section made up from fuel cans and other military detritus left behind by the Israeli army.
There will be cream teas at St Matthew's Church and the Baptists will once again be transforming their dull car park into a garden worthy of Chelsea Flower Show!
Entrance this year will be by programme available at the gate for a suggested donation of £2 per adult. Kids go free! Things seem to be costing the earth this year so we are still fundraising for this event. There are interesting sponsorship opportunities available! And of course, any donations, however small, are most welcome.
There is a benefit cabaret, Bonbon's Big Fringe Nite, at the Fabulous Spiegeltent on May 29th. Tickets from Bath Festivals Box Office 01225 463362 - see details above
You can contact the organisers using the online contact form or by telephone on 01225 469131
PS The Tables Turned event at The White Hart raised a magnificent £650.
Wednesday 10th September 2008 Nick Steel and Brian Hennigan present: DOUG STANHOPE First date of critically acclaimed US comedian Doug Stanhope's 2008 UK tour - and its in Bath!
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 8.00pm Price: £12.50
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
"He blazed with the honesty, outrage and lucidity that made his name... Much of what's wrong with the world melts away in Stanhope's flame... comedy with brains and guts and a heart"
The Guardian *****
"What makes Stanhope essential viewing is that none of this is an act"
Sunday Times
"There's a kind of Olympic torch of extreme American comedy, which passed from Lenny Bruce, through Richard Pryor and Sam Kinison... to the late Bill Hicks. Stanhope is the latest, and equally brilliant, bearer"
Independent on Sunday
Adults Only. Not for the faint hearted!
Licenced bar
Thursday 25th September 2008 Nick Steel and Natural Theatre Company present:
Bonbon is Back! Autumn Bonbon Cabaret season kicks off with a lineup of comedy, music and unexpected turns...
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8.00pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Starring the fabulous VOGUEABONDS - those saucy sirens return from Brighton by popular demand
Stylish, glamorous and smutty, the Vogueabonds bring sophisticated close harmony and their own glorious sense of irreverence to the songs of Dillie Keane and Fascinating Aida.
Great supporting lineup including: Bartoune - a new swing trio featuring three of the Zen Hussies Critters - featuring Griff Daniels, Nikki Mascall, Steve Loudon and Steve Hurd in a rootsy trip through a great songbook - acoustic guitars, fretless bass and a trio of fine voices
and... The Widcombe Players are back in the building!
Regular features include the Grand Raffle (First prize: 2 first class return railway tickets to anywhere in First Great Western region!) and The Wind-up Merchant
Thursday 30th October 2008 Nick Steel and Natural Theatre Company present:
Bonbon Cabaret - Bonbon's Biggest Standup comedy, music and more with our biggest cast yet...
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8.00pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Starring WIL HODSGON, winner Perrier Best Newcomer 2004
'Wil Hodgson's frantically hilarious routine is about being an outsider, but then what would you expect from a mohicaned ex skinhead with tattoos and makeup that has a My Little Pony fixation' - The List
'An effortlessly spellbinding narrator. His stories are wry, laugh-out-loud funny, and genuinely affecting, running with a rhythm that makes him the closest thing we have to a West Country beat poet' - The Guardian Guide
Supporting lineup includes The Stockingtops choir - Bath's own answer to the Handbag of Harmonies – 'They are a fabulous troupe who look as good as they sound….these glamorous glitzy, golden girls'
The Widcombe Players will be returning and music will be supplied by the Duckworths Duo - Lawrie Laquiff and Jools play some favourites from their band and others.
Regular features include The Wind-up Merchant and the Grand Raffle
Sunday 2nd November 2008 James Lambeth's 45th Street Swing Classics from the great American songbook, sung and swung
Venue: Ring O Bells, 10 Widcombe Parade, Bath BA2 4JT
Time: 8.00pm - 10.00pm Price: Free admission
Perfect Sunday atmosphere in the bar/restaurant.
American-born James Lambeth is rapidly establishing himself as an up and coming singer of swing jazz. The very best of George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, Duke Ellington and many other legendary American songwriters. The 45th Street Swing trio features Joe Spibey on double bass and Terry Veal on guitar.
Licenced bar. Food served until 9.30pm
Thursday 27th November 2008 Nick Steel and Natural Theatre Company present:
Bonbon Cabaret - Bonbon's Bandstand Comedy, music and more...
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Starring ARTHUR SMITH - comic, broadcaster, writer, artist and grumpy old man...
Also starring THE MANDIBLES, Bath's favourite Swing/Jazz/Jam band
Supporting lineup includes The Widcombe Players, The Edsel Furys - up and coming 60s Garage revival band featuring James Lambeth, plus Swindon Elvis (irreverant mocking of The King), Nick Cudworth and The Titans (surreal improv comedy).
Regular features include The Wind-up Merchant and the Grand Raffle
Thursday 4th December 2008 Widcombe Illuminations Grand Switch On
Venue: Claverton Street, Widcombe, Bath
Time: 5.45pm
Musical Entertainment, late shopping, fun.
Follow Lady Margaret on her now traditional sherry crawl of all the local hostelries.
More info: 01225 469131
Sunday 7th December 2008 James Lambeth Trio Classics from the great American songbook, sung and swung
Venue: Ring O Bells, 10 Widcombe Parade, Bath BA2 4JT
Time: 8.00pm - 10.00pm Price: Free admission
Perfect Sunday atmosphere in the bar/restaurant.
American-born James Lambeth is rapidly establishing himself as an up and coming singer of swing jazz. The very best of George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, Duke Ellington and many other legendary American songwriters.
Featuring Jon Green on guitar and John Paul Gard on piano.
Licenced bar. Food served until 9.30pm
Sunday 14th December 2008 The Gaulois Brothers Gypsy Jazz performed with vintage style and suss
Venue: Ring O Bells, 10 Widcombe Parade, Bath BA2 4JT
Time: 8.00pm - 10.00pm Price: Free admission
Perfect Sunday atmosphere in the bar/restaurant.
Storming acoustic jazz, heavily influenced by Django Reinhardt's Hot Club de France of the 1930s. Hot swing guitars from Pete Nicholson and Simon Grimes plus new found talent Mirac on accordion.
Licenced bar. Food served until 9.30pm
Thursday 18th December 2008 Nick Steel and Natural Theatre Company present:
Bonbon's Baubles - Christmas Cabaret Showcase Music, comedy and more...
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Star studded lineup includes: John Sampson, madcap Scottish musician Fake Bush, almost the real thing, a.k.a. Lucy from the Vogueabonds Jump Mama, Bath's latest party band Lady Margaret & Penkevil The Widcombe Players plus special guest compere Pavel Douglas will be bringing Dickie Heart back to life
for the first date in his 'Thirty Year Sleep' Tour!
Regular features include The Wind-up Merchant and the Grand Raffle
Sunday 21st December 2008 James Lambeth's 45th Street Swing Classics from the great American songbook, sung and swung
Venue: Ring O Bells, 10 Widcombe Parade, Bath BA2 4JT
Time: 8.00pm - 10.00pm Price: Free admission
Perfect Sunday atmosphere in the bar/restaurant.
American-born James Lambeth is rapidly establishing himself as an up and coming singer of swing jazz. The very best of George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, Duke Ellington and many other legendary American songwriters. The 45th Street Swing trio features Joe Spibey on double bass and Terry Veale on guitar.
Licenced bar. Food served until 9.30pm
Thursday 26th February 2009 Nick Steel and Natural Theatre Company present:
Bonbon Cabaret - Bonbon's Comedy Special Stand-up comedy and more...
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8.00pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
World class stand-up comedy from Craig Campbell "Craig is, simply, a very, very funny man" - Chortle UK "A supremely confident, gifted comic" -The New Zealand Herald
and Seymour Mace - fab comedian recently seen in the Johnny Vegas TV series 'Ideal'
Plus the Hot Potato Syncopators, back by popular demand,
Jumping Blues from Swamp Donkey now featuring Martyn Dormer (Skiffle Haze) on uke and Mickey Tenfingers (Bill Smarme & The Bizness) on guitar!
Magic from The Amazing Eric, and of course our very own cult ham dram troupe, The Widcombe Players
Regular features include The Wind-up Merchant and the Grand Raffle
Thursday 26th March 2009 Nick Steel and Natural Theatre Company present:
Bonbon Cabaret - Bonbon's Sprung Thung Comedy, music and more...
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8.00pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362
More fabulous stand-up comedy from Alan Francis of Deep Dark Cuts fame
and music from angel-voiced James Hollingsworth and Pedalmania, starring Hammond jazz supremo John Paul Gard
Also featuring The Art Tart, Ivana Viagra and The Widcombe Players
Regular features include The Wind-up Merchant and the Grand Raffle
Adults Only
Licenced bar
Sponsored by Xerophon Promoted by Natural Theatre Company and Nick Steel
Links: www.xerophon.com www.naturaltheatre.co.uk
Wheelchair access with assistance
Thursday 2nd April 2009 Nick Steel & Bath Comedy Festival presents: B&NES IN THE DOCK David Bellotti, Chair of the Council, is arrested and tried for Council misdemeanours
Venue: Guildhall Banqueting Room, High Street, Bath
Time: 6.30pm Price: £22
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or online
Our favourite local Council stands accused of a variety of misdemeanours past and present. A hand-cuffed David Bellotti, Chair of the Council, is cross examined on a range of topical issues by a comic barrister. What will his clown of a defence lawyer have to say.... and will the judge declare him innocent?
Supported by B&NES and Natural Theatre Company
Sponsored by Timms Creative Communications and Nick Steel Entertains
Monday 6th April 2009 Nick Steel presents: THE AL PITCHER PICTURE SHOW Al Pitcher brings his new 2009 show to Bath as part of the Bath Comedy Festival
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 8.00pm Price: £8 / £6 concs
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or online
Every day we see things we've never seen before, things that strike us as odd or beautiful, and things that we've seen so many times we don't even notice them any more... Not Al Pitcher. His mind is constantly twisting, flipping and distorting what he sees, igniting the mundane, and for The Al Pitcher Picture show, weaving the events of his day in your town into a truly unique and hilarious one-off show. Every comic will tell you that a 'funny thing happened on the way to the gig', but, digital camera in hand, Al has the pictures to prove it! What does Al Pitcher make of Bath? There's only one way to find out...
Fresh from sell-out shows in Australia and New Zealand, don't miss your chance to catch Al Pitcher on his limited UK tour.
"Pitcher sits firmly in the improvising, rambling, freewheeling comedy camp inhabited by the likes of Ross Noble and Eddie Izzard. However, unlike both of them, Pitcher is one of the best kept secrets on the comedy scene. But it's only a matter of time" – Time Out
'Can reduce an audience to tears of laughter' - The Scotsman
'The Kiwi motormouth's crowd skills are second to none' - The Stage
Licenced bar
Sponsored by Xerophon Promoted by Nick Steel Entertains
Links: www.xerophon.com
Tuesday 7th April 2009 WOMEN ON THE MAKE A workshop performance of a brand new sketch comedy show
Venue: Natural Theatre Company rehearsal room/props store, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.00pm Price: £5 including cup cake
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or online
Featuring an all-female cast: Catherine Barrett, Hilary Strong and Angela Vick. This band of sisters stand poised at the edge of history, ready to fight, flirt and faff about. With straining sinews and last week's washing they are ready to make their mark - but usually miss. A comic brush with Ancient Britain, the French revolution and vital war work.
Written by Jeremy Towler and Angela Vick, directed by Nick Stimson. Supported by Natural Theatre Company.
Licenced bar
Thursday 9th April 2009 Nick Steel & Bath Comedy Festival present: BEST OF THE FEST A glittering celebration of the art of making people laugh.
Venue: The Guildhall Banqueting Room, High Street, Bath
Doors: 8.00pm Price: £22
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or online
Featuring a selection of some of the most entertaining acts from the Bath Comedy Festival, and some musical comedy treats, this special evening will represent everything that's great about the City of Bath, the joy of comedy and the fun of the festival.
Amongst others, featuring: World class stand-up from HANS TEEUWEN, CRAIG CAMPBELL, MARK OLVER
Musical comedy from John Sampson, Chris Dickins, Lady Margaret, The Hot Potato Syncopators
Licenced bar
Evening in aid of the Bath Comedy Festival (a not for profit company)
Produced by Nick Steel Entertains
Supported by B&NES and sponsored by Alex and Kate Timms.
Saturday 23rd May 2009 Natural Theatre Company and Nick Steel The White Wine Arts Trail An hilarious walking tour of all the Fringearts galleries. Venue: Galerie Le Bonbon (Mystery venue, see tickets for details)
Doors: 6.30 pm Time: 6.30 pm Price: £12 including fine wines
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362
- SOLD OUT
Darlings! Ralph Le Bon Bon's staggeringly (ahem) successful Fringe tour is back! Always the most outrageous event on the Fringe, Ralph Le Bonbon and his team of pretentious critics guide you round the Fringe Art galleries.
Lashings of culture, lashings of fine wine and a glittering awards ceremony at the end...if you can survive to the end, darlings.
Sponsored by Great Western Wine and Xerophon Supported by Milsom Place
Promoted by Natural Theatre Company and Nick Steel
Monday 25th May 2009 Nick Steel presents:
An evening of stand-up comedy at the Spiegeltent Triple bill of world class stand-up
Venue: The Fabulous Spiegeltent, Bath Recreation Ground
Doors: 7.30pm Time: 8.00pm Price: £12
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Starring ARTHUR SMITH - comic, broadcaster, writer, artist and grumpy old man...
ALAN FRANCIS - Scottish standup from the star of critically acclaimed Deep Dark Cuts
TOBY LONGWORTH - Enquire within...an often baffling, sometimes challenging and entirely improvised journey through a series of questions supplied by the audience.
Wednesday 3rd June 2009 Nick Steel and Natural Theatre Company present:
Bonbon Cabaret - Bonbon's Big Fringe Nite 'A fabulous nite of fringe frolics, the Bonbon Club is the dog's bollicks' Pam Ayres
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8.00pm Price: £12
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Stand-up comedy from Steve Williams "It's not often I laugh so hard I snort like a pig" - Chortle
Featuring Bill Smarme & The Bizness
"The Return of The Man With Lucky Lips"
Electric blues supremo Innes Sibun with a top band
Tongue-in-cheek am-dram from our regular irregulars, The Widcombe Players
Variety performance from Dominic Searle
And of course, the Grand Raffle
Friday 17th - Thursday 23rd July 2009 Natural Theatre Company presents:
A NIGHT AT THE BIJOU "Altogether a satisfyingly joyous evening of unbridled silliness" Venue Magazine ****
Venue: The Little Theatre Cinema, St Michael's Place, Bath BA1 1SF
Time: 7.30pm, matinees 2.30pm (Saturday, Sunday & Wednesday)
Price: £10, £9 concs, £8 Little Theatre members
Info & booking: The Little Theatre Cinema Box Office - Tel: 0871 704 2061.
email: little@picturehouses.co.uk or online www.picturehouses.co.uk
Do you yearn for the cinema of the 1950's? B movies, fag smoke clogging the projector beam, standing for the Queen at the end? Well, it's back! Following the successful sell out performances last year A Night at the Bijou returns to Bath.
The internationally renowned Natural Theatre Company have brought the aged (and odd) staff of the Bijou Cinema out of retirement to shine their torches and tear your tickets one more time at The Little Theatre Cinema, 17th – 23rd July 2009 at 7.30pm, matinees 2.30pm Saturday, Sunday & Wednesday.
The atmospheric Little Theatre Cinema is the perfect setting for this revival of the best, and worst, of good old fashioned movie-going. In spite of many refurbishments to keep the cinema up to date The Little Theatre has retained the charm and welcoming warmth of a 1930's cinema.
Where better to enjoy the 'best' horror B movie of all time, The Bride of the Monsterstarring Bela Lugosi.
The Naturals bring the film to life in their own inimitable style with the added help from smell-o-vision and wet-o-rama!
So, if you can get past old Sprocket, the commissionaire, you'll be shown to your seat by flirty usherette, Honey Wagon (runner up of "Miss Hot Dog" 1958). Once in your seat you can relax while Ernie Glissando runs his hands over his mighty Organ and encourages you to sing along to his bouncing balls. Before the film begins there's just time to grab something cold and creamy from Gladys, the oldest usherette in the world.
Wear your best 1950's outfits (prizes for the best dressed), watch a real 1950's B movie and sample 3D vision! Sample the usherettes! But no snogging in the back row!!
Tickets priced at £10 full price, £9 concessions and £8 for Little Theatre Members, available from The Little Theatre Cinema Box Office, St Michael's Place, Bath BA1 1SF, Tel: 0871 704 2061, email: little@picturehouses.co.uk or visit www.picturehouses.co.uk
Take a visit into the Naturals world and sample a snippet of the evening on their video gallery www.naturaltheatre.co.uk
Thursday October 22nd 2009
Nick Steel and Natural Theatre Company present:
Bonbon Cabaret - Bonbon's Autumn Tints The new Bonbon Cabaret season kicks off with an autumnal feel
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8.00pm Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or online
Featuring:
Nick Steel and Natural Theatre Company present:
Bonbon Cabaret - Bonbon's Big Bang
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8.00pm Price: £10 (students £8 on the door with valid card)
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online BOOK NOW
Featuring:
Stand-up comedy from MARK OLVER (recently touring the UK supporting Russell Howard)
and the "Deliciously warm and witty" DAN MARCH (he won Blockbusters when he was 17 you know...)
Back by popular demand - 60s garage band THE EDSEL FURYS with James Lambeth in non-crooner mode
Starting proceedings is NICK CUDWORTH on the boogie woogie piano
Regular features include another Grand Raffle and your genial (or not) host Ralph le Bonbon
Adults Only
Licenced bar. Mrs Chipp's Bonbon Kitchen.
GRAND WIDCOMBE SWITCH-ON
Time: 6pm for 6.20pm until 7.30pm. Free. Charity collection
Place: Outside White Hart, Widcombe and throughout Claverton Street
Lady Margaret and friends will launch the Widcombe Christmas Lights at 6.20pm followed by a perambulation along the street where there will be mince pies, mulled wine, late shopping and continental cafe society! Both coffee shops will be open, along with a selection of Widcombe's specialist shops and pubs.
The Widcombe Junior School Choir and the Baptist Church singers will be providing carols and the Widcombe Wobblers scratch orchestra will be playing. Lady Margaret will be cutting the ribbon on several new businesses and receiving a make-over at the new ethical beauty salon!
Thursday December 17th 2009
Nick Steel and Natural Theatre Company present:
Bonbon Cabaret - Bonbon's Christmas Baubles A bumper Christmas Cabaret Showcase
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8.00pm Price: £12 (students £9 on the door with valid card)
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or online
Starring the fantastic Canadian stand-up CRAIG CAMPBELL
The HOT POTATO SYNCOPATORS - swing classics on ukelele, tea chest bass and musical saw
Sketch troupe NEW OLD FRIENDS are back with a new set
Exciting danceable funky local award winning newcomers THE IDIOT SAVANTS
Regular features include the Grand Raffle and your genial (or not) host Ralph le Bonbon
Adults Only
Licenced bar. Mrs Chipp's Bonbon Kitchen.
Nick Steel and Natural Theatre Company present:
Bonbon Cabaret - Bonbon's Fabulous February Frolics Brilliant comedy, great music and prizes galore! In aid of Widcombe Rising
Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8.00pm Price: £12 (Students and Widcombe Social Club members £9 on the door with valid card)
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Starring PIFF THE MAGIC DRAGON - Stunning magic, deadpan humour and a penchant for princesses...
The PROS FROM DOVER - A riot of innovative sketch comedy starring Phil Whelans and Richard Glover
THE MIGHTY PEAS are back - pop classics as you've never heard them before!
And introducing ANGEL RIDGE - Cowboy folk from Emmy Lou Harris to Bob Dylan
Regular features include the Grand Raffle and your genial (or not) host Ralph le Bonbon
Adults Only
Licenced bar. Mrs Chipp's Bonbon Kitchen.
Natural Theatre Company presents:
'Whodunnit' by Anthony Shaffer
Venue: Natural Theatre HQ, Widcombe Institute, Widcombe Hill, Bath BA2 6AA
Doors: 7.45pm Time: 8.00pm Price: £10 In aid of Natural Theatre's Mezzanine Youth Theatre Project
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
This is an animated reading of the famous spoof thriller performed by Natural Theatre regulars Pavel Douglas, Ralph Oswick and Ric Jerrom, with live sound effects by Haf Morgan.
Bath Comedy Festival is back for April 1st - 11th 2010 and is alive and kicking in Widcombe - here is the programme at the Widcombe Social Club:
Saturday 3rd April 2010
Nick Steel presents:
The Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre
Venue: Widcombe Social Club (Lakeside Suite), Widcombe Hill, Bath
Time: 8.00pm
Price: £7.50
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online The Socks are the comedy double act that has to be seen to be believed.
The stars of BBC 3's Comedy Shuffle and Upstaged, and MTV's Best Show Ever, and the darlings of YouTube bring you songs, sketches, socks and violence.
BEST SHOW Nominee - Leicester Comedy Awards 2009
"For sheer energy and laughs per hour, these comic stockings are the biz – denier miss it" - **** The Scotsman
"A show that will rock your socks off - if only all laundry could be this fun" - **** Three Weeks
Nick Steel presents:
Sunday lunch with Arthur Smith
Venue: Widcombe Social Club (Big Room), Widcombe Hill, Bath
Time: 12.30pm
Price: £14.50 including Sunday roast beef lunch
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online A stalwart of Edinburgh and Bath Festivals for many years and founding father of the
alternative comedy circuit:
this comedian, broadcaster,
writer, artist and grumpy old man requires no introduction.
Written especially for the Bath Comedy
Festival, this new show promises to be
intriguing and highly entertaining.
This one-off Easter Sunday performance combines a roast beef lunch and show. Early booking essential.
'A huge laugh and a career that blends
surrealism and one-liners in equal measure' BBC
There is also an Easter Monday evening performance.
Nick Steel presents:
Arthur Smith's Curious Evening
Venue: Widcombe Social Club (Big Room), Widcombe Hill, Bath
Time: 8.00pm
Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
A stalwart of Edinburgh and Bath Festivals for many years and founding father of the
alternative comedy circuit:
this comedian, broadcaster,
writer, artist and grumpy old man requires no introduction.
Written especially for the Bath Comedy
Festival, this new show promises to be
intriguing and highly entertaining.
Also featuring talented sketch troupe New Old Friends.
'A huge laugh and a career that blends
surrealism and one-liners in equal measure' BBC
There is also an Easter Sunday performance which includes a roast lunch.
Nick Steel presents:
Inside Alan Francis & Barnaby Power
Venue: Widcombe Social Club (Lakeside Suite), Widcombe Hill, Bath
Time: 8.00pm
Price: £8
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Two of the country's finest comic performers bring you sketches and characters that bite.
As seen in the sell out show Deep Dark Cuts.
After appearing together on BBC Radio 4's Inside Alan Francis the fine comic actors return once again to Bath to perform a series of dark comic vignettes that rip open the underbelly and release the bile. They are proud to present the kind of characters you would only take home to your Mum's for tea if you never ever wanted to see her again! A Buddhist for whom too much strong lager might imbalance his Ying and his Yang … a geriatric medium more interested in copping a feel than communing with the dead, a couple of polar explorers prepared to sacrifice all, even home-cooking, for England. Mix with stand-up, a little song and some vitriol, add grossly foul language and stir gently for an hour. This show is sure to have edge.
'Some of the most sinister and surreal comic creations this side of The League of Gentlemen' *****' Sunday Herald
'Odd, uncomfortable and extremely funny' **** List
'Timing that could give accurist a run for its money' **** Scotsman
'Darkly funny: a gloriously offensive sketch show' Daily Telegraph
'Well written sketches that suggest a glowing future lies ahead for this deep dark duo' Metro
'Banter filled sketches that initially resemble something by The Two Ronnies, but soon reveal a much darker underbelly' London Evening Standard
'Appealingly black show…homes in on the less savoury aspects of human nature' Independent
'One of the classiest examples of loud-mouthed filth you're ever likely to experience' Chortle
Venue: Widcombe Social Club (Big Room), Widcombe Hill, Bath
Time: 8pm Price: £12
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
Expect comedy songs and gags galore from this well loved double act, here once again to prove they're still alive and old's cool...
Barry Cryer is one of the country's greatest comic writers and unchallenged King of the One-Liner. Barry has appeared in TV and Radio shows spanning over four decades and is star of Radio 4's top-rated comedy quiz show I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue.
Ronnie Golden - Veteran rock 'n' roller, stand-up chameleon, leader of 70s mind-mangling punk rock comedy combo The Fabulous Poodles plus Club Senseless' own Ronnie And The Rex. Widely respected as both a musician and a stand-up, his unique mix of guitar parodies and keenly observed humour have made him one of the top headline acts in the country.
Pavel Douglas & Andy Burden in association with Natural Theatre Company present:
I Shot Dirty Den
Venue: Natural Theatre HQ, Widcombe Institute, Widcombe Hill, Bath BA2 6AA
Doors: 7.30pm Price: £10 In aid of Natural Theatre's Mezzanine Youth Theatre Project
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
The smash hit Edinburgh Fringe one man show. Pavel really did have Dirty Den shot in Eastenders and his account of that incident and other theatre and telly adventures is in turn hilarious and touching.
In aid of Natural Theatre's Mezzanine Project.
Wine bar.
Bath Fringe Festival runs 28th May - 13th June 2010
Here is the comedy programme at the Widcombe Social Club:
Wednesday 9th June 2010
Nick Steel presents:
Steve Gribbin - 'Laugh at First Sight' and Ben Norris A Double Bill of Fabulous Fringe Comedy
Venue: Widcombe Social Club (Lakeside Suite), Widcombe Hill, Bath
Time: 8.00pm
Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
BEN NORRIS is a well loved performer on the UK circuit and around the world. A regular compere at The Comedy Store, he has appeared on the BBC's "Mock The Week", "Never Mind The Buzzcocks" and "They Think It's All Over", and enjoyed sellout success in Edinburgh. Ben has an ascerbic attitude, his sharp biting comments being cushioned by an easy-going everyman persona which never fails to endear him to his audience.
"The person who really makes me laugh is a comedian called Ben Norris. I have sat with the finest comics working today and we've all been helpless with laughter while Ben sits talking...Truly a sight to behold."Ed Byrne "A wonderful disgrace of a human being"Daniel Kitson
STEVE GRIBBIN co-founded comedy music double act Skint Video, one of the major acts of the 1980s 'Alternative Comedy' scene. 3000 gigs later, and with over 400 original comedy songs he is one of the top performers on the circuit and a regular member of the weekly topical show "The Cutting Edge" at London's Comedy Store.
'Laugh At First Sight' is a brand new show examining Steve's torrid love affair with the comedic arts, detailing the ups, downs, stony silences, euphoric highs, sulphuric lows and sheer unadulterated strangeness of a life devoted to that sternest of mistresses, Comedy.
"Like a harder, more political, less troll-like Bill Bailey, the fantastic Steve Gribbin had the place in stitches as he regaled us with his biting satire."The Independent On Sunday
Nick Steel presents:
Toby Longworth - 'Enquire Within', Alan Francis & Neil McFarlane A Triple Bill of Fabulous Fringe Comedy
Venue: Widcombe Social Club (Lakeside Suite), Widcombe Hill, Bath
Time: 8.00pm
Price: £10
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
TOBY LONGWORTH is a versatile actor with a background in comedy and a speciality in voice-over. He's performed in TV's "Skins" and "The IT Crowd" plus numerous Radio 4 productions, and his voice-overs appear in Star Wars Episode I and Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy.
'Enquire Within' is an often baffling, sometimes challenging and entirely improvised journey through a series of questions supplied by the audience.
"Assured and engaging, a mix of terrible jokes well told and surreal flights of fantasy, he ad-libbed fluidly from an impersonation of a remote-controlled Gordon Brown to the idea of Bath MP Don Foster as a cocaine smuggler. Marvellous."Bath Chronicle "Toby Longworth is an undiscovered jewel..funny, funny, funny."Rob Brydon "A terrific natural comedian."Bill Bailey
ALAN FRANCIS first came to the attention of comedy audiences by winning the So You Think You're Funny Award back in 1991.
Since then he's had many critically acclaimed acting roles, has written and performed Alistair McGowan's Big Impression, Alan Partridge & Alexei Sayle shows, and on Radio 4 co-starred on Alan Davies' show and recently starred in Inside Alan Francis.
"Smooth, classy and elegant as a vintage Scotch, a seductive performer"Chortle "Acutely observed character monologues, sardonic wit at its best"The List
NEIL MCFARLANE - Neil's act combines the surreal, wordplay, topical material, personal experience, and an unhealthy preoccupation with gin.
He is an example of that rare species – a self-confessed and relatively shameless middle-class Glaswegian.
Allow him to divert you from the horrific truth of your own existential plight, and occasionally use the word 'mallard'.
Saturday 12th June 2010
Widcombe Association in association with Natural Theatre Company and Nick Steel present:
The Palladian Bridge Picnic
Venue: Prior Park - Palladian Bridge
Time: from 6pm Price: Please pay £3 at the gate, children 50p
All monies collected go to Widcombe Rising, so all donations welcome!
Featuring A Handbag of Harmonies, John Sampson, The Widcombe Wobblers and the Pramophone.
The ladies choir from Chester – the ones with the pink feather boas – is back for Widcombe Rising, and have again volunteered this fundraiser the night before.
Entrance at the Church Lane gate only.
Note there is only parking for disabled by arrangement (please phone 01225 315491).
THERE IS NO ACCESS FOR OTHER CARS IN CHURCH LANE – so picnics will have to be carried.
Parking is available at Prior Park Garden Centre.
Sunday 13th June 2010
Natural Theatre Company and Nick Steel in association with the Widcombe Association present: WIDCOMBE RISING Bath's biggest and best fun day
Venue: Claverton Street, Widcombe, Bath and surrounding streets
Time: 1.30pm-7.30pm Price: £2 including free programme
Info: watch this space for updates
Widcombe Rising street party will be back on Sunday 13th June 2010 with a watery theme to celebrate the 200th anniversay of the Kennet & Avon Canal.
Supported by local traders, so please support them!
WIDCOMBE RISING UPDATE:
Preparations for Bath's biggest family fun day, Widcombe Rising, are coming on apace. The event will see the main street in Widcombe closed off on Sunday 13th June and transformed from a chasm of roaring traffic to a wonderful street party celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Kennet and Avon canal. The surrounding streets will also be closed and filled with picnic tables covered with crisp white linen, three outdoor music stages, street theatre, music and fun. Café society will be provided by the area's many fine bistros and pubs and the whole thing will be once again presided over by the enormous Widcombe Eye.
New this year will be a self-contained children's activities area, a farmers' market selling a large range of fresh produce and a giant helter skelter. Another new development will be a fully programmed indoor stage in the Widcombe Social Club where local bands will be strutting their stuff.
Widcombe's very own doyenne of culture, Lady Margaret, will once again be presenting her anarchic dog show (all pooches welcome, but heavy fines will be imposed if there is a repeat of the fighting that occurred last time. That goes for the dogs too!). This will take place in The Lady Margaret Arena, no less, which will also host the women's Morris dancing and This Side Up, a troupe of gravity-defying Australian acrobats.
Amongst several watery-themed activities will be Artizani's Punt on Wheels, an elaborate canal treasure trail and street theatre performed by Natural Theatre's Fountain of Natural Youth project. In St. Matthew's church a fascinating exhibition on the history of the canal is being staged. These canal-related events are supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund to raise awareness of the importance of the canal to the history and future development of Widcombe.
To tie in with the theme, the organisers are inviting everyone to dress as pirates. We doubt that any pirate ship ever sailed the canal, but for one day the entire street will be decked with skull and crossbones flags. Both Captain Pugwash and Captain Hook will be joining local dignitaries and visitors to dance the specially-written Widcombe Hornpipe which will be a feature of the opening ceremony.
Widcombe Rising is free, but we ask everyone attending to buy a souvenir programme on entry to help cover costs. This year the programme is being sponsored and produced by Future Publishing so it should be very desirable…especially as it incorporates various voucher schemes and competitions. Widcombe Rising is generously supported by local businesses and individuals but income from programmes is an essential component of the budget!
Widcombe's streets will be closed from 8am to 10.30pm with a tow away scheme in operation for naughty parkers. The actual event takes place from 1.30pm to 7.30pm. All pitches for stalls are now filled, but we still need volunteer stewards on the day as well as muscle-power in the morning and evening set-up and take-down periods.
Update issued by Ralph Oswick and Nick Steel, co-organisers.
You can contact the organisers using the online contact form or by telephone on 01225 469131
Widcombe Rising is a non profit event organised by Ralph Oswick and Nick Steel
Sunday 17th October 2010 Nick Steel presents:
Sunday Lunch with Bill Smarme & The Bizness Roast lunch and musical comedy show
Venue: Widcombe Social Club (Big Room), Widcombe Hill, Bath
Time: Doors 12.30pm
Price: £14.50 including roast lunch
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online
BILL SMARME - international entertainer, love guru, connoisseur of fine marmalades, and building contractor - sends up most styles of music.
The band will bring you songs of love, pork pies, binder twine, and Twerton - all in the best possible taste.
This one-off show includes a roast beef lunch. (There will be vegetarian gravy and a meat alternative available).
Thursday 2nd December 2010 Widcombe Christmas Lights Switch-on
Venue: Claverton Street - meet outside the White Hart
Time: 6pm
Come and join Lady Margaret & friends for the grand switch-on, and why not enjoy the Bonbon Cabaret Christmas Special afterwards!
Thursday 2nd December 2010 Nick Steel & Natural Theatre present:
Bonbon Cabaret Christmas Special Bonbon returns with an evening of fabulous sketch comedy and music
Venue: Widcombe Social Club (Big Room), Widcombe Hill, Bath
Doors: 7.45pm
Price: £12 (NATs and Social Club members £8 on the door)
Info & booking: Bath Festivals box office tel 01225 463362 or
online BOOK NOW
Starring THE REAL MACGUFFINS - a London-based comedy sketch trio; they are Dan (EastEnders) March, Jim (Oliver!) Millard and Matt (nothing) Sheahan in alphabetical order (not importance...well...actually, yes that too). One's taller, one's shorter and one looks like a cat and they're bringing their latest cavalcade of characters to Bath!
From eerie shopkeepers to the world's worst mountaineers, from disturbing tea ladies to everyone's favourite graphic design-based mobsters 'The Fonterellis', this is a delightful mixture of character-driven material and daft sketches, all bound together with some serious punning talent.
Directed by Cal McCrystal, who has directed the legendary Peepolykus and The Mighty Boosh, The Real MacGuffins mix originality with quick-fire puns, gags and fast-paced sketches to create a riotous show that takes an awful lot of pleasure in poking fun at the world.
They were a big hit in Edinburgh:
"Three very funny men"**** Three Weeks "One of the most original and riotous comedy shows at the (Edinburgh) Festival…a relentless display of wit and creativity"***** FreshAir.org.uk "Truly inventive…deliciously daft…the acting is as slick as their matching suit jackets"The List "…incredibly silly and funny...these are three very talented performers whose comedy dynamic adds a nice extra layer to the show"Kate Copstick, The Scotsman
Also featuring THE GOODNIGHT SWEETHEARTS - 1940's Cabaret starring Connie and Flo. Listen to their live BBC broadcast and have a ticketyboo time and a jolly ol' knees up!
And...the long awaited return of the THE WIDCOMBE PLAYERS - putting the 'am' back in ham dram!
To top it off THE CRITTERS will take you dancing a rootsy trip through a great songbook - acoustic guitar, fretless bass, sax and a trio of fine voices
There'll also be the Grandest of Grand Raffles, Bonbon style! Prizes include hot air balloon rides!
Starting us off will be our favourite Boogie Woogie pianist Nick Cudworth
Throughout the evening there will be a licenced bar and Mrs Chipps' Kitchen, catering for your every need!
Thanks to everyone who came to the Widcombe switch-on and Christmas Bonbon Cabaret
There will be more Bonbon and other events next year - look out for Sunday Lunch with Lady Margaret and Friends and other special happenings.
Widcombe Social Club will be hosting a series of fabulous comedy shows during Bath Comedy Festival - see www.bathcomedy.com for more information and updates.
There is a nice account of recent Widcombe happenings on the Widcombe Association web site written by Paddy Doyle - click here to read it
Widcombe resident Anthony Grimley made this video of the Switch-on event from 2nd December:
Bath Comedy Festival events in Widcombe
Full Festival programme at www.bathcomedy.com
Opening Night April Fool's Stand-up Show
Date: Friday 1st April, 2011 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 2hrs Price: £10
Start the Festival in style! This is an evening packed with comedy from a great team which includes:
Seymour Mace, recently seen in "Ideal" with Johnny Vegas
Local favourite comic actor Toby Longworth
And two great Scottish comedians -
Alan Francis, recently seen on Alan Partridge and oft heard on Radio 4
Up-and-coming self confessed "posh Glaswegian" Neil McFarlane, fast becoming hot property on the comedy circuit.
Date: Tuesday 5th April, 2011 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 2hrs Price: £5
Mark Olver follows his 3 successful Edinburgh stand-up shows with a new thing. It's sort of stand-up, it's sort of theatre, it's sort of scary.
It will be funny, but it is slightly unusual.
Mark Olver is a highly popular comic and TV warm-up artist, having done 3 Edinburgh shows and headlined and compered for all the top clubs in the UK.
**** Chortle **** The Scotsman **** Fest
This is something new.
Support: Jared Hardy and Fin Taylor - With Full Orchestra
"Join two of the hottest new acts to burst out of Bristol's infamous comedy scene for an hour of silliness. Fin ('a natural talent' - BroadwayBaby) and Jared (Comedy Reserve) combine uplifting stories with fearless ad-libbing to produce a symphony of hilarity for one night only. Hold on to your wives!"
Date: Wednesday 6th April, 2011 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 2hrs Price: £10
Award-winning comedian and Radio 4 star Jo Caulfield has been dubbed the funniest woman in Britain, and lives up to this with razor-sharp wit, acerbic observations and scandalous one-liners, al excellently written and impeccably delivered.
Seen on Have I Got News For You, Michael McIntyres? Comedy Roadshow and Mock The Week, she?s also been one of the top comedy highlights at Edinburgh Fringe where her stand-up shows have been selling out for years.
"Wonderfully sharp and bitchy. One of the finest female comics at work" ***** Observer
"Sharp-witted, urban comedy that goes down a treat" ***** The Times
Date: Thursday 7th April, 2011 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 2hrs Price: £10
Raconteur and rural bon-viveur, with a rapier-like wit, Sid Kipper is a true comic original. Stand-up comedian, storyteller, surrealist folk singer, master of a bewildering array of bewildering instruments, and the funniest man in Norfolk, he has been a stalwart of the club and festival scene for over 25 years. Over the last decade or so he has developed his epic tale of the village of St Just-near-Trunch in six albums, five books and two series for Radio 2. This is his first visit to Bath. Unmissable.
"Sir Henry at Rawlinson End, with a dash of Flann O?Brien. Very funny" ? The Guardian
Support: Man Overboard - folk duo featuring Martyn Dormer "They say you can?t polish a turd, but these chaps will give it their best shot!"
Pros from Dover & The Real MacGuffins - Sketch Comedy Night
Date: Friday 8th April, 2011 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 2hrs Price: £10
Two smash hit sketch groups in one night!
Pros from Dover
A riot of innovative sketch comedy from inventive to wildly hysterical, starring Phil Whelans and Richard Glover - both accomplished actors with numerous TV & Film credits from BrassEye and Armstrong & Miller to The Mighty Boosh and St Trinians - and "new boy" Sean Garratt
"Outstanding" - Time Out "Hilarious" - The Independent "Sketches with twin advantages of brevity and, most rare this, proper punchlines" - Chortle
The Real MacGuffins
A delightful mixture of character-driven material and daft sketches from fabulous original sketch trio Dan March, James Millard and Matt Sheahan One's taller, one's shorter and one looks like a cat and they're bringing their latest cavalcade of characters to Bath! Directed by Cal McCrystal, (Peepolykus, The Mighty Boosh), The Real MacGuffins mix originality with quick-fire puns, gags and fast-paced sketches to create a riotous show that takes an awful lot of pleasure in poking fun at the world.
"Three very funny men" **** Three Weeks "One of the most original and riotous comedy shows at the (Edinburgh) Festival?a relentless display of wit and creativity" ***** FreshAir.org.uk "Truly inventive?deliciously daft?the acting is as slick as their matching suit jackets" - The List "?incredibly silly and funny...these are three very talented performers whose comedy dynamic adds a nice extra layer to the show" - Kate Copstick, The Scotsman
Date: Saturday 9th April, 2011 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 1.5hrs Price: £6
A chance to see some of the top comedans from the former Yugoslavia!
We are all aware of, or at least convinced we're rather knowledgeable about Eastern Europe. But, how about its South?
Apart from the war a decade or so ago and football players kicking it about in our Isles, do you actually know what is it all about now? Or how it was in the past?
These people are too young to remember the era of Communism. They were just young enough to avoid fighting in the war, but old enough to enjoy driving a Yugo! In a nutshell, these children of transition have got so much to tell you!
Do not expect a lesson of local geography and history. Sure there will be some of that as well, but you will also be hearing about their lives, and some of you will be (un)pleasantly surprised to learn that they are pretty much the same as yours...
These four Balkan Boys are the following...
Pedja Bajovic Montenegrin-born and Serbian-raised Bosnian living in Croatia. In short, a Yugoslav. He's currently in charge of producing this whole thing. Also a comedian? Yes and a very fine one. Tastes like chicken.
Tin Vodopivec One of the founders of the Slovenian stand up comedy scene. Calm, soft-spoken observer. Occasionally slightly confused.
Perica Jerkovic A Bosnian-born mover and shaker. There is always something new from this guy. Sharp and loud when needed.
Domagoj Pintaric One of the Top 3 aggressive people in Croatia (which was very hard to achieve), also a comedian with a bright sense of observational humour. A sight for sore eyes!
Date: Sunday 10th April, 2011 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Doors: 12.30pm for 1pm show Duration: 2hrs Price: £16.50 incl. lunch
Come and enjoy a roast beef Sunday lunch* and an hour show from our favourite world class Canadian comedian Craig Campbell.
Described by some as the Canadian Billy Connolly, Craig Campbell never fails to entertain. His unique ability to find humour in the mundane, coupled with his own natural eccentricity makes for truly inventive storytelling.
Fresh from a tour supporting Frankie Boyle, Craig is on brilliant form, as ever. His travel anecdotes are hilarious and well observed and his honest delivery and genuine joy of life is an absolute pleasure to watch.
"Craig is, simply, a very, very funny man" - Chortle
Ivan Brackenbury's Hospital Radio & Ian D. Montfort Spirit Medium
Double bill of Tom Binns' greatest character creations!
Date: Wednesday 8th June 2011 Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath BA2 6AA Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show
A chance to see both of Tom's smash hit Edinburgh shows in one evening!
Ian D. Montfort: "A spookily skilful, wonderfully observed and hysterically funny character who contacts dead celebrities with incredible results. A monster hit at the Edinburgh Fringe" ***** Time Out
"Gloriously deadpan pseudo-psychic. His show - Touching the Dead begins with laughable attempts to work the audience and then Binns starts unleashing faintly inexplicable clairvoyant revelations, leaving most of the room gasping with incredulity. So he can spoof it, and really ?do it?" ***** Telegraph Ivan Brackenbury's Hospital Radio: "The whole room was in hysterics from the word go, endorphin-filled laughter indeed proving the best medicine. Brackenbury is absolutely utterly hilarious - I can?t recommend this enough. Go see it." **** The Age
"Laughs per minute the funniest show at the Fringe" **** Time Out
Plus support from a Bath Comedy Festival 2011 New Act Competition finalist.
Music & Comedy Cabaret from Bill Smarme & The Bizness plus Guests
Dates: Friday 16th and Saturday 17th September 2011 Venue: Ring O Bells (upstairs), 10 Widcombe Parade, Bath BA2 4JT Doors: 7.30pm for 8.00pm show
During the Bath Fringe Festivals of the noughties, Bill Smarme brought entertainment from his now legendary pub the Smarmes Arms in Twerton to the intimate atmosphere of the Ring O Bells in Widcombe. Despite annoying the regulars of both establishments, Bill was undeterred and the event ran for four successful years. And it's back !! On 16th & 17th of September, Bill Smarme & The Bizness will be headlining two fabulous nights of Smarmtastic entertainment in the Ring O' Bells. The shows will be hosted by Bill's unlikely friend and Radio 3 presenter Jeremy Creve-Coeur, and the band will be supported by special surprise guests "what perform in me boozer from time to time" (in Bill's words.)
For those that don't know, Bill Smarme is an entertainer of international standing, a ladies' man (apparently), and bon viveur. The band will embark on an off-beat and often hilarious musical odyssey; Nashville, tribute rock, pop, and easy-listening schmaltz all receive the Smarme treatment.
Bill also runs his own successful building firm Smarmerection (Building for Nobs). See him after the show to find out how you can have that dream extension.
Date: Thursday 1st December 2011 Venue: Starts outside the White Hart, Widcombe Hill, Bath BA2 6AA Doors: 6.15pm for 6.30pm switch-on
Join Lady Margaret and her Natural Theatre friends for another festive frolic as we take a seasonal stroll along Claverton Street!
Music, mulled wine, carols, Christmas trees aglow, late shopping and much Widcombesque bonhomie.
Lady Margaret promises to be sporting a brand new Christmas frock and the Natural Youth Theatre will be doing their youthful stuff.
Gather at the White Hart at 6 for the switch-on at 6.30. Yes, we know the lights will be on already, but as Stanislavski was wont to say 'Suspension of belief is the key to all drama'.
Henning Wehn's German Christmas Do: No Surrender at Christmas
A one-off performance of Henning's Christmas show!
Date: Thursday 1st December 2011 Venue: Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, Bath BA2 6AA Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show
SOLD OUT - SORRY
A chance to catch Henning's new stand-up show and Christmas special outside London!
Join German Comedy Ambassador Henning Wehn for this meticulously planned and perfectly executed German Christmas Do.
In addition to his current stand-up show No Surrender there will be renditions of Germany's most favourite Christmas carols such as 'Oh Tannenbaum', 'Stille Nacht heilige Nacht', and 'Klingglöckchen klingelingelingelingelingeling'.
He has ways of making you laugh. And sing!
NB: This show is a guaranteed success. Either it will be funny or Henning will live up to the national stereotype. It's a win-win situation. Wunderbar!
Date: Friday 9th December 2011
Venue: Widcombe Social Club
Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show
Live music from headliners the Snorting Dogs and their classy compadres Bohemian Embassy, with both bands and Dragonfly sound system contributing their services free of charge in support of next summer's Widcombe Rising street party.
This is a rare home town gig for the Snorting Dogs, who have been quietly busy, spreading their gritty Cracker blues magic from West Wales to the West End with an unconventional "word of mouth, no recordings" approach. Bookings in Switzerland and Hungary for a forthcoming European tour, together with a hush hush project involving household names from the world of music indicate that home town appearances look set to become rarer still.
Bohemian Embasasy describe themselves as "Ambassadors of the strange, the wonderful and the socially unconventional" and have been continuing their triumphal cage rattling charge through genre preconceptions across the West. "The best live performance band - these guys are the future of music - end of!!" - Lost Legion Records. "Hands down, The Bohemian Embassy are the only band I have ever seen in my life that made my jaw drop instantly, WOW" - Brighton Fusion Radio
So, come and enjoy two cracking bands and raise a glass or two for Widcombe Rising, whilst raising funds to aid it's continuing success.
Free entry (donations to Widcombe Rising). Raffle. Mrs Chipps' Kitchen.
Raffle prizes include: a signed Kasabian promo CD, a bottle of Champagne, a meal at the Ring O Bells, a bottle of Wray & Nephews Rum and more...
Winter Wonderband present Yule be Here
Enjoy this rare chance to see four top folk musicians performing together.
Date: Wedneday 21st December 2011
Venue: Widcombe Social Club - Lakeside Suite
Time: 7.30pm doors for 8pm show
Maclaine Colston, Saul Rose, Jennifer Crook and Beth Porter have teamed up to celebrate the music born out of our great British winter with their mastery of the Dulcimer, Melodeon, Harp and Cello. Expect great sing-a-longs, real foot stompers, beautiful ballads and lots of laughs as these great friends pull together all sorts of musical treats from their collective repertoires. It's not all about Christmas, but it is all about the time of year and how it brings us together.
ABOUT THE BAND:
Saul Rose - Melodeons, singing
Maclaine Colston - Dulcimer, singing
Jennifer Crook - Harp, singing
Beth Porter - Cello, singing
Fresh from starring in the West End play 'War Horse' Saul Rose is "probably the best Melodeon player in the country" - Navigator Records. Saul has played for many years with Eliza Carthy and Waterson:Carthy, as has Maclaine Colston "The current most outstanding player (of the Hammered Dulcimer)" - Living Tradition.
Saul and Maclaine subsequently formed a duo and recorded "Sand and Soil". The album included guest vocals from Jennifer Crook who Maclaine was touring with (in her band "The Hawthorns") at the time.
Back in the old days Maclaine and Jenny were BBC Radio 2 Young Tradition Award finalists (as was Saul!), and as the duo Cythara they performed on BBC TV and recorded the music for the David Attenborough series 'The Private Life of Plants'.
More recently, Maclaine performed with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in 'Lord of the Rings' at the Royal Albert Hall. Jennifer also played at the Royal Albert Hall during her tour of the UK and Ireland as harpist with Snow Patrol. Jennifer's latest album Merry-Go-Round, produced by Boo Hewerdine, features the much sought-after playing of cellist (and fellow Hawthorn!); Beth Porter.
Beth has worked with everyone from Peter Gabriel to Bellowhead and is currently touring with Eliza Carthy.
Three great gigs raising funds for the Social Club, Widcombe Rising and Oxfam.
BA1 Records shows it's got Woman Power
A Widcombe Social Club/Oxfam Fundraiser
Date: Thursday 8th March
Venue: Widcombe Social Club
Doors: 5.30pm til 11.30pm
The best female acts from BA1 Records are to hold a charity gig in aid of International Women's Day. Special guests Kelly and Alana are also headlining the bill.
The event will raise money for Oxfam which aims to celebrate the achievements of women across the globe.
The gig, which takes place on International Women's day – Thursday 8th March – will see an outstanding all-female line up, including Tallis Morris, Lily Stokes, Kelly and Alana, Laura Doggett, Shauna Hutch, Georgie Vale, Laura Conner, Rara Avis, Nostalgic Romantics, Fran and Bella, The BA1 Choir, Lil Mamas, The Unkown, Jojo Hapgood and Mojo.
Max Weedon, Head of BA1 Records, said: "International Women's Day is an event of real importance to society and we were keen to hold a local event to show our support.
"The very best of BA1 Records' female music acts will be appearing at the gig and we're hoping for great support from everyone across Bath – women and men!
"This is the second charity gig that we will be holding in Bath in March and underlines BA1 Records' position as a record label at the heart of the local community, championing the very best of Bath's up and coming musicians."
The International Women's Day gig takes place at Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe Hill, on Thursday 8th March from 5.30pm to 11.30pm. Entrance is free, but a £2 donation to Oxfam is encouraged.
A Widcombe Rising Fundraiser
Date: Friday 9th March
Venue: Widcombe Social Club
Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show
Live music from headliners The Duckworths and support Plucky Purcell, plus Little Vegas Casino.
Duckworths: Pop from a parallel dimension - the one where all the dark matter went - great melodies and sardonic asides from that Hitchcock of the chewed biro, Mr Lawrie Duckworth, and one of the most adept set of musicians in the west (BBC).
Plucky Purcell: Six Gentlemen funksters dish dizzyingly dirty danceability.
Little Vegas: Roulette wheel casino fun with Gebbie Jaeger.
Free entry - donations and raffle in aid of this summer's Widcombe Rising street party.
Mrs Chipps' Kitchen.
Grand Raffle star prize: signed print by Radiohead artist Stanley Donwood!
Dates announced: Friday 30th March - Monday 9th April
A whole 11 days at Widcombe Social Club incorporating 15 shows and over 50 performers forms the core programme of the Comedy Festival this year...
Details, booking links and the latest information is at www.bathcomedy.com
Wil Hodgson - Kidnapped by Catwoman
Edinburgh preview show
Date: Tuesday 29th May
Venue: Ring O Bells, Widcombe (upstairs)
Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show
From Catwoman to Samantha Fox Strip Poker via Frenchie's Slumber Party and Hattie Jacques Bed Bath: the crushes, fantasies and desires of a geeky 80s/90s childhood are explored in a confessional new show by Chippenham's cult storyteller.
As heard on Radio 4 and seen on Russell Howard's Good News.
"He is an inspired storyteller and his words are full of fire and beauty... He's a sort of urban warrior on behalf of all those who don't fit in" - The Scotsman "This is punk rock this is how it should be" - Mark Thomas "Genius" - Russell Howard
An evening of song
Date: Wednesday 30th May
Venue: Ring O Bells, Widcombe (upstairs)
Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show
Bath-based singer songwriter Jennifer Crook has surely elevated into "a talent with a white light future" (Musician). Her latest album 'Merry-Go-Round' was recorded in Glasgow with producer and hit songwriter Boo Hewerdine, and features guests like Eddi Reader and Nashville's Darrell Scott. The vivid storytelling, beautiful imagery, and infectious melodies on 'Merry-Go-Round' have earned her excellent reviews, national airplay and a session on BBC Radio 2 with the legendary Bob Harris.
As well as her captivating vocals, and sublime harp and guitar playing, Jennifer will be joined for tonights show by local legend Andrew Cresswell Davis of Stackridge/Korgis fame who will be performing songs from his forthcoming album. The combination of Andrew and Jennifer is an inspired one - whether taking the lead or adding their considerable instrumental skills to each others songs, the emphasis is on real songcraft and these two artists compliment each other beautifully.
"Utterly beguiling" - Properganda "A class act" - Radio 2 "Spellbinding" - Acoustic
**** "Brilliant" - Maverick
Date: Sunday 17th June 2012 Venue: Claverton Street and the surrounding streets Time: 1.30pm - 7.30pm
The roaring traffic comes to a halt and the streets of Widcombe will be filled with fun, food and frolics.
The frolics include al fresco dining, one indoor and three outdoor music stages showcasing the best bands around, a palm court tea room complete with a trio, giant snail racing, hula hoop workshops, and even a chance to learn the flying trapeze in the vertiginous nave of St Matthew's Church.
Bonkers street theatre includes stilt-walking cricketers, a mobile cocktail lounge, a visit from the official mascots of 'that' fast approaching July sporting event that we are nor allowed to mention, the Widcombe Mummers, Morris dancing and the world-famous Jaipur Kawa Brass Band whose number includes a sabre-swallowing dancer!
A whole walled area is being set aside for the little ones, with crafts and creative fun. We've called it Kids Kreative Korner because we love daft spelling, and it is generously sponsored by Bath Building Society Community Awards.
Claverton Street will be lined from end to end with bootleg Olympic flags, and to continue our Retro Olympics theme, Lady Margaret will present Mr Widcombe 2012 on the wonderfully decorative Melodrome stage. Anyone can enter…strong men, muscle men, wimps and, to keep things perfectly politically correct, even ladies in disguise. First prize is a weekend for two in any Hilton Hotel in the UK (conditions apply).
Her ladyship will of course also be struggling to control the ever popular Dog Show. Warning: contains adult themes and scenes of mild violence.
A whole street has been put aside for sporting activities, and in line with the aforementioned quirky spelling obsession, this will be dubbed Avenue of the Olympicks.
For your five a day you can visit the expanded farmers' market (the market has expanded, not the farmers) and of course all the Widcombe hostelries, pubs, eateries and bistros will be cooking away like Billy-oh.
In line with the current financial climate we have been forced to put entry prices up…but who can complain when you can get all this for just £2.50 per adult, kids free? Plus you get a programme designed by Stanley Donwood of Radiohead album fame, no less. Worth a fortune on eBay I reckon!
Volunteers still required. Ralph will be contacting those of you who have put your names forward shortly, but we still need strong people from 8am to help set everything up, and any number of less hefty individuals to patrol the site being nice, clearing tables, pointing the way and generally keeping the Health and Safety bods happy! Then we need the hefty (and sober) gang again from 7.30pm to pack it all away again. Please register with Ralph on 01225 469131 or ralph@naturaltheatre.co.uk or just turn up at the info Shop (next to the Ram) on the day to collect your hi-viz tabard! Over 18's only. No boring gate keeping this year…we have professional security operatives on duty throughout.
Widcombe Rising was set up to promote a bypass for the traffic-filled chasm that is our high street. Now it seems that goal has been achieved and we are really getting our bypass at last. So, this might well be the 5th and final Rising…enjoy!
WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT!
Widcombe Rising 2012 promises to be yet another fabulous day. Please give it all the support you can!
Widcombe Rising, c/o Widcombe Institute, Widcombe Hill, Bath BA2 6AA 01225 469131
Best wishes from organisers Ralph Oswick and Nick Steel
Good Fridays' Demolition Party
Last Nights at the Sosh
Date: Friday 28th September 2012 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Time: 7.30pm Price: FREE
Come to Good Fridays' Wrecking Ball (get it?) and say a final farewell to your favourite venue.
Good Fridays will be joined by good friends Agent Philby and the Funtans, Middle Stump, and Junction 18 - the best party bands in Bath. Plus the amazing DJ Wilky!
Help to bring the roof down and save the builders' efforts! Be there and you won't have to admit to anyone that you missed it! Free to get in!
Best of Bath Bands
Last Nights at the Sosh
Date: Saturday 29th September 2012 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Time: 6pm til late Price: FREE
Nick Steel presents: The Last Night at the Sosh (well, one of a few!)
A last chance to see some of your favourite bands, (and some new ones) in the familiar surroundings of Widcombe Social Club's retro function room.
All the bands are playing free (or cider) as a tribute to the wonderful tradition and legacy of the Club.
Featuring:
A Band Named Brian - Passion, wit and wisdom Bill Smarme - Local legend sings His Greatest Hits Duckworths Acoustic - Pop from an alternative universe -the one where all the dark matter went Dudlow Joe - Bath based blues and boogie beauty The Locust Recipe - Vintage prog rock from familiar faces Thompson's Lovechild - Homemade psychedelic blues The Edsel Furys - Garage/surf revival – see what all the fuzz is about… Plucky Purcell - Six gentlemen funksters dish dizzyingly dirty danceability
Come and support these great bands, and the future of the Club!
Date: Sunday 30th September 2012 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Time: 6pm viewings, auction starts 7.30pm Price: FREE
This is it - the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Club.
Come and say farewell, and put in a bid as the remaining bits of Club memorabilia are auctioned off by Don Foster MP. If you didn't already know it, in addition to his many other talents, Mr Foster is an accomplished auctioneer. Try and resist picking up a table and a couple of chairs for a knockdown price! Bid for the mirrorball and the clock that's ticked the time away at countless parties, competitions and events over the decades. Help to drink the barrels dry at last-chance prices. Eveything must go!
ALSO IN THE AUCTION: Prints by some of the country's best street artists, including the ones who are using the Club as a canvas to transform the streetscape of Widcombe... and one of the prints is a Banksy!
Viewing from 6:00pm
Auction at 7:30pm
And then party on until the beer is gone!
Members can pick up their Loyalty Card for which will entitle them to a 10% discount on purchases on match days at Twerton Park - and other special deals.
WIDCOMBE SWITCH-ON
Bath's most eccentric seasonal event!
Date: Thursday 29th November 2012 Venue: Widcombe Time: 6pm onwards
Meet Lady Margaret and the Natural Theatre fairies outside the White Hart & join a walkabout around widcombe's twinkling trees and trendy establishments!
CAROLS, MULLED WINE, JAZZ, LATE SHOPPING AND STUNTS
After that there will be an
XMAS XTRAVAGANZA
Venue: Naturals Studio Time: 7.30pm (show starts 8pm) Price: £3 on the door
Featuring:
BATH CAMERATA
Superb singing in the classic manner - Christmas concert preview
BILL SMARME
Sings "Santa Claus is living in Twerton" & other favourites
NEW OLD FRIENDS
Silly songs from the Naturals' favourite sketch duo
Venue: St Matthew's Church Time: 7.30pm Price: £15
Those of you lucky enough to attend the Xmas Xtravaganza cabaret after the Switch-on on 29th November will know just what an incredible sound Bath Camerata can make with just 11 singers.
Imagine then what all 24 singers will sound like in their concert this Saturday 22nd December at 7.30pm in St Matthew's Church!
The concert will include a range of Christmas music from the traditional to the very recent with delightful arrangements, mostly a capella and a guest appearance from the wonderful St Matthew's organ.
As usual, Bath Camerata will provide a mixture of high culture and Christmas fun, together with mulled wine and home-made mince pies during the interval.
Tickets are £15 and are available through the Bath Camerata website www.bathcamerata.org.uk or from the Bath Box Office 01225 463362.
Dates: 5th - 9th March 2013 Venue: Theatre Royal Time: 7.30pm Price: £12.00 - £29.50
Having been rehearsed in Widcombe (at St Matthews), the latest BODS production shows at Bath's Theatre Royal from 5th to 9th March, with matinees on Wednesday and Saturday.
Bath Comedy Festival springs to life over Easter this year in many venues across town, but here in Widcombe there will be no less than ten shows at the Ring O Bells, many of which will be going on to do a whole run during Edinburgh Fringe as well as national tours. See them here first, in the intimate environment of the Ring's upstairs venue!
Details of all the Ring O Bells shows are below. For full festival information visit www.bathcomedy.com
Manos Kanellos - Greekonomics
Date: Saturday 30th March, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 4.45pm for 5pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £6 / £5 concs (see below *)
A hilarious and personal look at the Greek crisis by UK-based, Greek stand-up comedian Manos Kanellos.
"His anecdotes are full of smart, subtle humour and witty punchlines" - The Skinny
"He is very good" - The Scotsman
"See Manos, laugh and learn something along the way" - Three Weeks
Date: Saturday 30th March, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 7.45pm for 8pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
"The Abbott & Costello of the sock world" (Time Out), stars of stage, screen & YouTube bring you a new show of songs, sketches, socks and violence with a Sci Fi theme.
"Superbly written, crafted and performed show" ****½ The Punch (Australia) 2012
"Had every single audience member... laughing until they cried." ***** Edinburgh Evening News Aug 2012
Date: Saturday 30th March, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 9.15pm for 9.30pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
Channeller of Spirits, amateur anthropologist, revealer of mysteries and collector of magical esoterica...the man who has taken wearing black and annoying indigenous tribes to new levels has embarked on his 2013 lecture tour!
Ancient curses, Egyptian Gods and actual historical evidence of vampires! Experience his mysterious world!
"I thought my world was mysterious but this f***er knocks me into a cocked hat!" - Arthur C. Clarke
"Who keeps telling this t***er where we live?" - Wetenki Tribe. 'Somewhere in Siberia.'
Warning! This lecture contains the Mongolian death worm!!!!!
Presented in association with 'The Comedians Theatre Company'
Written and performed by Mike Hayley. A veteran of the alternative stand-up circuit throughout the nineties, Mike has worked with the likes of Steve Coogan, Doon Mackichan and Alan Francis (with whom he wrote the hit play 'Jeffrey Dahmer is Unwell'). He is a much loved, regular member of the Comedians Theatre Company, appearing in 'Breaker Morant' and 'Cul-de-Sac' by Matthew Osborne. TV credits include appearances in 'Spaced' and 'People Like Us' and voice work includes 'Scary Robot' in 'Little Robots' and 'Colonel White/ Voice of the Mysterons' in Gerry Anderson's 'New Captain Scarlet.'
Date: Monday 1st April, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 5.45pm for 6pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
From Catwoman to Samantha Fox Strip Poker via Frenchie's Slumber Party and Hattie Jacques Bed Bath: the crushes, fantasies and desires of a geeky 80s/90s childhood are explored in this expanded and revised confessional show by Chippenham's cult storyteller.
As heard on Radio 4 and seen on Russell Howard's Good News.
"He is an inspired storyteller and his words are full of fire and beauty... He's a sort of urban warrior on behalf of all those who don't fit in" - The Scotsman "This is punk rock this is how it should be" - Mark Thomas "Genius" - Russell Howard
Date: Monday 1st April, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 7.15pm for 7.30pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
No chewing up straight at the back. I hope you brought enough bell for everyone. It's your own gum you're wasting.
These and other teaching clichés will be entirely absent from Neil's new show, despite its loose educational theme. Join him on this purposeless meander through Biology, English, Geography, History and Brian Blessed, as he endeavours to share the joke with the whole class. Oh bollocks...
"A clear ability to craft a gag" - Chortle "Fantastic punch lines" - Manchester City Life "Creamed potato" - The Scotsman
Date: Monday 1st April, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 8.45pm for 9pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
After twenty years on the circuit eating pies from petrol stations, there is no doubt Alan Francis has expanded. Now middle aged, with a Buddha belly but a full head of hair and no hair products in sight, the Award winning Scottish comedian rails against the disappointments of the modern world. Religion, tracksuits and politics nothing is left out!
As Alan expands, his masterful stage craft captures each caricature perfectly. Characters that we recognise both in ourselves and in those strange folk we see daily waiting at bus stops or in parliament making promises they can't keep. This is an incredibly uplifting show, full of good sense and very, very funny.
On television, Alan has been seen in Alistair McGowan's Big Impression (BBC), The 11 O'Clock Show (C4) and BBC2's hit cult comedy Psychoville. Alan has also had his own radio series Inside Alan Francis on Radio 4.
"Thought provoking, eloquent, entertaining...intelligent political stuff. Well worth your time" - The Scotsman 2012
"The descriptions are so evocative?you can picture them all" **** Chortle, 2012
"Hiliarious" - The List 2012
"Delivery is pitch perfect and the timing is spot on" ****The List
Date: Monday 1st April, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 10.15pm for 10.30pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £6 / £5 concs (see below *)
Join multi award-winning Matt Richardson as he comes to Bath with his new show 'Hometown Hero' ahead of taking it to the Edinburgh Festival and then on a three-month-long national tour.
This high energy & confessional hour covers our obsession with being liked, family & nosebleeds.
As seen on Channel 4, E4 & MTV and heard on BBC Radio 2. Matt won the Bath Comedy Festival New Act of the Year in 2011 and now he's back, all grown up with his own show.
"He's brash, slick and full of mildly laddish but self-deprecating stories, all delivered with an irresistible twinkle. Richardson may be full of self-confidence but he's got broad appeal to back up the cockiness." - The Guardian
Winner - Best New Show - Dave's Leicester Comedy Festival 2012
Date: Friday 5th April, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 6.15pm for 6.30pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
"The Abbott & Costello of the sock world" (Time Out), stars of stage, screen & YouTube bring you a new show of songs, sketches, socks and violence with a Sci Fi theme.
"Superbly written, crafted and performed show" ****½ The Punch (Australia) 2012
"Had every single audience member... laughing until they cried." ***** Edinburgh Evening News Aug 2012
Date: Friday 5th April, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 2hrs Price: £4 / £3 concs (see below *)
The Sitcom Trials is the comedy show where brand new sitcoms compete and the audience chooses the winner.
Five short sitcoms will be performed with scripts in hand, each one leading up to a cliffhanger that will leave the audience wanting to see more. In between each sitcom will be "Pitch Fest", where we ask the audience for their ideas for brand new sitcoms, and the best idea will win a prize.
Created, produced and presented by Kev F Sutherland, The Sitcom Trials began on stage in London and Bristol in 1999, and has enjoyed successful runs at the Edinburgh Fringe, national and international touring shows, and an 8 part TV series on ITV1. In 2008 the Sitcom Trials won the Fringe Report Award for Best Encourager of New Talent.
Performers who have appeared in The Sitcom Trials over the years include Miranda Hart, Neil Mullarkey, Richard Vranch, and the Comedy Store Players, Tony Robinson (Baldrick), Edinburgh Comedy Award nominees Cariad Lloyd, Waen Shepherd, and Laura Solon, James Holmes, Justin Lee Collins, , Steve McNeil & Sam Pamphilon, Sara Pascoe, Russell Howard, Mark Olver, Aaron Barschak, Emily Lloyd, Danny Robins, Dan Tetsell, The Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre, Lucy Porter, Nick Ewans, Louisa Gummer, Anne-Marie Draycott, Dan March, Rich Johnston, Wanda Opalinska, Gerard Foster, Charity Trimm, Dominic Frisby, McNeil and Pamphilon.
Have we found the new Miranda? The new Mighty Boosh? The new Mrs Browns Boys? Only you can decide!
The Sitcom Trials - the future of comedy is in your hands.
Date: Friday 5th April, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 10.15pm for 10.30pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
Despite the world's best efforts, Matt remains alive and well and read to talk about it.
Tales of planes, explosions, evacuations, and some very bad driving. Plus at least one visit to the hospital.
"An hour of classic stand up expertly delivered." **** Broadway Baby "Fast, fluent and very funny stand-up" **** Venue "A perfectly paced hour" **** The List
Fringe Review's No.1 stand-up recommendation (2012)
Date: Wednesday 5th June, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £6 concs (see below *)
SOLD OUT
The award-winning German stand-up comedian Christian Schulte-Loh brings his hit Edinburgh show to Bath for his Fringe debut.
Christian is an international stand-up act and regularly performs at the biggest clubs in the UK, Germany and all over Europe.
"Very funny" **** Broadway Baby "Has the hilarity factor" **** Cream of the Fringe "The gags have an astonishing freshness and power...one of the most subversive acts ever!" - Spectator
Date: Tuesday 1st October, 2013 Venue: Raves From The Grave, Widcombe Parade Time: 7pm Price: FREE (Limited to 30)
With guitar playing that has "shades of Bert Jansch and Martin Simpson" and a love of the narrative traditions of the British Isles, Tim wins fans wherever his travels take him with his sensitive and honest arrangements. Since 2010 Tim has been building his identity as "one of the new generation of musicians who are breathing new life into the folk songs of Britain" (Loughton Folk Club) and has performed with some of the best young folk performers on the circuit.
"Ali George is one of Bath's finest troubadours. Whether solo, as a duo, or surrounded by musicians, Ali's music and songs cut through and grab your attention. Ali's shows are entertaining, enthralling, and uplifting. We expect great things from this man!" SCHTUUM 2012
Date: Wednesday 2nd October, 2013 Venue: Raves From The Grave, Widcombe Parade Time: 7pm Price: £6 (Limited to 30)
At 26, Sam Brookes is a seasoned veteran of the live music circuit, his songs are beautifully crafted stories about familiar subjects that captivate the listener. Musically, his immaculate phrasing and beautifully modulated delivery echoes John Martyn and Tim Buckley.
His self titled release brought him recognition through high profile support slots with Joan Armatrading, Ray Davies and Newton Faulkner; this combined with an entrepreneurial spirit and a close kinship with other musicians such as Lucy Rose, Pete Roe and Emily & The Woods has allowed his live and recorded sound to evolve in to a powerful and provocative body of work. Brookes' latest single will be released in October followed by his second album in the Spring.
"Musically, he excels at propulsive, narratively rich folk, delivered in a soaring, clear-as-a-bell singing voice that makes every word of his evocative, detailed lyrics count." Sunday Times
Date: Thursday 3rd October, 2013 Venue: Upstairs @ Ring O Bells Time: 7pm Price: £10 per team (Limited to 12 teams of 4)
Was Elvis Welsh? What's the link between Stravinsky and Status Quo? What goes into Marilyn Manson's back stage rider?
John Harris has been writing and shouting about music since 1989 and is the author of four books, including the acclaimed history of Britpop, The Last Party and the equally praised Hail Hail Rock and Roll. He can be heard on Radio 4, be seen on BBC 2's The Review Show and read in The Guardian and Mojo Magazine.
Come with a bunch of friends (teams of four) and re-live five decades of music, lunacy and magic in a great night out with this, the ultimate, spectacular interactive audio / visual music quiz which will also feature the 'Rock Foundation Course' - a quickfire whip around the history of Rock and Roll.
1st prize - £80 Raves From The Grave vouchers / 2nd prize - £40 Raves From The Grave vouchers / 3rd prize - An assortment of classy 80's LPs.
This event is expected to sell-out quickly so please contact the shop to reserve your table for your team.
Date: Friday 4th October, 2013 Venue: Upstairs @ Ring O Bells Time: 7pm Price: £5 (Limited to 65)
Last Shop Standing the film is inspired by the book of the same name by Graham Jones takes you behind the counter to discover why nearly 2000 record shops have already disappeared across the UK. The film charts the rapid rise of record shops in the 1960s / 70s and 80s, the influence of the chart, the underhand deals, the demise of vinyl and rise of the CD as well as new technologies.
Where did it all go wrong? Why were 3 shops a week closing? Will we be left with no record shops with the continuing rise of downloading?
Hear from over 20 record shop owners and music industry leaders as well as musicians including Paul Weller, Johnny Marr, Norman Cook, Billy Bragg, Nerina Pallot, Richard Hawley and Clint Boon as they all tell us how the shops became and still are a part of their own musical education, a place to cherish and discover new bands and new music.
The evening will be hosted by the author Graham Jones who will also be hosting a Q&A session after the screening.
By invitation of Graham himself local band Port Erin will showcase a 30 mins set of their new material from there latest album 'Wheel Inside A Wheel' which was recorded at Real World Studios and has seen airplay and praise on BBC 6 Music. For fans of Talkings Heads, XTC and Can.
Also featuring The Wind-up Merchant - Nick Steel DJs with twin vintage HMV wind-up gramophones and a selection of 1920s - 1950s jazz, swing, dance and rock n roll on 78rpm shellac discs.
This event is expected to sell-out very quickly. Please call the store to book your tickets.
Date: Saturday 5th October, 2013 Venue: Raves From The Grave, Widcombe Parade Time: 3pm Price: FREE
Pedestrian Gate are an upcoming young band from Bath. Their young age gives them an exciting new perception of music inspired by many sources.
Seen busking around the City and spending their earning's in-store we're very happy to have these gents in-store.
Alice Maria Sparey
Live in-store
Date: Saturday 5th October, 2013 Venue: Raves From The Grave, Widcombe Parade Time: 5pm Price: FREE
Alice Maria Sparey is a vintage blues and soul singer.
Just back from performing at Boomtown Festival, another one of our City's fine buskers and a fine way to finish off Saturday's in-store sessions.
Nick Harper
with special guests Shelleyan Orphan
Date: Sunday 6th October, 2013 Venue: Upstairs @ Ring O Bells Time: 7pm Price: £10 (Limited to 65)
Son of the legendary UK singer-songwriter Roy Harper, Nick was born in London and raised in Wiltshire. Having played the guitar from the age of 10 and surrounded by the likes of Keith Moon, Jimmy Page, Robert Plant and Dave Gilmour as he grew up, it was no surprise when Nick made his recording debut on his father's Whatever Happened to Jugula? in 1985.
A busy 2013 sees Nick on a major UK solo tour in support of his 8th studio album 'Riven'. An epic recording with legendary producer Tchad Blake at the helm. Nick has also found time to play on new recordings with Lana Del Rey, Newton Faulkner and Steven Wilson.
"If imagination, energy and bags of talent were the only factors in making a successful pop career, few would deny that Squeeze man Glenn Tilbrook has backed a winner in Nick Harper…Splendid stuff" - MOJO magazine
Nick will be signing copies of his new album on the evening.
Shelleyan Orphan (Caroline Crawley, Jem Tayle) emerged in the 80s/90s as an eclectic duo who released albums worldwide to considerable success. Now signed to One Little Indian they released 'We Have Everything We Need' once more to great acclaim. Be sure to catch them for this rare acoustic performance.
This event is expected to sell-out very quickly. Please call the store to book your tickets.
Date: Thursday 24th October, 2013 Venue: Bath Cricket Club Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 2.5hrs Price: £14 / £12 concs (see below *)
Yes, Bonbon Cabaret is back with a scintillating array of talent in a variety show format in Bath's newest intimate venue, the recently renovated Bath Cricket Club.
Nice Mr Bonbon (he's been on an anger management course) will host a splendiferous line-up of quality acts including comedy, music and the ineffable Widcombe Players. Plus of course the unmissable quality raffle, comfy seats, posh toilets and gorgeous bar staff.
Starring:
The Hot Potato Syncopators - the funniest, jazziest and best dressed comedy band in the Empire! Three eccentric English gentlemen present a rip-roaring revue of 1930s jazz presented with phenomenal musicianship, visual gags and boundless energy. These original, hilarious and utterly unique musical maestros will transport you to a bygone era with charming songs, beautiful melodies and hot swinging jazz played on ukuleles, tea chest bass and musical saw. Absolutely top hole entertainment!
Gary Colman - "Highly inventive and very funny" - Frank Skinner
Dave Id - One half of the Splott Brothers brings his unique brand of magical silliness.
A Bath Comedy Festival/Natural Theatre Company fundraising event for Widcombe Rising.
A show for grown-ups, but feel free to bring grandma.
Jonathan Larson's iconic show charts a year in the lives of a group of young artists and musicians struggling to create under the spectre of HIV and AIDS in New York's Lower East Side.
This modern day love story is a rush of emotional extremes: rock anthems and love ballads sit side by side in an epic score that transcends the decades and will have you enthralled.
Celebrating 20 years since it was first produced, the award winning Bath Operatic and Dramatic Society (BODS) are delighted to bring this sexy, sassy and vibrant show to The Mission.
Contains adult themes of sexuality and love, 12+ is recommended.
Date: Friday 15th November, 2013 Venue: Bath Cricket Club Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 2.5hrs Price: £14 / £12 concs (see below *)
After headlining the opening night of Bath Comedy Festival two years running, Mik Artistik and the boys return for a full show, with support from local favourites The BelleFleurs.
Mik Artistik's Ego Trip - A captivating spell woven from comedy, song, poetry, story telling, rock music, folk and funk...with moments of unutterable human beauty thrown in.
The Belle Fleurs - a Bath based trio who take songs from pop, metal, rock and punk...and "fleurt" with them...close harmonies, Andrews Sisters style, brought up to date with modern songs and many comic twists.
Date: Friday 29th November 2013 Venue: Widcombe Time: 6pm for 6.15pm Price: FREE
Switch-on ceremony with much cheering, outside the White Hart
Lady Margaret and the Natural Theatre invite you to wander willy-nilly amongst the seasonally decked hostelries and participating businesses in Widcombe's very special high street. Late shopping, carols, mulled wine, jazz, jolly japes and of course, all those twinkling Christmas trees.
It's not Christmas in Widcombe without the Widcombe Switch-on! (yes, we know it's still November, but Lady M is going to the West Indies for the duration).
Followed by not one but two exciting Widcombe events for your further delectation…see below...
The Sitcom Trials
Date: Friday 29th November, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 2hrs Price: £4 / £3 concs (see below *)
Back by popular demand after this year's sell-out show at Bath Comedy Festival, The Sitcom Trials is the comedy show where brand new sitcoms compete and the audience chooses the winner.
Five short sitcoms will be performed with scripts in hand, each one leading up to a cliffhanger that will leave the audience wanting to see more. In between, the audience supply their ideas for brand new sitcoms in a "Pitch Fest".
Since 1999 The Sitcom Trials has enjoyed successful runs at Edinburgh Fringe, national and international touring shows, and an 8 part TV series on ITV1. Past performers include Miranda Hart, Richard Vranch and the Comedy Store Players, Tony Robinson (Baldrick), Cariad Lloyd, Sara Pascoe, Russell Howard, The Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre, Lucy Porter, McNeil and Pamphilon.and many more!
Have we found the new Miranda? The new Mighty Boosh? The new Mrs Browns Boys? Only you can decide - the future of comedy is in your hands!
Date: Friday 29th November, 2013 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 2.5hrs Price: £12 / £10 concs (see below *)
Join Lady Margaret and her personal medical advisors as she welcomes some special guests to join her on her chaise-longue (or is it a casting couch?) after her exhausting duties at the Widcombe Switch-on.
Acts, chats, beautiful singing and seasonal bar (wot, more mulled wine? Shurely not…)
Family friendly entertainment.
Starring Minor Works Unit - a bit folky, a bit funky, they take elements of rock, folk, reggae and ska and weave them into something unique.
Last year's post-illumination cabaret was a delight and an instant sell-out, so shop now for Christmas!
* Concessions available for NATs members (1 per member), NUS and unwaged only.
Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre - Christmas Special
Date: Friday 6th December, 2013 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
"The Abbott & Costello of the sock world" (Time Out), stars of stage, screen & YouTube bring you a special Christmas show of songs, sketches, socks and violence.
"The unparalleled pinnacle of comedy puppetry...a comedy experience so intense you can run out of breath. Pure joy." ***** Venue (April 2013)
"Some of the finest-written and performed [comedy] on the Fringe." **** Edinburgh Spotlight (Aug 2013)
"Dynamic and delightful, this is not a show to be missed. **** Broadway Baby (Aug 2013)
Date: Thursday 30th January, 2014 Venue: Royal Oak, Widcombe Doors: 7.00pm food, 8pm show Duration: 2hrs Price: £7.50 including sausage & mash supper
New compere: Gary Colman
Acts: Jonny Kats, Nimi Kesh, Stephanie Laing, Nick Page
Booking: Tickets available at the pub or call 01225 335220
Christian Schulte-Loh - Attack Of The 50ft German Comedian
Date: Thursday 27th February, 2014 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £9 / £7 concs (see below *)
The eagerly awaited return of award-winning German stand-up comedian Christian Schulte-Loh who brings his latest hit Edinburgh show to Bath.
Christian is a highly skilled international stand-up act and regularly performs at the biggest clubs in the UK, Germany and all over Europe.
Catch him here while you can!
"Very funny" **** Broadway Baby "Has the hilarity factor" **** Cream of the Fringe "The gags have an astonishing freshness and power...one of the most subversive acts ever!" - Spectator
Festival Opening Night Gala - starring Nick Harper, James Alderson, Tina Turner Tea Lady, Arthur Smith
Date: Friday 28th March, 2014 Venue: Bath Cricket Club Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 2.5hrs Price: £15 / £12 concs (see below *)
A Fabulous Music and Comedy Cabaret to kick start Bath Comedy Festival with a host of top talent in our favourite venue!
James Alderson
Effervescent and exuberant, James draws on his life experiences as a 30-something with hilarious observations and a self-deprecating style, the crowd always laughing with him all the way.
Recent support for Jo Brand & as seen on Channel 4's 'Eye Spy' "Proper funny! Made me howl laughing." - Paul McCaffrey, BBC3
Tina Turner Tea Lady "Turbo- Charged" - The Evening Standard "Mrs Overall meets Beyonce: A definite Crowd Pleaser" - Beyond The Joke "Cheesy, camp and surprisingly refreshing" - Chortle
Arthur Smith
Comedian, broadcaster, ghost walker and famously grumpy old man, Arthur is now a Patron of Bath Comedy Festival.
He might be persuaded to sing a Leonard Cohen song, unless someone outbids the current offer in order to stop him...
Nick Harper
Son of legendary UK singer-songwriter Roy Harper, Nick grew up surrounded by the likes of Keith Moon, Jimmy Page, Robert Plant and Dave Gilmour, and it was no surprise when he began touring himself.
A soulful voice, passionate, wild guitar playing and a charmingly caustic wit provide for a hugely entertaining show. His unique mixture of virtuosity, boyish charm, showmanship and sheer bravado has been thrilling audiences for years, and has gained him much praise for both his own compositions, and the well-loved covers he makes his own, from Presley to Python, Zappa to Zeppelin.
"Harper has so much musicianship in him that it just leaks out all over the place" - The Times "Prepare to be captivated by a colossal talent" ***** - Herald "Nick is the closest thing we've got to Lewis Carroll. His songs are the musical equivalent ofthe Looking Glass, peer through and you find a fantastical, magical world. Not always sugar sweet but forever different" - Maverick
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.32
* Concessions: NUS/unwaged or Friends of the Festival only, ID required on door
Saturday 29th March, 2014
Arthur Smith - The Evil Ghost of Alexandra Park
Date: Saturday 29th March, 2014 Venue: Alexandra Park Doors: TBC Price: TBC
There is not an evil ghost in Alexandra Park, there are several.
Festival legend Arthur Smith tells a tale of lust, murder, redemption and sherbert.
Anyone wearing odd socks gets a prize.
Hardeep Singh Kohli - Hardeep Is Your Love?
Date: Saturday 29th March, 2014 Venue: Bath Cricket Club Doors: 6pm for 6.30pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £12 / £10 concs (see below *)
Following a limited run at the 2013 Edinburgh Fringe, the comedian, broadcaster, journalist, and chef takes his hilarious stand up show on the road this Spring.
In addition to being a regular voice on BBC Radio 4, Hardeep has also been seen on television shows ranging from Question Time & This Week to The One Show & Celebrity Masterchef.
Join Hardeep as he offers his take on life, love and finding romance in middle age.
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.21
* Concessions: NUS/unwaged or Friends of the Festival only, ID required on door
Barry Cryer & Ronnie Golden
Date: Saturday 29th March, 2014 Venue: Bath Cricket Club Doors: 8pm for 8.30pm show Duration: 2hrs with interval Price: £14 / £12 concs (see below *)
Expect comedy songs and gags galore from this well loved double act, here once again to prove they're still alive and old's cool...
Barry has, rightfully, garnered a healthy respect for his legendary comedy writing: Morecombe & Wise, Tommy Cooper, Kenny Everett, Bob Hope and Jack Benny being a mere handful of household names who've profited from his fecund pen.
As a working standup he still continues to travel the country performing solo shows and touring a live version of Radio 4's comedy flagship of 42 years(!) "I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue"
Under his real name Tony De Meur, Ronnie was lead singer/guitarist/songwriter for seminal cult rock band Fabulous Poodles who achieved a degree of fame and notoriety in The States resulting in them outselling both The Clash and The Jam over there back in the late 70s. He has since carved several careers for himself as (Oscar nominated!) songwriter, musician and standup.
Their two hour live show features Barry's formidable collection of one-liners and tall stories alongside Ronnie's amazingly versatile musicianship and awesome array of musical impressions.
Their comic songs take in the unlikeliest of themes - assisted suicide, mobile phone frustrations, freedom passes and...John Prescott!
"This pair are two of the best at what they do, possibly because they're the only ones who do what they do" - The Mirror
"Two of comedy's most fabled masters" - Festival Times
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £0.97
Matt Price - Turkeygate, Tinky Winky & The Turkish Mafia
Date: Sunday 30th March, 2014 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 6.30pm for 7pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
One of the word-of-mouth hits at Edinburgh Fringe last year, Matt wowed audiences with a story that is so daft, you just couldn't make it up.
This is a true story of a six week trip of a life time to Turkey, that all went horribly wrong. It was life changing, but not in the way that anyone could have imagined.
It features fake Ralph Lauren polo shirts, holiday reps, the Turkish Mafia, Jason Manford's brother, the bloke who played Tinky Winky (yes, the Teletubbies), the noble art of self-defence with everyday household objects, and of course, your guide through all the madness, Matt Price.
This is standup storytelling at it's very best, with the occasional slide and video clip.
"Price is a terrific comedian and a wonderful storyteller." **** Kate Copstick, The Scotsman
"Price's storytelling skills are superb." - Chortle
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.07
* Concessions: NUS/unwaged or Friends of the Festival only, ID required on door
Martin Mor - How Do You Like Your Blue-eyed Boy Mister Death?
Date: Sunday 30th March, 2014 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 8.30pm for 9pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
In February 2013 Martin's car crashed at high speed on the motorway.
Martin is lucky to be alive.
How would you react to being given a second chance?
Martin reacted by doing what he does best...
By making jokes about it.
A life affirming show about death.
"A comedy institution" - Guardian
"If your aim is to sit for an hour and laugh for as much as possible, you can't go far wrong with Martin Mor." - Steve Bennet, Chortle
"A terrifically funny and amiable man, and this comes across at an unrelenting pace." - Skinny
"Mor's banter is world class" - Scotsman
"Absolutely brilliant ... hilarious at every turn" - Edinburgh Festivals Magazine
"Martin is the act that has influenced me the most, the UK comedy circuit would not be the same without him." - Frankie Boyle
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.07
* Concessions: NUS/unwaged or Friends of the Festival only, ID required on door
The Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre - ...And So Am I
Date: Monday 31st March, 2014 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 8.30pm for 9pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
Earth's funniest footwear and the stars of stage, screen & Youtube return with a brand new show of songs, sketches, socks and violence on topics far and wide.
The Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre are "The Abbott & Costello of the sock world" (Time Out) or "Filthy Wee Tykes" (The Scotsman). They've been called "the unparalleled pinnacle of comedy puppetry" (***** Venue magazine 2013), and now you'll see why.
After 6 sellout years at the Edinburgh Fringe and international tours from Aberdeen to Adelaide (Pick Of The Fringe 2012), Manchester to Malta, Belfast to Birmingham and all points inbetween, the Socks are bringing their new show, and the best of their favourite stuff, to Bath.
"Some of the finest-written and performed [comedy] on the Fringe." **** Edinburgh Spotlight (Aug 2013)
"Dynamic and delightful, this is not a show to be missed. **** Broadway Baby (Aug 2013)
"Superbly written, crafted and performed show" ****½ The Punch (Australia) 2012
"Had every single audience member... laughing until they cried." ***** Edinburgh Evening News Aug 2012
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.07
* Concessions: NUS/unwaged or Friends of the Festival only, ID required on door
John Moloney
Date: Tuesday 1st April, 2014 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 8.30pm for 9pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
A professional, multi award-winning comedian for over twenty years, John headlines all the major comedy clubs, festivals and theatres around the world, including the prestigious London Comedy Store.
He won 'Best Live Performer' at The London Comedy Festival twice, was nominated for 'Best Live Stand-Up' at The British Comedy Awards and included in Channel 4's 'World Top 100 Stand-Ups'.
"A wondrous array of classy gags. Comedy scholars, plus folk needing a right good laugh, can choose from a wide range of quality Moloney originals. Take your pick from droll one-liners, coruscating bits of political satire, absurdist observations, gleeful schoolboy puns and observant re-interpretations of everyday phenomena. In addition, they're all delivered with a measured dryness and quiet understatement, too. Masterly" - The Herald
"He looks every bit the professional. He is. He treats the audience with compassion, tact and intelligence in a performance that has strolling one-liners and hilarious stories" - The Stage
TV Credits: Just For Laughs Roadshow, Never Mind The Buzzcocks, They Think It's All Over, The Comedy Store, Live at Jongleurs, The Wright Stuff, Good News Week, Grumpy Old Men and numerous others.
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.07
* Concessions: NUS/unwaged or Friends of the Festival only, ID required on door
Wednesday 2nd April, 2014
Harriet Kemsley + support
Date: Wednesday 2nd April, 2014 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 6.30pm for 7pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £5
The quirky stand up and winner of Bath New Act of The Year 2012 and many other competitions, blends an innocent edge with razor sharp gags in her debut show.
"A very funny new stand up" - Time Out
"Excellent Writing" - Chortle
"A hilarious combination of bashful and weird." - Three Weeks
"A quirky, very funny new stand up..her style is refreshingly original and she's a seriously good writer." - Time Out
Rhod Gilbert's Top Ten Comics to See (Mail on Sunday)
Pick of the Top Five Up and Coming Funny Females (The Sun)
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £0.97
Mike Wozniak - Take The Hit
Date: Wednesday 2nd April, 2014 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 8.30pm for 9pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
His wife's parents have moved in. Permanently. Not so much a show as a person getting out of the house. But fear not, Wozniak has more show business in his moustache than he does in his little finger. Where do you keep yours? Let's find out if we get around to it.
"Just could be the new comedy hero" - Time Out wrote that ages ago.
"Completely hilarious, highly recommended" - 3 News - they are real and based in New Zealand.
Wozniak has a total of 43 stars from an undisclosed number of reviews.
Best Show Nominee, Fosters Comedy Awards 2013
As seen on Channel 4's Man Down
"One of the top comedians to look forward to in 2014" - Sunday Times
***** The Daily Telegraph
**** Chortle
"Conceptual Triumph" **** The List
**** The Sunday Times
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.07
* Concessions: NUS/unwaged or Friends of the Festival only, ID required on door
Thursday 3rd April, 2014
Neil McFarlane Tells It Like It Isn't
Date: Thursday 3rd April, 2014 Venue: The Assembly Inn Doors: 8.30pm for 9pm show Duration: 1hr Price: Free entry (donation on exit)
Neil McFarlane returns triumphantly to semi-consciousness on April the 3rd.
Last year at Bath Comedy Festival he painted himself into a needlessly offensive corner with an excessively constraining premise, so this year his show is named as loosely as possible in order to allow him to say pretty much any old shit that comes into his head - and hopefully make other people in the room laugh out of theirs.
The one thing which is guaranteed is that it won't all be true. But come along, have a gin, sit down and shut up.
A Nick Steel presentation.
Friday 4th April, 2014
The Real MacGuffins
Date: Friday 4th April, 2014 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 5.30pm for 6pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
Following highly acclaimed, sell-out appearances at Edinburgh, Brighton and Leicester Comedy Festivals the Real MacGuffins return to Bath with another hour-long fun-packed fiesta-thon of the MacGuffins' material.
After comic turns in 'The Bleak Old Shop of Stuff' (BBC2), 'Miranda' (BBC1), 'Lee Nelson's Well Funny People' (BBC3) and the BAFTA award-winning 'Spy' (SKY1) the MacGuffins have also written for 'That Mitchell & Webb Sound' (BBC Radio 4).
Expect another joyous and "charmingly foolish" (Daily Telegraph) show as this dysfunctional sketch group teeter on the edge of chaos.
"Insanely witty writing" ***** Three Weeks
"Fast-paced & witty…performed with great verve & warmth" **** Arts Desk
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.07
* Concessions: NUS/unwaged or Friends of the Festival only, ID required on door
Manos Kanellos - Greekonomics 2
Date: Friday 4th April, 2014 Venue: The Assembly Inn Doors: 6.30pm for 7pm show Duration: 1hr Price: Free entry (donation on exit)
Greek born, UK based comedian Manos Kanellos presents a show about politics, money and mousaka! See it and save the world!
"Manos offers a hysterically funny view of the Greek crisis" - Brighton Lite
"His anecdotes are full of smart, subtle humour and his jokes delicate, textured with witty punchlines. Interesting and clearly very intelligent" - The Skinny
"He is very good. His humour extends to economics, etymology and cous-cous" - The Scotsman
"See Manos, laugh and learn something along the way" - Three Weeks
Date: Friday 4th April, 2014 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8 / £7 concs (see below *)
A versatile, funny and hugely likeable performer, Silky has been a favourite on the comedy circuit for years.
He describes himself as a comedian, musician, writer and "all the other things people say they do when they don't really have to get up too early"
"A performer whose genuine charm captures his crowd. I urge you to go and see for yourself" ***** Three Weeks
"A very, very funny fella...just brilliant" - John Bishop
"Likeable, laidback Liverpudlian...a natural storyteller with an unforced warmth that unites the gathered group of strangers" - Chortle
"Not only is he funnier than me, but he is also better at the guitar." - Boo Hewerdine
"A f-ing genius! Hilariously funny and smart. 129 stars." - Caroline Rhea @carolinerhea
Here"s what those 129 stars look like.
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Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.07
* Concessions: NUS/unwaged or Friends of the Festival only, ID required on door
An Evening With Mervyn Stutter
Date: Friday 4th April, 2014 Venue: Bath Cricket Club Doors: 7pm for 8pm show Duration: 2hrs with interval Price: £10 / £9 concs (see below *)
Satirical songwriter, comedian, actor and scriptwriter, Mervyn has been making people laugh in comedy clubs, cabaret theatre, folk clubs, radio and TV for 40 years. This year he also celebrates his 28th year at Edinburgh Fringe where his 'Pick of the Fringe' show has become a real institution.
His topical songs have featured on BBC Radio shows 'It's Been A Bad Week' with Punt and Dennis (Radio 2), 'After Midnight' (Radio 5), 'Hayes On Sunday' (Radio 2) and BBC TV's first ever daytime show 'Open Air'.
He wrote and starred in hit BBC comedy series 'Love 40 - New Balls Please' (Radio 2) "The best radio comedy programme I've heard for years" - The Observer, and the much repeated 'Getting Nowhere Fast' (Radio 4) "Written by the extremely funny Mervyn Stutter, this comedy series has a laugh every other line. Expect to see this on TV soon!" - Radio Times
His live show is irreverent, funny, affectionate, clever but clean - chats, jokes, pithy observations and lots of clever comedy songs on guitar form a joyous 90 minute show of life affirming fun.
"Celebrating the trivial and attacking the absurd he gives us a seriously funny show" - The Scotsman
"Stutter is a sharp as any, as funny as any and more informed than most" - The Times
"Hilarious songs" - The Observer
"He is brilliant - The Guardian
"The comedy voice of the Baby Boom Generation" - Daily Telegraph
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.14
* Concessions: NUS/unwaged or Friends of the Festival only, ID required on door
Emily Rose - Synagogue Slut
Date: Friday 4th April, 2014 Venue: The Assembly Inn Doors: 8.30pm for 9pm show Duration: 1hr Price: Free entry (donation on exit)
Between bitching about synagogues and entertaining you with witty stories and songs, the "likeable and out of the ordinary" (Scotsman) Emily proves to be "utterly adorable from start to finish" (ThreeWeeks).
Honoured to be featuring the fantastic Tash Bartlett with her special synagogue material.
Being Jewish is not required, in fact is positively discorouged.
Saturday 5th April, 2014
Silky Explains Parents to Children
Date: Saturday 5th April, 2014 Venue: Bath Cricket Club Doors: 1pm for 1.30pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £5
They're noisy, messy, embarassing, pains in the bum, and to top it all, they're emotionally clumsy (if not out-and-out needy).
It's about time someone told grown-ups to behave themselves. Who better than kids? A big kid. Silky.
He sounds like a gerbil, looks like a boiled egg and has been making people laugh since before your Mum and Dad were interested in beer/wine/tidying things up.
Contains songs (not rubbish) and talking down to adults. Bring one, if you can find one. No magic, no heartwarming life lessons. No processed sugar, but no tree-hugging hippy druid crap, either.
"Your shirt looks like sick" - Eve, aged 6, Glasgow
"You're silly. Go back to your Mancave and sit quietly" - Naomi aged 7, Chesterfield.
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £0.97
Henry Blofeld - TMS and All That
Date: Saturday 5th April, 2014 Venue: Bath Cricket Club Doors: 3.30pm for 4pm show Duration: 1hr 20mins + book signing Price: £14
No one's views are more prickly and earth-shatteringly funny. The pompous, the politically correct, the prancing popinjays on every platform of life, are kicked unceremoniously into touch. 'Elf an' Safety are shaken until the pips squeak.
The name-dropping starts in spades with Ian Fleming in Jamaica and The Master, Noel Coward. Dear old 'Don't panic, Captain Mainwaring', Clive Dunn was another of his friends. Then Lawrence Olivier and Alec Guinness get a mention. But perhaps the tour de force is a story he tells about the old family doctor, Dr Bennett. It's a guinea-a-minute and more than an hour and a half of uncomplicated fun and laughter, which makes everyone feel a great deal better.
By the end, the entire audience is both Shaken and Stirred and positively itching for more.
"Blowers" is one of the best known and best loved sports journalists of all time. With his trademark bow-tie, his unmistakably fruity tones and his delightfully idiosyncratic observations, both on and off the cricket field, Blowers has become a national institution.
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.28
New Act Competition - Grand Final
Date: Saturday 5th April, 2014 Venue: Bath Cricket Club Doors: 6.30pm for 7.30pm show Price: £8.50
The Bath Comedy Festival New Act of the Year Competition sees 40 of the best up and coming comics in the UK compete in five heats.
The nine best acts from the competition heats battle it out in tonight's grand final, judged by a panel of comedy industry heavyweights and comedians, this year including Alan Nixon, Graham Smith, Jill Edwards & Geoff Whiting.
Previous finalists include Larry Dean, Rob Beckett, Joe Lycett, Matt Richardson, Mickey Sharma, Lindsay Sharman, Harriet Kemsley and James Alderson.
Competition organiser and tonight's compere is Geoff Whiting - with 16 years on the stand-up circuit, Geoff is an established comedian and popular compere with a wealth of experience in working at all the notable comedy clubs in Europe. He has supported Michael McIntyre, Harry Hill, Dara O'Briain, Omid Djalili, Lee Mack, Ross Noble, Rhod Gilbert, Milton Jones, Micky Flanagan, Noel Fielding and Lee Hurst. Geoff is also the driving force behind Mirth Control - the largest independant comedy booker in the UK, currently booking comedy shows into more than 80 venues nationwide.
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.09
Sunday 6th April, 2014
Bath Comedy Festival and Ralph Oswick present - The Red Wine Arts Trail
Date: Sunday 6th April, 2014 Venue: To be revealed Doors: 12.30pm for 1pm show Duration: 2hrs Price: £25
JUNGLE SURVIVOR TURNS CLIPPIE!
Yes, Our famous trail has gone red this year (saves faffing round with ice!) with an all new (and some old) magical mystery tour to end all magical mystery tours! And filling the boots of last year's guest conductor Arthur Smith is none other than the wonderful LORRAINE CHASE.
A fabulous almost-finale to the Comedy Festival featuring obscure venues (sadly not including Luton Airport), surprising interventions and a star-studded cast. Hop on the big red bus for a bumptious, boozy belter of an event that will leave you staggering (literally!)
Ms Chase is joined by renowned wine bore Godfrey Spittoon, played by former Natural Theatre supremo Ralph Oswick, on a journey encompassing places you might never dream of visiting and scenes you will never forget whilst enjoying fine wines and even a few kettle chips. Plus a grand raffle in aid of Widcombe Rising.
"Top me up with Campari, Godfrey darlin'"
This is the 7th Wine Arts Trail and is sure to sell out so book now.
NB: Grown-ups only. Doors open half an hour before the tour begins - please arrive early. Tour involves unavoidable stairs and steps and being harried for dawdling by Mr Spittoon (pronounced 'Spoon'). Please drink sensibly.
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.67
Bath Comedy Festival and Ralph Oswick present - The Red Wine Arts Trail
Date: Sunday 6th April, 2014 Venue: To be revealed Doors: 3pm for 3.30pm show Duration: 2hrs Price: £25
JUNGLE SURVIVOR TURNS CLIPPIE!
Yes, Our famous trail has gone red this year (saves faffing round with ice!) with an all new (and some old) magical mystery tour to end all magical mystery tours! And filling the boots of last year's guest conductor Arthur Smith is none other than the wonderful LORRAINE CHASE.
A fabulous almost-finale to the Comedy Festival featuring obscure venues (sadly not including Luton Airport), surprising interventions and a star-studded cast. Hop on the big red bus for a bumptious, boozy belter of an event that will leave you staggering (literally!)
Ms Chase is joined by renowned wine bore Godfrey Spittoon, played by former Natural Theatre supremo Ralph Oswick, on a journey encompassing places you might never dream of visiting and scenes you will never forget whilst enjoying fine wines and even a few kettle chips. Plus a grand raffle in aid of Widcombe Rising.
"Top me up with Campari, Godfrey darlin'"
This is the 7th Wine Arts Trail and is sure to sell out so book now.
NB: Grown-ups only. Doors open half an hour before the tour begins - please arrive early. Tour involves unavoidable stairs and steps and being harried for dawdling by Mr Spittoon (pronounced 'Spoon'). Please drink sensibly.
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.67
Festival Closing Night Gala - starring John Moloney, The BelleFleurs, Stephanie Laing, Nick Hall, Nick Page (MC)
Date: Sunday 6th April, 2014 Venue: Bath Cricket Club Doors: 7.30pm for 8pm show Duration: 2.5hrs Price: £15 / £12 concs (see below *)
A evening full of fantastic comedy and music to end the Festival on a high!
Starring:
John Moloney
A professional, multi award-winning comedian for over twenty years with numerous TV credits, John headlines major venues around the world. "A wondrous array of classy gags...Take your pick from droll one-liners, coruscating bits of political satire, absurdist observations, gleeful schoolboy puns and observant re-interpretations of everyday phenomena...delivered with a measured dryness and quiet understatement...Masterly" - The Herald
Nick Page
With a great story-telling style, Nick is always at one with his audience and highly engaging, without resorting to hackery and old jokes or being pointlessly sweary. "Rogueish...Bearlike and with a host of barely believable stories about life, love and brushes with the law" - The Guardian "The very best story teller on the comedy circuit" - Rhod Gilbert
Stephanie Laing
Goofy and peculiar, Stephanie's material is a mix of silliness, filth and unusual observations, underpinned by a disarming honesty which makes her seem charmingly vulnerable. "Truly commanded the crowd. Disgusting and delightful in equal measure. She is definitely one to watch." - Three Weeks "A great stand-up. Super smart in the fun way that always works magic" - Phil Kay
Nick Hall
Nick has been performing stand-up comedy since the start of 2013. His fast-paced, energetic, and hilarious style has already marked him out as one to watch. So You Think You're Funny Semi-Finalist 2013. As seen on BBC, BBC3 and BBC Radio 4. "Crackingly original" **** The List "Side splittingly funny" ***** ThreeWeeks "Mad cap energy" ***** British Comedy Guide
The BelleFleurs
Bath based trio who take songs from pop, metal, rock and punk...and "fleurt" with them...close harmonies, Andrews Sisters style, brought up to date with modern songs and many comic twists. "One of the highlights of the evening, glamorous , witty and polished entertainment" - So & So Club
Rose Bowl award winning Bath Operatic and Dramatic Society, who rehearse in Widcombe presents this fantastic musical, fizzing with excitement with memorable songs and a raunchy story.
One stormy night 3 bored divorced housewives, Alexandra, Jane and Sukie fantasise over the man of their dreams and in no time he appears in the form of the mysterious, charismatic Darryl Van Horne who wastes no time in seducing each of them in turn and moving them into his house.
Tristan Carter and Peter Blackwood returns as Director and Musical Director to take BODS' successful run of shows to new heights in this musical comedy based on the 1987 film from a novel by John Updike.
Please note this show contains adult themes and is unsuitable for children.
Bath Comedy Festival @ Bath Fringe
Sunday 25th May, 2014 - Bath Comedy Festival @ Bath Fringe!
Jeremy Hardy
Date: Sunday 25th May, 2014 Venue: Spiegeltent, Bath Recreation Ground Doors: 7.00pm for 8.00pm show Duration: 2hrs incl interval Price: £14 / £7 concs (see below *)
Jeremy Hardy has been a stand-up comic since 1984 and will be one until he dies or wins the lottery.
Jeremy is best known for his work on Radio 4, notably on News Quiz, I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue and Jeremy Hardy Speaks to the Nation.
In 2010, he published a book, My Family and Other Strangers, chronicling his desperate search for interesting ancestors.
"In an ideal world, Jeremy Hardy would be extremely famous, but an ideal world would leave him without most of his best material" - The Guardian
Date: Monday 2nd June, 2014 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 7.00pm for 8.00pm show Duration: 70 mins Price: £6.50 / £5 concs (see below *)
Deceit. Humour. Role Play. It's what keeps a marriage strong.
An astutely observed character portrait of a marriage in crisis, Barbara and Jeffrey is a fast, funny and frenetic one act play from writer, actress and stand-up Naomi Carter, a three-time winner of the Sitcom Trials.
Snobbish, overbearing Barbara, and her long-suffering sexually frustrated husband Jeffrey, should be having a nice middle-class evening out at the local committee meeting in the village hall - but for a number of increasingly hysterical reasons they find themselves unable to leave their tastefully furnished house, and they can't let anyone know they're in something of a tricky situation.
As the night draws in and tensions run high, husband and wife must confront their problems head on...if only they could bring themselves to look at each other.
Date: Tuesday 3rd June, 2014 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 7.00pm for 8.00pm show Duration: 70 mins Price: £6.50 / £5 concs (see below *)
Deceit. Humour. Role Play. It's what keeps a marriage strong.
An astutely observed character portrait of a marriage in crisis, Barbara and Jeffrey is a fast, funny and frenetic one act play from writer, actress and stand-up Naomi Carter, a three-time winner of the Sitcom Trials.
Snobbish, overbearing Barbara, and her long-suffering sexually frustrated husband Jeffrey, should be having a nice middle-class evening out at the local committee meeting in the village hall - but for a number of increasingly hysterical reasons they find themselves unable to leave their tastefully furnished house, and they can't let anyone know they're in something of a tricky situation.
As the night draws in and tensions run high, husband and wife must confront their problems head on...if only they could bring themselves to look at each other.
Date: Thursday 5th June, 2014 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 7.00pm for 8.00pm show Duration: 1hr + book signing Price: £12 / £10 concs (see below *)
Guy Pratt is a Grammy award winning bassist who has played bass live and on record with such megastars as Pink Floyd, David Gilmour, Roxy Music, Bryan Ferry, Robert Palmer, Gary Moore, Womack & Womack, Jimmy Page and David Coverdale...and worked as a favourite studio sideman for artists including Madonna, Michael Jackson, The Pretenders, Kirsty Macoll and Elton John.
In his one man show, Guy regales audiences with stories from behind, behind the scenes. His self-deprecating wit is irresistible and so are his rip-roaring anecdotes.
He will sell and sign his best selling book 'My Bass and Other Animals' (Orion) after his show.
"A natural raconteur with a droll turn of phrase" - The Guardian
"Bass players are ten a penny but a good wit is hard to find, so we hired him" - David Gilmour
"Limos, Lear jets and transit vans, it's all funny with Guy…well limos and Lear jets anyway" - Johnny Marr
A Nick Steel presentation in association with Mike Leigh Associates
Date: Friday 6th June, 2014 Venue: Natural Theatre Studio Doors: 7.00pm for 8.00pm show Duration: 2hrs+ Price: £12 / £10 concs (see below *)
Join Widcombe's world famous cultural attaché Lady Margaret and her personal medical advisors as she welcomes some very special guests to join her on her chaise-longue (or is it a casting couch?)
Music, wit and comedy…and several gorgeous floral frocks.
Guests include:
JAMES LAMBETH
JOHN SAMPSON
TINA TURNER TEA LADY
MIK ARTISTIK'S EGO TRIP
DR PHIL HAMMOND
The last Surgery was a big hit and packed to the rafters, so book no to avoid disappointment!
Note: Brown Paper Tickets online transaction fee: £1.21
* Concessions: NUS/unwaged or Friends of the Festival only, ID required on door
The Idle Playthings' Ctrl-Alt-Sketch & Tom Craine's Thoughts on Love
Date: Friday 11th July, 2014 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 7.30pm for 8.00pm show Duration: 2.5hrs incl intervals Price: £5
The Idle Playthings present Ctrl-Alt-Sketch, a musical sketch show. We browse the history of the internet from its inception to the present web of cats, porn and catty porn with one simple question: where did it all go wrong?
Bath based comedy troupe The Idle Playthings do it all - from stand up to sketches to improv. From humble beginnings sidelining in various Bath festivals, under the guidance of president Luke Mallison, ("a fast developing young force to be reckoned with" - Danny's Comedy Club 2013), they've hosted a range of cabaret nights, had a 3 year run in the Independent Bath Literature festival, performed a full Bath Fringe Festival sketch show and run charity comedy events for Oxjam Bath and Movember UK. Recently featured on BBC speech bubble, they also have a regular spot at Komedia and hosted a weekend of student comedy for Bath Comedy Festival.
Tom Craine - Thought's On Love
Tonight's headliner is the award-winning Bath born stand-up and one third of critically acclaimed sketch troupe Jigsaw.
"Wise, funny, lyrical" - Observer "Wonderful" - Time Out "Disgustingly talented" - The Guardian
Profits from tonights show will go to the charity Mentoring Plus - changing the lives of vulnerable children and young people in Bath and NE Somerset.
Date: Wednesday 23rd July, 2014 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 7.30pm for 8.00pm show Duration: 1hr Price: Free entry (voluntary donation on exit)
Clever late-night sketch comedy cramming your brain with nonsense.
How do pigeons feel when the foot finally drops off?
Is it really ‘frowned upon’ to have a hitman kill a tedious friend?!
Who will be crowned Socks-Off Wrestle-Off Champion 2014?
All these burning questions and more, tackled by a colourful line-up of characters in a string of unusual scenarios. Carter & Ollerton will lead you into seemingly every-day situations, whisk them into the surreal and fling you back out wondering if you’ll ever look at life in the same way again. You'll be a better, wiser, sexier, happier, stronger, more powerful and more imaginative person for it, and that's guaranteed or your money back.*
Finalists - Bath Comedy Festival New Act Competition 2014
Carter & Ollerton bring their unique, memorable style to a freshly formed sketch show.
So step inside their tumble dryer of ideas, grab onto something that’s heavy or bolted down… and enjoy.
Date: Wednesday 26th November, 2014 Venue: Ring O Bells Doors: 7.30pm for 8.00pm show Duration: 2hrs including interval Price: £10
A triumphant return to one of Bath Comedy's favourite rooms, newly refurbished and now with air conditioning!
Starring:
Neil McFarlane
Self confessed "posh Glaswegian" Neil entertains audiences across the British Isles and around the world, and has been a finalist in a number of competitions. "Really rather good" - The Times "Creamed potato." - The Scotsman
Stephanie Laing
Goofy and peculiar, Stephanie's material is a mix of silliness, filth and unusual observations, underpinned by a disarming honesty which makes her seem charmingly vulnerable.
Dave Williams
Dave is a top quality, experienced circuit comedian, whose crisp one-liners and surreal nonsense have earned him headline slots at some of the most prestigious comedy clubs both here and abroad.