Angels Of The North: Headline act on the main stage at York Pride on Knavesmire on Saturday
NORTH Yorkshire’s largest LGBT+ celebration and York’s biggest free one-day festival, York Pride 2025, takes to the streets for its biggest, boldest and most fabulous event yet on Saturday.
“We are so proud to stand together in love, solidarity and Pride,” says chair Greg Stephenson. “As we celebrate this weekend, we must also reflect. Around the world – and here in the UK – our trans and non-binary community is under increasing attack, facing rising hate, hostile attack, and systemic challenges.
“At York Pride, we stand proudly and unequivocally with our trans and non-binary siblings. You are loved, you are valued, and you are welcome here.
“Pride has always been a protest as well as a celebration. We march not just for ourselves, but for those who cannot. We raise our voices for those still silenced. And we will continue to champion inclusion, equality and visibility for all members of our LGBT+ family.”
In 2024, more than 17,500 people filled the city streets for a record-breaking York Pride, and once more the festival promises to be bold, inclusive and joyful in 2025, led off by the Pride Parade that will follow a new path through the streets with an updated starting point on Parliament Street at midday.
On Knavesmire, the festival’s main stage will be headlined by Angels Of The North (6pm) and on the bill too will be Ryan Petitjean (1.10pm), tribute act Pet Shop Boys, Actually (1.35pm), Marcus Collins (2pm), Eva Iglesias (2.30pm), York drag superstar Janice D (3.35pm), La Voix (4pm), West End queen Kerry Ellis (5.15pm), The Cheeky Girls (5.35pm) and plenty more. Find the full line-up at yorkpride.org.uk/line-up.
Look out too for the Cabaret Stage, featuring PJ Taylor, Emily Moran, Ferne Ando, Oliver James Perkins, Malin Fox, Queer Arts Rainbow Choir, The Drag Lord Victorious, Miss Kitty Lee, Coldhell, Liv Harper and 5.45pm headliners The Movement Project.
Knavesmire will play host to a multitude of main arena stalls and tents, including the York Pride Quiet Tent, City of York Council, the Diocese of Middlesbrough LGBT Outreach, York Mind, Amnesty International York, Christians At Pride In York, Sherlock Holmes’ Imaginarium, Barnardo’s North Fostering and Adoption and York St John University.
In a new addition for 2025, York Trans Pride will have a dedicated space to celebrate trans lives through visibility, community and empowerment, supported by Generate, York LGBT Forum, The Portal Bookshop, Know York LGBT and York Pride.
Queer Arts York will play host to the Queer Arts LGBT+ Community Arts Space hub, celebrating creativity, self-expression and community connection. Expect a joyful mix of arts and crafts activities, a participatory mural, interactive workshops and creative drop-ins and moments of performance, movement and expression.
The Pride day will conclude with an Official Pre-After Party with Charra Tea, from RuPaul UK Drag Race, from 7.30pm at Yates York and the Official AfterParty at Ziggy’s (bar and lounge from 7pm; downstairs from 10m to 4am).
York drag act Ginger Slice and York Mansion House duty manager Rio Sambrook demonstrating Georgian fan language in the Guildhall council chamber. Look out for their demonstration at York Pride
Among the festival highlights, Rio Sambrook, York Mansion House duty manager and chair of City of York Council’s staff LGBT+ network, will be giving a demonstration of Georgian fan language to drag performer Ginger Slice at the Georgian Festival stall between 1pm and 6pm.
“Fan language was a secret code of postures and motions for communicating by using a fan, central to Georgian ball culture, as a rebellion against the repression of young women and controlling of speech and lack of a voice,” says Rio, who will be dressed in Georgian inspired costume on Saturday.
“It was a time when young women’s voices were suppressed and they couldn’t speak freely, and it’s now had a strong resurgence in the LGBTQIA community and has a strong association with drag and Pride events.”
In the mid-20th century, gay people had their own secret language, spoken during a time of oppression. “Polari” was a way to communicate discreetly with each other when homosexuality was illegal – and later too when decriminalised but hostility remained widespread in society.
“Polari is an historic mix of language that was developed by sailors, who would have spoken the language at ports,” says Rio. “It was also used by Kenneth Williams [and Hugh Paddick] for the characters Julian and Sandy on the BBC radio show Round The Horne in the 1960s.
“Its use ended because of that, but when Princess Anne told photographers to “naff off” after falling off a horse, ‘naff’ was originally a Polari word.”
Ginger Slice chips in: “‘Drag’ originates as a Polari word too, standing for Dressed As A Girl.” Ginger, a South Yorkshire-born photographer and graphic designer, now settled in York, will be donning her 90s’ Girl Power finery at the weekend in her nod to Ginger Spice.
“There are different moves with the fan to indicate love,” says Ginger. “The full fan, spread out like a peacock, is saying ‘I’m available’. It all starts with eye contact and the fan language takes over.
“In a world obsessed with language, with so many words for everything, it’s fascinating when you take all the words out of it for sign language, because we sometimes have to try to communicate in a way that others won’t understand.”
Rio adds: “If you are trying to fix up a meeting, showing three points of the fan will indicate 3pm. If you hold the fan with the back showing, it means, ‘I never want to see you again’. A closed fan, placed against the chest, indicates you’re in love.”
Further symbols come into play too. “It could be the colour of the handkerchief you are wearing, or which back pocket you’re wearing it in,” says Ginger. “They are like the emojis of their time.”
The artwork for the 2025 York Festival of Ideas, making waves until June 13
A FESTIVAL full of bright ideas leads off Charles Hutchinson’s recommendations for cultural sustenance and enlightening entertainment.
Festival of the week: York Festival of Ideas, running until June 13
YORK Festival of Ideas 2025 explores the theme of Making Waves in more than 200 mostly free in-person and online events designed to educate, entertain and inspire.
Led by the University of York, the festival features world-class speakers, performances, exhibitions, tours, family-friendly activities and much more. Topics range from archaeology to art, history to health and politics to psychology. Browse the programme at yorkfestivalofideas.com.
New Adventures in Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell, on tour at York Theatre Royal. Picture: Johan Persson
Dance return of the week: New Adventures in Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell, York Theatre Royal, until Saturday, 7.30pm plus 2pm Thursday and 2.30pm Saturday matinees
IN 1930s’ London, ordinary people emerge from cheap boarding houses nightly to pour out their passions, hopes and dreams in the pubs and fog-bound streets of Soho and Fitzrovia. Step inside The Midnight Bell, a tavern where one particular lonely-hearts club gather to play out their lovelorn affairs of the heart: bitter comedies of longing, frustration, betrayal and redemption.
Inspired by the work of English novelist Patrick Hamilton, Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell returns to York Theatre Royal, where it first played in October 2021, with a 14-strong cast of New Adventures’ actor-dancers, music by Terry Davies and set and costume design by Lez Brotherston. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk
The poster artwork for NE Theatre York’s fully staged concert performances of Carousel
Musical of the week: NE Theatre York in Carousel, Tempest Anderson Hall, Museum Gardens, York, tomorrow to Saturday, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm Saturday matinee
STEVE Tearle directs NE Theatre York in fully staged concert performances of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel with an 18-piece orchestra conducted by Joe Allen. The cast for this tale of hope, redemption and the power of love will be led by Kit Stroud as Billy Bigelow; Rebecca Jackson as Julie Jordan; Maia Beatrice as Carrie Pepperidge; Finlay Butler as Mr Snow and Perri Ann Barley as Aunt Netty.
Cue such R&H classics as June Is Burstin’ Out All Over, If I Loved You, When I Marry Mister Snow, Blow High, Blow Low and the iconic Liverpool and Celtic terrace anthem You’ll Never Walk Alone. Box office: ticketsource.co.uk/netheatre-york.
King Creosote’s Kenny Anderson: Serving up a Storm In A Teacup at The Crescent, York
Scottish visitor of the week: Please Please You and Brudenell Presents host King Creosote, The Crescent, York, tomorrow, 7.30pm
KING Creosote follows up 2024’s springtime tour Any Port In A Storm with his Any Storm In A Teacup travels from April to June this year, again with a mix of modular synths, his back catalogue from 50 studio albums and his November 2023 album I Des, the first King Creosote recording in seven years.
As ever, Scotsman Kenny Anderson’s performance will be marked by his singular voice, allied to roguish, roving, ever-evolving, gorgeous songs in the key of Fife. Box office, for returns only: thecrescentyork.com.
Lady Nade: Paying tribute to Nina Simone. Picture: Joseph Branston
Celebration of a legacy: Lady Nade Sings Nina Simone, Helmsley Arts Centre, Saturday, 7.30pm,
KNOWN for paying homage to those who have influenced her journey profoundly, Lady Nade holds Nina Simone in high regard for leaving behind a legacy of liberation, empowerment, passion and love through her extraordinary body of work.
As a black woman, Lady Nade acknowledges Simone’s trailblazing role in paving the way for artists of her generation. Her high-energy performance is a heartfelt dedication to recreating the transformative sound that blended popular tunes of the era into a distinctive fusion of jazz, blues, gospel, and folk music. Box office: 01439 771700 or helmsleyarts.co.uk.
Pink Floydian: Showcasing the golden era of progressive rock at Milton Rooms, Malton
Tribute gig of the week: Pink Floydian, Milton Rooms, Malton, Saturday, 7.30pm
PINK Floydian’s immersive experience transports fans back to the golden era of progressive rock in a two-and-a-half hour show that takes in the Syd Barrett, Roger Waters and David Gilmour eras.
From the lush landscapes of Shine On You Crazy Diamond to the haunting refrain of Great Gig In The Sky to the anthemic Comfortably Numb and Wish You Were Here, Pink Floydian undertake a magical journey through Pink Floyd’s illustrious recording career. Box office: 01653 696240 or themiltonrooms.com.
Rachel Anderson’s Dolly Gallagher Levi, centre, and the ensemble in Pickering Musical Society’s Hello, Dolly!Picture: Robert David Photography
Goodbye to musicals: Pickering Musical Society in Hello, Dolly!, Kirk Theatre, Pickering, June 10 to 14, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm Saturday matinee
PICKERING Musical Society is preparing to raise the curtain on its final full-scale musical production, after more than a century, citing rising production costs and falling membership.
Set in the energetic bustle of 1890s’ New York, Jerry Herman’s Hello, Dolly! follows the irrepressible Dolly Gallagher Levi (society favourite Rachel Anderson) – a witty matchmaker, meddler and “arranger of things” – as she decides to find a match for herself. Box office: 01751 474833 or kirktheatre.co.uk or in person from the box office on Tuesdays, 11am to 1pm.
Christopher Simon Sykes’s photograph of Mick Jagger in concert on the Rolling Stones’ Tour of the Americas in 1975, on show at Sledmere House from June 13
Exhibition launch of the week: On Tour With The Rolling Stones 1975, A 50th Anniversary Exhibition of Photographs by Christopher Simon Sykes, Sledmere House, Sledmere, near Driffield, June 13 to July 6, except Mondays and Tuesdays, 10am to 5pm
IN June 1975, Christopher Sykes, of Sledmere House, joined the Rolling Stones Tour of the Americas, known as T.O.T.A ’75: his first rock’n’roll itinerary as a snapper after specialising in photographing stately home interiors.
“You know going on tour is not like country life, Chrissie,” advised Mick Jagger on his first day of accompanying the Stones on their three-month tour of North America and Canada, playing 40 shows in 27 cities. The photos were used in a tour diary published the following year, and this exhibition showcases a selection of the best of the behind-the-scenes and stage pictures in the Courtyard Room. Tickets: sledmerehouse.com.
FESTIVALS full of ideas and comedy lead off Charles Hutchinson’s recommendations for cultural sustenance and enlightening entertainment.
Festival of the week: York Festival of Ideas, today to June 13
YORK Festival of Ideas 2025 explores the theme of Making Waves in more than 200 mostly free in-person and online events designed to educate, entertain and inspire.
Led by the University of York, the festival features world-class speakers, performances, exhibitions, tours, family-friendly activities and much more. Topics range from archaeology to art, history to health and politics to psychology. Browse the programme at yorkfestivalofideas.com.
Pocklington Comedy Festival: The headline show will be hosted by Kiri Pritchard-McLean, centre, tonight
Comedy event of the week: Pocklington Comedy Festival, Pocklington Arts Centre, today, from 12 noon
KIRI Pritchard-McLean hosts tonight’s 8pm bill of Chris Cantrill, Joe Kent-Walters as alter ego Frankie Monroe, eccentric owner of The Misty Moon working men’s club in Rotherham, Seeta Wrightson, from Bradford, and Lee Kyle.
Earlier today, in the studio, look out for work-in-progress Edinburgh Fringe previews of Seeta Wrightson’s It’ll Be Allrightson On The Night (12 noon); Chris Cantrill’s On Your Marks (1.30pm); Frankie Monroe’s Dead Good (3pm) and Newcastle’s Louise Young (4.30pm).
This afternoon’s Family Comedy Show, introduced by Lee Kyle, features the comically chaotic antics of York magician Just Josh (aka Josh Benson) and mischievous Hull duo Jeddy Bear & Gary. Box office: pocklingtonartscentre.co.uk.
Kaiser Chiefs: Chief attraction at Temple Newsam, Leeds, today. Picture: Cal McIntyre
Yorkshire gig of the week: Kaiser Chiefs, Temple Newsam, Leeds, today, gates open at 1pm
LEEDS indie rock titans Kaiser Chiefs mark the 20th anniversary of March 2005 debut album Employment with a homecoming celebration. Employed on the bill too are: Ellur, 1.50pm; Hotwax, 2.45pm; We Are Scientists, 3.40pm; The Coral, 4.50pm; The Cribs, 6.05pm, and Razorlight, 7.20pm.
Kaiser Chiefs will be on stage from 8.50pm to 10.30pm with a special guest appearance by the Championship trophy won by Leeds United on May 4. Tickets update: still available at gigandtours.com; ticketmaster.co.uk or livenation.co.uk.
Rachel Croft: Heading back to York to play The Crescent. Picture: Michelle Fredericks
Welcome back: Rachel Croft, The Crescent, York, tonight, doors 7.30pm
AFTER re-locating from York to London, singer-songwriter Rachel Croft returns north to promote her vinyl EP A Mind Made Of Sky as part of a summer series of tempestuous shows across the UK. Expect drama, energy and thunderous alt-rock songs from Rachel “as you’ve never seen her before”. Stereo Cupid and Flat Number Two support. Box office: thecrescentyork.com.
Strictly between us: Dance couple Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara promise A Night To Remember at York Barbican
Strictly show of the week:Aljaž And Janette: A Night To Remember, York Barbican, Sunday, 7.30pm
STRICTLY Come Dancing husband-and-wife duo Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara team up in their new show with their live big band, fronted by boogie-woogie maestro Tom Seals and an ensemble cast of dancers and singers.
Strictly regular Aljaž and It Takes Two and Morning Live host Janette take to the York Barbican dancefloor to perform routines to music from the Great American songbook to modern-day classics. Box office: yorkbarbican.co.uk.
Stephen Smith in One Man Poe. Picture: Cat Humphries
Edinburgh Fringe 2024 Best Horror Solo Show winner: One Man Poe, Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, Sunday, 6pm
USING Edgar Allan Poe’s original text from the 1840s, actor-director Stephen Smith brings to life the most terrifying examples of the gothic genre from the pioneering Godfather of Gothic Horror.
In Act One, The Tell-Tale Heart, a madman strives to convince you of his sanity, while explaining the meticulous details of a murder he committed. Then, in The Pit And The Pendulum, a prisoner seeks to escape the various torture devices of the Spanish Inquisition.
In Act Two, arguably Poe’s darkest tale and definitely not one for the faint hearted, The Black Cat, documents an alcoholic’s last confession on the eve of his death. Last comes the poem that made Poe famous: The Raven. In the midnight hour, as an elderly man laments the loss of his love, an ominous visitor is heard tapping on his chamber door. Box office: tickets.41monkgate.co.uk.
New Adventures in the 2025 tour of Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell, on tour at York Theatre Royal next week. Picture: Johan Persson
Dance return of the week: New Adventures in Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell, York Theatre Royal, June 4 to 7, 7.30pm plus 2pm Thursday and 2.30pm Saturday matinees
IN 1930s’ London, ordinary people emerge from cheap boarding houses nightly to pour out their passions, hopes and dreams in the pubs and fog-bound streets of Soho and Fitzrovia. Step inside The Midnight Bell, a tavern where one particular lonely-hearts club gather to play out their lovelorn affairs of the heart; bitter comedies of longing, frustration, betrayal and redemption.
Inspired by the work of English novelist Patrick Hamilton, Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell returns to York Theatre Royal, where it first played in October 2021, with a 14-strong cast of New Adventures’ actor-dancers, music by Terry Davies and set and costume design by Lez Brotherston. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk
Steve Tearle: Directing NE Theatre York in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel
Musical of the week: NE Theatre York in Carousel, Tempest Anderson Hall, Museum Gardens, York, June 5 to 7, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm Saturday matinee
STEVE Tearle directs NE Theatre York in fully staged concert performances of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel with an 18-piece orchestra conducted by Joe Allen. The cast for this tale of hope, redemption and the power of love will be led by Kit Stroud as Billy Bigelow; Rebecca Jackson as Julie Jordan; Maia Beatrice as Carrie Pepperidge; Finlay Butler as Mr Snow and Perri Ann Barley as Aunt Netty.
Cue such R&H classics as June Is Burstin’ Out All Over, If I Loved You, When I Marry Mister Snow, Blow High, Blow Low and the iconic Liverpool and Celtic terrace anthem You’ll Never Walk Alone. Box office: ticketsource.co.uk/netheatre-york.
King Creosote’s Kenny Anderson: Serving up a Storm In A Teacup at The Crescent, York
Scottish visitor of the week: Please Please You and Brudenell Presents host King Creosote, The Crescent, York, June 5, 7.30pm
KING Creosote follows up 2024’s springtime tour Any Port In A Storm with his Any Storm In A Teacup travels from April to June this year, again with a mix of modular synths, his back catalogue from 50 studio albums and his November 2023 album I Des, the first King Creosote recording in seven years.
As ever, Scotsman Kenny Anderson’s performance will be marked by his singular voice, allied to roguish, roving, ever-evolving, gorgeous songs in the key of Fife. Box office, for returns only: thecrescentyork.com.
In Focus: International collaboration of the week: Say Owt presents chamæleon, So Many Ways To Move, Fulford Arms, Fulford Road, York, Sunday, 5.30pm
chamæleon: Collaboration of Palestinian poet Farah Chamma and Brazilian electronic musician Liev at the Fulford Armson Sunday
SAY Owt, York’s champions of raucous performance poetry and sizzling spoken word, play host for the first time to an Arabic artist and South American musician, Palestinian poet Farah Chamma and Brazilian electronic soundscape producer Liev, on Sunday.
In their poetic and political collaboration as chamæleon, Chamma and Liev explore the intersection between spoken word and musical texture, diving into the unknown to search for belonging and identity in So Many Wayes To Move.
Since 2014, Say Owt has hosted poets from Sweden, Nigeria, the United States and Canada, now adding Brazil and Palestine to that list. chamæleonhave performed in Portugal, Holland, Spain and the United Arab Emirates and this weekend they make their York debut in their only performance in the UK outside London on their 2025 travels.
So Many Ways To Move encapsulates their belief in the power of art not only to reflect the times but also to move with them. “We see art as a force of transformation, a channel for resistance and renewal,” say chamaeleon. “By weaving together sound, text and imagery, we illuminate our shared experiences and struggles.”
Farah Chamma: “Speaking truth to power from festivals to demonstrations”
Farah Chamma’s performances are described as “vital and urgent, speaking truth to power from festivals to demonstrations”. “If ever words could tear down the gates of power, it would be those spoken by Farah. Besides her native Arabic, she also writes and performs in English and French and speaks German, Spanish and Portuguese,” Say Owt states
Chamma holds a master’s degree in Performance and Culture from Goldsmiths, University of London and a BA in Philosophy and Sociology from the Sorbonne in Paris.
Based in Brazil, multi-instrumentalist and electro-organic music producer Liev uses his research to “dive into the intersectionality between machine and human-made sounds”.
Within his body of work, everyday noises and the human voice – mostly in spoken word pieces – are the raw material that ends up mixed with more complex machine and AI-generated sounds, birthing soundscapes and music that delves into the contemporary human experience.
Sunday’s support acts will be Nadira Alom and electro riot grrl act Doberwoman. Box office: https://www.fatsoma.com/e/5b1ew8fs/la/jt04.
Micklegate Arts Trail: 35 artists, 20 free events, one festival of art, music film and poetry
YORK creative collective Navigators Art launches the 2025 Micklegate Arts Trail today featuring works by 35 York artists on display in 14 shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants until June 15.
The launch day, running from 12 noon to 5pm, will present street buskers Joel Wilson (The Typing Poet), Borgia Trio, Jasmine Lowe and Nathan Kirby, along with music improvisations by Joe Allen, Desmond Clarke, Fin O’Hare, Tom Maynard (The Sounen Project) and Nick Walters at Holy Trinity Church, where Walters has coordinated the display of 3D sculptures and events.
Keep an eye out for the Extreme Knitting demonstration with giant needles by Hippystitch, alias Sally Stone in the church grounds. All these events are free.
Coordinated by Steve Beadle and George Willmore, Micklegate Arts Trail has expanded from last June’s inaugural Micklegate Art Trail – note the change from ‘Art’ to ‘Arts’ – to embrace music, film and poetry as well as art in a festival run in tandem with York Festival of Ideas that opens on the same day.
On show for the next fortnight will be works by:
Sinead Corkery: Work on show at No 84 Deli & Cafe
Raginie Duara at Lucius Books; Mark Kesteven at Old School Barber Shop; Barry Lewis, Desmond Clarke, Lu Mason, Nick Walters, Peter Baker, Richard Mackness, Sally Stone and Tom Maynard at Holy Trinity Church and Bill Oakey and Julia Leonard at Cads of Micklegate.
Look out for Nick Kobyluch, Sharon McDonagh and Sola at Skosh; Jane Dignum, Jo Rodwell and Lois Folkard at The Falcon; Chalky the Yorkie, Jasmine Foo, Jude Redpath and Sinead Corkery at No 84 Deli & Cafe; Susan Bradley at Divine Coffee Roasters; Fiona Kemp and Ali Hunter at Hudson Moody and Skulldog at Mack & Lawler Builders.
Isabel Bullon Benito and Marc Godfrey-Murphy (Marco Looks) can be found at Oxfam Bookshop; Chrissy Buse at Cafe Fleur; Elizabeth Smallman and Linda Combi at the Amnesty Bookshop and Melisaa Hill, Michael Campbell, Richard Thompson and Sarah Schiewe at The Hooting Owl in Rougier Street. Opening times may vary between venue.
“Micklegate Arts Trail is a rare community event of its kind in York,” says Navigators Art co-founder Richard Kitchen. “It’s been hard work to put it together, probably harder work than last year, because it’s not just an art trail now but we also have spoken-word and music events, taking place in three pubs, The Artful Dodger, The Falcon and The Hooting Owl.
“The great thing about the art trail is that all the work on show is chosen is chosen by the traders and shops themselves, and not by a panel. So the work is what they like and what suits their premises. That means there are no preconceptions about who will be chosen, and some quite big York names are missing out this year – the selection process is what makes it a true community event.”
Collage drop-in session at The Artful Dodger on June 8
Richard continues: “Our starting point for the festival is that Navigators Art likes Micklegate as a street, an historic street, but some people just see it as a cut-through, and some shops and traders are struggling, especially after the parking price increases, so we want to draw attention to what Micklegate has to offer.
“Hopefully the arts trail will attract pedestrians to visit the street. We’re very much doing this festival to support both Micklegate traders and the York artists they chose to display. That’s why it exists and we hope this second trail is a step to making it an annual event.”
Arts Trail events will include free live music sessions at The Falcon and The Hooting Owl on June 1, 8 and 15 at 2pm and 7pm featuring Andy Bowen and Liv Quigley, One Iota, Jasmine Lowe, Mike Amber and Will Martin.
Martin will return to The Falcon on June 4 and 11 at 7pm and further sessions will follow at The Hooting Owl on June 5 and 12 at 7pm.
The Falcon will play host to board game (in house or bring your own) on June 3 and 10. A spoken word, music and open-mic session will be held upstairs at The Artful Dodger on June 5 at 7.30pm when invited guests will include poets Janet Dean and Jessica Van Smith and singer Mike Amber. Bring your poem, an original song, guitar, or whatever, for the open-mic in a safe, supportive, non-discriminatory environment.
The poster for tonight’s YO Underground 3 bill of live & left-field music words & performance at The Basement, City Screen Picturehouse
Experimental short films by Timothy Marvell, Nick Walters and Tom Walters will be shown in the Nativity hut at Holy Trinity Church on June 7 from 9pm to 10pm.
To coincide with the arts trail launch, Navigators Art presents YO Underground 3, a night of live new music and words at The Basement, City Screen Picturehouse, tonight from 7.30pm to 10pm.
Step forward Desmond Clarke, improvisers Joe Allen & Friends, Spartacus T ruth, University of York students Katie Laing and Dan Fishwick and The Jammingtons Experience (Tom Nightingale and Mark Stokes), purveyors of idiosyncratic songs that take an ironic look at life. Tickets are on sale at bit.ly/nav-events or on the door.
In the first art demonstration, George Willmore will hold collage sessions on June 8 at 1.30pm and 3.30pm upstairs at The Artful Dodger. Two days later, upstairs at The Hooting Owl at 7.30pm, artist Melissa Hill and poet-researcher Becca Drake will team up for Creative Arrangements, where Melissa will discuss her three vases on display for the arts trail that inspired Becca to write and perform her new work.
You are invited to draw or write verses in response to the vases, poetry and talk. Free materials will be provided at both demonstrations but you can bring your own too.
Further details will follow on two more Navigators Art contributions to the Festival of Ideas: the Making Waves art exhibition at City Screen Picturehouse from June 8 to July 4 and About Time Too!, a concert of music and words to complement a day of free talks celebrating ‘Time’ at St Olave’s Church, Marygate, on June 14 at 7pm.
Navigators Art’s music programme for the Micklegate Arts Trail
Navigators Art’s inclusivity policy
NAVIGATORS Art rejects racism, misogyny and other forms of bigotry. “We strive to achieve gender balance and across-the-board inclusivity at all times,” says co-founder Richard Kitchen.
National Centre for Early Music Young Composers Award winners Avram Harris, left and Kit McCarthy at the NCEM on the awards day. Picture: Charlie Kirkpatrick
First published on May 17 2025
KIT McCarthy and Avram Harris have won the 2025 National Centre for Early Music Young Composers Awards.
Kit received the prize for the 19 to 25 age group with his composition Molten Kaleidoscope; Avram triumphed in the 18 years and under category with Transient Variations.
The final of the 18th Young Composers Award was held at the NCEM, St Margaret’s Church, Walmgate, York, presented in partnership with BBC Radio 3, on May 15.
This year, the organisers invited aspiring young composers to compose a new trio sonata movement for two violins, cello, and harpsichord. Composers were asked to explore a particular musical world and character in their piece lasting three to four minutes, focusing especially on the interplay between the instruments, and could take a movement from Handel’s Opus 5 Trio Sonatas as a reference point.
Compositions by the eight young finalists were workshopped during the day by composer Professor Christopher Fox and The Brook Street Band, led by cellist Tatty Theo. In the evening, the pieces were performed by The Brook Street Band in a public performance at the NCEM, from where the performance was live streamed to ensure that friends and families were able to join in.
The streamed performance is available on the NCEM Young Composers Award website at youngcomposersaward.co.uk.
Kit McCarthy: Winner of the 19 to 25 age category. Picture: Charlie Kirkpatrick
The shortlisted composers and pieces:
19 to 25 category:
Kit McCarthy, Molten Kaleidoscope
Parmida Eslaminazari, Celestial Reverie
Brandon Craig, Petit Matin
18 and under category:
Avram Harris, Transient Variations
Pol Macip Porter, Fugue (Tristesa)
Laura Kesiak, A Vintage Television
Ben Greenwood, Drowsiness Changes
Edward Harris-Brown, Sir Trip-a-lot’s Merriment
The 2025 panel of judges comprised BBC Radio 3 producer Les Pratt, NCEM director Delma Tomlin and The Brook Street Band cellist Tatty Theo.
Molten Kaleidoscope and Transient Variations will be premiered on October 3 at the love:Handel festival, run by The Brook Street Band in and around Norwich. The performance will be recorded for broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s Early Music Show.
Avram Harris: winner of the 18 and under category. Picture: Charlie Kirkpatrick
Delma Tomlin said: “The Young Composers Award is one of the highlights on the NCEM’s calendar and it’s always a joy to discover these young people’s extraordinary wealth of talent, and, of course, enjoy their fabulous new compositions.
“This year we’ve been working with the all-female group The Brook Street Band in an exciting new partnership. Our composers spent an inspiring day working on their compositions with the band and our esteemed colleague, composer, musician and teacher Dr Christopher Fox.
“The Young Composers Award continues to be recognised as an important landmark in the careers of young musicians and it was a privilege to welcome these talented young people to York for an inspiring day sharing music and ideas at the NCEM’s home, St Margaret’s Church.
“I’d like to say a special thank-you to Dr Christopher Fox, BBC Radio 3 and, of course, my fellow judges.”
Les Pratt, lead producer of The Early Music Show, said: “BBC Radio 3 has been partnering with the colleagues at NCEM for 18 years, supporting this award and nurturing young talent – which is one of our core missions, as the home of classical music and a place where audiences can discover the latest trends and creations.
Tatty Theo, left, and fellow members of The Brook Street Band at the National Centre for Early Music. Picture: Charlie Kirkpatrick
“Providing a platform for young composers is key in order for classical music to always keep fresh, reflect the present and look to the future. That’s why we can’t wait to share these wonderful new compositions with listeners at home on the Early Music Show and on BBC Sounds.”
Tatty Theo said: “It’s been a real privilege for The Brook Street Band to get to know these eight shortlisted compositions, and we’ve enjoyed exploring the wonderfully engaging and creative sound worlds these young composers have conjured up for our period instruments.
“The repertoire has been thought-provoking and technically demanding in very different ways to the music that inspired it, Handel’s opus 5 trio sonatas, and we’ve loved finding the links between the Handel of the 1730s and these fresh pieces of 2025.
“There’s been humour, surprise, some crazy counting and lots of questions, but we’ve relished the challenge of doing this music justice and look forward to performing the two winning compositions in October at our love: Handel festival, and hopefully incorporating them into Handel programmes in the years to come.”
The Young Composers Award is open to young composers resident in the UK up to and including the age of 25 for the aforementioned age categories. The 2026 edition of the award will be announced in late autumn.
Northern Rascalsin Sunny Side at York Theatre Royal on Thursday.Picture: Ellywel Photography
FINAL year students from York St John University are taking over York Theatre Royal for five days of creative activities for the whole family with the theme of disco.
As part of TakeOver 2025, students of musical theatre, drama and acting are creating performances within their theatre company, with each show varying so that every day is a different experience. Professional theatre companies are welcomed to the Theatre Royal too.
The disco theme will revel in vibrant colours and funky beats in a celebration of music, movement and talented performers. Audience members will be encouraged to join in on these dazzling disco events by bringing out the sequins and platform shoes.
This is the third year that York St John University has collaborated with York Theatre Royal on the TakeOver festival.
What’s in store on the disco floor?
TODAY
Goldilocks And The Three Bears Workshop: A drama-filled adventure, De Grey House, 2pm to 3.30pm
IN a session inspired by Goldilocks And The Three Bears, this workshop is suitable for five to 11-year-old children, whether they have done a drama workshop or not, and will explore movement and vocalisation to help develop the skills of a performer. Using storytelling and games as a tool for creativity, the children will gain valuable experience in performance-making.
Opening ceremony, York Theatre Royal foyer and patio, 6pm to 8pm
WELCOME to Takeover 2025 with ribbon cutting and music.
Battle Of The Bands, York Theatre Royal Studio, 8.30pm to 10.30pm
EPIC showdown between bands as they battle for victory and the title of TakeOver’s 2025 champions.
WEDNESDAY
Fulford School Show, York Theatre Royal Studio, 10.30am
OVER the past few weeks, Fulford School students have been exploring different musicals, learning harmonies and studying the work of famous musical theatre choreographers to create a small showcase for friends and family.
Joesph Rowntree School Show, York Theatre Royal Studio, 12.30pm
LED by York St John University students Darcy and Emily, Joseph Rowntree Theatre students sing and dance their way through a medley of songs from Matilda The Musical,showcasing their hard work and abilities. “See you here, revolting children,” they say.
Cabaret, York Theatre Royal lower foyer, 1pm to 2.30pm
PREPARE to be entertained as you dance and sing your way into the afternoon.
She Speaks presents Systematic Reflections, York Theatre Royal main house, 7.30pm
SET in a mental health institution, Systematic Reflections follows five women as they decide to try to escape, but can they do so without being caught?
The show discusses themes surrounding anxiety, depression, eating disorders and more mental health topics. Age guidance: 14 plus. Content guidance: Eating disorders, anxiety, depression and mental health.
Popodyssey: A journey to find a home, a father and our place in this mad, complex world, at York Theatre Royal on Saturday. Picture: Ellywel Photography
As You Dislike It , York Theatre Royal main house, 7:30pm
INSPIRED by Shakespeare’s comedy As You Like It, As You Dislike It explores the values of feminism and relationships through the use of humour and absurdity. Age guidance: 16 plus. Content guidance: Mild graphic language and mild sexual language.
Call Of The Ram presents Totally Royally F*****, York Theatre Royal main house, 7.30pm
WHEN a man of a meagre disposition finds himself down on his luck and in need of a break, outside forces push him to reconcile with his siblings in the hope he can somehow put his life back on track. This musical comedy extravaganza will “leave you feeling totally, royally, satisfied”. Age guidance: 18 plus. Content guidance: Strong language and sexual references.
Matt Price presents Raging Bill, York Theatre Royal Studio, 8pm
STAND-UP comedian Matt Price spent 18 months training to win a trophy to honour the memory of his grandad, Raging Bill Price, after he found boxing trophies in his attic.
The show is not about boxing – there is a lot more to it than that – but you will want to know what happens next. Most amateur fighters have their first fight within a few months, whereas it took Matt a year and a half before he was “ready.”
How and why does a painfully shy 21-year-old man go to a boxing gym and spend so long pursuing a sport for which he has zero talent? Why does he hate Humpty Dumpty but love karaoke?
Raging Bill is a humorous show about getting back up when life has hit you hard. Years later, having been through some ups and downs, Price learns something about himself that you will not forget. “But you will love it,” he promises.
THURSDAY
Play In A Day, York Theatre Royal Billiard Room, 10am to 1pm, free entry
ONE-DAY workshop, offering the chance to learn new skills and make a play in a day.
Free Origami Workshop, York Theatre Royal foyer, 2pm to 3.30pm, free entry, age five plus
ARE you interested in origami-style crafts? Whether you are an origami enthusiast or a complete beginner, everyone is welcome. Join this free session where the workshop hosts will run through some basic designs with step-by-step guidance. Bring your friends too to enjoy a stress-free afternoon and learn a new skill at the same time.
Northern Rascals in Sunny Side, York Theatre Royal main house, 7pm
K is struggling, at 18, living in a world where everyone but himself is rushing full steam ahead. Instead, he is trapped in a small English Everytown; a self-proclaimed “rain-soaked paradise” in the bottom of a Yorkshire valley. A town of two sides: old versus new, indigenous versus gentrified. Still nowhere fits K.
In a last attempt to understand and reconnect, he revisits the pivotal moments of his life but is left paralysed at the prospect of a future in which his voice cannot be heard.
“Where do young men stand in a world that seems to have no place for them,” asks Sunny Side, a raw and powerful portrayal of the modern young male experience, touring in partnership with Andy’s Man Club and informed by the voices of more than 750 young people across the UK.
Combining contemporary dance, theatre and spoken word, this socially urgent work from Northern Rascals explores the pain and loneliness that shape the journey from adolescence to adulthood.
Age guidance: 14 plus. Content guidance: Sunny Side explores sensitive and potentially distressing topics related to mental health, loneliness and societal pressures faced by young people. Haze and flashing light are used.
Clownpocalypse: Tragic, horrifying tale of 4½ clowns trying to stay alive in the zombie apocalypse at York Theatre Royal on Thursday
[insert company name here] presents Clownpocalypse, York Theatre Royal Studio, 7:30pm
RUN. AHHHH!!!! This is not a show. This is the true, tragic, horrifying tale of 4½ clowns trying to stay alive in the zombie apocalypse with their new (suspiciously green and hungry) friend.
It just so happens that the only safe place left is the York Theatre Royal Studio…oh no, guess you have to buy a ticket now. Age guidance: 14 plus. Content guidance: Clowns, loud noises, balloons.
Club For Hero’s presents The Face, York Theatre Royal Studio, 7.30pm
COME inside club Elysium! Experience things you never have before through fashion, music, dance and personalities of the club staff and regulars. Follow as stars rise from the darkest depths and see the people that make it happen! The beautifully unconventional are celebrated here. Could Elysium be your paradise? Age guidance: 16 plus. Content guidance: Homophobic language, violence, swearing and mild sexual references.
Daisy Chain presents Under My Skin, York Theatre Royal Studio, 7.30pm
THIS evocative theatre show intertwines Daisy Chain’s original artwork with powerful spoken word and poetry to explore the multifaceted themes of beauty, womanhood and friendship.
Delving deep into what lies beneath the surface, Under My Skin examines the experiences that shape our identities and emotions.
“Together with the audience, we will gaze at the beauty that surrounds us, questioning the routines we adopt to enhance our appearances and the societal influences that drive these choices,” say Daisy Chain cast members Amy Sparke, Sophie Budd, Catherine Dale and Gemma Gudgeon.
This immersive experience invites you to reflect on your own perceptions of beauty and the intricate tapestry of thoughts and feelings that connect us all.
Age guidance: 14 plus. Content guidance: Discussions of womanhood, touching on themes related to body dysmorphia, self-image and anxiety that may be triggering for some audience members.
FRIDAY
A Tale of Us, York Theatre Royal Studio, from 10am, 12 noon and 3pm
A CELEBRATION of the wonders, joys and challenges of becoming a new parent, blending drama and multi-sensory playtime in a relaxed environment. The experience includes a guided stay-and-play session.
Seven presents Void, York Theatre Royal main house, 7.30pm
WHAT remains when memory fades? Where does the part of ourselves that has been lost go? What is to become of the body we once lived in? Seven answers these questions in Void. Age guidance: 11 plus. Content guidance: Contains the theme of memory loss, which may be upsetting.
Symfoney presentsOff Script, York Theatre Royal main house, 7.30pm
MUSICAL theatre comedy Off Script focuses on the students of Ivison Performing Arts Academy, their teacher, Miss Kelly, and their final show, exploring their complex relationships with one another, as well as exploiting the flaws of the performing arts industry as a whole. Age guidance: 14 plus. Content guidance: Strong language and adult topics.
The poster for TakeOver 2025 at York Theatre Royal
Ariel Hebditch inSkeleton Out Of The Closet, York Theatre Royal Studio, 8pm
AFTER winning the Women in Comedy Festival’s Best Newcomer Award 2024, Ariel Hebditch is back, reeling from her disappointing job interview with Death. This time, your resident asexual goth takes you through her own personal haunted house.
From werewolves to vampires to the devil herself, Ariel brings you a night of queer joy and the decidedly more-hard-to-come-by gothic joy as your ‘humerus’ entertainer promises you the time of your death.
Stage Fright, York Theatre Royal lower foyer, 9pm, freeentry
STEP into the shadows for a chilling, interactive ghost hunt where nothing is what it seems. Guided by paranormal investigators, you will explore a haunted theatre filled with secrets ready to be exposed and scare actors waiting to blur the lines between reality and nightmare. Are you brave enough to face what is lurking backstage?
SATURDAY
Mud Pie Arts presents Beetles and Bees Tales, York Theatre Royal Studio, 11am
WHOSE side will you take when Cora, the crafty cuckoo bumblebee, sneaks her way into Queen Red-tail’s nest? Will you dare to stand up to the Brutus, the invading bark beetle, as he devours every forest in his way? Find out with Mud Pie Arts.
“Together, we will act out these bold tales of bombastic beasties!” says spinner of yarns Jenna Drury. “May half-term is the perfect time to go bug hunting, so come along to learn more. Expect all-join-in storytelling, riddles, games and post-show doodling on an epic scale.”
Jazz Dance Workshop, Billiard Room, York Theatre Royal, 3pm to 4.30pm
THIS beginner’s jazz dance class, Feeling Good, is for anyone aged 30 years and above. The class will entail a warm-up to boost the energy, followed by some basic Jazz technique in smaller groups, travelling from the corner, ending with a short jazz dance to Nina Simone’s Feeling Good.
SEND Disco Youth Session 11-17, York Theatre Royal Studio, 5.30pm to 6.30pm
GROOVE out your best moves at this electrifying disco: a dazzling evening filled with funky beats, vibrant lights and non-stop dancing. Whether you are a disco diva or boogie master, this is the place to let loose and shine.
Put on your best disco attire and prepare for unforgettable fun with friends. Focused on inclusivity and fun, this will be a memorable experience for everyone.
SEND Disco Adult Session 17+, York Theatre Royal Studio, 7pm to 8.30pm
See details above.
Popodyssey, York Theatre Royal main house, 7:30pm
LOVE Island, an inflatable Trojan horse and a thirst trap bot dressed up like a nymph: welcome to this epic storytelling show where ancient Greece collides with modern pop culture in a high-energy reworking of Homer’s Odyssey, told through text and movement.
Popodyssey is a journey to find a home, a father and our place in this mad, complex world of fake lips, telling fake news in deep fake utopias. Age guidance: 14 plus. Content warning: Infrequent swearing; discussion of war and violence; mild/subtle reference to sex, alcohol and drug use.
For more information on the 2025 TakeOver festival, visit: https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/be-part-of-it/children-and-young-people/takeover/. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
What remains when memory fades? Find out in Seven’s show Void at TakeOver 2025 on Friday
The Wizard of York, Dan Wood, sets his spellbinding WizardFest in motion for three magical days. Picture: The Story Of You
NOT only a new festival of wizardry, but Charles Hutchinson has plenty more wizard ideas too for the Bank Holiday weekend and beyond the wand.
Enchanting festival of the week: WizardFest, waving a wand over York, today to Monday
ORGANISED by The Wizard of York, Dan Wood, York’s first ever festival of wizardry promises 25 activities, events, workshops and fantastical food and drink, featuring the city’s most magical businesses.
Highlights include Wizard Walk of York walks; a Brick Magic LEGO workshop; screenings of the first three Harry Potter films at City Screen Picturehouse; Professor Kettlestring’s Puzzling World needing help to defeat dark wizard Mortius Darktrix; The Cat Gallery’s Black Cat Trail and Make It York’s Owl Trail; Monday’s Magical Night Market at Shambles Market and a fancy dress parade between St Helen’s Square and York Minster at 3pm on Monday. Plan your magical itinerary and make bookings at wizardwalkofyork.com/wizardfest.
York Printmakers’ poster for the 2025 Festival of Print
“More than an exhibition” of the week: York Printmakers, Festival of Print, 22 High Petergate, York, until July 20, open every Friday and Saturday, 10am to 5pm, and Sundays, 10am to 4pm
YORK Printmakers celebrate creativity, craft and community in a curated exhibition of original prints, from linocut and etching to screenprint and collagraph, complemented by demonstrations, talks and workshops. Visitors can explore the stories and processes behind each piece and meet the makers behind the art.
“This year’s festival is more than an exhibition,” say the organisers. “It’s an invitation to discover, to ask questions and to support York artists keeping traditional and contemporary printmaking alive.” Entry is free.
Festival Of The Force: The Star Wars convention from another galaxy, here in York
Film convention of the week: Festival Of The Force, York Railway Institute, Queen Street, York, Sunday, 10am to 5pm
MAY the Force be with you for this Star Wars convention, Festival Of The Force, whose mission is to deliver an immersive experience in celebration of the Star Wars universe while building a strong sense of community among collectors, fans, and cosplayers of all ages. Look out for a galaxy of merchandise, celebrity appearances and fan-led events. Box office: eventbrite.co.uk/e/festival-of-the-force-tickets.
Wanted in York: Julian Clary swaps guns for puns and putdowns in A Fistful Of Claryon Sunday
Camp sight of the week: Julian Clary in A Fistful Of Clary, Grand Opera House, York, Sunday, 7.30pm
JULIAN Clary goes Western as he saddles up for entendres at the double, sure that the men in the audience won’t be able to keep their hands off his Rawhide.
The lucky few will play with him on stage in the Hang‘em Low saloon, but life in the Old West was tough. Not all of Julian’s wild bunch will be around to witness the final shoot-out when he gives himself selflessly at high noon to the last man standing. Tickets update for Clary’s pun fight: still available at atgtickets.com/york.
Sophie Ellis Bextor: Disco nights at York Barbican and York Racecourse
Dancefloor diva at the double: Sophie Ellis Bextor, York Barbican, May 26, Spring Bank Holiday Monday, 7.30pm; York Racecourse Music Showcase Weekend 2025, July 25, after 8.23pm last race
“IT will be wonderful to bring the disco fun to everyone,” says Sophie Ellis Bextor, lockdown queen of the Kitchen Disco online sessions, as she heads to York twice. Buoyed by Murder On The Dancefloor’s appearance in the final scene of Emerald Fennell’s film Saltburn returning her 2001 smash to number two in the UK charts, she takes to the road with a career-spanning set also featuring Groovejet (If This Ain’t Love), Take Me Home (A Girl Like Me) and Freedom Of The Night.
The former lead singer of theaudience will be joined by special guest Natasha Bedingfield for the post-racing concert on Knavesmire in July. Box office: yorkbarbican.co.uk (last few tickets); yorkracecourse.co.uk.
Jon Mills’s cast for Miles Salter’s short play One Step Beyond, premiering at the Black Swan Inn next week
Premiere of the week: Yortk Settlement Community Players presents Miles Salter’s One Step Beyond, Black Swan Inn, Peasholme Green, York, May 26 to 28, 7.30pm
STEVE and Kerry have been married a long time. Steve’s vinyl collection may tear them apart. Luckily they have a counsellor…and Steve’s friend Boring Ryan on hand to help them out. It must be love, love, love. Jon Mills directs Stuart Green, Pamela Gourlay, Liz Quinlan, Chris Meadley and Jess Murray in York writer Miles Salter’s short play for YSCP’s Direct Approach project. Tickets to enter this House of Fun: £5, pay on the door, cash or card.
Victoria Delaney, left, and Clare Halliday in rehearsal for York Actors Collective’s production of Tiger Country at Theatre@41, Monkgate
Hospital drama of the week: York Actors Collective in Tiger Country, Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, May 27 to 31, 7.30pm, Tuesday to Friday; 2.30pm and 6pm, Saturday
NINA Raine’s doctors-and-nurses drama, last performed at Hampstead Theatre, London, in 2014, is revived by Angie Millard’s company York Actors Collective.
This fast-paced play considers doctors’ dilemmas as a range of clinical and ethical issues come under the spotlight in a busy hospital. Professionalism and prejudice, turbulent staff romances, ambition and failure collide as Raine depicts an overburdened health service and the dedicated individuals that keep it going. Box office: tickets.41monkgate.co.uk.
Nick Mohammed’s alter-ego, Mr Swallow, in Show Pony, cantering into the Grand Opera House next week and in the autumn. Picture: Matt Crockett
Comedy gig of the week: Nick Mohammed Is Mr Swallow in Show Pony, Grand Opera House, York, May 28 and October 23, 7.30pm
COMEDIAN, writer, Ted Lasso regular and Taskmaster loser Nick Mohammed transforms into his alter-ego, Mr Swallow in Show Pony, a new show that will “cover everything from not having his own sitcom to not having his own sitcom… and everything in between (critical race theory). As per – expect magic, music and a whole load of brand-new mistakes”. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.
Sir Tim Rice: Mulling over a life in musicals at the Grand Opera House, York
Musical knight of the week: Sir Tim Rice, My Life In Musicals – I Know Him So Well, Grand Opera House, York, May 29,7.30pm
LYRICIST supreme Sir Tim Rice reflects on his illustrious career at the heart of musical theatre, sharing anecdotes behind the songs, both the hits and the misses, complemented by stories of his life and live performances by leading West End singers and musicians, led by musical director Duncan Waugh. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.
Bull: “Reverse headlining” Sunday’s bill at the By The Blue Bridge Festival on the Arts Barge
First published on May 17 2025
AS the Arts Barge launches a new season and Mikron head to an allotment, Charles Hutchinson welcomes signs of the summer season ahead.
Festival of the week: By The Blue Bridge, Arts Barge, Foss Basin, York, today (17/5/2025) and tomorrow
BULL bassist, illustrator and designer Kai West and Rowan & Friends curator and frontman Rowan Evans launch the Arts Barge’s 2025 season with the By The Blue Bridge festival of music and art.
Today features free workshops from 11am to 2pm, including Water Poetry with Becca Drake, Digital Plotting with Des Clarke and a Sound Workshop led by a collective from the Hague. Musical acts from 3pm will be Sinead Una, Rowan & Friends, Captain Starlet, Gaia Blandina, Slagroom, Des Clarke, Gabriella Hunzinger and The Rattlers.
Sunday’s theme is “Folky and Weird”, kicking off with an open-mic session from 12 noon to 2pm, followed by “reverse headliners” Bull at 4pm, plus Oli, We Are Hannah, Mugwort, Kirk, Big Rain In The Morning, The Caterpillars and headliners Milkweed. Box office https://wegottickets.com/f/13779/.
Bella Gaffney: The Magpies’ folk musician plays solo at Rise@Bluebird Bakery tonight. Picture: Esme Mai
Folk gig of the week: Bella Gaffney, Rise@Bluebird Bakery, Acomb, York, tonight (17/5/2025), 7.30pm
FOLK troubadour and guitarist Bella Gaffney, one third of The Magpies, weaves together original compositions and traditional tunes from British folk and Americana traditions, as heard on her 2023 album Reflections. Support act Jake Robinson sings soulful interpretations of folk classics and jazz-inspired originals. Box office: eventbrite.com/e/bella-gaffney.
This summer, The Magpies will be hosting their annual festival at Sutton Park, Sutton on the Forest, near York, on August 8 and 9. Tickets are on sale at themagpiesfestival.co.uk.
Mikron Theatre Company actor-musicians Georgina Liley, left, James McLean, Robert Took and Catherine Warnock in Operation Beach Hut, on tour at Scarcroft Allotments, York, on Sunday. Picture: Robling Photography
Outdoor entertainment of the week: Mikron Theatre Company in Operation Beach Hut, Scarcroft Allotments, Scarcroft Road, York, Sunday (18/5/2025), 2pm
HARVEY Badger’s Operation Beach Hut whisks Sunday afternoon’s audience away to the golden sands of Fiddling-On-Sea for the annual Best Beach Hut competition as stressed-out city dweller seeks solace by the sea. As the competition day draws closer, the history of the seaside floats to the surface, washing up a host of characters and stories from centuries gone by. Soon Holly realises far more is at stake than a prize for best beach hut.
Marianne McNamara’s cast of four actor-musicians, Georgina Liley, Robert Took, Catherine Warnock and returnee James McLean, combine Marsden company Mikron’s theatrical trademarks of storytelling, original songs and live music with the guarantee of a whale of a time. No tickets required; a pay-what –you-feel collection will be taken post-show.
Harry Hill: New Bits & Greatest Hits shake up the Grand Opera Houseon Sundayfun day
Get on board the laughter train: Harry Hill, New Bits & Greatest Hits, Grand Opera House, York, Sunday (18/5/2025), 7.30pm
JOIN Harry Hill on his on his Diamond Jubilee lap of honour in celebration of 60 glorious years of fun, laughter and low-level disruption. Marvel as he offers new insights into the hot topics of the day from the culture wars to the origins of Tiramisu.
Guffaw with delight as big-collared Harry delves into his back catalogue, using his patented Old Bit Randomiser tom reactivate old favourites. Look out for son Gary, Stouffer The Cat, the Badger Parade with guest appearances from The Knitted Character and Abu Hamster, plus the chance for one lucky audience member to join Harry in a double act. Box office: for returns only, atgtickets.com/york.
Nikita Kuzmin: From Strictly Come Dancing star to Cinderella-style dance drama of star-crossed lovers in Midnight Dancer
Dance drama of the week: Nikita Kuzmin in Midnight Dancer, Grand Opera House, York, May 20, 7.30pm
STRICTLY Come Dancing’s Ukrainian star dancer and choreographer Nikita Kuzmin leaps into York in his debut British and Irish solo tour: “a fairytale ball like no other and a night full of music, sequins, and world- class dancing”.
A company of dancers and West End singer Rebecca Lisewski join him in a classic romance story as two star-crossed lovers meet only to be torn apart in this modern-day Cinderella dance drama. Will they reunite at the masked ball, or will real life put an end to their fairytale fantasy? Box office: atgtickets.com/york.
Sisters doing it for themselves: Hayley Bamford’s Deloris Van Cartier, centre, leading the nuns in song in Sister Act: A Divine Musical Comedy
Nun better musical of the week: York Musical Theatre Company in Sister Act: A Divine Musical Company, Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York, May 21 to 24, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm Saturday matinee
KATHRYN Addison directs York Musical Theatre Company in Alan Menken’s American musical with Hayley Bamford in the sassy role of “novice nun” Deloris Van Cartier.
When club singer Deloris witnesses nightclub owner Curtis Jackson (Zander Fick), commit murder, the police hide her in a convent, where she meets the Mother Superior (Kirstin Grififths) and an ensemble of 22 nuns. Cue multiple upbeat numbers as friendships grow and the convent is saved from financial ruin. Hallelujah! Box office: 01904 501935 or josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk.
Switch way now? Thomas Frere and Cal Stockbridge in Clap Trap Theatre’s Switcheroo, the play told two ways, as comedy, then in serious mode. Picture: Jay Sillence
Role-swapping play of the week: Clap Trap Theatre in Switcheroo, York Theatre Royal Studio, May 22 to 24, 7.45pm and 2.30pm Saturday matinee. Post-show discussion, May 23.Also Hemsley Arts Centre, May 31, 7.30pm
TOM Needham’s play Switcheroo is based on the simple premise that “it’s not what you say, it’s the way that you say it”. Presented by Ryedale company Clap Trap Theatre, the story follows three siblings who, when it comes to scattering their mother’s ashes, are hit with a bombshell revelation that turns their world upside down.
The first act is a full-blown, larger-than-life comedy, whereupon the actors swap characters to repeat it as a serious drama. Paul Birch directs a cast of Thomas Frere (Alex/Sam), Clap Trap co-founder Cal Stockbridge (Sam/Pat) and Dominic Goodwin (Pat/Alex). Box office: York, 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk; Helmsley, 01439 771700 or helmsleyarts.co.uk.
Paul Chowdhry: On tour in Englandia at York Barbican on Friday
Comedy gig of the week: Paul Chowdhry, Englandia, York Barbican, May 23, 7.30pm
PAUL Chowdhry, the most successful British Indian stand-up comedian in British history, heads to York on his 41-date itinerary. “After more than a quarter of a century and half my
life on comedy stages, it’s time for my biggest tour ever,” says The Paul Chowdhry PudCast podcaster. “I hope to see you there. If not, I’ll be in massive debt and doing benefit gigs for the foreseeable future.” To help Chowdhry avoid that scenario, book tickets at yorkbarbican.co.uk.
Neigh sayer: Elf Lyons horsing around at Theatre@41, Monkgate
Horse show of the year: Elf Lyons: Horses, Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, May 23, 8pm
WELCOME to the first ever comedy show performed entirely by a horse. Made by award-winning comedian, clown, theatre practitioner and teacher Elf Lyons, performed by Treacle. Horse box office: tickets.41monkgate.co.uk
Magic ahead: The Wizard of York, alias Dan Wood, raises his wand to conjure WizardFest, York’s first festival of wizardry. Picture: The Story Of You
THE Wizard of York has waved his magic wand over the upcoming Spring Bank Holiday to conjure up the city’s first WizardFest.
Programmed by Dan Wood, owner of The Wizard Walk of York, the May half-term festival will feature a spellbinding range of activities, events, workshops and fantastical food and drink.
Little Vikings are co-hosting the May 24 to 26 event with support from Make It York. Maps can be collected from the Visit York Centre or from festival sponsors Loopy Scoops, The Cat Gallery, Totally Awesome Toys and The Society of Alchemists.
Alternatively, a full list of events and booking links can be found at wizardwalkofyork.com/wizardfest to plan your magical itinerary. Prompt booking is recommended.
“One of my favourite moments on The Wizard Walk is when visitors new to the city first turn down Minster Gates and see the Minster in all its magnificent glory,” says The Wizard of York, Dan Wood. Picture: The Story Of You
Here Dan Wood discusses wizardry, walks and the magic of York with CharlesHutchPress.
What gave you the idea to run a Wizard Fest in York, Dan?
“I’ve been running The Wizard Walk of York for more than three years now, and in that short time I’d already collaborated with lots of businesses doing magical things in the city. We’d enjoyed other York festivals as a family, and thought it was high time we really celebrated York’s magical side with a city-wide family festival of fun!
“I’d previously helped create festivals during my role as creative manager of Alton Towers – including ScareFest for Halloween and JingleFest over Christmas – so it’s nice to don this hat once again.
“My wife Bev is stage managing the festival, and we have a whole team of marshals (in hi-vis wiz jackets) involved. It’s quite the undertaking, but also very exciting and the first of many to come.”
You have brought plenty of partners on board, wide ranging too. How important is that support?
“We’ve been absolutely blown away by the support from local businesses. I’ve approached companies with some fairly unusual and outlandish ideas, and they’ve almost always said ‘yes, we can do that!’.
“The goal has always been to bring together small businesses, to really champion and shout about great independent organisations in the city. Almost all WizardFest partners are indies, except for LUSH, who are providing magical bath bomb making sessions with Avocado Events.
“We have a new exclusive Black Cat Quest with the Cat Gallery, Beastly Burgers in the shape of a monster from Baby Boy’s Burger at SPARK:York, Dragon Sundaes at Loopy Scoops and lots more. Professor Kettlestring’s have a new Cursed event, where visitors can find the witches and wizards around the attraction to lift the spell, and there are all kinds of workshops, tours and trails. Wizard fans can even catch the first three Harry Potter films at City Screen.
“Many businesses have donated prizes too, whether for my recent Name A Dragon contest for the free Fancy Dress Parade on the final day. Many are offering discounts for anyone dressed up as a witch or wizard too, so be sure to dress to impress.
“We’ve partnered with Little Vikings, York’s leading guide to what’s on for families across the city. Loopy Scoops, The Cat Gallery, Totally Awesome Toys and The Society of Alchemists are sponsoring the event. Make it York are also supporting it with the Owl Trail and Magical Night Market.”
What first drew you to wizardry, Dan?
“I started magic as a young child but discovered wizardry later in life when, like so many others, I got swept up in the Harry Potter phenomenon. In fact, long before becoming The Wizard of York, I was hired as a wizard at a bookshop whilst living in London, for the launch of the fifth book.
“When I moved to York, wizardry was one of many themed parties I offered as The Magic Hatter. My Halloween shows at Piglets Adventure Farm became wizard-themed rather than spooky or scary. The National Railway Museum later booked me to perform walkaround magic as a wizard when they had the Oulton Hall, aka Hogwarts Express. Who’d have thought I’d now be York’s own full-time wandering Wizard?!”
Dan Wood in his magical Easter bonnet circa 1992
When did you first do a magic/wizard show?
“My magical journey first started with a Paul Daniels Magic set one Christmas. I liked it, not a lot! I was fascinated with how the tricks worked and the reactions they got from friends and family.
“My first magic show was at the tender age of seven, in a cardboard top hat and my dad’s oversized wedding jacket. A young entrepreneur, I’d charge friends ten pence to watch shows in our back garden. No photos or video unfortunately as this was long before smartphones, but I wonder if I’m still doing any of the same jokes…
“I did manage to find a photo of me in a magical Easter bonnet top hat though, circa 1992, and it’s funny to think I later became The Magic Hatter and made a career in magic!”
Who inspired your love of wizardry?
“I’ve always been intrigued by wizardry, and find it elevates magic from just magic shop props to something a little more theatrical. The eagle-eyed may recognise that my first Wizard of York outfit – complete with dark red cloak and hat – is actually more inspired by Pratchett’s Rincewind than Potter!
“I grew up watching and reading The Lord Of The Rings, and then the Harry Potter series too. Along with Mrs Wizard, I’m heading to London this summer to see Cursed Child for our 40th birthday celebrations, which I hear is full of magic, illusions and stage trickery. It should be right up my alley.
“For the Wizard Walk though, and for WizardFest, I feel we’ve put our own stamp on wizardry and created something unique. It’s ideal for Harry Potter fans, but no knowledge of the wizarding world is needed.”
What makes York such a magical city?
“Quite simply, York is magic. The cobbled streets, winding alleys and crooked buildings could be lifted from the pages of any fantasy novel. It’s the people who really make it though; whether the enthusiastic and excited families who join my tours, or the shop owners who are always up for a friendly chat and to throw ideas around.
“Some locals will say that it’s becoming a theme park, but I don’t think wizardry detracts from the history or beauty of York. I love York’s rich and diverse history, and there are some fantastic historical tours, activities and museums. Some will want to explore York’s history – which is still very much available and accessible – and others will want to focus on magical family fun, or ideally a bit of both!”
The Wizard Of York print, designed by Lincoln Lightfoot in a nod to The Wizard Of Oz
Factually, Harry Potter has no links with York and yet he has become synonymous with Shambles. Is that good for York and for wizardry in the city?
“The Wizard Walk is not a Harry Potter tour, and I never make the claim that York has anything to do with the franchise. But, of course, the city attracts Potter fans by the thousands, and there are plenty of magical things to do for visiting families.
“There are no tangible links to Harry Potter in York, not even York Railway Station. Many people think that the footbridge was used for shots in the first film, but this was in fact a bridge in Kings Cross that has since been moved to the Watercress Line in Hampshire.
“I still hear tour guides – and tourists – saying that Shambles inspired JK Rowling, or even that Harry Potter was filmed here! Not true in the slightest, but to me this doesn’t make York any less enchanting.
“Perhaps the local link is a rumour that got out of hand, but wizardry is very much here to stay, especially with a new ten-season Harry Potter TV series in the works. For me, York really lends itself to the concept of wizardry and I absolutely love bringing a whirlwind of magical entertainment to the streets.”
What makes York an ideal city for all manner of walking tours: from ghosts to history to wizardry?
“There really is something for everyone in York, whether visitors want to find out about local history, get spooked on a ghost walk or enjoy magic and comedy. The beauty of any tour in York is that we pass the most spellbinding sights…from the iconic Shambles to York Minster, Clifford’s Tower to St William’s College.
“One of my favourite moments on The Wizard Walk is when visitors new to the city first turn down Minster Gates with me and see the Minster in all its magnificent glory.”
Which WizardFest events have sold out?
“We’ve added extra tours on the Wizard Walk of York over WizardFest – and throughout half-term – and some of these filled up well in advance. The Story Craft Theatre workshops, A Kind Of Magic, are sold out, and there are very limited spaces left on the Brick Magic LEGO workshops at York Medical Society.
“We recommend visitors book for all paid activities as soon as possible, before tickets all…vanish! All booking links are at wizardwalkofyork.com.”
York artist Lincoln Lightfoot with his Wizard of York print
How did York surrealist artist Lincoln Lightfoot become involved in the festival?
“The idea for the Wizard of York print was a real light bulb moment. One day the sun was bouncing off the Shambles cobbles, giving them a yellowish hue. It reminded me of the Yellow Brick Road from The Wizard Of Oz, and then I thought back to Lincoln’s renowned film prints.
“He had already put King Kong on York Minster, a Kraken in the Ouse and a T-Rex on Shambles – so it wasn’t a stretch to create a Wizard of York/Oz mashup!
“Another ‘full circle’ moment is that I played the Wizard in The Wiz in a high school production many moons ago too…
“It’s a real ‘pinch me’ moment to be immortalised in a piece of art and I’m thrilled with the piece that he’s conjured up. The print is available from me directly, from Fabrication Crafts, on Stonegate, or Lincoln’s website, lincolnlightfoot.com.
“Lincoln also will have a stall at the Magical Night Market as part of the festival, on Monday evening in Shambles Market between 7.30pm and 10pm.”
What a wizard idea for a festival
What plans are in place for the 2026 festival?
“We are already busily working on plans for WizardFest 2026 and I have spreadsheets…I mean ancient parchment scrolls…full of new ideas and activities,. We’re already accepting applications from new sponsors and collaborators, and looking to build on the partnerships we already have.
“We’re considering a world-record attempt on a huge scale, and we’re talking to various companies about bringing in pop-up events, such as broomstick training, wand duelling and more.
“With 25 activities this year, it’s bigger than we ever expected, but we plan to go even bigger and better next year. Like a great magic trick though, I don’t want to give away the secrets and spoil it, but be sure to keep an eye on my Wizard Walk of York socials for details.
“To get involved, send me an owl of enquiry via wizardwalkofyork.com, where you can also plan your magical itinerary for this coming weekend. Bring on the magic!”
The artwork for Shakespeare’s Speakeasy at York International Shakespeare Festival
“IT’S Shakespeare, but it’s secret”.Can a group of strangers successfully stage a Shakespearean play in a day?
Shakespeare’s Speakeasy is the place find out as part of York International Shakespeare Festival at Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, tomorrow at 7.30pm (box office, yorkshakes.co.uk).
Directed and produced by Steve Arran, for one night only this production offers an irreverent and entertaining take on one of Bill the Bard’s best-known plays, crammed into only 60 minutes.
“Five actors are given a script with their lines and cues and must learn it over the course of a month without ever meeting each other,” says Steve. “On the day of performance, the actors meet for the first time and rehearse for six hours before staging a 100 per cent ‘not-all-serious play’ from the canon.
“But which play will it be? Well, like all good Speakeasy shows, that’s a secret. The only way to find out is to come inside.”
Like last year’s inaugural York Shakespeare Speakeasy, when he played Sir Toby Belch in Twelfth Night, one of the actors will be Ian Giles, soon to reveal his Bottom in York Stage’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Grand Opera House, York, from May 6 to 11 (box office, atgtickets.com/york).
Ian Giles’s Bottom in York Stage’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, set on a northern council estate
