Tag: Clifton Explore

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More Things To Do in York and beyond as Carol concerts burst into festive song. Hutch’s List No. 53, from The York Press

Next Door But One movement director Bailey Dowler, left, with writer-director Matt Harper-Hardcastle and cast members Ceridwen Smith, centre, Annie Rae Donaghy and Emily Chattle rehearsing for their Explore York library tour of When Robins Appear

CAROL concerts, festive shows and a musical aboard a Christmas steamer fill Charles Hutchinson’s in-box for December delights.

A different kind of Christmas show of the week: Next Door But One in When Robins Appear, York Explore, today and tomorrow, 11am and 2pm; Tang Hall Explore, December 15, 5.30pm; Clifton Explore, December 18, 5.30pm; York Explore, December 20 and 21, 11am and 2pm

WRITTEN and directed by Next Door But One artistic director Matt Harper-Hardcastle, When Robins Appear follows two friends as they face the big changes of moving house, starting new schools and a first Christmas without Grandma, when the festive sparkle seems to be missing.

Equipped with the help of a magical Robin (played by Ceridwen Smith), 12-year-old Ellis (Annie Rae Donaghy) and Lowen (Emily Chattle) are whisked away on a heart-warming journey through their favourite wintery memories to find the magic again. Soon they discover that the real sparkle of Christmas will not be found under the tree, but in the laughter, love and unforgettable moments we share together and that can live forever in our hearts. Tickets update: Sold out. For returns only, go to: www.nextdoorbutone.co.uk.

Adrian Cook’s Captain, top, Alexandra Mather’s Reno Sweeney and Leo Portal’s Ship’s Purser in Pick Me Up Theatre’s Anything Goes

Full steamer ahead of the week: Pick Me Up Theatre in Anything Goes, Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, until December 21, then December 27 to 30

DITCH York’s December chills and climb aboard the S.S. American as it sets sail in Andrew Isherwood’s all-singing, all-dancing staging of Anything Goes, Cole Porter’s swish musical, charting the madcap antics of a motley crew leaving New York for London on a Christmas-themed steamer.

Meet nightclub singer/evangelist Reno Sweeney (Alexandra Mather) and lovelorn Wall Street broker Billy Crocker (Adam Price), who has stowed away on board in pursuit of his beloved Hope Harcourt (Claire Gordon-Brown). Alas, Hope is engaged to fellow passenger Sir Evelyn Oakleigh (Neil Foster). Enter second-rate conman Moonface Martin (Fergus Powell) to join Reno in trying to help Billy win the love of his life. Box office: tickets.41monkgate.co.uk.

Freida Nipples: Hosting tonight’s Baps & Buns Burlesque at Rise@Bluebird Bakery, Acomb

Dr Lara McClure: Weird and wonderful storytelling in Christmas Presence

Cabaret night of the week: Baps & Buns Burlesque, Rise@Bluebird Bakery, Acomb, York, tonight, 7pm

YORK burlesque artiste Freida Nipples hosts her last Baps And Buns Burlesque of 2025 at Bluebird Bakery, joined by drag queens and acrobatic acts for a night of debauched and glamorous cabaret in Acomb. Sorry to raise hopes, but this one is waiting list only at bluebirdbakery.co.uk.

You may have better luck for Christmas Presence, Dr Lara McClure’s weird and wonderful stories for the festive season, on December 17 at 8.30pm. Tickets: bluebirdbakery.co.uk.

Jingle All The Way cast members Emilio Encinoso-Gil and Hannah Christina in rehearsal with musical director Dylan Allcock for Elizabeth Godber’s Christmas play at Pocklington Arts Centre

Deer double act of the week: Jingle All The Way, Pocklington Arts Centre, until December 23; relaxed performance on December 14, 1.30pm

FROM the team behind The Elves And The Shoemaker Save Christmas and Jack Frost’s Christmas Wish comes Elizabeth Godber’s latest Christmas family adventure, co-directed by Jane Thornton with musical direction by Dylan Allcock.

Reindeer siblings Rex (Emilio Encinoso-Gil) and Rosie(Hannah Christina) are reluctant to start at a new school just before Christmas, especially when that school is the East Riding Reindeer Academy, home of supreme athletes. Santa has a position free on his sleigh squad; could this be Rex’s big chance? Box office: 01759 301547 or pocklingtonartscentre.co.uk.

Eve Lorian: Conducting Prima Choral Artists in Christmas concerts at St Olave’s Church, Marygate, York tonight and next Saturday

Choral concerts of the week: Prima Choral Artists, Family Christmas Concerts, St Olave’s Church, Marygate, York, today and December 20, 4pm to 5pm; Choirs At Christmas, Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York, December 16 to 18, 7.30pm

PRODUCED and conducted by Prima Choral Artists director Eve Lorian, these concerts combine her choir with the New World String Quartet, organist James Webb and pianist Greg Birch in reflective and cheerful Christmas celebrations. Here come high-spirited festive classics, modern choral arrangements and string and organ repertoire, including works by Tchaikovsky and Rawsthorne. Box office: primachoral.com and on the door.

The Joseph Rowntree Theatre plays hosts to three magical fundraising evenings of Christmas classics from Tuesday to Thursday. The Shepherd Brass Band’s brace of Gala Christmas Concerts on December 19 and 20 at 7.30pm are fully booked. Box office: 01904 501935 or josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk.

Christmas Carols composer Don Pears, left, York Guildhall Orchestra leader Fiona Love, producer Bob Whitney and conductor Simon Wright

Album launch of the week: A Christmas Selection Box, A Music Night Production with Don Pears and Singphonia Singers, Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York, tomorrow, 7pm

THE Singphonia Singers, a group of talented performers formed by York composer Don Pears, showcases Don and Jo Pears’ festive album Christmas Carols in A Christmas Selection Box. The album will be on sale at Sunday’s concert or can be downloaded from Spotify, Apple iTunes and Amazon Music. Box office: 01904 501935, josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk or on the door.

Steve Cassidy: Performing at York’s Annual Community Carol Concert at York Barbican

Family festive fun of the week: York’s Annual Community Carol Concert, York Barbican, tomorrow, 2pm  

SUNDAY is the time to don Christmas jumpers and Santa hats for York’s Annual Community Carol Concert, where Shepherd Brass Band, St Paul’s CE Primary School Choir, All Saints RC School Choir andAmber Ford join special guest Ken Humphreys for an afternoon of Christmas cheer.

Carol concert regular Steve Cassidy sings with the ensemble, while the community singing will be led by musical director Mike Pratt.  The Reverend Andrew Foster and Adam Tomlinson will be on hosting duty. Box office: yorkbarbican.co.uk.

The poster for The Bootleg Beatles’ Monday concert at York Barbican, focusing on the Fab Four’s five biggest-selling studio albums

Tribute show of the week: The Bootle Beatles, 5: The Concert, York Barbican, December 15, 7.30pm

THE Bootleg Beatles follow up their celebration of songs from The Beatles’ quintet of films with another Famous Five. This time, the focus is on the Fab Four’s top five-selling albums, the Bob Dylan-influenced Rubber Soul, the experimental Revolver, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, heralding the Summer of Love and psychedelia, The White Album, with its glorious mish-mash of styles, and their grand finale, Abbey Road. Box office: yorkbarbican.co.uk.

Recommended but sold out already: Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra with special guests Imelda May, Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and Sumudu Jayatilaka, at York Barbican on December 17, 7.30pm.

Jools Holland: Sold-out return to York Barbican on December 17

Festive folk concert of the week: Green Matthews, Midwinter Revels, National Centre for Early Music, York, December 16, 7.30pm

FOLK duo Chris Green and Sophie Matthews complete a hat-trick of festive visits to the NCEM on Tuesday, following up A Christmas Carol: In Concert and A Brief History Of Christmas with Midwinter Revels.

Spanning several centuries, this celebration of Yuletide Past promises to warm the cockles of even Scrooge’s heart with Christmas carols, winter folk songs, tunes and weird and wonderful instruments, all  complemented by Green Matthews’ trademark wit. Box office: 01904 658338 or ncem.co.uk.

Chris Green and Sophie Matthews: Returning to NCEM full of Christmas cheer

Recommended but sold out alas: Chapter House Choir, Carols By Candlelight, The Nave, York Minster, December 19, 7.30pm

IN The 60th anniversary of the Chapter House Choir, the candlelit Nave of York Minster will play host to Carols By Candlelight, the York choir’s much-loved seasonal tradition, directed by Ben Morris.

A rich selection of carols both old and new will be complemente by the Chapter House Youth Choir, under Charlie Gower-Smith’s direction, alongside festive favourites from the Handbell Ringers. A new commission by French composer Héloïse Werner, marking the choir’s milestone, receives its world premiere. Doors open at 6.45pm.

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Next Door But One delivers a different kind of Christmas show on York library tour of When Robins Appear from Dec 13 to 21

Next Door But One movement director Bailey Dowler, left, and artistic director Matt Harper-Hardcastle with When Robins Appear cast members Ceridwen Smith, centre, Annie Rae Donaghy and Emilly Chattle. Picture James Drury

NEXT Door But One brings a different kind of Christmas show to Explore York libraries from December 13 to 21, a show for those who have a different kind of Christmas.

This York theatre company and community arts collective is no stranger to making imaginative, accessible and fun-filled theatre for children and young people since 2013, but When Robins Appear will be NDB1’s first play for the festive season.

Since touring Philip Pullman’s The Firework-Maker’s Daughter in 2021, NDB1’s audiences and community groups have been asking the company when a Christmas show might be created.

However, Matt Harper-Hardcastle, NDB1’s chief executive officer and  artistic director, was hesitant initially, saying : ‘York already has an abundance of festive activity, from pantomimes and touring shows, to light displays and infamous markets. What could we offer that was different yet complementary?”

Matt wrestled with the idea for a while, but with each new project or production over the past three years, it became ever more apparent what NBD1’s inaugural Christmas production could be.

“Our 2023 tour of Operation Hummingbird, a show exploring anticipatory grief, originally intended for an adult audience, was engaging more and more young people,” says Matt. “Our extensive work with York Carers Centre would always gravitate towards navigating Christmas as the end of the year approached.

Emily Chattle, left, and Annie Rae Donaghy in a down moment in rehearsal for When Robins Appear

“Finally, primary schools wanted more theatre that was fun but could explore big topics for young people, following our tour of How To Be A Kid. So, since January, NDB1 has engaged more than 70 young people, listening to their experiences about winter and Christmas to shape a new script.

“Stories of becoming a young carer, of being in new places, of feeling overwhelmed by changes, of first Christmases without loved ones and so much more.”

Overall, however, rather than stories of sadness, what emerged were tales of incredible resilience and hope in the form of When Robins Appear. “Our show celebrates how families and individuals can create meaningful celebrations that work uniquely for them, and that something different to other people can be cherished and revelled in,” says writer Matt.

“The core message is simple: Your Christmas doesn’t have to look like a greeting card. If it works for you and your loved ones, it’s beautiful and valid.”

When Robins Appear follows two 12-year-old friends as they face the big changes of moving house, starting new schools and a first Christmas without Grandma, when the snow has fallen, the winter stars are twinkling but the sparkle of Christmas seems to be missing.

Equipped with the help of a magical Robin (played by Ceridwen Smith), Ellis (Annie Rae Donaghy) and Lowen (Emily Chattle) are whisked away on a heart-warming journey through their favourite wintery memories to find the magic again.

The poster for Next Door But One’s tour of Explore York libraries with debut Christmas show When Robins Appear

From festive food and colourful fairy lights, to joyful songs and thoughtful gifts, they soon discover that the real sparkle of Christmas will not be found under the tree, but in the laughter, love and unforgettable moments we share together and that can live forever in our hearts.

Given the subject matter, will When Robins Appear still feel festive? “The answer is a big, red-feathered ‘yes’,” says Matt. “Our show is high-energy, packed with catchy songs, an enchanting design and plenty of audience interaction. It’s a festive celebration that gently explores big feelings around change, loss, friendship and what really makes unforgettable moments!

“Co-created with children and young people from across our community – including young carers, those in care, youth theatres and disability and mental health support services – this  is as inclusive and meaningful as it is magical.”

Preceded by primary school shows today (11/12/2025) and tomorrow, the ten public performances have all but sold out (all except December 21, 11am, at York Explore): affirmation of the popularity of the £3.50 ticket price.

“We aim to make a heartfelt festive experience affordable to more families in York,” says Matt. “Teaming up with our fantastic friends at Explore York means we can bring affordable theatre right to the doorsteps of families across York this winter,” says Matt.

Making her first theatre appearance back home in York since graduating from East 15 Acting School with first class honours in contemporary theatre, Annie Rae Donaghy will be playing Ellis.

“Not only is When Robins Appear a beautiful story, but it will mean something to everyone in the room watching it,” says Annie Rae Donaghy

“Auditioning for this show really meant something to me,” she says. “I really wanted to be part of it and I rejoiced because I get to have Christmas at home and share mum and dad’s fridge!”

Her motive was more serious than that. “I think this show is the right way to address this subject. It’s all very well talking about it, but if you’re not helping the community you’re performing to, what’s the point of it?” says Annie.

“It’s brought my acting career and my own story and community life together. I grew up looking after my nan, and every Christmas we spend with lots of people at the Xmas Presence party [a festive appeal set up by dad Big Ian Donaghy in 2015 to stop 60 older York residents being lonely at Christmas each year].

“Not only is When Robins Appear a beautiful story, but it will mean something to everyone in the room watching it.”

Next Door But One presents When Robins Appear at York Explore, December 13, 11am and 2pm, and December 14, 11am and 2pm; Tang Hall Explore, December 15, 5.30pm; Clifton Explore, December 18, 5.30pm; York Explore, December 20, 11am and 2pm; December 21, York Explore, 11am (tickets available) and 2pm. Sold out unless stated otherwise.

BSL Interpreted performances are on December 14 at 2pm and December 20 at 11am. Age recommendation: Seven to 11 and their families. All except babes in arms requite a ticket to attend. Box office: www.nextdoorbutone.co.uk.

Annie Rae Donaghy, second from right, performing with Jess Steel, left, Heather Findlay and Beth McCarthy at Big Ian’s A Night To Remember charity fundraiser at York Barbican on November 12. Picture: David Harrison

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Accessible Arts & Media to launch open-mic event Laugh, Lyrics & You! at Gateway Centre on Oct 26. How do you take part ?

YORK charity Accessible Arts and Media are launching an inclusive open-mic event, Laugh, Lyrics & You!, at Gateway Centre, Front Street, Acomb, York, on October 26 from 2.30pm to 5pm.

“The idea is to have an open-mic type event in a relaxed and friendly environment that’s accessible and fun,” says chief executive officer Chris Farrell. “Our projects, IMPs, Movers and Shakers and Hands and Voices, will start the event off and then it’s over to whoever would like to perform.

“Any talent is welcome: a duet, a solo instrument, a poetry reading, a recording of some original music, jokes…whatever you can think of will be great!” 

How do you book for Laugh, Lyrics & You? “Whether you’d like to perform, or sit and enjoy the show, you can:

Chris joined Accessible Arts & Media as chief exec in April after inspirational co-founder and charity leader Rose Ken stepped down after more than 30 years.

Her last act was to oversee the organisation’s re-location to a purpose-built space at Clifton Explore, Rawcliffe Drive, York.

At the time of her exit stage left, Rose said: “Little did I know when I founded the Accessible Arts arm of the charity back in 1992 that I’d still be here 32 years later.

Rose Kent, left, launching Accessible Arts & Media in 1992

“It’s been a real privilege to run an organisation that’s all about supporting people to find their voice and play an active role in their local community. It’s been AAM-azing!”

A cornerstone of York’s inclusive creative community for four decades, Accessible Arts & Media offers life-changing opportunities through arts, performance and wellbeing activities.

The new location and CEO finds the charity ready to enter its next period of growth and innovation. Following an extensive search, the organisation selected Chris Farrell for the CEO’s post. He joined the organisation from Age UK York and has enjoyed a career in senior roles at charities that provide vital support to people across the country – and he has made his mark as a musician too.

“I first shared a stage with Accessible Arts & Media almost a decade ago, so I’ve known for many years the difference the organisation makes for participants and for the wider community,” says Chris.

“It’s a pretty big task to try and fill Rose’s boots, but I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to steer the charity into its next chapter and, with your support, I know we can do some pretty amazing things.”

Last year, Accessible Arts & Media delivered 614 creative learning and wellbeing sessions across the city. They support almost 500 people a year, and are well known for their gigs and busking, where audience participation is highly encouraged.

Chris now leads the organisation through the ever-evolving charity landscape, building on the organisation’s strong networks within York’s learning disability, culture and wellbeing sectors.

“It’s certainly been an interesting six months so far,” he says. “But having first recorded at the Old Dairy in the late 1990s, it feels a full circle coming back into this role.”

Lucy Galliard, chair of trustees, said: “We’re thrilled that Chris has joined us. From a strong field of candidates, Chris stood out as a top-quality candidate with the perfect balance of strategic and leadership skills, and a true understanding of what we do and why it’s needed.”

Chris Farrell: Took over as chief executive officer of Accessible Arts & Media in April

Lucy paid homage to Rose for her longstanding service and huge contribution to the city’s cultural life. “Rose has been the powerhouse behind AAM for over three decades. Her achievements are huge, as has been the effort, attention – and most importantly – love that she has put into the organisation.

“Whilst we’re of course sad to see her leave, everyone at AAM is excited for Rose to be able to redirect that passion and love into herself, her dogs and her garden gnome collection!”

Accessible Arts & Media: back story

INCLUSIVE arts and media charity, based at Clifton Explore, York. Delivering arts and media learning and wellbeing programmes in and around York since 1982.

Mission statement: “We believe that everyone can learn, everyone can be creative and everyone can play a part in their local community. They just need the right support, and that’s where we come in.”

AAM support almost 500 people each year, including disabled adults and young people, older people living with dementia and people with severe, enduring mental ill-health.

AAM projects support their wellbeing by helping them develop the skills and confidence to have more of a say in the things that matter to them, and feel happy, connected and valued. “Now, more than ever, our projects provide a vital social lifeline for people who are all too often isolated and forgotten.”  

  For more information on Accessible Arts & Media, visit www.aamedia.org.uk.

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NCEM Platform Artists Intesa to undertake Baroque Around The Books informal tour of Explore York libraries with free admission

Intesa’s Lucine Musaelian and Nathan Giorgetti: Baroque Around The Books mini-tour

MUSICAL duo Intesa will embark on a Baroque Around The Books mini-tour of four community libraries after their appearance at this month’s York Early Music Christmas Festival.

This National Centre for Early Music cultural wellbeing initiative on December 16 and 17 is a partnership between the NCEM and Explore York Libraries and Archives.

Suitable for all, the initiative began early this year and now returns with the involvement of NCEM Platform Artists Intesa, the young European viol and voice duo of Lucine Musaelian and Nathan Giorgetti, who will be staying on in York for a short residency and library musical tour after their December 15 festival performance at Bedern Hall, Bedern.

At 11am that day, Intesa will present A Merry Conceit, exploring the theme of seeking light in the midst of dark and wintry weather in a programme of Dowland, Hume and Cuccini works alongside a selection of Armenian folk songs.

Musaelian and Giorgetti, who met at the Royal Academy of Music, formed their musical partnership in 2023, Intesa being the Italian word for ‘understanding’ or ‘a meeting of minds’. They share a passion for the sound of the viol and its combination with the voice.

Intesa’s Lucine Musaelian

The workshops will provide the communities of York with an opportunity to celebrate and discover Early Music with these two talented young performers. In turn, Baroque Around The Books reinforces the NCEM’s  ongoing commitment to support, encourage and nurture the skills of emerging artists in the UK and beyond.

On December 16,  Intesa will tour Tang Hall Explore at 12 noon and York Explore at 2.30pm (both free entry, no booking required); on December 17, Acomb Explore, 11am (booking required; acquire free ticket at Acomb Explore or online at tickettailor.com/events/exploreyorklibrariesandarchives/1145052), and Clifton Explore, 1.30pm (free entry, no booking required).

Tickets are free for these informal concerts thanks to an initiative by the NCEM, working in association with Explore York, supported by the Mayfield Valley Arts Trust. 

NCEM director Delma Tomlin says: “Intesa are one of three ensembles from Europe performing at this year’s York Early Music Christmas Festival, and it’s a pleasure to welcome them to York for this brilliant tour.

“Baroque Around The Books concerts are free of charge and it’s wonderful to be working with our partner Explore York once again. We look forward to sharing the wonderful world of Early Music with new audiences from York communities.”

Explore York chief executive Jenny Layfield says: “This partnership with the NCEM is truly inspiring. There’s something wonderful about bringing such talented musicians into library spaces, offering our communities the chance to stumble upon a high-quality experience.

“I had the pleasure of attending one of the sessions organised by NCEM earlier this year and I absolutely loved it. If you have the opportunity to attend a performance at one of our Explore centres this December, I wholeheartedly recommend it!”