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Welcome
As the leaves turn and the evenings draw in, Hemsted Park comes alive once again with a new season of music, theatre, and inspiring live events. Now in our fourth year, we’re proud to continue growing our community of audiences and artists, bringing fresh, exciting programming to our beautiful venue all year round.
This season, we’re delighted to welcome some remarkable performances. The legendary BBC Big Band will light up the stage with their signature swing, performing soundtracks from James Bond films, and Ben Fogle joins us to share tales of adventure, resilience, and life beyond the beaten path. Families can look forward to the joy and laughter of Spot’s Birthday Party and The Nutcracker — perfect winter treats for little ones. Fans of vintage charm won’t want to miss the ever-stylish Pasadena Roof Orchestra, with their timeless take on the golden age of jazz. And in December, we’re thrilled to welcome back the hugely popular Faulty Towers Dining Experience — an unmissable evening of immersive comedy and chaotic cuisine.
Whether you’re discovering us for the first time or returning for another season, we hope you find something to love in our varied programme—from thought-provoking talks to uplifting music, classic theatre to family favourites.
We look forward to welcoming you to Hemsted Park for a season full of atmosphere, artistry, and unforgettable live experiences.
Thank you
We’re proud to continue our valued partnership with Burfields House, our official season partner at Hemsted Park. Their ongoing support enables us to keep delivering the exciting, high-quality performances our audiences know and love. We’re delighted to be working together once again this season.
Autumn/Winter 2025
Red Priest
Tim Rundle
Wine Tasting
Passadena Roof Orchestra
Harry the Piano
Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty
The Real Manhunter
Spot’s Birthday Party
London Concertante Four Seasons
Blazin’ Fiddles
The BBC Big Band Jess Gillam Lost in Music
The Nutcracker
Faulty Towers Dining Experience
Philharmonia Brass Orchestra at Christmas
National Theatre Live: Hamlet
The Nat King Cole Story
Ben Fogle
Attention All Shipping
Meet our Partners
Founded by David Cole, Burfields House Wealth Management has been based in Goudhurst, Kent, since 2002. However, David’s family has been looking after the finances of local clients for many years before that, starting with his grandfather in 1921 and followed by his mother. He is very proud to share the same family philosophy of handing financial success on to the next generation.
Now with a highly qualified advisory team of seven and a long-established team of dedicated support staff, we take pride in delivering the best for our valued clients, providing high-quality bespoke advice to individuals, families, trustees and businesses and helping them to plan their financial future and security.
Client focus lies at the heart of everything we do and we thrive on building positive long-term relationships where we make a difference and clients take value in our honest, straightforward approach.
One very important aspect of our business is the work we do to help improve the welfare of others throughout the world and within the local community, with members of the team regularly participating in a variety of events to support and raise money for good causes.
Founded by David Cole and David Gridley, the Tongole Foundation is the Burfields House charity working to support local communities surrounding the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve in Malawi, Africa. It focuses on the areas of education and wildlife conservation to improve the standards of living for as many people as possible.
All the Burfields House team are actively involved in Tongole, whether it is volunteering to travel and help with building better classrooms and facilities or organising and taking part in fundraising events – from local raffles and bake sales to director Robin Quirt’s mammoth 2023 trek to Everest Base Camp.
www.burfieldshousewm.co.uk
Tongole Foundation
About Hemsted Park
We are an oustanding performing arts venue in the heart of Kent, based on the stunning 250-acre site of the world-renowned Benenden School.
Hemsted Park’s performance spaces principally comprise the stunning new Centenary Hall, a 750 seater concert hall, and the separate beautiful purpose-built 290 seat, Benenden Theatre.
Other spaces include The Bonnie Yeung-Tsang Recital Hall, The Georgiadis Studio as well as the historic parkland that Hemsted Park is proud to call its home.
These multi-purpose spaces allow a wide range of events; with everything from standup comedy to full orchestras and from professional plays to children’s ballet shows, Hemsted Park is able to offer performances to suit all tastes.
As well as music, comedy, drama and dance productions, we are also available for hire for visiting schools, meetings, conferences, performances, training courses and many more corporate opportunities within our various spaces. This is alongside the various film and TV productions that are filmed here on site too.
Our venues effortlessly blend stunning historical surroundings with modern event spaces equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Bespoke catering and audio-visual services are available, as is accommodation for a select number of events.
For more information on hiring our facilities, please email info@hemstedpark.com or call 01580 236699
Red Priest
Friday 12 September
Centenary Hall 7:30pm
From £18.00
Recently described in the New York Times as ‘the wildly virtuosic little band’ – Red Priest has been at the cutting edge of baroque music performance for over a quarter of a century. Formed in 1997 by recorder virtuoso Piers Adams, together with violinist Julia Bishop, cellist Angela East and the late Julian Rhodes, harpsichord (a role now filled by David Wright) – and named after the original ‘red priest’ Antonio Vivaldi – the quartet has developed a truly unique style, combining high-energy performance, boundary crossing arrangements and theatrical presentation, delighting audiences across the globe. Although based in the UK, where they are long established favourites amongst promoters and public alike, Red Priest has crossed the Atlantic for over 50 coast-tocoast tours of America, Mexico, Cuba and Canada, as well as performing in prestigious festivals in almost every European country.
Running time: Approx 2 hours including interval
Timothy Rundle Oboe
Recital
Friday 19 September
Centenary Hall 1:30pm
£10.00
An expressive and elegant lunchtime concert for oboe and piano, featuring Timothy Rundle, principal oboe of the Philharmonia Orchestra, with celebrated pianist Caroline Palmer.
Timothy’s journey with the oboe began at just seven years old, when he was enchanted by its distinctive sound at a local concert. Guided early on by dedicated teachers, he went on to forge a distinguished career, including six years with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, before joining the Philharmonia Orchestra, where he became principal oboe in 2018. Beyond music, Timothy enjoys life in the Kent countryside with his family, tending to his vegetable garden and caring for his two cherished pigs.
Joining him is Caroline Palmer, Professor of Piano and Chamber Music at London’s Guildhall School of Music and Drama . Known for her sensitive artistry and extensive chamber music collaborations, Caroline has recorded works by Brahms, Fauré, and SaintSaëns, bringing rich experience and deep musicality to this recital.
The programme features a selection of Mozart opera arias, the lyrical Saint-Saëns Oboe Sonata, and the world premiere of a new Oboe Sonata by Richard Birchall, combining classical favourites with exciting new music.
Running time: Approx 45 minutes
Wine Tasting
Saturday 20 September
Terrace 6:00pm
£40.00
Join us for a special evening on 20 September at Hemsted Park, set within the beautiful grounds of Benenden School, for an exclusive wine tasting event in collaboration with one of England’s leading wineries.
Your ticket will include a welcome glass of fizz on arrival, a guided wine tasting experience, and a beautifully presented local grazing platter featuring regional produce.
This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy exceptional English wines in a stunning setting, with the option to purchase your favourites at special guest-only prices.
Includes music performance from Benenden School Music Scholars
Running time: Approx 2 hours
Pasadena Roof Orchestra
Celebrating the Music of the Roaring Twenties & ‘30s
Saturday 27 September
Centenary Hall 7:00pm
From £25.00
For one night only, take a step back into the glamorous era of The Great Gatsby, The Cotton Club, and Speakeasies, for a unique concert celebrating the music ‘The Roaring Twenties’ and 1930s!
Featuring a sparking collection of music and lovingly recreated orchestrations of classics from the likes of George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, and Irving Berlin - the concert showcases the very finest hot rhythms and sweet melodies of this iconic era.
So, pack up your troubles, come on and get happy, and experience an evening of superlative live music inspired the most celebrated of decades … alongside more than just a dash of wit and humour!
Running time: Approx 2 hours including interval
“An evening of rare musical entertainment”
The Financial Times
“For the PRO I have nothing but praise, they brilliantly evoked an array of 20’s and 30’s musical styles”
The Sunday Telegraph
Cabaret Dinner with Harry the Piano at Hemsted Park
Wednesday 8 October
Recital Hall 7:00pm
£30.00
Join us on Wednesday 8 October 2025 for an unforgettable evening of live cabaret-style entertainment with a delicious two-course dinner included.
Internationally acclaimed pianist Harry the Piano brings his extraordinary talent to Hemsted Park for a night of music, fun, and audience interaction.
Known for his breathtaking ability to play any song in any style, Harry has performed for HM The Queen and King Charles III, taken the stage at the Royal Albert Hall and the Moulin Rouge, and appeared with artists including Andrea Bocelli, David Bowie and Dame Shirley Bassey. He is a favourite on BBC Radio 2, 3 and 4, and the musical director for Alexander Armstrong’s UK tours and ITV specials.
This is not just a concert but a fully interactive musical experience. Audience members are invited to bring song requests, which Harry will transform into spontaneous performances across a range of styles from classical to jazz, pop and beyond.
Running time: Approx 2 hours including interval
“Spellbinding. Uncanny. Genius.”
- The Times, The Independent, The Guardian
“What fun it must be to be able to play the piano like that.”
- King Charles III
“His phenomenal talent, charm and wit are a delight.”
- Stephen Fry
Harry the Piano offers a night of music unlike any other. Advance booking is essential due to limited seating.
Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty
Adapted by Nick Lane from the work of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Composer – Tristan Parkes
Friday 10 October / Saturday 11 October
Theatre 7:00pm
From £22.50
“When you have one of the first brains of Europe up against you, and all the powers of darkness at his back, there are infinite possibilities”
London, 1901. As the British Empire wages war in the name of a Queen whose health is failing, a series of mysterious events reveals a crack in the high corridors of power. A crack that threatens to destabilise monarchy, government and Empire. And at its centre, controlling the flow of information and influence, a shadowy figure plans a final deadly move.
Drawn into the game and unsure who to trust, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson find themselves confronting figures from their past in a desperate race against time, aware that the most powerful person in the world could be in the pocket of one of the most corrupt. But just how much is Holmes willing to sacrifice as he faces ‘checkmate’?
A thrilling adventure based on the work of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty is a world premiere combining powerful performances, a haunting soundscape and innovative design for an exhilarating theatrical experience.
Suitable for ages 11+
Running time: Approx 1 hour, 50 minutes including interval
“One of the most innovative, audacious companies working in contemporary English theatre”
The Stage
“Plunges audiences into a whirlwind of mystery, intrigue, and sharp deductions” West End Best Friend
(On Blackeyed Theatre’s 2023 production, Sherlock Holmes: The Valley of Fear)
The Makings of a Murderer 2 The
Real Manhunter
Friday 17 October
Theatre 7:30pm
From £22.50
A Crime Thriller night at the Theatre!
Following sell-out shows nationwide, the UK’s top true crime theatre tour is back with a brand-new lineup!
Featuring Senior Investigating officer Colin Sutton, who caught serial killer Levi Bellfield and ‘Night Stalker’ Delroy Grant.
Join us for a chilling, thrilling night at the theatre as Colin, who was head of a Metropolitan Police murder squad tells us the stories of how he caught some of the UK’s most evil murderers.
In this all-new show, Colin; who the ITV drama series ‘Manhunt,’ played by Martin Clunes, is based on, will talk you through his remarkable career and what it is like to chase and catch a serial killer in a unique and one-off night at the theatre - for true crime fans and theatre goers alike.
Running time: Approx 2 hours including interval
AGES 18 AND OVER ONLY
Spot’s Birthday Party
Thursday 23 October
Theatre 2:00pm
From £10.00
Friday 24 October
Theatre 11:00am & 2:00pm
EVERY TICKET COMES WITH A FREE PARTY HAT AND MEET AND GREET WITH SPOT AFTER THE SHOW
Make memories with the whole family, at this very special birthday party!
Join Spot and his friends for this delightful and heartwarming show, to sing, dance and wish Spot a very Happy Birthday!
Based on the beloved Eric Hill classic Happy Birthday Spot, this playful and engaging production brings the nostalgia of Spot to life on stage, capturing imaginations and creating lasting memories for children and grown-ups alike.
Spend the day with Spot, Steve the Monkey, Tom the Crocodile, Helen the Hippo and Sally and Sam, Spot’s parents as they prepare for the best birthday party ever! Don’t miss this perfect introduction to theatre for little ones – full of charm, love, and the magic of Spot
Suitable for ages 2+
Running time: Approx 5o minutes
Located on the picturesque East Sussex coastline surrounded by miles of glorious countryside, Rye Harbour is the perfect spot for holiday home ownership. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility to get away from it all whenever the mood takes you and make the most of your leisure time.
All to enjoy at Rye Harbour
• Peaceful & tranquil location
• Brand new leisure complex with spa pool, steam room and gym
• Brand new bar & restaurant
• Ideal base for exploring the local area
Four Seasons & Lark Ascending by Candlelight
Thursday 30 October
Centenary Hall 7:00pm
From £32.00
London Concertante are delighted to announce the return of their sell-out Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and The Lark Ascending by Candlelight concert series.
Experience astounding music by one of classical music’s greatest composers performed by some of the country’s best classical musicians all presented by stunning candlelight.
Bathe in soaring crescendos and melodic strings as our live ensemble conjures Vivaldi’s exceptional craft, imagination, and quality, showcasing his pioneering techniques and his profound impact on Baroque music. This concert series promises to bring the iconic ‘Four Seasons’ to life in an extraordinary musical journey through nature’s beauty, strength and grace.
Running time: Approx 1 hour, 50 minutes including interval
PROGRAMME
Mozart – Marriage of Figaro Overture
Vivaldi – The Four Seasons Vaughan Williams – The Lark Ascending
Blazin’ Fiddles
Sunday 9 November Theatre 7:00pm
From £20.00
Take the finest exponents of their native Scottish fiddle styles, the finest backing in folk music, and some of the Highlands and Islands’ famed warmth and craic… distil over over 25 years, and you get Blazin’ Fiddles!
One of the most lauded and bestloved acts of the Scottish music scene, from the moment the multi award-winning Blazers take the stage to whisk you on a thrilling musical journey, you’re in the finest of company. The mastery of fiddle virtuosos, Jenna Reid (Shetland), Kristan Harvey (Orkney) and Rua Macmillan (Highlands), grounded by the second to none, driving accompaniment of Angus Lyon (piano) and Anna Massie (guitar), will leave you reeling.
For over a quarter of a century, no other band has quite captured Scottish fiddle music’s variety, energy and sensitivity like Blazin’ Fiddles. Atop many musical twists and turns, the group’s quicksilver playing is matched by lightning sharp humour and uproarious stories from their many tunes and travels, Whatever the hallwhether of the Royal Albert or highland village variety - they’ll turn it into the liveliest and warmest of hootenannies.
Running time: Approx 2 hours, 20 minutes including interval
Free Concerts for All
Hemsted Park is once again delighted to invite you to attend the following free events and concerts which are part of the Benenden School calendar
Friday 3 October | 7:00-8:00pm ‘Hallelujah’: Handel and the exceptional singing of the orphans and charity-school girls of Georgian London
A lecture given by Dr Geoffrey Webber with musical illustrations from Benenden Chapel Choir
Friday 10 October | 1:30-2:15pm Junior Music Scholars’ Concert
Friday 07 November | 1:30-2:15pm
Professional Lunchtime Concert: Clara Biss (violin) and Sam Haywood (piano)
Tuesday 12 November | 7:00-8:15pm Senior Music Scholars’ Concert
Friday 27 February | 7:30-8:30pm Benenden Symphony Orchestra’s Winter Concert
The Wealden Hub Music Scholars
Bringing Musical Excellence to Our Community
Enquiries about any of the free events should be directed to music@benenden.school
Book seats at www.hemstedpark.com
We are excited to introduce The Wealden Hub Music Scholars, a new initiative in partnership with Hemsted Park. We are keen to support musically talented students (Year 4 and upwards) in our local area, providing them with valuable opportunities to engage in live musical performance.
Through the Music Scholars programme, participants will receive free admission to selected Hemsted Park events and have the chance to take part in musical events at Benenden School.
For more details contact Nick Rendall , Director of Partnerships, Benenden School (nmr@benenden.school)
The BBC Big Band
The Music of James Bond ... and Beyond
Saturday 22 November
Centenary Hall 7:30pm
From £27.00
The internationally acclaimed BBC Big Band are joined by the incredible vocal talents of their special guest singers, Emer McParland and Iain Mackenzie, for a unique musical celebration of perhaps the world’s most iconic movie Franchise: James Bond.
This very special concert explores the best of Bond. Expect numbers ranging from Goldfinger and Thunderball, through to Nobody Does it Better and Live & Let Die, as well as most recent themes from Skyfall, and No Time to Die - all specially arranged for Big Band, and performed in the orchestra’s own, inimitable style!
Alongside the music of Bond, the orchestra will also pay homage to the wider ‘spy’ film genre, including music from the likes of ‘ Mission: Impossible ’ … as well as a few surprises along the way!
So, dust-off your tuxedo, pour yourself a Martini (shaken, not stirred - of course!), and join us for a world-class evening of music, celebrating the music of James Bond … and beyond.
Running time: Approx 2 hours including interval
“I told my wife that for my next birthday I want this band as a gift!”
Lalo Schifrin (composer of the ‘Mission: Impossible’ theme)
“World-class musicians … a brilliant musical force.”
The Telegraph
Jess Gillam
Thursday 11 December
Centenary Hall 7:30pm
From £28.00
This is the saxophone as you might never have heard it before.
In this festive evening, Jess Gillam celebrates the dynamism, diversity and emotional power of one of the world’s most versatile instruments, throwing in a few Christmas classical and wintery delights. This is a programme that, although rooted in classical music, offers an expansive and explosive exploration of a massive range of music - from the groove of Michael Nyman and Corelli to barnstorming tunes by the Danish String Quartet and Barbara Thompson to the soaring beauty of festive favourites like Coventry Carol, Silent Night, Ella Fitzgerald’s The Secret of Christmas and some wassailing for good measure.
On paper, a saxophone playing Bach to Bowie and Nyman to Ellington backed up by a string quartet, piano, bass and percussion might sound pretty weird. But with her 7-piece band, her treasured soprano and alto bronze saxophones and her passion for connecting to audiences, Jess Gillam meticulously crafts a programme that pulls on the common threads found in music spanning centuries to deliver a high octane, enchanting evening that will leave ready for the festive season beaming from ear to ear.
Running time: Approx 1 hour, 45 minutes including interval
Lost in Music
One Night at the Disco
Friday 12 December Centenary Hall 7:30pm
From £28.00
LOST IN MUSIC – The Original Disco Show!
Embark on an electrifying journey through the sensational 70s. Our world class band and dazzling vocals are set to transport you straight to the heart of disco fever.
Get ready to re-live timeless hits from icons like Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, Earth, Wind & Fire, Sister Sledge and Chic.
Dress to impress in your most fabulous disco attire as we pay homage to the golden age of disco. From the irresistible beats of “Never Can Say Goodbye” to the pulsating rhythm of “Boogie Wonderland,” we’ve got an unforgettable lineup that’ll keep you grooving all night long.
Don’t miss out on the feel-good show of the year –join us, lose yourself in the music, and leave your worries behind!
“Party the night away . . . you’ll love it.”
BBC Radio Tees
“. . . the energy is palpable, the vocals impeccable and the party atmosphere contagious.”
London Theatre Reviews
“. . . energetic. . . hugely enjoyable for the whole audience, many of whom, like me, could not have remembered the 1970s.”
London Theatre 1
Running time: 2 hours, 30 minutes including interval
This is a tribute show and is in no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/ management companies or similar shows.
The International Immersive Comedy Sensation
Faulty Towers
The Dining Experience
Saturday 13 /Sunday 14 December
Centenary Hall 7:00pm
£70.00
Basil, Manuel and Sybil are in town—and they’re bringing a healthy dose of mayhem to your door. Fully immersive, highly interactive and completely original, this is the show where anything can and usually does happen. With 70% of the show improvised, it’s never the same twice. Expect two hours of comedy, a 70s-inspired three course meal, and universal acclaim the world over. This critically acclaimed experience guarantees chaos, laughter, and an unforgettable night out.
Faulty Towers The Dining Experience proudly carries the torch for this iconic British comedy, offering fans a chance to celebrate its legacy with laughter, spontaneity, and a side of chaos. Accept no imitations – book your tickets to this critically acclaimed immersive experience today.
Event finishes approx 9:00pm
The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker
Saturday 13 December Theatre 1:00pm & 3:00pm From £22.00
The Let’s All Dance Ballet Company is delighted to present their dazzling festive favourite for the whole family!
With stunning dancers, Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous score, beautiful costumes and crystal clear storytelling, this is a Christmas show not to be missed!
The Nutcracker is perfect for children of all ages whether this is their first trip to the theatre or they are regular visitors. Join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they journey to the magical land of sweets, meet King Rat and the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy, and lose yourself in the glorious world of live dance.
The Let’s All Dance Ballet company creates high quality, accessible and fun productions for children and families. Their narrative and character led shows are easy to understand, exciting and inspiring.
After every performance children can have their photo taken with the dancers for the ultimate Christmas experience and special memories.
SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES especially children (inc. those with special needs)
Photo opportunity with dancers on stage after every performance! Running time: Approx 52 minutess
The Bull at Benenden
17th Century Village Pub. Est 1608
Serving delicious pub grub, pies, daily specials, local wines, beers & ciders. Please call us to arrange your pre-theatre supper, or just pop in for a drink, before or after the show. Cheers! Pre-theatre suppers must be booked in advance. Thank you. 01580 240 054 . @bullbenenden . thebullatbenenden.co.uk
Philharmonia Brass Orchestra at Christmas
Friday 19 December Centenary Hall 7:00pm From £22.00
Step inside into the warmth and join the Philharmonia Orchestra’s brass ensemble for an evening of seasonal music.
Like mulled wine and mince pies, Christmastime and brass music go hand in hand. Enjoy a programme curated and introduced by Philharmonia trombonist Philip White, including arrangements of Christmas songs, carols, seasonal classics and more. Join our fantastic brass players – with a bit of help from
our percussionists – as they celebrate the season and show us everything their instruments can do.
Whether you’re a lover of Christmas or a self-proclaimed Scrooge, we guarantee you’ll leave this concert feeling a little more festive.
Running time: Approx 2 hours including interval
by William Shakespeare
A production from
Hamlet
by William Shakespeare directed by Robert Hastie
Sunday 25 January Theatre 3:00pm From £13.00
Olivier Award-winner Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi) is Hamlet in this fearless, contemporary take on Shakespeare’s famous tragedy.
Trapped between duty and doubt, surrounded by power and privilege, young Prince Hamlet dares to ask the ultimate question –you know the one.
National Theatre Deputy Artistic Director, Robert Hastie (Standing at the Sky’s Edge, Operation Mincemeat) directs this sharp, stylish and darkly funny reimagining.
Running time: Approx 3 hours including interval
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King for a Day: The Nat King Cole Story… with Strings
Friday 13 February
Centenary Hall 7:30pm From £25.00
Featuring world-class live music, alongside narration and projected archive images, join us as we pay tribute to one of greatest vocalists and entertainers of the Twentieth Century: Nat King Cole.
Led by acclaimed vocalist, Atila , alongside a world-class group of musicians augmented by string section, this thoughtful and entertaining new show takes a fresh look at the life and work of the timeless Nat King Cole.
The concert will feature a sparkling collection of Nat’s most famous songs, such as Nature Boy, Unforgettable, Mona Lisa, L-O-V-E and When I Fall in Love, alongside stylish reworkings of his lesser-known gems – making it a unique evening of music celebrating one of music’s true icons!
Running time: Approx 2 hours including interval
Nigel McIntyre & Gareth Watson Presents
Ben Fogle: Wild UK Tour 2026
Monday 23 February
Centenary Hall 7:30pm
£30.00
Ben Fogle’s theatre show WILD brings to life on stage, stories and tales of hope, possibility, and positivity. From his extraordinary encounters with the human and natural world; the wilderness of Northern Sweden to the jungles of Honduras; the hostile extreme environments of Chernobyl to the mountains of Nepal; Ben will take you on a journey with inspiring and uplifting tales of self-discovery, that will leave you enchanted, enlightened, and entertained.
In this inspiring show full of hope, simplicity, and harmony, WILD is a hair-raising, uplifting and wildly entertaining show that tells the extraordinary true stories of Ben’s amazing encounters with people and animals, and how they changed his life... and the discovery of helping you find your Ocean of Possibility.
Running time: Approx 2 hours including interval
“Adventures, expeditions, and journeys have helped shape and mould me. They have strengthened me emotionally, physically, and mentally and armed me with the skills for life.”
Ben Fogle
Attention All Shipping
A celebration of the Shipping Forecast with Charlie Connelly
Thursday 26 February
Theatre 7:30pm
From £22.50
‘Dogger, Fisher, German Bight’: Charlie Connelly brings the shipping forecast vividly to life in this hilarious and moving celebration of an iconic cultural institution. Delve into the broadcast’s remarkable history, unlock its beguiling mysteries, explore its wide cultural impact and hear riproaring stories of Charlie’s own adventures among the sea areas, guaranteeing the shipping forecast will never sound the same again.
Running time: Approx 2 hours including interval
“I can thoroughly recommend an evening spent in the company of the very funny and very lovely Charlie Connelly whose knowledge of what I call ‘the ships’ is excellent. Sou’westers optional.”
Corrie Corfield, BBC Radio 4
Useful Information
Location
All of our event spaces at Hemsted Park are nestled in the heart of Kent, within the 250 acres of the beautiful Benenden School site. Surrounded by stunning countryside, we offer a unique setting for arts and performance — and we’re also within easy reach of London, with the capital less than an hour away by train from nearby Staplehurst Station. We are located in a village that observes a dark skies policy, so our site can be quite dark on winter evenings. While there will be some lighting and marshals to guide you, you may find it helpful to bring a torch.
We are a no-smoking or vaping site.
Address
Hemsted Park, Benenden School, Cranbrook Road, Kent, TN17 4AA
Parking
We have free on-site parking for audiences. On arrival at Benenden School, please follow the main drive where parking marshals will direct you to available spaces. Parking is spread across the site and may require a short walk to the venue.
Wherever possible, we prioritise our most accessible parking for those who need it. If you have mobility issues and require accessible parking, please speak to a marshal on arrival.
Bars & Hospitality
A bar is available at all venues, opening one hour before each performance. It offers a varied selection of snacks as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic refreshments.
Please note:
We are a nut-free site.
Hemsted Park operates as a card-only venue.
We kindly ask that no hot food or takeaway items are brought onto the premises.
Access
All of our venues have step-free access, accessible parking, and a unisex accessible toilet.
Hemsted Park proudly supports an Access Membership Scheme, offering free companion tickets for individuals with health conditions or disabilities who require a carer to attend with them.
To register, please contact: info@hemstedpark.com
KEY
A Arrival from Benenden Village
B Exit | C Centenary Hall & Recital Hall
D Theatre P Parking
| info@hemstedpark.com
