JAN | FEB | MAR | APR 2025
Welcome
As we step into a New Year, we embrace the promise of fresh opportunities, renewal, and growth. Our winter/spring season reflects this spirit, offering an inspiring programme that celebrates creativity and connection. This year, we’re excited to bring more dance to the arts centre, deepen collaborations with our community, and present a rich and diverse offer of events across all art forms. There are truly all the arts for everyone available - come and be part of it. - Claire Tudge, Director
Help us to provide
All the Arts for Everyone
As a charity, we rely on the generosity of Supporters like you to keep our programmes thriving and our doors open.
There are many ways you can support the Bridport Arts Centre and Allsop Gallery.
To become a supporter or make a one off donation please visit: www.bridport-arts.com/supporter
- Become a BAC Supporter
Join our community of BAC Supporters, a group of individuals committed to helping Bridport Arts Centre remain a vibrant hub of creativity. You’ll enjoy exclusive perks, invitations to special events, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re helping grow the cultural landscape of Bridport.
- Make a one-off donation
Every contribution, no matter the size, directly supports exhibitions, workshops, opportunities for emerging creatives and events that enrich our community.
- Legacy Giving
By leaving a gift in your will, you can make a lasting impact on what comes next. If Bridport Arts Centre has brought joy or inspiration to your life, you have the power to help us continue to nurture creativity and community for future generations.
To find out more about Legacy Giving please contact BAC Director Claire Tudge at Claire@ bridport-arts.com or 01308 424 204
Trustee top picks..
“What an honour to be bringing Three Little Pigs by the brilliant Stuff and Nonsense to Bridport audiences. This home-grown theatre company is a local treasure, and their work has to be seen to be believed, don’t miss out!” - Amanda Ellington
“I can’t wait to see the brilliant rap-poet and musician Samantics in April, who in their own words is ‘better to be seen live than to be googled’ - Rowan Hedley
Our film programme has lots to offer this season and I’m so pleased we’ll be showing daytime screenings of classic films. The 1937 Fred and Ginger classic Shall we Dance is a great place to start. - Chris Pike
Fri 7th 7:30pm MUSIC SOUND OF THE SIRENS
Sat 8th 7:30pm THEATRE CALL YOURSELF AN IRISHMAN?!
Tue 11th 7:30pm SPOKEN WORD LUCY CAVENDISH | HOW TO HAVE EXTRAORDINARY RELATIONSHIPS
- 2 adults Thu 13th 11am FILM SHALL WE DANCE? (1937) (U)
£5, £4 Thu 13th 7pm FILM THE RED SHOES (1948) (U)
Sat 1st 11am & 2pm FAMILY | THEATRE THE THREE LITTLE PIGS | STUFF AND NONSENSE THEATRE
Thu 6th 7:30pm MUSIC CHUBE
Fri 7th 7:30pm FILM BLUE NOTE RECORDS | BEYOND THE NOTES (2018) (15) | Screening as part of Bridport's Birth of The Cool
Thu 13th 7:30pm FILM I'M NO ANGEL (1933) (A)
£5, £4 Thu 6th 7:30pm FILM MY FAVOURITE CAKE (2024) (12A)
MARCH JANUARY
3rd 11am FILM I KNOW WHERE I'M GOING! (1945) (PG)
Allsop Gallery
RAYMOND
GRAY 1945 - 2024 |
CELEBRATING A LIFE THROUGH ART
Friday 17th January to Saturday 25th
January 2025
For one week only, this retrospective exhibition celebrates the life and work of local artist, teacher and antiquarian, Bridport based Raymond Gray, who passed away in July 2024.
Join us for this unique opportunity to explore his remarkable body of work, showcasing his artistic journey, deep passion for the arts, and reflecting on the lasting impact he made on countless students and the local community.
The prize worth writing for!
ALLSOP GALLERY OPENING HOURS 10am -4pm
Tuesday - Saturday | Free Entry
TOM HALLIFAX | LOST PROPERTY
Saturday 29th March to Saturday 12th April 2025
A retrospective exhibition.
Raising funds for Bridport Arts Centre
DORSET PAVILION |
PRIDE IN DORSET’S TRADITIONS, HISTORIES, DEEP TIME AND VISCERAL LAND
Saturday 8th February – Saturday 15th March 2025
The Dorset Pavilion returns from its successful debut in Venice to present a visceral, raw and playful exhibition that celebrates the parish-sized thinking that is both resurgent and under threat.
Presenting an earthy mix of contemporary artworks from 25 artists, this exhibition highlights Dorset’s contribution to the broader art world while challenging conventional expectations of regional art by offering something powerful, tactile, and evocative. It speaks to deep time; the land; the political; the literary; and the historical.
This exhibition is the final event of Dorset 24 – Town of Culture, a celebration of people, place and culture. Links will be made to Weymouth and Portland, the 2025 Dorset Town of Culture, through an exploration of the political and protest. County of Culture is an initiative created by Arts Development Company. Bridport 2024 was funded by Dorset Council with match funding from Bridport Town Council.
Thursday 23rd January | 7pm - 9pm
Hosted by Bridport Arts Centre Director Claire Tudge, this is a space for anybody involved in arts and culture in Bridport to come together and build a community of support, share ideas and find collaborators. Future dates this season include 27th February, 27th March and 17th April.
American soprano Angel Blue headlines as the Ethiopian princess torn between love and country in a new production of Verdi’s Aida that brings audiences inside the towering pyramids and gilded tombs of ancient Egypt with intricate projections and dazzling animations. MET OPERA | AIDA (LIVE)
Saturday 25th January | 5:30pm
Thursday 6th February | 7:30pm
Mahin has lived alone in Tehran since her husband’s death and her daughter’s departure for Europe, until an afternoon tea with friends leads her to break her solitary routine and revitalize her love life. But as she opens herself up to new romance, what begins as an unexpected encounter quickly evolves into an unpredictable, unforgettable evening.
Friday 7th February | 7:30pm
This Exeter based acoustic singer-songwriting duo have spent a decade honing their craft. Cementing themselves as firm favourites on the west country scene as well as nationally, and internationally too. Their fast-growing fan-base is testament to the pair’s prowess as songwriters and musicians.
MY FAVOURITE CAKE (2024) (12A) FILM
Saturday 8th February | 7:30pm
You are born in one country, your parents come from a different one. What if two countries share a complex history of conquest and subjugation, resistance and rebellion? They happen to be neighbours across the Irish Sea but have grown to a mutual understanding and coexistence so how do you, born and raised in one, but with ties to the other, define yourself?
Tuesday 11th February | 7:30pm
Help is at hand! Lucy is a writer, therapist, awardwinning podcaster and top 15 Amazon best selling book author. She’s here to talk about the seven ways to improve relationships and talk about two things everyone wants to talk about but are too afraid to ask, Sex and Money. Guaranteed to be informative, funny, moving and transformational...
Thursday 13th February | 11am
Petrov (Fred Astaire), a Russian ballet dancer, and musical comedy star Linda Keene (Ginger Rogers) are thrust into a marriage of convenience - she wants the shotgun wedding to be followed by an even quicker divorce, so that she can marry the man she really loves and retire from the stage. Not surprisingly, the path to true love takes a few unplanned diversions.
Thursday 13th February | 7:30pm
Vicky (Moira Shearer), an aspiring ballerina, is torn between her dedication to dance and her desire to love. After falling for a young composer, she must choose to pursue either her art or her romance, a decision that carries serious consequences. Screened alongside short film Ama, a silent, stunning underwater dance of strength and courage.
CONCERTS IN THE WEST | ENSEMBLE HESPERI MUSIC
Friday 14th February | 11.30am
A dynamic and innovative London-based period ensemble with a reputation for showcasing Baroque Music. Having met at the Royal College of Music in London, the varied talents of each member of the ensemble combine to present joyful and educational performances. Their aim is to embody the true spontaneity of chamber music.
THE BIG BINGO SHOW TAKE PART | COMEDY
Friday 14th February | 7:30pm
A warm, hilarious and irreverent Valentine’s entertainment for couples, singles and swingletons. Hirsute hostess Timberlina and diminutive Dutch DJ Auntie Maureen present this uniquely joyous show. A bingo show like no other - a finely-tuned, fun-packed fantasia where everyone is a winner...
THE MENOPAUSE OF SOUND | DAYTIME DJ MUSIC
Saturday 15th February | 4:30pm
Get ready to dance, laugh, and let loose! Menopause of Sound is the ultimate day disco designed for all women over 30 embracing life’s next chapter. Wear what you love, dance like no one’s watching, and reconnect with your vibrant, unapologetic self. With uplifting tunes, a feel-good atmosphere, and a sisterhood of support, this is your time to shine
DJ CHIMAN-101 | MIX & MATCH - A NIGHT OF VISION AND SOUND MUSIC
Saturday 15th February | 8:30pm - 11:30pm
This Bridport based DJ, MC and producer’s approach to music has allowed him to effortlessly weave urban and alternative genres together with authenticity and passion which always guarantees a memorable experience, as well as getting you on the dancefloor. DJing at BAC las year at “Around the World in 80 beats,” Chiman-101 is back for what promises to be another amazing night of music.
Thursday 20th February | 7:30pm
Mina (12) gets her world turned upside down when the famous dancer Edvin moves to her town. She falls head over heels in love, and when he invites the local kids to audition for a new dance crew, Mina sees her chance and signs up. Intoxicated by love she throws herself into the excitement. But there´s one essential thing she has forgotten: She can´t dance!
Friday 21st February | 7:30pm
A double bill from Excessive Human Collective’s artistic director Imogen Reeve navagating technology, gender, and the apocalypse. This is a mesmerising dance theatre production, witness the delicate dance between hope and despair, as the threads of the past unravel, inviting us to ponder the potential of a transformed future.
MIRANDA SYKES AND JIM CAUSLEY | THE LAST OF THE SINGER’ TOUR MUSIC
Saturday 22nd February | 7:30pm
Two of the UK’s most iconic voices have finally combined Miranda Sykes and Jim Causley. “The Last Of The Singers” is a collection of traditional, self penned and contemporary songs bringing their magical voices together.
“Miranda Sykes has spent so much time working with Show Of Hands its easy to forget what a good solo performer she is... Gorgeous and very compelling stuff”
COMRADES (1986) (15) | Screening as part of The Dorset Pavilion Exhibition FILM
Tuesday 25th February
The story of the Tolpuddle Martyrs. It’s 1834 in the farming town of Tolpuddle. Heartless landowner James Frampton forces his impoverished labourers to work under harsh conditions. When their already meagre wages are further reduced, in the dead of night, a group of labourers swear allegiance to a new union resulted in be arrested, sentenced and transported to Australia for seven years.
THE THREE LITTLE PIGS | STUFF AND NONSENSE THEATRE FAMILY
Saturday 1st March | 11am & 2pm
There’s a wolf coming... but for now, the Three Little Pigs have tricked him onto a bus. If he catches them, he’ll huff and he’ll puff and we all know how that ends... Join three problem-solving pigs and help them to save their bacon in a raucous, high-octane family show that will make you howl! Be blown away by this joyful retelling of a classic tale. Suitable for all the family.
Thursday 6th March | 7:30pm
This Cardiff fusion band features Ben Creighton Griffiths on Electric Harp and Keys, Ashley John Long on Bass, and Jon Bradford-Jones on Drums. Drawing their inspiration from a wide variety of artists and genres they aim to write electro acoustic music that pushes the boundaries of their instruments creating a totally unique blend of Fusion.
BLUE NOTE RECORDS | BEYOND THE NOTES (2018) (15) FILM
I’M NO ANGEL (1933) (A)
Saturday 7th March | 7:30pm
Since 1939, this iconic American jazz record label has encouraged Blue Note artists to push creative boundaries in search of uncompromising expressions. Through recording sessions, rare archive and conversations with iconic Blue Note artists, the film reveals an intimate perspective of a legacy that continues to be vital in today’s political climate.
Thursday 13th March | 11am
Seductive and emotionally guarded Tira (Mae West) is the much-adored circus performer whose newest suitor is married New York City socialite Kirk (Kent Taylor). Kirk’s cousin (Cary Grant), tries to convince Tira to end the affair. After falling for one another, love and happiness risk taking her from the stage, and her boss plots to break off the engagement and shackle her to the circus forever.
WOMEN BEHIND THE WHEEL (2022) (12A) FILM
Thursday 13th March | 7:30pm
To celebrate international women’s day on the 8th, Two women. One epic journey. Countless stories that deserve to be heard. Cat and Hannah undertake a road trip across Central Asia on a mission to uncover women’s stories in a region miles from their own. But along the journey, they’re forced to challenge the assumptions they set out with.
Friday 14th March | 11.30am
Scottish pianist Alasdair Beatson is renowned as a sincere musician and intrepid programmer. He champions a wide repertoire on both modern and historical instruments with particular areas of interest: classical, early romantic and French music (especially Fauré), alongside the music of today’s composers.
SPOKEN WORD | COMEDY
Friday 14th March | 7:30pm
Stand-up poet, comedian and broadcaster, armchair revolutionary and walking shortbread tin, Elvis McGonagall sits and scribbles satirical verse whilst drinking malt whisky and listening to Johnny Cash.
“A sharp and savvy political commentator who pulls no punches with searing wit, astute observation and a thrilling gift for hyperbole... A deceptively intelligent commentary on modern life that is inclusive, accessible and utterly hilarious’’
Saturday 15th March | 5pm
Norwegian soprano Lise Davidsen returns as Leonore, the faithful wife who risks everything to save her husband from the clutches of tyranny in Beethoven’s Fidelio. Completing the distinguished cast is British tenor David Butt Philip as the political prisoner Florestan and Polish bass-baritone Tomasz Konieczny as the villainous Don Pizarro.
Caprani, Ed Fest Mag
ELVIS MCGONAGALL
I HAVE A BRUISE | WOMENEWER DANCE | THEATRE
Friday 21st March | 7:30pm
I have a bruise is WomanEwer‘s live performance based on real life stories, performed by five professional female dancers who are all survivors of sexual abuse. The work addresses sensitive issues that can be challenging, and at the same time it celebrates womanhood, survival and strength, advocating for women to have their own voice.
Saturday 22nd March | 7pm
Join us once again for Bridport’s ultimate film quiz night! Whether you’re a cinephile, a casual movie lover, or a quiz enthusiast, this event is for everyone - and it’s all for a great cause. Get ready for themed rounds, surprise challenges, and the chance to win amazing prizes. Stay tuned for more details - follow us on social media for updates!
EXHIBITION ON SCREEN | DAWN OF IMPRESSIONISM: PARIS 1874 FILM
Tuesday 25th March | 7:30pm
The Impressionists are the most popular group in art history but to begin with, they were scorned, penniless outsiders. 1874 was the year that changed everything; the first Impressionists. What led to that first ground breaking show 150 years ago? The spectacular Musée d’Orsay exhibition brings fresh eyes to this extraordinary tale of passion and rebel-lion.
THEATRE | COMEDY
Wednesday 26th March | 7:30pm
When teachers Rich, Kris and Zara discover a bag of drugs in school lost property, they should report this straight away. But as the school faces imminent closure, is there another way to deal with the bag? This brilliant new dark comedy looks at what happens when worlds collide, and lines of responsibility get blurred. Age 16+
Sunday 30th March | 8pm
Exploring the use of synth as the bass instrument, the Nowhere Ensemble create an ethereal landscape that merges organ-esque lows with the ever-changing face of electronic culture. Ben will be joined by drummer Joe Taylor, saxophonists Sophie Stockham and Matthew Bicknell and guitarist Josh Lamdin to evoke an alien landscape that dares to stand alone amongst synth-touched Jazz groups of today.
Wednesday 2nd April | 7:30pm
We are excited for the return of the legends of Irish music and song, The Fureys. Renowned for hit songs such as ‘When You Were Sweet Sixteen’, ‘The Green Fields of France’ and ‘Red Rose Café’ to name a few. We can’t wait to welcome back this phenomenal band after last year’s sell out success.
Thursday 3rd April | 11am
Plucky Englishwoman Joan Webster (Wendy Hiller) travels to the remote Scottish Hebrides in order to marry a wealthy industrialist. Trapped by inclement weather on the Isle of Mull and unable to reach her destination, she finds herself charmed by the no-nonsense islanders around and becomes attracted to naval officer Torquil who holds a secret that may change her life forever.
A CRACK IN THE MOUNTAIN (2022) (12A) FILM
Thursday 3rd April | 7:30pm
The world’s largest cave, discovered in 1990 and located in Vietnam, it’s often described as a lost world with its own lake, jungle and even a unique weather system. This documentary investigates the challenges of modern day exploration, environmental conservation & sustainability, and the perils of operating as an activist in a country where freedom of speech is severely curtailed.
Friday 4th April | 7:30pm
A gig theatre journey. For the curious. And the curiouser. This remarkable collision of live music, text and rich visual imagery takes the audience into the world of Alice in Wonderland but through a very different lens. This is a riff, a homage and a fascinating audio adventure down the rabbit hole, with a four-piece band of multi-instrumentalist performers.
CATCH YOUR BREATH | THE SECRET LIFE OF A SLEEPLESS ANAESTHETIST COMEDY
Saturday 5th April | 8pm
NHS anaesthetist, comedian and author Ed Patrick injects Bridport with a gut-punch hilarious show about becoming a junior doctor, the NHS, the pitfalls of modern medicine and the power of questioning it. There’s plenty of laughing gas to go round. As seen on Channel 4, Have I Got News For You and heard on BBC Radio 2. Age guidance 16+
Thursday 10th April | 7:30pm
Small town sheriff Will Teasle (Brian Dennehy) detains a vagrant drifter for resisting arrest but little does he realise that he has set in motion a series of events that bring mayhem and bloody reckoning to his community. The shabby vagrant is in fact former Green Beret John Rambo (Sylvester Stallone), a hero of the Vietnam War who has returned home to find America no longer wants him.
CONCERTS IN THE WEST | MIKELEIZ-ZUCCHI DUO |
Friday 11th April | 11:30am
This London–based ensemble combines Canadian saxophonist David Zucchi and Spanish accordionist Iñigo Mikeleiz-Berrade. The repertoire spans everything from re-imagined traditional works to modern repertoire and improvisation, all vividly rendered by the unique combination of saxophone and accordion.
SAMANTICS & NICK PARKER | THE BROMANCE
. WHAT’S NEXT? MUSIC
Friday 18th April | 7:30pm
Samantics is joined by Nick Parker to continue their blossoming relationship with a dual-headline show here at the BAC. Using a trolley full of sounds, ukulele, bass, beats, piano, harmonies, blips and bloops and wobbly wobbs, all brought together with loop station and sampler to create a hot pot of powerful, noisy poetry. It’s not quite hip-hop, but it’s not quite not.
STORIES IN THE DUST FAMILY | THEATRE
Saturday 19th April | 2pm
The sun beats down on two travellers, journeying across a mysterious land in a contraption they’ve built themselves. They sing, play games, and tell stories inspired by a collection of precious things they’ve gathered from a time gone by. With live music and puppetry, this funny, heartfelt and hopeful eco-fable takes you to another world.
Wednesday 23rd - Sunday 28th April
We are so excited to announce that Bridport’s From Page To Screen Film Festival is back for another year. For more information keep an eye out on our social media platforms and the Bridport Arts Centre website at www.bridport-arts.com/fpts.
SPOKEN WORD | TAKE PART
Monday 28th April | 7pm
Flash Fiction is the art of the teeny tiny story where thrilling things can happen in just 250 words. It’s one of the categories in the Bridport Prize international creative writing competition based here at BAC. Come and join us for a fun evening and hear talented writers telling tiny tales or register to take part by contacting Moira@bridport-arts.com.
TO MET OPERAS AND INDIE RELEASES
Sat 25th January | MET OPERA : AIDA | 5:30pm
Thu 6th February | MY FAVOURITE CAKE | 7:30pm
Thu 13th February | SHALL WE DANCE | 11am
Thu 13th February | THE RED SHOES double bill with short film AMA | 7pm
Thu 20th February | DANCING QUEEN | 7:30pm
Tue 27th February | COMRADES | Screening as part of The Dorset Pavilion Exhibition | 7pm
Fri 7th March | BLUE NOTE RECORDS | BEYOND THE NOTES | 7:30pm
Fri 13th March | I’M NO ANGEL (1933) (A) | 11am
Thu 13th March | WOMEN BEHIND THE WHEEL | 7:30pm
Sat 15th March | MET OPERA : FIDELIO | 7:30pm
Tue 25th March | DAWN OF IMPRESSIONISM: PARIS, 1874 | 7:30pm
Thu 3rd April | I KNOW WHERE I’M GOING! | 11am
Thu 3rd April | A CRACK IN THE MOUNTAIN | 7:30pm
Thu 10th April | FIRST BLOOD | A From Page To Screen Fringe Event | 7:30pm
New for 2025, Bridport Arts Centre will be hosting a once a month daytime film, showcasing Cult Classics and Golden Age of Hollywood Greats. Whether you want to rewatch a much-loved favourite or discover something new, join us and experience the pleasure of communal viewing and classic cinema.
BRIDPORT’S FILM FESTIVAL
CELEBRATING THE ADAPTATION OF BOOKS INTO FILM
WEDNESDAY 23 APRIL - SUNDAY 27 APRIL 2025
Keep an eye out for our 2025 festival programme launching soon
CHECK OUT OUR FRINGE EVENTS COMING UP THIS SEASON
FIRST BLOOD | (1982) (15) Thursday 10th April | 7:30pm
QUIZ NIGHT Saturday 22nd March | 7pm
A Celebration of Dance at Bridport Arts Centre
In 2025, Bridport Arts Centre takes a bold step forward with Movement Unbound - a vibrant focus on dance in all its forms. Bridport and the surrounding region are home to a thriving community of dancers, and this year we’re excited to celebrate their talent while offering opportunities to experience exceptional live dance performances, breathtaking dance films, and unforgettable DJ sets.
Whether you’re inspired by the grace of classic films or ready to shake off the winter blues on the dance floor, Movement Unbound invites everyone to embrace the joy of movement. We’re thrilled to kick off this exciting programme with a packed first season of events:
DISCOPIA | 21 FEB | LIVE DANCE I HAVE A BRUISE | 21 MAR | LIVE DANCE
SHALL WE DANCE 13 FEB | 1937 FILM
THE MENOPAUSE OF SOUND
15 FEB | DJ SET
AMA & THE RED SHOES
DOUBLE BILL
13 FEB | FILM
DJ CHIMAN-101 MIX & MAT
15 FEB | DJ SET
DANCING QUEEN
20 FEB | 2023 FILM
BACstage returns for a new term from the 15th Jan to the 2nd April. Run for young people aged 12-18 years, sessions are held 6pm - 8pm every Wednesday (excluding half term). Working with professional Director Niki McCretton and a team of expert theatre practitioners, we work as a group to find ideas, express ourselves and enjoy creating scenes and idea, in a supportive and fun atmosphere. Anyone is welcome and no experience necessary. Come along for a free taster session.
If you would be interested in a space or would like more information, please contact us at; bacstage@bridport-arts.com or call 01308 424 204.
Open
Wed to Sat, 10 - 3
f.east at the Arts Centre
This year we are donating juice to the Bridport Arts Centre bar as a contribution to the fundraising essential to keep it growing as it starts its next 50 years of sharing 'all the arts for everyone'.
Hope you enjoy our juice and thanks for supporting BAC!
