Rugby Festival of Culture 2017

24 JUNE TO 16 JULY 2017

Free Festival Guide

2016 WINNER COVENTRY & WARWICKSHIRE TOURISM & CULTURE AWARDS

Art n Literature n Music n Film n Dance n Food n Drink

www.therugbytown.co.uk/festivalofculture

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WELCOME

WELCOME TO THE RUGBY The Festival returns to Rugby town centre from Saturday 24 June until Sunday 16 July, fresh from its success at the Coventry and Warwickshire Tourism and Culture Awards 2016, where it won the Culture Award. We are also delighted to announce that this year’s festival has been extended by a week to include ‘The Festival on the Close’ - a public arts festival featuring world-class artists performing in a specially built 1,000 seater Performance Arena which will be situated in the historic setting of The Close at Rugby School – all part of Rugby School’s 450th anniversary celebrations!.

Take time to look through the guide – there’s plenty inside. Indulge yourself, try something different, socialise, laugh, discover, enjoy, celebrate, learn and have fun. Many of the events are free but where booking is required you will need to book early to avoid disappointment!

A heartfelt thanks to all those individuals, local businesses, groups, organisations and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to put the festival together – and of course our sponsors, advertisers, Rugby First and Rugby Borough Council for their continued support.

We hope you take the opportunity to enjoy a variety of events over the next three weeks with friends and family and help us celebrate The Rugby Town!

Aftab Gaffar, Rugby First Ltd and Cllr Heather Timms, Rugby Borough Council

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FESTIVAL OF CULTURE RUGBY ART TRAIL......................... 6 FESTIVAL ON THE CLOSE.............. 10

CONTENTS

THROUGHOUT THE FESTIVAL....... 4

FESTIVAL FILMS............................ 14 PROGRAMME OF EVENTS........... 16 LOCATION MAP.......................... 67

Key to Events n ARTS & CRAFTS n DANCE n ENTERTAINMENT n FILM n FOOD & DRINK n HERITAGE n MUSIC n THEATRE n LITERATURE All event listings are subject to change please check website for the latest information.

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Venue numbers are indicated like this

Access Key Disabled Access Restricted Access

©Highly Sprung Performance Co.

Disabled Toilet Facilities

For more detailed information on specific venues please call Rugby Visitor Centre on 01788 533217

Any more questions?

Still not sure about something?

Phone Rugby Visitor Centre on 01788 533217 or contact the event organiser. therugbytown

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THROUGHOUT THE FESTIVAL 24 JUNE - 16 JULY

n Music in Rugby

This exhibition is a celebration of all things musical in Rugby Borough. We explore past musicians, choirs and orchestras in the town through photographs, programmes and instruments from the museum’s social history collections. Also on display: Rugby Philharmonic Choir’s 150th Anniversary. From its early beginnings to present day this display features programmes, photographs and other important memorabilia from Rugby Philharmonic Choir members charting the choir’s 150-year history.

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: Tuesday – Friday 10am – 5pm Saturday 10am – 4pm Closed Sunday.

Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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Rugby Town Silver Band photograph (detail) Social History Collection

n Units of Possibility: The Reknit Revolution

Designer and maker Amy Twigger Holroyd invites us into the creative world of reknitting. Discover the inherit ‘tinkerability’ of the knitted structure and treat each individual stitch as a unit of possibility.

On display will be exhibits demonstrating reknitting techniques, along with instructional materials for those who wish to have a go.

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: Tuesday – Friday 10am – 5pm Saturday 10am – 4pm Closed Sunday.

Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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Image ©Jonathan Hamilton

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AT RUGBY ART GALLERY AND MUSEUM 24 JUNE - 16 JULY

Image ©Paulina Towarek

n ‘Aiming High’: an exhibition by local secondary schools

An exciting opportunity to see the talent and achievement of local secondary school students. The exhibition will take place in the Floor One Gallery of Rugby Art Gallery and Museum, and will showcase a collaboration of work from students between the ages of 11 and 18. Sponsored by Hinckley & Rugby Building Society.

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Venue: Floor One Gallery, Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: Monday – Friday 10am – 5pm Saturday 10am – 4pm Closed Sunday Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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ART TRAIL

THROUGHOUT THE FESTIVAL Image ©Rebecca Dawkins

1 Rugby Art Gallery and Museum: Denise Stanton 2 Mo’s Fabrics: Jane Tilley 3 Rugby Tap: Tantalus 4 CV22: Yvette Bartlett 5 The Rugby Hotel: Alchemy 6 Kuni’s Coffee and Comics: Chloe Bell 7 Sheep Street Cobblers: Ditherella’s Workshop 8 DAPP UK: Deborah Dutton 9 Treacle’s Kitchen: Sara Bishop 10 Florence Bridal Ltd: Devika Gill 11 Greenwoods: Tony Baker 12 Hinckley and Rugby Building Society: Rebecca Dawkins 13 Fantasia Café: Emma Town 14 Flowers by Pauline: Sarais Crawshaw 15 J. Parriss Jewellers: Bob Meddings 16 SASS: Amber Francesca ‘Thread the Love’ 17 John Taylor Funeral Services: Dot and Geoff Crowe

n Art Trail

Experience the Festival of Culture Art Trail by following the map around Rugby town centre. There is something for everyone in the trail, including paintings, handmade jewellery, textile pieces and ceramics. A fantastic opportunity to celebrate local artists work and to discover new shops and cafés in the town.

Venue: At locations throught the town centre Time: Throughout the festival Cost: FREE Audience: ALL There may be restricted access in some of the venues. For more information contact ragm@rugby.gov.uk or call 01788 533223.

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18 Wild and Free: Richard Matthews 19 Niki-Lu’s: Louise Candage-Wilkin 20 Terracotta: Clare Pentlow 21 Curtains by Design: Amber Feng Shui Art 22 Salters: Roger Griffiths 23 Eliza Doolittle: Susan Kennewell 24 Royal Bank of Scotland: Carol Wheeler & E.V. Wells 25 Shadow Games: Tammy Woodrow 26 Rugby Electrical Co: Jack Kirk 27 ‘three’: Paul Torr & Viktoria Novikova

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ART TRAIL

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Corporation Street

Don’t miss our Artists Demonstrations at the Clock Towers throughout the festival

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THROUGHOUT THE FESTIVAL

THROUGHOUT THE FESTIVAL

n Artist Demonstrations

Look out for the Art Trail artists demonstrating their work in the Clock Towers Shopping Centre during the festival. A great opportunity to talk to a local artist and to see them at work.

Venue: The Clock Towers Shopping Centre Time: Various days and times throughout the festival. See website for details.

Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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Rugby Art Gallery, Museum, Visitor Information Centre and Café

FREE

The Cultural Hub of Rugby Throughout the year you can enjoy and be inspired by: n Our brand new Archaeology Gallery featuring

the Tripontium Roman Collection and new archaeological finds n Fascinating exhibitions from the Social History Collection n Exciting exhibitions of contemporary and modern art and craft n Activities for all ages and special events programme… get hands on with art and history

Take a break in Café Downtown Please check the website for opening times

Rugby Art Gallery and Museum, Little Elborow Street, Rugby, CV21 3BZ T: 01788 533201 E: ragm@rugby.gov.uk W: www.ragm.co.uk

@rugbygallery

RAGM

THE FESTIVAL ON THE CLOSE

THE FESTIVAL ON THE CLOSE

The Festival on The Close is a public arts festival featuring world-class artists performing in our specially built 1,000 seater Performance Arena which will be situated in the historic setting of The Close at Rugby School. Our headline acts include original X Factor stars G4, Laura Mvula and a comedy night with a stellar line up including the hilarious Simon Evans. Daytime events are built around a programme of educational enrichment workshops. The Festival on The Close has over 200 creative workshops for children from across the region running throughout the week – from flamenco dancing to live sports commentary; from creative writing to sculpture; from fashion to stage combat. Unique, once in a lifetime experiences – dancing with Motionhouse, stomping with Stomp workshops, singing with Voces8 – lie at the heart of the festival and make this one of the most ambitious and exciting educational arts festivals in the country.

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n G4 with special guest Lesley Garrett Sunday 25 June

Join the original X Factor stars live on stage at The Festival on The Close with very special guest, acclaimed operatic soprano and national treasure Lesley Garrett.

n Bubble Schmeisis Monday 26 June

Bubbemeises is Yiddish for a grandmother’s story, a tall story, an old wives’ tale. Writer and street performer Nick Cassenbaum and his musicians invite you to enjoy a bubbemeises in the warmth of the Canning Town Schvitz, East London’s last authentic bath house.

Amongst the steam and ritual Nick will take you on a journey to find the place he belongs.

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SUNDAY 25 – THURSDAY 29 JUNE

In a lunchtime conversation, Francis Hopkinson, BAFTA award winning Creative Director, Drama at ITV and Literary Agent, Antony Harwood lift the lid on the business of commissioning, editing and realising award winning books, film and television programmes.

n A Night at the Proms Monday 26 June

In the tradition of the world’s greatest music festival, members of The Bliss Sinfonia, Rugby School’s professional orchestra-in-residence will join with pupils from Rugby school’s Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Robert Hodge in a programme of popular orchestral classics

SUNDAY 25 - THURSDAY 25 JUNE

n The Wright Business Monday 26 June

n National Youth Jazz Orchestra Tuesday 27 June

NYJO is world-famous as a glittering showcase for the UK’s best young jazz musicians. Under the direction of Mark Armstrong, the orchestra deftly mixes established classics from the big band repertoire, new work by composers at the leading-edge of the artform and special arrangements by band members.

From a hard-swinging rhythm section to a raft of hugely talented young soloists, this is a band in fine form.

n Captive by Motionhouse Tuesday 27 June

Four dancers perform this exciting blend of dance, acrobatics and aerial work inside a large cage.

Disorientated and shaken, the performers use their skill and instinct to survive in this emotionally charged and athletic piece.

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THE FESTIVAL ON THE CLOSE THE FESTIVAL ON THE CLOSE

n Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde film screening with live organ Tuesday 27 June

Internationally renowned organist David Briggs brings a spine-chilling late night screening of the classic gothic horror Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde to Rugby with live organ improvised accompaniment. Prepare to be spooked in this atmospheric setting of Rugby School’s famous Chapel.

n Louis de Bernières with The Bookshop Band Tuesday 27 June

Join the best-selling author of ‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin’ in a unique recital of his work with the Bookshop Band. Who knows, we might even have a chance hear Louis himself play with the band on his mandolin.

n Piano Recital by Oxana Shevchenko Tuesday 27 June

Please join us for this very special concert featuring international acclaimed pianist Oxana Shevchencko playing a range of music from Beethoven to Stravinski. Oxana Shevchenko is a graduate of the Moscow Tchaikovsky State Conservatory, where she studied with Elena Kuznetsova and Sergey Kuznetsov. She is currently studying with Benedetto Lupo at the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia in Rome.

n Tate Talk Wednesday 28 June

Join Samuel Jones, Head of the Director’s Office at TATE in a fascinating talk on the place art has in all of our lives. At a time when the arts are under particular threat in the UK’s education system, Sam asks us to consider the role that art plays in modern British society.

n Stomp with Student Stompers Wednesday 28 June

See members of the world-famous percussion-dance-theatre sensation Stomp perform live at The Festival on the Close with student stompers. Members of the touring company of Stomp will be performing extracts from their stunning stage show in our incredible Performance Arena.

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SUNDAY 25 – THURSDAY 29 JUNE

Join us for an uproarious evening of live stand-up comedy right here at The Festival on The Close as we welcome the one and only Simon Evans (star of BBC 1’s Live at the Apollo and host of BBC R4’s Goes to Market) to Headline this fantastic night.

n Roll Over Atlantic written and performed by John Agard Thursday 29 June

John Agard was born and educated in Guyana and came to Britain in 1977. He has won numerous awards internationally for his poetry and has also been poet in residence at the BBC and at the Greenwich Maritime Museum.

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n Comedy Night with Simon Evans and Special Guests Wednesday 28 June

n Laura Mvula with special guest Passport to Stockholm Thursday 29 June Innovative British singer songwriter, two time Mercury Prize nominee and two time MOBO award winner, Laura Mvula grew up in Birmingham. Mvula first sang in church and later with all female acapella group Black Voices. By 2008 she had formed and was composing for her own jazz/neo-soul outfit Judyshouse. Mvula has also directed various choirs.

n Jubilate Thursday 29 June

Jubilate - a choral concert by the choir of Rugby School to celebrate its 450th anniversary. This programme of choral classics will include works by Byrd, Brahms, Mozart, Monteverdi, Ireland and others as well as Jubilate by Simon Johnson - organist of St Paul’s Cathedral, commissioned to celebrate the 450th anniversary.

n Voces8 Twilight Concert Thursday 29 June

Join sensational vocal ensemble Voces8 in a late night concert to bring the 2017 Festival on the Close to a magical conclusion.

In the historic setting of Rugby School Quad, this promises to be a truly memorable and uplifting end to our week of celebrations in this the 450th Anniversary year of the founding of the school.

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FILMS AT THE FESTIVAL

FILMS n Sister Act with live choir Saturday 24 June

Dir: Emile Ardolino, USA 1992, 100 mins When lively Vegas lounge singer Deloris Van Cartier (Whoopi Goldberg) witnesses a crime at the hands of her mobster beau, she is entered into witness protection to avoid a similar fate. Set up in the guise of a nun she turns to the one place that she hopes he will never look - a Convent! Disguised as a nun Deloris woefully tries to adopt her new lifestyle and after several false starts, she finally finds her voice at the heart of the church choir. Featuring a performance from Voice of Unity Choir.

Venue: Rugby Baptist Church Time: 11am Cost: FREE Audience: PG

22 n DIY Drive-in: Melody Makers Sunday 25 June Dir: various

Families are invited to join us for a DIY drive in cinema experience! We’ll be making cardboard cars and then parking up to watch a selection of short films. With a tuneful thread running throughout, Melody Makers is full of rhythms, rhymes, and sing-along- songs. Featuring musical journeys with father and son in the folky Cookie-Tin Banjo, and Ichi, the world’s greatest one-man-band, teaches us the names of all the animals in Japanese in his new music video, Hippo 47. Other creatures to look out for include the friendly black and white monster in Antje Heyn’s Pawo, and the slightly confused dinosaur in the vibrantly colourful Wayne the Stegosaurus.

Venue: The Arnold House Time: 2pm Cost: £3 Booking: Rugby Visitor Centre or call 01788 533217 Audience: 2+

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FILMS FILMS AT THE FESTIVAL

n Short Film Night Wednesday 28 June Dir: various

Flatpack presents a one-off evening of short film joy at the Merchants. Covering everything from inventive animation and archive oddities to music videos and recent award-winners, this is a good two hours of mind-bending entertainment for zero pounds. There will also be some advice and info if you’re interested in setting up your own film night.

Venue: The Merchants Time: 7pm Cost: FREE Audience: 18+

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n La La Land Saturday 1 July

Dir: Damien Chazelle, USA 2017, Join us under the stars for a special open-air screening of this dazzling Oscar-winning love story from Damien Chazelle. La La Land tells the story of Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a dedicated jazz musician, both struggling to make ends meet in a city known for crushing hopes and breaking hearts.

A charming, nostalgic romance with knowing nods to Hollywood at every turn. Bring your own blankets and chairs.

Venue: Caldecott Park Time: 9.30pm (doors from 8pm) Cost: £8 full, £6 conc.

Booking: Rugby Visitor Centre on 01788 533217 or on the gate Audience: 12A

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In Partnership with Flatpack: Assemble

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SATURDAY 24 JUNE

SATURDAY 24 JUNE

n Rugby Town Guides Heritage Walking Tours

The Rugby Town Guides take residents and visitors on a journey of discovery through the town centre, revealing fascinating facts about the history of Rugby and the borough.

The free tours start at Rugby Visitor Centre and visit the Webb Ellis Football Museum, the Webb Ellis Statue, and The Queen’s Gates at Rugby School’s The Close, finishing at the entrance to the World Rugby Hall of Fame.

n The unveiling of Rugby Art Gallery and Museum’s summer shows

Join us to celebrate the opening of our two exciting summer shows. In our gallery space you can explore the creative world of reknitting with Amy Twigger Holroyd in ‘Units of Possibility: The Reknit Revolution’.

In the museum space you will find an exciting social history exhibition celebrating all things musical in the Borough, including past musicians, choirs and orchestras.

Not only will you get the chance to see the exhibitions on their first day of opening, but there will be music, activities for all the family and you can take part in our community knitathon. Not to be missed!

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: 1pm – 3pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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Other stops on the, up to 90 minute tour, include Regent Street, High Street, the Rupert Brooke Statue and St Andrew’s Church.

Schools, community organisations, businesses and tourists can also book a guided tour of the town centre.

For more information, call Rugby Visitor Centre on 01788 533217 Venue: Rugby Visitor Centre Time: Saturday 24th June 11am Wednesday 28th June 2pm Saturday 1st July 11am Wednesday 5th July 2pm Saturday 8th July 11am Wednesday 12th July 2pm Saturday 15th July 11am Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

Music at The Squirrel 9pm Synthmachine

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SATURDAY 24 JUNE SATURDAY 24 JUNE

Poetry at The Squirrel Sunday 25 June 7pm Poetry Night

n Dark Side of the Wall

One of the UK’s leading Pink Floyd Tribute Bands bring you a spectacular full-on Floyd experience with awesome sound and a dynamic light show.

Venue: The Benn Hall Time: 8pm Cost: £13 Booking: www.bennhall.com or call 01788 533719 Audience: ALL

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n Live Music Conspiracy consists of two guys dedicated to bring good music with a sense of fun to any crowd who care to listen or dance to them. Dave Anderson and Ed Cox are vastly experienced artistes and love to entertain! Conspiracy present songs mostly from the 60s & 70s, plus a smattering of Rock & Roll and country. You can listen or dance—your choice.

Dave and Ed are a friendly pair too, so come and chat, tell us your favourites—if we know ‘em , we’ll play ‘em!

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Gardens Time: 12 noon- 2pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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TUESDAY 27 JUNE

TUESDAY 27 JUNE

n Little Discoveries – Mini Explorers

Bring your little explorers to our sensory play session.

Each week we explore a different theme such as colour, texture or shape. Taking inspiration from our exhibition, join us for a fun morning surrounded by artwork! With rhymes, sing-a-long, instruments and parachute play, it’s the perfect way to introduce your little one to the art gallery.

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: 11am – 12 noon Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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WEDNESDAY 28 JUNE

WEDNESDAY 28 JUNE

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n Rugby Town Guides Heritage Walking Tours See page 16 Venue: Rugby Visitor Centre Time: 2pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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THURSDAY 29 JUNE Using a range of materials and techniques, our sessions give little ones the chance to get messy!

Each week there will be a crafty item to make and take home, alongside storytelling, instruments, dressing up and much much more. All sessions are led by our Mini-Artist leader.

THURSDAY 29 JUNE

n Little Discoveries – Mini Artist

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: 10:15 am – 12:30 pm Cost: £5 per session, term booking available Booking: Rugby Visitor Centre or call 01788 533217 Audience: Family/under 5’s

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n Belly Dance Hafla

Bellydance and Flamenco Show / Party featuring performances from students and professional dancers. Stalls selling costumes and jewellery, licenced bar, raffle, short disco at the end. Bring your own Picnic.

Any profits from the event are donated to www.buddybagfoundation.co.uk Sponsored by Worksafe GB Ltd. Venue: The Benn Hall Time: 7pm – 10.30pm Cost: £8 in advance adults, £4 Child £10/£4 on the door if any left.

Booking: www.kookiekaftan.co.uk Audience: ALL

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FRIDAY 30TH JUNE – SUNDAY 16TH JULY

FRIDAY 30 JUNE

n The Tantalus Project: ‘Unexpected Interventions’ Keep a look out around the town for Inspirational and creative work by members of the contemporary art group The Tantalus Project. A range of work that includes ceramics, textiles, print, painting and photography will be popping up in the most unexpected of places throughout the festival.‎ It could be in a shop, pub, garage, tied to a tree, stuck on a

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disused shop window... dare we say even projected?

Keep your eyes open.

Venue: Rugby Town Centre Time: Friday 30th June to Sunday 16th July Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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FRIDAY 30 JUNE FRIDAY 30 JUNE

n George Michael Tribute

Featuring Joseph, one of the country’s finest George Michael Tribute Acts. A spectacular evening of all your favourite George Michael/Wham! hits. Joe has performed his show all over the world having sung alongside many famous singers such as the 80’s pop diva Whigfield, Jason Donovan, Sugarbabes and Marc Le Mar. This is sure to be a Whamtastic Night with hits from both George Michael and Wham! followed by a retro 80s style disco until late.

Venue: The Benn Hall Time: 8pm Cost: £14 Booking: www.bennhall.co.uk Audience: ALL

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SATURDAY 1 JULY

SATURDAY 1 JULY

ST ANDREW’S CHURCH GARDENS

LINCOLN NOEL TRIO

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10.30am – 12 noon St Andrew’s Church Gardens A very popular act with charm, humour and incredible talent. Lincoln is one of the finest pianists in the country – expect anything from Jazz to Classical to Disney!!

THE DOGGONE DADDYS

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1.30pm – 3pm St Andrew’s Church Gardens A welcome return to a very lively Rockabilly Trio from the North East.

A foot-tapping set of Rock & Roll and Rockabilly favourites – lots of high energy entertainment.

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SATURDAY 1 JULY

JOHN LEES HALL GARDENS

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SCRATCH AND SNIFF 1.30pm – 3pm John Lees Hall Gardens The ever popular Dave Broadfield and his duo will entertain playing Cajun, Bluegrass & Country - not to be missed!

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SATURDAY 1 JULY

10.30am -12.30pm John Lees Hall Gardens Local four piece acoustic band. Lovely songs, beautifully played.

Listen out for songs from their latest album ‘Red Handed’.

FREE LIVE MUSIC

BEHIND THE SETTEE

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Experience Rugby’s greatest and the moments that defined the sport at the World Rugby Hall of Fame.

Open daily from 10am.

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Buy tickets or find out more at www.therugbytown.co.uk/halloffame Little Elborow Street, Rugby CV21 3BZ

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SATURDAY 1 JULY Rugby & District Art Society members will be sketching and painting in and around the café in Clifton Road.

Venue: THREE café, bar, bistro & cakery Time: 10am-2pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

Music at The Squirrel 9pm Mojo Rogues

SATURDAY 1 JULY

n Artists Live at Café Three

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n Rugby Community Choir

This large, enthusiastic, versatile choir has a wide ranging and stimulating repertoire. They practice at Avon Valley School and always welcome new members. The Choir is delighted to be asked to perform at St Peter & St John’s Church as part of the Rugby Festival of Culture and we will welcome Lisa Donnison (Flautist) as our guest soloist.

Venue: St Peter and St John Church Time: 1pm – 1.45pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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SATURDAY 1 JULY

Stereoette

Johnny M ack

M egan Rose

Susan Lovejoy

A rianna Morgan

One Pitch Acoustic Ba nd

n Spire Summer Festival

A “Never to Be Missed” event is our Spire Summer Festival in aid of the restoration of the Grade 2 listed, beautiful spire of St Marie’s Church, which is a famous local landmark. This one day event will feature respected seasoned artists, some of them participated in talent search like ‘The Voice’ and other singing competitions up and down the country. Special guests includes: Arianna Morgan, a Heart FM (Essex) fundraiser of the year, Stereoettes, a 4 piece female vocal harmony group, Megan Rose, Susan Love Joy, Johnny Mack, One Pitch Acoustic, St Maries Catholic Primary School Choir and other Rugby based performers. Also showcased during the day are selections of popular dishes from the Philippines, India, Poland, Ireland and Africa which exemplify the diversity of the parish.

Venue: Oak Street Time: 10am - 6pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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n Poetry Writing Workshop

Join Warwickshire’s Young Poet Laureate Emily for a free creative writing session. Emily will share her top tips for writing poetry – demonstrating how she has been inspired to write about her home town of Rugby.

Beginners and those wanting to develop their poetry skills welcome. If you are interested in becoming Young Poet Laureate 2018, do come along to find out more.

Venue: Rugby Library Time: 1pm – 2:30pm Cost: FREE Booking: www.eventbrite.co.uk Audience: Ages 12 to 15 only

13 n Meet the Masons!

Have you ever been inside a Freemasons Lodge Room – Would you like too? We will be holding an Open Afternoon celebration to mark the Tercentenary (300 years) of organised Freemasonry in this country including: • A guided tour of The Arnold House • Photographs of a variety of celebrations • The Charitable aspects of local Freemasonry (DVD) • What a Lodge room looks like and how it’s used • Some examples of the regalia worn • The opportunity to ask all those questions about Freemasonry that you always wanted to and dispel some of the myths.

Venue: The Arnold Lodge Time: 2pm to 4pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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n Rugby Town Guides Heritage Walking Tours

See page 16

Venue: Rugby Visitor Centre Time: 11am Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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SATURDAY 1 JULY

SATURDAY 1 JULY © Roger Griffiths

n Art Trail Guided Walk

Join us to experience the Rugby Festival of Culture Art Trail by taking part in a guided walk around the venues. The Art Trail showcases local artists work in shops, cafés, restaurants and other locations around the town centre. All walks are lead by a fully trained guide.

Venue: Meet at the Visitor Centre.

Time: 2pm – 3.30pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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n Dancing in the Street

Rugby FM invites you to join us for the performance of ‘Dancing In The Street’ an exciting West End style production.The story has been written by the Principal of Rugbys Pauline Quirke Academy, Jenny McDonald and is about a musical avenue where not 5 minutes goes by without a famous West End song. Rugby FM’s Jason Moss will host, and the production will be performed by the talented students from local school choirs and students from the Pauline Quirk Academy.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 5pm – 6pm Cost: £3 per Adult, £2 per Child Booking: Tickets available from Rugby Visitor Centre or on the door Audience: ALL

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n Patsy Cline & Friends

Tribute Concert to Patsy Cline – Hank Williams – Jim Reeves. Sue Lowry with her powerful rendition of Crazy, Sweet Dreams & I Fall to Pieces will take you back to those Honky Tonk days of pure Country Music.

Joining Sue is Marc Robinson, who will pay tribute to the Granddaddy of Country Music Hank Williams and Lee Davidge with a sensitive tribute to Jim Reeves.

Wear your Western gear and join us for a Hayride of a show!

Venue: The Benn Hall.

Time: 7.30pm Cost: £17.50 Booking: www.bennhall.co.uk or 01788 533719 Audience: ALL

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SATURDAY 1 JULY SATURDAY 1 JULY

n The Reluctant Dragon

Munchkins & Monsters return with their brand new show ‘The Reluctant Dragon’. Based on the short story by Kenneth Grahame, The Reluctant Dragon tells the tale of a friendly and kind hearted dragon, who is nothing like the fire breathing beasts you might have heard of before!

One day, the dragon meets a young boy and strikes up an unlikely friendship. When word of the dragon reaches the King, he sends his best knights to rid the land of the creature. Will the knights succeed or will the boy and the dragon be able to convince the kingdom that there is more to the dragon than meets the eye?

Featuring playful puppetry, interactive sets, imaginative storytelling and a whole heap of adventure!

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n Journeys to Home

A unique collaboration between Highly Sprung Theatre Company and the local community to perform work inspired by Rugby Art Gallery and Museum’s Redding Collection. ‘Journeys to Home’ will animate the many stories and recollections of families and individuals who travelled from across the world to make Rugby their home. After the performance the event will continue with free family activities at Rugby Art Gallery and Museum. A spectacular event, not to be missed! The performance will take place in the town centre by the Clock Towers.

©Rugby Art Gallery and Museum

SUNDAY 2 JULY

SUNDAY 2 JULY

Venue: Rugby Town Centre Time: Performance starts at 2pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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SUNDAY 2 JULY SUNDAY 2 JULY

n Summer Market

Infinity 7 Events Ltd is once again working alongside the Caldecott Park team in bringing this popular market back to Rugby. 2016 saw an immensely successful event with over 600 visitors and more than 35 traders.

The market offers a diverse range of stalls from handmade crafts and jewellery to locally produced foods and beauty products. Whether you are looking for a special gift or just that something a bit different, you will find it here!

Bring the kids! Green Flag Award winning Caldecott Park has a dedicated children’s play area and there will be additional rides and a bouncy castle on market day.

Venue: Caldecott Park Time: 10am – 3pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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Sunday 2nd July 10am - 4pm (last entry 3pm) World Rugby Hall of Fame – Free Admission Day As part of a series of open days during the year, visit the inspiring, interactive, immersive World Rugby Hall of Fame, with free admission.

Experience rugby’s greats and the moments that defined the sport at the new, state-of-the-art World Rugby Hall of Fame.

Take an inspirational journey through time using the latest HD touch-screen technology, from the game’s humble origins to its global present played by 7.73 million men, women and children.

Learn about all 121 World Rugby national unions, understand the variations of the sport and discover the moments that created professionalism, Olympic inclusion and the values that unite the sport from community to elite level.

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SUNDAY 2 JULY

SUNDAY 2 JULY

n Hansel & Gretel

A Magical, Musical Fairy-Tale Adventure A one-man musical, story-telling show for children and families, written and performed by ‘extraordinary cellist, virile baritone, compelling actor, Matthew Sharp’ (The Daily Telegraph) – ‘the virtuoso of the arts’ (The Times). From the edgeof-the-oven cunning of Hansel and Gretel to the blissful sounds of Bach, join us for a feast of fairytale and fireside favourites.

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Beloved stories, bewitching music and the be-once in a lifetime chance to join in and help our heroes and heroines along the way come together in one unforgettable, epic and intimate show.

Venue: Bacco Lounge Time: 4pm – 5pm Cost: £5 Audience: ALL

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n Festival String Concert

This concert features Rugby Sinfonia members from current and past generations, and some guest players, to bring you an hour’s selection of entertaining and popular string music.This year we have a European Musical Tour theme, with pieces from: HUNGARY - Kodaly, Hary Janos, Intermezzo; AUSTRIA - J Strauss, Emperor Waltz; RUSSIA Tchaikovsky. Legend; NORWAY - Pier Gynt Suite ….. and who knows where else? Come and find out Venue: Temple Speech Room Time: 4.45pm - 6pm Cost: £10/£8/ under 18 £5 Booking: Rugby Visitor Centre, www.stringfest.co.uk or on the door Audience: ALL

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n Art at the Arnold

On show in the Arnold House Restaurant will be a varied display of artworks by members of the Rugby & District Art Society, which is currently celebrating its 80th season.

Venue: The Arnold House Time: 11am - 3pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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n Book Magic

Stories and crafts for families.

Venue: Rugby Library Time: 2pm - 3pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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n The Reluctant Dragon See page 29 for further information Venue: Rugby Theatre Time: 11am and 1pm Cost: £6 standard ticket, £20 family ticket (group of 4) Children under 1 go free Booking: www.rugbytheatre.co.uk or 01788 541234 Audience: ALL

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MONDAY 3 JULY MONDAY 3 JULY

n Fun with Strings!

Workshops for younger players, with the chance to play through specially adapted pieces so that beginners can enjoy playing with more experienced players. After school, local star-players “Stringfever” will participate in these events.

Venue: Temple Speech Room Time: 4pm - 5.30pm Cost: FREE Bookings: www.stringfest.co.uk Audience: ALL

17 n Stringfever!

International Stars, and Local Boys, “Stringfever” appear again in Rugby after their sensational appearance for 2015’s Rugby World Cup Festival events in Rugby town centre, and their subsequent tour of the USA,and elsewhere. Comedy, Music, and string-playing at the highest level.

Venue: Temple Speech Room Time: 7.30pm-9.30pm Cost: £15/£12 under 18s £8 Bookings: Rugby Visitor Centre, www.stringfest.co.uk or on the door Audience: ALL

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MONDAY 3 JULY MONDAY 3 JULY

n The Merchants Cider & Gin Festival 2017 Monday 3rd Cider & Cheese Tasting 7pm, Cider Festival Pub Quiz 8pm Tuesday 4th Live Music: 9pm Wednesday 5th Sausage & Cider Night (from 5pm) Live Music: 9pm Thursday 6th Sausage & Cider Night (from 5pm), Tutored Gin Tasting 7pm Friday 7th Gin & Pimms Offers Saturday 8th Live Rugby: Lions V New Zealand (Final Test) 8.35am kick off – Open from 7am Live Sport: Austrian Grand Prix, Gin & Pimms Offers Sunday 9th The Merchants Legendary Sunday Roast (12-5pm), Live Sport: Austrian Grand Prix Venue: The Merchants Inn Time: 3rd – 9th July Cost: FREE Audience: 18+

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n The Exhibition of Works of Art by Rugby Young People

So much dazzling work by many talented young artists tends to be seen only by examiners, families and visitors to schools. The Youth Service Committee of the three Rotary Clubs in Rugby aims to celebrate a range of items of this work with a wider audience. The people of Rugby can help us achieve this deserved recognition for the students, by visiting this exhibition throughout the Festival. Awards Ceremony to follow on 15th July see page 62 for details.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 3rd - 15th July, 10am - 2pm, except Sundays.

Cost: FREE Audience: ALL therugbytown

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TUESDAY 4 JULY TUESDAY 4 JULY

n Little Discoveries – Mini Explorers See page 18 for more information.

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: 11am – 12 noon Cost: FREE Booking: Drop in Audience: ALL

1 n God of Carnage

God of Carnage is the story of two married couples who meet for the first time shortly after their respective sons have a nasty schoolyard tangle. Michael and Veronica, whose son’s teeth were knocked out with a stick, invite Alan and Annette, whose son did the knocking, to their home to settle matters such as who will pay for new teeth. But any attempt at having a civilized discussion about whose child is responsible for the fight, and how the parents may have influenced such destructive behaviour, quickly devolves into finger-pointing, name-calling, stomping around and throwing things. And that’s before they break out the rum!

God of Carnage runs nightly from 4-8 July

Venue: Rugby Theatre Time: 7.30pm Cost: £12 - £13 (concessions available) Booking: www.rugbytheatre.co.uk or 01788 541234 Audience: Adults

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Did you know? The World Rugby Hall of Fame is holding a FREE ADMISSION DAY Sunday 2nd July 10am - 4pm (last entry 3pm)

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TUESDAY 4 JULY

A programme of music for four hands at one piano.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 1pm – 2 pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

TUESDAY 4 JULY

n Piano Duo Darren Leaper & Cecilia Xi

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WEDNESDAY 5 JULY

WEDNESDAY 5 JULY

n Bring your boots and boogie

Sheep Street Cobblers 25th anniversary party, with the brilliant local band ‘The Dukes Jetty’ who will be performing outside their shop on Sheep Street..

Venue: Sheep Street Cobblers Time: 12.30pm - 2.30pm Cost: FREE Audience: All

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WEDNESDAY 5 JULY WEDNESDAY 5 JULY

n The Best of British

British influence on the world of culture and music is second to none. Rugby Operatic Society (ROS) is celebrating that fact in style this summer, with items from Andrew Lloyd Webber; Lionel Bart; Gilbert & Sullivan and My Fair Lady, the next stage show in February 2018. Bring your voice with you because there will be plenty of opportunity to join in and sing-a-long with ROS and special musical guests, Bilton Silver Band, in a tribute to the Last Night at the Proms.

This concert is being held at the Arnold House, Rugby’s hidden jewel, which is the home of Freemasonry in Rugby. The concert will also be the high point of local celebrations for the 300th Anniversary of Masonry in England & Wales.

Join the celebrations and wave your flag!!

Venue: The Arnold House Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm Cost: £8 Booking: Tickets on the door – opens 6.30pm with bar available.

Audience: All

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WEDNESDAY 5 JULY WEDNESDAY 5 JULY

n From Mozart to Musicals, Mark II, starring Voci Vico

By popular request, local vocal ensemble Voci Vico return to St Andrew’s Church to continue their dazzling blend of favourite opera with great numbers from the musicals.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 7:30pm Cost: £5 Bookings: Tickets on the door Audience: ALL

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n Three One Act Comedies With Fish and Chip Supper From the pen of one of the Country’s best comic writers, Dave Tristram.

FIRST COURSE: Carrot… Industrial Relations Laid Comically Bare!

Fish and chip supper SECOND COURSE: Last Tango in Little Grimley FOLLOWED BY cake and then the sequel: Last Panto in Little Grimley “Amateur Dramatics have never been funnier than watching this group trying to perform Last Tango and Last Panto”.

Venue: The Benn Hall Time: 7pm - 10pm Cost: £15 Bookings: www.bennhall.co.uk or 01788 533719 Audience: ALL

4 n Rugby Town Guides Heritage Walking Tours See page 16 for more information Venue: Rugby Visitor Centre Time: 2pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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THURSDAY 6 JULY THURSDAY 6 JULY

n Little Discoveries – Mini Artists See page 19 for more information.

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: 10.15am - 11.15am & 11.30am - 12.30pm Cost: £5 per session, term booking available Booking: Rugby Visitor Centre or by calling 01788 533217 Audience: Family/under 5’s

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FRIDAY 7 JULY FRIDAY 7 JULY

n Dramatic Draw: Clothed Life drawing workshop for adults

Draw clothed life models with an orchestra theme.

Our conductor and musician will use musical instruments, costume and backdrop to create a dramatic atmosphere. Draw with guidance from our staff.

Poses will change throughout the evening. Pencils, charcoal, paper and clipboards are provided.

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: 6pm - 8pm Cost: £5 Booking: Tickets available from Rugby Visitor Centre or on 01788 533217 Audience: Adults

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n Sweet Songs for a Summer Sunset William Griffiths (tenor) and Varvara Maggs (piano) return to St Andrew’s Church with a programme for voice and piano: Old Italian Airs, English Songs, German Lieder, French Mélodies, Operatic and Folkloric repertoire, and some easy-listening hits.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 7.30pm - 9pm Cost: £5 Audience: Adults

6 Did you know? The World Rugby Hall of Fame is holding a FREE ADMISSION DAY Sunday 2nd July 10am - 4pm (last entry 3pm)

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FRIDAY 7 JULY FRIDAY 7 JULY

n ‘The Twits’

Roald Dahl created some truly revolting characters in his time but surely few can compare with the noxiousness of Mr and Mrs Twit. This adaptation by David Wood is a marvellous mix of singing, dancing, slapstick, audience participation, shouting and beards.

Bored with playing schoolkiddish tricks on one another, the grotesque, satisfyingly revolting couple Mr and Mrs Twit turn their attentions to capturing and training a family of monkeys, the Mugglewumps, for a circus act. The monkeys’ cruel incarceration in a cage is avenged when the birds trick the Twits into believing the world has turned upside-down.

Come and witness these truly ghastly, infamous book characters come to life in our Rugby Festival of Culture production of The Twits.

Venue: The Benn Hall Time: Friday 7th July: 7pm Saturday 8th July: 2pm and 7pm (doors open 30 mins before performance starts) Cost: £11 Booking: www.bennhall.co.uk or 01788 533719 Audience: All

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SATURDAY 8 JULY

ST ANDREW’S CHURCH GARDENS SATURDAY 8 JULY

THE RECORD COVERS

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10.30am – 12noon St Andrew’s Church Gardens An acoustic trio from Rugby Stripping down songs to 2 guitars , drums/cajon and 3 vocals, The Record Covers put their own acoustic twist on a wide range of tunes. There should be something for anyone with an ear for a bit of indie music!

DUKES JETTY

1.30pm – 3pm St Andrew’s Church Gardens A rare appearance from one of Rugby’s most popular bands. A refreshing mix of 60’s hits and more. Four lovely lads who always put on a great show.

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SATURDAY 8 JULY

JOHN LEES HALL GARDENS

DUNCAN DAKIN

1.30pm – 3pm John Lees Hall Gardens Vocalist from the popular duo – Tempting Fate. Accompanying himself on guitar and singing a selection of well known songs – plus a few of his own!

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11am – 12.15pm John Lees Hall Gardens Local singer/guitarist singing a mix of some of the finest acoustic songs.

Special guest appearance by Julie Thompson who will duet on several songs from a brand new musical venture – written by Andy.

FREE LIVE MUSIC

ANDY SMITH (Featuring Julie Thompson)

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SATURDAY 8 JULY SATURDAY 8 JULY

n How does your garden grow? – a celebration of British flowers

Flower Festival hosted at St Andrew’s Church in partnership with Garden Gate Flowers. Come and enjoy a wonderful celebration of British flowers in the dramatic setting of Victorian architecture at the heart of Rugby town.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 8th - 16th July 8.30am - 2pm Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm Saturdays.

Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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n Rugby Town Guides Heritage Walking Tours See page 16 for more information Venue: Rugby Visitor Centre Time: 11am Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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n Art Trail Guided Walk

Join us to experience the Rugby Festival of Culture Art Trail by taking part in a guided walk around the venues. The Art Trail showcases local artists work in shops, cafés, restaurants and other locations around the town centre. All walks are lead by a fully trained guide.

Venue: Meet at The Visitor Centre.

Time: 2pm – 3.30pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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n The Reluctant Dragon See page 29 for further information Venue: Rugby Theatre Time: 11am Cost: £6 standard ticket, £20 family ticket (group of 4) Children under 1 go free Booking: www.rugbytheatre.co.uk or 01788 541234 Audience: ALL

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n Thread the Love Crochet Workshop

Join Amber from ‘Thread the Love’ in this exciting crochet workshop using recycled t-shirt yarn. There will be a selection of patterns to choose from giving you something truly unique to take home.

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: 10.30am – 1.30pm Cost: £45 Booking: Visit www.threadthelove.co.uk to book your place Audience: Adults with crochet experience

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SATURDAY 8 JULY Arts and Crafts, Textiles, Real Bread and Poetry alongside Heritage tours and Shopping opportunities.

Fresh Food from the Guildhouse Cafe will be offered alongside a Bar run by the award winning Rugby Tap, which of course will feature the best Local Ales, Ciders and Gins. Family attractions throughout the day with live acoustic music later on in the gardens from some of Rugby’s finest musicians.

SATURDAY 8 JULY

n Rugby Tap Garden Party

Venue: Percival Guildhouse and Gardens Time: 1pm - 9pm Cost: FREE Audience: All

20 n Town Centre Community Singing workshop: Sing a Song of Summer

An invitation from the Kids Choir and adult Singers at St Andrew’s Church to join them for a fun sing-in – all families welcome, no previous choral experience required. We will be preparing for an equally-fun teatime performance (see Monday 10th July, 5pm) but if you can only join us today, please just turn up anyway.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 10am - 12 noon Cost: FREE Audience: All

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n Rugby Philharmonic Choir Celebrates 150 Years “1867 And All That” 150th anniversary concert featuring music composed around 1867, including a selection from Faure’s ‘Requiem’, originally performed by the choir in 1974. Brahms’ ‘How Lovely are Thy Dwellings’, Verdi’s ‘Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves and the ‘Polovtsian Dances’ by Borodin will also feature on the programme. A concert version of ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ will be performed in a rousing finale.

Venue: Temple Speech Room Time: 7pm - 9.30pm Cost: £12.50 Booking: 01788 815709 Audience: All therugbytown

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SATURDAY 8 JULY SATURDAY 8 JULY

n Bilton Silver Training Band Directed by Di Fisher

We welcome back for the fourth time, this very dynamic, youthful and enthusiastic Brass band to play for us. There are about fifty talented young musicians who will play a range of music from traditional to Pop. We will hear a number of expert soloists and there will be a very informative announcer, the conductor of the Main Bilton Silver Band – Mark Allen.

Venue: St Peter & St John Church Time: Church open from 12 noon with Pre- Concert refreshments in Hall till 12.55pm Concert starts at 1pm Cost: FREE Audience: All

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n Artists Live at Café Three

Rugby & District Art Society members will be sketching and painting in and around the café in Clifton Road.

Venue: THREE café bar bistro & cakery Time: 10am-2pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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National Bandstand weekend

SATURDAY 8 JULY

Caldecott Park

Saturday 8th July Dunchurch Brass band 1:30pm – 2:30pm Sunday 9th July Lawrence Sherriff School band 2pm – 3pm

Music at The Squirrel 9pm Stonefire 49

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SUNDAY 9 JULY SUNDAY 9 JULY

n ‘Pure Imagination’

The Lawrence Sheriff Music department presents a concert with a difference. Just back from their tour to Romania the concert will feature a large combined orchestra, choir and rock band performing a programme of popular music from fantasy based movies such as Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings and ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’. Expect appearances from costumed characters and action sequences too! Suitable for all the family, this event promises high quality music in an informal ‘al fresco’ environment.

Venue: Caldecott Park Time: 2pm - 3pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

9 n Tea with St Andrew’s Church Choir: Music, Strawberries and Worship Members of the distinguished choir of St Andrew’s Church invites you to join them for a varied selection of song, a summer tea, and finally the beauty of the evening Compline service. We hope you will come for all of these, but you are welcome for any time you can spare.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 4pm - 7pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

n Book Magic

n Art at the Arnold

Stories and crafts for families.

Venue: Rugby Library Time: 2pm - 3pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

See page 33 for further information.

Venue: The Arnold House Time: 11am -3pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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SUNDAY 9 JULY Munchkins & Monsters return with their brand new show ‘The Reluctant Dragon’. Based on the short story by Kenneth Grahame, The Reluctant Dragon tells the tale of a friendly and kind hearted dragon, who is nothing like the fire breathing beasts you might have heard of before!

SUNDAY 9 JULY

n The Reluctant Dragon

See page 29 for further information Venue: Rugby Theatre Time: 11am and 1pm Cost: £6 standard ticket £20 family ticket (group of 4) Children under 1 go free Booking: www.rugbytheatre.co.uk or 01788 541234 Audience: ALL

15 Rugby FoC, 04-17.qxp_Layout 1 25/04/2017 14:59 Page 1

Tel: 0800 434 6343 Web: hrbs.co.uk Visit our Rugby branch at 34 North Street

The Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority. The Society's registration number is 206043

Proud to sponsor the Rugby Festival of Culture 2017 and the inaugural Aiming High Schools Exhibition as part of our ongoing commitment to support the communities we serve 51

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MONDAY 10 JULY MONDAY 10 JULY

n Fairy Tales for Adults

Fairy tales, in previous centuries, weren’t considered stories only for children. The name “fairy tale” comes from the French conte de fée, a term coined in 17th century Paris for a literary fashion popular with adult readers. RT’s writers group have penned a number of short fairy tales that will be performed in our intimate studio in Central Hall.

Venue: Rugby Theatre Time: 7.30pm Cost: £6 Booking: www.rugbytheatre.co.uk or 01788 541234 Audience: Adults

15 n Garden Gate Flowers Demonstration Workshop

Come along and learn how to create a large arrangement or hanging installation.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 2pm - 4pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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MONDAY 10 JULY

The sequel to the community singing workshop in St Andrew’s Church last Saturday. All families welcome to join the Kids Choir and adult Singers of St Andrew’s Church for tea and music. No previous choral experience required. You don’t even need to have attended the workshop – please join us anyway. Town Centre community fun music.

Doors open for rehearsing and chatting, 4pm. Tea available to be bought throughout. Special performance of what we have worked on from 5pm.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 4pm - 6pm Cost: FREE Audience: All

MONDAY 10 JULY

n Sing a Song of Summer – the performance

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TUESDAY 11 JULY TUESDAY 11 JULY

n Piano Recital by Jill Crossland Established international concert pianist Jill Crossland returns to Rugby, where she has performed over many years to give another celebrity recital.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 1pm - 2pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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n Five Children and It: an original musical modelled on the story of E Nesbitt

Dunchurch Infant School on tour to the Rugby Festival! Following the success of Jen Elvy’s and Jo Foote’s original songs for children at the previous two Festivals, the school has commissioned a new musical from these talented local performers and writers. After the world premiere in Dunchurch, the company come to St Andrew’s Church for yet more acclaim!

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 5pm - 7pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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n Garden Gate Flowers bouquet workshop

Learn the art of spiralling stems to make a beautiful hand-tied bouquet of seasonal British flowers.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 2pm-4pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

6 n Little Discoveries – Mini Explorers See page 18 for more information.

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: 11am – 12pm Cost: FREE Booking: Drop in Audience: ALL

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WEDNESDAY 12 JULY

Ian Pittaway, historical music performer on stage and TV, will take you on a journey through the songs, tunes and stories of the middle ages. Hear a Spanish song about a miraculous pork chop; 13th century English songs about the weather (what else?); a Christmas hit for Mike Oldfield by a medieval monk who wore brass tacks in his underpants; medieval dances; the crossover between folk music and medieval music; and much more, sung and played on harp, bray harp, gittern, lute and koboz.

“Ian’s instrumental virtuosity … masterful on anything he turns his frets to.” ~ English Dance & Song magazine “Ian engages the audience … an object lesson in talking about the songs in an entertaining way.” ~ Warwick Folk Club

WEDNESDAY 12 JULY

n The Magic of Medieval Music: Ian Pittaway: medieval harps, voice, gittern, lute, koboz

Venue: Rugby Library Time: 6.45pm - 8.15pm Cost: £6 Booking: Book tickets on Eventbrite by searching Ian Pittaway (https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-magic-ofmedieval-music-tickets-32089986012) Audience: All

13 n Music for All Tastes, with a host of brilliant young singers

Pupils of local soprano Emma Griffiths proudly present: Classical, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Pop, Folk.

A rising generation of Rugby stars!An evening to remember!

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 7.30pm - 9.30pm Cost: £5 Booking: Tickets on the door Audience: ALL

6 Events at a glance can be downloaded from our website

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n Rugby Town Guides Heritage Walking Tours See page 16 for more information Venue: Rugby Visitor Centre Time: 2pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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THURSDAY 13 JULY THURSDAY 13 JULY

n Little Discoveries – Mini Artists See page 19 for more information.

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: 10.15am - 11.15am & 11.30am - 12.30 pm Cost: £5 per session, term booking available Booking: Pre-book at Rugby Visitor Centre or by calling 01788 533217 Audience: Family/under 5’s

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n An Hour (or so) of New Drama

Black Curtain Productions present an hour or so of new drama, directed by Mike and Steve who have over 100 years of combined experience in theatre.

Venue: The Town and County Club Time: Thursday 13th July 8pm, Friday 14th July 8pm and 9:30pm Cost: FREE when drink purchased at the bar Audience: 18+

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Invite you to come along, sing along - and raise the roof, at our very special …

Saturday 29th July @ 7pm TEMPLE SPEECH ROOM, BARBY ROAD, CV22 5DA Featuring the Male Voice Choirs of …

Rugby, Northampton, Coventry & RNA Leamington plus the acclaimed …

Jaguar Land Rover Band with guest soloist Sarah Butt

TICKETS (in advance) £12.50 from Rugby Visitor Centre, or £15 on the door - please book early to avoid disappointment!

Doors open from 6pm and concert begins at 7pm 57

Friends of the Hospital of St. Cross reg. charity no: 218485 Rotary Rugby Dunsmore reg. charity no: 1070897

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FRIDAY 14 JULY

FRIDAY 14 JULY

n Cocktails and Colouring

A social evening of colouring and cocktails with materials provided!

Drinks will be available to purchase from the bar.

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: 5.30pm – 9pm Cost: £1 per person (pay on the day) Booking: Just turn up Audience: All

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n Piano Recital by Varvara Maggs

Russian concert pianist Varvara returns to Rugby, where she has a following of many music lovers, to give another performance of the highest pianistic artistry.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 7.30pm Cost: £5 Booking: Tickets on the door Audience: ALL

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FRIDAY 14 JULY FRIDAY 14 JULY

n An Audience with Ann Widdecombe

One-time Shadow Home Secretary and long-serving Tory MP Ann Widdecombe has reinvented herself since leaving Parliament. Her inimitable performances on Strictly Come Dancing and her pantomime turns alongside Craig Revel Horwood have made her a popular and familiar face on stage and TV. Theatres and festivals absolutely love hearing her talk about her life which still involves serious debate and regular TV documentaries.

How often can you hear a former Shadow Home Secretary revealing what life is really like at the centre

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(well OK, right of centre) of British politics? She had a formidable reputation in parliament and remains relentlessly outspoken.

However, live on stage Ann is engaging, entertaining and refreshingly down to earth. An evening not to be missed!

Venue: Rugby Theatre Time: 7.30pm Cost: ÂŁ18 Booking: www.rugbytheatre.co.uk or 01788 541234 Audience: Adults

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SATURDAY 15 JULY

ST ANDREW’S CHURCH GARDENS SATURDAY 15 JULY

BE AWESOME MUSIC (BAM!)

12pm - 3pm St Andrew’s Church Gardens BE AWESOME MUSIC (BAM!) is proud to present some of its most talented students along with some excellent pupils from Lawrence Sheriff School.

Showcasing some of the best young local talent - with singer/songrwiters, an Electric Guitar Orchestra, a conceptual bacon themed band and some fully functioning Originals acts. All the performers are under 18, the youngest of which is 10!!

BAM! has really flourished in its 1st year, come and check out what we’ve been working on and see what the youth of this town has to offer!! www.beawesomemusic.com

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SATURDAY 15 JULY

JOHN LEES HALL GARDENS

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VOICES OF UNITY GROUP

1pm– 3pm John Lees Halll Gardens Welcome return to this popular choir.

Gospel show with a difference!

Prepare to be inspired and entertained.

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SATURDAY 15 JULY

10.30am – 11.45am John Lees Halll Gardens Solo violinist – talented musician playing your favourite classical tunes.

FREE LIVE MUSIC

ANDY RACKHAM

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SATURDAY 15 JULY

SATURDAY 15 JULY n Rugby Town Guides Heritage Walking Tours See page 16 for more information Venue: Rugby Visitor Centre Time: 11am Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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n Art Trail Guided Walk

Join us to experience the Rugby Festival of Culture Art Trail by taking part in a guided walk around the venues.

Venue: Meet at The Visitor Centre.

Time: 2pm – 3.30pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

3 n The Exhibition of Works of Art

by Rugby Young People: Award Ceremony

n The Reluctant Dragon See page 29 for further information

Venue: Rugby Theatre Time: 11am and 1pm Cost: £6 standard ticket £20 family ticket (group of 4) Children under 1 go free Booking: www.rugbytheatre.co.uk or 01788 541234 Audience: ALL

Awards will be presented to winners of the Exhibition

by MP Mark Pawsey.

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 12.15pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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15 n Summer Reading Challenge Launch

Are you up for the challenge? Can you read 6 books over the holidays? Sign up to the Summer Reading Challenge – there are surprises and prizes along the way and those who complete the challenge will be awarded a medal and a certificate. This year’s theme is Animal Agents.

Venue: Rugby Library Time: 9am - 4pm Cost: FREE Audience: 5-11 years

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SATURDAY 15 JULY

We are lucky to have one of the country’s finest ukulele players coming to the festival to give a ‘fun’ workshop followed by a 45 minute performance/ demonstration. Bring along your uke and learn some new skills or just enjoy listening to those around you improving!!

Ben performs everything from classical to rock on his uke and so a great opportunity to see a master at work!! A great event for all the family.

SATURDAY 15 JULY

n Ukulele Workshop & Concert With Ben Rouse

Venue: St Andrew’s Church Time: 3pm – 4.45 pm Cost: £5 Booking: Tickets from Sounds 35 Church Street or Rugby Visitor Centre Audience: ALL

6 n One World Concert

Celebrating cultures from around the world through dance, singing and instrumental music. Performers of all ages.

A finger food buffet is included in the ticket price. All proceeds to Afro Caribbean Leukaemia Trust (ACLT).

Venue: Rugby Methodist Church Centre Time: 6.45pm – 9.30pm Cost: £5 each, £12 for families Audience: ALL

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SATURDAY 15 JULY

SATURDAY 15 JULY n Saturday Night at the Movies

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Musicals have been tap dancing their way into moviegoers’ hearts since the invention of cinema sound itself and this is a one-off showcase celebrating the best. From classic to contemporary there will be something for everyone.

Venue: Rugby Theatre Time: 7.30pm Cost: £12 Booking: www.rugbytheatre.co.uk or 01788 541234 Audience: All

Music at The Squirrel 6pm Sean McAusland

n Festival of Archaeology

Explore our Roman handling objects and become an archaeologist for the afternoon.

Venue: Rugby Art Gallery and Museum Time: 1.30pm - 3.30pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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SUNDAY 16 JULY Stories and crafts for families.

Venue: Rugby Library Time: 2pm - 3pm Cost: FREE Audience: ALL

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SUNDAY 16 JULY

n Book Magic

n The Reluctant Dragon

Munchkins & Monsters return with their brand new show ‘The Reluctant Dragon’. Based on the short story by Kenneth Grahame, The Reluctant Dragon tells the tale of a friendly and kind hearted dragon, who is nothing like the fire breathing beasts you might have heard of before! See page 29 for further information Venue: Rugby Theatre Time: 11am and 1pm Cost: £6 standard ticket £20 family ticket (group of 4) Children under 1 go free Booking: www.rugbytheatre.co.uk or 01788 541234 Audience: ALL

15 n Comedy of Errors

Shakespeare’ most farcical comedy, involving two sets of identical brothers, both separated at birth and their respective servants is given the Spitfire treatment in the company’s latest production, touring venues in and around the midlands. Bring your own seating.

Venue: Caldecott Park Time: 11am, 2pm and 5pm Cost: £7.50 for adults £5 students and concessions (Under 16s and OAPS) Booking: Tickets available at Rugby Visitor Centre, Online at http://www.spitfiretheatre.com/book-now Or by calling 07443906227 Audience: All

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We’ve made Rugby town centre so much better! Cleaner, safer and friendlier. Rugby now offers you an improved, more pleasurable shopping experience. Many of your favourite high street shops, our fantastic independent stores and service, makes Rugby a great town for a fantastic day’s shopping.

There’s just so much happening in Rugby town centre!..

Among our many other claims to fame we are the home of Rugby football. Why not celebrate Rugby’s heritage and culture by attending one of the festival events or visiting one of our renowned restaurants, cafés or bars. Rugby really is the place to relax with friends. Rugby offers its shoppers, visitors and residents a town full of charm and heritage. Rugby really is the place to enjoy and discover.

... discover more in Rugby!

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www.therugbytown.co.uk/festivalofculture RugbyTownCentre

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LOCATION MAP

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Locations shown on map are approximate

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Rugby Art Gallery & Museum Clock Towers Shopping Centre Rugby Visitor Centre The Benn Hall Town Centre St Andrew’s Church Town & County Club John Lees Hall Garden Caldecott Park Café Three St Peter & St John Church

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St Marie’s Church, Oak Street Rugby Library The Arnold House Rugby Theatre Bacco Lounge Temple Speech Room The Merchants Inn Sheep Street Cobblers Percival Guildhouse Gardens Rugby Methodist Church Centre Rugby Baptist Church

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Rugby Visitor Centre ...

Helpful, Friendly and Welcoming

Local information Accommodation enquiries Places to visit Event booking and information

www.therugbytown.co.uk

Rugby Visitor Centre, Rugby Art Gallery and Museum, Little Elborow Street, Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 3BZ Tel: 01788 533217 visitor.centre@rugby.gov.uk

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