Welcome to Helmsley Arts Centre’s Spring & Summer 2025 Brochure!
This programme is full of events, activities and classes from March to August 2025. You’ll find information on how you can get involved, be that volunteering behind the bar; painting scenery; sewing costumes; selling tickets at the box office; or the many other ways you can join our friendly team! You can also support us with our programme of creative events by becoming a patron, friend or making a donation! Remember to visit our website to check for our extra events and for ‘Get Involved & Support Us’ info, further event details, access information and more! Don’t forget you can join our mailing list to keep updated too. I look forward to welcoming you to HAC for a creative, entertaining and fun 2025!
Natasha Jones, Artistic Director
Come
Book online: www.helmsleyarts.co.uk
Box Office Call: 01439 771700
Email: boxoffice@helmsleyarts.co.uk
Pop in: Wed- Fri 10am-2pm, Sat 10am-12noon (Sat in term time)
Visit www.helmsleyarts.co.uk/booking for details on concessions and booking terms and conditions. Please note tickets booked online incur a £1.50 booking fee. All tickets are non-refundable.
Make a donation! You can help us by making a small donation when you book your ticket and by signing up to easyfundraising.com to support us while you shop online.
Contact & Enquiries
Email us mail@helmsleyarts.co.uk
Auditorium Seating Plan
Write to us Helmsley Arts Centre, Old Meeting House Court, Helmsley, York, YO62 5DW
Keep up to date - Join our email list to receive up to date event information and see what else is happening at HAC! Sign up via our website or at the box office.
When are we open?
We open our doors, box office and the bar 30 minutes before our events. The box office is open during the day at the above ‘Pop in’ times and our exhibition/studio bar opening times are below.
Our Friday morning Café is open every Friday from 10am-12noon serving freshly ground coffee, a variety of teas and a selection of homemade cakes. The café is run by our wonderful volunteers (including the delicious bakes) and all profits go to funding our events and activities at HAC. Help your local Arts Centre by enjoying a brew and a slice of cake! Please note the café is closed during August.
If you’d like to join our Friday Café team please email our volunteer coordinator Phye volunteering@helmsleyarts.co.uk. We’d love to welcome you to the team!
1812 Theatre Company
The 1812 Theatre Company is our in-house amateur company, with a rich and varied show history, producing four productions and the everpopular 1812 Pantomime each year. We’re always keen to welcome new members. Whatever age, with or without experience, there are many ways you can join in: on or offstage! The 1812 also has a play reading group which is open to all and provides an opportunity to read a variety of scripts.
Call the 1812 secretary Jean Sheridan on 01439 772388
1812 Youth Theatre
The 1812 Youth Theatre provides opportunities for young people aged 5 –18 yrs to participate in weekly drama sessions, workshops and projects with the aim of improving confidence, developing performance skills and working as part of a team and to allow members to explore their own voice, talent and creativity. The groups meet weekly, in term time and each member is encouraged to develop their skills on and off stage with the opportunity to participate in productions throughout the year and learn about the performing arts industry.
For more information on joining 1812 Youth Theatre
Call 1812 Youth Theatre director Natasha Jones 01439 772112
Photo: O Valenghi
Volunteer!
You could be a part of the volunteer team at HAC, meet new people and support your local Arts Centre! Our wonderful volunteers help us to provide a varied programme of events and activities throughout the year by generously donating their time, skills and support.
Our Volunteering opportunities include: Bar Front of House Box Office Exhibitions Friday Café Artist Hosting Maintenance
To find out more about volunteering please contact HAC’s Volunteer Co-ordinator, Phye Bell. Email volunteering@helmsleyarts.co.uk or Call 01439 771704
You’re also welcome to join our monthly Volunteers’ Coffee, Cake and Conversation morning at HAC to find out more and meet other members of the team!
Friends of Helmsley Arts Centre
We are looking for eager volunteers with a passion for the arts to join the Friends of HAC Committe to organise social and fundraising events throughout the year. If you’d like to meet new people, support your local Arts Centre and get involved please contact Natasha director@helmsleyarts.co.uk
To support our work and become a Friend of Helmsley Arts Centre costs just £20 for an annual membership. Contact boxoffice@helmsleyarts.co.uk | 01439 771700 to sign up today!
Take part in our 100 Club Lottery!
For as little as £3 per month you’ll not only be helping HAC but may also win a cash prize in the monthly draw. Winners are announced at the last Friday Cafe of the month.
Entry forms from the Box office or visit www.helmsleyarts.co.uk/get-involved/friends
EXHIBITIONS
NATURE WRITTEN LARGE - ROSEBAY
Tue 4 Mar - Fri 2 May
Pop up exhibition!
THE ART OF WALKING - SARAH CAWTHRAY
Sat 12 Apr, 11am - 4pm & Sun 13 Apr, 11am - 3pm
Under my painting name of Rosebay, I use acrylic markers to create bold, colourful canvases celebrating the unsung corners of the natural world. A small area such as a patch of rock or a clump of wayside plants can become a whole landscape. The everyday scene takes an extraordinary new form as shapes are stylised, sometimes becoming semi-abstract, and colours move at least one step beyond reality.
Instagram - Rosebay4
Facebook - Rosebay Art www.rosebayart.com
In recognition of great friendships, Sarah has explored ideas through her work as a ceramicist by using clay as a metaphor for friendships and the 109-mile, 10 day, Cleveland Way walk. Sarah has created pieces that reflected the landscape, the boulder, the standing stone, but also to resonate with the true meaning of walking with friends and how that impacts on life as a ceramicist.
Traces is a curated body of work exploring metamorphic and abstracted memories of the seascape through photographic medium. The exhibition explores the transience of human experience and place against the backdrop of an interconnected landscape. Rachel’s work is underpinned by the impact of internal perception, memory, time and nostalgia on our human connection and kinship with the ‘out there’ beyond the confines of the human body.
An exhibition about the rhythm of the year: serene, dynamic and joyful, these paintings explore seasonal changes in mood, colour and light.
Ione Harrison is a North Yorkshirebased landscape painter. Creating vibrant, atmospheric paintings, and working primarily in watercolour and ink, Ione’s work explores themes of landscape and the natural world.
Her studio is in Welburn, York YO60 7EP where visits can be made by appointment.
www.ioneharrison.co.uk
For more information on exhibition listings, please visit www.helmsleyarts.co.uk
BALLET - JILL THOMAS SCHOOL OF BALLET
Children’s classes are held on a Saturday in term time from 10am for children 3+, with Mrs Jill Robertson, a qualified and registered teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance.
Ladies’ Class held on a Monday, 11am - 12noon - all standards welcome For more info contact Jill: jillrobertson@hotmail.co.uk 01642 762911
CREATIVE CONNECTIONS WITH HANNAH TURLINGTON
Tuesdays 6pm - 8pm Creative Connections is aimed at supporting people within the local community to develop a creative practice that they can use daily to support and enrich their own mental health and well being. The 2 hourly sessions are a place to learn new creative skills with minimal resources and give an activity that can be done at home between the sessions, encouraging attendees to make some time for themselves away from the session. For more info or to book please email info@hannahturlington.co.uk or call 01439 771700
DIDDY DOODLERS!
Tuesdays 10am - 11.30am
A crafting session for little ones and their adults with experienced teacher Rachel G! For 1-4yrs (younger siblings welcome!). If you can, please bring your own lidded cup for hot drinks. The sessions take place in HAC Studio Bar and include materials and refreshments! Visit www.helmsleyarts.co.uk for more info.
HAC SINGERS
Mondays 7pm - 8.15pm Visit our website for more information on how to sign up! Be part of a friendly and social singing group, meet new people and develop your singing voice with singing leader Jessa Liversidge. The sessions will cover a wide range of music, including pop, folk and other uplifting eclectic styles. There will also be the opportunity to sing at local events and at HAC performances. Whatever your singing ability or experience, you are welcome to take part.
SEATED ZUMBA
Thursdays 1.30pm - 2.30pm Just Happy, Just Healthy, Just Movement. Easy to follow dance routines designed to keep body and mind active. Good fun, good music and great company. Everyone welcome! To book call Anne: 07899 751049 or email: anne@justmovement.co.uk
HARMINIS! WITH KATE TYSON
Fridays in term time | 10am - 11am & 11.15am - 12.15pm
Book your place at www.helmsleyarts.co.uk/classes
Classes are £6.50 per session booked on a termly basis. Sibling rate, £4.50. FREE for babies under 1 when they come with their older sibling!
Have a magical, exciting hour with your child each week at Harminis. A sociable, fun and educational session to help develop early years childhood key skills through music and movement. Harminis offers a chance for you to meet other parents, grandparents and friends while your little one benefits from multi-sensory, musical fun in a supportive and nurturing environment.
For more info contact Kate Tyson 07824738813 kate@harminis.com facebook.com/harminismusic
PILATES WITH NICOLA WILKINSON
Fridays 2pm - 3pm | £50 for block of 5 sessions
Pilates focuses the mind on the body’s physical strength and synchronises movement with breath. Increase your strength, balance and flexibility whilst improving your posture, breath and movement quality. Join Women’s Health Coach Nicola Wilkinson for this empowering Pilates class, designed specifically for women over 40 and focused upon core strength, balance and wellbeing.
To book contact Nicola Wilkinson 07793021155 or email nicola.r.wilkinson@gmail.com
For more information see www.vibrantlyalive.co.uk
RYEDALE WRITERS
Thursdays at 7pm | 20 Mar, 17 Apr, 15 May, 19 Jun, 17 Jul
All writers, at all levels of experience, are welcome. If you are interested in joining Ryedale Writers please email ryedale.writers@gmail.com
YOGA WITH NADJA SCHUTT
Thursdays in term time | 9am - 10.30am | £55 for Block of 5 Sessions £13 per drop in session (Please contact for availability)
Fun, relaxing and uplifting yoga classes for all levels of experience. Enjoy gentle movement, breathing and peace, and go home feeling energised, centred, happy and refreshed.
To book contact Nadja Schutt | 07795 837738 or email: nadjaschutt@gmail.com | www.allaboutfreedom.com
WRONGSEMBLE
THREE LITTLE VIKINGS
Sat 12 Apr 2.30pm £10 / u16 £8
Three brave little Viking girls save the day in this bold and funny adventure story for little rebels, by the creator of the New York Times Best Illustrated Book Little Red and I Can Catch a Monster, Bethan Woollvin. Once upon a time in a Viking village, everything seems to be going wrong. Chickens are disappearing, trees are falling down, and there’s lots and lots of crashing and bashing. The silly Chieftain won’t listen to the three littlest Vikings, but can they work together to figure out what’s going on and save the day? Three Little Vikings is all about cooperation, bravery, and getting your voice heard!
A SKETCHBOOK PARTY ILLUSTRATION & CHARACTER DESIGN
Join us this Easter holiday for another exciting creative workshop with local artist Nicola Hutchinson. This time we will explore the many techniques of drawing and illustration and delve into a world of character creation. All Materials provided, all levels and abilities welcome. Snacks and drinks provided, please dress to get messy. Please visit www.helmsleyarts.co.uk for more info!
FLADAM THEATRE GREEN
FINGERS
Sun 1 Jun 2.30pm £10 / u16 £8
AGE 3-11
It’s Green Fingers first day at school, and nobody has spotted his green hands. But then… GOO! GUNK! GLOOP! Why are they misbehaving? It doesn’t help that heinous headmaster Mr Marigold despises anything dirty… but is something magical going on? Nominated for a BBC POPCORN NEW WRITING AWARD, this Dahl-esque treat has delighted audiences around the country (including a joyous run at GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL 2024). Packed with catchy songs, puppetry and laughs-a-plenty! @fladam.official
Are you ready to embark on a magical artistic journey? Join us at Doodle Fest and prepare to be amazed by the endless possibilities of doodling. With local artist Nicola Hutchinson as your guide, you’ll learn the secrets of creating stunning masterpieces from scratch. All Materials provided, all levels and abilities welcome. Snacks and drinks provided, please dress to get messy. Please visit www.helmsleyarts.co.uk for more info!
QUEER
Wed 5 Mar | 7.30pm
Cast: Daniel Craig, Daan de Wit, Jason Schwartzman
In 1950s Mexico City, an American ex-pat in his late forties leads a solitary life amidst a small American community. However, the arrival of a young student stirs the man into finally establishing a meaningful connection with someone.
A REAL PAIN
Wed 19 Mar | 7.30pm
Cast: Kieran Culkin, Jesse Eisenberg, Olha Bosova
NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE
DR. STRANGELOVE
CO-ADAPTED BY ARMANDO IANNUCCI / CO-ADAPTED & DIRECTED BY SEAN FOLEY
Thu 27 Mar 7pm
£16 / U18
£8
MARIA
Wed 26 Mar | 7.30pm
Cast: Angelina Jolie, Pierfrancesco Favino, Alba Rohrwacher
Maria Callas, the world’s greatest opera singer, lives the last days of her life in 1970s Paris, as she confronts her identity and life.
A COMPLETE UNKNOWN
Wed 2 Apr | 7.30pm
Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Elle Fanning, Monica Barbaro
At the Newport Folk Festival in 1965, a young Bob Dylan shakes up his act on the folk music scene by going electric and siring rock as the voice of a generation - defining one of the most transformative moments in 20th century music.
Mismatched cousins reunite for a tour through Poland to honor their beloved grandmother. The adventure takes a turn when the odd-couple’s old tensions resurface against the backdrop of their family history. HERE
Wed 9 Apr | 7.30pm
Cast: Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Paul Bettany
A generational story about families and the special place they inhabit, sharing in love, loss, laughter, and life.
For full cinema listings & for tickets visit www.helmsleyarts.co.uk
Seven-time BAFTA Award-winner Steve Coogan (Alan Partridge, The Trip) plays four roles in the world premiere stage adaptation of Stanley Kubrick’s comedy masterpiece Dr. Strangelove.
When a rogue U.S General triggers a nuclear attack, a surreal race takes place, seeing the Government and one eccentric scientist scramble to avert global destruction.
This explosively funny satire is led by a world-renowned creative team including Emmy Award-winner Armando Iannucci (The Thick of It, Veep) and Olivier Award-winner Sean Foley (The Upstart Crow, The Play What I Wrote).
ANDRÉ RIEU’S 75TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION: THE DREAM CONTINUES
Sun 13 Apr 7pm
André Rieu celebrates his 75th Birthday! The King of the Waltz invites you to a boat party with him and his beloved Johann Strauss Orchestra as they sail through his hometown of Maastricht.
£16 / U18 £8
This brand-new cinema special is a tribute to André’s childhood dream of one day forming his own orchestra and travelling the world. The film features a selection of André’s favourite and most spectacular global performances along with some of the finest moments the Maestro and his Johann Strauss Orchestra have shared during their many decades together.
ART BY YASMINA REZA
Wed 26 Feb - Sat 1 Mar 7.30pm £12 / u18 £6
Yasmina Reza’s dazzling comedy “Art” translated by Christopher Hampton. Serge has bought a modern, very expensive painting. Marc hates it and cannot believe that a friend of his could possibly want such a work. Yvan attempts to placate both sides. If your friendship is based on tacit mutual agreement, what happens when one person does something completely different? Winner of the Molière Award for Best Play, the Olivier Award for Best New Comedy and a Tony Award for Best Play.
IT’S THE ECONOMY, STUPID!
Fri 7 Mar 7.30pm £15 / JSA £7
Based on a true story of a family caught up in the 90s recession, It’s the Economy, Stupid! reveals the humanity behind economics. Armed with bags, boxes and an old board game, Joe Sellman- Leava and Dylan Howells embark on a quest to uncover how the economy wins elections, and why the force that dominates our lives is so bloody complicated! Developed with and directed by internationally acclaimed Katharina Reinthaller, and produced by Worklight Theatre, It’s the Economy, Stupid! is a bold new play from the Fringe First winning creators of Labels and Fanboy, touring the UK after its sold out, critically acclaimed run at Edinburgh Fringe!
Suggested age suitability 13+.
‘Smart, sharp writing...deftly blends the personal with the political’ ★★★★ Natasha Tripney, Stage
Wed 12 - Fri 14 Mar 7.30pm £10 / u18 £5
When Mia’s dad suffers a traumatic brain injury and struggles to leave the house, she makes it her mission to find the cure for his symptoms. Delving deeper and deeper into the world of neuroscience, Mia is desperate to make him better, but first she must contend with her own brain.
Suggested age suitability:13+
Visit www.helmsleyarts.co.uk for content warnings.
1812 YOUTH THEATRE -
(GROUP 3)
HOW TO BE A KID BY
SARAH MCDONALD-HUGHES
Sat 15 Mar, 2pm and Sun 16 Mar, 2pm & 7pm
Molly cooks. Molly does the dishes. Molly gets her little brother Joe ready for school. Molly is only 12, but she doesn’t feel much like a kid anymore. Now Molly’s Mum is feeling better, maybe things will get back to normal. Can you help Molly learn how to be a kid again? Join Molly, Joe and her Nan for a larger than life story of family, friends and fitting in. Age 7+
DYAD PRODUCTIONS THAT KNAVE, RALEIGH
Sun 6 Apr 7.30pm £16 / u18 £8
A journey through the astonishing highs and lows of one of Britain’s most famous men from history. Father, husband, writer, poet, adventurer, philosopher, soldier, tyrant, egotist, lover, traitor, alchemist, visionary, victim. In a life spanning around 65 years, Sir Walter Raleigh achieved more than others might do in a hundred lifetimes. See the fall from grace taken directly from historical record, marvel at the magnetism of a man who seized every opportunity to create a legacy which spans the centuries and at every wrenching, exalting and personal moment, you will be witnesses. Written and performed by Andrew Margerison and directed by Rebecca Vaughan.
1812 THEATRE COMPANY
MISS MARPLE IN AGATHA CHRISTIE’S
- THE MIRROR CRACK’D
Wed 23 - Sat 26 Apr 7.30pm £12 / u18 £6
In 1960s England, a wind of change is blowing through the land. It has even reached the sleepy village of St Mary Mead. There’s a new housing estate and the village has been thrown into a frenzy by the news that a glamorous American film star has bought the Manor House. Then there is a vicious murder! Miss Marple must unravel a web of lies, tragedy and danger. This adaptation of Agatha Christie’s famous novel brings real emotional depth and psychological insight to a thrilling story of revenge and dark secrets.
WRIGHT&GRAINGER HELIOS Fri 23 May 7.30pm £15 / u18 £10
A lad lives half way up a historic hill. A teenager is on a road trip to the city in a stolen car. A boy is driving a chariot, pulling the sun across the sky. A story about the son of the god of the sun, HELIOS transplants the Ancient Greek tale into a modern-day myth wound round the winding roads of rural England - and into the everyday living of a towering city. It’s a story about life, the invisible monuments we build to it, and the little things that leave big marks.
CLAP TRAP THEATRE IN ASSOCIATION WITH YORK THEATRE ROYAL SWITCHEROO — A STORY
TOLD TWICE
BY BAFTA-NOMINATED TOM NEEDHAM
Sat 31 May 7.30pm £15
When it comes to scattering their mother’s ashes, three siblings are hit with a bombshell revelation that turns their word upside down.
This remarkable play is based on the very simple premise that “it’s not what you say, it’s the way that you say it”. The first act is a pure comedy. Then, after the interval, the characters swap parts and it’s repeated as an emotion packed drama.The difference between the two acts is astonishing. Starring Dominic Goodwin, Cal Stockbridge and Thomas Frere Directed by Paul Birch www.claptraptheatre.com | @claptraptheatre
HOTBUCKLE PRODUCTIONS LITTLE WOMEN
Sat 28 Jun 7.30pm £16 / u18 £8
This beloved classic novel by Louisa May Alcott is given a Hotbuckle make-over in a new adaptation by Adrian Preater. The March sisters’ journey from adolescence to adulthood is navigated through multi-role playing characterisation and imaginative staging as Hotbuckle explore family, love, and the challenges of growing up. With a touch of the highly acclaimed Hotbuckle humour and fast-paced story-telling, 19th Century Massachusetts is brought to life as you’ve never experienced before! www.hotbuckle.co.uk
1812 THEATRE COMPANY
WATSONS BY LAURA WADE
Wed 9 - Sat 12 July 7.30pm £12 / u18 £6
What happens when the writer loses the plot? Emma Watson is 19 and new in town. She’s been cut off by her rich aunt and dumped back in the family home. Emma and her sisters must marry, fast. If not, they face poverty, spinsterhood, or worse: an eternity with their boorish brother and his awful wife. Luckily there are plenty of potential suitors to dance with, from flirtatious Tom Musgrave to castle-owning Lord Osborne, who’s as awkward as he is rich. So far so familiar. But there’s a problem: Jane Austen didn’t finish the story. Who will write Emma’s happy ending now? Based on her incomplete novel, this sparklingly witty play looks under the bonnet of Jane Austen and asks: What can characters do when their author abandons them?
Join us for some theatrical adventures at the beautiful Helmsley Walled Garden!
Gates will open at 6pm with performances starting at 7pm. Bring your chairs, blankets and cushions to sit on. Please come prepared for the weather as performances will continue come rain or shine! We ask that you don’t bring umbrellas as these can obscure the view for other people in the audience. Please feel free to bring picnics and drinks!
THE THREE INCH FOOLS THE MOST PER!LOUS COMEDIE OF ELIZABETH I
Wed 16 Jul 7pm (gates open at 6pm)
Tickets - www.threeinchfools.com
Elizabethan theatre is flourishing. But will a brand-new Tudor musical romp, in which Good Queen Bess takes to the stage herself, be the making of this heroine or spell the beginning of her downfall?
The stage is set for regicidal rivalries, devious dramatics, and plotting playwrights. Beset by misunderstandings and a script that…let’s just say… needs some work, this production aims to be largely historical, always hysterical. As the old saying goes…thy show must go-eth on!
THE
THREE INCH FOOLS
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
Fri 1 Aug 7pm (gates open at 6pm)
Tickets - www.threeinchfools.com
It’s Midsummer’s eve and deep in an enchanted forest mischief is stirring. The Fairy King and Queen are feuding, four runaway lovers are tying themselves in knots, and a troupe of quite appalling actors are preparing a theatrical extravaganza destined to impress. With shapeshifting troublemaker Puck at the helm, the course of true love never did run smooth.
THE PLANDITS
THE SECRET GARDEN
Fri 29 Aug 7pm (gates open at 6pm)
£18 / u18 £12 / Free under 6 / Family £55 Family Friendly Event
Join Mary, Colin and Dickon as they tell you the story of their favourite place in the world - The Secret Garden. A brand new re-imagining of the classic Frances Hodgson Burnett book brought to you by The Plandits. Suitable for anyone aged 6+ who loves literature and the great outdoors, this heartfelt, energetic show is full of original music, puppetry, interaction and laughs. As the three characters discover the transforming power of being active, the magic of nature and the joy of play, we’re sure you’ll leave this performance with a renewed enthusiasm for the world around you!
WELBURN HALL SCHOOLTHE TALENT TROOP
Thu 6 Mar 7pm £5 / u18 £3
Once again, The Talent Troop are taking to the Helmsley Arts Centre stage for our annual variety show. The College KS4 and KS5 learners at Welburn Hall School have been working super hard to put on an exciting show for you all. We believe this is our best show yet. With some fantastic singing, dancing, acting, comedy and even some musical instruments, you can expect a fun filled evening of exceptional talent! There will also be our usual raffle and cake sale (cash only!) in order to raise money for the Performing Arts sector within the school.
HARRIET - TRYING TO GET THE FEELING AGAIN
Sat 8 Mar 7.30pm £23
Due to incredible demand, Harriet has announced more shows on her Trying To Get The Feeling Again Tour, which sees her perform intimate interpretations of her favourite sounds of the 70s, including hits by The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Carole King and The Carpenters, interlaced with her nostalgic original material. This is a unique opportunity to hear Harriet perform songs from the era that inspires her most and share the stories behind her connection to the music. It’s an evening not to be missed!
ALLIGATOR GUMBO
Sat 22 Mar 7.30pm £15 / u18 £7.50
Alligator Gumbo are an exciting 7-piece band playing jazz from the hey-day of the New Orleans swing/jazz era, in particular the “roaring 20s”, when music was raw and largely improvised with melodies and solos happening simultaneously which has now become defined as the ‘New Orleans’ sound. Alligator Gumbo strive to keep this style alive in their renditions of popular songs from this unique time and place.
Suggested age suitability 13+ | www.alligatorgumbo.co.uk
HAC STUDIO BAR OPEN MIC
Sat 29 Mar, Sat 24 May, Sat 26 July 7.30pm Free!
A social evening in HAC’s studio bar with the opportunity to hear local musicians and artists perform.
The bar will be open, serving beer from Helmsley Brewery and Brass Castle Brewery, an assortment of Gins, Wines from Helmsley Wines and more! No need to book to listen or perform, just turn up.
GIGSPANNER TRIO
Thu 3 Apr 7.30pm £22 / u18 £11 Age 12+
“Gigspanner are pushing at the boundaries, and in the process are making some of the most beautiful music the genre has to offer” 5★★★★★ Maverick Magazine.
Described by Folk Radio UK as one of the “most quietly brilliant sets of musicians in the folk world and beyond”, the Gidspanner Trio take selfpenned material along with music rooted in the British Isles and beyond, and with the flick of a bow, a finely chosen chord or slip of a beat, produce richly atmospheric arrangements “with notes seemingly plucked from the stars and rhythms from the equator” (Spiral Earth).
THE REMI HARRIS HOT CLUB TRIO
Sat 5 Apr 7.30pm £20
One of the UK’s most exciting guitarists, Remi Harris is joined by double bassist Tom Moore and rhythm guitarist Chris Nesbitt to present an enthralling evening of Gypsy Jazz and Blues. Combining musical virtuosity with passion and flair, this dynamic trio deliver a mesmerising show inspired by Django Reinhardt, Peter Green, Wes Montgomery, Jimi Hendrix and Joe Pass. The trio features Remi on a variety of acoustic and electric guitars playing an eclectic mix of original compositions, jazz standards and new arrangements of his favourite tunes.
“He’s an absolutely extraordinary musician” Jamie Cullum, BBC Radio 2
SNAKE DAVIS WITH STU COLLINGWOOD
Fri 11 Apr 7.30pm £20
Pianist, composer and vocalist Stu Collingwood will join Snake Davis for this evening of soul pop and jazz. Snake played the sax solos on Lisa Stansfield’s ‘Change’, M-People’s ‘Moving on Up’ and ‘Search for the Hero’, Take That’s ‘Million Love Songs’, and regularly plays huge venues with famous artists. Virtuoso Stu tours with Tony Christie, Joe Longhorn, Alan Barnes and Elaine Delmar, as well as having a residency at Charts in Newcastle. The pair have enjoyed a fruitful and creative partnership over the last 10 years fired by a love of melody and groove.
DC BLUES
Sat 10 May 7.30pm £12
It would be easy to dismiss DC Blues as just another working band on the blues scene, but they are so much more than that. Their self-deprecating front in some ways hides the fact that they are also terrific musicians who just love to put on a great show.
Kieran Thorpe is a French singer-songwriter and novelist, from Toulouse. He has spent the last 10 years travelling and performing across Europe. In 2021, inspired by the likes of James Taylor, Leonard Cohen and noir, existential novelists Pascal Garnier and George Simenon, Thorpe released his debut album A Room With A View, with an accompanying series of short stories. 2025 sees him set out on tour, debuting tracks from a new album, across the UK, France and Germany. www.kieranthorpe.com.
Henry Bird grew up in the North Yorkshire moors, a few miles from Helmsley. A born traveller, classicist, historian, chef and songwriter.
LADY NADE SINGS NINA SIMONE A CELEBRATION OF NINA SIMONE’S LEGACY
Sat 7 Jun 7.30pm £23
Renowned for her distinctive and award-winning vocal prowess, Lady Nade possesses one of the most singular voices in the UK music scene. Nina Simone, an icon and consummate musical storyteller of the twentieth century, left behind a legacy of liberation, empowerment, passion, and love through her extraordinary body of work. This high-energy performance is a heartfelt dedication to recreating the transformative sound that blended popular tunes of the era into a distinctive fusion of jazz, blues, gospel, and folk music. “A pure voice that gets stuck in your mind” - Cerys Matthews BBC Radio 6
QWEEN UK
Sat 21 Jun 7.30pm £18
The premier UK Queen tribute band, consisting of four experienced and professionally seasoned musicians with a shared passion to produce and successfully deliver live, the definitive “Queen live experience” on stage. Through extensive touring in the UK and abroad we ensure that the standard of performance is not compromised but improved, this is a mission statement that the band and our tech crew are passionate about. QWEEN UK’s extensive live repertoire encompasses all the “classic” Queen songs as well as their subtle and much-loved acoustic arrangements respectively.
SNAKE DAVIS WITH CHRIS BANNISTER
Fri 18 Jul 7.30pm £20
Chris is a singer-songwriter-guitarist of immense talent and class. The blend of acoustic guitar and vocals, with Snake’s charm on sax makes for a laid back evening featuring classics such as Stand By Me, Ain’t No Love In The Heart of the City and A Million Love Songs, original songs from both Snake and Chris plus many more. Expect an exhilarating and varied set of wonderful songs, presented with intimacy in a duo setting.
WILD MEADOWS
WATERCOLOUR WORKSHOP WITH IONE HARRISON
Sun 27 Apr 10am - 1pm £60
Create an atmospheric watercolour painting. This workshop is suitable for you whether you have some experience of watercolour and would like to explore new techniques, or are a total beginner. The focus is very much on play and experimentation. Explore fantastic and fun techniques (cling film, masking fluid, spatter) as well as practising wet on wet painting. All materials are provided and included in the price.
FB IoneHarrison Art | @ioneharrison.art | www.ioneharrison.co.uk
Join in one of our short workshops and have a go at willow weaving. Or book onto more than one! Willow hearts are quite simple to make, and you’ll learn how to twine the willow around itself and secure it to create a beautiful heart shape. Next we’ll weave a willow fish and you’ll learn how to do a ‘natural’ weave going back and forth while keeping your fish shape. Finally we’ll make flowers, which involves weaving with two willow rods at the same time.
SHADOWCATCHERS: THE ART OF CAMERALESS PHOTOGRAPHY WITH RACHEL RIMELL
Sun 8 Jun 12.30 - 4.30pm £45
A half day workshop exploring cameraless photography techniques including cyanotypes, lumens and chemigrams, some of which are used in Rachel’s exhibition Traces. What is a photograph? Do you really need a camera? Learn the blueprint to the birth of photography and how to make beautiful photographic images without the need for a camera in this handson practical workshop. No experience necessary. All materials provided.
SEASCAPES
WATERCOLOUR WORKSHOP WITH IONE HARRISON
Sun 29 Jun 10am - 1pm £60
Create an atmospheric watercolour painting. This workshop is suitable for you whether you have some experience of watercolour and would like to explore new techniques, or are a total beginner. The focus is very much on play and experimentation. Explore fantastic and fun techniques (cling film, wax resist, spatter) as well as practising wet on wet painting. All materials are provided and included in the price.
FB IoneHarrison Art | @ioneharrison.art | www.ioneharrison.co.uk
TOM STADE: RISKY BUSINESS
It’s risky business navigating the tightrope of today’s times but Tom’s approaching it with his usual gusto. Join this independent spirit and irrepressible force of nature as he airdrops his unflinching comedy into a never-changing minefield. Without risk there is no reward.
AN AUDIENCE WITH HENRY BLOFELD SHARING MY LOVE OF CRICKET
Fri 21 Mar 7.30pm £27
The legendary cricket broadcaster takes audiences from the modern game of cricket to the great games of yesteryear. Over his 50 years as a commentator, he has seen the game grow into a hugely international sport, it wasn’t always this way. Blowers reflects on how cricket used to be and where it is headed with his incredible wit and insight. Presented in association with Clive Conway Productions.
ATTENTION ALL SHIPPING A CELEBRATION OF THE SHIPPING FORECAST WITH CHARLIE CONNELLY Sat 15 Mar 8pm £21.50
Fri 9 May 7.30pm £18
‘Dogger, Fisher, German Bight’: Charlie Connelly brings the shipping forecast vividly to life in his hilarious and moving celebration of an iconic cultural institution. Charlie explores the broadcast’s remarkable history, unlocks its beguiling mysteries and tells rip roaring stories of his own adventures among the sea areas, ensuring the forecast will never sound the same again.
THE ARTS SOCIETY - HELMSLEY
A varied programme of fascinating illustrated lectures, given by entertaining and knowledgeable professional speakers. £30 joining fee and £10 per lecture | 7.30pm (doors 7pm)
For Arts Society information contact fionajlovell@gmail.com www.theartssocietyhelmsley.org
Mon 3 Mar, 7.30pm Isabella Bird: A Victorian lady traveller in the East
Mon 7 Apr, 7.30pm St Pancras Station
Mon 12 May, 7.30pm Torrentius: Lost Master of the Dutch Golden Age
Mon 2 Jun, 7.30pm George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham
Coming up in Autumn 2025
Harriet - Trying To Get The Feeling Again ............................................ 8 Mar | Music
Helmsley Literary Festival ............................................................... 12-14th Sep
Christina Alden & Alex Patterson ............................................. Fri 19 Sep, Music
Dyad Productions: Lady Susan ............................................. Sun 21 Sep, Theatre
Snake Davis.............................................................................. Fri 26 Sep, Music
Imogen Cooper ......................................................... Sat 27 Sep, Classical Music
Alchemy Live .............................................................................. Fri 4 Oct, Music
Willow Weaving - Trees & Stars .......................................... Sun 5 Oct, Workshop
Hejira - Celebrating Joni Mitchell .............................................. Sat 8 Nov, Music
Willow Weaving - Angels .................................................. Sun 9 Nov, Workshop
Ensemble 360 ......................................................... Sun 16 Nov, Classical Music
RANT ........................................................................................ Fri 21 Nov, Music
Our rooms can be hired for rehearsals, meetings, parties, workshops and many other events!
The Main Theatre has an intimate, friendly atmosphere with exceptional acoustics. The raked seating can accommodate 138 (inc two wheelchair spaces) with a stage area and a full size cinema screen with digital projection facilities. A Steinway Model A is also available for performances. The floor area is 7.5m (25’) x 7m (23’). Height from floor to ceiling 6m (20’).
The Dorothy Morley Room is an excellent light and spacious room perfect for meetings, talks, classes and small dance/movement groups. It can accommodate 30 people theatre style or 20 boardroom style.
The Studio Bar is a multi-purpose room with a bar and courtyard garden. The space is used for exhibitions, meetings, yoga, ballet, parties, workshops, small scale theatre, a weekly cafe and more! East facing French doors open out onto a courtyard garden.
For more information on hiring spaces at HAC visit www.helmsleyarts.co.uk/hire where you can read about our facilities and download hire forms or contact Karen Gosney on 01439 771715 or email generalmanager@helmsleyarts.co.uk
The Jean Kershaw Auditorium
The Dorothy Morley Room
There are many ways you can get involved and help secure our future:
Donate
- Add a donation to your ticket purchase - to support our work
- Make a regular donation via our website or box office - be a part of a community giving back
- Become a Patron - a regular donor making a huge difference
- Become a sponsor - sponsor an event, a production, Youth Theatre, Panto…
- Name a Seat - personalise your very own seat in the auditorium
- Leave a legacy gift - a gift for future generations
- Host a fundraising event - a sponsored sing, a gala dinner, an art competition…
- Join www.easyfundraising.co.uk - shop online to support us!
Gift Aid
As a registered charity (1058130) Helmsley Arts Centre can claim Gift Aid on donations. If you are a UK tax payer, for every £1 you give, we can claim an extra 25p from HMRC. Every penny really counts!
Get Involved
You can support us in our work, and be an active member of your community by offering your time and skills as a volunteer at HAC. You could meet new people, enjoy a friendly, social environment and reap the wellbeing benefits of being part of your local Arts Centre. If front of house volunteering isn’t for you, consider supporting our marketing, trustees or Friends of HAC. Or perhaps you’d be interested in joining the 1812 Theatre company, building sets or joining the costume team? There are so many opportunities to get involved and we’d love to welcome you to the team.
Fundraising
Could you help us meet our annual fundraising need of £80,000? Whether it’s organising fundraising events, contacting corporate sponsors, supporting our advertising or becoming a voice of support for HAC at local events we’d love to hear from you and have your support!
