WHAT’S ON

The Blind Exit by Conor Harrington Vanguard: Bristol Street Art

Katy J Pearson

n Throughout August, M Shed From anarchist origins in the ’80s and ’90s through to the explosion of the scene in the early ’00s, this exhibition brings together one of the largest collections of original works and memorabilia ever seen in the UK. The show examines the creative response of the city’s pioneering underground scene throughout the UK’s turbulent social and political history and reflects on how a new generation of global creatives are advocating for social and environmental awareness through art on the streets. bristolmuseums.org.uk

n Throughout August, The Ken Stradling The swinging Sixties are back in focus this month at The Ken Stradling Collection, where there’s a brand new exhibition. Running until 25 September, ‘The Future Is Here: The Swinging Sixties’ explores the futuristic feel of the decade through design in the home. Whether you’re old enough to remember the era or young enough to only imagine its grooviness, head to this exhibition if you’re keen to explore designs by the women and men who devoted their lives to creating new and lively products to delight people in their homes. stradlingcollection.org

n Throughout August, M Shed A year since the Edward Colston statue was removed during protests in the centre of Bristol, the city is being asked what should happen to it next. The exhibit is part of a temporary display with a survey drafted by the We Are Bristol History Commission, canvassing citizens’ views on the future of the statue. The statue itself sits alongside a selection of placards from the Black Lives Matter protest of that day as well as a timeline of key events. bristolmuseums.org.uk

n 1 –14 August, various locations Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is holding a ‘Fiesta Fortnight’ instead of its annual event at Ashton Court Estate. Determined to continue to put on a show for the city, the Fiesta will deliver a number of launches during the first two weeks of August. These events will be designed for members of the public to enjoy at a distance, from the safety of their own homes and communities. Keep an eye on Bristol International Balloon Fiesta’s website for more details. bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk

n 5 –29 August, Bristol Beacon Bristol Beacon presents its sixth year of Terrace Sessions, and this year it’s a full month of free and ticketed parties featuring the absolute cream of party-organisers from Bristol and beyond, all on Bristol Beacon’s sun-drenched terrace, looking out over the city. Taking place from Thursdays to Saturdays throughout August, each session starts straight after clocking off time at 6pm for the ultimate weekend party vibes. So head on over, crack open a beer and soak up some summer rays. bristolbeacon.org

n 6 August, St George’s Bristol In June 2021, the stylish bassist and composer Greg Cordez released his third album Magnolia on Ropeadope Records. For this performance, Cordez is joined by a stellar line-up: Rebecca Nash (on keys), Nicholas Dover (on saxophone), Steve Banks (on guitar), Andrew Bain (on drums). stgeorgesbristol.co.uk

n 11 –30 August, Bristol Cathedral Over its lifetime, the Museum of the Moon is being presented in a number of different ways both indoors and outdoors, so as to alter the experience and interpretation of the artwork. As it travels from place to place, it gathers new musical compositions and an ongoing collection of personal responses, stories and mythologies, as well

Picnic Prom with Classico Latino at Iford Festival

as highlighting the latest moon science. The moon will be on display in the crossing of Bristol Cathedral from 11 August to 30 August. bristol-cathedral.co.uk

n 12 August, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery Whether you’re looking for a beautifully unique classical music performance or a romantic candlelit experience, this performance is for you. You don’t need to know all things Chopin to enjoy the evening –simply sit back and savour the atmosphere and stunning pieces you’ll hear. Walk into one of Bristol’s emblematic buildings where the walls will be flickering with magical candlelight. Prepare to be taken into the clouds with Chopin’s most treasured masterpieces. feverup.com

n 21 August, Belcombe Court The Iford Festival is returning to the gorgeous 18th-century grounds of Belcombe Court on 21 August. Rarely open to the public, the Grade I listed house is set in 60 acres of glorious formal gardens, parkland and woodland, and the organisers are taking full advantage of the outdoors for this exciting series of events in a spectacular saddlespan structure, starting with an everpopular evening picnic prom. ifordarts.org.uk

n From 25 August, Bristol Hippodrome Disney proudly invites you to be its guest as possibly the most enchanted musical of all time returns to the UK stage. Spectacularly reimagined using the latest theatrical innovations, this beloved ‘tale as old as time’ will be brought to life on stage like never before. atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome

n 25 & 26 August, The Louisiana The Louisiana is welcoming Katy J Pearson for two intimate sessions this August. Influenced by western Americana, her powerful voice and impressive songwriting talent has seen her become one of the UK’s most talked-about rising stars. If you haven’t seen it yet, check out Katy’s music video for her track Miracle from her debut album, Return. Katy recruited comedian Joe Lycett to direct the wonderfully surreal video. thelouisiana.net