*Ishmael Ensemble. SVA Goods Shed, Fri 27th*

Looking to celebrate Halloween this weekend in Stroud? GOP’s got you covered…Some halloween themed. Some not. Plenty of ace music, art, theatre, poetry and parties going on this weekend in this great little district of ours…

THE ALE HOUSE
SAT 28TH Jim Reynolds
Jim Reynolds is a guitarist and singer who writes and plays an eclectic mix of music. The individual pieces tap into blues, ragtime, rhythm and blues, music hall and folk traditions. Some are extremely sensitive songs about life, people and relationships, while others are tongue in cheek. His albums are also sprinkled with classics from the likes of J.J. Cale, Nick Drake, John Martyn, Roy Orbison, the Inkspots, Jelly Roll Morton and Jimmy Rogers. 8:30pm Free
thealehousestroud.com

THE BAPTIST HALL
SAT 28TH Folk and Tradition: Art and Craft In A Contemporary World
To run alongside Lily Cheetham’s exhibition at Weven there will be a panel discussion looking at the difference between art, craft, feminism and domesticity in textile and patchwork. Speakers include Lily Cheetham, Nell Leyshon (novelist and playwright), Bridget Christie (Comedian) and Laura Moseley (Craft researcher and editor Common Threads Press). There will also be singing from Broadside ballad singer Jennifer Reid and some live contemporary Morris dancing from Boss Morris. 7:30-9pm £21 from Weven
weven.co.uk

*Dog Of Man, The Crown and Sceptre, Fri 27th*

THE CROWN AND SCEPTRE
FRI 27TH Dog Of Man, Cotswold Trash
Dog of Man are a psych punk explosion originating from Brighton UK. Formed in 2016 they quickly made a name for themselves in the Brighton alternative scene with their fresh and distinctive take on heavy party music. Heavy grooves and infectious rhythms are turbo charged with the powerful sunshine pleasures of a distorted electric accordion. Shredding and playful licks of lightning guitar play around the tight bass parts and the band jump from punk and grunge pop to jungle and salsa rhythms and beyond. No stranger to whipping up parties & festival crowds into a frenzy. Dog of Man have performed in festivals all over Europe including Balter, Supernormal, ADM fest, Goulash Disko etc. Always morphing the crowd into a sweaty mass of people grinning from ear to ear..With support from Cotswold Trash. 8:30pm
crownandsceptrestroud.com

GALGOS LATINO
SAT 28TH Galgos Latino’s Day of the Dead Celebration
Brace yourself for a night full of culture, dancing, meals, music and so much more as they celebrate and remember loved ones with the Day of the Dead…Ft a four hour DJ set by Monobrow (Sound Records) . 8pm
galgos.co.uk

THE GOLDEN FLEECE
SAT 28TH DJ Mendoza Halloween Sessions
DJ Mendoza returns to the Golden Fleece for his annual Halloween Sessions…Dress up or down. Evil sounds from all around. 9pm - 12am Free
goldenfleecepub.co.uk

THE HOG AT HORSLEY
SAT 28TH Halloween Party @ The Hog
Fancy dress strongly encouraged! Prizes for best dressed! 7pm £5 (includes disco and buffet) hoghorsley.com

*Nick Cave by Romi Mori, Klang Tone Records*

KLANG TONE RECORDS
FRI 27TH OCT - SAT 18TH NOV Romi Mori: Photography Exhibition
Romi, played bass for The Gun Club, psychobilly punk legends! She’s also an exceptional photographer and we’ll be showing a selection of her live documentation work and portraits of musicians in her circle including Jeffery Lee Pierce, Nick Cave, Kid Congo Power amongst others. Opening night Fri 27th with DJ Simon Spedding the decks playing a selection of psychobilly and punk records Weds-Sat 10:30am-5:30pm
instagram.com/klang_tone_records

LANSDOWN HALL
WEDS 25TH - SUN 29TH Stroud Artists Cooperative: Winter Exhibition
This is one of SAC’s Open Exhibitions, so all their members get the opportunity to have work on display - this tends to make these exhibitions vibrant; dynamic and fun! Come along and browse some excellent art from local artists - the range of styles and talent is astonishing and promises to be an entertaining visit! 10am-4pm, Fri 27th late viewing 6-9pm
SUN 29TH Stroud Arts Festival Presents: Silent Film - Diary Of A Lost Girl
Silent film with live music – why is it such a good night out? Ask last year’s Stroud audience – it’s the sheer, extraordinary talent of Elizabeth-Jane Baldry! This year Stroud Arts Festival welcome her back to the Lansdown Hall with another iconic black and white silent film, powerfully enhanced by her specially composed score which she plays live throughout the screening. A late masterpiece of the silent era, and a tragic story of corruption and middle class hypocrisy in pre-Nazi Germany, this film and its star, Louise Brooks, has gained cult status with film-lovers through the ages. 6:30pm £10
MON 30TH The Cotswold Jugglers Present: Love Circus
A cabaret night dripping with homegrown circus performers, edible treats and licenced bar. Produced, directed and performed in Stroud. Featuring treats from incredible local chef (pre order only) and special Halloween cocktail. Halloween costumes encouraged - plus an award for best dressed. Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 7.30pm. VIP Tickets (front row tables, includes VIP Snack Box and complementary drink) £25 each/Standard Seated Ticket £15 each
lansdownhall.org

MINCHINHAMPTON MARKET HOUSE
SAT 28TH Shakespeare’s Fool
Will Kempe was one of the finest performers of the Elizabethan age. Gentleman player, juggling jester, headmaster of Morris dancers and London’s finest clown. Until, that is, he fell out with Will ‘git-face’ Shakespeare. Kempe died alone and poverty stricken, not far from the original Globe Theatre, of which he was an original shareholder and faded into obscurity, a world away from his former life of superstardom. Join him on the streets of London as he gives his final performance to an audience of a mouse and a marotte and tells the tale of his life, his rise to stardom and what really happened between him and William Shakespeare. A bittersweet tale, told by an idiot. £15 7:30pm
minchinhamptonmarkethouse.co.uk

THE MUSEUM IN THE PARK
THURS 28TH Poetry Night: David Clarke, Alicia Stubbersfield, Jo Casling, James Dick, Eley Furrell and Sean Roe
The Field in Winter, the third collection of poetry by David Clarke, winner of the Michael Marks Award, elegantly reflects on memory, time, and the very particular landscape of loss, in a calendar of poems, a ‘charm of words’ that track and loop through seasons of nature and living; it is published by Nine Arches Press. Alicia Stubbersfield will read a second selection from her recent book, Enigma Machine, which deals with personal and family history in finely managed poems. In the second half, there will be a collaborative performance of nothing springs to mind, a spoken work performance for three voices and incidental music, by Jo Casling, James Dick, Eley Furrell and Sean Roe. 7:30-9:45pm Free entry. Refreshments. Books for sale. All welcome. No need to pre-book.
museuminthepark.org.uk

*Ren Harvieu, the Prince Albert, Sun 29th*

THE PRINCE ALBERT
SAT 28TH Halloween Karaoke
The Albert are inviting all to dress up and come and perform on their stage for the Karaoke Night that you know you really want to come to. All welcome. Prize for the best dressed performer on the night. 7:30pm Free
SUN 29TH Ren Harvieu, Felix Holt, the Crooked Penny
A very special night hosted by Milligan Beaumont, Lorna Bamsey and Nina Margaretha with Salford chanteuse Ren Harvieu headlinging. Ren Harvieu is a darkly enigmatic singer/songwriter from Salford, Manchester. Ren has enjoyed considerable success with her two album releases: 'Through The Night' showcased her supple yearning voice, leaning towards 60's pop, country and soul, while her follow-up, 'Revel In The Drama' ( Bella Union ) painted a uniquely evocative lyrical world both heartbreakingly honest and fantastical. Her sound finding many new colours. She has performed with an eclectic array of artists including the legendary Tom Jones, US rapper Nas and with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra. She's currently putting the finishing touches to her new album with songwriting partner Romeo Stodart of The Magic Numbers. It promises to be something truly special judging by the recent live shows with her exciting band of multi instrumentalists.The evening also features special ghosts Felix Holt, haunting melodies from the Crooked Penny and much much more…7pm £14/£9concs
theprincealbertstroud.co.uk

THE STAR INN
FRI 27TH - SAT 28TH Star Inn Spooktacular
Spooky Season is back yet again! This year the Star Inn will be hosting yet another Halloween Party Weekend. On Friday the King of Halloween himself, Bert Harris will be hosting a Killer Karaoke night - with a trick or treat twist! On Saturday 28th KAOS, the legendary Stroud rockers return doing rock covers of all variety - they went down a storm last time so don’t miss out! Halloween fancy dress is encouraged all weekend. Prizes for best fancy dress available. Deals on drinks, spooky cocktails, free bar treats and more!
No tickets - just come in and enjoy yourselves…
starinnwotton.co.uk

ST LAURENCE CHURCH
FRI 27TH Acapellies Community Choir: Sanctuary
Acapellies Choir is a community choir from Stroud directed by Eleanor Holliday (Natural Voice Network), and they have been singing together for over 7 years. They specialise in traditional unaccompanied polyphonic songs from around the world; creating a truly unique, immersive choral experience for their audience. Their previous work 'The Gratitude Project', was created during the pandemic, rehearsed outdoors, and received great acclaim in 2021. This was followed by their most recent project, 'Songs of Fortitude', which was focused on a communal feeling of resilience, hope and support during these complex times we live in. They are now performing their new choral work - ‘Sanctuary’' in the epic surroundings of St Laurence Church...7:30pm Cash donations (towards the church roof)
stlaurencefuture.org.uk

STONEHOUSE COMMUNITY CENTRE
SAT 28TH Hallowqueens
A spooktacular evening at HallowQueens, a thrilling event filled with frights and delights! Get ready to embrace the Halloween spirit like never before. Prepare to be amazed by spine-chilling performances, wickedly creative costumes, and hauntingly good music. This event promises a night of wicked fun and unforgettable memories. Whether you're a witch, vampire, or ghost, come dressed in your most bewitching attire and compete in our costume contest for a chance to win fabulous prizes! Don't miss out on this thrilling extravaganza! Grab your friends and get ready for a night of hair-raising excitement at HallowQueens. 7:30pm Pay-What-You-Can
stonehousecommunitycentre.co.uk

STROUD BREWERY
FRI 27TH Halloween Zombie Party With Dub Catalyst and DJ Tommy P
Vibes that’ll wake the dead! Get ready to embark on a genre-defying sonic voyage with Dub Catalyst, a reggae hip hop band that's redefining the boundaries of musical expression. Infusing the soulful rhythms of reggae with the urban pulse of hip hop, Dub Catalyst brings an electrifying energy to every stage they grace. DJ Tommy P has been bringing vibes to dancefloors all over our nation for a while now. From running nights with 'Dub from Above' to his own brand Champion Roots. Expect heavy Dub with a mix of digital reggae, roots and dancehall. Zombie theme encouraged! 7pm £10
stroudbrewery.co.uk

THE SUB ROOMS
FRI 27TH Stroud Arts Festival Presents: The London Tango Quintet
The London Tango Quintet, drawn together by a love of the tango, first formed in 2007 and has gained international acclaim for its performances of music by legendary Argentinian composer Astor Piazzola, interspersed with music from the baroque to the contemporary. Founder and director David Juritz, describing the first time he heard Piazolla’s music, says “It was mind-blowing. A kaleidoscope of conflicting emotions and a raw energy I’ve never heard surpassed in any other kind of music.” Chart topping guitar virtuoso, Craig Ogden, is joined by accordionist, Miloš Milivojević, described by the Times as ‘a hurricane of musical invention’. Pianist/composer David Gordon tours as a jazz musician,harpsichordist and director of internationally renowned ensembles while bassist, Richard Pryce, works with artists from Jamie Cullum to Shirley Bassey. Come and share the passion of the tango with these 5 superbly talented musicians – and we promise to give you at least one opportunity to get up on your feet! 6:30pm £20
SAT 28TH Stroud Arts Festival Presents: Will Todd’s Mass In Blue & Duke Ellington’s Sacred Concert
A wonderful evening to celebrate two composers whose skill of weaving choral and jazz together brings us an exciting and inspiring night of sacred music. Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington (1899 – 1974) was a true giant of the Jazz Age and beyond whose influence has continued through generations of jazz musicians. Always a religious man, Ellington wrote Three Sacred Concerts in the 1960s claiming that they were “personal, not career” and that they are ‘the most important thing I have ever done. Conducted by Paul McLaughlin. Originally from Dundee, now living in Stroud, Paul is a choral singer, jazz musician, teacher and conductor. He feels he has found his home in the sacred music of Duke Ellington and Will Todd and is delighted to be performing at the Stroud Arts Festival this year. Joined by the fantastic soprano, Nina Bennet and dancer Luc Bailey, the uplifting music of Duke Ellington perfectly complements Will Todd’s beautiful and exciting setting of the mass. The evening starts at 7pm with Will Todd in conversation with Paul McLaughlin. An opportunity to hear a composer discussing his work and inspiration before the performance. The conversation will run from 7pm to approximately 7.20pm when there will be a short break before the performance of Ellington’s Sacred Concert at 7.30pm. The specially formed Community Choir joins the stage in the second half of the evening for Will Todd’s Mass in Blue. 6:30pm £20
SUN 29TH I Believe In Unicorns
Award-winning storyteller Danyah Miller brings best-selling children’s author Michael Morpurgo’s treasured story to life. This intimate show is set in a library full of books that hold more than stories within their pages. Also features a book swap in which children can bring a book to make up part of the set, then swap this book with another when they leave. 2pm and 4pm £11.50
thesubrooms.co.uk

*Hailu Mergia, SVA Goods Shed, SAT 28TH*

SVA GOODS SHED
FRI 27TH Dubkasm meets Ishmael Ensemble and Rider Shafique
Ishmael Ensemble return with another mighty south-west link up this time handing the controls to dub & roots music legends Dubkasm to celebrate the release of their collaborative EP "In A Dub Style" with Rider Shafique. As soon as Ishmael Ensemble finished their collaborative ‘New Era’ EP with Rider Shafique, bandleader Pete Cunningham knew he wanted to have it remixed in the classic dub-style; and who better to enlist than Bristol’s finest, DJ Stryda & Digistep aka Dubkasm. Following in the well worn footsteps of dub legends such as King Tubby, Mad Professor & Scientist - Dubkasm rework and authentically dub the original recordings and warp them into a sound-system ready collection of heavy hitting, deep sonic explorations complimented perfectly by Rider’s iconic voice and potent, thought provoking lyricism. Expect DJ Sets, live instrumentation and dubbing, poetry, exclusive merch and a pop-up Record Store. 8:30pm £6early bird (sold out)£8/£10
SAT 28TH Hailu Mergia
Acclaimed keyboardist Hailu Mergia, from Ethiopia’s ‘golden age’ group the Walias Band returns to Stroud.The story of Hailu Mergia is one of survival and a late justice for years spent in exile: The maestro, once the leader of 1970es Addis Ababa's favourite dance band Walias, emigrated to the US after the Mengistu regime came into political power at home in Ethiopia. After running several businesses he ended up driving a cab at Washington's Dulles Airport, while still practising his keyboard chops on the back seat of his vehicle while downtimes. In 2013 Hailu returned to the live music circuit after the blogger-turned-label-owner Brian Shimkovitz of Awesome Tapes From Africa had found him to reissue his 1986 unusual, multi-tracked solo effort His Classical Instrument. "If Cluster had been from Ethiopia instead of Germany, this is probably about what they would have sounded like", wrote Pitchfork, celebrating the album. Helming a trio with a badass rhythm section, he played numberless sold-out clubs shows and appeared at prominent festivals. It is safe to say that the revitalized interest in Mergia's laid-back Ethio grooves culminated after he released his comeback album "Lala Belu" early in 2018: The composer was featured in leading newspapers like the New York Times and The Guardian and played more than 70 shows all across Europe in a timespan of no more than 14 months. In March Lala Belu's successor Yene Mircha hit the streets and easily proved that, at 73, this seasoned musician has still a few amazing tricks up his sleeve. 7:30pm £12-£15adv/£18otd (Goods Shed)
sva.org.uk

SVA JOHN STREET GALLERY
FRI 20TH - SAT 28TH Zoe Benbow: Doorstep Wilderness
Zoe Benbow presents a solo exhibition of paintings that take the subject of trees as their starting point. Trees represent an accessible wilderness on our doorstep and these paintings also reference distant landscapes remembered in an urban context, employing a poetic more than representational interpretation of the subject. Thurs 26th - Sat 28th 10am-3pm. Meet the Artist Gallery Talk Thurs 26th 6pm.
sva.org.uk

THREE STOREYS
TUES 24TH - SUN 29TH Four Friends, Four Styles: Joint Exhibition
A joint exhibition of paintings by four friends who each express themselves through a different style of painting.
threestoreys.co.uk

TWO BEDFORD STREET
FRI 13TH OCT - SAT 4TH NOV Sue Brisco: Plants In Ink
Researching and experimenting with botanical ink-making Sue Brisco’s work delves into the world of alchemy, archival recipes and new ways of engaging with nature. Chemistry evolves through an art/science-eco investigation into plants and their colour. The selected work in the exhibition is part of an Art-Science Arts Council funded project.
cococaravan.co.uk/cacao-circle

WEVEN
FRI 27TH OCT - SUN 5TH NOV Lily Cheetham: Piecework
An exhibition of original and rich work which is a meeting of traditional folk craft and contemporary visual art. Lily's family and heritage is steeped in sewing and crafts, and she is exploring and subverting the two worlds she inhabits. The work is mixed media and includes textile work, sewn paper, patchwork and stained glass. Open evening Fri 27th 6-8pm
weven.co.uk

UNDER THE EDGE ARTS WOTTON-UNDER-EDGE
SAT 28TH Blind Justice Page
Blind Justice Page are all about celebrating the roots of Americana music, performing songs from and inspired by the golden age of old-time music and country-blues. 8pm £9/£7concs
utea.org.uk

GOP Guide To A Halloween Weekend In Stroud