A Summer Of Music & Song
Friday nights in Ilminster have become renowned for high quality live music - and this summer is no exception as the arts centre offers performances to suit all tastes.
There's a fantastic selection of jazz, classical, folk and popular music to choose from, plus a number of special one-off performances like 'Magellan's Circumnavigation' on 22 July, which tells the 500-year-old story, in songs and words, of an amazing voyage of adventure and discovery around the world.
On 19 August the arts centre presents A Tribute to Andrea Bocelli & The Italian Tenor. Virtuoso tenor Tim Pitman, known as 'The Voice of Somerset', accompanied by Duo Paradis - cellist Linda Stocks and pianist Jacquelyn Bevan - will sing some of the best-known arias from Italian opera, such as Nessun Dorma, alongside songs written or performed by Andrea Bocelli.
A week later, on 26 August, two of the UK's best sax performers - Alex Garnett and Alison O'Neale - are in town, supported by the Craig Milverton Trio.
And the following month, on 23 September, don't miss a special tribute to the music of David Bowie. Five-man group Bowie Fashion will ensure an unforgettable evening of Bowie's best loved hits.
Full details are available at ilminsterartscentre.com
Before every concert, usually from 6.30pm (as well as during the interval), light suppers, cakes and teas & coffees are available from the café. More substantial hot meals can be booked a day in advance by calling the café direct on 07872 493300.
There's also a cash bar to get you in the mood, offering a selection of ales, cider and wines, as you enjoy the exhibitions on display in the Gallery before the performance starts and during the interval.
The Gallery also has a busy programme of free-to-enter exhibitions showcasing the top artistic talent in the South West. Don't miss it!
Until 5 August, the best work from Ilminster Arts Centre's 2022 Open Exhibition is on display, covering genres such as paintings, original prints, drawings, sculpture, ceramics and textiles.
Should you want to learn a new craft or improve your artistic abilities, there is a host of workshops to choose from with expert tuition provided by skilled craft makers. Creative classes include watercolours, pastels, drawing, clay & sculpture, rag rug, sewing and mixed media.
Of particular note is a six-week Exploring Oils workshop from 7 September and an Exploring Ink class from 8 September, both tutored by Margaret Micklewright.
With so much going on it's no surprise that the arts centre is looking for extra volunteers to ensure its activities go from strength to strength. So, if you've got time to spare and wish to contribute to the community email iacvolunteers@outlook.com or ring 01460 54973. Support is sought in a number of roles - in the garden, as a gallery steward, on the front desk or in the office.