Step into Spring
Ilminster Arts Centre makes it easier to book concert tickets.
Booking concert tickets at Ilminster Arts Centre has never been easier, following the introduction of a new online reservation system for performances from April onwards.
The community arts charity has teamed up with Eventbrite, the well-established online booking system, to enable concert-goers to buy tickets 24/7 on their mobile phones or laptops, rather than having to phone or email and only being able to book during opening hours. However, phone and email options will still be available for those who prefer them, and for customers without computers.
To mark the launch of its online ticketing and to encourage a wider demographic, Ilminster Arts Centre has also introduced discounted £5 concert tickets for students and free entry to performances for children of 12 years old and under, accompanied by an adult. It has also decided to absorb the standard booking fee into its normal prices, so concert-goers don't have to pay extra for the convenience of online booking.
To book your place at a performance either visit our website anytime, telephone 01460 54973 or book in person (9.30am - 3pm, Tuesday - Saturday).
Music fans can look forward to lots of great live music this Spring! April's programme includes two consecutive bumper weekends of performance on both Friday and Saturday evenings.
On Friday, 14 April there's an all-star line up with Graham Smith's Shades of Jazz. The band's popularity has grown significantly since its formation in 2015, playing festivals and clubs across the UK. However, as the musicians are very much in demand playing in other ensembles, an opportunity to get them together for a Shades gig is a rare bonus not to be missed! You can expect a varied selection of Dixieland, Revivalist, Trad, Swing and popular jazz tunes with dazzling instrumentals.
The following day, 15 April, the Arts Centre hosts an imaginative new one-woman play inspired by Rosalie Chichester (1865-1949), a scientist, collector, photographer and unapologetic eccentric who lived in Arlington Court in North Devon. The 'Rosalie' performance is presented by Exmoor-based Pleasure Dome Theatre in partnership with the National Trust and stars Helena Payne.
The next weekend showcases the classical music talents of the five-strong Ensemble Molière in a performance presented by Concerts in the West on Friday, 21 April. The musicians provide memorable and creative programmes from the repertoire of the 17th and 18th centuries, all performed on historical instruments.
On Saturday, 22 April the Gaz Hughes Trio offer modern jazz from an all-star line up. Renowned jazz drummer and band leader Gaz Hughes presents his new album, ‘Beboptical Illusion’, drawing inspiration from Bebop, Latin, New Orleans, Avant-garde, Modal influences and more, culminating in a unique and memorable sound.
The month culminates in 'Triple Standards' with the Basil Hodge Trio on 28 April. This tight-knit, hard-swinging jazz trio, with Basil Hodge on piano, Mirko Scarcia on double bass and Matt Fishwick on drums, has entertained crowds throughout the UK. Basil's enchanting compositions are complemented by choice standards from the American Songbook.
In the Gallery, visitors can enjoy a truly inspiring and joyous exhibition called 'Uplifted by Nature', from 4 to 29 April. It features the work of three artists - Mandi Baykaa-Murray, David Wittner and Martin Rumary - and their creative responses to the natural world.
And, in the main hall, from 2 to 13 May, we'll be 'Celebrating the Coronation' by displaying work from local school children to mark the Coronation of King Charles III.
Entry to the Arts Centre and its Gallery is free of charge.
Wanted: New Chair of Trustees
Ilminster Arts Centre is seeking a new Chair of its Board of Trustees. Should you wish to make a positive difference to the cultural life of the community and work with some brilliant volunteers, please click for more information and details on how to apply.