What’s On Magazine -
Events in East Sussex & Kent plus major London exhibitions
Mon. 28th April - 3rd May - Dads Army
At The Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne. Eves: 7.45pm. Wed. and Sat. Mats: 2.30pm. Lovingly recreated for the stage this new production, which stars Leslie Grantham (EastEnders), breathes new life into the hilarious misadventures of our Home Guard platoon in their fictional South Coast town of Walmington-on-Sea. Tickets £13.50 to £19.50. 01323 412000.
Mon. 28th April - 2nd May - Shout! The Swinging 60’s Musical
At The Congress Theatre, Eastbourne. Eves: 7.30pm. Thurs. Mat: 2.30pm. STARRING CLAIRE SWEENEY & SU POLLARD. Featuring the pop anthems Downtown, Son Of A Preacher Man, I Only Wanna Be With You, These Boots Are Made For Walking, You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me and many more. Twist and shout your way around swinging London with our ‘fab five’ as they discover the fashion, freedom, fun and music that inspired original girl power. Tickets £11.50 to £20.50. 01323 412000.
Mon. 28th April - 3rd May - South Pacific
At The Theatre Royal Brighton. Eves: 7.45pm. Thurs. and Sat. Mats: 2.30pm. Stars Dave Willetts and Helena Blackman. 08700 606 650.
Thurs. 1st - Fri. 2nd May - The Last Resort
At The Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 8pm. Tickets £12.95. A satire about greed ambition and redemption in a style best described as ‘Spitting Image meet the Brothers Grimm’. A darkly comic tale told with masks, puppets and live music. www.strangeface.co.uk. See page 42 for details. 01892 678678.
Thurs. 1st May - Playhouse Disney Live
At The Brighton Centre with Mickey Mouse and all his friends. 0870 900 9100.
Thurs. 1st - 3rd May - Hello Dolly
At Battle Memorial Hall. Eves: 7.30pm. Sat. Mat: 2.30pm. Performed by the Battle Light Opera Group. Tickets £8.00 to £9.00 from Battle Tourist Information or on 01424 211140. See main advertisement and feature on page 40.
Sat. 3rd - 5th May -
The Tonbridge Garden and Home Show
At The Sports Ground, Town Centre Leisure Park, Tonbridge, Kent from 9.30am - 5.30pm. Plant nurseries, garden and leisure products, crafts, foods, wines, cars, beer tent, competitions, displays, demonstrations, bungee jumps, train rides, ice creams, refreshments, childrens events and more. Entrance £4.00 adults, under 14’s free. 01732 357872.
Sat. 3rd May - May Fayre
At Sedlescombe Green with Maypole Dancing performed by the children from Sedlescombe Primary School, along with a craft fair around the Village Green in aid of Sedlescombe Pavilion Fund. 01424 870344.
Sun. 4th & 5th May - Celtic Weekend
At Michelham Priory, Upper Dicker, near Hailsham. 10.30am - 5pm. Adults £6.35, child £3.25, students/oap £5.20, family 2+2 £15.95.
Iron Age living history at Michelham Priory
Celebrate the rich heritage of Celtic people living in Sussex 2000 years ago in the grounds of Michelham Priory. The educational re-enactment group ‘Hands on History’ will demonstrate replica Celtic warrior, Romano-British auxiliary and full-blown Roman legionary armour and weaponry. They will also have a working ballista, army tent and equipment plus a series of talks about the equipment, times and people. The seven acres of moated gardens and reconstructed Iron Age Village host Celtic activities including pot making, weaving, flint knapping, wood working, cooking, woad and wounds body painting, children’s arts and crafts and many others. *Historic house and gardens * Free parking * Licensed restaurant
See website www.sussexpast.co.uk to learn more.
Thurs. 1st - 13th May - Bluebell Walks
At Hole Park Gardens, Benenden Road, Rolvenden, near Cranbrook. 11am - 6pm. Adults £5.00, child 50p. 01580 241344.
Thurs. 1st - 22nd May -
Art in Britain 1945 - 1970
Thursday evening course at the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill on Sea at 6pm (1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd). Booking and information. 01424 229111.
Until Mid May - Tulips and Bluebells
At Pashley Manor near Ticehurst. Tulip festival continues every day until Monday 5th May inclusive. £7.50 entrance. Bluebell walk starts end of April until mid May.
Thurs. 1st & 6th - 8th May - Bluebell Specials
At the Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station. Special services at noon and 2pm. Advance booking essential on 01825 720800.
Fri. 2nd - 4th May -
Who Do You Think You Are? Live ‘08’
At the Olympia Grand Hall, London. Fri. and Sat. 10am - 6pm. Sun. 10am - 5pm. Discover your family history just like the celebrities on the T.V. programme. www.whodoyouthinkyouarelive.co.uk
Fri. 2nd May - Live Music Concert
With Chris Garrick and John Etheridge at Frittenden Memorial Hall, Cranbrook, Kent at 8pm. 01580 852219.
Fri. 2nd May - Brede Farmers Market
At Brede Village Hall on the A28. From 10am - 12 noon. 01424 882836.
Fri. 2nd - 18th May - Lindel Williams Art
At Bewl Water, near Lamberhurst exhibiting her stunning work in the Visitors Centre. Entrance to Bewl (£6.00 per vehicle includes free admission).
Fri. 2nd May - The Tragic Tale of Dr. Faustus
At the Underground Theatre, Grove Road, Eastbourne. Tickets £8.00. “Deliciously Dangerous Theatre” - Time Out.
Fri. 2nd May - Royal Marines Band Concert
At the Winter Garden Theatre, Eastbourne at 7.30pm. Tickets £15.50. Tel: 01323 412000.
Fri. 2nd May - 1st June -
The Lady Boys of Bangkok
At the Sabai Pavilion, Victoria Park, Grand Parade, Brighton. Monday - Saturday 7pm and 9.15pm. Sunday 5pm and 7.30pm. Tickets £19.00 to £22.00. Tel: 0871 882 9558. Also appearing at The Whiite Rock Theatre, Hastings Monday 2nd June at 7.30pm. 0870 145 1133.
Sat. 3rd - 5th May - Jack in the Green Festival
At various locations in the town of Hastings with a procession on Bank Holiday Monday from 10am - 6pm. 0845 274 1001.
Sat. 3rd May - Barn Dance
At the Kent County Showground, Detling, near Maidstone. 8pm onwards. Advance tickets only (£7.50) on 01395 277002.
Sat. 3rd May - Robertsbridge Farmers Market
At the Village Hall, Station Road, Robertsbridge from 10am - 12.30pm. 01580 882204/881839.
Sat. 3rd May - The Bootleg Shadows
At the Sinden Theatre, Homewood School, Ashford Road, Tenterden. 01580 763826. The U.K’s greatest Shadows Tribute Band returns.
Sat. 3rd May - Crowhurst Village Market
At Crowhurst Village Hall from 10am - 12 noon. 01424 830461.
Sat. 3rd - 11th May - Grand Designs Live
At Excel, 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London. 10am - 6pm. Presented by design guru Kevin McLeod, this will inspired you with the latest design ideas for your home. www.granddesignslive.com
Sat. 3rd May - Caravan and Motor Home Show
At the Kent County Showground, Detling near Maidstone from 10am - 5pm. Adults £5.00. Seniors £4.00, child free. 01395 277002.
Sat. 3rd - 5th May -
Bank Holiday Entertainment
At the Hop Farm Country Park, Beltring, near Paddock Wood. Open 10am - 6pm. Field sports, showjumpting, falconry, archery, dog agility, craft shopping and many other attractions. Gate price adults £12.00, Senior and Child £11.00. 01622 872068.
Sat. 3rd May - Chiddingly Market
At Chiddingly Village Hall from 10am - 12 noon. Cakes, local meat and fish, craft stalls, jewellery, woodturning etc. 01435 863795.
Sat. 3rd - 5th May -
The Tonbridge Garden and Home Show
At the Sports Ground, Town Centre Leisure Park, Tonbridge, 9.30am - 5.30pm. Crafts, foods, wines, cars, beer tent, displays, demonstrations, bungee jumps, train rides, entertainment, refreshments, scarecrow trail and much more. Entrance £4.00, adults. Under 14’s free. 01732 357872.
Sat. 3rd & 5th May - Steam Gala Weekend
At the Kent and East Sussex Steam Railway, Tenterden Station. Lots of locos from the K and ESR’s own stable together with visiting engines. 01580 765165.
Sat. 3rd May - Uckfield Farmers Market
At Luxford Car Park, from 9am - 1pm. 01825 760646.
Sat. 3rd - 5th May - Lazy Town Live
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells from 11am, 2pm and 5pm.Packed with action and energy with a powerful message that will energise and inspire children everywhere. Tickets from £12.00. 01892 530613.
Sat. 3rd & 4th May - Magnificent Motors
At Eastbourne seafront. One of the biggest free motoring spectaculars on the South Coast, includes French Market and seafront Cavalcade from 10am. See www.magnificentmotors.co.uk
Sat. 3rd May - One Night of Elvis
At the White Rock Theatre, Hastings at 7.30pm. GMTV’s best Elvis winner, Heath Ashton and his band recreate the magic of a live Elvis concert. 01424 462280.
Sat. 3rd May - Carmina
At the Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells. Celtic jazz-folk pioneers Carmina cross musical boundaries effortlessly, blending styles organically into a subtle and original sound. Tickets £15.00. 01892 678678.
Sat. 3rd - 5th May - Flower & Costume Festival
At Smallhythe Place, Rye Road, Tenterden. Themed flower displays around costumes and theatre. Raising money for the Barn Theatre rethatching.
Sat. 3rd May -
The Johnny Spice Swing Orchestra
At the Winter Garden, Eastbourne at 7.30pm. Tickets £15.00 (dancing only). £20.00 includes meal. Formal dress. The big band returns with it’s popular evening of dancing and entertainment. 01323 412000.
Sat. 3rd - 5th May - May Revels
At Hever Castle and Gardens, near Edenbridge, Kent. Meet Henry VIII, and Anne Berlyn and join members of the Royal Tudor Court with music, dance and storytelling, you can even try your hand at archery.
Sat. 3rd May - See the Steam Giants
At Brede Waterworks, top of Brede Hill, A28. 10am - 4pm. The huge steam pumping engines have been restored and are in motion again. Admission free.
Sat. 3rd May - Spring Fair
At the Arthur Easton Centre, 25 Upper Maze Hill, St. Leonards on Sea from 10.30am - 12.30pm. Stalls and attractions, pipe and drum academy, grand draw, admission 40p. Proceeds to St. Michael’s Hospice.
Sat. 3rd May - Julie Felix
At the Stables Theatre, The Bourne, Hastings at 7.30pm. All tickets £12.00. Folk, rock legend Julie Felix celebrating the issue of her new CD, Highway of Diamonds. 01424 423221.
Sat. 3rd May - Ratton School Concert
At the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne at 7.30pm. Tickets £8.00. Performed by the students of Ratton School. 01323 412000.
Sat. 3rd - 5th May - Tales of Robin Hood
At Groombridge Place, Gardens, Groombridge Hill, near Tunbridge Wells from 10am - 5.30pm. Two shows with sword fighting, flaming arrows, horses, jesters and jugglers. Elizabethan stories and dancing in the formal gardens. Tel: 01892 861444.
Sat. 3rd May - Fish & Chip Supper
On The Spa Valley Railway, Old West Station, Nevill Terrace, Tunbridge Wells departing at 6.40pm. £11.00 return trip with a meal of your choice. Tel: 01892 537715.
Sat. 3rd May - Mayfield Book Fair
At the Memorial Hall, Mayfield from 9am - 3pm. Free admission. Seventeen book dealers with thousands of books. Refreshments available all day. 01435 864634.
Sat. 3rd May - Celebration Weekend & BBQ
At Johns Cross Motorcaravan and Camping Centre, Battle Road, A21 Robertsbridge. Lots of special promotions and offers. See page 44.
Sat. 3rd - 5th May - Weald of Kent Craft Show
At Penshurst Place, Penshurst, near Tonbridge, Kent. Craft and fashion for the home and garden. See www.ichf.co.uk Tel: 01425 277988.
Sun. 4th May - Memories
At the Winter Garden, Eastbourne. Willingdon School of Dance present this celebration of dance in aid of the Alzhimer’s Society. Dedicated to Barry Waters. 2.30pm & 7.00pm (doors at 2.00pm and 6.30pm). Tickets £6.50 . Tel: 01323 412000.
Sun. 4th May - Eliza Carthy and Friends
At the Hailsham Pavilion, George Street, Hailsham. Tickets £18.50. Winner of two Mercury Prize nominations and seven BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Tel: 01323 842414.
Sun. 4th May - Brainaic Live
At the White Rock Theatre, Hastings at 7.30pm. A breathless ride through the wild world of the weird and wonderful. 01424 462280.
Sun. 4th May - Katie Melua
At the Royal Albert Hall, London at 7.45pm. 0207 589 8212.
Sun. 4th May - An Evening with Roy Bailey
At the Stables Theatre, The Bourne, Hastings at 7.30pm. All seats £8.00. One of the folk world’s finest voices. Tel: 01424 423221.
Sun. 4th May - Sandling Park Garden Open
Sandling Park Garden, near Hythe, Kent open every Sunday and Wednesday in May 10am - 5pm. Adults £4.00, children and car park free. Sorry no dogs. Not suitable for wheelchairs. Situated North West of Hythe. Entrance off A20 only. From M20 - J11 - turn East onto A20, entrance is 0.5 mile.
Sun. 4th & 5th May - South of England Spring Garden and Leisure Show
At the South of England Centre, Ardingly, West Sussex. 01444 892 700.
Sun. 4th May - May Day Celebration
At Stonecross Windmill, 2pm - 5pm. Free entry. Opening every Sunday during May. Refreshments, souvenirs and flour available. 01323 760547.
Sun. 4th May - Carl Cox and Friends
At the Brighton Centre at 9pm. The King of Clubs. 0870 900 9100.
Mon. 5th May -
May Fair at the Globe & Rainbow
At the Globe & Rainbow, Kilndown, near Cranbrook, Kent. Free park and ride from Finchcocks. See advertisement and feature on page 31.
Mon. 5th - 10th May - Hello Dolly
At the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne. Eves: 7.30pm. Sat. Mats: 2.30pm. Tickets from £17.50 to £30.00, starring Anita Dobson, Darren Day and David McAlister with a company of over 40 together with a live orchestra. 01323 412000. A perfect match for every musical fan.
Tues. 6th - 10th May - Plaza Suite
At the Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 8pm. Sat. Mat: 3pm. Neil Simon’s hit Comedy about the misadventures of three couples in the Plaza Hotel in New York. Tickets £7.50 to £11.50. 01892 678678.
Tues. 6th May - Dawn Chorus
At Sissinghurst Castle Garden, near Cranbrook at 7am with Fred O’Hare and Warden Peter Dear. Includes hot breakfast, roll and tea/coffee. Booking essential on 01580 710700. Tickets £12.50.
Tues. 6th May - Latin Style Jive
At Battle Memorial Hall, 81 High Street, Battle every Tuesday from 7.45pm. Classes for all levels. See main ad. on page 42.
Tues. 6th May - Tea Dance
At the Sussex Hall, White Rock Theatre, from 2pm - 4.30pm. £3 on the door includes tea and biscuits. 01424 442601.
Tues. 6th May - Salsa Dancing
At the Cumberland Hotel, Eastbourne seafront from 7.30pm. Dancing until 11pm. See main advertisement on page 42.
Tues. 6th May - Sheffield Park Garden Open
In support of the National Garden Scheme. Open 10.30am - 5.30pm.
Tues. 6th May - Music & Arts Performance
At the Hydro Hotel, Eastbourne at 7.30pm. Winners from this year’s festival. Organised by the Friends of the Towner. Adults £7.00, child £3.50.
Tues. 6th May - Shaun Dennis
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. Tickets £15.00. top psychic medium communicates with the spirit world. 01892 530613.
Tues. 6th & 8th May - Celine Dion
At the 02 Arena, Docklands, London. 6.30pm. A visual spectacular where Celine performs her biggest hits along with songs from her new album ‘Taking Chances’. Tel: 0871 984 0002. www.the02.co.uk
Tues. 6th - 10th May - Patience
At the Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne. Eves: 7.45pm. Wed. and Sat. Mats: 2.30pm. Gilbert and Sullivan’s forgotten masterpiece. Featuring some of Sullivan’s most engaging songs. Tickets £10.00 to £12.00. 01323 412000.
Tues. 6th May - Tea Dance
At the Winter Garden, Eastbourne from 2pm - 5pm. £5.00. 01323 412000.
Wed. 7th May - East Dean Village Market
At East Dean Village Hall. 10.30am - 12.30pm. Every Wednesday.
Wed. 7th May - Rye Farmers Market
Every Wednesday on the Strand Quay, Rye 10am - 1pm. 01797 280282.
Wed. 7th May - Lord Sackville’s Garden Open
At Knole House, Sevenoaks, Kent. In Aid of National Garden Scheme. 11am - 4pm. Lord Sackville’s private garden.
Thurs. 8th May - Rolvenden Farmers Market
Every Thursday morning from 9.30am - 12 noon in the Village Hall, St. Mary’s Church opposite Rolvenden. 01580 241813. 20 - 30 stalls.
Thurs. 8th May - Flower Demonstration
At Heathfield Community Centre, Sheepsetting Lane, Heathfield at 7.30pm. A flower arranging demonstration by Stephanie Laing. Visitors welcome. £3.50. Tel: 01435 866026 (Horam and Heathfield Flower Club).
Thurs. 8th May - Hastings Farmers Market
From 9am - 2pm at Robertson Street, (next to Debenhams) on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. Tel: 01424 201137.
Thurs. 8th May -
Logan Wilson Singer Songwriter
At the Queens Hall Theatre, Cranbrook School at 7.45pm. Songs from his latest album ‘Geography’. Tickets £7.50. Tel: 01580 711814.
Thurs. 8th May - Tea Dance
At the Arthur Easton Centre, 25 Upper Maze Hill, St. Leonards on Sea from 2.30pm - 5pm. £2.50 incl. refreshments. Proceeds to St. Michael’s Hospice.
Thurs. 8th May - Classical Brit Awards
At the Royal Albert Hall, London at 8pm. 0207 589 8212.
Thurs. 8th May - Hawkhurst Country Market
At Dunks Hall, every Thursday selling home produced locally grown food and craft items includes cakes, pastries, jams, marmalade, chutney etc.
Fri. 9th May - Comedy Club
At the Winter Garden, Eastbourne at 9pm. (Doors 8pm) with Gary Delany. Compered by Dan Evans. Tickets £9.00. 01323 412000.
Fri. 9th - 11th May -
International Street Market
Around the Wellington Square area, Hastings from 9am - 5pm. Tel: 01424 205516. An international food market featuring different European foods.
Fri. 9th May - An Evening with Sean Lock
At the White Rock Theatre, Hastings at 8pm. Comedy favourite. 01424 462280.
Fri. 9th May - Gotta Sing Gotta Dance
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. Tickets from £16.00. Celebrating the best in show stopping tunes in this song and dance spectacular. An exhiliarating ride through the world of musical theatre. Tel: 01892 530613.
Sat. 10th May - Mayfield’s Mayfair
At Mayfield Village, Mayfield. A family fun day with lots of entertainment and attractions includes competition by Pin-Ups Hair (Page 59) for girls aged 5 to 14. £1.00 entry. 5 prizes to be awarded.
Sat. 10th & 11th May - War Weekend
At the Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, near Uckfield. Turn back the clock with the Home Guard, Spitfire Flypast, Soldiers, Military and Period Vehicles, displays and concert parties. 01825 720800.
Sat. 10th May -
Aviation Museum Coffee Morning
At Robertsbridge Aviation Museum, Bush Barn, Silverhill on the A21 north of Robertsbridge. Car park free. Sign posted on day. 01424 773428.
Sat. 10th May - Hailsham Farmers Market
At the Cattle Market site, Market Street, Hailsham from 9am - 12.30pm.
Sat. 10th & 11th May - Market on the Pantiles
A French market on the Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells from 9am.
Sat. 10th & 11th May - Country Fair
At Brenzett Aeronautical Museum from 11am - 5.30pm. Adults £5.00, child or senior £3.00. Lots of attractions for all the family. 01797 344747.
Sat. 10th May - Animals & Friends
At the Hailsham Pavilion, George Street, Hailsham. Expect all the hits including the ‘House of the Rising Sun’. Seats £17.50. Tel: 01323 841414.
Sat. 10th May - The Fall
At the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill on Sea. John Peel’s favourite band formed in early 1977 and has since released twenty five studio albums and around fifty compilation and live albums. Tickets £16.00. Tel: 01424 229111.
Sat. 10th May -
Tunbridge Wells Farmers Market
On Civic Way, (Outside the Town Hall) from 9am - 2pm.
Sat. 10th May - Plumpton College Open Day
At Plumpton College, Ditchling Road, Plumpton. £5.00 adult, £3.00 senior, free entry for under 16’s. Riding, craft show, farm displays, wine tasting, terrier racing, food hall, climbing wall, sheep shearing, falconry etc.
Sat. 10th May - El-Andalus
At Battle Memorial Hall. North African and Andalusian music at 7.15pm Tickets £6.00 adult, £4.00 child. Tel: 01424 772044.
Sat. 10th & 11th May - Mills Weekend
At Stonecross Windmill, Stonecross, near Eastbourne. 10am - 4pm. Featuring Morris Men on both days. With an opportunity to buy refreshments, souvenirs and flour from the mill. Guided tours available.
Sat. 10th & 11th May - Brightling Polo
At The Polo Fields, Riverdell Farm, Rother Bridge, Burwash, TN19 7DX. The welcome tournament - 8 to - 4. See page 45. 01435 810017.
Sat. 10th May -
Westfield Playschool Celebration
At Westfield Parish Church, Vicarage Lane, Westfield. Celebrating their 40th Anniversary and new garden launch from 2pm - 4pm. Kids activities, teas, coffees and cakes for sale and much more.
Sat. 10th & 11th May - Mystic Arts 2008
At Olympia Conference Centre, London.
Sat. 10th & 11th May - Give It A Name 2008
At Earls Court 1, London. The largest indoor rock event in the U.K. See www.giveitaname.co.uk for full line up details. From £33.50 to £60.00.
Sat. 10th May - Cream Tea-athon
At Catkins Tearoom, Coopers Croft, New Road, Herstmonceux. Catkins will be donating £1.00 to the RSPCA Bluebell Ridge for every cream tea sold today. Also stalls, including raffle, books, tombola, etc. 10.30am - 4.30pm. 075116 96420. See advertisement on page 34.
Sat. 10th May - Pevensey Bay Village Market
At St. Wilfrid’s Hall Eastbourne Road, Pevensey Bay. 8.45am - 11.45am. 01323 460178.
Sat. 10th & 11th May - Viva La Diva
At the 02 Arena, Docklands, London at 7.30pm. Darcey Bussell & Katherine Jenkins’ are VIVA LA DIVA. Darcey says, “Ballet has been my focus for 28 years. Now I am stepping into a variety of different styles of dance that I have always had a passion to perform. Katherine’s voice has an exceptional quality and I’m very much looking forward to combining our very different talents.” Telephone 0871 984 0002 www.the02.co.uk
Sat. 10th May - Paul Merton’s Impro Chums
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. Taking audience suggestions and creating comic material most of the time. Tickets from £16.00. Tel: 01892 530613.
Sat. 10th - 20th May - Prism Art Exhibition
At the Chequer Mead Community Art Centre, East Grinstead. 10am - 5pm. Sixty paintings and works in a variety of art media by twenty artists. Almost all works will be for sale. 01580 715137.
Sat. 10th May - Creating a Heart in Kabubbu
At the Kings Centre, Eastbourne at 7pm. Story of the amazing new generation of a Ugandan rural village begun in 2000. Pre event wine and cheese reception. 6pm. Tickets £5.00. Event and admission free. 01323 832361.
Sat. 10th May - Carducci String Quartet
At Vinehall School, Robertsbridge at 7.30pm. Prize winners in no less than six international chamber music competitions in the space of four years the Carducci Quartet has quickly become recognised as one of Europe’s top string quartets. Programme: Haydn, String Quartet Op. 76 No. 2 ‘Fifths’. Vaughan Williams; String Quartet No. 2 in A minor. Beethoven: String Quartet Op. 59 No. 3 ‘Rasumovsky’. Tel: 01580 880413.
Sat. 10th May - Art Club Exhibition & Sale
At Union Church Hall, High Street, Heathfield from 9.30am - 4.30pm. Free refreshments. 01435 866026.
Sun. 11th May - The Puppet Lab Presents
Beauty and the Beast at the Underground Theatre, Grove Road, Eastbourne at 2pm. Tickets £5.00 from the Central Library.
Sun. 11th May - Arriva Family Fun Day
At the Kent County Showground, Detling, near Maidstone from 10am - 4pm. Admission £1.00 includes programme. As well as the Arriva Area Finals for the UK Bus Driver of the Year, there will be entertainment, a prize draw and lots of other stalls and displays. http://www.arrivafunday.co.uk
Sun. 11th May - Almost Dawn Chorus Walk
At Sheffield Park Garden, Sheffield Park, near Uckfield. 7am - 9am. Find out which birds are out and about, learn to pick out their song with the help of an expert. Tickets £7.50. Tel: 01825 790231.
Sun. 11th May - Steeleye Span
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. Tickets £17.50. One of the most influential names in British roots music. Pioneers of folk rock who change the face of folk music forever. 01892 530613.
Sun. 11th May - Mica Paris
At the 02 Arena, Docklands, London at 7pm. Sensational U.K soul singer has a new monthly residency at the O2. With guest performances from some of the best names in soul, gospel, jazz and R&B. 0871 984 0002.
Sun. 11th May - Longing (Film)
At Uckfield Picture House at 8pm. 01825 764909.
Sun. 11th May - Mortimers Miscellany
At the Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 5pm. Sir John Mortimer is a masterful raconteur who, along with distinguished colleagues, presents a memorable show packed with stories and anecdotes from the legal world, poetry and music including the words of Byron, Auden, Hardy and even a few newspaper articles about bizarre real-life murders. £20.00. 01892 678678.
Sun. 11th May -
The London Philharmonic Orchestra
At the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne at 3pm. Free pre concert event from 2pm - 2.30pm. Tickets £11.00 to £27.50. 01323 412000.
Sun. 11th May - Madama Butterfly
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. Performed by the Ukranian National Opera of Odessa with hand picked soloists and full orchestra. Tickets £23.00 to £33.00. Sung in Italian with English subtitles. 01892 530613.
Mon. 12th May - Specialist Nursery Plant Fair
At the Freight, Cranbrook in aid of the Gardening for Disabled Trust from 11am - 3pm. Entrance £4.00. www.gardeningfordisabledtrust.org.uk
Mon. 12th - 17th May - The Wedding Singer
At the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne. Eves: 7.30pm. Sat. Mat: 2.30pm. The hilarious Broadway musical prior to the West End. Tickets £16.00 to £28.00. Tel: 01323 412000.
Tues. 13th & 14th May - Girls Aloud
At the Brighton Centre 7.00pm. Tickets £26.00 0870 900 9100.
Tues. 13th May - La Traviata
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. Presented by the Ukranian National Opera of Odessa. Sung in Italian with English subtitles. Tickets £22.50 to £32.50. 01892 530613.
Tues. 13th - 17th May -
Underfoot in Showbusiness
At the Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne. Eves: 7.45pm. Sat. Mats: 2.30pm. The play follows the hopes and dreams of those who want to get started in the glamorous world of showbusiness. Tickets £11.00 and £13.00. Tel: 01323 412000.
Tues. 13th - 17th May - The Bakers Wife
At the Stables Theatre, The Bourne, Hastings. Eves: 7.30pm. A wry musical comedy about jealousy, lust, revenge and pastries. £10.00. 01424 423221.
Wed. 14th May - Fly Away Katie
Childrens theatre at the Winter Garden, Eastbourne at 11am and 1.30pm. Presented by Long Nosed Puppets. For ages 2-4 years. £5.00. 01323 412000.
Wed. 14th May - Backstreet Boys
At the 02 Arena, Docklands, London. 6.30pm. 0871 9840002.
Thurs. 15th May - AJ McLean
At the 02 Arena, Docklands, London at 7pm. 0871 9840002.
Thurs. 15th May - Cath Kart Spring Proms
At the Royal Albert Hall, London at 8pm. 0207 589 8212.
Thurs. 15th May - Buying a Property Abroad?
At the Spa Hotel, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Discover exciting new world wide developments from just £59,0000. See feature on page 7 for details.
Thurs. 15th May - Here and Now 2008
At the Brighton Centre, at 6.30pm. Rick Astley, Bananarama, ABC, Paul Young, Curiosity Killed The Cat, Johnny Hates Jazz, Cutting Crew. £36.50. 0871 900 9100.
Fri. 16th - 18th May - Positively Poland
At Olympia 2, London. Fri. 10am - 7pm. Sat. 11am - 8pm. Sun. 10am - 4pm. Raising the profile of this dynamic and modern country with leisure, business and investment opportunities. www.positivelypoland.com
Fri. 16th May - Blue Cross Tea Party
At the Blue Cross Centre, Main Street, Northiam. See main advertisement on page 56. 01797 253908.
Fri. 16th - 25th May - Charleston Festival
At Charleston, Firle, Lewes. An array of internationally renowned writers, performers and artists in debates, interviews, discussions and readings. See advertisement and feature on page 46. www.charleston.org.uk
Fri. 16th May - Spring Painting Day
At Sheffield Park Gardens, near Uckfield from 10am - 4pm. Professional artist on hand to advise. £38.00. Booking essential on 01825 790231.
Fri. 16th May - Porvari
At the Underground Theatre, Grove Road, Eastabourne at 8pm. Folk, rock duo plus two support acts. Tickets £5.00 from the Central Library.
Fri. 16th & 17th May - Girls Aloud
At the 02 Arena, Docklands, London at 6pm. 0871 9840002.
Fri. 16th May - Cite of London Sinfonia
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. Tickets £10.00 to £18.00. Tel: 01892 530613.
Sat. 17th and 18th May - Reptile Experience
At the Hop Farm Country Park, Beltring, near Paddock Wood. Pythons, alligators, lizards, frogs, spiders etc. Gate price £12.00 adult, £11.00 child. Advance booking discounts. 01622 872068.
Sat. 17th May - Battle Choral Society
At St. Leonards Parish Church, Marina, St. Leonards on Sea at 7.30pm. See main advertisement and feature on page 22.
Sat. 17th May - Craft Fair
At Battle Memorial Hall, High Street, Battle from 9am - 2.30pm. Refreshements available. Contact 01424 772026.
Sat. 17th May - The Music of Pink Floyd
At Smarden Charter Hall, 7.30pm. Performed by Us…. Not Them. Tickets £12.50. 01233 770628. Seated concert.
Sat. 17th - 29th May - Sculpture Fortnight
At Pashley Manor Gardens, Ticehurst, near Wadhurst. Featuring the work of many eminent sculptors as well as works by local sculptors.
Sat. 17th May -
Retro Active Cocktails & Dance Night
At the Town Hall, Assembly Rooms, Eastbourne. 7.30pm - 11pm. Enjoy a sophisticated evening of music, dance and cocktails with RetrOactive, a 10 piece jazz band. Tickets £10.00. Tel: 01323 412000.
Sat. 17th & 18th May - Forties Weekend
At the Kent and East Sussex Steam Railway, Tenterden Station. Relive the 40’s lifestyle with food, music and travel by steam train. 01580 765165.
Sat. 17th May - NSPCC Plant Sale
At Saltwood Castle, near Hythe. 10am - 4pm. £4.00. Free parking.
Sat. 17th May - BLODS Concert
At the Arthur Easton Centre, 25 Upper Maze Hill, St. Leonards on Sea at 7pm. Music from the shows to include cheese and pate supper. Tickets £6.00. Advance booking only on 01424 713991.
Sat. 17th May - Fureys and Davey Arthur
At the White Rock Theatre, Hastings at 7.30pm. Legends of Irish music with music, songs and stories. Tel: 01424 462280.
Sat. 17th May - Bluetones
At the 02 Arena, Docklands, London at 7.30pm. 0871 984 0002.
Sat. 17th May -
Plant Fair
At the Hospice in Maidstone Road, Pembury from 10am - 2pm. Plants, herbs, trees, shrubs, craft stalls, barbecue, refreshments, cakes. Free admission. Further details on 01892 820508.
Sat. 17th & 18th May - Spring Gala
At the Spa Valley Railway, Old West Station, Nevill Terrace, Tunbridge Wells. Steam based gala with all available locomotives in steam and perhaps a visiting locomotive. 01892 537715.
Sat. 17th May - Battle Farmers Market
On the Abbey Green, Battle from 9am - 1pm. 01424 751575.
Sat. 17th & 18th May -
Elmer the Patchwork Elephant
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells from 12 noon to 2pm. Tickets £6.00. Live on stage. Enjoy silly songs, marvellous magic and multi coloured music. Tel: 01892 530613.
Sun. 18th May - Tractor Parade
Along Hastings Seafront to celebrate the 21st Anniversary of St. Michael’s Hospice and 15 years of Step Back In Time. 2pm - 3pm.
Sun. 18th May - Charity Ride & Walk
On the Normanhurst Estate, near Battle. 10 mile ride/walk off road around fields and woodlands. 9.30am - 12.30pm. 01424 838302.
Sun. 18th & 19th May - Roger Waters
At the 02 Arena, Docklands, London at 6.30pm. Pink Floyd Front Man bringing The Dark Side of The Moon to the 02. Tel: 0871 984 0002.
Sun. 18th May - Fun Day Dog Show
At Whitelands Kennels and Cattery, Westfield Lane (A28) Hastings. 11am - 5pm. Guest appearance - winner of Best in Show at Crufts 2008. CH: Jafrak Philippe Olivier. Also pony and cart rides (kids), tombola, barbecue, cakes, bric-a-brac, animal healers, rescue dogs, stalls available in advance on 01424 754287. See page 56 for Whitelands Kennels advertisement.
Sun. 18th May - Zucchero
At the Royal Albert Hall, London at 7.30pm. £22.50 - £37.50 His 1988 album ‘Blue’s’ became the highest selling album in Italian history and included the original version of ‘Senza una Donna’ (which later became his best known hit when released as a duet with Paul Young) Tel: 0207 589 8212.
Sun. 18th May -
Mercury.. Queen.. The Legend Lives On
At the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne at 7.30pm. Joseph Lee Jackson as Freddie Mercury recapture the sight, sounds and emotions of Queen. Tickets £14.50. Tel: 01323 412000.
Sun. 18th May - Adriano Adewale
At the Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells. Adriano’s music is a truly global fusion of musical influences, rooted in the musical traditions of Nigeria, Angola and Brazil. Tickets £14.00. 01892 678678.
Sun. 18th May - Dawn Chorus Walk
At Bateman’s Burwash, 5am - 7am. Find out which birds are out and about. Pick up their individual songs with an expert. Return at 7am for egg and bacon bap, orange juice and coffee. £10.00. 01435 882302. Booking essential.
Sun. 18th & 19th May - Olympia Beauty
Trade show at Olympia Grand Hall, London from 10am - 5pm. For all those in the beauty, health and spa sectors. With over 300 top U.K brands exhibiting. Workshops and seminar programme and two live stage shows. 01959 569867. www.olympiabeauty.co.uk
Sun. 18th May - The Mid Century Show
At the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill on Sea. 11am - 4pm. Furniture and collectables from the middle to the last century. 35 dealers specialising in all aspects of mid century design for the home. Tickets £5.00. Tel: 01424 229111 for details.
Sun. 18th May - Chamber Music Concert
At the Underground Theatre, Grove Road, Eastbourne at 3pm. The Townsend Quartet. Tickets £7.00 from the Central Library.
Sun. 18th May - Rags to Witches
At the Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells. Based on a true story, this is spellbinding family theatre that weaves together ancient New Forest folklore with animation, puppetry and live music. Ages 7-11 £6.95. 01892 678678.
Sun. 18th May - Walk Wonders
At Penshurst Place and Gardens, near Tonbridge, Kent. Macmillan Cancer Support Fundraising Walk. Call 0845 673 0715.
Sun. 18th May - Rye Classic Bike Jumble
At Hamstreet, Marsh Road, Ashford, Kent. Bikes, spares and lots more for the classic motorcycle enthusiast. Tickets from £3.00. 01797 344277.
Mon. 19th May - Photographic Workshop
At Sheffield Park Garden, near Uckfield from 10am - 4pm. £38. Booking Essential 01825 790231 with Stephen Robson, photographer from the National Trust Photo Library
Tues. 20th - 24th May - Killing Faith
At The Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne. Eves: 7.45pm Wed & Sat Mats: 2.30pm. This brave and humorous new play by Gail Louw unravels the slender threads that hold us together. £11.00, £13.00. Tel: 01323 412000.
Tues. 20th - 24th May - The Chelsea Flower Show
On the grounds of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, London SW3. The ultimate event in the garden year setting the latest trends and featuring the newest and most desirable gardening products creating an explosion of colours and scents. www.rhs.org.uk/chelsea/2008
Tues. 20th May - Richard Hawley
At Royal Albert Hall, London at 7.30pm. 0207 589 8212.
Tues. 20th- 22nd May - Evacuation Experience
At Kent and East Sussex Steam Railway, Tenterden Station. How it felt being a evacuee during World War 2. 01580 765165.
Tues. 20th - 22nd May - Those Variety Days
At The Royal Hippodrome Theatre, Eastbourne at 8pm. Direct from Blackpool, celebrating a golden age of entertainment with the The George Mitchell Singers, a special guest appearance by comedy legend Syd Little and stars from the BBC TV series including Bob Hunter, Les Want, Peter Chapman and Charles Case. Tickets £14.50. 01323 412000.
Wed. 21st May - Glitz, Blitz and 70’s Hits
At The Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. Tickets from £19.00. Glam rock at its best. Featuring Showaddywaddy, Sweet and the Rubettes. Tel: 01892 530613.
Wed. 21st May - Race for Life
At the Hop Farm Country Park, Beltring, near Paddock Wood, Kent. Event starts at 9am. The 5km course will take you around the Hop Farm grounds, and the surrounding areas. This year Cancer Research UK are hoping to see 1500 women run, jog or walk the course to help more people survive cancer. 01622 872068.
Wed. 21st & 22nd May - Caffe Culture
At Olympia National Hall, London. 9.30am - 6pm. (5.30pm on 22nd). Trade show for all those in the catering, food and beverage industry. Dedicated to the U.K Caffe and coffee bar market. www.caffeculture.com
Wed. 21st May - Chi Chi Bunichi
At The Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7pm and 8.45pm. A unique and remarkable evening fusing live music, dance and theatre, this intimate and moving event takes place in the beautiful surroundings of Trinity’s garden. Tickets £10.00. 01892 678678.
Wed. 21st May - Shayne Ward
At The 02 Arena, Docklands, London at 6.30pm. With songs from his latest album ‘Breathless’. 0871 984 0002.
Wed. 21st May - Feist
At The Royal Albert Hall, London at 7pm. Leslie Feist (aka Feist) is a Juno Award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter. Tickets £17.50 to £27.50. Tel: 0207 5898212.
Wed. 21st - 24th May -
Tunbridge Wells Cricket Week
At Nevill Ground, Warwick Park, Tunbridge Wells. Wed. - Sat. from 11am. Mon. 26th at 10.45am. 01227 456886.
Wed. 21st & 22nd May -
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
At The White Rock Theatre, Hastings at 7.30pm. Sat. Mat: 2.30pm. Featuring all the classic songs in this glorious romp. Full of hand clapping energy and dazzling dance routines. 01424 462280.
Wed. 21st May - Literary Lunch
At Hotel du Vin, Tunbridge Wells at 12.30pm. With James Naughtie, £39.00 includes champagne reception, two course lunch, wine, water and coffee. 01892 554103. Radio 4 Broadcaster, James Naughtie talks about his latest best selling book ‘The Making of Music’.
Thurs. 22nd May - Comedy Cafe
At The Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 8pm. Three top stand up comedians. 01892 678678.
Thurs. 22nd May - Tea Dance
At Arthur Easton Centre, 25 Upper Maze Hill, St. Leonards on Sea from 2.30pm - 5pm. £2.50 includes refreshments. Proceeds to Hospice.
Thurs. 22nd May - Mums The Word
At The Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. Five women, five stories, one common thread … a hilarious and intimate look at motherhood. Tickets £18.50. 01892 530613.
Thurs. 22nd May - Bexhill Farmers Market
At Parkhurst Methodist Hall, Parkhurst Road, 9am -12 noon. 01424 222969.
Thurs. 22nd May - Dara O’Briain
At The Congress Theatre, Eastbourne at 8pm. £17.00 to £19.00. Intelligent, no frills, stand up comedy. 01323 412000.
Fri. 23rd May - Fashion Show
At Esporta, Knights Park, Tunbridge Wells. Tickets £10.00 includes canapes and glass of wine on arrival. Luxury raffle. Proceeds of raffle to Kent Handicapped Caring Association.
Fri. 23rd May - Classical Chamber Ensemble
At Solomons, Victorian Theatre, Southborough at 7.30pm. Tickets £12.00. Child £1.00. Part of the Tunbridge Wells Int. Music Festival. 01892 530613.
Fri. 23rd May - Music for an Ancient Town
At Winchelsea Church. Medieval music by Pastorella. One of the U.K’s leading period groups. Tickets £10.00. Tel: 01797 225333.
Fri. 23rd - 25th May - Kindly Leave the Stage
At The De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill on Sea at 7.30pm. Sat. and Sun Mats: 2.30pm. Comedy by the BATS. 01424 229111.
Fri. 23rd May - That’ll Be The Day
At The Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. Brand new 2008 show with gold hits from the 50’s to the 80’s. £21.00 or £19.00. Fabulous non stop nostalgia. 01892 530613.
Fri. 23rd May - Jazz at the Underground
At The Underground Theatre, Grove Road, Eastbourne with the Georgia Mancio Band. Brazillian classics with Cuban and Italian songs. Tickets £9.00 from the Central Library. Performance 8pm.
Fri. 23rd May - Chris Rock
At The 02 Arena, Docklands. London at 6.30pm. 0871 984 0002.
Sat. 24th May - Ghent Azaleas Walk
At Sheffield Park Garden, near Uckfield. Come and see the National collection of Ghent Azaleas at there best. From 10am.
Sat. 24th May - 1st June -
Smugglers Treasure Trail
At Bateman’s, Burwash from 11am - 5pm. Find the hidden loot in the garden and receive a prize. Tickets £2.00 plus normal admission.
Sat. 24th May - Mark Knopfler
At The Brighton Centre at 7.30pm. 0871 900 9100.
Sat. 24th May - T. Wells Farmers Market
At The Civic Road, Tunbridge Wells from 9am - 2pm. 01892 554244.
Sat. 24th - 26th May - All American Festival
At The Hop Farm Country Park, Beltring, near Paddock Wood. 10am - 5pm daily. Try your hand at cheerleading or basketball, baseball or even a rodeo bull. Tickets £11.00 advance, £12.00 gate for adults. £10.00 (£11.00 Senior/Child). Tel: 01622 872068.
Sat. 24th May - Gael Pipefest
At Bexhill on Sea, various locations. 9am- 6pm. Piping bands performing throughout the day. Tel: 01424 211331.
Sat. 24th & 26th May - Open Gardens
At Netherfield Hill, Battle from 10.30am - 4.30pm. £1.00 per garden or £5.00 for seven gardens. Children half price, under 7’s free. Coffee, lunches, teas available at Netherfield Church. Wine and cheese party at church on Saturday 24th at 7.30pm. £5.00 at the door.
Sat. 24th - 26th May - History in Brass
At Bodiam Castle, near Robertsbridge. Create brass rubbings from a selection of historical designs. Materials provided. Normal admission applies plus £1.50 to £3.50 depending of size of brass. 01580 830196.
Sat. 24th May - Buteyko Breathing Seminar
At The Equilibrium Centre, Lewes. 1pm - 2.30pm. Call 01580 752852 for further information or to book a place. See page 60 for Buteyko details.
Sat. 24th & 25th May - Passion
At Earls Court 1, London, 1pm - 9pm on 24th. 12 noon to 7pm on 25th. Adult lifestyle show. See www.passion-uk.com
Sat. 24th May - Hed Kandi
At the 02 Arena, Docklands, London at 8pm. Presented by the Ministry of Sound. With full stage production sets. Tel: 0871 984 0002.
Sat. 24th May - Popular Opera
At Chiddingstone Castle, Chiddingstone at 8pm. An assortment of the world’s most popular classical arias in one superb evening. Tickets £15.00. Tel: 0208 354 3112. Performed by renowned artists.
Sat. 24th May - 1st June -
Masks & Masquerades
At Penshurst Place and Gardens, Tonbridge, Kent. Find out more about the exotic tudor masked balls and make glittering masks to wear to the ball over the Bank Holiday weekend. 01892 870307.
Sat. 24th - 26th May - Fun at Groombridge
At Groombridge Place, Groombridge, Tunbridge Wells from 10am - 5.30pm. A magical inflatable circus village with childrens rides, workshops and entertainment throughout the day. 01892 861444.
Sat. 24th May -
Sir Richard Rodney Bennett & Claire Martin
At The Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. The three-times Oscar nominated film composer and pianist is joined by Claire Martin, winner of the 2003 BBC Jazz Awards, who has a regular spot at Ronnie Scott’s and the Oak Room. Tickets £20.00. 01892 678678.
Sat. 24th - 26th May -
Past Times & Good Company
At Hever Castle and Gardens, near Edenbridge, Kent. The Kings Household entertains his Majesty with horsemanship, archery, falconry and music.
Sat. 24th May - CBeebies
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 11am, 2pm and 4.30pm. Tickets from £13.50. Tel: 01892 530613.
Sat. 24th - 26th May - Festival of Flowers
At Christchurch Methodist Church, Springfield Road, Bexhill. 10am - 4.30pm. Sat. and Mon. 2pm - 4.30pm Sun. Lunches Sat. and Mon. 12pm - 2pm. Stunning displays, refreshments, cream teas, stalls etc.
Sat. 24th May - Crowborough Farmers Market
At Wealden District Car Park from 9am - 1pm. 01892 664064.
Sun. 25th & 26th May - Battle Medieval Fair
At Battle Abbey Green, Battle from 11am - 5pm. Craft stalls, jugglers, jesters, fire eaters, maypole dancing, and the crowning of the May Queen. 01424 773721. See main feature on pages 22 and 23.
Sun. 25th & 26th May -
Spring Garden Fair and Music Festival
At Finchcocks, Riseden, Goudhurst. 10.30am - 5.30pm. Crafts, gifts, plants and music with demonstrations and recitals. Indian village in the walled garden with marquees and lots of other attractions. 01580 211702.
Sun. 25th May - Masquerade Ball
At Penshurst Place, near Tonbridge, Kent. 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Bring your mask and take part in the ball with the Boleyn Girls. 01892 870307.
Sun. 25th May - Albert Lee & Hogan’s Heroes
At the Hailsham Pavilion, George Street, Hailsham. Tickets £18.50. A grammy award winner and a musicians musician. 01323 841414.
Sun. 25th May - Aviation Museum Open
At Bush Barn, Silverhill on the A21 north of Robertsbridge. 2.30pm - 5.30pm. Admission and car park free. Donations welcome. 01424 773428.
Sun. 25th May - Paul Lewis (Pianist)
At the Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. 01892 678678.
Sun. 25th May - Stately Home Boot Fair
At Hole Park, Rolvenden, Kent. Antiques, clothes, bric-a-brac, all of high quality. With thousands of items for sale.
Mon. 26th May - Bexhill Horse Show
On the Polegrove Recreation Ground, Brockley Road, Bexhill. 9.30am - 5.30pm. A huge number of classes and events. 01424 845033.
Mon. 26th May - Steam Railway Open Day
At the Kent and East Sussex Steam Railway, Tenterden Station.
Tues. 27th - 29th May - Circus Workshops
At the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill on Sea. Come for one or all three days. Suitable for both beginners or intermediate. 10.30am - 3.30pm. £25.00.
Tues. 27th May - Ravensborne Morris Men
Performing at the Duke Of York on the Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells at 8pm.
Tues. 27th May - Jimmy Carr
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. £19.50. Extra date due to popular demand. 01892 530613.
Tues. 27th May - 1st June -
Jousting Tournament
At Leeds Castle and Gardens, thrilling twice daily jousts. 01622 765400.
Tues. 27th May - Teddy Bears Picnic
At Scotney Castle, near Lamberhurst. 11.30am - 2pm. Bring a picnic.
Tues. 27th - 30th May - Try on Armour
At Bodiam Castle, near Robertsbridge. Calling all young Knights and Princesses. Try on replica armour and medieval clothes. 12pm - 4pm. Normal admission plus £1.00. Tel: 01580 830196.
Tues. 27th May - Eastbourne’s Tea Dance
At the Winter Garden, 2pm - 5pm. £5.00. 01323 412000.
Wed. 28th - 31st May - Oliver
At the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne at 7.30pm. Thurs. and Sat. Mats: 2.30pm. Performed by Eastbourne’s Operatic and Dramatic Society. Tickets £10.00 to £12.00. Tel: 01323 412000.
Wed. 28th May - 7th June - Deadly Game
At the Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne. Eves: 7.45pm. Wed. and Sat. Mats: 2.30pm. Karen Drury and Steven Pinder star in this enthralling thriller which is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat right up until the thrilling climax. Tickets £13.50 - £18.00. 01323 412000.
Wed. 28th May - Green Man
At Bedgebury, Pinetum from 10am - 12 noon (4 - 6 years). 1pm - 3pm. (7 - 12 years). An arty encounter with the elusive figure of woodland mythology. £5.00 per young person. 01580 879820.
Wed. 28th May - Family Fun Day
At Bateman’s, Burwash from 11am - 5pm. Activities for children all day.
Wed. 28th May - Digital Camera Introduction
At Sissinghurst Castle Garden, near Cranbrook from 10am - 3pm. For complete beginners. Only 12 places so book early. £33.50. Tel: 01580 710700.
Wed. 28th May - Brainiac Live
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. Tickets £18.50 adult, £16.50 child. The Sky 1 Science show takes to the road. Telephone 01892 530613.
Wed. 28th & 29th May - Living History
Living History Weekend in Winchelsea with displays of combat between Knights together with medieval artillery re-enactments, archers and wandering troupbadours. Try a longbow, food and drink on sale. £7.00 adult, £3.00 under 16’s. Parking free. 11am - 5pm.
Wed. 28th May - Thank You for the Music
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. £19.50. Abba meets the Bee Gees in this Box Office blockbuster. 01892 530613.
Thurs. 29th - 31st May - Honk Jnr.
At the Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 3pm. Childrens theatre. A contemporary re-telling of Hans Christian Anderson’s classic, The Ugly Duckling. 01892 678678.
Fri. 30th May - An evening with Tony Benn
At the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill on Sea at 7.30pm. Tickets £16.00. An evening of discussion, debate and questions. Tel: 01424 229111.
Fri. 30th May - The Counterfeit Stones
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells at 7.30pm. Tickets from £17.00. Phony Rock ‘n’ Roll tour. Tel: 01892 530613.
Fri. 30th May - Boyzone
At the 02 Arena, Docklands, London. 6.30pm. Tel: 0871 984 0002.
Fri. 30th May - Comedy Central
At the Winter Garden, Eastbourne. Doors 8pm. Tickling those comedy taste buds for this May date will be Debra Jane Apply plus Rob and Skatz and Otiz Cannelloni. Standard tickets £9.00 Students £7.00 01323 412000
Fri. 30th May - Live Salsa Band
At the Babylon Lounge, Kingsway, Hove. Live 10 piece salsa band. Mezcla De Londres. See main advertisement on page 43.
Sat. 31st May - 1st June - Flower Festival
At All Saints Church, Biddenden. 10am - 6pm.
Sat. 31st May - Presidents Band
The Royal Airforce’s association President’s Band in Concert. At St. Augustins Church, Cooden Drive, Bexhill on Sea at 7.30pm. £10.00. Celebrating the 90th annniversary of the Royal Airforce. Tickets from RAFA Albatross Club, Marina Arcade, Bexhill and Second Spin 14 Sackville Road, Bexhill.
Sat. 31st May - Absolute Bowie
At the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells. Tribute band performing the best of David Bowie’s hits. Tickets £14.50. 01892 530613.
Sat. 31st May -
Haxan Witchcraft through the ages
At the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill on Sea from 8pm. Tickets £8.00. With a ground breaking new score by Geoff Smith. The film is a documentary of witchcraft and a study of how human superstition may have led to the hysteria of the early modern period. Tel: 01424 229111.
Sat. 31st May - 1st June - Steam Engine Rally
At Tinkers Park, Hadlow Down, between Uckfield and Mayfield (A272). Adults £6.00. Children £2.00. Open 10am - 5pm. See feature on page 46.
Sat. 31st May - Portrait Workshop
At the Mountfield Community Arts from 10am - 3pm. £45.00. Exotic black model. Theme - Queen of Sheba. Tutor: Juliette Dodd. 01424 424010.
Sat. 31st May -
Haydn, Brahms & Dvorak Concert
Phoenix Choir & Orchestra present Haydn: 40th Symphony, Brahms: Nanie and Dvorak: Mass in D. In St. Saviour’s and St. Peter’s Church, South Street, Eastbourne at 7.30pm. Advance tickets: £9 or on the door £10. Box Office: 01323 431139. Coming on June 21st - Workshop on Mendelssohn’s: Elijah - visit www.phoenixchoir-eastbourne.com to book. For more info see June’s “What’s On”.
Sat. 31st May - 1st June - The Green Show
At Olympia 2, London. The show also features an impressive exhibition area, where you can find learn about sustainable living - and really go green! ETHICAL FASHION SHOW, CALCULATE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT, SUSTAINABLE FOOD PRODUCTION AND HEALTHY COOKING, THE GREEN SHOW MAKEOVER ZONE, ECO HOME ZONE. See www.the-green-show.com
Sat. 31st May - 1st June - Career Forum 2008
At the Olympia Conference Centre, London. Jobs and career advice for students or those seeking to change career.
Sat. 31st May - 1st June -
Craft Fair & Garden Show
At Bewl Water, near Lamberhurst, Kent. Open from 10am - 5pm on both days. Normal admission (£6.00 per vehicle with entrance to the craft marquee and garden show free). Over 30 stalls with many regular exhibitors.
Sat. 31st May - Medieval Mayhem
At Ightham Mote, Ivyhatch Lane, near Sevenoaks. Hands on history brings to life the medieval periods of soldiers, armour and weapons. Join in popular games of the era plus other activities. 11am - 4pm.
Sun. 1st June - Southern Youth Ballet
Presents La Fille Mal Gardee at the Congress Theatre. With the Southern Youth Ballet Orchestra conducted by Kenneth Roberts. The East Sussex based Southern Youth Ballet Company of 65 young dancers present a traditional version of this delightful ballet. “Enchanting cameo productions of Classical Ballets with a very high standard of dance” Eastbourne Herald. Southern Youth Ballet is sponsored by Nemesis Security Limited. Tickets £7, £8.50, £10.50, £12.50. Groups 10+ free in every 10. See page 43.
Sun. 1st June - The Osmonds
At the 02 Arena, Docklands, London at 8pm. 0871 984 0002.
Sat. 7th & 8th June - (Advance Notice)
Jools Holland & The Zutons
At Bedgebury Pinetum near Goudhurst. See page 44 for advertisement.
Last few tickets remaining for this ever popular artist.
Sun. 8th June - Swing Session 6
At the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne at 7.30pm. With the Paul Davis Big Band. Vocalist Jacquie Toye and special guests Dennis Lotis and Sheila Tracy.