box office: 01234 362337 welcome www.bedfringe.com

Welcome to the 12th annual Bedford Festival Fringe. More than 50 events over

Ffriovme th ed Feastiyvasl D! irector From the Festival Co-Director and Assistant Director Welcome once again to Bedford’s answer to The 12 years eh? Who’d of thunk it. The naïve 17-year-olds, who only Edinburgh Fringe… understood a fringe to be the thing that your mother cut embarrassingly unevenly as a child, have blossomed into the This year we are running the festival over five days; festival-wise co and assistant directors of this fine event. So, we some of you may ask “hang on… didn’t I read it as would give you, the fabulous Bedfringe audience, some of our 19 – 22 July some time back?” Well, yes! You are recommendations and hopefully inspire you to join us for the correct, only we were offered some really cool 2018 Festival: comedians with availability on 18th July so we Who are your Festival Favourites for 2018? thought we must extend it for an extra day! Lily: (drumroll for the longest company name at the festival…) Look out for Lost Voice Guy whose YouTube BGT The Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre Company are always audition video has currently gathered 4.8million fantastic but also Bedfringe would not be Bedfringe without a views (at time of writing)! cuddle from Mr Patrick Monahan (returning for his mammoth 11th festival) Do you like the brochure front cover and our Fi: The return of Murder She Didn’t Write (an improvised posters / flyers this year? The artwork for these has Whodunit) who are back after a great show at Bedfringe 2017 and been designed by children from Bedfordshire run at the Edinburgh Fringe, also the always mind-boggling magic schools. Congratulations to our winner Makaiya of Pete Firman. Kosic whose design is featured on the front cover of this brochure, as well as the festival posters and What would you suggest for people who have flyers. never been to Bedfringe before? Lily: I would say come down (on what will hopefully be a glorious Our two runners up were Issabelle Brazier and Tesfa sunny weekend) to see some of our free events on the garden Bernard, and their artwork is also featured on the stage, have a drink at the bar and enjoy the atmosphere. posters and flyers. Fi: Take a punt. Of course come and see our headline acts but take All three received a book bundle from Bedfringe a risk on something a bit different. You never know who you which was selected by Rogan’s Books. We hope to might see here that goes on to great things. continue this competition into 2019 and beyond! What makes Bedfringe for you? Many thanks to Kayte Judge at The Culture Lily: The Volunteers – we have the most incredible group of Front Challenge for leading this new project. of House and Technical volunteers, many of whom come back to I’m about to hand you over to Fiona and Lilly but help us year on year from their various places within the industry. before I go, here are my 2018 director’s picks: The Fi: The support of local people – we have audience members that Lost Voice Guy, Gary Delaney, Mat Ricardo and Pip take annual leave to be able to come to as many festival events as Utton’s brand new show Before I Forget I Love you, possible, also those that come to see one show and stay for a I Love You. Happy fringing everybody! whole day! h t d o r b o f s s i x A w

u e a H r

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a n k b a r r d a a i B M A

: : : y y y h h h p p p a a a r r r g g g o o o t t t o o o h h h P P P James Pharaoh Fiona Fowler Lily Hannant

2 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com welcome

Bedfringe Team Event Categories Director ...... James Pharaoh Co-Director ...... Fiona Fowler Welcome Pages Assistant Director & Social Media Manager: Lily Hannant Quarry Theatre ...... Children’s Theatre Technician: Jacob Newton Website Des...... ign: ...... We Can Creative Comedy Front of House (at time of going to print) : Alex Monks, James Mann, Alice Wright, Hywel Thomas, Mark Steinhardt, Logan Jones, Theatre Conrad Staroscik, Jackie Thomas, David Baxter, James Doughty, Helena Prettyman, Annette Hickey, Jonny Hosking, Ethan Dance & Physical Theatre Chappell-Mason, Megan Holden, Oliver Milton and Tom Walker. Additional thanks to : Bedford School, The Music Harpur Trust, All Our Fabulous Poster Artists, Sandara Dudley, Kayte Judge, Annaley Pharaoh, Vanessa Pharaoh, Willow Pharaoh Other Events and Erica Roffe.

With thanks to our 2018 sponsors OUR 2018 PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

MANY THANKS TO THE CULTURE CHALLENGE FOR LEADING OUR ARTWORK COMPETITION

THIS YEAR’S CHARITY

3 box office: 01234 362337 how to fringe www.bedfringe.com

visit the theatre website. Please leave a message if Take a punt the call is not answered and a member of staff at the venue will get back to you. The box office First things first… have a look through our brochure telephone number is 01234 362337. and see what takes your fancy. Remember, Bedfringe is all about discovering new experiences Booking tickets: This year tickets for our events and new work. can be purchased online at www.bedfringe.com Booking fees apply – £1.50 per cart/transaction. Every year we see many of our artists go onto big things, so be the first to see them here! Your might like to add a donation to Autism Bedfordshire at time of booking. Please note: The programme is subject to change so please check the website for all updates. Social: Follow us on Twitter Age suitability: The age ratings are there to try to and Facebook! Use help you gauge appeal. It’s not a legal restriction. #bedfringe to tag your comments. All events are self rated. Bedfringe is not liable for /bedfringe @bedfringe any incorrect rating. Box office opening times: The Quarry Theatre phone line will be manned 10am – 10.00pm during Go straight to the Bedfringe the festival. For other Quarry opening times, please website (scan QRcode).

Terms & Conditions: The Bedfringe programme is subject to change so please visit our website for all our latest updates. Tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded except in the event of a show cancellation or a show being The Quarry Theatre has wheelchair re-scheduled. Latecomers may not be admitted. General concession prices are access and parking provision for applicable to students, the unemployed, people with disabilities (often with one helper), wheelchair users. Please contact over-60s and children under the age of 16 (Except children’s shows). Proof of status the venue if you require disabled may be required at the venue. Please note that some shows may start late or over-run parking prior to your visit. the planned running time. Full terms & conditions are presented at time of purchase.

For all your personal and business legal needs

01234 270600 www .woodfines.co.uk 16 St Cuthberts Str eet, Bedfor d, MK40 3JG e: mail@woodfines.co.uk

4 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com venue info

The venues Venue 1: The Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN www.quarrytheatre.org.uk Venue 1: Main Auditorium Venue 2: The Studio Theatre Venue 3: The Garden Stage

QUEEN’S STREET CAR PARK

ST PETER’S VENUES ST CAR PARK 1-3 §ST PETER’S CHURCH

LURKE STREET CAR PARK

E LAN LE AST § ST PAUL’S C SQUARE

THE SWAN HOTEL THE EMBANKMENT

5 box office: 01234 362337 Wednesday 18 July www.bedfringe.com

FROM THE IN ADDITION WATER’S Set in a near-future Britain where EDGE healthcare is The space where privatised, a young land, air and couple's water come relationship is together. quietly pulled apart A place of by an aggressive transformation, lack of sleep. suffering and joy. A piece of physical Join folk and theatre with score story telling duo Karuna, Stuart Prince, Ukulele, Harmonium and by YouTuber Vocals and Rosamund Hoskins, Viola, Violin and Vocals as they Christopher 'Bing' narrate and, perform music and songs on a journey from where we Bingham. are, around the globe and back again. In Addition realises the spiralling of minute problems in a life Journey down the river Thames in a Royal barge, and Thames without the NHS. sailing barge. “Powerful… surreal and original.” Eastern Daily Press Meet characters from Dickensian London, whalers, adventurers, Shortlisted for the Les Enfants Terribles Edinburgh Award 2018 gold diggers and entrepreneurs as we join the gold rush to Australia and partake in the grain races aboard a windjammer. Songs will be a mix of original material and covers.

Ticket Price: £9.00 (£8.00 concession) Ticket Price: £9.00 (£8.00 concession) MAIN AUDITORIUM STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ Time: 6.00pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 6.30pm Running Time: 60mins

LOST VOICE GUY: ADAM VINCENT: INSPIRATION STUCK IN THE PORN SUBURBS WITH YOU BBC New Comedy Award See this award nominated (best winner and star and comedy Buxton Fringe 2017) writer of BBC Radio 4’s Australian stand up (now lives brand new comedy in Bedford) who played to full series, Ability, has houses throughout his entire unwittingly become an Edinburgh Festival run (2017). unintentional porn star See the man who writes for because of the Adam Hills on Channel 4’s inspirational memes that award winning flagship show are everywhere these The Last Leg (not the leg days. Come and see why jokes). he doesn’t want to be an See how family demands, societal expectations and unfulfilled joys inspiration because of these stupid memes and why he thinks are controlling his life (true). they’re bollocks. He may not be able to talk but he definitely has something to say and his comedy will leave you speechless. “Makes me laugh louder and more inappropriately than most people I know” Adam Hills “Laugh-out loud funny” ★★★★ The Independent “One of those rare comedians who make it all look so easy” “Savagely funny” ★★★★ Wee Review The Age ” “Candid & inspiring...consistently hilarious” Recklessly honest and entirely relatable” Chortle Broadway Baby ★★★★ “Undeniably one of the more talented comedians I have seen” AS SEEN ON BRITAIN’S GOT TALENT 2018 Broadway Baby

Ticket Price: £12.00 (£10.00 concession) Ticket Price: £10.00 (£9.00 concession) MAIN AUDITORIUM STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ Time: 7.30pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 8.00pm Running Time: 60mins

6 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com Wednesday 18 July

GARY DELANEY: DIANE SPENCER: WORK IN PROGRESS 2018 COLLECTION Following on from his A brand new stand-up comedy successful appearances on hour from delightfully engaging Mock The Week, Live at the comedian Diane Spencer. Apollo and his nationwide tours With her charming onstage Gary is now working on a new persona and refreshingly tour show. honest confessional style, He will be testing a rough and Diane delivers heart-warming ready big bag of new born autobiographical wit and laugh- jokes. out-loud humour. Come and help him figure out Her other seven hit shows are which should be immediately all available on YouTube. put down for a good school and “Not for the faint-hearted but which should be quietly also not to be missed” drowned in a bucket. ★★★★★ ThreeWeeks “A hugely impressive collection “Artists use paint to depict their work, Ms Spencer uses well- of exquisitely crafted gags by crafted words and stories to illustrate her art, words that ensured one of Britain’s grandmasters her set was full of genuine laugh out loud moments.” of the one-liner” Chortle ★★★★ One4Review “I laughed, I laughed and I “Personable, ballsy and hilarious” Broadway Baby laughed “ Times ★★★★ Woman of the Year 2013 The New Current Best Newcomer 2011 Chortle

Ticket Price: £12.00 (£10.00 concession) Ticket Price: £9.00 (£8.00 concession) MAIN AUDITORIUM STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 18yrs+ Time: 9.00pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 9.15pm Running Time: 60mins

7 box office: 01234 362337 Thursday 19 July www.bedfringe.com

PLAY / TIME Play is an essential part of human development that somehow gets lost as we grow older. Play enables us to engage with our inner sense of creativity and imagination, whilst engaging with EVOLUTION OF WOMEN others in a shared moment of fun. From the starting point of Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution Play / Time is an open workshop that will give participants an Model, the Evolution of Women focuses more so on the evolution opportunity to engage in spontaneous play in a spirit of conviviality, of women in society, the evolution of female choreographers within acceptance and joy. the dance industry; as well as the general evolution of women. Play / Time does not require any specific skills other than a The dancers take on the challenge to exploit the strength of willingness to be playful! The workshop is open to all regardless of women. Their execution is athletic, strong and powerful, which abilities or background. incorporates weight baring engagements as well as physically risk The workshop is led by J. F. Jacques who is artistic director of taking movements. Kempston Community Theatre. The empowerment of women comes to mind… This MA work was given a First Class Award in choreography. Includes a post performance Q&A

£Pay what you want Ticket Price: £6.50 (£5.50 concession) MAIN AUDITORIUM STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 6.00pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 6.30pm Running Time: 30mins

GERARD HARRIS: ATTENTION SEEKER The shy, anxious joke writer for a top comedian accidentally crashes into the stand-up spotlight and, armed with paralysing fear, blind panic and jokes the comedian didn’t buy, sets out to prove just who’s really the funny one... and the rest is history. Except history is normally written by the winners. An award-winning Off-Broadway and global Fringe hit from the mildly acclaimed British-Canadian stand-up & storyteller, it’s also a true story that dares confront those age-old conflicts of Nature vs Nurture, Heart vs Mind, Comedian vs Comedian and Chocolate vs Poo. Best Solo Show, Nelson Fringe 2016 Best Comedy, Dunedin Fringe 2016 Best of Fest, Ottawa Fringe 2016 “Incredibly smart & funny ★★★★★ Edmonton Journal, CAN “All the wit and timing of an accomplished road comic” ★★★★ Winnipeg Free Press, CAN “A masterful storyteller” Stage Whispers, AUS

Ticket Price: £9.00 (£8.00 concession) STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ Time: 7.30pm Running Time: 60mins

8 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com Thursday 19 July

SIMON ROBIN BOOT’S MUNNERY: ROCKOMEDY: THE WREATH WELCOME TO THE Simon Munnery returns PUNGLE to Bedfringe once again! After sell-out Edinburgh shows in “I went to a funeral the 2015, 2016 and 2017, Robin other day. Caught the Boot is bringing his latest wreath…” That’s what Rockomedy masterpiece to came to me, from the Bedford Fringe! mysterious source of the Clever wordplay, darkly surreal inexplicable. Hear the lyrics, tasty guitar skills, story of the joke, the percussive feet and beautiful hair painting, and what happened next. – rock’n’roll has never been so funny! Simon is a British Comedy Award nominee, Perrier Award nominee “Voted one of the top three New Comedians of 2016” and Chortle Award winner. He’s a star of Comedy Central’s Last Minute Comedy Alternative Comedy Experience – as seen on BBC2’s Culture Show and heard on Radio 4’s News Quiz, amongst others. “Always a favourite with the crowd” John Wildgoose, Into The Wild Festival “Poetic, quicksilver smart and blessed with a ceaselessly inventive comic brain” The Scotsman “Big presence, big delivery, big laughs” ★★★★★ Paul Revill, Castle Comedy “One of the finest gag writers in the business” The List ★★★★ “The Springsteen of Comedy” G&B Comedy “Convention defying, innovative stuff. Simon Munnery is a brilliant comedian” The Times “A one-man pun machine” Christian O’Connell, Absolute Radio Make Freddie Laugh, Edinburgh 2017 - Winner

Ticket Price: £12.00 (£10.00 concession) Ticket Price: £12.00 (£10.00 concession) MAIN AUDITORIUM STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ Time:7.30pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 9.00pm Running Time: 55mins

SCOTTISH FALSETTO SOCK PUPPET THEATRE: SUPERHEROES Back with a brand new show! Sock! Pow! Wham! Earth’s funniest footwear are back with their 10th new show of songs, sketches, socks & violence. This time they’re real live Superheroes! You think you’ve seen heroes in tights before? This pair will run and run. “Space age comedy to knock your socks off” ★★★★ Daily Record “Had every single audience member… laughing until they cried.” ★★★★★ Edinburgh Evening News

Ticket Price: £12.00 (£10.00 concession) MAIN AUDITORIUM ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ Time: 9.15pm Running Time: 60mins

9 box office: 01234 362337 Friday 20 July www.bedfringe.com

DIRTY WHITE BOYS: MANNERS The award-winning double act are back with a fresh hour of fast paced idiocy. Expect quizzes, Shakespeare, and CONSTELLATIONS maybe a musical finale. Often silly, sometimes rude, constantly One relationship. Infinite possibilities. hilarious. “The basic laws of physics don’t have a past and a present. Time is “A slick operation with punchlines to match... Pitch perfect!” irrelevant at the level of atoms and molecules. It’s symmetrical. We ★★★★ Mumble Comedy have all the time we’ve always had. You’ll still have all our time.” “Exceptional sketches... highly talented” FringeBiscuit Nick Payne’s “Astonishingly fine new play” (The Independent 2012) ★★★★ is laced with humour, pathos and drama. “This comedy duo have oodles of talent up the yin-yang... Clever, witty, and brilliantly acted” LondonTheatre1 Ed Hulme’s new production of this dazzling play about free will and ★★★★ friendship, quantum multiverse theory, love and honey, features “Wrapped with comic cleverness” ★★★★ Young Perspective Marissa Rowell as Marianne & Damian Schedler Cruz as Roland. “Spectacularly and compellingly funny” The List Ensemble work at a high level.” ★★★★★ Remotegoat (For The Long Mirror, 2018)

Ticket Price: £9.00 (£10.00 concession) Ticket Price: £9.00 (£10.00 concession) MAIN AUDITORIUM STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ Time: 6.00pm Running Time: 70mins Time: 6.00pm Running Time: 60mins

NICK HALL: SPENCER Spencer Percival has one claim to fame. He’s the only British Prime Minister ever to be assassinated. Unfortunately no one’s ever heard of him. 206 years later, Nick Hall tells his story. In this inventive and hilarious journey through history, Nick brings alive the world of the 19th century, while drawing parallels with the present. In this age of Brexit, Trump, Corbynista and Maybot, could we still learn something from the past? As seen on BBC2, BBC3, and heard on BBC Radio 4! ★★★★ Broadway Baby “Side splittingly funny” ★★★★★ ThreeWeeks “Mad cap energy” ★★★★★ British Comedy Guide “Crackingly original” ★★★★ The List “One not to miss” ★★★★ The Skinny

Ticket Price: £10.00 (£9.00 concession) STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 12yrs+ Time: 7.30pm Running Time: 50mins

10 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com Friday 20 July

ROBIN MORGAN: HONEYMOON July: Robin’s wedding. Three days later: a month away without his wife. Not exactly the ideal honeymoon. Brand new hour from the The News Quiz (BBC Radio 4) writer. ★★★★ Sunday Times “Utterly hilarious” ★★★★ Broadway Baby HARDEEP SINGH KOHLI The host of BBC Radio 4’s Sketchtopia, and BBC1 Question Time & This Week regular, follows up his acclaimed 2017 hit with a brand- new show mixing his trademark “worldly wit and fabulous punchlines” ★★★★ Fest “Immensely funny” Daily Express Double Bill Ticket Price: £15.00 (£13.00 concession) “Consistently thought-provoking” ★★★★ Arts Award Voice “Something quite special... inbetween the laughter are stories of MAIN AUDITORIUM genuine power” Broadway Baby ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ ★★★★ Time: 8.00pm Running Time: 135mins+interval

JACK LEFT TOWN: THE IMPROVISED ROCKUMENTARY Spinal Tap meets Whose Line is it Anyway? Jack Left Town is the greatest band the world has ever known. The only problem is, they never existed. Based on audience suggestions, we hear about their childhoods, their lost loves, trashed hotel rooms, run-ins with the law, and how it all inspired their iconic debut album (name TBD). A charming and silly parody of rockstar lifestyles with a strong absurdity curve and some sweet, sweet air guitar. “Astounding” ★★★★ Arthur’s Seat “Enormous fun” ★★★★ London Pub Theatres

Ticket Price: £10.00 (£9.00 concession) STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ Time: 9.00pm Running Time: 60mins

11 box office: 01234 362337 Saturday 21 July www.bedfringe.com

DANCEVYBZ Dancevybz is an established dance school in Beds, Bucks and Northants. TAKE THE STAGE We have competed all over Europe and USA and have won many VyMy Dance brings all of its classes together for an end of term National and International titles for our street dance. showcase. Get ready for an extravaganza of street dance, We have over 30 classes a week across the three counties and contemporary, musical theatre, ballet and even some of the pupils’ cater for all ages and abilities. own creations. A celebration of the hard work and talent of VyMy Our classes are fun, creative, inspiring and designed to build Dance students. confidence and passion.

Ticket Price: £8.00 (£7.00 concession) Ticket Price: £10.00 (£9.00 concession) STUDIO THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 10.00am Running Time: 60mins Time:12.00pm Running Time: 60mins

SESKA: FRUIT SALAD! SESKA performs incredibly silly magic tricks… repeats them again but with a crazy added difference… And when you spot the difference you win a fab prize! A party atmosphere, hilarious entertainment and a competition all in one… SELLS OUT SUPER-FAST SO GET THE TICKETS NOW DONUTFACES! Crazier than finding a penguin in your fridge – when SESKA comes to town kids laugh out loud, Dads f*rt out loud and mums faint at his feet! “Children will be spellbound for 50 minutes of silliness” Broadway Baby KINETIC VIBES 2018 SHOWCASE Kinetic Vibes return for their 11th Bedfringe performance! “Here at Kinetic Vibes, we are passionate about dance and we pride ourselves on offering high-quality, professional and affordable dance classes for students in the Bedford area from aged 2-92 years !”

Ticket Price: £8.50 (£7.50 concession) Ticket Price: £9.00 (£8.00 concession) STUDIO THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 12.00pm Running Time: 50mins Time: 2.00pm Running Time: 60mins

12 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com Saturday 21 July

DISTURBING THE DUST Lost Key Theatre invites you to a world lit only by a skylight, where playtime never stops. Antonio, Teddy and Annabella have been in the attic longer than they can remember when they are introduced to UKE BELONG TO ME someone new. Tom Ellwood, mid-twenties Zoologist, lover of words and innocently bird watching comes across a dishevelled, ukulele- Sketch isn ʼt like any holding runaway bride, Kitty Chen stuck in a tree. Little does he other toy they have know this is about how his life changed. met and they struggle to understand this. Through witty dialogue, the odd quirky tune and a bit of 21st century technology, watch as these two polar opposites have a Disturbing The Dust rollercoaster relationship which travels all around the world (well… explores the life of four very different characters stuck in an attic some European countries). and how they each deal with their confinement and escape attempts on a daily basis. Winner of Cambridge and Sawston Drama Festivals, and Audience Award Winner at the British All Winners Festival 2017 So, open the hatch, let down the ladder and come on in.

Ticket Price: £9.00 (£8.00 concession) Ticket Price: £9.00 (£8.00 concession) STUDIO THEATRE STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 12yrs+ ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 12yrs+ Time: 2.00pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 4.00pm Running Time: 60mins

MURDER, SHE MAT RICARDO vs DIDN’T WRITE THE WORLD ‘Degrees of Error’ Award-winning cabaret star present... and the UK’s most successful A classic murder juggler, Mat Ricardo, had a mystery is created on the problem – after a 30-year spot in this ingenious career as the go-to guy for and hilarious show from jaw-dropping dexterity, he'd Bristol Improv Theatre’s run out of new tricks. resident company. So he did something stupid. You become Agatha He bet everyone in the world Christie in this that he could learn any trick improvised comedy as they could think of. an original murder This is a one-man variety mystery play is created show – world-class juggling, based entirely on magic and illusion, audience suggestions. So take up your magnifying glasses and don escapology, sleight of hand, knife-throwing, stand-up comedy, feats your deerstalkers for never-seen-before (and never-to-be-seen- of strength, demonstrations of dexterity and the only good trick again) evening of murder, mayhem and making it up on the spot. that exists with a fidget spinner. “Absolutely fantastic… incredibly clever… laugh out loud funny… ★★★★★ “Brilliant” The Herald a truly entertaining and hilarious take on the murder mystery and ★★★★ “Captivating” The Scotsman absolutely not one to miss” Voice Magazine ★★★★★ “Probably the best juggler you will ever see” What’s On Stage “Had me howling with laughter… the Murder, She Didn’t Write troupe are mesmerizingly impressive” ★★★★ Arthur’s Seat

Ticket Price: £10.00 (£9.00 concession) Ticket Price: £10.00 (£9.00 concession) MAIN AUDITORIUM MAIN AUDITORIUM ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 12yrs+ ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 12yrs+ Time: 4.00pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 6.00pm Running Time: 60mins

13 box office: 01234 362337 Saturday 21 July www.bedfringe.com

OWEN ROBERTS: WE ARE HEROES I LET A SIX-YEAR-OLD One year ago Sara and Elizabeth met in Bedford WRITE MY SHOW and bonded over a mutual After a severe case of writer’s frustration that their acting block, Owen has thrown caution and performance careers to the wind and decided to let a were not as they thought six year old child write his show they would be. for him. Kids are funny, right? However, they decided to What could possibly go wrong? assist each other in the She can’t spell, she can’t focus for search for success, more than three minutes, and her whatever that is. ideas are wildly unrealistic to say Drawing on the least. autobiographical From a cross dressing police officer’s adventures in Africa, to a experiences of life as an man eating foot that lives under the sea, this is a show is about aspiring performer We Are how children think and how annoying they are to work with. Heroes is the story of two From one third of the critically acclaimed sketch group BEASTS “A women’s attempts to tsunami of silliness” ★★★★ Telegraph understand the insecurities that stood in the way of achieving a life-long goal, and how forging a new friendship can turn that fate Press for BEASTS around. “Hilarious” ★★★★ Telegraph Join Bedford’s newest theatre company as it transforms a chance “Unforgettably nutty” ★★★★ Times meeting between two people into an epic quest of self-realisation “Deliciously demented” ★★★★ Metro for an inner hero that can make your dreams come true.

Ticket Price: £11.00 (£9.00 concession) Ticket Price: £10.00 (£9.00 concession) STUDIO THEATRE STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 12yrs+ Time: 6.00pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 7.30pm Running Time: 60mins

PETE FIRMAN: EDINBURGH PREVIEW Pete returns to Bedford with his brand new Edinburgh show. “The UK’s leading comedy magician” (Time Out) is returning to the Fringe with an astonishing new show. As seen on ITV1’s ‘Tonight at the London Palladium’ and ‘The Next Great Magician’ and BBC1’s ‘The John Bishop Show’ and ‘The Sarah Millican Television Programme.’ Expect Pete’s trademark blend of laugh-out-loud comedy and jaw- dropping magic. “The man from Middlesbrough sets the pace for comedy-meets- magic in the 21st century.” Times “The new poster-boy for British comedy magic. ” Telegraph “Seamless blending of quality magic and stand-up comedy. It is a joy to watch.” Edinburgh Festivals Magazine “Breathtaking illusions.” List

Ticket Price: £10.00 (£12.00 concession) MAIN AUDITORIUM ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ Time: 7.45pm Running Time: 60mins

14 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com Saturday 21 July

EDDIE SUMMERS: PATRICK ROCKET FUEL! MONAHAN: Explosive Eddie’s looking #GOALS for one lucky new flat Multi award winning mate. comedian and Fringe Could you cope with the Favourite, returns with energy bomb? another brand new stand up Expect toast, kissing, rap, show, #goals. We all have life catwhiskers, violence, goals, whether it’s to win the flirting with an apple lottery or marry up, make it crumble and a giant rabbit! your goal to come and watch an hour of great comedy from “a uniquely brilliant high- an Irish Iranian smoggy! octane comedian!” Constantly Touring, comedy website Ents24 has listed him for the “a supremely confident past 3 years in the Top 3 of the hardest working comedians in the performer, infectious UK. energy, crazily random/disconcertingly normal” “A definite must see” ★★★★ Edinburgh Festivals Magazine , “Highly Recommended! ” Fringe Review ★★★★ The Scotsman “Patrick’s a Fringe Legend and it is easy to see why!” ★★★★ Mirror

Ticket Price: £10.00 (£9.00 concession) Ticket Price: £12.00 (£10.00 concession) STUDIO THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ Time: 9.10pm Running Time: 50mins Time: 9.15pm Running Time: 60mins

15 box office: 01234 362337 Sunday 22 July www.bedfringe.com

FILM SCREENING: SONG OF THE SEA Bedford Film Festival and Bedfringe love working together, especially when we can show works of art on the big screen. There are films that stand out above all others as works of art. Then there are films where every frame is a work of art that takes your breath away. Song of the Sea is one of those films. This enchanting Irish animation tells the story of Ben and his little sister Saoirse, the last Seal-child, who embark on a fantastic journey across a fading world of ancient legend and magic in an attempt to return to their home by the sea. The film takes inspiration from the mythological Selkies of Irish folklore, who live as seals in the sea but become humans on land. Featuring the voices of Brendan Gleeson, Fionnula Flanagan, David Rawle, Lisa Hannigan, Pat Shortt and Jon Kenny, the Song of the Sea is a film that will enchant children and warm adult hearts. “Every scene of Tomm Moore’s beautifully drawn, Oscar-nominated animation feels like a warm hug at bedtime” ★★★★★ The Telegraph “A wonderful family animation, rich in Irish folklore” ★★★★★ Mark Kermode “An exquisitely composed film, teeming with curiosities and compassion.” ★★★★★ Empire Did you come and see this film in 2016? Do get on touch! [email protected] Ticket Price: £7.50 (£6.50 concession) MAIN AUDITORIUM ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 10.30am Running Time: 90mins

THE RELUCTANT AND BEFORE I DRAGON FORGET I LOVE YOU, I Munchkins & Monsters LOVE YOU return to Bedford Festival The multi-award winning (17 Fringe after their 2017 awards!) Edinburgh Fringe ‘Sell Out’ performance of legend returns to Bedfringe with Wind in the Willows with a brand new show! their brand new show, The Reluctant Dragon! Pip Utton, one of the world’s foremost solo performers Long ago, in a time that (Adolf, Churchill, Chaplin, has almost been forgotten, in a land unlike anything that you are Playing Maggie) returns to the likely to find today, there was once a kingdom but in this kingdom Fringe with his moving and not everything is as it seems… affectionate performance about Not all dragons are bad and not all people are good. the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s. Meet Assipattle, a young girl who believe in magic and dragons! Pip is famed for his skill in ‘breaking the fourth wall’ and speaking One day, her cruel and treacherous siblings hatch a horrid plan to directly to an audience involving them in the emotions of his banish her and take over the family farm for themselves. Alone and performance. Based on his personal experience of seeing his afraid, she finds friendship from an unlikely companion… mother deteriorate and die with Alzheimer’s and on intensive Neak the dragon! research, Pip’s character takes the audience with him on a journey Featuring playful puppetry, dance, songs and much more, The full of smiles, laughter, respect and tears. Reluctant Dragon invites you to a world of fantasy you’ll never want WINNER: The Stage Special Award for Acting Excellence 2015 to leave! (Playing Maggie) WINNER: FringeReview Award for Outstanding Theatre 2015 (Playing Maggie)

Ticket Price: £8.50 (£7.50 concession) Ticket Price: £10.00 (£9.00 concession) MAIN AUDITORIUM MAIN AUDITORIUM ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 13yrs+ Time: 12.00pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 1.00pm Running Time: 60mins

16 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com Sunday 22 July

WAYLAND NATURE KNOWS THE SMITH BEST And how he repaid the A compilation of three short injustice done to him comedy plays by Devonshire A storytelling performance playwright Nick Discombe. by Mark Steinhardt, back at “Sheep Mount” is a hilarious, Bedfringe for the fifth time. yet poignant piece, in which After the bronze, iron. an ewe and a ram escape their depressing lives on an The iron moved west, enclosed farm in Devon, to changed the world, made roam free on Dartmoor. The an empire. defiant ewe Zoe, who is fed up of the farmer taking her young, In the North, beyond the hopes to rescue her relationship with her ram, Wayne despite his forests, there arose smiths roving eye. of skills unsurpassed. “Sea Gull Heaven” gives us a look into the life of two gulls that have And the greatest of these been living out their days at a tip where there are easy pickings for was Wayland. food, because of mans wasteful habits. He was a Saxon, his story “Seahorse Ride” changes our perceptions as we see conventional is as old as any from the north. The story of a king, cruel and roles within a relationship switch. The male of the species carries dishonest, setting the world askew, and of how Wayland restores the children and gives birth to them which he is not at all happy the balance, exacting no more, no less, than what he is owed. about. Not just for the obvious reason but also because of mans But at what cost? effects on environment, which are deteriorating any chance of his births being successful. Touching, modern, yet Aesop like ” The National Theatre

Ticket Price: £9.00 (£8.00 concession) Ticket Price: £10.00 (£9.00 concession) STUDIO THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 10+yrs ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 12yrs+ Time: 2.00pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 3.00pm Running Time: 60mins

GEOFF NORCOTT: WORK IN PROGRESS Star of Mash Report, Live at the Apollo, Question Time and his own Radio 4 special. Comedy’s premier right of centre comic is working up a new hour of provocative and playful humour. Also written for Have I Got news for you, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order and Channel 4’s alternative THE COMMITTEE: IMPROVISED COMEDY Election. ★★★★ Telegraph London’s hottest new improvised comedy group, The Committee, bring their hilarious long form improv show to the ★★★★ New European Bedfringe. Everything made up on the spot by performers as seen ★★★★ Mail on Sunday on BBC 1, Channel 4 and BBC Radio 4. ★★★★ Mirror All they need to start is just one single word from you, the audience. “Making their Edinburgh debut, this new team have a real buzz about them with an inventive style of improv” The Times

Ticket Price: £9.00 (£8.00 concession) Ticket Price: £10.00 (£12.00 concession) STUDIO THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ Time: 4.00pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 5.00pm Running Time: 60mins

17 box office: 01234 362337 Sunday 22 July www.bedfringe.com

PAUL REVILL: ALL THE REVILLATIONSHIPS THINGS YOU Award-winning comedian Paul HAVE EVER Revill returns with a brand new show. With a marriage date set, LOST a dog rescued and a death in An improvised the family, it’s time to look at comedy about the relationships! things that get “This bright sparky chappy was lost...and found. a real quick witted geezer” What happens to the ★★★★ sock in the washing ArtsinLeicestershire.co.uk machine, the keys dropped down the sofa, or the thoughts we lose track of? “Steals the show” ★★★★ ThreeWeek All the Things You Have Ever Lost is a comedy show which finds inspiration in the things that you have lost, abandoned or simply “There’s a notable charm in the forgotten about. A set of scenes and sketches where the misplaced gag delivery that shows skill takes centre stage. with a punchline. The show is an argument for Revill’s “The best part of this kind of theatre is that it enables the talented decision to be a comedian, and it’s a convincing one” Fest, 2017 cast to show their best qualities, from quick thinking to their imaginative ability to reconstruct objects with hand gestures. Each of the cast shone in this respect.” The Cambridge Student website

Ticket Price: £11.00 (£9.00 concession) Ticket Price: £9.00 (£8.00 concession) STUDIO THEATRE MAIN AUDITORIUM ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 12yrs+ Time: 6.00pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 6.30pm Running Time: 60mins

TOM HOUGHTON: THE HONOURABLE TOM HOUGHTON Tom’s just been made “The Honourable”. Not by his own merit (he’s been sacked from Weatherspoons twice) but the traditional aristocratic way, by default. Basically, his Dad, Ex- Chief of Defence Staff and current Constable of the Tower of London, was inducted into the House of Lords, making Tom “honourable”, apparently. The 2017 sell-out, critically-acclaimed star of BBC, Comedy Central BEDFORD ’S INDEPENDENT MONTHL Y and Channel 4 presents his second show, reminiscing on growing AR T & CUL TURE MA GAZINE up and discovering that true honour often lies where you’d least expect. PROUDL Y SUPPOR TING “This unexpected tour de force warrants a 21-gun salute” BEDFRINGE SINCE 2011 ★★★★ The Daily Telegraph “A crafty idiot” ★★★★ The Daily Mail As seen on BBC1, BBC3, Channel 4’s “First dates” and Comedy Central’s “The Jim Jefferies Show” www .thebedfordclanger .com

Ticket Price: £11.00 (£9.00 concession) TheBedfordClanger @bedfordclanger STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ Time: 7.30pm Running Time: 60mins

18 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com Sunday 22 July

‘BEST OF’ CASTLE COMEDY SPECIAL BEDFORD’S NO.1 COMEDY CLUB The Best Of Castle Comedy Special is returning to Bedfringe on July 22nd. Once again three of the biggest comedy stars from the UK comedy circuit will be taking the stage for the ultimate comedy show. Opening the show is Lucy Porter . She is one of the most loveable comics in the country and a fringe favourite! She starred in the new series of ‘Live at the Apollo’ and has also appeared on ‘QI’, ‘Nevermind the Buzzcocks’, ‘Mock The Week’ Atlantic’s ‘Set List’ and ‘Russell Howard’s Good News’. and ‘Have I got News for You’. “Fresh, accessible and hilarious” The Guardian “Porter is one of the most talented comics on the circuit. Brilliantly The Raymond and Mr Timpkins Revue will close the show. They crafted jokes. This is get happy comedy at its very best.” are without a doubt the maddest, silliest, stupidest, cleverest, ★★★★★ Time Out strangest and the funniest double act of comedians on the circuit. Next up is Marcel Likened to Morecambe and Wise and the Two Ronnies, they count Lucont . He is a David Walliams amongst their legion of fans. Guaranteed to bring flâneur, raconteur, the house down. bon-viveur, and “A mad, anarchic triumph of stupidity over style. Not to be missed” easily the greatest The Guardian UK-based French comedian around! He has appeared on £16 (No concessions) ‘The John Bishop MAIN AUDITORIUM Show’, ‘Live at The ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ Electric’, Sky Time: 8.15pm Running Time: 105mins

IVO GRAHAM Bedfringe favourite Ivo Graham returns! After three blissfully happy summers at Bedfringe, Graham’s jumping on an advanced-booked East Midlands Train and coming back to make it four in a row. A feisty new hour about facing the future, named after my fourth favourite Hot Chip song. As seen on Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, and, crucially, at three previous Bedfringes. Enough to qualify as a Bedfringe Ledgefringe? It’s not for me to say. “Persona and material more polished than ever…on the brink of comedy’s Premier League” Evening Standard “Harp punchlines, topper gags and the unmistakable sense of a young comic finding another gear” The Scotsman As seen/heard on Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo, As Yet Untitled, Russell Howard’s Stand Up Central, Fighting Talk, The Now Show.

Ticket Price: £11.00 (£9.00 concession) STUDIO THEATRE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ Times 9.30pm Running Time: 60mins

19 box office: 01234 362337 Wednesday 18 July www.bedfringe.com On The Garden Stage

REBECCA DE WINTER Rebecca De Winter’s delightful and kooky repertoire features new CHRIS HEPWORTH: RYAN ADAMS TRIBUTE material and songs about books, Campanologists, French boats Chris will perform for us tonight a mini tribute to one of his and seagulls, a shy bride, a London tailor and a lady from Bedford favourite artists, Ryan Adams. adorned solely in Edwardian fashions! The songs are developed If you haven’t heard of him, Ryan is an incredibly successful and like a series of imagined film stills and delivered with narrative, respected American artist in the alternative folk/country scene. His emotion and storytelling at heart. album Gold is not to be missed, as well as everything before and Rebecca’s acoustic three-piece has supported the likes of 10cc’s since. His releases include 1989 on which he recorded covers of Graham Gouldman, International Music Award winners ‘The Webb the whole of Taylor Swifts album, 1989! Sisters, Ivor Novello Award nominees ‘The Leisure Society’ and If you’re already a fan then you will love this, if not, then you can San Diego Music Award winner ‘Eve Selis’ to name a few. expect some of the best written songs you’ve ever heard.

£pay what you want £pay what you want GARDEN STAGE GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 7.30pm Running Time: 30mins Time: 9.00pm Running Time: 60mins

20 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com Thursday 19 July On The Garden Stage JOHN GARDEN: WHAT ARE YOU DOING OUT WITHOUT ANNETTE? Improvised music from composer and musical director John Garden. John has over 20 years’ experience working in the music industry at all levels, both live and in the studio. He is currently on tour with Alison Moyet as musical director, keyboard and guitar player. John co-wrote The Rarest Birds and Reassuring Pinches from Alison’s latest album, Other. “John Garden of the band Scissor Sisters has spent the last few months touring with his thrillingly weird new electronic score for the 1925 Hollywood version of The Lost World.” Sunday Telegraph “An electronic soundscape, somewhere between Brian Eno and Jeff Wayne, full of ominous tones and lurking menace.” Lee Callaway, Bristol Evening Post

£pay what you want GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 7.00pm Running Time: 30mins

SPARKY THE ORATOR Sparky TKO is a purveyor of poetical cabaret, post- punk sensibilities and casual glam aesthetics. Their dalliances with melody and verse evoke hope as much as despair, mild chortles as much as major facepalms. As seen at: Bedfringe 2015 Camden Fringe 2017 and the brief rise and gradual petering-out of #HAND.

£pay what you want GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 8.30pm Running Time: 45mins

21 box office: 01234 362337 Friday 20 July www.bedfringe.com On The Garden Stage ALEX MONKS “It’s been over a week now and I still don’t think I get it, sometimes I just forget it ever happened”. Alex Monks is a spoken word poet from Bedford, who used to do things until he started paying London rent. He likes to focus his writing on the complicated mess of human relationships and the world it all plays out in. It makes him feel a bit better sometimes. Alex has performed sets and won slams across the UK and has delivered two full shows previously at Bedfringe. (‘Poetry and Other Words’ 2012, ‘Poetry and Other Vices’ 2013) He’s very excited to be back.

£pay what you want GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 7.30pm Running Time: 60mins

22 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com

23 box office: 01234 362337 Friday 20 July www.bedfringe.com On The Garden Stage

SOUL FOOD POETRY: UNPLUGGED The Soul Food Poetry platform showcases local talent in the spoken word field. With events in Luton, Bedford, London, Amsterdam and Northampton featuring a line up of local up-and-coming poets and artists gracing the stage; the natural hunger and rawness of their drive and passion is what helps to make Soul Food Poetry such a sought after event! We love spoken word, we love poetry, we love live music and of course we love food! So come down, bring your people and immerse yourselves in two hours of positive vibrations and open honest refreshing spoken words! This time we're going Unplugged!

£pay what you want GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 16yrs+ Friday July 20 – 8.30pm 120mins

24 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com Saturday 21 July On The Garden Stage TIMOTHY “A young British dreamer who sees the world through hopeful eyes, Timothy has been making music for longer than he can remember. Growing up in rural Shropshire, he had the opportunity to experience and experiment music of many genres, from folk to jazz, classical to pop. He has toured in Europe and performed on some of the most prestigious stages in the UK with various bands, and now he wants to show the world his own music. Timothy is a multi-instrumentalist now living in Bedford and loving life, faith and beauty”

£pay what you want GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 11.00am Running Time: 60mins

VOCAL WORKS special ‘gig’ events and work towards Trinity Rock & Pop Vocal examinations. Vocal Works is a modern singing school providing outstanding vocal tuition and musical training for 4-16 year olds led by music industry Vocal Works Bedford was established in 2017 at Goldington professionals. Academy.

Classes are limited to six children of a similar age/ability and focus on £pay what you want the performance of contemporary music styles. GARDEN STAGE Our students study individual and group songs, rehearse with ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages microphones every week, and have the opportunity to perform at Time: 1.00pm Running Time: 60mins

25 box office: 01234 362337 Saturday 21 July www.bedfringe.com On The Garden Stage

FAVOURITE AUNTIES: THE MATURE ‘GIRL’ Favourite Aunties here in Bedford. The aim of the band was to get together to make music simply for the fun of it and to raise money for BAND WITH A SHARED LOVE OF MUSIC good causes. In April 2017, the Favourite Aunties released a CD of AND CUPCAKES original songs, ‘Part Earth, Part Star’, raising money for Bedford’s Friends of Refugees and the Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre. The Jo Hyne (ukulele, percussion, vocals), Chris Mottram-Wooster gig to launch the CD, held at the ‘Shed’ in Castle Road, was a sell out (bass), Anita Gabrielle (guitar, banjo, percussion vocals) are The and described as ‘fun, musical mayhem.’ For Bedfringe 2018, the Favourite Aunties, women of advancing years who play an eclectic Favourite Aunties are excited to be joined by keyboard player and mixture of predominantly acoustic music. The Sex Pistols, Ed composer, Sophie Viney, who, they say, ‘knows all the notes.’ Sheeran, Daft Punk, First Aid Kit and Prince are among artists whom the trio have ‘auntified.’ They also perform their own songs. £pay what you want Anita played in a punk band with Chris and they won the Melody Maker annual competition for rock bands in 1980. Decades later, in GARDEN STAGE 2014, they met Jo singing in a choir and, together, they formed the ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 3.00pm Running Time: 60mins

LUNA Luna are a Bedford-based blues-rock four piece named after a cat. Their eclectic mix of songs ranges from 1965 all the way up to today and covers a wide range of genres – there is definitely something for everyone with this band! They are regulars on the local music scene and can be seen frequenting venues around Bedfordshire. Influences include Fleetwood Mac, Nina Simone, Kings of Leon, Foo Fighters, Paramore, Alicia Keys and many many others, all brought together to give you the unique Luna sound.

£pay what you want GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 5.00pm Running Time: 60mins

26 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com Saturday 21 July On The Garden Stage EDYTA SAVA & FRIENDS Edyta Sava & Friends will play a selection of songs covering soul, old-school rhythm & blues, jazz, and rock-fusion. Ranging from Peter Gabriel’s ballads, through to electrified funk. All songs arranged to put the modern sound of acoustic violin at the centre for the musical experience.

£pay what you want GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 7.00pm Running Time: 30mins

SARA Exciting Hemel Hempstead based artist ‘Sara’ started as a solo music venture by singer songwriter Sarah Cosgrove with the release of her 2017 EP ‘Haunt’. Since then it has evolved to encompass a bigger sound with the addition of three new members and increasingly varied material. Citing influences as diverse as Sufjan Stevens to Frank Ocean, their tone shifts around acoustic, electronic and indie genres, all the while maintaining something personal, with an unnerving vulnerability to their sound. New single ‘Low Signal’ explores the artist’s feelings on her parents moving away to Africa, and reflects on their strained relationship over the years. The single is a huge shift in production from earlier offerings, with bold songwriting that underpins upcoming releases, with Sara’s main aim of always making something meaningful. You will be hearing much more from the songwriter in coming months.

£pay what you want GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 8.30pm Running Time: 30mins

27 box office: 01234 362337 Sunday 22 July www.bedfringe.com On The Garden Stage MAT ROBERTS

Mat Roberts returns to the festival once again. Pull up a bench in the Quarry Garden and enjoy!

FAVOURITE AUNTIES: THE MATURE ‘GIRL’ BAND WITH A SHARED LOVE OF MUSIC AND CUPCAKES Jo Hyne (ukulele, percussion, vocals), Chris Mottram-Wooster (bass), Anita Gabrielle (guitar, banjo, percussion vocals) are The Favourite Aunties, women of advancing years who play an eclectic mixture of predominantly acoustic music. The Sex Pistols, Ed Sheeran, Daft Punk, First Aid Kit and Prince are among artists whom the trio have ‘auntified.’ They also perform their own songs.

£pay what you want £pay what you want GARDEN STAGE GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages time: 11.00pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 1.00pm Running Time: 60mins

CHRIS HEPWORTH Chris will delight us with a selection of songs you’ll have heard before, with some surprising and some familiar arrangements. He may even play the odd request if you’re bold enough to shout them out. Chris plays regularly in and around Bedford with his bands, but more often on his own, and has been performing since he was 14.

£pay what you want GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Sunday July 22 – 3.00pm 60mins

28 box office: 01234 362337 www.bedfringe.com Sunday 22 July On The Garden Stage MARISA JACK AMY DORIS AND DAVY Amy Doris is a singer- Marisa, Jack & Davy’s songwriter from unconventional Bedfordshire who writes interpretation of the and performs folk tradition is shaped psychedelic folk for by the harmonic blend guitar and voice. of their three unique She has been performing voices, acoustic guitar as a covers act under the styles and their music backgrounds. name ‘Acoustic Amy’ for They run Mill Race Folk, a unique and intimate acoustic folk night, many years, and is now which acts as an inspiration and platform for experimenting with ready to present her traditional songs. (more grown up) original repertoire at this year’s Shows are held in various locations around Bedford including an Fringe festival. 18th century watermill, a museum, a community boat and a 15th century timber-framed market hall. Previous performances include: Bedford River Through Mill Race Folk they have shared the stage with Martin Festival, Vicfest (Hitchin), Carthy, John Kirkpatrick and The Askew Sisters. Marisa, Jack & Balstock (Baldock), Davy are using the opportunity to learn straight from the people Oxjam (Bedford), Zone 52 festival (Northampton), Bedford who sing folk songs and are sharing these discoveries via their Esquires. podcast. She is currently working on her debut E.P. More information can be The trio are currently recording in Bromham, Bedfordshire and found on her Facebook page’ continuing to host the Mill Race Folk podcast and Mill Race Folk events in Bedford.

£pay what you want £pay what you want GARDEN STAGE GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD All ages Time: 5.00pm Running Time: 60mins Time: 7.00pm Running Time: 30mins

JOYRIDER (WARM-UP SET) Joyrider brings together some of the most talented musicians in the business. Ray and Ian have worked throughout the music industry, including touring with world-famous bands and eleven years together in pro-band Maxwell, Hammer & Smith. They are joined by the fantastic vocals and exceptional keyboard skills of Lily Norman, also an accomplished professional solo artist. The rhythm section is completed with Mark Stier on the bass. Joyrider will bring the life and soul to any party.

£pay what you want GARDEN STAGE ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ Time: 8.30pm Running Time: 25mins

29 box office: 01234 362337 Sunday 22 July www.bedfringe.com On The Garden Stage

THE 2018 BEDFRINGE CLOSING PARTY completed with Mark Stier on the bass. Music from any decade, from the 60s to latest hits Abba to AC/DC, FEATURING JOYRIDER Beatles to Bruno Mars, Eagles to Ed Sheeran! Come and join us in the garden for the 2018 closing party featuring Joyrider will bring the life and soul to any party. the fabulous Joyrider! Joyrider brings together some of the most talented musicians in the business. Ray and Ian have worked throughout the music industry, including touring with world-famous bands and eleven years £pay what you want together in pro-band Maxwell, Hammer & Smith. They are joined by GARDEN STAGE the fantastic vocals and exceptional keyboard skills of Lily Norman, ST PETER’S STREET, BEDFORD 14yrs+ also an accomplished professional solo artist. The rhythm section is Time: 10.00pm Running Time: 60minsl

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