Past Events

Elite Ladies Kickboxing Class every Tuesday

Ladies of Frome…
Kickboxing is a great way to burn MEGA calories whilst taking care of your physical and mental health and wellbeing… Elite Ladies Kickboxing classes are all about EVERYONE feeling good about themselves and having fun.

“Windrush the Journey: People and Place

A first visit to Somerset of a photo exhibition from Jim Grover, social-documentary photographer based in Clapham, South London. With connections to Somerset, Jim’s particular passion is using images to tell stories…especially to celebrate daily life, people, local communities and traditions… and to make the unseen seen.

Frome Community Choir Monday Evenings

The choir is run by Lucy Goldsack, who took over from Nickomo and Rasullah in the Summer of 2023.
All are welcome, no audition required, members do not need to be able to read music.
The atmosphere is fun and there is a real sense of community. We currently have about 20 members.

Frome Concerts Group Present: Ross Morris

Ross Morris is considered one of the most exciting of the new generation of British classical guitarists” (Western Morning News, 2021) and has been described as playing with “outstanding technique and subtle nuance” (Helly’s International Guitar Festival 2022). He brings a lovely programme of music by Albeniz, Villa Lobos, Brouwer and Barrios

Grief Circle: Grief Tending Frome

There are many gates to grief – personal tragedy, sorrow for our beautiful planet, grief for what might have been…come along to one or more of our sessions.

Frome Concerts Group Present: Baroque Alchemy

Baroque Alchemy is a unique fusion of old and new, bringing  together the simplicity of one of the earliest wind instruments, the recorder, with the 21st century technological wizardry of the electronic keyboard.

Grief Circle: Grief Tending Frome

Grief Tending Frome is a safe and confidential space where we can come together to share our grief, find and maintain feeling of emotional connection with life and one another, as well as opening ourselves to joy and happiness and much more…

Frome Concerts Group Present: Clare Hammond

We are thrilled that Clare Hammond is performing in our special concert. Acclaimed as a “pianist of extraordinary gifts” (Gramophone) and “immense power” (The Times), Clare Hammond is recognised for the virtuosity and authority of her performances and won the Royal Philharmonic Society’s Young Artist Award in 2016.

Is social media changing the way we interact?

When did you last have a good conversation?
Are you ‘zoomed out’ by endless virtual meetings?
Brian Snellgrove, will lead a discussion with audience participation on The Art of Conversation

Frome Concerts Group present: Siping Guo & Apolline Khou

Siping Guo a highly talented bassoonist from China is accompanied on the piano by Apolline Khou who is currently the Historical Keyboards fellow at the Royal College of Music.

Grief Circle: Grief Tending Frome

There are many gates to grief – personal tragedy, sorrow for our beautiful planet, grief for what might have been…come along to one or more of our sessions.

Lynn Barber: A Little Art Education, book talk

Lynn Barber is one of the best loved – and most notorious – journalists and interviewers in the country. She began her career at Penthouse, moving on to the Independent on Sunday, The Observer and The Telegraph. Join Lynn as she discusses the tales from her book A Little Art History.

Frome Sings The Legends for WHY

A stellar selection of Frome’s community of talented musicians will give their take on the world’s great songwriters. Enjoy Keren’s delicious mezze and dessert included in the ticket price. Proceeds help WHY support people affected or bereaved by cancer and lifethreatening conditions.

Helena Todd: Violin Recital – Light but Zesty

A lunchtime concert with Helena Todd on violin and Paul Eyre on piano. Soak up the heady sun-kissed vibes of Sarasate, de Falla and Boulanger, alongside Gershwin, musical hits and more, and let your soul be transported to warm waters, whatever the weather in Frome.

Two Guys and Three Drams: Whiskey and Blues Night

Join The Rhythm and Booze Project as they play some stomping blues music and serve you three superb whiskies. In a whirlwind show, get ready to learn how to sound clever about whisky, appreciate top-quality drams, and enjoy some raucous tunes. A 2022 and 2023 Edinburgh Fringe sell-out show.

Amy Webber

Amy is an award-winning comedian as heard on BBC Radio 4. Armed with her mini keyboard and an opera degree that’s never been useful, she’s on the hunt for a new job. You may pity her, you may love her but you will definitely want to employ her. Expect banging pop songs, live networking and a world class singing voice.

BassBeatz presents: Raving Rascals

Join this family-friendly rave where you can encourage your kids to get on the dance floor and listen to  some heavy beats in a safe environment! There will be a bouncy castle, tuck shop, and a fantastic Glitter Temple to help your little ravers look the part.

Cacao Ceremony and Sound Bath

Come and enjoy this special connection as Cacao Carrier and Intuitive Health Coach Ali Hutchinson and Sound Healer Jae Garaway lead you on a journey to find your heart and connect with yourself through sound and cacao

Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman

For over a quarter of a century, multi-award winning folk duo Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman have  developed a partnership that has proved personal, permanent and pivotal. From their early days in folk supergroup “Equation”, this multi award-winning musical couple continue to exude timeless class with their exquisite brand of traditional and contemporary acoustic music

Grief Circle

A safe and confidential space where we can come together to share our grief.
This can help us to find and maintain a feeling of emotional connection with life and one another, as well as opening ourselves to joy and happiness and much more….

BassBeatz presents: Raving Rascals

Here we go again! It’s Easter so it’s time for the whole family to get together for another Raving Rascals.
This time we are mixing it up with Jungle, Garage & DnB!
PLEASE NOTE -UNDER 12S MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT THROUGHOUT THE EVENT

Frome Kindness Festival: Exhibition HOPE НАДІЯ ARTISTS in DIALOGUE FROME & UKRAINE

By invitation of Frome Kindness Festival 2024 & NVB Architects, view the second major exhibition by Artists in Dialogue showcasing artwork from both Ukrainian artists displaced across Europe & local artists.

Frome International Climate Film Festival: Blue Carbon

The evening is being hosted by the Frome International Climate Film Festival, the first and only dedicated climate film festival in the world, which takes place every May. Both this film and The Climate Film Festival showcase the importance of kindness to each other and to nature, the environment, and the planet we coexist on.

Frome Concerts Group present: Creswick Quartet

A rare opportunity to hear musicians accustomed to the greatest concert halls of the world – play Purcell, Beethoven and Ravel – right here in Frome!

Frome Kindness Festival: Tea Dance for Young & Old

An afternoon of music, fun and connection that brings together Frome’s youngest and oldest, with live music from the BathTub Orchestra and from local musician Rosanna Schura.

Frome Concerts Group present: Trio Klein

A trio of award-winning and critically acclaimed musicians.
Achieving astounding early success, Trio Klein perform extensively in the UK and internationally, and frequently appear on BBC Radio 3. BACH TO THE EIGHTIES is a groundbreaking concert format which places a string trio by Schnittke alongside arrangements of John Adams and Duran Duran – and ends with Bach’s sublime Goldberg Variations

Martha Tilston

Get ready for a night of amazing live music and an unforgettable performance. Join us at this beautiful venue on Bath Street for an evening that will leave you wanting more. Martha Tilston is known for her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, and she never fails to captivate her audience. Don’t miss out on this incredible in-person event! Mark your calendars and get ready for a night of music that will touch your soul.

Frome Concerts Group present: Meraki

Meraki – ‘Doing something you love with all your creativity, soul and passion’. Enjoy arrangements of Brazilian and American songs and Schubert’s wonderful Arpeggione Sonata

Raving Rascals

Here we go again! It’s half term so it’s time for the whole family to get together for another Raving Rascals.

Frome Community Choir Rehersals

The Frome community choir will be rehearsing at Rook Lane Chapel on monday evenings during term time. Would you like to join us?

Frome Concerts Group presents: CarmenCo

Carmen tells her own story in words and music. Beautiful Spanish guitar pieces arranged from Bizet’s Carmen, Boccherini, de Falla, Albeniz and Tarrega

Frome Concerts Group present: Solis Trio

This prize winning, London based trio, formed at Wells Cathedral school, returns to Somerset with a wonderfully varied programme including works fromPergolesi to Plog.

The Frome Christmas Show

A sparkling dazzling slay ride of a cabaret show starring the crème de la crème of the UK’s cabaret, circus, comedy, drag & burlesque scene.

BassBeatz; Raving Rascals

Ho, ho, ho! It’s getting near to that time once again… Christmas! We have something for all the family from the little ones to the big ones and also the adults, it’s time to celebrate and have a fantastic party together.

Cacao Ceremony & Sound Bath

Join us as we celebrate the approach of winter and the Full Moon in Gemini which birthed this week. We meet at the beautiful Rook Lane Chapel in Frome, Somerset for a Cacao Ceremony & Sound Bath on Saturday 2 December, 2 – 4pm. Come and enjoy this special connection as Cacao Carrier and Intuitive Health Coach Ali Hutchinson and Sound Healer Jae Garaway lead you on a journey to find your heart and connect with yourself through sound and cacao.

Frome Concerts Group: Kleio String Quartet

The Kleio String Quartet’s special, full-length concert rounds off the series.

Frome Concerts Group: Double Cup

Two young Ukrainian musicians, Double Cup, present the third concert of works for guitar and flute.

Frome Concerts Group: Levanto Ensemble

The programme for the Levanto Ensemble’s concert includes music spanning four centuries from Mozart to works by living composers.

Sustainable Fashion Week: The Nettle Dress

Screening of Dylan Howitt’s documentary The Nettle Dress followed by Q&A

Frome Concerts Group: Saraband String Quartet

Saraband Early Music Ensemble specialise in music that would have been heard in the grand houses, sitting rooms, coffee houses, taverns and streets of the 17th and 18th centuries performing in venues that compliment the music architecturally as well as giving our audience a sense of informality and intimacy.

Cacao Ceremony and Gong Bath

Join us as we celebrate Autumn Equinox here in Frome, Somerset at our Cacao Ceremony & Sound Bath. Come and enjoy this special connection as Cacao Carrier and Intuitive Health Coach Ali Hutchinson and Sound Healer Jae Garaway lead you on a journey to find your heart and connect with yourself through sound and cacao.

Cacao Ceremony

Ceremonial Cacao is chocolate in its rawest, purest form, a ceremonial drink. Known as Mama Cacao for her heart opening warmth, drinking her is like being wrapped in a warm hug.

Ring Out – A Miscellany of Bells

A resounding finale to the Ring Out Project, including hand bell ringing and a talk by a local bell expert. there will also be a performance of an innovative new composition by Frome based composer Helen Ottaway, combining the sounds of conventional musical instruments with local church bells.

Frome Sings The Legends

The best of Frome’s musicians, interpreting the great songwriters, raisung money for a legendary charity. A wonderful evening of music and food raising money and awareness for WHY

Photo|Frome: Decolonising Environments

‘Decolonising Environments’ expands this concept, to encourage a wider examination of social, environmental, and cultural issues through the subjectivity of the photographer’s individual gaze.

PHOTO|FROME – CAMERALESS WORKSHOP – LUMEN AND PHYTOGRAM PRINT (FAMILY EDITION)

Anjalika Baier will demonstrate a process using expired darkroom paper, plant materials, etc, to enable participants to create unique sun prints. All materials are provided, however bringing along plant materials and/or small objects you like to use for the print is encouraged.

PHOTO|FROME Portfolio Reviews

These are for anyone who would like a professional, third-party and objective view of their work. If you want to develop your visual story-telling ability, commercial approach, consider going for further qualifications, create a book or exhibition, or just want to get better, then these reviews are for you.

PHOTO|FROME – CAMERALESS WORKSHOP – LUMEN & PHYTOGRAM PRINT (ADULT EDITION)

Anjalika Baker will demonstrate a process using expired darkroom paper, plant materials, etc, to enable participants to create unique sun prints. All materials are provided, however bringing along plant materials and/or small objects you like to use for the print is encouraged. Suitable for adults of all ages.

Two Thousand Days: presented by DramaKarma

On September 1 1939, two days before the outbreak of war, an entire school was evacuated to Frome from the East End of London as part of Operation Pied Piper. They stayed in Somerset for two thousand days. While at first the war is only a distant backdrop, it increasingly intrudes into the lives of the young evacuees and presents them with huge personal challenges, each of them a rite of passage.

CRUK Charity Ball hosted by Tony Hodges

An evening of talks, entertainment and dancing with food by Ebbie’s Kitchen, Bar and Raffle with a celebrity guest speaker to be announced. Tony is raising money for CRUK by hosting this ball as well as hiking across Snowdonia this year, followed by a 1000 mile treck in Iceland. He will tell of his inspirational fight with cancer since he was 19

Caco Ceremony and Meditation: with Ali Hutchinson

Come and enjoy this special connection with Ali Hutchinson, Cacao Carrier and Intuitive Health Coach as she guides us through an intuitive journey with ceremonial grade cacao for a heart opening ceremony that celebrates the full moon. The moon represents the spiritual and emotional as well as the physical body and full moons mark the ending of cycles and the releasing of big emotions.

Local Cohen: AM Promotions

A delightful evening of music by Leonard Cohen, performed by local musicians in our stunning venue. Stash Huchrak – Bass, Jay Simms – Guitar, Mark Jones – Keyboards, Tim Whatts – Drums 

Frome Concerts Group present: Pocket Sinfonia

Pocket Sinfonia is going to play symphonies by Haydn and Mozart! Hard to believe that a piano, violin, flute and cello can do this but these four highly skilled musicians somehow manage to create the sound of a whole orchestra while maintaining the intimacy of a chamber ensemble. Hearing is believing – don’t miss it!

Coffee Concert: Alexandra Whittingham Guitar

Over the last four years, guitarist Alexandra Whittingham has reached listeners worldwide, not only through concerts and competition successes but above all online, where her video performances of classical guitar repertoire have gained over 35 million YouTube views. Now she comes to Frome with a wonderful recital to include works by Francisco Tarrega, Heitor Villa Lobos, Ralph Towner and many more.

Coffee Concert: Elua Percussion Duo

Elua Percussion are passionate about showcasing the art of percussion music and increasing its reach. This exciting young duo offer a very varied programme ranging from original percussion pieces by composers such as Gene Koshinski and Nebosja Jovan Zivkovic to arrangements of works by many other composers including the duo themselves.

The Last Matron:

A play about Keyford Asylum based on real events and discovered diaries. Written by Kevin Ross. In association with Dramakarma and Keyford History Group. With a grand old building facing demolition the Last Matron of Keyford watches as a parade of spectres appear before her. The building cannot be saved but it isn’t too late to resurrect the memory of those who passed through its doors.

Coffee Concert: Bones Apart Trombone Quartet

This highly acclaimed trombone quartet has performed its unique and diverse repertoire to audiences worldwide and brings a wealth of performing experience at the highest level. Their programme, Wonder Women – Muses, Queens and Warriors – includes music from composers as diverse as Hildegard von Bingen, Nadia Boulanger and Nina Simone.

Group Soundscape, A Gong Bath with Helen Stillwell

Do come along, to this hour of therapeutic sounds of the gongs and sound tools. Reset, rebalance, relax and let go. Please bring your yoga mat or like with a blanket and pillow for your comfort. Further information on soulhorizons.co.uk/events. 

Teatime Concert: Eblana String Trio

The Eblana String Trio consistently wins praise from audiences and critics alike for the depth and insight of their performances.
“…the late, mercurial, if elliptical, String Trio, a sort of 12-tone divertimento, was brilliantly undertaken by the Eblana String Trio.”

SUNDAY TIMES

Teatime Concert: Mikekeiz Zucchi Duo

This prize winning duo’s repertoire spans everything from reimagined traditional works to modern compositions and improvisation, all vividly rendered by the unique combination of saxophone and accordion. Expect music by Bach to Gershwin,  Praetorius to Piazzola!

Teatime Concert: Darach Ensemble

Bass clarinet, oboe and cor-anglais is a combination you may not have encountered before but these performers certainly employ the timbres of their instruments to conjure a rich, compelling sound world. The programme includes works by Karg-Elert, Bach and Beethoven.

Teatime Concert: Ensemble Unmeasured

These leading performers from Britain’s early music scene will perform classic Renaissance and Early Baroque gems for Voice, Recorder and Lute, by composers such as Castello, Dowland, Monteverdi and Corelli. Their programme is called “Timeless Treasures”.

Three Choirs Big Sing

Jackdaws Songbirds (Frome), Sounding it Out (Trowbridge), and Shreen Harmony (Mere) are joining forces for an informal evening of acapella singing. Expect rousing and joyful informal performances from 10 to 100+ singers, led by local choir leader Caroline Radcliffe, including songs from around the world and through the ages. A last hurrah before the summer holidays!

Photo Frome Exhibition

We are looking forward to being one of the many venues hosting the Photo Frome Exhibition this year. The first of its kind in Somerset, and set to be an exciting and ground breaking event. The event will include a wide selection of photographers and styles, across multiple gallery’s and venues, with workshops and also a couple of evening talks by exhibiting photographers, as well as a stunning selection of their work. 

Photo|Frome – Joss Barrett & Martin Wade ‘Photography Mean Anything?’ Talk

In ‘Does Photography Still Mean Anything?’, Joss and Martin will debate the meaning of photography, in an interactive discussion, moderated by Mick Yates. Audience participation is not only welcome but needed! The hope is that as a group, and maybe more importantly, as individuals, we ask ourselves whether, in a world so awash with images taken by so-called professionals and amateurs alike, covering every aspect of life, it’s all become rather meaningless.

“STOMPIN” FSB Big Band

A live music concert presented by the F.S.B. Big Band, giving two hours of swinging jazz and show tunes from the 1920s to the present day, made famous originally by bands such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Glen Miller and others. The band has the traditional line up of Five Saxes. Four Trumpets, Four Trombones, Piano, Bass and drums, and vocals by Alec James.

Elizabeth Rowe: The Poet of Frome

A Frome Society for Local Study event to coincide with the ‘Celebrated Women of Frome’ exhibition at Frome Museum. Although famous in her day throughout most of the known world, Elizabeth Rowe has sadly been neglected for the greater part of the time since her death in 1737. A re-evaluation of her works and their influence, however, has been recently taking place. Dr Carole Sargent, from Georgetown University, Washington DC, will talk about why Elizabeth Rowe still matters today and how Frome can best honour her.

Frome Festival: JAVAJAM Trio

We will be playing a sublime mixture of Jazz, Bossa Nova, and Vintage Pop with our own twist. Expect anything from American songbook classics and Antonio Carlos Jobim to The Stranglers and The Beatles. Vocals: Sarah-Jane Hassell, Keyboards: Roger Lewin, Tenor Saxophone/Flute: Phil Brown.

Handlebards Present Twelfth Night

The hugely popular Shakespearean troupe are back with another bicycle-powered tour to outdoor venues and open-air theatres across the UK this summer. From Bude to Bolton, Inverness to the Isle of Wight, The HandleBards are to reprise their hit production of Shakespeare’s classic comedy Twelfth Night with drunkenness, frivolity and cross-dressing aplenty.

PhotoFrome Talk by John Angerson – NASA STS_72

Photographer John Angerson was granted unprecedented access to the Kennedy Space Center, Florida
and the Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, USA, to document the final months of a yearlong intensive training programme preparing for the NASA (STS-72) mission in January 1996. After revisiting the original negatives during lockdown without the pressures of the original deadline, he discovered photographs that had been previously overlooked.

Bath Opera present: Tosca

Rook Lane are pleased to see the return to our stage of Bath Opera, who will be presenting Giacomo Puccini’s dramatic opera “Tosca” featuring the vocal talents of Ghiulnara Raileanu. Musical Director Peter Blackwood, Stage Director Jane Clark.

Kris Drever & Rachel Baimen Concert

On the heels of their respective new solo albums, Scottish folk star Kris Drever (LAU), and Nashville based Americana artist Rachel Baiman present a joint tour of the UK and Scotland in Spring 2022, featuring solo sets from each as well as unique collaborations drawing on their respective original material.

Healing with the Voice Meditation Circle with Anne Bourne

Sound Meditation uses the power of your voice to release, restore and revitalise. Journey deep within through sound and silence. This is a Five week course every Tuesday evening (except the10th May which will be held on the Wednesday) starting 26th April.

Sticky Toffee Jazz: Frome Birth Talk & Frome Festival Fundraiser

Fundraising event for the Frome Festival and Frome Birth Talk taking place in the stunning Rook Lane Chapel in
the centre of Frome. All welcome!
Cream tea included in the price of the ticket.

Sunday Afternoon Concert: Alexandra Dariescu

With her effortless musicality, captivating stage presence and generosity of spirit, Alexandra Dariescu has won the hearts of audiences and critics in prestigious venues all over the world. She certainly dazzled at her previous performances at Rook Lane Chapel. This time she returns with a full length concert of impressionist inspired French music.

Sunday Afternoon Concert: Kammerphilharmonie Europa SOLD OUT

We present the long awaited re-scheduled performance by Kammerphilharmonie Europa, previously purchased tickets for this concert are still valid for this performance. SOLD OUT

Sunday Morning Concert: Passercaglia

Passacaglia Trio’s new programme features music for flute, viola da gamba and harpsichord composed for Frederick the Great. ‘To Touch the Heart’ includes CPE Bach’s music and works by three talented women composers of the court.

Sunday Morning Concert: Lotte Betts Dean and Dimitris Soukaras

Described as singing ‘with warmth, joy and an open heart’ Lotte returns with guitarist Dmitris Soukaras. ‘Travels with a Guitar’ leads us from the haunting tunes of John Dowland via guitar music from Greece to the vibrant rhythms of Manuel de Falla.

Sunday Morning Concert: Laefer Quartet

In 2017 the Laefer Saxaphone Quartet delighted our audience. This time expect an exciting programme with transcriptions of Ferenc Farkas and Stravinsky and original works for saxophone quartet by Guillermo Lago and Joel Love.

Tea Concert: Echea Quartet

With numerous prizes already to their name, the Echea Quartet are most definitely ‘one to watch’! Currently Chamber Music Fellows at the Royal College of Music, this dazzling young quartet present a gorgeous programme of Schubert, Kurtag and Haydn – sit back and enjoy these rising stars!

Lantern Parade and Christmas Light switch on.

Frome’s town centre will once again be transformed into a magical scene with hundreds of lanterns descending down Bath Street to the Market Place and the lights of the Christmas tree being illuminated. The parade will start from Rook Lane Chapel, so come along and bring your own cup/insulated mug and buy a mulled cider/apple juice, plus maybe with a shot of spiced rum, to keep you warm on your way down into town.

Tea Concert: Sherry Shen & Agnese Contadini

As highly sought-after orchestral and chamber musicians, Sherry Shen and Agnese Contadini come together with a wonderfully appealing programme. From Saint-Saen’s serene Swan to the evocative strains of Piazzolla’s Histoire du Tango, this enchanting duo will serve up delightful tea-time treats!

Tea Concert: A4 Brass Quartet

Frome Concert Group and Rook Lane are pleased to welcome back A4 Brass Quartet, for what we feel sure will be another exciting kaleidoscope of music, “to take the listener on a journey in which they are never quite certain what lies around the corner”

Tea Concert: Dramma Per Musica

Music from a golden age of English composition! Entitled Shakespeare Restored the programme includes settings by Shakespeare’s contemporaries as well as later works connected to restoration productions. Expect a glorious combination of Comedy, History and Tragedy from this exciting young ensemble to include music by Purcell, Locke and Morley.

The Frome Festival-20th Anniversary Exhibition.

An Exhibition featuring artwork and information on events held during the 20 years of The Frome Festival. With a nostalgic look at some of the high lights over the years.

Yoga Teacher Ate My Pet!: Rose Wadham

Join stand up comedian and impressionist Rose Wadham plus the coterie of characters who live in her head as she addresses the problem of vegan Vikings, frustrated yoga teachers, bad mothers, village life, foreplay, pointless beauty rituals, teenage dogs, schadenfreude, art galleries, feet, and her irrational fear of cleaning ladies. 

John Hegley Presents “Peace, Love and Potatoes”

John Hegley is one of the UKs foremost performance poets. A regular for BBC radio and a headliner in festivals around the country including Edinburgh, he has produced ten books of verse and prose, two CDs and one mug. His poems manage to take the minutiae of modern life like dogs, potatoes and handkerchiefs spinning them into a philosophical framework.

Spoils of War: Talk by Christopher Joll

An illustrated talk by Christopher Joll, based on his recently published book. Christopher is director of many national military events and also a military historian.

The Bob Morris Lecture: ‘The First Seven Years’ presented by Martin Bax

Martin Bax will give the first Bob Morris Memorial Lecture. An illustrated talk about the early years of the Frome Festival, of which he is the Founder and President.

Cosy Winter Weddings at Rook Lane £450 offer.

If you are still wishing to go ahead with your wedding but in a more intimate way due to restrictions, and are looking for beautiful venue, Rook Lane is the perfect choice. We are offering a special lower price for the next six months.

2020 Vision

A multi media exhibition of psychedelic art not to be missed.

CANCELLED Architecture Club: A History of Building Britain with Andrew Ziminski

A stonemason’s story of the building of Britain: part archaeological history, part deeply personal insight into an ancient craft.

Frome Ukulele Festival: EVENT POSTPONED

FESTIVAL POSTPONED

Following the latest advice from the government and in consultation with our venues in Frome we have, today, taken the difficult decision to postpone the 2020 Frome Ukulele Festival. As your can imagine, our venues have a large number of events to reschedule and the immediate future is uncertain so we have chosen to reschedule it to 13th March 2021. Tickets for the 2020 Festival will be remain valid for the new date, however, if you prefer a refund please contact the Cheese & Grain on boxoffice@cheeseandgrain.com or call 01373 455420.

We have asked our fabulous acts, Feral Beryl, The Motherpluckers and ukulele maestro, Danilo Vignola to join us next year and hope you will too. We are obviously bitterly disappointed but we have no choice.

If you have any questions or comments please contact us on info@fromeukulelefestival.org.

Sending you ukulele love in these uncertain times x

Coffee Concerts: Rosalind Ventris and Ariana Kashefi

We are looking forward to welcoming Rosalind Ventris (viola) and Ariana Kashefi (cello) in what promises to be an gorgeous and exciting performance – we’re so grateful they could step-in at such short notice! Whilst the cello often graces the concert platform, it’s more of a rarity to hear the viola, and Rosalind’s reputation promises much to enjoy. They will perform as both soloists and a duo with repertoire by Beethoven, Rebecca Clarke, Lutoslawski and of course Bach.

Architecture Club: Architecture is not Frozen Music: Cany Ash Sakular

Join architect Cany Ash Sakula to find out how architects can learn from gaming to animate the future world.

Coffee Concerts: A4 Brass Quartet

Four musicians with impressive solo careers as well as extensive experience in prestigious orchestras and brass bands, A4 will perform high octane works from Bach to Bernstein.

Architecture Club: Form Follows Life-cycle with Matthew Barnett Howland & Dido Milne

“If Cork House were a book, it would be a manifesto or polemical tract that aimed to radically reframe the processes of architecture and construction through the prism of whole life sustainability, from design to demolition.”

Catherine Slessor, The Observer

Coffee Concerts:The Thorne Trio

Our first Coffee Concert of 2020 is by The Thorne Trio, an established ensemble of clarinet, oboe and bassoon. The program will include works by Mozart, Handel and Milhaud.

Knight & Spiers ~ A Concert of Seasonal Music from the English Tradition…and Beyond

“Knight’s playing is a revelation. A world away from folky fiddling, it’s fully informed by the classical style, all long sweeping bow strokes and eloquent legato. Yet he never loses the essential folk heart of the music, tracing a graceful line of his own making”
Review of Cambridge Folk Festival’s ‘City Roots’
“John’s elegant, rhythmic and virtuoso playing and easy-going banter is a quiet triumph!”
Robin Denselow, The Guardian

“Light up a Life” Dorothy House service of light

Held in the weeks running up to Christmas, the services take place in venues across the area served by the Hospice. The services all start at 6pm, last around 45 minutes and include readings, carols and the opportunity to light a candle in memory of a loved one. The services are open to everyone.

Hunting Raven presents the nation’s favourite poet Pam Ayres: Up In The Attic

Pam Ayres has been making the nation laugh for over 40 years. She will be performing poems from her new book Up In The Attic, published in September 2019, along with classic poems and stories from her long career. Recent TV appearances include Springwatch, Celebrity Mastermind, and Celebrity Antiques Road Trip. Recent Radio includes Series 6 of Ayres On The Air, Just A Minute, I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue, and Pam’s second appearance on Desert Island Discs.

Architecture Club: Post-War Churches-Concrete and Liturgy

Join architectural historian Elain Harwood for a fascinating look at twentieth century churches.

Frome Festive Art Fair

A one day art fair, showcasing a variety of work by brilliant local artists, including printmaking, painting, ceramics, sculpture, illustration and jewellery. The event will take place at two of Frome’s most beautiful arts venues, Rook Lane Chapel and the Silk Mill. There will be chances to get creative with mini festive workshops, from printing to bauble decoration, all led by local artists. Mulled wine and mince pies will be available to help get visitors in the festive spirit, as well as tea, coffee and lots of cake!

Frome Rotary Club: Young Photographer Competition.

On view are this years entries for Frome Rotary Club’s annual young photographer competition. This is stage one of a national competition, for three age groups 7-11, 11-13,and 14-17. This years theme is “Through My Eyes”. There will be some stunning work on show.

Tea Time Concert: Solovey Ensemble

Returning to Frome in trio format – with the addition of the wonderful violist Emma Purslow – we’re delighted to welcome Solovey Ensemble, one of Britain’s foremost harp, viola and flute trios. Expect sumptuous repertoire full of expansive melodies and…

Tea Time Concerts: Eleanor Corr & Emil Duncumb

Enjoying successful and varied freelance careers, Eleanor Corr and Emil Duncumb – a regular partnership – join us with Grieg’s joyful Sonata no. 2 in G major as well as gorgeous, emotionally-charged works by Lutoslawski and Weber showcasing the rapport…

Architecture, Music, Politics from Concert Hall to Town Hall: Colin Cobb

What is the civic impact of a major project on a city or town?
Should architects involve themselves in the political and civic life of where they live and work?
Join architect and former town councilor Colin Cobb for an exploration of the way that civic and public projects come about and how architects engage themselves with that process.

FSB Concert

This promises to be lively and entertaining evening at Rook Lane Chapel. Come along early to get your tickets on the door and have a drink at the bar before the performance. But keep an eye on FSB Facebook page for more info and possible online ticket sales.

Writing Our Way From Loneliness to Connection.

Kerryn Alt is hosting this short course over four weeks of writing for wellbeing workshops. You will use creative writing exercises in a small group to explore our experiences of loneliness and connection. These workshops are facilitated by trained practitioners with a focus on the writing process. Some mindfulness practices are included, as well as tea, coffee and cake, of course.

Tea Time Concert: Fair Oriana

Beautifully matched in their silvery, clear sound, the sopranos Angela Hicks and Penelope Appleyard will be joined by Sam Brown (lute) and Harry Buckoke (viol) in a glorious programme entitled ‘The Trials & Triumphs of Elizabeth I’ featuring repertoire by John…

Designs for Life: Craig White of White Design

The LILAC housing scheme in Leeds is a co-housing community of 20 eco-build households. The homes and land are managed by residents through a Mutual Home Ownership Society, a pioneering financial model that ensures permanent affordability.
Join Architect Craig White for an exploration into alternative affordable housing.

Tea Time Concerts: Ji Liu

“Ji Liu has a technique to match any virtuoso, however, it is his sensitive and unpretentious musicality that shines forth.”
The Pianist Magazine.

WHY family fun day

a fun filled fabulous Frome event. enjoy stalls, face painting, bouncy castle, food and drink. as well as the fabulous Rocktopus.

Casting the World: The Story of J.W.Singer & Sons, Frome

We very much look forward to hosting this wonderful Exhibition together with Frome Museum, which is brought to you by Rook Lane Arts Trust. The Exhibition will also include Talks and Walks, as well as demonstrations of the processes used in casting. There is something for everyone.

‘Amy & Alice, Two Sculptors, Two Stories’ – Sue Bucklow & Phylida Shaw

Writer, Phyllida Shaw will share her research into the work of Alice Meredith Williams, which includes the Scottish National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle and Casting The World Curator, Sue Bucklow, will shed some light on the little acknowledged life and work of Amy Singer , daughter of John Webb Singer, who shared a studio with Camille Claudel and was mentored by Rodin.

Statues Slavery and Empire by Dr Madge Dresser

In collaboration with Casting the World project, Frome Society for Local Study welcomes Dr Madge Dresser, a visiting research fellow UWE and retired Associate Professor of Social and Cultural British History, University of Bristol. an illustrated talk revisiting our monumental heritage, which will include a focus on work produced in Frome by J W Singer and Sons. Statuary which is found in many parts of a now changed world.

Architecture Club: New Boundaries with Chris Romer-Lee, Studio Octopi

A talk by Chris Romer Lee on his practice’s collaborate work with artists and water. Linking with the Rook Lane Exhibition ” Casting The World, The story of JW Singer & Sons’ via his relative Hamo Thornycroft. Thornycroft not only had multiple sculptures cast by the Singer Foundry in Frome, but also came from a family of world famous naval engineers.

The Handlebards present The Tempest

The world’s first cycling theatre company, The HandleBards, pedal from venue to venue with all the set, props and costume necessary to perform environmentally sustainable Shakespeare across the globe.

Join their all-female troupe at Rook Lane for a bicycle-powered production of Shakespeare’s ’The Tempest’ like none other. In usual HandleBards style, expect riotous amounts of energy, a fair old whack of chaos, and a great deal of laughter.

Character Comedian Rose Wadham presents…Life Fright

Fashionably menopausal character comedian Rose Wadham takes a hilarious look at the absurdities of regret – making darkly comic light of the terrible life choices made by 5 extraordinary women.

WHY acoustic: SORRY CANCELLED

Join us for two acoustic sets, including singer-songwriter Phil Cooper, recently featured on BBC Radio 6 BBC Music Introducing show with Tom Robinson.
Sara Vian will be performing a 30-40min set at the exquisite Rook Lane

We’re also delighted to announce that local legend and the mind behind Glastonbury Festival, Michael Eavis, will be giving a talk and taking questions at WHYacoustic.
WHY receives no central government funding so relies on community fundraising and the generosity of individuals and grant-making trusts to survive.

Architecture Club: Bio-diverse Communities Sarah Jones-Morris

Join landscape architect and urban designer, Sarah Jones-Morris for an exploration of our relationship with the natural world and find how putting bio-diversity at the heart of our urban environments is essential for our future survival. Sarah Jones-Morris is the director of Landsmith Associates based in Bristol. 

Kakatsitsi Master Drummers

Steve Peake, Director of Indigenous People and artistic director of the coming tour, confirmed he was delighted to be bringing the show to Frome. “I was brought up in Taunton,” he said “so the opportunity to launch what promises to be our best tours ever is an amazing one.” Tanya Sheriff, owner of Drum It Up Somerset, said “It’s a real privilege for us to welcome such amazing and accomplished traditional musicians to Frome. I am very excited to see this inspiring fusion project and to see some of Africa’s leading drummers playing in my home town. Frome Town Council have supported this cultural event by a grant of £300 through the Majors Grant, of which we are very grateful for”

Jonathan Kay: The Nomadic Academy of Fools

Fool! Performance by Jonathan Kay. Jonathan Kay – FOOL! What happens at a Jonathan Kay show? The unexpected..in the
most magical and delightful way! Jonathan Kay brings an evening of improvisation, fooling and spectacular performance. A show absolutely like no other you will ever see. Only a Fool could conjure up so rich and absurd a world from thin air. Jonathan can carry off just about anything in the moment with the audience of the moment.

Architecture Club: Farm to Fork with Fergus Fielden

Fergus will present a range of projects from the practice’s own self-build studio on a city farm next to Westminster Bridge through to Charlie Bigham’s factory, a new 6000m2 kitchen in a quarry near Wells and winner of the RIBA 2018 Building of the year south west. Along the way he will talk about the practices cultural work including The Weston, a new gallery embedded into the hillside on the eastern boundary of the Yorkshire Sculpture Park and how craft, materials and a deep reading of sense of place shape their work.

Frome Arts Fair

40 incredible artists, three stunning venues, one weekend. Frome Art Fair gives artists a platform to showcase their work to a new, engaged audience, and offers visitors the chance to meet a wide range of artists and purchase their original work.

Ben Ottewell in Concert

With an avid following from the days in his former band Gomez, singer/songwriter Ben is returning to Frome to share more of his solo material plus a few songs from the Gomez back catalogue. He will be coming back to Frome following last year’s well-received and sell-out show here and the tour with his bandmates celebrating the 20th anniversary of their Mercury Prize winning album Bring it On.

Architecture Club: In search of Rural Architecture with Graham Bizley

Graham Bizley is an architect and writer based in rural Somerset. He established Prewett Bizley Architects with Robert Prewett in 2005 and moved out of London in 2011 to set up a Somerset office.

Frome Ukulele Festival

We have a selection of workshops, play along sessions, open mic and battle of the bands for you to enjoy. You won’t be able to do everything – but it will be fun trying. Details will be printed nearer the day but activities are likely to be between 2 pm and 6 pm with the concert between 6.30 and 10 pm. Reception will open at 12 noon and workshops can be booked on the day only.

Coffee Concerts: Aquinas Piano Trio

AQUINAS PIANO TRIO has established itself as one of Britain’s most sought-after chamber groups, and it’s not hard to see why! Their thoughtful programmes combine flawless playing, poise, fabulous ensemble and pure joy. We’re delighted to welcome them back to Frome in what promises to be another splendid performance
Haydn Piano Trio in E major XV:28 Mendelssohn Piano Trio No.1 in D minor opus 49 and after the interval Schumann Piano Trio No.2 in F major opus 80

Architecture Club: : Two Wheel Revolution

Cities and Towns across the world are struggling with the effects of car ownership: dangerous pollution levels, land-hungry parking requirements and traffic gridlock. How could we approach transport in a different way that would reduce all of these problems and make us fitter and healthier at the same time

Coffee Concerts: Rachel Podger

Proving her “intoxicating combination of power and grace” (Toronto Star), internationally renowned baroque violinist Rachel Podger has established herself as a leading interpreter of the music of the Baroque and Classical periods.

Coffee Concerts: Andrey Lebedev

I am delighted to return to the wonderful Rook Lane Chapel in Frome. I absolutely love it there. This will be a solo program including music by Villa-Lobos and J S Bach, as well as the lesser known Hector Ayala and Leo Brouwer.

Architecture Club: Lessons from the Campsite

Join architect Tom Russell to hear how housing design can learn from the freedoms of the campsite.

Coffee Concerts: Fontanella Quintet

Set aside memories of school recorders – this is like nothing you’ve heard before!  Featuring five of the UK’s leading specialist professional artists, Fontanella entertains audiences of all ages in a programme designed to bring the history of this remarkable instrument to life.  Let Fontanella blow away those Winter blues with their captivating performance

The Comedy Eclectic

Come along for the first and unique comedy evening brought to Frome by Pop-up Comedy, and hosted by Jarred Christmas and
world-champion beatboxer Hobbit. It promises to be something for everyone with a mix of sketches, stand-up, improv and music.

The Complete Cat – Exhibition

International Cat Care, which has partnered with SOFA to organise the exhibition, is one of the world’s most respected feline charities and works for owned and unowned cats globally. It is also the charity’s 60th anniversary and the SOFA artists have generously committed 25% of the takings to the charity

Architecture Club – Shackleton’s Hut and other stories with Charley Brentnall

Charley has led some of the UK’s most important oak-frame conservation projects, including the restoration of the ceiling at
Windsor Castle and the restoration of Shackleton and Scott’s huts in Antarctica.

Architecture Club – Child Friendly City

Join Architect Dinah Bornat to discover how making cities child-friendly improves life for all citizens

Tea Time Concerts – ENDYMION

“THE BRILLIANT ENDYMION” (Sunday Times) exists to deliver world class performances of chamber music throughout London, the UK and abroad.

Tea Time Concerts – ARCUS QUARTET

The Arcus Quartet is a dynamic string quartet from the Royal College of Music, London. Together they have performed in concert halls across the United Kingdom.

Sinnober Concert

Sinnober Album launch.

A two piece band, this album is made up of self penned folk-rock music with west coast harmonies, and

skeletal grooves. Echoes of Laurel Canyon and British folk-rock of the early 70’s they are supported by Violette.

Tea Time Concerts – KALLO-FRIZZELL DUO

Introducing the promising young counter-tenor Erik Kallo accompanied by Daniel Frizzel, lute

Architecture Club – Designs for a Life of Stuff

Join Architect and academic Elena Marco to explore how our growing appetite for ‘stuff’ influences the design of housing.

JOHN LAW QUARTET PLAYS THELONIOUS MONK

John Law, piano; Sam Crockatt, saxophones; Riaan Vosloo, bass; Dave Smith, drums. A quartet of four powerful individual voices, the band will be exploring the music and legacy of the pianist and composer who’s been called The Genius […]

Praying for the Rain

One of the most dynamic and compelling bands performing today, whose unique style combines contemporary acoustic music, with beautifully crafted harmonies, creating a truly uplifting and engaging experience.

Exhibition ‘Creativity at Frome College’

Rook Lane Chapel is happy to welcome back the talented young people from Frome College to showcase their work during the Frome Festival.

THE BUSQUITOS WITH SPECIAL GUEST PEE WEE ELLIS

Hailing from Holland, The Busquitos were an outstanding hit in last year’s Festival. Their funny, engaging and entertaining show presents brilliantly played jazz standards by Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker and Django Reinhardt amongst others. The Busquitos are favourites […]

SACRE: TWO PIANO CONCERT WITH JOHN LAW AND DAVID GORDON

Two of the UK’s foremost pianist/composers, combine to present their personal take on the classic masterpiece: The Rite of Spring (Le Sacre du Printemps).Since its premiere in 1913 – a concert in Paris which sparked a riot – […]

TELL ME THE TRUTH ABOUT LOVE: ART, SONG & OPERA EVENING

An evening of songs and duets which wanders playfully around the theme of love. With a programme spanning almost five centuries, and which includes the baroque, the operatic, art song and cabaret repertoire, there will be music to […]

The Meddling of Mrs Harris

What connects a missionary’s wife, a famous American author, and a European King responsible for atrocities in the Belgian Congo?

Frome Swing Band – Big Band

We look forward to discovering the jazzy musical creature created by our 17-piece big band and our feature vocalists.

THE TROJAN WAR – MYTH & HISTORY

Professor Michael Wood, one of UK’s best loved historians and broadcasters, will take us on a fascinating journey examining the Trojan War. A book signing session will follow the lecture.

Architecture Club presents…12 Halls with Niall McLaughlin

Award-winning Architect Niall McLaughlin will speak on gathering places within a history of the British and Irish landscape.

Find Your Fool – Jonathan Kay Five Day Workshop

In this five day workshop, Jonathan will be entering into some of seven levels of the structure of Fooling.

Twelfth Night

The world’s first cycling theatre company, The HandleBards, pedal from

venue to venue with all the set, props and costume necessary to perform

environmentally sustainable Shakespeare across the globe.

Back to the Stone Age for a Low Carbon Future

Engineer Steve Webb talks to the Architecture Club about the versatility of stone as a low carbon material.

The Howken Field by Nick Hennessey

Storytelling with singer, songwriter and storyteller Nick. A dynamic and passionate performer.

Planning for the public good, with Pooja Agrawal and Finn Williams

Who, today, is planning for the public good? Join Pooja Agrawal and Finn Williams, Public Practice’s co-founders, to hear how they are reinventing the role of the public planner.

VIDA GUITAR QUARTET

Resceduled from March 18th; Vida Guitar Quartet brings together four of the UK’s most exceptional guitarists for a spectacular afternoon of music-making!

Mr Rook’s Presents: The Music of Poldark

Mike O’Connor and Barbara Griggs will be exploring the traditional music used in the television series Poldark, which seemed appropriate to us given they film a few of the scenes in our very own Gentle Street.

St Laurence On Tour for People Against Poverty

Join us at Rook Lane for a showcase of some of the talent usually seen at the St Laurence spring concert, organised to help fundraise for People against Poverty.

Silence Part I by Rachel Rose Reid

Rachel Rose Reid is a UK-based storyteller who has performed around the globe and for BBC Radio 3, the Crick Crack Club, & Beyond the Border.

Citizen Jane: Battle for the City

Join Architecture Club for a screening of this acclaimed documentary.

Enid and Geraint by Cath Little

An enchanting retelling of an old British Wonder Tale from the court of Arthur and Gwenhwyfar at Caerleon.

An Evening of Folk for Lisa’s Army

Join local artists Cara Dillon, Rivers of England and Jemima Farey for an evening of folk music to raise money for local mum Lisa Wells.

Order in the Landscape: Rediscovering Preben Jakobsen

Join Landscape Architect, landscape historian and horticulturist, Karen Fitzsimon to find out more about one of landscape’s most overlooked talents.

Pelleas Ensemble

Frome Concerts Group Present…Pelleas Ensemble One hour concert with coffee included Come and hear Corelli, Tchikovsky and Debussy from the yound dynamic harp, flute and viola trio.    

The Hero Light by Dominic Kelly

Mr Rook’s Speakeasy Presents… The Hero Light by Dominic Kelly A wild epic from Irish mythology. The hero light retells the extraordinary stories od the Ulster Cycle – The Irish Iliad – an epic of interveaving stories centered […]

Valentines at The Chapel

Indulge in an evening of Live Music, delicious canapes and champagne. Local Singer and Musicians will be joining us at the Chapel with thanks to The Cornerhouse Frome Jazz Club influence. Tickets to include a seat at your […]

Behn Quartet

Frome concerts group presents ‘Behn Quartet’. One hour concert with coffee included.   Welcoming back the exceptionally talented Behn Quartet ahead of their much anticipated Wigmore Hall Debut! To include Haydn’s Lark’ quartet and wroks by Shostakovich and […]

Architecture Club presents…Houses for a Better Life with Meredith Bowles

Mole Architects’ director Meredith Bowles talks about the practice’s ethos, and describes houses and housing that are joyful to live in, use less energy, and contribute to a greater wellbeing.

Raphael Wallfisch

Frome Concert’s Group present…Raphael Wallfisch. One hour concert with coffee included.   The outstanding british cellist, Raphael joins us to perform a selection of Bach’s iconic solo Celle suites.

Ben Ottewell

With an avid following from the days in his former band Gomez, singer/songwriter Ben is dropping into Frome to give us some tunes from his solo material including the recent album ‘A Man Apart’ plus a few tunes […]

‘Calming The Chaos’ Zoe Harding Exhibition

Zoe Harding is a local Artist that recently studied at Frome Community College, she is furthering her education at another Art institution. Zoe first came to Rook Lane as a student and after such positive feedback and sales […]

Eight Pieces

An Exhibition of Eight Mixed Media Artworks by Matthew West. “I live and work in Glastonbury and have a great sense of the land around me. I aim to represent the environment as it is, not overly romanticised […]

Architecture Club…Fact, Fiction, Fantasy: the Architectural Imagination

The final architecture Club of 2018 presents…Fact, Fiction, Fantasy: the Architectural Imagination How deep are the dungeons in Dracula’s castle?  Does Mr Darcy’s Pemberley look different in your mind than it does on TV?  Join Dr Amy Frost […]

Fact, Fiction, Fantasy: the Architectural Imagination

How deep are the dungeons in Dracula’s castle?  Does Mr Darcy’s Pemberley look different in your mind than it does on TV?  

Join Dr Amy Frost as she explores how the reader is the architect of some of fictions famous (and not so well known) buildings.

‘FROM FORMLESNESS TO FORM.’ Ramón Gil exhibition

NOW EXTENDED TO 23rd NOVEMBER.   Born in Valencia, Spain. Ramón studied fine art and taught in the Faculty of fine arts with artistic creation. With a phD in Fine Arts, now a retired University profesor Ramon is […]

What if … Tiny Homes – Featuring the Edspace

Fair Housing For Frome Meeting. “This meeting will be different. Part exhibition, part discussion. We will construct a “tiny home” originating from an Edventure Project called the ‘Edspace’ which you can explore in place. Other examples of tiny […]

Spindle Ensemble – Album Launch

  Spindle Ensemble are an experimental instrumental quartet from Bristol’s music collective Bloom. They perform original compositions by Daniel Inzani that hover cinematically somewhere between jazz, folk and classical idioms, taking inspiration from artists such as Moondog, Eric Satie, Charles Mingus and Mulatu Astatke. They will be releasing […]

Macbeth… Re-told by Debs Newbold

Mr Rooks Speak Easy presents…   MACBETH… RE TOLD BY DEBS NEWBOLD Come and be pulled deep into the world of The Bard’s darkest tradegy with this alchemic solo performance from theatre artist and storyteller Debs Newbold. From […]

Said the Maiden

Said The Maiden – Album Tour.   Said The Maiden are Jess Distill, Hannah Elizabeth and Kathy Pilkinton, three friends who discovered a mutual love of folk music when they reunited several years after spending their school years […]

Architecture Club presents…Ten Points with David Kohn

‘Ten Points’ sets out the position of David Kohn Architects towards questions of collaboration, comfort and adaptation within contemporary practice, illustrated by past and current office projects.

Dispossession: The Great Social Housing Swindle (Film)

This screening is being organised by Fair Housing for Frome, a community group running a campaign during 2017 to raise awareness of, and seek solutions to, the housing crisis in Frome. The screening will be followed by a […]

Mr Rook’s Speakeasy Presents… Three Acres and a Cow

Mr Rook’s Presents Three Acres and a Cow, A History Of Land Rights And Protest In Folk Song And Story. ‘Three Acres And A Cow’ connects the Norman Conquest and Peasants’ Revolt with current issues like fracking, our […]

Mr Rook’s Presents… The Storyteller’s Bardic Chair of Somerset

    Once a year Mr Rook’s steps away from its usual format and collaborates with Openstorytellers to bring you the Bardic Chair – an open competition where anyone can tell any traditional or original story and the […]

Frome Concert’s Group presents… THE CASTALIAN QUARTET

The Castalian Quartet is rapidly emerging as an exciting voice on the international chamber music scene. Over the last three years they have won top prizes at major international competitions and were selected to become YCAT performers (Young […]

Architecture Club

  Architcture Club Presents…Unbuilt Bath with Dr Cathryn Spence. Dr Cathryn Spence is a museum professional, writer, lecturer and heritage consultant. She has published 5 books and countless articles on Bath’s history, including Bath in the Blitz: Then […]

Frome Concert’s Group Presents…Solovey Duo

Frome Concert’s group returns with Inspirational performances by outstanding young musicians…Join us for informal afternoon concerts! Much in demand as soloists, Flautist Renate Sokolovska and harpist Valeria Kurbatova join forces to present a fascinating programme centred around Russian […]

David Chandler’s private view with Yapp Brothers’ wine tasting

An Exhibition of David Chandler’s Collages for Yapp Brother’s Wine Merchants Over the last four decades West Country wine merchants Yapp Brothers have commissioned a variety of celebrated artists to illustrate their annual wine list. This year they […]

Frome Comic Con Cosplay Ball

The Frome Comic Con Opening Party! Be the first to see some of the action with Batman’s new ride from Podpadstudios and the hero/villains of GCUK. The first is the family time of 5-7pm, Adults £5, Children £3. […]

Family Fun Day

Join us at Rook Lane Chapel for fun for all the family for Dorothy House Hospice Care. BBQ, Creative Caterpillars, Bouncy Castle, Local Cider, Stalls, Classic Cars and more… Free entry! Profits go to Dorothy House Hospice Care […]

Alexandra Brown… as part of the Open Studios

Into the Forest- paintings and drawings of magical creatures and sacred trees. For Those in Peril- a series of small paintings inspired by images of migration past and present. Private View Saturday 8th 18:00 – 21:00 Open Daily […]

Kusanganisa + Young Waters

“Kusangansia” (the Shona word for ‘mixture’) is an intercultural collaboration between mbira player Chartwell Dutiro from Zimbabwe, guitarist Leandro Maia from Brazil, rock bassist Chris Blanden and jazz saxophonist Nick Sorensen. Their mesmeric music has enchanted audiences wherever […]

The Busquitos

The Busquitos are an absolute must for jazz fans and those who enjoy great music suffused with comedy. Hailing from the Netherlands, this hugely talented quartet bring their gypsy jazz instrumental virtuosity to Frome, between residencies at the […]

Secret Underground Cities – Corsham During World War II

Frome Society for Local Study presents an illustrated talk by Nick McCamley. By the mid-1930’s the British Government was preparing for war. Disused stone quarries below the villages of Neston Gastard and Monkton Farleigh were converted for power […]

The Life and Work of Edward Thomas

A commemoration of one of England’s finest poets, with performances by Matthew Hollis (author of Now All Roads Lead to France, the award-winning biography of Thomas) and a cast of professional actors including Stephanie Cole, James Laurenson and […]

Praying for The Rain in Concert

Following last years sell out concert, Praying for the Rain return to Rook Lane Chapel for Frome Festival 2017. Known for their dynamic and compelling live performances, Pftr blend contemporary folk, roots and world music with irresistible rhythms, […]

Architecture Club…Housing the Future : Who, What, Where, When, Why

Barefoot Architects : ‘Housing the Future : Who, What, Where, When, Why’ Barefoot Architects is an RIBA Chartered Practice run by Directors Sam Goss and Rob Hankey based in Bristol. The aim of the studio is to influence […]

Frome College Exhibition

The Future of Creativity Join us for the launch night Saturday 24th 6.00pm – 9.00pm Opening Times: 26th: 9.30am – midday 27th to 28th: 10.00am – 2.00pm The students from Frome Community College in their final year are […]

The Handlebards Present… AS YOU LIKE IT

The world’s first cycling theatre company, The HandleBards, pedal from venue to venue with all the set, props and costume necessary to perform environmentally sustainable Shakespeare across the globe. Join their all-female troupe in the beautiful Rook Lane […]

Architecture Club presents…Alison Brookes

Architecture and its Side Effects Alison Brooks has earned global reputation for her achievements in the field of design and architecture: from her first one off houses to her work in urban regeneration and housing, arts and education projects. Her […]

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy Presents… The Bear’s Son by A Spell in Time

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy The Bear’s Son by A Spell in Time Performance storytelling for adults The acclaimed British-Bulgarian storytelling company A Spell in Time returns with earth-stirring tales of transformation from the wild and wonderful heart of […]

Spring Jewels and Textiles Pop Up

For a few days in May, Emma Chapman jewels ,The Chapel Collection, Samarkand Design, Richard Allan  Art and Scarves, Miranda Berrow ceramics, Annabelle Thom bags and belts, The Ottoman Collection clothes and Mama Jo make up, will be […]

The Frukes…fundraising for Jamie Mines

The Frukes … raise money for Jamie Mines We will be celebrating the return of the Frome Independent Market and the sun (we hope) at Rook Lane with Frome’s very own Ukulele Club for an afternoon of great […]

Rook Lane Film Nights…PRISON

PRISON (FÄNGELSE) The new season of films at Rook Lane Chapel. Join us for a classic shown the best way. Ingmar Bergman’s cinematic experiment, made early in his cinematic career, holds a mirror to the film-making process:  following […]

Architecture Club Presents…Walter Segal and the Self Build Revolution with Duncan Roberts

In the 1970s Walter Segal developed a radical approach to affordable housing which allowed community groups to build their own cheap, easy-to-construct timber-framed homes on sites that were unsuitable for conventional housing. As an architecture student Duncan Roberts […]

FAIR HOUSING FOR FROME PUBLIC MEETING

Unaffordable house prices? Rising rents? Hidden homeless? This is a public meeting for anyone concerned about their current or future housing in Frome, or who cares about social justice and the future of our town. It will be […]

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy Presents…Little Red Riding Hood and Other Lost Girls

The fairy tale world is littered with girls who are lost or mislaid, and very few are as innocent as you might first imagine. Nell Phoenix strays from the path in search of young, and not so young, […]

Architecture Club presents….Electrifying the Great Western

Join Archaeologist William Filmer-Sankey and Architect Rhys Brookes to find out how good design marries the technical requirements of a modern railway with the need to preserve the beautiful historic infrastructure of the Great Western Line.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy Presents… Giants!

Giants! By Lisa Schneidau and Ronnie Conboy. Stories from the Bedrock of the British Isles “There were giants on the earth in those days….” Lisa Schneidau and Ronnie Conboy present a storytelling journey through some of the old […]

Monocle & Vice

This is an evening not to be missed…Monocle & Vice. Join Screaming keating and Norte promotions at Rook Lane Chapel for a selection of the U.K’s best boylesque and cabaret acts. A decadent evening of entertainment with an […]

Peter Knight’s Gigspanner in Concert

“Many people said that this was one of the best gigs they’d ever been to. I’d agree with that. If you get a quarter of a chance to see them, go” Mike Harding. Since his departure from folk-rock […]

The Great Lego Build

Friends of St John’s School present The Great Lego Build fundraiser with parent’s competiton, raffle, games and more! Design, create, build and play! Competition and prizes in three age categories: Rec / Yr1 Yrs 2/3 Yrs 4/5 Bring […]

Frome Concerts Group Presents…Aquinas Piano Trio

The Aquinas Piano Trio has established itself over the last five years as one of Britain’s most sought-after chamber groups. Following their Wigmore Hall debut in December 2015, Musical Opinion commented, ‘This sold out concert hall was in […]

Architecture Club presents…Invisible Studio with Piers Taylor

Taylor has pioneered a number of educational programmes including the Studio in the Woods where students use making to test ideas at 1:1, and also the Design and Make masters programme at the AA where students design and construct buildings over 16 months at the AA’s Hooke Park Campus. Taylor delivered the Assembly Workshop at Hooke Park, which used small-scale juvenile ‘waste’ timber in the construction of big span structure, which was built by students alongside skilled carpenters.

Frome Concerts Group Presents… Heath Quartet

This dynamic and charismatic quartet is fast earning a reputation as one of the most exciting British chamber ensembles of the moment. This very special concert is sure to be an amazing afternoon, an unmissable occasion and a dazzling finale.

Architecture Club Presents…Homes for Oxford with Charlie Fisher

Charlie will be exploring some of the traditional supply myths and build an argument for scaling alternative modes of housing which can help solve acute issues of affordability in high demand areas. This talk will feature case studies on innovative land and finance strategies from the UK and abroad with a focus on a number of ongoing projects in Oxford.

Frome Concerts Group Presents… Passacaglia

Passacaglia have performed to great acclaim at venues such as Wigmore Hall, have made many BBC Radio 3 broadcasts, and issued CDs on the Linn label to consistently enthusiastic reviews.

“The performances display clarity and crispness that perfectly matches the spirit of the music” Daily Telegraph.

Frome Concerts Group Presents… Duo Domenico

Enlightenment music for brother cellos, York Early Music Fest prize winners, Vladimir Waltham and Jonathon Rees explore the “swooningly melodic compositions” of Beethoven associates – Jean-Pierre and Jean-Louis Duport, interspersed with anecdotes about Voltaire, Napolean and others.

Frome Concerts Group present…Total Brass

Five young, award-winning and extremely talented brass players have combined to form a quintet called Total Brass. Undeterred by the relative lack of original brass quintet compositions, Total Brass entertained the audience with music full of interest and variety.

The Frukes Christmas Concert

The Frukes are back for a fun-packed fundraising Christmas concert.

Get your dance shoes on and come up to Rook Lane Chapel for a great night out! Including bar, raffle and Christmassy shenanigans…

Architecture Club presents…Abandoned Churches of Rural Russia with Clem Cecil

Director of Pushkin House, Clem Cecil has been recording the abandoned churches of rural Russia since 2004. Find out more about this unique and threatened architectural heritage.

Frome Concerts Group present… Ji Liu

“A young pianist with a rare sense of inborn musicality…a technique to match any virtuoso” (Pianist magazine).

Rook Lane Film Nights present…The Unbelievable Truth

Hal Hartley’s reinvention of small-town life and the loves and ambitions of an out-of-kilter younger generation is peopled with intriguingly unconventional stock characters interacting not quite predictably and is a joy to watch.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy Presents: The Haunted Inn and Other Weird Tales from the Saragosa Manuscript

A storytelling performance with music. Horror, humour, high adventure and thrilling music mingle in this fantastic duet of wicked words and virtuoso guitar playing.

Architecture Club presents… The Road to Hope Street: 20 years of theatre design with Steve Tompkins

Steve leads the Performance Design Studio at architects Haworth Tompkins. He will be talking about the studio’s approach to these specialised public buildings and presenting a selection of key projects, including the Royal Court, the Young Vic, Snape Maltings, the Bath Egg and the National Theatre, leading to the RIBA Stirling Prize winning Everyman Theatre in Liverpool’s Hope Street.

Rook Lane Film Nights present…Landscape in the Mist

Two children make an epic journey through a muted but astonishing landscape.

Frome Concerts Group presents…The Behn Quartet

Frome Concerts Group’s popular Teatime Concerts season welcomes the Behn Quartet featuring Kate Oswin (violin), Alicia Berendse (violin), Lydia Abell (viola), Victoria Bernath (guest viola) & Ghislaine McMullin (cello).

The Behn Quartet will be performing Dvorak ‘American’ Quartet No.12 in F Major and Dvorak String Quintet in E flat Major, op. 97.

Home of our Delight

Home of our Delight explores the stories of the young men marked on the Mells village memorial, and of their families.

As well as gamekeepers, gardeners and colliery workers these men included the last son and heir of the Horner family and Mells estate, and his brother-in-law, the son of the wartime Prime Minister.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy & Openstorytellers Present: The Storyteller’s Bardic Chair of Somerset

The Storytelling competition organised by Openstorytellers is back! Eight tellers compete for the Bardic Chair with the winner chosen by the Fates – last year they picked the MC who wasn’t even competing, who will they choose this year?

Frome Concerts Group present…Buck Brass Trio

Frome Concerts Group popular Tea Time concerts welcome the Buck Brass Trio featuring Daniel Walton (trumpet), Timothy Ellis (horn), Richard Buck (trombone).

Programme to include pieces by Bach & Beethoven.

Architecture Club presents…Lutyens & The Great War with Tim Skelton

Join Architectural Historian Tim Skelton to discover the story behind the extraordinary legacy of war memorials created by the great Architect Edwin Lutyens.

Frome Concerts Group present…Accordion & Viola duo: Iñigo Mikeleiz Berrade & Michael Iskas

Frome Concerts Group’s popular Tea Time Concerts season kicks off with Accordion & Viola Duo Iñigo Mikeleiz Berrade (accordion) & Michael Iskas (viola).

Rook Lane Film nights presents… Lola

This atmospheric and satirical study of moral bankruptcy is played out on the sleazy side of the tracks in small-town post-war Germany. Fassbinder’s film is a garish and flamboyant cautionary tale with a wonderfully abandoned performance by Barbara Sukowa in the title role.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy Presents: Return to Lyonesse by Mike O’Connor and Barbara Griggs

Kings and queens, saints, sinners and shape-shifters: their fate hangs in the balance…
Return to Lyonesse is a stunning storytelling performance from Mike O’Connor, accompanied by harpist Barbara Griggs.

The Battle of the Somme with Professor Sir Hew Strachan

The British folk memory of the Battle of the Somme is dominated by one moment: 7.30am on 01 July 1916. It was a bright summer’s day, the sun well up, and falling from the east on the backs of the German defenders and into the faces of the British. Officers sounded their whistles, and their men scrambled up ladders to get out of the trenches and into No Man’s Land…

Unfamiliar Spaces: Recent paintings by Julia Oborne

Julia Oborne’s paintings combine dreamlike colour and strange composition with solid, tangible objects, and have the aim of creating surreal scenes which do not quite ‘work’ whether this be because of an ill-fitting form or an unbalanced composition.

125 Years of Quarrying

In 1891, a group of businessmen led by John Wainwright decided to take advantage of the high-quality basalt rock available for quarrying in the Mendips.

Thus J.Wainwright & Company was born, and has grown ever since.

Now, a new book written by celebrated historian Robin Thornes, charts the company’s development over the last 125 years.

“FROM LAUGHARNE TO FROME”

This talented group of performers from South Wales take a script-in-hand journey through the controversial life of Dylan Thomas. Romantic, Bohemian, even surreal at times, his poems, short stories, letters and broadcasts provoke both laughter and tears whilst the rhythms and images of ‘Under Milk Wood’ cast a magical spell.

Praying for the Rain

“This driven musical collective lead by the visionary DeCicco brothers just can’t stop the potency of their music and the uncanny enchantment it spreads amongst all of us who have been fortunate enough to hear the music and follow their journey”. Max Reinhardt BBC 3 presenter on Late Junction.

Snowapple

Snowapple is an outstanding female harmony trio from Amsterdam who draw on folk, classical and chanson influences, in unique, charming and beautiful arrangements of original songs.

Kurdistan: A Dream Suspended

Richard Wilding, creative director of GULAN, a charity which promotes Kurdish culture, is a London-based producer and photographer who has worked extensively in the Middle East. His dazzling photographs bring to life the landscape, history and culture of the Kurdish people, as well as the problems they face in the wake of the Syrian conflict.

Architecture Club presents…Street – Who owns the city? with Peter Barber

Architect Peter Barber explores how space conditions and in turn is conditioned by society and culture and how Architecture can create the potential for social action & activity.

Unfolding Stories 2 – Contemporary Quilters South West

Contemporary Quilters South West exhibition Unfolding Stories 2 includes meditative hand stitching on indigo dyed pieces and on cream fabrics, abstract and brightly coloured dyed, printed, painted, pieced and appliqued work, figurative work featuring scenes from Frome and both abstract and figurative pieces inspired by walks at the seaside.

The Frome Hoard with Sam Moorhead of the British Museum

In 2010 a metal detectorist, Dave Crisp, prospecting near Frome found what became known as the Frome Hoard – 52,503 Roman coins. The overwhelming significance of the Frome Hoard is the new light that it casts on the life of the emperor Carausius – Britain’s ‘forgotten emperor’.

In Search of Shakespeare with Michael Wood

Illustrated talk by Dr Michael Wood, one of the UK’s best loved historians and broadcasters, and author of numerous popular history books including ‘In the footsteps of Alexander the Great’, ‘In Search of Shakespeare’ and ‘The Story of England’.

Rooklings Presents: The Whale’s Tale by Music Box Participatory Performance/Workshops for Families

A whale climbed a mountain, a statue spoke and people walked on water. Journey between land and sea to where stories are born.
With Sharon Jacksties and Pete Mona. ‘This well-known and much-loved storytelling and music partnership blend story and music into crafted shows.’

Rook Lane Film Nights presents…A Taste of Cherry (TA’M E GUILASS)

This Tehran-based road movie features a journey, but the route is somewhat circular and unfulfilled and the end unconventional. “A beautiful and emotionally complex meditation on life and death”,

Industrious: Workplace drawings in London and Frome by Lucinda Rogers

‘Industrious: Drawings of workspace in London & Somerset’, will build on Rogers’ longstanding interest in industrial spaces as engines of urban communities, frequently now under threat from controversial redevelopment.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy presents…The Whale’s Tale

Why does a whale climb a mountain? Why does a statue speak? As our climate changes so do our landscapes amidst the rising waters. Journey to a place where sea is land and earth is water, travel the shores where stories are born.

Sharon Jacksties and Pete Mona are a well known and loved storytelling and music partnership – together they are ‘Stranger than Fiction’. Their unique blend of traditional tales and music creates crafted shows where mystery and danger meet.

Lucinda Rogers in Conversation

Lucinda Rogers works from life in the tradition of the artist as reporter. She immerses herself in an environment and records straight from eye to paper, which gives her drawings a particular spontaneity. Her work records the intimate details and broad views of the changing city she lives in, London, and others she is drawn to including New York and Marrakech.

Architecture Club presents…The Housing Crisis & Greed Control with Danny Dorling

Tracing how we got to our current crisis and how housing has come to reflect class and wealth in Britain, Danny Dorling shows that the solution to our problems – rising homelessness, a generation priced out of home ownership – is not, as is widely assumed, building more homes. Inequality, he argues, is what we really need to overcome.

Rook Lane Film Nights presents…Death and the Maiden

The story of a woman’s chance encounter with the man she believes shattered her life 15 years earlier. A tense triangle of revenge and retribution that takes place in a single night and questions how trauma may be addressed and reconciliation may be found.

The Frukes’ Big Spring Shindig

The Frukes are back for a fun-packed fundraising* gig aided and abetted by Dexter’s Extra Breakfast.

Get your dance shoes on and come up to Rook Lane Chapel for a great night out!

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy presents…Rebranding Beelzebub

Let’s shine a spotlight on Him Downstairs in a show shaped by razor wit, diabolical horror and absurd confessions. Tim Ralphs re-imagines traditional tales in a collection spanning supermarket stalls, urban sprawls, mad drunken preachers and widow’s sons. Darkly humorous with disturbing turns and a distinct whiff of sulphur. **** Fringe Guru.

Architecture Club presents…Why Buildings Don’t Fall Down with Ruth Haynes

Following the collapse of the Rana Plaza factory in Dhaka, Bangladesh in 2013, killing almost 1200 people, Engineer Ruth Haynes of Build Collective worked for Tim Khan in Dhaka to survey factories that supplied clothing to two major British retailers. Find out what she discovered and why we need to push for good governance, transparency and professional Engineering.

Frome Art Fair – Spring 2016

Frome Art Fair returns to Rook Lane showcasing some fantastic local artists. Visitors will have the chance to revisit artists whose work they liked last time and also discover new artists whose work they may not otherwise have seen.

Rook Lane Film Nights present…Veronico Cruz

Set in a tiny, remote village in the Argentinean mountains, the film gets its narrative from the growing friendship between a shepherd boy and a teacher from the city.

Mr Rooks presents…The Dawn of Music by Jem Dick

How and why did we start making music? What stories do we tell about it? What did the first music sound like? All will be revealed in Jem’s fascinating performance which includes his hand-crafted reproductions of ancient and prehistoric instruments from around the world.

Groundswell Rising

Special screening of Groundswell Rising, a documentary about fracking in America and the social movement which has emerged from affected communities. Informative, daunting, inspiring and hopeful all at once.

Kammerphilharmonie Europa

A third visit to Rook Lane Chapel by this exhilarating chamber orchestra and returning by popular demand. Founded in 2006 the orchestra draws musicians from up to eighteen European nations.

Switch to a Renewable Future – Seminar

Join local, Regional and European experts to discuss how towns like Frome can support low carbon retrofit and renewable energy through finance, policy and planning.

Martha Tilston: The Oxygen Tour

Martha Tilston’s new tour is a sparky union of folk, acoustic, trip-hop and electronica. She entwines raw vocals, sparkling melodies and thought-provoking lyrics with filmic movements and earthy baselines. To see them live is to connect with longed-for parts of ourselves.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy Presents: Fifty Shades of Graham by Graham Langley

Described by The Times as a ‘storyteller for the 21st century,’ Graham’s enthusiasm, energy and enthusiastic performances have captivated audiences worldwide. He was a resident storyteller at Birmingham Storytelling Cafe for seventeen years and his shows are guaranteed to delight audiences. Tonight his storytelling is taken to a new dimension as he is joined by Pam Bishop, who enriches the tales with her unique blend of music.

Peter Knight’s Gigspanner

Peter Knight’s Gigspanner have blown the dust from a collection of well-worn traditional music and song to reveal authentic moments of staggering originality and great beauty. Modern in interpretation yet classical in its virtuosity, it is music that continues to inspire audiences of all leanings, bringing them back for more.
Peter is joined by Roger Flack on Guitar and Vincent Salzfaas on Percussion.

Passamezzo ‘The Fruit of Love’

Music, words and song for St. Valentine’s day. Passamezzo specialise in costumed productions featuring ballads, lutesongs, madrigals, consort music and readings from 16th and 17th century England.

Architecture Club presents…Civic Leadership with Robin Hambleton

Drawing on evidence presented in his new book, Leading the Inclusive City, Robin Hambleton will suggest that imaginative place-based leadership can enable citizens to make a difference.

Coffee Concert Special….Marylebone Trio

The Marylebone Trio’s lively, informative presentation style and excellent ensemble technique make them ideal coffee concert performers.

Walking towards conflict: One Day Overview of Restorative Circles with Dominic Barter

Dominic Barter will share his groundbreaking work re-visioning how we respond to conflict in our lives. He will present the key elements of a restorative system, focusing on the evolution and practice of Restorative Circles, and their application to diverse areas of our personal and collective lives.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy Presents…The Falcon Bride by Katy Cawkwell

“It seems unlikely that this is the last wedding where you will feature as the bride…”
Darkly comic, tragically romantic tales from the Saga of Nhal of deadly Queen Hallgerd and the Viking hero Gunnar.

Coffee Concert Special….Alexandra Dariescu

A third visit to Rook Lane Chapel by this internationally acclaimed, captivating pianist. Her programme will include pieces by Chopin, Faure, Mendelssohn, Szymanowski and Tchaikovsky.

A Show for Fred

An upbeat celebration of the life of Frome Festival stalwart Brenda “Fred” Rolfe featuring many of Frome’s finest performers.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy Presents Robyn Hode: His Life and Death by Michael and Wendy Dacre

Songs of the Greenwood wind in and out of the stories to create a vision in sound of Merrie England.

Rook Lane Film Night: SUGARBABY (ZUCKERBABY)

Percy Adlon’s cult film is as subdued as it’s cinematography is flamboyant. Touching, funny and unpredictable this is an unexpectedly warm-hearted cult classic.

Creation – Lines in Dreamtime: Andrew Palmer

Andrew’s body of paintings for the exhibition reflect the start of the Creation of Mathematics in “Dream Time” starting with a single dot building simple lines and curves and gradually progressing to more complex shapes and ideas.

Teatime Concert: Charlotte Betts-Dean and Andrey Lebedev

Lottie and Andrey will perform songs by Dowland and Britten and Andrey will also play pieces by Bach and Birtwistle.

Teatime Concert: Wen Wen and Tiago Gomes

Prize winning violinist, Wen Wen will be accompanied by guitarist Tiago Gomes, performing pieces by De Falla, Faure, Machado, Paganini and Piazolla.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy Presents: Knotwork, The Magic of Making by Angharad Wynne

In this knotwork of stories and songs, Angharad weaves the enchantments of the forge and the spells of the loom, tales of mythical makers and the magical things they made.

Hunting Raven Books presents Alexander McCall Smith

Join best-selling author Alexander McCall Smith for an evening of sheer delight at Rook Lane Chapel.

Frome Art Fair

The Frome Art Fair will be taking place on September 26th, showcasing some of the very best artists from the local area.

Openstorytellers Presents: The Bardic Chair of Frome Storytelling Competition

This year Openstorytellers have partnered with Mr Rook’s Speak Easy, to present the Bardic Chair of the Avalon Marshes competition.

Shirley Collins: America over the Water

A must-see event for folk fans, English folk legend Shirley Collins brings stories and songs from her memoir “America Over the Water” to close Frome Festival 2015.

Praying for the Rain

A very special Frome Festival evening of contemporary folk and world music from this acclaimed group.

Frome Society for Local Study presents…. They came to Frome: WW2 Evacuees

Frome Society for Local Study invites us to remember the evacuees who came to Frome during the second world war. Local author David Lassman coordinates the event, which combines film and the testimonies of evacuees and their hosts.

Storywalk in a Day

A family workshop from Break 3 and storywalks artist Chris Jelley, aimed at capturing imaginations through technology, art and stories.

Simon Ellis: Ghosts of Somerset

Singer-Songwriter Simon opens out Frome Festival programme with a set of original folk stories and songs.

Tampopo

A truck driver stops at a small family-run noodle shop and decides to help its fledgling business in a story intertwined with vignettes about the relationship of love and food.

Architecture Club Presents… “Outraged – Ian Nairn arrives on the scene” by Gillian Darley

Writer, biographer and broadcaster Gillian Darley discusses Ian Nairn’s journey from the RAF to the Architectural Review in this month’s Architecture Club.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy Presents…The Kiss of Forgetfulness by Nell Phoenix

Stories of love, luck and sharp objects told for adults, with the dark, the murky and the weird left lurking in the heart of the story.

Frome Art Society: Spring Exhibition

New works in a variety of media in Frome Art Society’s Spring 2015 exhibition.

Architecture Club Presents… Ian Firth: Elegance in Bridge Design

Elegance really matters in the built environment, but what is it when applied to bridges? Engineer and bridge designer Ian Firth joins us for May’s Architecture Club.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy presents… Fool’s Gold

Mr Rook’s presents double act storytelling with a hint of the surreal from Steve Killick and Francis Maxey.

Architecture Club presents… Space for the Creative Industries with Peter Clegg

Award-winning architect, Peter Clegg joins us to discuss the importance of creative industries.

The Best Intentions (Den Goda Viljan)

The story of Ingmar Bergman’s parents, and a fasciating insight into how 19th century Sweden might have been.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy presents…The Dragon Lover

Interweaving storytelling, ritual and evocative music, A Spell In Time presents a deliciously dark jewel from the primal and poetic heart of Bulgarian myth and folklore.

Chris Wood

MOJO: “a rarefied talent, both as writer and interpreter.”

Architecture Club presents Sarah Wigglesworth

Award-winning architect and Professor of Architecture, Sarah will join us for March’s Architecture Club.

Night Sun

Young nobleman Baron Sergio Giuramondo, after discovering that his bride-to-be was the king’s mistress, leaves Naples in disgust to become a monk in this sumptuous Italian drama.

Tongues of Flame: The Life of Richard Francis Burton By Giles Abbott

In his new touring show, storyteller Giles Abbott tells us the tale of Richard Francis Burton – an irreverent, sensual, driven and daring character who deserves to known.

The Sacconi String Quartet

The Sacconi Quartet is known throughout the world for its creativity and integrity, come and enjoy this world-class quartet in an unparelleled environment.

Desire Lines: Romance and Rationalism in Bridge Design

The Architecture Centre and Pippa Goldfinger present their collaborative project exploring bridge design.

Andy Cutting / Sam Sweeney / Rob Harbron :: Leveret

Three of England’s finest folk musicians in an exciting new collaboration. Sophisticated and honest, measured yet spontaneous, there is nothing else that sounds quite like Leveret.

Diane Aidenbaum & Aude Giulliano

Something a little different to conclude this year’s Coffee Concert series, with Diane Aidenbaum and Aude Giulliano

Architecture Club: Desire Lines

Architecture Club founder, Pippa Goldfinger discusses the Desire Lines: Romance and Rationalism in Bridge Design exhibition.

The World of Apu

The third title in the Satyajit Ray’s “Apu” Triolgy kicks off our new season of rare films.

Joseph Shiner & Frederick Brown

A communicative and insightful performance, to include Ireland’s Fantasy Sonata, Brahms’ Sonata in F minor opus 120 no. 1 and a Fantasia on themes from Verdi’s Rigoletto.

Aquinas Piano Trio

A new season of Sunday morning concerts from the Frome Concerts Group.

Into Life

David Chandler’s life drawing class present new works. This show will be both a celebration of their work and the extraordinary, miraculous form that we all possess.

Lion’s Club Christmas Concert

Christmas cheer from the Lions Club of Frome, as they present Opus Anglicanum.

Political Alternatives with Natalie Bennet, Leader of the Green Party

Natalie Bennett, Green Party National Leader: “The political system is broken. But what are the alternatives?”

She’s Gotta Have It

Spike Lee’s debut film resounds with the brash confidence and dexterity which have lit up and turbo-charged all of his subsequent films.

The Goldman Ensemble

A humourous programme, exploring the highs and lows of a musicians life, packed with much-loved music.

Architecture Club presents…..Chris Romer-Lee, Studio Octopi

Chris Romer-Lee of Studio Octopi will talk us through some of their recent projects including the intriguing Thames Baths project creating a floating pool in the River Thames

Steiner Academy Frome Advent Fair

Festive activities, hand-made gifts and children’s entertainment from the Frome Steiner Academy.

The Lords of Thyme with support from Sara Vian + Feral Beryl

Ethereal contemporary folk comes to Rook Lane, as we welcome Lords of Thyme. “A dreamlike sound that can only be described as traditionally English.”

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy presents… Cath Little: Castle Arianrhod

This tale from The Mabignon tells the story of the harm that comes into the world when sister and brother fight.

Rook Lane and Back Again: A Year with the Frome Sketchers

Frome Urban Sketchers select the fruits of their recent adventures though the town and beyond.

SCALE + AMBITION: AJ Small Projects 2014

A barn, a bridge, a bunker, a cafe, a castle, a cinema, a shed, a window, a staircase, a toilet… these are just a few of the Architects’ Journal’s favourite things.

The Write Day

A one-day retreat for procrastinating writers, who work to the maxim: Don’t get it right, get it written.

Architecture Club presents… David Knight : Building Rights

November’s Architecture Club welcomes designer and author David Knight to discuss recent work with his practice DK:CM

Teatime Concert: Aurora Trio

Emma Halnan (flute), Joe Bronstein (viola) and Heather Wrighton (harp) established their trio in 2012 whilst studying at The Royal Academy of Music. Their programme concludes this Tea Concert series with enchanting pieces by Debussy, Krouse, Matthias and Ravel.

The Thief (Vor)

The chance encounter on a train between a mother and her young son and a seductive soldier provides a worm’s-eye-view of real life in post-war Stalinist Russia.

Teatime Concert: Rolton Bentley Duo

Frome Concerts Group presents the second in their current season of afternoon concerts, featuring young musicians from London’s Royal Academy of music.

The Write Day

A one-day retreat for procrastinating writers, who work to the maxim: Don’t get it right, get it written.

Green Wednesdays Frome presents: Jo Berry and Patrick Magee

Jo Berry and Patrick Magee share their experience of helping others to better understand the roots of war, terrorism and violence.

Architecture Club Presents…. Elsie Owusu ” UK Supreme Court: Architecture, Art and the Rule of Law”

This month, Architecture Club is joined by Elsie Owusu – specialist conservation architect and partner at Feilden & Mawson.

LIFE AND NOTHING BUT (La Vie Et Rien d’Autre) 1989

Our resident film expert Alastair unearths hidden gems from the BFI library, most of which are now only available on 16mm film.

Teatime Concert: Total Brass Quintet

Frome Concerts Group return with a series of Teatime performances for autumn which will surprise and delight.

Mr Rook’s Speak Easy presents… The Eye of the Beholder by Sharon Jacksties

In Mr Rook’s inaugral storytelling event, he invites Sharon Jacksties to perform her latest programme, which features how the ugliest man in the world finds true love…

THE UNVANQUISHED (Aparajito) 1956

Monthly delights from the BFI Archive courtesy of our resident film expert, Alastair Goolden. Come along for films, food and conversation.

The Write Day

A monthly retreat for procrastinating writers: Don’t get in right, get it written…

Lin Hawkins: Power Stations

Lin Hawkins paints power stations because they are almost like the new cathedrals…of power, wealth and fear; they represent both our need for power, and our ambivalence towards this need.

Green Wednesdays Frome presents….. Pandora’s Promise

The second installment of this new event focuses on energy, with a screening of Pandora’s Promise, followed by a panel discussion and debate around sustainable energy.

Vintage Tea Party

Another lovely afternoon awaits courtesy of PAC. Expect tea & cakes, vintage china and live music to help you recharge and relax…

Jessica Delfino

The hilarious and irreverent New York City singer, songwriter, and comedian joins us on her way from the Big Apple to the End of the Road festival.

The Write Day

A monthly retreat for procrastinating writers, The Write Day aims to help you get those words onto the page in a supportive environment.

RIBA South West Awards 2014: Great British Buildings

The 2014 selection of RIBA Award shortlisted projects, presented to celebrate and explain the 15 shortlisted schemes with citations and photography.

Frome Festival: Fake Thakray

‘It is marvellous that Jake Thackray’s treasured songs ride again. They are in safe hands’ – Ralph McTell

Frome Festival: Men in General

An evening of five-piece vocal antics from this acapella group – fast paced and funny, this is a not to be missed Frome Festival special.

Urban Sketching with David Chandler: The Italian Edition

A day of sketching in the summer sunshine with David Chandler, complete with a seasonal Italian lunch. All abilities and drawing materials are welcome, and sketch books are included in the ticket price.

Frome Festival: Anarchy in the Organism + Plenum

A unique evening of audio visual immersive performances. Both Anarchy in the Organism and Plenum display a world of transience and disorder out of which fleeting patterns emerge.

Frome Festival: National Treasures with David Chandler

An evening of scintillating debate, hosted by Frome’s favourite Art Tutor, David Chandler who asks the panel, and audience: “Art. Is it worth it?”

Green Wednesdays: Frome

A brand new regular night for Rook Lane, with films, music, talks and more with an environmental focus. Brought to you by Wild Robot.

Frome Fesitval: Acoustic Café: Food for the Soul

A gathering of Frome’s acoustic musicians for a relaxed summer evening of soulful sounds and delicious food.

Frome Society for Local Study presents….Mr Gladstone comes to Frome

Another compelling historical presentation from the Frome Society for Local Study.

Frome Festival: Billy Thompson – Gypsy Jazz

A lively evening awaits as the Frome Festival gets underway, with Billy Thompson’s Gypsy Jazz.

Frome Festival: Duo Poniente

In our first event of the Frome Festival, Rook Lane welcomes back Duo Poniente’s unique blend of spanish influenced guitar and vocal pieces.

Architecture Club presents… Tanya Ross: Breaking the Glass Ceiling.

Tanya Ross of Buro Happold Engineers joins us for the latest Architecture Club.

Dance, Girl, Dance

Another rare treat from our film expert Alastair.. Ticket prices for Rook Lane FIlm nights include food, wine and conversation – what more could you wish for on a Sunday evening?

The Write Day

A monthly retreat for procrastinating writers, The Write Day aims to help you get those words onto the page in a supportive environment.

The Travelling Talesman – Away with the Fairies

The loquacious and mysterious talesman returns with some springtime stories of magical and mischevious small folk…

Chantel McGregor (plus Mark Pontin Group support)

Imagine the tone of Robin Trower, the inspiration of Hendrix, the influence of Stevie Ray Vaughan, the energy of Bonamassa, the intensity of Walter Trout and the haunting vocal of Stevie Nicks all rolled into one…..

Architecture Club presents…Occupying Space with Shankari Edgar, Nudge Group

Skankari Raj Edgar, founder of Bristol-based Architecture and design consultancy Nudge Group, joins us for the latest edition of Architecture Club.

Panther Panchali

A coming-of-age tale from 1940s India, with a film score by Ravi Shankur, Pantha Panchali is another rare cinematic treat for film fans. Come along for complimentary food, wine and conversation before the screening.

Frome Art Society Springtime Exhibition

A seasonal collection of works from Frome’s esteemed art society.

Uncle Vanya

A Russian tale of love and death

Frome Urban Sketching with David Chandler

Sketching in Frome with one of the town’s most prolific artists and tutors, David Chandler. David (with the help of Giles Vallis from NVB Architects) will lead the group in sketching Frome’s beautiful idiosyncracies.

An evening of the wit and songs of Noel Coward

Peter Gill pays homage to Noel Coward in an evening of delectably delivered music and comedy.

Keith James performs… the songs of Leonard Cohen

Described as ” …a sublimely intimate and engaging voice” by the Sunday Times, Keith James re-tells the timeless material of that most enigmatic and poetic of lyricists. A must-see for any Leonard Cohen fan.

Architecture Club presents…. Geoff Rich from FCB studios on the Bath Abbey Footprint

Another stimulating talk for this month’s Architecture Club, featuring Geoff Rich from Feilden, Clegg & Bradley Studios, discussiong their impressive Bath Abbey Footpront project.

Kammerphilharmonie Europa in concert

Another rare treat, and oppurtunity to see this breathtaking chamber orchestra on their next visit to Frome.

Instructions for an Ordinary Utopia – Launch and talks

Launch of Instructions for an Ordinary Utopia, a new exhibition which builds on Foreground’s interest in curatorial models centred around innovative participatory and distribution structures designed to bring critically acclaimed contemporary practice to new and diverse audience.

The Write Day

A monthly session for procrastinating writers, The Write Day works to one principle: Don’t get it right, get it written.

Architecture Club presents….Ed Hollis: The Secret Life of Buildings

The second in our latest seaon of talks about architecure, planning and our environment. Open to everyone (not just architects), these talks intend to stimulate discussion about why we build what we build.

The Cycle

A harrowing story of a young man driven by epidemic poverty of his surroundings to become something he despises, The Cycle by Dariush Mehrjui depicts a gritty portrait of Iran under a corrupt Shah’s regime.

Free the Words Part 1: Adventures in Outdoor Literacy

Break 3 and the Frome Community Learning Partnership share new ideas and work around adventurous literacy, technology for making stories in the wilderness, and den-building for secret reading.

Break 3 Teacher Talks: Tales in Trails with Chris Jelley

An afternoon talk from award winning story-teller and digital artist Chris Jelley for anyone working in education who want to learn more about how to inspire an adventurour approach to reading.

Chris Jelley: Flycatchers and Winding Charms

Come and join award winning digital artist and story-teller Christopher Jelley, for a talk on how to inspire young readers by creating adventurous outdoor stories in the wilderness of West Somerset.

Frome Concerts Group presents…Quartetto di Cremona

In the final Coffee Concert of the season, Frome Concerts Group welcome one of Italy’s finest string quartets to the Chapel to perform pieces by Beethoven, Boccherini and Vacchi.

Words in the Woods: Family den-building workshop

Come along for a free family den-building workshop at Rook Lane Chapel, where you can design and build your own secret space for reading.

Architecture Club presents….Destination Antarctica with Hugh Broughton

The first in this seaon’s talks on architecure featuring Hugh Broughton, whose architectural practice desgined the space-age Halley VI Antarctic Research Station.

Dear John

A romantic drama from Swedish director Lars Magnus-Lindgren opens 2014’s Spring film season.

Frome Concerts Group presents… Cordelia Williams

Young pianist Cordelia Williams pays a visit to the chapel for the second in this year’s Coffee Concert series from Frome Concerts Group. Expect a programme of Schumann and Schubert.

Frome Concerts Group presents… Duo Dorado

Frome Concert group’s latest series of concerts for 2014 kicks off with a performance from Duo Dorado with a diverse programme played on harpsichord and violin.

The Steiner Academy Frome Advent Fair

All are welcome to this festive day out with a difference from Frome’s new Steiner Academy.

ARCHITECTURE CLUB presets Liza Fior of muf architecture / art

Groundbreaking collaboration muf have broken all the rules about where art ends and architecture begins, and are continuing to gather worldwide acclaim for their designs.

An evening with Strode Music Theatre Society

An evening of music from stage and screen as performed by Strode Musical Theatre Company’s 35 stong choir, in aid of raising funds in support of Mendip YMCA. Come along for a fell-good evening of music to support this local charity.

The Travelling Talesman presents… Goblins, Ghouls and Long Legged Beasties

The Travelling Talesman travels up and down the land, telling weird and wonderful tales. He’ll be stopping off with us on his latest tour, with an atmospheric piece of story telling, apt for Halloween….

ARCHITECTURE CLUB presents Owen Hatherley : Why is British Architecture so Bad?

Acclaimed architectural writer Owen Hatherley discusses and interrogates the building schemes of the 2000s, and asks a contentious question of those responsible for them. Come along for a night of discussion and debate, or to offer your thoughts on the state of British Architecture.

Robbie Boyd plus Black Feathers // Beth Monk // Colour the Atlas support

From busking roots to performing atop the O2, Robbie Boyd is stopping off here at Rook Lane on his latest tour. With a distinctive and charming style of acoustic folk pop, Robbie is not to be missed.

I CAME, I SAW, iPAD: David Chandler’s Year with Yapp Brothers.

Award-winning French wines, expertly selected by Yapp brothers wine merchants, have inspired an exhibition of artworks by Frome artist and francophile, David Chandler.

Jazz ExTempore Orchestra

International jazz collective Jazz Extempore visit Frome to share new pieces from their album, East and West. A must-see gig for jazz fans, this diverse group offer a unique blend of traditional and contemporary jazz, with elements of Eastern folk.

Riding Lights present: A Different Drum

One of Riding Lights most inspirational plays, ‘A different drum’ is touring the UK to widespread acclaim.

Afro-Cuban Sensibility

A weekend of events celebrating the root of Afro Cuban culture and beliefs taking place at the Merlin Theatre and Rook Lane Chapel, presented by Curator Lekan Babalola.

Arena Photographers South West – Somerset Art Weeks

A diverse group of portfolios, including conflict photography, fine art photography and portraiture. Part of Somerset Art Weeks 2013, the exhibition will also provide a back drop to a number of evening talks.

SAW presents… Artists Sue Palmer and Hannah Still discuss art and gardens.

An inspirational talk that explores the artistic response to the garden and its social politics.

ARCHITECTURE CLUB presents: Charles Holland

ARCHITECTURE CLUB presents Charles Holland from FAT Architecture in the first of a series of six talks designed to stimulate ideas and debate around architecture, space and the built environment.

Frome Stop the War Campaign presents: War……..What is it Good For?

The latest evening hosted by Frome Stop the War Campaign, featuring talks from Jeremy Corbyn MP, Dr Sami Ramadani and Dan Glazebook.

Steve James

Rootsy americana guitarist Steve James visits Frome for the first time on his latest visit to the UK. Expect a blend of contemporary folk and blues, delivered in Steve’s distinctively southern style.

Mark Carr: Suppression

Suppress: ‘to overpower, to subdue, to withhold, to repress, to conceal, to keep back from disclosure.’ Multidisciplinary artist Mark Carr brings a new body of site-specific work to Rook Lane Chapel.

Out of the Silence

A unique exhibition of contemporary literary illustration, curated by Rook Lane Arts and Hunting Raven Bookshop for the Frome Festival and early summer. Expect to be taken on a magical journey through work from some of literature’s leading artists.

Frome & District Wedding Guild presents: An evening wedding showcase…..

An informal evening event, hosted by the Frome Wedding Guild, showing off some of what the local area has to offer for anyone planning a wedding. Complimentary Pimms on the lawn and music are included!

Poniente

A rapidly evolving project showcasing a new take on Spanish music from two London-based musicians. A lively evening, which will appeal to Spanish music aficionados, classical music lovers, young rock and pop fans, jazz musicians and many more.

An Assortment of Sibyls by Leo Aylen

A rare treat to round off our Frome Festival Programme – Prunella Scales talks to Leo Aylen in this touching and funny performance.

Fat Stanley & Papa Le Gal

After a rare but well-received performance at last year’s Festival, Frome’s best loved, and slackest funk band will be gracing the Chapel for a second gig. Expect some groovy music, both live and on the decks…

Gary Fletcher and his band featuring Steve Simpson and Tom Leary

Veteran blues performer Gary Fletcher pays us a visit with former members of The Blues Band. This show will be an eclectic mix of folk, americana and blues.

Jack Klaff: Bosom Buddies

An impressive one-man show in which actor Jack Klaff plays an exhaustive list of personalities in an intricate performance boasting some funny moments, and some clever ones.

Intones presents: AV

Video and electronic soundscapes will fill the Chapel, courtesy of in:tones, a collaboration of musicians, sound artists and visual artists. Curated by Adam Jansch, this event will provide an audio-visual feast, the likes of which are rarely seen in Frome.

A Tongue of Stone

A unique piece combining archaeology, story-telling and music, Tongues of Stone was originally commissioned for Festival at the Edge.

In Praise of Thomas Bunn

Thomas Bunn (1767-1853) was one of the most influential men in Frome’s modern history. This is an evening to take us to a different age, to experience Frome as it was two hundred years ago and to celebrate a benefactor whose influence on the town is still visible today.

Frome Festival: Writers & Publishers Day

This promises to be an exciting day of talks, presentations and much more. The event presents and opportunity to meet accomplished writers, top literary agents, publishers and local writers from all genres.

Young Illustrators Grand Prize-Giving Ceremony

Come along to the launch of Frome’s First Young Illustrators competition. Prizes will be awarded and refreshments served!

Frome Festival opening night: Passamezzo “In Peascod Time”

A Frome Festival opening night concert from the Frome Concert Group, showcasing Passomezzo, a five-strong ensemble who combine period readings and costumes to present a programme of Elizabethan and Jacobean music.

Litmus Films: Learning for Real

How can we enable children to manage risk for themselves? Litmus Films present three short documentaries showing that wrapping children in cotton wool may not be the best preparation for adulthood.

Urban Sketching….in Frome

A unique opportunity to celebrate and draw some of Frome’s beautiful architecture, with Giles Vallis of NVB Architects and Frome draughtsman, David Chandler.

Teatime Concert: Jordan Bowron String Quartet

Katarina Dordevic and Guy-Noel Clarisse, violins, Jordan Bowron, viola, and Lucia Capellaro, cello, will play quartets from the classical period by fellow Austrians Haydn and his contemporary Joseph Eybler.

Persistent jet contrails and weather manipulation – Public talk on geoengineering

An introduction to the theory of geoengineering, including a free talk from David Lim.

The Illustration Competition at the end of the Universe…

A last chance workshop session, for those wanting to enter Break 3’s Young Illustrator Competition. Accompanied children from all age categories are welcome to have a go at creating a book cover design in the hope of winning prizes.

Keith Hyett: Landscape in Reflections concert

After two years dedicated to teaching and composition, Keith Hyett is back on the concert scene. Come along for new pieces of acoustic folk from Keith’s new album, Reflections.

Rook Lane Arts Trust AGM

The Annual General Meeting for Rook Lane Arts Trust will take place on Monday 3rd June from 4pm – 5pm. Any member of the public wishing to attend must contact the arts coordinator in advance of the meeting.

Teatime Concert: 2bas – Matthew Blunt and Henry Lindsay

2bas is a fresh new duo who describe their programme of transcriptions and original compositions as ‘a fun-filled and extraordinary experience.’

Frome Stop the War Campaign Presents: Drones – Convenient Killing: The Playstation Mentality

Drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVS) are either aircraft controlled from the ground by operators thousands of miles away, or increasingly, a robotic aircraft on a pre-programmed mission. Frome Stop the War Campaign presents “Drones: Convenient Killing and the Playstation Mentality” a talk by Chris Cole founder of ‘Drone Wars UK’. and Ian Chamberlain, Campaigns and Media officer of the National Stop the War Coalition

Teatime Concert: Marciana Buta and Rebecca Herman

Marciana makes frequent appearances across Europe and Asia, both in small ensembles and as a soloist. Rebecca returns to the Chapel following her appearances as the cellist in the Castalian Quartet. Marciana and Rebecca will be playing duets by Bach, Gliere, Kodaly and others.

Discuss & Do talk: Andy Jackson – How to Sell you!

The latest from Discuss & Do – This workshop will teach you simple and straightforward techniques to help you feel more confident about selling yourself. Helping you get clients’ attention and generate new enquiries.

Litmus Films: Ukulele Film Night

A unique insight into The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain since their ascent to the big time. This promises to be an evening of four-string fun, including the chance to play along to their just-released Live At Sydney Opera House film with on-screen musical notation!

Celebrating The Imagination: Zoe Fairbairns

Author, poet and journalist; Zoe Fairbairns will be speaking at Rook Lane in the latest installment from Celebrating the Imagination.

Chantel McGregor supported by Albany Down

Award-winning rising star of rock and blues, Chantel will perform at Rook Lane Arts as part of her current tour. Supported by Albany Down who will be offering “stripped-down-to-the-waist no nonsense rock and roll”.

Rook Lane Film Nights – MUDDY RIVER (DORO NO KAWA)

The children of a war widow living in a houseboat on the river of the title in Osaka in 1950 befriend the son of a local restaurant owner. The film is set against industrial skyline, where the young friends stand in innocent defiance of the social circumstances which bear down upon them.

Celebrating the Imagination: Gavin Pretor – Pinney

Founder of The Cloud Appreciation Society and author of The Cloudspotters Guide and The Wavewatcher‘s Companion, Gavin will be speaking at Rook Lane in the latest talk in the Celebrating the Imagination series.

Celebrating the Imagination – Colin Tudge

Colin Tudge, biologist, writer and founder of The Campaign for Real Farming come to Rook Lane to discuss “A Different View of Life – why genes are not selfish and people are nice.”

Men with Horns – Nightsong in the Spring

Men with Horns return to Rook Lane for an early evening sprigtime concert, with a programme that includes choral and solo songs by Schumann and Schubert (Nightsong in the Forest, the Gondolier, Widerspruch), plus Weber’s popular Hunters’ chorus.

Celebrating the Imagination: Helen Storey

Helen Storey is Professor of University of The Arts London In Fashion and Science who created the ground breaking project ’Primitive Streak‘, which brought together the worlds of science and fashion through the creation of a fashion collection.

Frome Art Society – Spring Exhibition

New work from the Frome Art Society. Mediums to include pencil, oil, acrylic, watercolour, pastel and charcoal. PRIVATE VIEW: Friday 12th April // 6pm – 9pm // All are welcome and admission is free.

Discuss & Do workshop: Digital Marketing for your business with Claire Sully, Tickbox Marketing

The future of marketing is digital. This workshop will guide you through how to use the web for marketing; highlighting which platforms out there are best for your business, by engaging with others through design, photography, web, video and art.

Celebrating the Imagination – Sacha Abercorn: The Imagination in Education

Sacha Abercorn is founder of The Pushkin Trust, “which works to provide and support a holistic model to spark imagination and deepen awareness of our collective creativity, our humanity and ‘the child’ within each one of us.”

Rook Lane Film Nights – AU REVOIR LES ENFANTS

Drawn from Louis Malle’s own childhood experiences in the 1940s, this simple chronicle of childhood friendship is increasingly touched by and reactive to the events of the time in much the same way as its two protagonists encounter them.

Metaphysica

The nature of being and the world around us prompts two basic questions in the broadest possible terms: What is there? What is it like? 

BIM Seminar: South West Hub 2nd session for 2013

The South West BIM hub presents a case study approach to BIM 4 SMEs in Architecture. With Speakers Andrew de Silva “Das” from davidmillerarchitects and Bill Pier & Derek Marshall from NC Architects.

The Rook Lane Wedding Fair

A handpicked selection of wonderful wedding suppliers from Frome and beyond, all under one roof! Admission is FREE throughout the day and there are lots of goodies to be had. Not to be missed for anyone planning a wedding….

Celebrating the Imagination – The Gist

Speakers include Lindsey Clarke, Liliane Lijn, Andrew Miller, Maggie Gee and John Moat, poet James Simpson and artist/book creator Carolyn Trant.

Celebrating the Imagination – Jackie Morris “East of the Sun, West of the Moon”

In the first event of the Celebrating the Imagination festival, come and hear about how Jackie Morris’ latest story was created. Jackie will be reading from the book and discussing the importance of illustration in her stories.

Rook Lane Retro – Springtime Spectacular

  March’s retro fair has been postponed until later in the year.

Kammerphilharmonie Europa – in association with Jackdaws and Frome Concerts Group

The packed programme is full of delights including Vivaldi, Bach and Grieg. This is a rare chance to hear the acclaimed Cologne-based Chamber Philharmonic Europe.

Rook Lane Film Night – ONE FROM THE HEART

An idiosyncratic musical set in Las Vegas in all its 4th July excess – perhaps not what might be expected of this director…

Discuss & Do Workshop: Watertight Marketing – Bryony Thomas

Packed with actionable tips and advice to step up your new business, right through from from initial enquiry to long term profit.

Discuss & Do talk: How Reputation is Your Brand – Nick Sinfield, Duo

Today everything is about your ‘brand’ – but what is your brand?

Coffee Concert – Ensemble Amaranthos

Led by Portuguese flautist, Marta Goncalves this international ensemble enjoy successful careers performing together and in other chamber groups and early music outfits such as the OAE, Florilegium and La serenissima.

Frome Stop the War Campaign presents WAR, INTERVENTIONS AND THE MEDIA

Is broadcast and print media providing balanced coverage and analysis of 21st Century wars and interventions?

Rook Lane Film Night – THE BLUE KITE (LAN FENG ZHEN)

A Beijing family’s eye-view of daily life in China in the fifteen years leading up to the Cultural Revolution in 1966. The first in our latest series of Sunday night films at Rook Lane Arts.

Rook Lane Film Nights Special Edition: The Third Man

Step out of the cold and into post-war Vienna for the Carol Read classic film starring Orson Welles. Tea and viennese confections will be served and those in film noir attire get discounted entry.

Coffee Concert: Gemma Rosefield & Benjamin Nabarro

We have wondered for several years how a solo cello programme would be received as part of our Coffee Concert series. In the end we felt that a pairing in which the cello is an equal partner to the violin would be more widely appreciated.

Coffee Concert: Badke String Quartet

A return visit by this sensational quartet who defied illness and snowy weather to perform in our 2009 season, since when two personnel changes have strengthened and honed their taut and precise playing.

Royal Photographic Society 155th International Print Exhibition

The first time this exhibition has visited Frome, we are delivering a series of related workshops and events with photographers in conjunction with the exhibition.

Frome Labour Party event with guest speaker Lord Jim Knight

The Frome Labour Party are pleased to welcome Lord Knight of Weymouth (Jim Knight) back to his adopted home of Frome.

Rook Lane Retro Vintage Market: Christmas Spectacular!

Roll up, roll up for the very best in Christmas shopping. We have vintage homewares, Christmas gifts, upcycled, pre-love vintage clothing and accessories, mulled wine, music, badge-making and more!

Jane Taylor in Concert

Fresh from their live session on Radio 2 with Bob Harris, the award winning Jane Taylor Band, first championed by Johnnie Walker, returns to Frome as part of a UK Tour.

RPS: Lecture – Mervyn Clingan

Photographer and lecturer Mervyn discusses the history of image making, photograph manipulation, and the transition between photography and fine art.

Light up a Life Service

A service organised by Dorothy House, for people to remember and commemorate departed loved ones.

RPS: Lecture – Vanessa Slawson

Documentary photographer, current Chair of the RPS Licentiate Distinctions Panel and one of the selectors of the exhibition, Vanessa will come to deliver a talk on the photographs currently on display.

Rook Lane Film Night – What Price Hollywood?

What Price Hollywood? One of the best behind-the-scenes looks at the old Hollywood studio system that was ever made.

RPS: Photographers Day workshops

A day of photography skills, talks and debate at Rook Lane Chapel , to celebrate the visit from the 155th International Print Exhibition from the RPS.

RPS event: Camper Obscura by FOTONOW

Drop in and join maverick photographers and university lecturers Matthew Pontin and Jonathan Blyth in their ‘Camper Obscura’, a mobile camera obscura in a 1986 VW transporter.

RPS: Aliceson Carter Kodachrome – The End

Artist Aliceson Carter discusses her recent major project, documenting the last days of kodachrome and her journey to America to deliver her final rolls of kodachrome film to the processing plant.

RPS: Ian Beesley

Join social documentary photographer and competition selector Ian for a lecture and discussion on photography practice.

Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman

With an eclectic repertoire, two of the British folk scenes most accomplished performers ensure a rare treat. Support by Sam Kelly.

RPS: Camper Obscura by FotoNow

Drop in and join maverick photographers and university lecturers Matthew Pontin and Jonathan Blyth in their ‘Camper Obscura’, a mobile camera obscura in a 1986 VW transporter.

An Evening with David Bradley

An evening of great entertainment from one of the best tribute acts in the music business. This will be a fantastic evening from a truly talented showman.

The Mouth of the Night

An evening of Traditional Celtic Story weaving words, music and song into a Celtic Wonder Tale.

ICE Talk: Chris Wise ‘Velodreamland’

Award winning Structural Engineer Chris Wise explores the beauty and pleasure in great engineering drawing on some of his highly acclaimed projects such as the Olympic Velodrome and the Infinity Bridge.

RPS: Launch Day Workshops

Workshops throughout the day at Rook Lane Chapel.

RPS: Print Exhibition Private View

Come along to celebrate the launch of the exhibition with drinks, nibbles and music. Join local photographers and RPS members for a first look at this collection.

Transmutation: Visualisation in Art and Science

Spike Bucklow is a research scientist and teacher at the Hamilton Kerr Institute, a department of the Fiztwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge.

Ben Waters in Concert

Heralded by Jools Holland in the Mail on Sunday as one of the best pianists of all time, his performances are sensational – this guy has played with the legends of rock ‘n roll – Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Shakin’ Stevens, Ray Davies – and is proud to call Jools Holland his friend and mentor.

Rook Lane Film Night

A schoolgirl escapes from the many responsibilities thrust upon her by her demanding and tempestuous family life by immersing herself in a comic strip set in ancient Egypt.

Energy and Movement Exhibition from The Old Bakery Artists

This popular, locally based group have had several successful shows in Rook Lane Chapel in the past few years. There will be a large grid of canvases on one wall with an interpretation from each member expressing the theme.

Retrospective: Elizabeth Feltham and Bruce Barden

Retropsective is a collection of works by local artist Elizabeth Feltham and her late husband Bruce Barnden.