New programme of creative events unveiled at Exeter Library
Published: 4 July 2023
The second season of an exciting new three-year programme of creative events is being rolled out by Libraries Unlimited in Exeter this autumn.
Last year the charity secured a £720,369 grant from Arts Council England to boost its thriving programme of music, films, workshops and high-quality community events throughout Devon between 2023 and 2026.
The first season, called Pride of Place, launched a programme workshops, performances, art and music events celebrating where people live. Hundreds of people enjoyed taking part during the spring and early summer.
Now Get Creating will encourage local communities to try their hand at everything from sewing to charcoal drawing and discover the artist that lies in everyone.
The sessions start in August and run through until November at Exeter’s Central Library.
Rae Hoole, of Libraries Unlimited, said: “The first stage of our new programme facilitated by this generous funding from Arts Council England went really well.
“Now we’re excited to build on that with a fantastic range of arts and creativity workshops and activities for all ages.
“We’re deliberately making many of these free of charge and aimed at families as well, so we can encourage even more people to come to their local library and see everything we have to offer. Everyone has creative potential, and it’s never more fun when we’re learning new skills and creating things together.”
The full programme at Exeter Central Library is:
Saturday 26 August, 9am – 5pm Summer fun day
Free
Library takeover for a celebration of the Summer Reading Challenge. There will be numerous kids’ activities throughout the building including a bouncy castle, face painter, soft play, sports demos, and games.
Friday 3 November, 8pm – 10pm This is your Musical! Tickets General: £13 Concession (U18, O65, student, disabled): £10 (all plus booking fee if booking via Eventbrite)
Suitable for all ages
Prepare to be amazed as you witness the creation of a brand new musical theatre show, courtesy of The Bristol Improv Theatre’s flagship musical theatre company, This Is Your Musical! Take your seats as this team of talented actors and
musicians present a magnificent evening of theatre, musical numbers and show-tunes, made-up on the spot and inspired by your stories. This night of musical fun is not to be missed!
Thursday 28, Friday 29, Saturday 30 September, Doors 7.30pm Performance 8 – 10.30pm
Washing Machine of Destiny - a theatre performance
Pay what you choose: £6 / £10 / £15 + booking fee Over 12s
The Washing Machine of Destiny is an 80-minute theatre show created by two Devon fellas on the autistic spectrum, Luca Saunders and Philip Robinson. They share their passions for music, technology, mystery adventures, superheroes, and magic, in a bonkers, eclectic mixture of characters and story. Directed by Pippa Marriott, the play aims to communicate the neurodivergent experiences of its creators in an entertaining and enlightening way.
Friday 6 October 8 – 10.30pm (doors open at 7pm)
Music in the library with Hands of the Heron
General: £10 Concession (U18, O65, student, disabled): £8
Hands of the Heron is a dreamfolk trio from Bristol, UK. Their instantly recognisable vocal harmonies are delivered by three frontwomen - Bec Garthwaite, Bethany M. Roberts and Claire Vine - each of whom brings a signature writing style to the band's mercurial sound. They move effortlessly between sparse choral folk and spellbinding chamber pop, richly layered with an assortment of strings, drones and reeds.
Wednesday 25 October, 7.30pm – 8.30pm
Paddleboat Theatre presents - 'Framed'
£7 Over 8s
The legendary detective Rufus Caper has been framed and needs your help to uncover the truth. PaddleBoat Theatre Company presents a thrilling family whodunit. Expect music, puppetry, physical comedy and more. Come and help us catch the clues and spot the suspects before Rufus goes down for a crime he didn’t commit!
To book tickets and see full programme listings, visit librariesevolve.org.uk/events