Anthony Nanson storyteller based in Stroud, Gloucestershire. Events listing

Anthony’s Events Diary

This is a diary of public events in reverse date order. (Private bookings are not listed.)

2012

Saturday 21 April

Spirits of Place. Did you know that monks could fly? That strange beasts lurk in the Forest of Dean? Or that ancient gods dwelt on the Downs? A sparkling evening of tales from Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, and Oxfordshire by three of the region’s fine storytellers. Fire Springs members Anthony Nanson, Kirsty Hartsiotis and Kevan Manwaring have scoured the three counties for their collections of Folk Tales, published by the History Press. Whether a newcomer to the region or a long-term resident, you'll never look at your neck of the woods in the same way again. Hawkwood College, Stroud. 7.30 p.m. for 8.00 p.m. Tickets: 01453 759034; www.hawkwoodcollege.co.uk/events/

Monday 19 March

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.45 for 8.15 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Sunday 11th March,

Forgotten Lives, Inspiring Stories: Memory, History, Legend. Take a trip back through time to meet, in person, an astonishing assembly of the city’s forgotten and half-remembered denizens. Adventurers and inventors, kings and clerics, writers and visionaries, they’ll all be here to tell their own true stories – brought back to life by Bath’s own storytelling company, Fire Springs, in this performance specially commissioned for Bath Literature Festival. Holburne Museum, Bath. 4.30-6.00 p.m. Tickets: 01225 463362.

Monday 20 February

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.45 for 8.15 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Monday 16 January

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.45 for 8.15 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

2011

Wednesday 21 December

Garden of Awen: Midnight Sun.A festive-spoken word showcase celebrating the launch of Places of Truth by Jay Ramsay and The Immanent Moment by Kevan Manwaring. Both collections feature poem sequences inspired by the deserts of Egypt. With special guests Adam Horovitz, Jehanne & Rob Mehta, Will Mercer, Josie Felce, Anthony Nanson, Herewood Gabriel, and more. Performance poetry, storytelling, acoustic music, and dance to mark the winter solstice. Dress to dazzle. Limited floor spots (3 mins) on winter solstice theme. Bring your wishes and prayers for the mandala of light. Lansdown Hall (The Space), Stroud. 7.00 p.m. £8 in advance/£10 on door. Free glass of mulled wine and mince pie on entry. Tickets: 01453 767576, info@lansdownhall.org; www.lansdownhall.org; www.awenpublications.co.uk

Monday 19 December

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.45 for 8.15 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Saturday 17 December

Storytelling at Ruskin Mill. As autumn deepens into winter, we invite story lovers young and old to join us at the Ruskin Mill fireside. Sit back and enjoy wonderful stories from a Christmas bonanza of local storytellers: Fiona Eadie, Kelvin Hall, Allison Cumberbirch, Val Dean, Kirsty Hartsiotis, David Phelps, and Anthony Nanson. 10.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Ruskin Mill, Old Bristol Road, Nailsworth. Children £3 (suggested minimum age 5); adults £4; family £10. Coffee shop open for drinks and home-made cakes in the interval. Contact: Fiona 01453 834793

Thursday 8 December

Stroud’s Story Cabaret. Storyteller Austin Keenan tells legendary tales of Ireland's ancient hero-gods, the Tuatha De Danann, in which the Sons of Turann struggle for honour and redemption. Folk-singer and guitarist David Metcalfe (of Fire Springs and Dark Tarn) sings stirring songs from Ireland's troubled history of conflict, famine and faith. Plus floor spots welcomed – bring a story, song or poem (no reading!) – or just come to listen. 7.30 for 8pm. £6 (concessions £5). Five Valleys Foyer (British School), Gloucester Street, Stroud. Bookings: Star Anise Arts Cafe 01453 840021. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Saturday 3 December

Winterfest. Transition Stroud invite you to a day of stalls, activities, food and entertainment – ‘inspiring ideas and practical workshops from across our community’. We also welcome the sublime storyteller Anthony Nanson, who will share some ‘Stories for our Times’. Bring your friends and neighbours. Venue: Riffs empty music shop, Threadneedle Street, Stroud. 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Contact: Helen 01453 755509; www.transitionstroud.org

Monday 21 November

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.45 for 8.15 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Saturday 19 November

The Golden Apples. In a unique collaboration, storytellers Anthony Nanson and Kirsty Hartsiotis, of Fire Springs, and the Chandos Singers, one of Bath’s leading chamber choirs, bring to life the wonder tales of Russia. It’s a journey into the dark hidden forests of the imagination to the land of the firebird and the tragic rusalka, where Ivan, the Tsar’s youngest son, must ride with the wolf to save his life and win the princess of his dreams. Rondo Theatre, Bath. 8.00 p.m. £10 (concessions £8). Tickets: 01225 463362.

Friday 18 November

The Rusalka and the Bear. In a unique collaboration, storytellers Anthony Nanson and Kirsty Hartsiotis, of Fire Springs, and the Chandos Singers, one of Bath’s leading chamber choirs, bring to life the wonder tales of Russia. Tonight’s performance comprises the ‘The Rusalka’, presented in storytelling and song, and a comedy-opera by Malcolm Hill, loosely based on Chekhov’s story ‘The Bear’. Rondo Theatre, Bath. 8.00 p.m. £10 (concessions £8). Tickets: 01225 463362.

Thursday 17 November

Saturday 12 November

Storytelling at Ruskin Mill. As autumn deepens into winter, we invite story lovers young and old to join us at the Ruskin Mill fireside. Sit back and enjoy wonderful stories from local storytellers Fiona Eadie and Anthony Nanson. 10.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Ruskin Mill, Old Bristol Road, Nailsworth. Children £3 (suggested minimum age 5); adults £4; family £10. Coffee shop open for drinks and home-made cakes in the interval. Contact: Fiona 01453 834793

Monday 17 October

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 8.00 for 8.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Sunday 16 October

Stroud Short Stories returns for another sparkling night of short stories read by their authors, at Stroud Valley Arts, John Street, Stroud. This time we promise used car salesmen and children looking to swap parents, beds in forests and lust in coffee shops, Chris Moyles, daleks, and finding the ANSWER TO EVERYTHING. With headliner Roshi Fernando, prize-winning author of Homesick. 8 p.m. £3 on the door. http://www.stroudshortstories.blogspot.com

Thursday 22 September

Stroud’s Story Cabaret. The bewitching Somerset storyteller Jane Flood and mesmerising Bristol harpist Martin Solomon will share stories from Ireland, Russia, and Lapland. ‘Her storytelling is magical … truly inspired and inspiring’ (Merlin Theatre, Frome). Plus floor spots welcomed – bring a story, song or poem (no reading!) – or just come to listen. 7.30 for 8pm £6 (concessions £5). Five Valleys Foyer (British School), Gloucester Street, Stroud. Bookings: Star Anise Arts Cafe 01453 840021. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Monday 19 September

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 8.00 for 8.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Monday 15 August

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 8.00 for 8.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Wednesday 10 August

What A Folk Festival! WAP! special performance event for Bath Folk Festival: ‘The Giant's Daughter’ and an evening of stories and music. Stories from Richard Selby and Kirsty Hartsiotis, music from Beth Porter, plus guests Sarah Jones and Anthony Nanson. St James Wine Vaults, Bath. 8.00 p.m. £6 (£5 concessions). Contact: Richard 01225 420683

Monday 18 July

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 8.00 for 8.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

01453 840887

Monday 20 June

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 8.00 for 8.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Friday 17 June

Stroud’s Story Cabaret. Vergine Gulbenkian will perform stories from Fire, the 17th-century Armenian love-epic of Kearam and Asli (‘Mesmerising … I have never been so captivated’ – Christina Patterson, South Bank Centre Education). Matt Sage – founder of Oxford’s legendary Catweazle Club, which now has branches in London, Brighton, and New York – will showcase songs from his latest album Let the Music Out (‘Seriously gorgeous sounds’ – Mike Scott, The Waterboys). Plus floor spots welcomed – bring a story, song or poem (no reading!) – or just come to listen. 7.30 for 8pm. £6 (concessions £5). Five Valleys Foyer, Gloucester Street, Stroud. Bookings: Star Anise Arts Cafe 01453 840021. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

453 840887

Monday 16 May

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 8.00 for 8.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Wednesday 20 April

Iona. This Easter week, come and celebrate the launch of the second edition of the late Mary Palmer's poem sequence Iona, with an evening of Celtic story, music, and poetry, including readings by Mary’s friends of her poems about the sacred isle of saints and druids. Waterstone’s, Milsom St, Bath. 6.30 p.m. Free admission. Waterstone’s: 01225 448515. Awen Publications: www.awenpublications.co.uk

Monday 18 April

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Friday 25 March

Dark Age Deeds of the Celtic Saints. Born from Druids, and tuned to

wild nature and the memory of old gods, Irish monks carried the torch

of civilisation through a dark age of conflict. Patrick, Columba, Colman,

Brendan – they parleyed with pagan heroes, battled with words for the

spiritual compass of these isles, and ploughed the waves in search of

earthly paradise. With Fire Springs’ distinctive blend of story and music,

Anthony Nanson and David Metcalfe bring legend to life. The Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre, Taunton. 7.30–9.30 p.m. £8 (concessions £6). Tickets: 01823 283244, www.thebrewhouse.net

Monday 21 March

World Poetry Day: Soul of the Earth. Celebrating the launch of Soul of the Earth: The Awen Anthology of Eco-spiritual Poetry, edited by Jay Ramsay, a showcase of some of the twenty-one contributors, poets with soil under their fingers and fire in their bellies: Jay Ramsay, Rose Flint, Helen Moore, Adam Horovitz, Margie McCallum, Karen Eberhardt-Shelton, Alyson Hallett, Jennie Powell, Jehanne Mehta, Kevan Manwaring, Lynne Wycherley, Dawn Gorman, Gabriel Bradford Millar. ‘All poetry seeks to “renew the face of the earth” ... I hope this collection will serve the renewal that we so badly need’ – the Most Revd Dr Rowan Williams. Waterstone’s, Milsom St, Bath. 6.30 p.m. Free admission. Waterstone’s: 01225 448515. Awen Publications: www.awenpublications.co.uk

Monday 21 March

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 8.00 for 8.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Friday 18 March

Stroud’s Story Cabaret. Join us for the launch of a brand-new quarterly storytelling and music night. Includes Old Tom’s Tales by Martin Maudsley and Fiona Barrow: spellbinding oral storytelling and live acoustic music weaving a poignant and endearing account of one man’s life and the stories that surrounded him. Plus floor spots welcomed – bring a story, song or poem (no reading!) – or just come to listen. 7.30 for 8pm £6 (concessions £5). Five Valleys Foyer, Gloucester Street, Stroud. Bookings: Star Anise Arts Cafe 01453 840021. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Friday 25 February

Voices in the City. This year’s Bath Literature Festival begins with a series of free events in and around Bath to celebrate the spoken word - culminating in a veritable vortex of varied voices at an evening session at St James Wine Vaults, Bath. 7.30-8.45 p.m.: Tellers from Bath Storytelling Circle, hosted by David Metcalfe and featuring Anthony Nanson, Kirsty Hartsiotis, and others. 9.00–11.00 p.m.: What A Performance! hosted by Richard Selby and including John Christopher Wood, Brian Madigan, Verona Bass, Mike Scott, Mark Sayers, Kevan Manwaring, and Beth Porter. Contact: David 01225 482170 or Richard 01225 420683. Free.

Thursday 24 February

Storytelling Book Launch. Join us on the eve of the Bath Literature Festival for a double launch by local authors and storytellers Anthony Nanson (Words of Re-enchantment: storytelling, myth & ecological desire, Awen) and Kirsty Hartsiotis (Wiltshire Folk Tales, The History Press). Includes author talks, stories, question time, and refreshments. Waterstone’s, Milsom St, Bath. 6.30 p.m. (talks start 7.00 p.m.). Free admission. Awen Publications: www.awenpublications.co.uk. The History Press: www.thehistorypress.co.uk

Monday 21 February

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 8.00 for 8.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Saturday 29 January

Emergence - Creative practice for a sustainable future. An initiative from Cynnal Cymru/Sustain Wales in partnership with Volcano, Emergence is a series of conferences for people working in the arts in Wales: an opportunity to network, share ideas, ask questions and get tools for a more sustainable practice; to celebrate the questioning spirit of art and determine how artists can make a difference in these times of ecological, economic and social instability. The initiative has two main themes: developing a low-carbon arts infrastructure, including venues; and developing the arts as a crucible of ideas and visions for a low-carbon, one-planet Wales. Today’s theme: interconnectivity. Guest Speaker: Satish Kumar (Resurgence). Presentations also from Judith Knight (Arts Admin), Tom Andrews (People United), Axel Tangerding (Meta Theater, Munich), and Lucy Neal (Transition Town Tooting), and others. Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 10.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m., £15 (freelancers), £25 (organisations). Contact:

www.surveymonkey.com/s/Emergence_Eginiad_Taliesin

Monday 17 January

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

2010

Tuesday 21 December

Garden of Awen presents: Soul of the Earth. Come and celebrate the launch of the Awen anthology of eco-spiritual poetry on the night of the winter solstice with poetry, music, and dance. Live performances from a glittering ensemble of top-quality performance poets: Aidan Andrew Dun; Karen E-Shelton; Rose Flint; Dawn Gorman; Alyson Halett; Paul Matthews: Margie McCallum; Kevan Manwaring; Jehanne Mehta: Gabriel Millar; Helen Moore; Jay Ramsay; Lynne Wycherley; live drumming from Hereward & Jay. Vivid, contemporary voices that dare to explore a spiritual dimension to life on Earth. Chapel Arts Centre, Bath. 7.30 p.m. for 8 p.m. £5 on door (entry entitles you to £5 discount on the book on the night). Soul of the Earth is edited by Jay Ramsay and published by Awen. RRP £11.99. Special launch price £10. www.awenpublications.co.uk

Monday 20 December

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Friday 26 November

The Celts Are Coming. From a time and place where the veil is thin between this world and the otherworld … from the shores of a silvery sea, the heart of the wildwood, the glimmer of autumn twilight, the bravery of battle … Michael Loader and Anthony Nanson return to enchant us with stories from Celtic mythology. The Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre, Taunton. 7.30–9.15 p.m. £8 (concessions £6). Tickets: 01823 283244, www.thebrewhouse.net

Monday 15 November

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Monday 18 October

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Friday 24 September

Greek Tales – Old and New

From ‘Orpheus and Eurydice’ to ‘The Girl Who Went to War’, and more, Fire Springs storytellers Kirsty Hartsiotis and Anthony Nanson tell ancient myths and modern folktales from Greece, exploring the resonances that ring across the centuries and drawing upon anecdotes of their own travels through the mythscape of that country. The Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre, Taunton. 7.30–9.15 p.m. £8 (concessions £6). Tickets: 01823 283244, www.thebrewhouse.net

Monday 20 September

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Thursday 16 September to Sunday 19 September

Tales to Sustain – ‘Silence, Stillness, Community, Sitting with Uncertainty’. We’re facing changing and challenging times. The world is becoming a new and unfamiliar place. As storytellers and environmental artists what can we do? Can we find ways of using our skills and stories to make a positive contribution to the changes ahead? This is the fifth annual gathering of people working with these issues: a chance to be sustained, recharged, inspired, and to share good practice. There will be facilitated sessions as well as time to just be. Venue: Rookery Farm, in North Somerset, a beautiful tranquil six-acre paradise with gardens, lakes, and secret nooks and crannies. Accommodation: camping with compost loos and running water, plus a few indoor spaces. Locally sourced organic food. Beautiful workshop and contemplative spaces: yurts, tipis, and the land. £175. Early booking is essential, since places are limited to 30. Contact: Jane Flood 07825 296554, wordsandwebs@talk21.com

Wednesday 1 September to Saturday 4 September

Environmental Change – Cultural Change. A joint conference of the Association for the Study of Literature and the Environment UK and the European Association for the Study of Literature, Culture and the Environment, organised by the Department of European Studies and Modern Languages at the University of Bath, with assistance from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and the Institute for Sustainable Energy and the Environment, and from Bath Spa University. Plenary speakers will include Sidney Dobrin, Georgina Endfield, Robert Macfarlane, Timo Maran and Robert Watson. Contact: Carolina Salter, I-SEE Office, University of Bath, School of Management, iseeoffice@management.bath.ac.uk, http://www.bath.ac.uk/esml/conferences/e-c-c-c/

Friday 27 August to Monday 30 August

Festival of the Tree – at Westonbirt Arboretum – celebrating trees and their many uses. Visitors will be able to watch an international team of master carvers transforming 24 tonnes of sustainably felled Westonbirt wood into intricate artworks in the Sculptree display, culminating in a fundraising auction for the charity Tree Aid. Crafts, furniture, sculpture, and jewellery stalls. Tree team demonstrations and workshops from some of the country’s best craftspeople. Family activities include becoming a scientist for the day in Westonbirt’s Laboratree tipi, and storytelling from Fire Springs. Normal admission prices apply, but free admission for children under 18. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact: 01666 880147, forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt, westonbirt@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

Tuesday 24 August

Children’s Activity Day – Berkeley Castle. Children’s activities all day with storytelling for all the family from Fire Springs. Contact: 01453 810332; www.berkeley-castle.com

Tuesday 17 August

Children’s Activity Day – Berkeley Castle. Children’s activities all day with storytelling for all the family from Fire Springs. Contact: 01453 810332; www.berkeley-castle.com

Monday 16 August

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Thursday 12 August

Stroud Transition Tales. Come and meet Steph Bradley as she calls in at Stroud on her odyssey on foot around the Transition Towns of England. Hear about her inspiring journey. Listen to stories from the Stroud Transition Tales group. Play the Quest interactive community game (numbers permitting). And eat, drink, and be merry. Star Anise Arts Cafe, Stroud. 7.00–9.30pm. Food and drink for sale. Donation appreciated towards room hire. Contact: Fiona 01453 834793.

Wednesday 11 August

A Twist in the Tale – at Bath Folk Festival. From folksong it’s a short hop into bed with a folktale and you're never quite sure what you might find there. Bath’s legendary wordsmiths Fire Springs are back, ensemble, with a feast of stories and songs of the outré and yarns with a twist. Back to a place where Conal Crovi tells tales within tales within tales … and Teig O’Kane has a problem with a talkative corpse … and then there's the one about this fine woman who has a good need to be a man. Add a powerful voice and brilliant guitarist singing a story or two in song and it all adds up to a evening of guaranteed twists, turns, tunes and tales. 7.30–9.30 p.m. Gallery Room, St James Wine Vaults, Bath, £5 (concessions £3). Tickets: 01225 463362, info@inu-music.com, boxoffice@bathfestivals.org.uk

Tuesday 10 August

Children’s Activity Day – Berkeley Castle. Children’s activities all day with storytelling for all the family from Fire Springs. Contact: 01453 810332; www.berkeley-castle.com

Tuesday 3 August

Children’s Activity Day – Berkeley Castle. Children’s activities all day with storytelling for all the family from Fire Springs. Contact: 01453 810332; www.berkeley-castle.com

Thursday 29 July

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Monday 19 July

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Friday 2 to Sunday 4 July

Beyond the Border – International Storytelling Festival. Britain’s leading festival of storytelling returns to St Donats Castle on the South Wales coast for another spectacular weekend featuring storytellers, singers, poets, musicians, writers, and artists from around the globe. This year’s programme includes ‘In the Footsteps of Marco Polo’ - storytellers and musicians from Italy, Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, and ancient Babylon – as well as stories from Celtic Britain, Africa and the Caribbean, Traveller’s Tales, Stories & Food, outdoor concerts in the Blue Garden, indoor concerts in the magnificent Bradenstoke Hall, and much more. Anthony will take part in the Tales to Sustain programme hosted by Eric Maddern on the Saturday afternoon. Tickets: (0)1446 799100; www.beyondtheborder.com

Thursday 24 June

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Monday 21 June

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Friday 4 June

Shamanic Dreamtime. Dive into the stirring soundscape of tabla and didgeridoo from Tim Simenauer (Dragonsly, Goma) and Sam Bloomfield (Phoenix), jewelled with stories from the Australian dreamtime told by Anthony Nanson. Performed in the round and followed by an opportunity for creative response – and the earthy delights of Australian cuisine from the Star Anise kitchen. 7.00 pm: refreshments on sale in the cafe. 7.30 pm: performance starts across the courtyard in the British School. 8.45 pm: food on sale back in the cafe. Performance £6 (£4 concessions). Food pay per dish. Star Anise Arts Cafe, Painswick Inn, Gloucester Street, Stroud. Contact: 01453 840021.

Thursday 27 May

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Monday 17 May

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Friday 14 to Saturday 15 May

George Ewart Evans Centre for Storytelling Fourth Annual Symposium – ‘Story and Science’. The symposium includes provocations by Dr Tim Boon (Chief Curator, Science Museum), Dr Steve Killick (Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Cwm Taf NHS Trust and StoryWorks Associate), and Professor Mark Brake (freelance author, broadcaster, futurist, and communicator of science) and an evening of performances by Pat Ryan, Louie Jenkins, and Emily Underwood-Lee. £30. ATRiuM, Cardiff School of Creative and Cultural Industries, Adam Street, Cardiff. www.glam.ac.uk/storytelling

Sunday 9 May

Songs of Praise – from Bath, featuring Anthony Nanson and the Bath Storytelling Circle. BBC1. 4.30 p.m. (Check the exact time because it seems to be a moveable feast.)

Sunday 2 to Monday 3 May

Butterfly House Opening – Berkeley Castle. Children’s activities all day with storytelling for all the family from Fire Springs. Contact: 01453 810332; www.berkeley-castle.com

Wednesday 28 April

FolkTales – featuring music from Kid Carpet and Electric Alice plus stories from Saikat, Anthony Nanson, and Alex Michelson – at the Scout Hut, Redcliff Backs, Bristol. 8.00 p.m. £4 on the door. Further details: www.myspace.com/folkhut

Thursday 22 April

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Monday 19 April

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Monday 15 March

Bath Storytelling Circle – with film crew from the BBC. Upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Thursday 25 February

Saint and Sinners. Wander across oceans with the Good and the Bad … challenge the gods, the lurking kraken and the bloodthirsty buccaneer … Hear the Sirens’ call and reach the island … where paradise, punishment, the underworld, or a welcome homecoming may await . Tales told by Michael Loader and Anthony Nanson. Brewhouse Theatre, Taunton. £8. 8.00 p.m. Tickets: 01823 283244.

Thursday 25 February

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Monday 15 February

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Thursday 28 January

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Monday 18 January

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

2009

Monday 21 December

Bath Storytelling Circle – 10th anniversary session. Upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Monday 7 December

Winter’s Turning. Pint of View – December special of this community discussion event hosted by MBC. Midwinter is the turning point of the seasons. Christmas celebrates a turning point in history. And we may be living through another turning point as the earth’s climate changes gear. Fire Springs storytellers Anthony Nanson and David Metcalfe offer some stories – and music – to invite quality discussion about these pivotal times through which we live. Black Horse, Amberley, near Stroud. 7.30 p.m. for 8.00 p.m. Contact: Jane 01453 872818.

Saturday 28 November

Heaven’s Gate: the first Stroud Festival of Poetry, Music & Storytelling – on William Blake’s birthday. Featuring: Robin Williamson with Bina Williamson, Subterraneans front man Jude Rawlins, Kirsten Morrison, poem-lyric fusions from guitarist John Gibbens and bassist Armorel Weston (The Children), Phoenix trio Jay Ramsay, Gabriel Millar, and Ella Bloomfield (with Sam on didgeridoo), Paul Matthews, Aidan Andrew Dun, Niall McDevitt, Christopher Twigg (Chicken in the Woods), green goddess Helen Moore, Dennis Gould and Jeff Cloves, Adam Horovitz and Rick Vick, Kevan Manwaring and Anthony Nanson (Fire Springs), and Irina Kuzminsky (including the launch of her book Dancing with Dark Goddesses). Subscription Rooms, Stroud. 8.00 p.m. till midnight, with two intervals. £15. Tickets: 01453 760991

Friday 27 November

What a Performance! The D. K. Angus Launch – a small collection of Dave's words, lyrics and more, readings from the same, opportunities to buy (proceeds to CND), and music of that ilk. Plus stories from Anthony Nanson. And hopefully a song or two … are you listening, Beth? Gallery Room, St James Wine Vaults, Bath. 8.00 p.m. Donation. Contact: Richard 01225 420683.

Thursday 26 November

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Monday 16 November

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Sunday 1 November

Garden of Awen. An enchanting evening of the finest spoken word: poetry, storytelling, monologue, song, acoustic music, and other Arcadian delights. This month’s theme: Death and Rebirth. Featuring guitar-shaman/songsmith James Hollingsworth, ecobard Anthony Nanson, poet Marion Faulks, balladeer David Metcalfe, and more. Chapel Arts Centre, Bath. 7.30 p.m. for 8.00 p.m. £5 special opening night price. Licensed bar. Contact: 01225 461700, bookings@chapelarts.org, www.chapelarts.org, www.awenpublications.co.uk

Friday 30 October

What a Performance! Spoken word, music, and verbal antics. Storytelling from Kirsty Hartsiotis. Performance of Dragon Dance by Kevan Manwaring. Special feature: The Poetry of Moyra Caldecott, Bath's premier writer; readings by WAP!ers and Moyra herself. Gallery Room, St James Wine Vaults, Bath. 8.00 p.m. Donation. Contact: Richard 01225 420683.

Thursday 22 October

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Monday 19 October

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Friday 2 to Sunday 4 October

Exotic Excursions – Othona Community, Burton Bradstock, near Bridport. Wondrous voyages to unknown islands form some of the most alluring tales in the mythology of both the Celts and the Greeks. They strike us now, not just as travelogues, but as explorations of the imaginative/spiritual realm where the island can be an image of paradise. How do they speak to us – and for us – today? Anthony Nanson leads a storytelling-based workshop in which we follow the likes of Brendan and Bran, Odysseus and Jason. Anthony’s own odyssey has included a recent expedition to islands in the South Pacific. His book of short stories Exotic Excursions enlivens the Othona bookstall. Anthony will also feature in our One World Worship on Sunday evening. Course fee: £22. For accommodation costs, contact Othona: 01308 897130; mail@othona-bb.org.uk; http://www.othona-bb.org.uk

Wednesday 23 September

Bath Writers Workshop. Jay Ramsay and Anthony Nanson feature as guest writers in conversation. 7–9 p.m., New Inn, Monmouth Place, Bath. Contact: Kevan 01225 334204

Monday 21 September

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Tuesday 15 September

Tidal Shift. Anthony Nanson and Kevan Manwaring present poet Mary Palmer’s final collection. Join us in the shop as we hear her poems brought to life by her friends. Iona Community Shop, Iona. 7.30 p.m. Entry free.

Wednesday 9 September

Stroud Story Circle meets at the Bear at Rodborough, near Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Tuesday 8 September

Tidal Shift - the launch of Mary Palmer's posthumous Tidal Shift: Selected Poems, from Awen Publications, with readings from friends and family plus acoustic music. Profits from the book will go to Dorothy House Hospice, where Mary spent her final days. Waterstone’s, Bath. 6.30 for 7.00 p.m. Free. Tel: 01225 448515. www.awenpublications.co.uk

Sunday 30 August

A Cascade of Words and Music. Celebrate the Centenary of the Poetry

Society at Prior Park Landscape Garden, Bath. Three 45-minute sessions of readings and music in the Wilderness. Featuring: Nikki Bennett, Rose Flint, June Hall, Kevan Manwaring, Helen Moore, Crysse Morrison, Anthony Nanson, Peter Alfred Please, Alan Summers, Duncan Tweedale. There will also be open-mike sessions, with free admission for anyone who brings a nature-themed poem to recite. 1.30 p.m. Contact: 01225 833422, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/priorpark, www.poetrysociety.org.uk/content/events/bath

Monday 17 August

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Wednesday 12 August

Stroud Story Circle meets at the Bear at Rodborough, near Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Thursday 29 July to Sunday 2 August

Big Green Gathering. The world's premier and award-winning green festival. Huge array of events, including inter alia: Kevan Manwaring, ‘Lost Islands: Inventing Avalon, Destroying Eden’, talk; Anthony Nanson and Kevan Manwaring from Fire Springs, ‘An Ecobardic Manifesto: A Vision for the Arts in a Time of Environmental Crisis’, talk incorporating stories and poetry; and two Bardic Circles with performances by David Reakes, Tim Hall, Anthony Nanson, Dearbhaile Bailey, Kevan Manwaring, and Nathan Lewis Williams. Fernhill Farm, Cheddar. Contact: 01458 834629, info@big-green-gathering.com, www.big-green-gathering.com

Monday 20 July

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Wednesday 8 July

Stroud Story Circle meets at the Bear at Rodborough, near Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Friday 3 to Saturday 4 July

4th Olympus Storytelling Festival, Tempe, Greece. Performances and papers on the theme ‘Fairy Tales and Myths’. Anthony Nanson will present a paper on ‘The Storytelling Imagination as Catalyst of Tolerance and Imagination’, run a workshop on ‘How to Bring a Story to Life in the Heart and Imagination’, and perform ‘The Tale of Eithne’. Mainly Greek language. Contact: graikos@otenet.gr

Monday 15 June

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Wednesday 10 June

Stroud Story Circle meets at the Bear at Rodborough, near Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kirsty 01453 840887

Monday 18 May

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Wednesday 13 May

Stroud Story Circle meets at the Bear at Rodborough, near Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Thursday 30 April to Sunday 3 May

Beltane Ecobardic Mini-Fest: a gathering of storytellers, poets and musicians creating for the earth. There’s a growing band of musicians, poets, storytellers, and comedians – performers of the bardic arts - who are passionate about lending their voices to the movement for sustainability and earth care. Cae Mabon and the Tales to Sustain network invite you to Cae Mabon in Snowdonia at this magical time of year to explore with others performance that engages audiences and energises action: in a word, to transform. Limited to 30 people, so book soon. Opportunity to share work in progress, to appreciate, comment upon and learn from others active in this field. Also an opportunity to build upon ideas outlined in An Ecobardic Manifesto published by Fire Springs last year. A fertile ground to seed ideas and springboard projects at this critical juncture in planetary history. For those who can make it for the Thursday there will be a Beltane celebration. The mini-fest proper will begin at noon on the Friday with lunch. £110 (for 3 nights) including excellent vegetarian food and exquisite eco-cabin accommodation, or £80 if only coming for two nights. Contact: Eric 01286 871542; eric@fachwen.org

Monday 20 April

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Wednesday 8 April

Stroud Story Circle meets at the Bear at Rodborough, near Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Wednesday 25 March

Transition Stories. This will be the first meeting for all those interested in using stories to illuminate and emphasise the Transition messages. We are living in a time of massive upheaval and the time is ripe to find new stories to live by. If we can tell a different story maybe we can break the spell we have been living under. You don't have to tell a story unless you want to. Just bring your friends and come and listen. 7.30 p.m. Star Anise Arts Cafe, Gloucester Street, Stroud. Contact: Fiona 01453 834793

Friday 20 March

Places of Truth: an ecobardic showcase. Celebrating the launch of Places of Truth: journeys into sacred wilderness, a new collection of poems by Stroud-based poet and psychotherapist Jay Ramsay, on World Storytelling Day and Earth Day. Hosted by Kevan Manwaring, publisher of Awen Publications. Including place-based storytelling, performance poetry, and acoustic music from: Mary Palmer (Iona), Helen Moore (Selected Ecopoems and Hope and the Magic Martian), Peter Alfred Please (Clattinger: an alphabet of signs in nature), Anthony Nanson (Exotic Excursions and Storytelling and Ecology), Richard Selby (The Fifth Quarter), and David Metcalfe (singer-guitarist with Fire Springs). 7.00 p.m. Waterstones, Milsom Street, Bath. Tickets £3 from Waterstones. Refreshments provided. Tel: 01225 448515. www.awenpublications.co.uk

Monday 16 March

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Wednesday 11 March

Stroud Story Circle meets at the Bear at Rodborough, near Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Monday 16 February

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Wednesday 11 February

Stroud Story Circle meets at the Bear at Rodborough, near Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Wednesday 28 January

FolkTales – featuring Simon Airey, Anthony Nanson, and other storytellers and musicians – at the Scout Hut, on the waterside near the Ostrich pub in central Bristol. 8.00 p.m. £3 on the door. Further details: www.myspace.com/folkhut

Thursday 20 January

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Monday 19 January

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Friday 16 January 2009

Drive the Cold Winter Away – a celebration of Celtic song and storytelling – with Roy Searle, founder of the Northumbria Community, storyteller Anthony Nanson, and band led by Bobbie and Richard Johns, musicians who’ve played at Greenbelt and Spring Harvest. Entry £4. Star Anise Arts Café, Gloucester Street, Stroud. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Contact: 01453 761938

2008

Thursday 18 December

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 7.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Monday 15 December

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 December

Christmas at Compton Verney. Fire Springs storytellers take you on a magical winter journey through our collections. Sessions run 12.45 p.m., 2.15 p.m., and 3.30 p.m. Contact: 01926 645500

Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December

Christmas at Compton Verney. Fire Springs storytellers take you on a magical winter journey through our collections. Sessions run 12.45 p.m., 2.15 p.m., and 3.30 p.m. Contact: 01926 645500

Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November

Christmas at Compton Verney. Fire Springs storytellers take you on a magical winter journey through our collections. Sessions run 12.45 p.m., 2.15 p.m., and 3.30 p.m. Contact: 01926 645500

Saturday 29 November

Christmas Fair – including storytelling throughout the day with Anthony Nanson. Yate Heritage Centre, Church Road, Yate. 10.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Contact: 01454 862200

Friday 28 November

Dancing for the Earth. On William Blake’s birthday come and celebrate the Earth with a cabaret of inspiring Earth-centred music, storytelling, and performed poetry from Kirsten Morrison, Helen Moore, Phoenix, and Fire Springs, plus the launch of An Ecobardic Manifesto, and dancing with deejay Christina McLaughlin. British School (in the Painswick Inn complex), Gloucester Street, Stroud. 7.30–10.30 p.m. Doors open 7.00. Entry £10. Contact: Jay 01453 759436 or Anthony 01453 840887

Thursday 20 November

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 7.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Monday 17 November

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Saturday 15 November

Exotic Excursions and Lost Islands. Live storytelling from Anthony Nanson and Kevan Manwaring based on their books Exotic Excursions (Awen) and Lost Islands (Heart of England Press), followed by discussion. Kaydee Bookshop, Moor Lane, Clitheroe. Performance begins 2.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kaydee 01200 422698 or Anthony 01453 840887

Saturday 8 November

A Feast of Friends. A dynamic evening of spoken poetry, storytelling, and music including the didgeridoo; to warm your heart and soul and quicken your spirit. With Jay Ramsay, Gabriel Millar, Ella Bloomfield, Sam Bloomfield, Anthony Nanson, Kirsty Hartsiotis, and Geoff Mead. The Abbey, Sutton Courtenay, near Abingdon. Contact: 01235 847401, admin@theabbey.uk.com. 7.30 p.m. Entry £8

Friday 7 November

Phoenix and Fire Springs. Poets Jay Ramsay, Gabriel Millar, and Ella Whiting-Bloomfield will be joined by the amazing Fire Springs storytelling team, including Anthony Nanson, Kevan Manwaring, and singer-guitarist David Metcalfe, with guests Mary Palmer, Geoff Mead, and Sam Bloomfield (didgeridoo). A mid-winter fireside feast to remember. Ruskin Mill, Nailsworth. 8.00 p.m. £5/£4. Contact: 01453 837537 or 07977 174729

Friday 31 October

Gala Dinner and After Dark Tales. St Michaels Restaurant, Painswick, near Cheltenham, are celebrating Halloween this year with a three-course meal and professional storytelling from Fire Springs, who will delight, enchant, and maybe scare you with their ghostly tales. 7.00 p.m. for 7.30 p.m. £40.00 per person inclusive. Contact: 01452 814 555

Monday 20 October

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Thursday 16 October

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 7.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Thursday 9 to Sunday 12 October

Tales to Sustain. A weekend of peer consultancy and development in the field of environmental story-work, convened by Eric Maddern, Jon Cree, Malcolm Green, and Alida Gersie, to promote awareness of environmental issues and energise people to act for positive change. It will be a practical weekend of brainstorming, skills development, and mutual consultancy in which everyone will participate. It is for people already working in this area who want to give and to receive support and inspiration to enhance their effectiveness. Cae Mabon, Fachwen, Llanberis, Gwynedd. Cost £90. Contact: eric@fachwen.org

Monday 15 September

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: David 01225 482170

Saturday 30 August

The National Trust presents Shortwood Open Day, Haresfield Estate, Whitehill, near Stroud. 10.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Story walks with Fire Springs at 10.00 a.m., 12.00 noon, 2.00 p.m., and 4.00 p.m. (not suitable for children under 5). Plus craft activities, trails, games, information about Restoration Project. Entry free. Contact: 01452 814213.

Free fun for all. All children must be supervised by an accompanying adult

Monday 18 August

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kevan 01225 334204

Wednesday 23 July

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 7.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Monday 21 July

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kevan 01225 334204

Wednesday 9 July

Frome Storytelling Competition hosted by Frome Story Circle at the Garden Cafe, Stony Street, Frome. 7.30 p.m. Entry: £3.00 on the door for competitors and audience. Contact: Lesley 01373 471784, lesleyhughes2007@googlemail.com

Wednesday 18 June

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 7.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Monday 16 June

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kevan 01225 334204

Friday 6 to Sunday 8 June

Life Writing Weekend at the Kingcombe Centre, Toller Porcorum, Dorset. This workshop is ideal for people writing autobiographies, oral history, biography, and interviewing family members. It will give you the skills you need to begin or revise a project - perhaps a record for your family or a gift to the local library, perhaps a contribution to a book or a full-length manuscript. All you need are your memories and a sharp pencil! Tutors: Mimi Thebo and Anthony Nanson. Contact: 01300 320684

Thursday 5 June

Spirit of Place. An evening of storytelling, poetry, and music celebrating the magic of special places with local author-performers Jay Ramsay (Out of Time: Poems 1998-2008, PS Avalon), Anthony Nanson (Exotic Excursions, Awen), Richard Selby (The Fifth Quarter, Awen), Kevan Manwaring (Lost Islands, Heart of Albion Press), and music from
David Metcalfe (Fire Springs singer-guitarist). 7.30pm for 7.45pm. Entry £4 on the door. Star Anise Arts Cafe, Gloucester Street, Stroud.
Venue: 01453 761938. Anthony: 01453 840887

Saturday 24 May

Bath Fringe presents An Evening of Awen. Inspired poetry, storytelling, and music from Awen authors: Anthony Nanson (Exotic Excursions), Mary Palmer (Iona), Richard Selby (The Fifth Quarter), Marko Gallaidhe (The Winged Unicorn), and Kevan Manwaring (Lost Islands) plus special guests Jay Ramsay (Out of Time - Poems 1998-2008) and David Metcalfe (Fire Springs singer-guitarist). 7.00 p.m. The Secret Theatre, United Reformed Church, Argyle St, Bath (just off Pulteney Bridge). Tickets £8/£6 from Bath Festivals Box Office, Abbey Green, 01225 443362, boxoffice@bathfestivals.org.uk, www.bathfringe.co.uk

Monday 19 May

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kevan 01225 334204

Sunday 18 May

Launch of Kevan Manwaring’s Lost Islands (published by Heart of England Press) at Inventions Arts Centre, Bath. Introductory talk by Anthony Nanson. Plus music. 8.00 p.m. Entry free

Wednesday 14 May

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 7.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Wednesday 30 April

FolkTales - featuring Martin Maudsley, Anthony Nanson, and four musical acts – at the Scout Hut, on the waterside near the Ostrich pub in central Bristol. 8.00 p.m. £3 on the door. Further details: www.myspace.com/folkhut

Wednesday 23 April

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 7.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Monday 21 April

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kevan 01225 334204

Wednesday 16 April

Awen Group Book Launch. Mr B's Emporium of Reading Delights, 14-15 John St, Bath (behind Jollys). Three books will be launched, by Fire Springs storytellers Anthony Nanson (Exotic Excursions) and Richard Selby (The Fifth Quarter) and the performance poet Mary Palmer (Iona), all published by Awen Publications. The authors will talk about their books and be available to sign copies. 6.30 p.m. Entry free. Arrive early to be sure of wine and nibbles. Mr B’s: 01225 33 11 55, www.mrbsemporium.com; Awen: 01225 334204, www.awenpublications.co.uk

Monday 17 March

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kevan 01225 334204

Saturday 8 March

Two Sides to a Story - a storytelling workshop with an ecological theme. The world is in crisis. Every year there are more and more people chasing the land, the food, the wealth they need. Which means conflict between people – and conflict too between people and wildlife. What can storytelling do to help? It can stretch people’s imagination! In this practical workshop we’ll explore how stories can help us to see the contrasting perspectives of people in conflict over resources – and also to imagine what it might take to peacefully satisfy the needs of everyone involved, including the ecology. We’ll work first with some traditional tales, and then tackle the trickier business of some real-life stories of competing purposes and their impact on the environment. Led by Anthony Nanson, presented by A Bit Crack. 9.30 am to 4.30 pm, Rising Sun Country Park, Tyne & Wear. Cost: £75 (£50 concessions). No previous experience required. Further information and bookings: Malcolm Green 0191 265 3224, trokki@phonecoop.coop, www.abitcrack.com

Wednesday 27 February

Bath Literature Festival presents: Storytelling from Fire Springs again (but different stories!). 4.30-5.15 pm, Bath Central Library. Suitable for all ages from 8 up. Free but ticket required: 01225 463362. www.bathlitfest.org.uk

Tuesday 26 February

Bath Literature Festival presents: Storytelling from Fire Springs

4.30-5.15 pm, Bath Central Library. Suitable for all ages from 5 up. Free but ticket required: 01225 463362. www.bathlitfest.org.uk

Monday 18 February

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kevan 01225 334204

Friday 1 February to Monday 4 February

King Arthur at Candlemass – Othona Community, Burton Bradstock, near Bridport. Master storyteller Anthony Nanson returns to Othona, this time to explore Britain's greatest story: the epic of King Arthur. Through diverse storytelling activities we'll seek out what this cycle of tales – of sorcery and romance, earthly paradise and the Holy Grail – can mean for us and our world today. Anthony will perform Tales of King Arthur on the Saturday evening and also contribute to One World Worship on Sunday evening. Early departure from Sunday 2.30p.m. is possible but stopover to Monday morning advised. Course fee: £20. For accommodation costs, contact Othona: 01308 897130; mail@othona-bb.org.uk; http://www.othona-bb.org.uk

Wednesday 30 January

Stroud Story Circle at a private venue in Stroud. 7.30 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Diana 01453 750009 or Anthony 01453 840887

Monday 21 January

Bath Storytelling Circle upstairs at the Raven, Bath. 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. Entry free. Contact: Kevan 01225 334204