The AUTUMN FESTIVAL of Norfolk returns with its vibrant and diverse programme, presenting a variety of specially commissioned events, including a tribute screening, dynamic dance performances, engaging conversations with renowned personalities, multicultural celebrations of music, and a theatrical production that will transport you back to 1930s high society.
From drama and music, to visual arts and unique experiences, the festival spans venues across our fabulous county and continues to extend from its traditional home in Norwich Cathedral’s Hostry to other arts venues in the region. You can catch all that is happening from 14th September 2024 through to 29th November 2024.
Stash Kirkbride, Co-Founder and Artistic Director said “We are eagerly anticipating sharing these inspiring events with you. Along with our extensive Guest Speaker Programme, we’re continuing to support opportunities for engagement across the four Festival Signature Projects: The Norfolk Arts Awards, Total Ensemble: Arts Initiative, The African Choir of Norfolk and The Norfolk Actors Company into the season ahead and beyond. Join us in celebrating the creativity and talent that make Norfolk unique.”
The events happening:
Saturday 14th September, 7:30pm
The Blake Studio, Norwich School
Tickets £15/£12 Concessions.
Opening the festival this autumn is a recital screening of TS Eliot’s Four Quartets, as a special tribute to, and celebration of, the remarkable contributions of the late Peter Wilson MBE. The evening promises to be a profound artistic experience with a chance to reflect and connect with fellow attendees, a year on from his passing.
Simon Schama in Conversation with John Wilson
Saturday 28th September, 1:00pm
UEA DRAMA STUDIO, University of East Anglia
Tickets £20/£18 Concessions.
Renowned Historian Simon Schama will join BBC’s This Cultural Life Presenter John Wilson in conversation at The University of East Anglia, Drama Studio on the afternoon of Saturday 28th September. They’ll cover Simon’s own history, looking at influences and inspirations, right up to the fascinating content of his most recent book ‘Foreign Bodies: Pandemics, Vaccines and the Health of Nations’ which was published in the UK last year.
Jonathan Porritt in Conversation with Tahira Yaqoob
Saturday 28th September, 3:00pm
UEA DRAMA STUDIO, University of East Anglia
Tickets £20/£18 Concessions.
Do not miss this in-depth profile of one of the UK’s leading minds on climate change, led by TAHIRA YAQOOB Freelance journalist & University of East Anglia Graduate 2024. “This really is the last chance saloon for avoiding climate-driven societal collapse. When Jonathon Porritt says this, the world has to listen.” Rupert Read.
50 min interview + 20 min Q&A and Book Signing.
Total Ensemble: Arts Initiative presents Dance into the Fall 2024
Saturday 19th October, 7:30pm
The Blake Studio, Norwich School
Tickets £12/£10 Concessions (includes post-event drinks & social).
Dance enthusiasts are in for a treat with the Dance into the Fall 2024. This event features performances that blend contemporary dance with inclusive practices,
ensuring a captivating experience for everyone.
Paul Jackson The Realms of Elsewhere
Sunday 27th October, 7pm
Anteros Arts, Fye Bridge Street, Norwich NR3 1LJ
Tickets £14.
Paul Jackson returns with the third instalment of his fantasy world series, set in Elsewhere. This event at Anteros Arts will delve into the imaginative realms that
Jackson has created, offering a unique and captivating experience for fans of fantasy literature.
The Norfolk Actors Company presents The Philadelphia Story
Monday 28th October – Saturday 2nd November, 7:30pm
The Hostry, Norwich Cathedral
Tickets have varied options outlined below:
28th & 29th October £12/£10 Concessions
30th October (Gala Night) £18/£16 Concessions
31st October & 1st November £17/£15 Concessions
2nd November £18/£16 Concessions (includes pre & post-show drinks).
The Norfolk Actors Company brings the classic play, The Philadelphia Story, to life at The Hostry. With a special Gala night on 30th October that includes pre and post-show drinks and a chance to meet the cast. This production promises to be a highlight of the festival.
Guest Speakers.
High-profile guest speakers at the Autumn Festival of Norfolk will include:
Lord and Lady Dannatt
Nicholas Witchell
Carlos Acosta
Don Warrington
Lord & Lady Dannatt in Conversation with BBC’s Nicholas Witchell
Saturday 2nd November, 1pm
The Hostry, Norwich Cathedral
Tickets £20/£18 Concessions.
Enjoy an insightful conversation with Lord and Lady Dannatt, interviewed by BBC’s Nicholas Witchell. This session will delve into their extraordinary lives and
contributions, offering a rare glimpse into their personal and professional journeys.
Nicholas Witchell In Conversation with BBC’s Susie Fowler-Watt
Saturday, 2nd November, 3pm-4:30pm
The Hostry, Norwich Cathedral NR1 4DH
Tickets £20/£18 Concessions.
Following his earlier session, Nicholas Witchell will switch roles to be interviewed by BBC’s Susie Fowler-Watt. This engaging conversation will explore his extensive career in journalism and broadcasting.
Carlos Acosta In Conversation with BBC’s John Wilson
Sunday 3rd November, 1pm
The Hostry, Norwich Cathedral
Tickets £25/£22 Concessions.
Legendary dancer Carlos Acosta will sit down with BBC’s John Wilson to discuss his illustrious career, his artistic influences, and his contributions to the world of dance. This promises to be an inspiring and enlightening session for dance lovers.
Don Warrington in Conversation with BBC’s John Wilson
Sunday 3rd November, 3pm
The Hostry, Norwich Cathedral
Tickets £20/£18 Concessions.
Born in Trinidad, Don Warrington is one of the UK’s groundbreaking actors of our time, best known for his role as Phillip in Rising Damp, and most recently enjoying popularity in the BBC’s hugely enjoyable Death In Paradise. Join the BBC Radio 4’s This Cultural Life presenter John Wilson as he profiles Don’s creative journey in the arts over many fascinating decades.
The African Choir of Norfolk 4th Annual Gala Concert
Saturday, 16th November, 7:30pm
Norwich Playhouse
Tickets £20/£18 Concessions.
The African Choir of Norfolk, one of the festival’s signature projects, returns with their annual gala concert. This vibrant evening will feature a range of African-
inspired songs and performances, celebrating the rich cultural heritage and musical traditions of the continent.
Agatha Christie: Murder In the Studio
Sunday 17th November, 7:30pm
Maddermarket Theatre, St John’s Alley
Tickets £18/£16 Concessions (includes post-show jazz performance with pianist Simon Brown in the theatre bar).
Agatha Christie fans are in for a treat with a live performance of Murder In the Studio at the Maddermarket Theatre. The evening will conclude with a jazz
performance by Simon Brown in the theatre bar, making it a truly memorable event.
The Kanneh-Mason Family In Concert
Sunday 24th November, 7:30pm
The Blake Studio, Norwich School
Tickets £22/£20 Concessions (includes post-concert drinks & meet the artists).
The acclaimed Kanneh-Mason family returns to perform a classical concert, showcasing their extraordinary musical talents. The evening, in association with
Norwich School, will include performances by Braimah, Konya and Mariatu, followed by an opportunity to meet the artists afterwards.
Hot Stove 3 Music and Poetry Evening
Friday 29th November, 7:30pm
Margo’s, Gorleston-On-Sea
Tickets £12.
Gorleston’s Margo’s Lounge will host Hot Stove 3 for an evening of jigs, reels, poetry, and guest readings. This lively event promises to be a fun and engaging
experience for all attendees.
For booking information see www.autumnfestivalofnorfolk.org.
Tickets can be bought from The AUTUMN FESTIVAL Box Office by calling 01603 598676 or in person at Norwich Theatre Royal.
Events at Maddermarket Theatre and Anteros Arts are bookable through the host venues.
Check event pages in the AUTUMN FESTIVAL of Norfolk brochure or online for more details.
