West Dorset

What's on in and around West Dorset

March 2008

Information supplied courtesy of West Dorset District Council & West Dorset Tourist Centres

EXHIBITIONS

07/02 – 09/03 Favourite Pieces Town Mill Galleries, Mill Lane, Lyme Regis. An exhibition by local artists of their own particular favourites. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am – 4pm. 01297 443579. www.townmill.org.uk

19/01 – 15/03 Peter Thursby : A Retrospective Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester. Sculptures, paintings and drawings dating from 1950 to 1990 by this distinguished RWA Academician. 01305 262735 www.dorsetcountymuseum.org

27/12 - 17/03 Lyme's Disappearing Farmland Lyme Regis Museum, Bridge Street , Lyme Regis, . An exhibition featuring Lyme's fields lost to development, supported by Lyme Regis Town Council. Museum open from 11am Wednesday - Sunday. 01297 443370. www.lymeregismuseum.co.uk

16/02 - 06/04 Elisabeth Frink Exhibition Sherborne House, Newland, Sherborne. "Works from the Archive" - an introduction to the work of this major 20th century British artist through sculpture, prints and drawings from her archive. Open Tuesday - Sunday 10.30am - 4.30pm (closed Easter Sunday). Admission free. 01935 816426. www.sherbornehouse.org.uk

15/03 - 13/04 Tangents Town Mill Galleries, Mill Lane, Lyme Regis. Exhibition by painter and sculptor Alastair Michie FRWA. Open Tuesday – Sunday 11am – 4pm.

21/03 - 29/03 Dorchester Art Club Spring Exhibition Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester. Dorchester Art Club Members' 49th Spring Exhibition. Open 10am - 5pm. Closed Sunday and closes at noon on final day. Admission free. 01305 269734. www.dorsetcountymuseum.org

REGULAR MARKETS

BRIDPORT Weekly Market in the Town Centre every Wednesday and Saturday, Farmers’ Market 2^nd Saturday in each month – Arts Centre 9.30am-2pm, West Dorset Country Market in the WI Hall, North Street every Saturday 9am-12 noon.

DORCHESTER Weekly Market in Fairfield Car Park, Weymouth Avenue, 8am – 3pm every Wednesday

Farmers’ Market 1^st Saturday in each month – Poundbury, 9am-1pm

SHERBORNE Pannier Market on the Parade every Thursday and Saturday; Country Market in Church Hall, Digby Road, Thursday mornings, 9.15am-11.15am; Farmers’ Market 3^rd Friday in each month – Cheap Street, 9am-1pm.

OWERMOIGNE Monthly market in the village hall 2^nd Saturday of the month, 10.30am - 12 noon. Homemade produce, bric a brac, plants, crafts, books. 01305 851633

FOSSIL WALKS

Lyme Regis Fossil walks with Dr Colin Dawes every Sunday at 1pm. No need to book – meet at the Old Forge Fossil Shop, Broad Street. Lasts approx. 2.5 hours. Adults £8, Children £5

Fossil walks at Lyme Bay with Brandon Lennon take place every Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Times vary according to tide and start from The Anchor, Cobb Gate. Private bookings available on other days. Tel. 07944 664757 for further details and to book. www.lymeregisfossilsforsale.co.uk/fossilwalks.htm

Fossil walks from Lyme Regis Museum Walks last approx. 2 hours – Adults £8, Children £5, including entrance to museum. Tel. 01297 443370 to book (essential) and for further details.

Fossil walks from Lyme Regis Fossil Shop Booking essential on 01297 442088

Charmouth Fossil hunting walks from the Heritage Coast Centre, Charmouth Walks last approx. 2 hours and include a 20 minute talk on fossils. £7 adults, £3 children. During March there is a Fossil Fantastic Weekend on 8^th & 9^th March (booking essential) plus walks over the Easter weekend - Friday 21^st at 10.30am, Saturday 22^nd at 11am, Sunday 23^rd at 11.30am and Monday 24^th at 12noon Tel. 01297 560772 or see www.charmouth.org.

EVENTS DURING MARCH

25/2- 01 Burton Bradstock Players - All for One Burton Bradstock Village Hall, Nr. Bridport, 7.30pm nightly. A swashbuckling musical play "All for One", loosley based on Dumas' "The Three Musketeers" performed by Burton Bradstock Players. Adults £6, children under 16 £4. 01308 897879.

28/2- 01 Last Tango in Frampton Frampton Village Hall, Frampton, Dorchester, 7pm. An evening of great entertainment - three brilliant one act comedies, 'Last Tango in Little Grimley' by David Tristram, 'Between Mouthfuls' and 'Gosforth's Fete' by Alan Ayckbourn. Tickets £4 (Thurs), £5 (Fri) or £6 (Sat). 01300 320607.

28/2 - 01 Release The Rhythm Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, Bridport, 7.30pm. Trapeze, singing, drama and dance all feature in this Artzone collaboration. Tickets £7 adults, £4 children and students. 01308 424204. www.bridport-arts.com

28/2 - 01 Symondsbury Village Players Chideock Village Hall, Chideock, Bridport, 7.30pm. A comedy by Kenneth Horne Tickets £5 each from The Trading Post, 74 South St, Bridport tel. 01308 425271 or 01308 867074.

01 Stoke Abbott Winter Games Stoke Abbott, Nr Beaminster. The first ever Stoke Abbott Winter Games in aid of the Village Hall funds and St John’s Ambulance. Main events include The Three Peaks Challenge, the Norway Lane Bike Challenge, and the children's Treasure Hunt (please see below for further details). There will be a spit roast and hot soup at the Village Hall from 12.30pm onwards for all-comers and a prize-giving ceremony at 1.15pm. 01308 867517. www.stokewintergames.blogspot.com

01 Stoke Abbott Treasure Hunt Stoke Abbott Nr Beaminster. Families can enter this children’s Treasure Hunt which starts at 11.30am and takes in village landmarks with a series of interesting clues and on-the-spot prizes. Entry fees are £2 per clue-sheet, payable on the day; no advance booking/registration required. In aid of the Village Hall funds and St John’s Ambulance. 01308 867517. www.stokewintergames.blogspot.com

01 The Three Peaks Challenge Stoke Abbott, Nr Beaminster. The Three Peaks Challenge is a challenging cross-country race for runners and ramblers across Lewesdon Hill, Waddon Hill and Gerrards Hill, the three landmarks which surround Stoke Abbott. Starting at 11am, there are cash prizes for the first and second male and female runners (£65 and £40 respectively) and ramblers (£50 and £25 respectively). Entry fees are £5 per adult, £10 for families (up to 4 people) and £3 for children and OAPs. Every entrant who successfully completes the Three Peaks Challenge will be presented with a commemorative certificate. Runners should be aged 12 or more; an adult must accompany children taking part in the ramble. In aid of the Village Hall funds and St John’s Ambulance. 01308 867517. www.stokewintergames.blogspot.com

01 Norway Lane Bike Challenge Stoke Abbott, Nr Beaminster. The Norway Lane Bike Challenge provides cyclists with the opportunity to compete in timed trials as part of the Stoke Abbott Winter Games. Compete on one of our bikes for the Challenge Shield (entry £5) or have a go on your own bike (entry £3). In aid of the Village Hall funds and St John’s Ambulance. 01308 867517. www.stokewintergames.blogspot.com

01 The Thomas Hardye School Imperial College Symphony Orchestra St Mary's Church, Edward Road, Dorchester, 7.30pm. Bizet L'Arlesienne Suite II; Stanford Songs of the Fleet ( Alistair Merry Baritone); Mahler Symphony No 1. Tickets £7.50 ( £2 students ) from The Thomas Hardye School, Harmony Music, Nicoll World Travel on door.

01 - 02 Lambing Weekend Kingston Maurward Nr. Dorchester. 01305 215003. www.kmc.ac.uk

01 Breakthrough Breast Cancer 'Crocus Walk' Starts from the Gaggle of Geese, Buckland Newton, 10am. A group of friends and walkers have organised a family ‘Crocus Walk’ to support the UK’s leading breast cancer charity. All are welcome! This is not a sponsored event but walkers are invited to donate to Breakthrough Breast Cancer Charity on the day. The Walk will be approximately 3 ½ miles long (shorter route available of approximately 2 ½ miles) and takes place on quiet roads, footpaths, bridleways and over stiles. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Well-behaved dogs are welcome and leads used where necessary. Finish time 11.30 (approximately) at The Gaggle of Geese, followed by tea, coffee or squash and homemade cakes. Adult and children’s raffles. 01300 345508. www.crocuswalk.org.uk

01 Afternoon Bingo Magistrates Room, Ground Floor, Corn Exchange, Dorchester, 2.45pm. Flyer, Snowball, Raffle, Tea & Coffee. All welcome, cash prizes. Organised by Dorchester District Scout Council in aid of local Scout Funds.

01 The Weatherbury Singers Come and Sing St George's Church, Fordington, Dorchester. Come and Sing Vivaldi Gloria, Schubert Massing, Stanford Beati Quorum Via. Registration 10am, performance 6pm. Conductor - Sir Peter Newson Smith Bt GTCL LTCL, organist - Christopher Dowie MA (oxon) LRAM ARCO. 07747610746.

02 Mothering Sunday at Seaton Tramway Seaton Tramway, Harbour Road, Seaton. Special lunch at the Tramstop Restaurant. Please tel. 01297 552717 for further details. 01297 552717. www.tram.co.uk

02 Ramblers Walk at Beaminster Yarn Barton Car Park Beaminster, 10.30am. 10 mile walk via Oxbridge and Loscombe. Please contact the organiser to confirm details. 01308 863206.

02 Mother's Day Lunch Kingston Maurward, Dorchester. 01305 215003.

02 Take Mum to Mummies! Amarna Centre, Allington Street, Dorchester, 10am – 5pm. What better way to celebrate Mothers Day than to take your mum to Mummies! All accompanied mothers will be allowed in free of charge on this special day. Mummies is a unique temporary exhibition revealing 3000 years of Ancient Egyptian embalming and mummification with a select collection of some of the most famous Royal Mummies specially recreated. 01305 269741. www.mummiesexhibition.co.uk

02 The Polish Play Buckland Newton Village Hall, 7.30pm. Presented by Farnham Maltings. More event than play, this show looks at the ways stories are told.... a funny, affectionate and touching story of what it is to belong. Carol Zepanski dreams of returning to the village where, 60 years ago, his father, a Polish air force pilot, met his mother at a village dance. Basha Zepanski, his wife, continues her search for the ideal sausage! This is a fun story about the rise and fall of the Iron Curtain and about our sense of place in the world. Using an accordion, You Tube, Yuri Gagarin and the 1974 world cup finals this will appeal to all over the age of 7 yrs! www.artsreach.co.uk

02 Black Voices The Exchange, Sturminster Newtown, 7.30pm World famous a cappella group Black Voices has forged its own dynamic way of distilling and re-presenting black music from a Caribbean, black British perspective. From spirituals to gospel, Caribbean to African, jazz and blues, Black Voices is firmly rooted in music that energises and uplifts, challenges and educates. Please book early to avoid disappointment. (01258 475137) www.artsreach.co.uk

02 Dear Scheherazade - Elizabeth Gaskell, in her Own Words Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 3pm. Gabrielle Drake stars in this one-woman show using extracts from stories and letters of Elizabeth Gaskell. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

02 Spring Soundbath Star House, Middle Piccadilly Natural Healing Centre, Holwell, Nr Sherborne, 2pm – 4pm. Presented by Centre for Pure Sound. Let the pure soundwaves generated by crystal and Tibetan bowls and vocal overtoning take you into the "Relaxation Response". 01935 389655 www.wessexresearchgroup.org

04 To The Marrow Melbury Osmond Village Hall, 7.30pm. Ed and Miles are competitive vegetable growers who believe in the old adage that "size matters". While they are trying to put pounds on their veg, Miles' wife is trying to shed them from her thighs and Ed's wife is longing for something more than a husband who spends all his time on the allotment. Join Forest Forge Theatre Company for an exploration of the life cycle, spider mites and the mysteries of the genus cucurbita. (01935 83410) www.forestforge.co.uk. Suitable for ages 12+.

05 Ludmilla's Russian Journey Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, 6.30pm. A fascinating journey around the country estates, town houses, dachas, theatres and churches of distinguished writers, musicians and one atomic scientist living in and around Moscow and Nizhny Novgorod in the last two centuries. 01305 262735.

05 Bridport Camera Club Meeting The Salt House, Fisherman's Green, West Bay, Bridport, 7.30pm. Fortnightly meetings with visiting speakers, competitions and presentations. New members always welcome. 01308 459443. www.bridportcameraclub.co.uk

05 Gradgrind Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.30pms. Icon Theatre present 'Gradgrind' based on Hard Times by Charles Dickens. Fast, furious - and with a very Dickensian sense of the grotesque- this exuberant production celebrates the classic novel in Icon Theatre's distinctive, engaging style. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

06 Sherborne Historical Society Lecture Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne, 8pm. Lecture by Frank Willey on "Digby vs Raleigh: Sherborne and Clevedon". New members and visitors welcome. 01963 364075.

06 Auction of Promises Puddletown Village Hall, Puddletown, Dorchester, 7pm. Led by Gary Batt of HY Duke, Fine Art Auctioneers. Over 90 items. All proceeds towards the restoration of the church tower. Ticket price to include a drink and light refreshments. 01305 848510 or 01305 848746.

06 Houdini's Suitcase Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, Bridport. 7.30pm. Houdini’s Suitcase by Pickled Image. A co-production with Nordland Visual Theatre, Norway. On top of a towering pile of luggage in a deserted railway station sits an old man who used to be an apprentice to the great Houdini. Houdini's Suitcase is a stunning piece of visual theatre, which mixes live performance, puppetry, and a haunting soundtrack. Poignant and funny, it is suitable for audiences aged 12 +. Tickets £10, £9 supporters, concs, £5 students, 01308 424204. www.bridport-arts.com

07 The Baghdaddies Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, Bridport, 8pm. The Baghdaddies play an eclectic mish-mash of musical merriment. Their sound is influenced by music from throughout the world - from the Roma wedding, brass band and gypsy music of Eastern Europe, through reggae, ska, calypso, jazz and punk rock. The Baghdaddies always maintain a truly happy and seriously danceable side to their music. Tickets £12, £11 supporters, concs, 01308 424204. www.bridport-arts.com

07 Seckou Keita + St. Mary’s Middle School, Puddletown, 7.30pm. Young new-generation Kora star, Seckou Keita, with a fantastic musical pedigree represents the emergence of a new generation of African musicians. He has a unique style on what is generally a gentle melodic instrument which is sure to get people out of their chairs and up on their feet! An unforgettable musical experience! (01305 261984) www.artsreach.co.uk

07 'Svetlana' - Poetry Café Dorchester Arts Centre, The Grove, Dorchester, doors and bar open 7.30pm, performance starts 8pm. Poetry café offers food, drink and literature in a warm and friendly atmosphere. This is Russian-born Svetlana's first headline show, dedicated to modern love poetry and featuring two of her English selections, 'Post M.' and 'Mum-M Mermaid'. Food £2.50. 01305 266926. www.dorchesterarts.org.uk

07 Archaeology Lecture: Rather Feeble Little Bumps Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, 7.30pm. GPS, EDM and DTM surveys of the South Dorset Ridgeway long barrows with the Dorset AONB volunteer group. By Dr Hazel Riley, English Heritage. 01305 262735. www.dorsetcountymuseum.org

07 Dorchester Rugby Football Club The Corn Exchange, High East Street, Dorchester, 7.30pm to midnight. Under 14's squad Band Night featuring "Jigsaw" + support " Playback". Raffle proceeds to CLIC Sargent. £12 ticket includes pasty supper. 07747104748.

07 - 08 Eclipse Baroque Fusion's Spanish Spice The Electric Palace Cinema, South Street, Bridport. Performances Friday 4.30pm and Saturday 7pm. Eclipse Baroque Fusion's Spanish Spice comprises lively early music with a modern twist evoking the atmosphere of a gypsy encampment, with virtuosic improvisations on harps, recorders, viol, guitar, theorbo and percussion. Eclipse performs exhilarating flamencos, lyrical ensemble pices and the swirling, passionate tarantella. The guest artist, flamenco and contemporary dancer Gabriela Rosa, creates an exciting link between early music and the folk world of flamenco dance. Tickets (Friday 7th £7 adults, £4 children; Saturday 8th £14 adults, £8 children) available from Bridport Tourist Information Centre 01308 424901 or book through Abbotsbury Music, PO Box 5968, Abbotsbury DT3 4JR 01305 871475. www.electricpalace.org.uk

07 The Kills at The Electric Palace South Street, Bridport, 8pm. Contemporary music from The Kills. Tickets £10 available online or from Bridport Record Centre, 33 South Street, Bridport 01308 425707. 01308 426336. www.electricpalace.org.uk

07 Dorset Wildlife Trust Talk: Work of the Weymouth RSPB Friends Meeting House, South Street, Bridport, 7.30pm. An illustrated talk by Nick Tomlinson. Non members £3 to include refreshments. 01305 264620.

08 Bluesnights at Dorchester Arts Centre Dorchester Arts Centre, The Grove, Dorchester, doors and bar open at 7.30pm, performances starts at 8pm. A season of five bluesnights at Dorchester Arts Centre. 01305 266926. www.dorchesterarts.org.uk

08 Sherborne Chamber Choir – St. John’s Passion Sherborne Abbey, Sherborne, 7.30pm. St. John's Passion by Bach, peformed by Sherborne Chamber Choir. Conductor: Paul Ellis. Starts 7.30pm. Tickets priced £5 (unreserved), reserved £10, £12, £14, £16. Students under 18 free, available from The Dorset Music House (01935 816332). www.sherbornechamberchoir.org.uk

08 - 09 Lambing Weekend Kingston Maurward Nr. Dorchester. 01305 215003. www.kmc.ac.uk

08 Seckou Keita + Evershot Village Hall, 8pm. (See entry on 7^th for description). (01935 83580) www.artsreach.co.uk

08 Dance - Mainly Ballroom Lyme Regis Uplyme Village Hall, Lyme Road, Lyme Regis, 8pm. Dance - Ballroom, Latin and some Sequence - in aid of Hall funds. Everyone welcome, price includes Tea & Biscuits. 01297 442439.

08 Family Workshop - Painted Silk Heraldic Banners Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, 10am – 12pm. Study Heraldic symbols and paint your chosen design on silk - to flutter from your castle battlements or bedroom wall. No booking required - just turn up on the day. Up to 2 children admitted free with every adult. 01305 262735. www.dorsetcountymuseum.org

08 Secondhand Book Sale Uplyme Village Hall, Lyme Road, Uplyme, Lyme Regis, 11am – 3pm. Secondhand Book Sale in aid of Uplyme Village Hall, raffle and refreshments. To book a table please ring 01297 631919..

08 Spring Book Sale Joseph Weld Hospice, Herringston Road, Dorchester, 10am – 2pm. A large selection of hardback and paperback books. 01305 215315. www.weld-hospice.org.uk

08 Murder Mystery Dinner St Andrew's Community Hall, Lower Sea Lane, Charmouth, 7.30pm. A Murder Mystery presented by the Murder to Measure Company, set in the 1920's (period dress optional), licensed bar. Tickets available from Devonedge Hairdressers, Charmouth. Raising funds for St Andrew's Community Hall 01297 560531.

08 Sherborne Jazz Club White Hart Inn, Bishops Caundle, Nr. Sherborne, doors open 7.30pm. Sherborne Jazz Club presents Compassionate Dictatorship, which is primarily a collaboration between guitarist Jez Franks and saxophonist tori Freestone with Ben Reynolds on drums and Jasper Hoiby on double bass. Tickets £12, £8 students, £6 under 16s available on the door. 01963 23301. www.myspace.com/sherbornejazzclub

08 Sam Newgarth’s Evening of Popular Classics featuring the World’s Best Loved Music St. John’s Church, Milborne Port, Nr. Sherborne, 7.30pm. A concert of your favourite music given by four top performers in support of church funds. Tickets £10 including a glass of wine from 01963 251359/250030, Wayne Pullen Butchers, Milborne Port or on the door.

09 Dorset County Orchestra Concert St. Mary's Beaminster, Nr. Bridport, 7.30pm. With soloist Helen Nicholas. Programme includes McCunn's Land of Mountain & Flood, Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 2 and Beethoven's 5th Symphony. Tickets £8 (students £3) are available from Bridport Tourist Information Centre 01308 424901, www.dorsetcountyorchestra.org.uk

09 The Cottage Garden Society Dorset Group Spring Meeting Brownsword Hall, Poundbury, Nr Dorchester, 2.30pm Speaker Pam Lewis of Sticky Wicket - "Gardening in Tune with Nature." Raffle and Plants for sale. Non Members welcome. 01258 940894.

11 Buildings of Bridport - styles, details & materials Main Hall, Bridport United Church, East Street, Bridport, 2.30pm. Bridport History Society talk by Richard Durham. Mr Durham has made a study of the building of Bridport and will talk to us about his findings. Entrance members £1; visitors £2 including refreshments. 01308 456876.

11 The Piano Tuner of Earthquakes Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, Bridport, 7.45pm. On the eve of her wedding, beautiful singer Malvina is murdered and abducted by malevolent Dr Droz to be reanimated. Piano tuner Felisberto is summoned to activate the dreaded doctor's musical automata and attempts to rescue Malvina. Directed by the Brothers Quay, who have a cult following for their dark films involving themes of animation, manipulation and puppetry, the film provides an echo of the haunting Houdini’s Suitcase (March 6). Tickets £5, £4 supporters, concs. 01308 424204. www.bridport-arts.com

11 To The Marrow The Drax Hall, Bere Reigs, 7.30pm. (See entry on 4^th for description) (01929 471342) www.artsreach.co.uk

12 Geology Lecture: Triassic East Dorset Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, 6.30pm. Triassic deserts; evidence of climate change as seen in the rocks, and possible causes. By Dr Ramues Gallois, BGS, Exeter. 01305 262735. www.dorsetcountymuseum.org

12 Quiz Night - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.30pm. Theatre Friends invite you to their Quiz Night; teams of up to 6 persons; Bar, Teas & Coffee, Raffle. 01297 442394. www.marinetheatre.com

12 Sherborne Flicks – Elizabeth, the Golden Age Church Hall, Digby Road, Sherborne, 7.30pm. The Flicks come to Sherborne on the second Wednesday of each month. Tickets £5 - available from Sherborne TIC. 01935 815899. www.sherbornehouse.org.uk/artslink

12 A Bridge Afternoon in aid of Parkinson's Disease Society The Village Hall, Alweston, Sherborne, 2pm – 5pm. £25 a table (including tea); raffle. 01935 812940.

12 Youth Makes Music Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne, 7pm. An evening of musical entertainment by pupils from the schools in the Sherborne area, organised by the Rotary Club of Sherborne. Tickets £3 adults, 50p under 16s, £5 family, available from Sherborne Tourist Information Centre. 01935 815341

13 The Winged State Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, Bridport, 2pm. Inspired by the myth of the boy who flew too close to the sun, The Winged State is a compelling story with a message for our time, by No Limits Theatre company. When Icarus and his father try to flee their living nightmare, will they fly or will they fall? Tickets £5, £4 supporters, concs. 01308 424204. www.bridport-arts.com/whatson

13 To The Marrow Sixpenny Handley Village Hall, 7.30pm (See 4^th for description) 01725 552591. www.artsreach.co.uk

13 - 16 The New Scorpion Band presents 'Cold Blows the Wind' Concerts at Durweston Village Hall on 13^th, Halstock Village Hall on 14^th, Ibberton Village Hall on 15^th and West Lulworth Village Hall on 16^th, all at 7.30pm. A collection of magical ballads, spooky stories, enchanting instrumentals and rare rituals drawn from the folk traditions of the British Isles. The show will be characterised by mystery and imagination, featuring wild and unusual sounds from the NSB's extraordinary collection of musical instruments. The New Scorpion Band specialise in the subtle use of a very wide range of folk instruments and wonderful harmonies to bring their exquisite material to life. Contacts : Durweston 01258 453170; Halstock (01935 83347); Ibberton 01258 817269 and West Lulworth 01929 400181. www.artsreach.co.uk

13 - 14 Carving A Wooden Bowl Mangerton House, Mangerton, Bridport. Spending time working in the woodland workshop is very relaxing, satisfying and fun for all levels of experience. Learn the ancient craft of green (unseasoned) wood working under the tuition of Guy Mallinson and various specialist co-presenters. Use of very high quality tools, materials and delicious lunches are included and you should expect to go away with the fruits of your labours to show friends and family. 01308 485111. www.mallinson.co.uk

13 Romney Event: The Age of Elegance - Dress in the 18th Century Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, 6.30pm. Costumes from the period of Romney by Penny Ruddock, former curator of the Assembly Rooms Museum of Costume in Bath. A 'Romney appeal' fundraising event at the County Musuem to raise funds to purchase three portraits by George Romney, one of the key figures in 18th century British art and a contemporary of Joshua Reynolds and Thomas Gainsborough. 01305 262735. www.dorsetcountymuseum.org

14 Bridport & West Dorset Music Club Event: Sorrel Quartet with Christopher Langdown Sir John Colfox School, Ridgeway, Bridport, 7.45pm. The highly acclaimed string quartet will play Haydn, Shostakovich and Elgar. Single tickets £12, subscription for full season £40. Reductions for students.

14 Mad Woman in the Attic Briantspuddle Village Hall, 7.30pm. Presented by the Boiling Kettle Theatre Co. Set in a rural community in Somerset, 'The Mad Woman In The Attic' is a humorous, poignant play that challenges preconceptions about 'senior citizens' in a world dominated by youth culture. It will strike a chord with anyone who's going grey and give their younger friends and relations a new perspective! www.artsreach.co.uk

14 Charterhouse Auction – Collectors’ Items, Clocks and Antiques Monthly antiques auctions. Viewing Wednesday from 10am to 4pm and Thursday from 10am to 7pm. Sales start on Friday at 10a m, with viewing from 8.30am to 10.45am. 01935 812277. www.charterhouse-auctions.co.uk

14 Crimea!! Church Hall, Yetminster, 7.30pm. A lecture on the Crimean War and Charge of the Light Brigade by Colonel Oliver Lindsay CBE FRHistS. Tickets £6 including a glass of wine. 01935 872711.

14 To The Marrow Anne Biddlecombe Hall, Tarrant Keyneston, 7.30pm. (See 4^th for description) 01258 456714 www.artsreach.co.uk

14 Black Voices Sydling St Nicholas Church, 7.30pm. World famous a cappella group Black Voices has forged its own dynamic way of distilling and re-presenting black music from a Caribbean, black British perspective. From spirituals to gospel, Caribbean to African, jazz and blues, Black Voices is firmly rooted in music that energises and uplifts, challenges and educates. Please book early to avoid disappointment. (01300 341104). www.artsreach.co.uk

14 'Beauty and the Beast' Dorchester Arts Centre, The Grove, Dorchester. Two shows - 1pm (doors open 12.30pm) and 6pm (doors open 5.30pm). The Puppet Lab’s newest production of the classic fairytale Beauty and the Beast combines beautifully crafted wooden marionette puppets and blue screen technology which results in an entirely unique performance. The mixture of live puppetry and on screen animation, traditional and modern, produces a fascinating piece of theatre which appeals to adults as well as children. 01305 266926. www.dorchesterarts.org.uk

14 Four Head Gardeners in the Andes Village Hall, Burton Bradstock, Bridport, 7.30pm. A presentation by Stephen Griffith (Curator at Abbotsbury Subtropical gardens) exploring the Chilean National Parks. Tickets on the door. 01308 898222. www.burtonbradstock.org.uk

14 Pretty Witty Nell Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8pm. Two Friends Productions present 'Pretty Witty Nell', a one-woman play about the life of Nell Gwyn, the most popular mistress of Charles II. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

15 Piddle Valley Beautifully Observed 1977-2002 Piddlehinton Village Hall, Piddlehinton, Dorchester, 7.30pm. Photos and tales of Jubilee Years. An evening with Brendan Jackson. 01300 348404.

15 JS Bach - Passion and St John St Mary's Church, Edward Road, Dorchester, 7.30pm. Organised by Dorchester Choral Society. Tickets available from Harmony Music., 01305 262005.

15 The Magic of Mozart Cheap Street Church, Sherborne, 7.30pm. A programme of magical and evocative music from 18^th century Vienna performed by London Chamber Soloists. Tickets – Adults £8.50, Children/Students £4.50, from Dorset Music House 01935 816332.

15 Monfi Cats Dorchester Arts Centre, The Grove, Dorchester, doors and bar open 7.30pm, performance at 8pm. Inspirational fusion music from The Monfi Cats, a group of high calibre multi-instrumentalists. Performance includes original compositions drawing on a combination of different genres, including world, blues, jazz and folk. 01305 266926. www.dorchesterarts.org.uk

15 Museum Club - Eggtastic Egg-Flying Contraptions Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester. Become and Eggtastical Inventor, make an egg-flinging machine and see who can fling the egg furthest. Or parachute an egg from the museum balcony or make an egg glider and see if you can fly the egg to the end of the hall. Discover some of the traditions behind egg rolling and help hunt down chocolate eggs hidden in the museum. Prizes will be given! 01305 262735. www.dorsetcountymuseum.org

15 Michael McIntyre Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8pm. Off the Kerb Productions presents for one night only - Michael McIntyre - bringing his smash hit West End Show to the Marine Theatre. Adults only. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

15 Workshop at Highway Farm: Flowers for you! Highway Farm, West Road, Bridport. Learn to be creative with the help of tutor Sylvia Dunsford. Please bring along flowers and foliage and learn how to make buttonholes & handtied posies Cost £25 inc. lunch. 01308 424321. www.highwayfarm.co.uk

15 Sherborne Monthly Book Fair Church Hall, Digby Road, Sherborne, 9.30am – 4pm. New, second-hand and antiquarian books for sale, also magazines, prints, postcards and ephemera. Free admission. 01803 613356.

16 Parnham Voices In Concert The Brownsword Hall, Poundbury, Dorchester. Parnham Voices in concert with guest harpist Florence Astley, in aid of The Weldmar Hospice Trust. Tickets are £10 each, to include a glass of wine. 01305 269200. www.parnhamvoices.org.uk

16 10k 'Multi-Terrain' Running Race Sherborne Castle, New Road, Sherborne, 11am. Sherborne Castle's 10k Multi-terrain running race plus 1800m junior race. 01935 813182. www.yeoviltownrrc.com

18 Dorset Industrial Archaeology Society Dorset Room, Colliton Club, Dorchester, 7.30pm. The Portland Industrial survey, a talk by Dr Peter Stanier. Non-members welcome at £2.00 per person.

19 Bridport Camera Club Meeting The Salt House, Fisherman's Green, West Bay, Bridport, 7.30pm. Visiting speakers, competitions and presentations. New members always welcome. 01308 459443. www.bridportcameraclub.co.uk

19 Music Society Concert: Eden-Stell Guitar Duo Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, 7.30pm Classical guitar duo of Mark Eden and Christopher Stell perform Bach, Villa-Lobos, de Falla and Torroba. 01305 262735. www.dorsetcountymuseum.org

19 Momentum 'Anima' Corn Exchange, Dorchester, 8pm. Momentum's new production 'Anima' is based on dreams and explores the dynamics between the conscious and subconscious. Visually enthralling with an original soundtrack, animation, aerial elements and innovative lighting. 01305 266926. www.dorchesterarts.org.uk

20 A Trip Down Musical Memory Lane Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.30pm. Chard Light Operatic Society present an evening of light hearted entertainment including a selection of music hall songs. Tickets for sale on the door. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

21 The Jamm Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8.30pm. This tribute show to The Jam is backed by the experience of over 2000 live performances. The show has over 30 songs packed into a high energy, authentic performance. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

21 - 24 Easter Egg Hunt at Kingston Maurward Kingston Maurward, Dorchester. 01305 215003. www.kmc.ac.uk

21 - 24 The Great Dinosaur Egg Hunt The Dinosaur Museum, Icen Way, Dorchester. Explore the Dinosaur Museum, in Dorchester, with its exciting mix of actual fossils, skeletons, and life-size dinosaur reconstructions combined with hands on and multi-media displays to discover the answers to the clues in the Dinosaur Mystery. All children who solve the Mystery correctly win a special prize dinosaur! 01305 269880. www.thedinosaurmuseum.com

21 - 24 The Giant Easter Egg Hunt Sub-Tropical Gardens, Bullers Way, Abbotsbury, gardens open daily 10am-5pm, 10am-6pm on Bank Holidays. 01305 871387. www.abbotsbury-tourism.co.uk

21 – 24 Beer Festival Black Dog Pub, Broadmayne, Dorchester. Sample over 20 Ales, Ciders and Beers from around the country, with free live music throughout the weekend. Easter Sunday special - The Wurzels playing in the marquee from 1.00pm. Tickets £10.00. 07990810689.

22 Sherborne Book Fair Church Hall, Sherborne, 10am – 4pm. Antiquarian and second-hand books offered for sale by West Country Booksellers. 01935 850210. www.pbfa.org

22 Dance - Mainly Ballroom Lyme Regis Uplyme Village Hall, Lyme Road, Lyme Regis, 8pm Dance - Ballroom, Latin and some Sequence - in aid of Hall funds. Everyone welcome, price includes Tea & Biscuits. 01297 442439.

22 Fossil Roadshow - Charmouth Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre, Lower Sea Lane, Charmouth, 10.30am – 4.30pm. . Entry is free and there will be lots to see and do, including a fossil hunting walk, fabulous collections, 'identify your fossils', fossil mould making, Ammonite slice polishing, and a fossil lucky dip. 01297 560772. www.charmouth.org

22 Little Fishes St Peter's Church, High West Street, Dorchester, 2.15pm. Short services for pre - school children and their parents or carers. Stories and songs will be followed by a chat over refreshments. 01305 264199 or 01305 260592.

22 Reg Meuross Band Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8pm. Reg Meuross, one of Britain's finest singer/songwriters performing a marvellous set of songs. The evening also features Jackie Oates, who was a finalist in the Radio 2 Young Folk Awards. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

22 - 23 Spring Bulbs & Daffodils Weekend Sherborne Castle, New Road, Sherborne, 11am – 4.30pm. Reduced price entry to the gardens and grounds. 01935 813182. www.sherbornecastle.com

23 Easter Bonnet Parade Langmoor Gardens, Pound Street, Lyme Regis, 2pm. Annual Easter Bonnet Parade commencing at the top of Langmoor Gardens.

24 Craft Fair Salwayash Village Hall, B3162 North of Bridport, Salwayash, 10am – 4pm Quality crafts for sale; refreshments available all day. Admission Free. Ample parking. 01308 488101.

24 Bank Holiday Organ Recital Sherborne Abbey Sherborne. 01935 812452. www.sherborneabbey.com

24 Gartell Light Railway Open Day Common Lane, Yenston, Templecombe, 10.30am – 4.30pm. Narrow gauge steam on the old Somerset & Dorset Railway. Visitor Centre, refreshments, souvenir shop, lakeside picnic area. Unlimited travel : Adults £6, Children £3, OAPs £4.50, under 5s free. 01963 370752. www.glr-online.co.uk

26 Yetties Concert Church Hall, Digby Road, Sherborne, 7.30pm. Concert in aid of the Friends of Yeatman Hospital. Tickets available from Sherborne Tourist Information Centre. 01935 812841. www.theyetties.co.uk

26 Sherborne Science Café Sherborne House, Newland, Sherborne, 7.30pm. A talk by Gary Shainberg on "The Future of Communications and Media" 01935 815052. www.sherbornesciencecafe.co.uk

26 Wednesday Afternoon Walks at the Kingcombe Centre Kingcombe Centre, Toller Porcorum, Dorchester, 2.15pm. Wednesday Afternoon Walks are very popular with visitors and local people alike. Each walk will cover a particular subject - perhaps flowers, birds, freshwater life, butterflies or mammals. Most walks meet at the Kingcombe Centre at 2.15pm and return for tea and cake at 4pm - 4.30pm. Please telephone before arrival to confirm details. Wellington boots generally recommended. 01300 320684. www.kingcombecentre.org.uk

28 St. Martin's Broadmayne Market St Martin's Community Hall, Broadmayne, Dorchester, 10am. Raffle, craft, plants, books, jigsaws, cards, local trout, sausages & eggs, cakes and preserves. Chance to sit and chat with a cup of tea or coffee. All proceeds for St Martin's Community Hall. 01305 852886.

28 Little Fishes St Peter's Church, High West Street, Dorchester, 2.15pm. Short services for pre - school children and their parents or carers. Stories and songs will be followed by a chat over refreshmensts. 01305 264199 or 01305 260592.

29 Sherborne Saturday Antiques & Flea Market Church Hall, Digby Road, Sherborne, 9am - 4pm. 01963 250108.

29 Workshop at Highway Farm: Living Willow Highway Farm, West Road, Bridport, 10.30am – 12.30pm. Tutor Amy Ralph. Come and have a go, learn to plant, weave and make beautiful living arbours, tunnels and natural screens. Guidance and instructions to take home so you can create your own living archways and fences. Cost £20. 01308 424321. www.highwayfarm.co.uk

29 Bluesnights at Dorchester Arts Centre Dorchester Arts Centre, The Grove, Dorchester, 8pm. A season of five bluesnights at Dorchester Arts Centre. (0)1305 266926. www.dorchesterarts.org.uk

30 Point to Point at Littlewindsor Signposted from A3066, Littlewindsor, nr Beaminster. Cattistock Hunt event with the first race at 1.30pm. 01300 320683.

31 Easter Holiday Activity : Puppet Making Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, 10am – 12pm. Shadow puppets, hand puppets or simple string puppets, what will you choose? Come with your friends and make puppets for a show. No booking required - just turn up. Up to 2 children admitted free with every adult. 01305 262735. www.dorsetcountymuseum.org

31 Workshop at Highway Farm: Natural Baskets Highway Farm, West Road, Bridport, 10am - 5pm. Tutor Andy Southwell. Relax and enjoy working with natural willow. Andy is a great tutor and you will achieve a beautifully handmade basket. Please bring lunch. Cost £40. Maximum 7. Materials included. Please book in advance on 01308 424321 or www.highwayfarm.co.uk

FOR FURTHER DETAILS ON EVENTS AND THE LOCAL AREA PLEASE CONTACT:

www.westdorset.com