The best events in Norfolk this July
Want to make the most of the sunshine this summer? Journalist and Norfolk resident Deborah Cleland-Harris rounds up the best events taking place in Norfolk this July…
1 – Shakespeare Festival, Norwich Cathedral, 15-16 July
The whole country is honouring 400 years of Shakespeare, from The Globe Theatre in London to Norwich Cathedral. Enjoy what will no doubt be a fantastic performance of famous comedy, Much Ado About Nothing, in the picturesque Cathedral Cloisters.
2 – Holt Festival, 23-31 July
This acclaimed festival is in one of Norfolk’s most picturesque and arty towns, Holt. Enjoy a humorous evening with Dr Philip Hammond, or find out about political reporter Kate Adie’s latest book ‘Fighting on the Home Front’. There are also plenty of arts and children’s events, concerts and even magic. For more info visit http://www.holtfestival.org/
3 – Unthank Comedy Festival, 12 July, The Unthank Arms, Newmarket St, Norwich
Zoe Lyons, flits from one topic to the other without breaking pace and keeps us laughing, while Gordon Southern blows you away with his wit and fantastic improv. Last but not least Roger Monkhouse has a sort of sinister humour. All tickets include a 2 for 1 meal voucher. For more info visit http://theunthankarms.com/unthank-comedy-festival-2016/
4 – WoW Festival,1-3 July, Woolsey Bridge Fields, Burston Road, Diss
This small, hippy festival proudly promotes a plethora of local talent (plus locally sourced food and drinks). From bluegrass to ska, acoustic and some swing, headline acts include The Undertones, Gypsy Hill and K.O.G and the Zongo Brigade. There’s glamping for the hardcore revellers. For more info visit: www.wow-arts.co.uk
5 – Pink Cashmere – Prince club night, 1 July, Norwich Arts Centre, 51 St Benedicts St, Norwich
A great tribute to the late Prince, watch a free screening of Purple Rain, then dance the night away at club night Pink Cashmere. DJs will be spinning classics, covers and samples. Dress to impress.
6 – King’s Lynn Festival, 16-30 July
The festival will begin with free events on the Saturday in Tuesday Market Place, while comedians’, tributes to The Bard and concerts will take place over the week. On 22 July, famed jazz singer Claire Martin & swingin’ bandleader Ray Gelato have joined forces for their album launch. Regulars at Ronnie Scotts in London, it’s a privilege to have them in Norfolk. Visit kingslynnfestival.org.uk for more info.
7 – Simply Red, 3 July, Thetford Forest, Brandon, Norfolk
Simply Red are playing at Forest Live – a series of summer concerts in woodland locations promoted by the Forestry Commission. Mick Hucknall and co will play from their new album ‘Big Love’ while also performing some of their greatest hits. This is sure to be a good night. For more info visit forestry.gov.uk/music
8 – Big Top Cinema – ‘Oh Brother Where Art Thou’, 8 July, Earlham Park, Norwich
One of the Coen Brothers’ greatest films comes to Norwich. Sit back and laugh out loud in the comfort of the Big Top Cinema! A live band will be performing during the interval, with a short bluegrass gig after the film. What more could you ask for? Oh, yeah there’s food and snacks – but please keep crunching to a minimum.
9 – Mary Poppins, until 30 July, Theatre Royal, Norwich
This Disney classic originally starring Julie Andrews about a nanny who landed on Cherry Tree Lane, has hit the stage. Receiving rave reviews, it’s a must-see, if only to sing along (quietly) to Sherman Brothers classics such as ‘Jolly Holiday’ and ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’. Read our full preview here.
10 – Norwich Jazz Club presents The Garbrielle Ducomble Quartet, 9 July, Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich
Singing in French and English, London-based performer Gabrielle ouzes sex appeal, with original material as well as versions of Edith Piaf, Serge Gainsbourg and Astor Piazzolla songs. And, it wouldn’t be a French band without an accordion player, hats off to Dan Teper. For more info visit http://maddermarket.co.uk
Click here for our pick of the best music festivals taking place this summer
