From the 15th October to the 5th November, the city of Canterbury (which is already well known for its arts and cultural events) hosts a festival in celebration of theatre, music, the visual arts, and much more.
Canterbury's festival history began all the way back in 1929. Today the Canterbury Festival is well established as a major arts organisation in the South East.
One of the most exciting things about the Canterbury Festival is how the the whole city feels steeped in culture. Some of the most exciting performance venues in Canterbury this year include the Festival Spiegeltent (a travelling 1920s dance hall), the opulent and eccentric Ballroom and even Canterbury Cathedral itself!
Every year the Canterbury Festival programme is packed with exciting shows, from both UK and international artists. With such a broad and diverse range of shows and events on offer there is definitely something for everyone to enjoy, but if you can't decided on what to book for at the Canterbury Festival this year then take a look at these unmissable shows...
Showstopper! The Improvised Musical
Friday 21st October 2016, 7:30pm at the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury
If you're a fan of musical theatre then Showstopper is a must-see show. Unfortunately no synopsis can be provided for this show, because there isn't one! The plot and songs are improvised completely from scratch every night.
Take a look as this review from the Showstopper! tour earlier this year and visit the Canterbury Festival website for more information about how to book tickets.
Jazz at the Movies
Sunday 23rd November, 8pm in the Festival Spiegeltent
This hugely popular show has sold out venues up and down the country, and now they're coming to Canterbury for one night only! They'll be playing iconic tunes from The Pink Panther, From Russia with Love and The Fabulous Baker Boys among others.
If Jazz at the Movies sounds like your sort of thing then visit the Canterbury Festival for more information about how to book tickets.
Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppets - Two Gentle Socks of Verruca
Thursday 3rd November,7pm in the Festival Spiegeltent
If that title doesn't lure you in then nothing will! This hilarious company combines comedy and puppetry to side splitting effect. A clever, inventive show, not to be missed.
If you fancy a bit of sock based Shakespeare humour then walk on over to the festival spiegeltent on Thursday 2rd November. But don't forget to book your tickets in advance by visiting the Canterbury Festival website.
A Shakespeare Miscellany - A Celebration of Songs Associated with Shakespeare
Monday 24th October, 7:30pm at St Gregory's Centre for Music
It's no surprise that a city with such a rich history relating to the arts and literature should attract a number of Shakespeare related shows, but if potty mouthed puppets are a bit too off the wall for you, then you may very well be interested in A Shakespeare Miscellany. Robin Blaze and Elizabeth Kenny are joined by actor Dickon Tyrrell in a recital of music, readings and songs associated with the works of William Shakespeare.
Don't miss out of what is sure to be a wonderful evening. Visit the Canterbury Festival website to book your tickets.
Roller Disco
Saturday 15th October, from 1pm at St Thomas’ Hall, Burgate
Something a bit different, which exemplifies just how much there is going on in Canterbury this autumn, is the roller disco event. Suitable for all ages, this roller disco is sure to be fantastic. No need to bring your own skates as they will be provided on the day (shoe sizes available range from child size 8 to adult size 12), just come along an have fun!
The first session runs from 1:30-3pm, while the second runs from 3:45-5:15, so why not spend a few hours at the roller disco before heading off to an evening show? Book tickets on the Canterbury Festival website.
