West Green House Opera

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Wicked or wondrous? Feast your senses at West Green House Opera

Opera may be the most emotional of all art forms, combining glorious music, engrossing plots, soaring arias, tragic heroines, dastardly heroes.

As if to prove the point, within a week at West Green House Opera we offer one of the most exuberant cads in all literature followed by one of the most pious and pure heroines.

Falstaff is known to many as the joival knight of Shakespeare plays, enthusiastic in his desires, brimming with life, mighty of girth and never without a drink. Verdi’s opera is based on The Merry Wives of Windsor, where the unruly Falstaff is challenged by feisty women to wonderfully comic effect. Embraced by soaring Verdi melodies and presented in a colourful, witty new staging by Richard Studer, why not treat yourself to some Sunday indulgence in the company of this fabulously wicked knight and his cast of comic characters?

Falstaff is on Sunday, 21st July.

And by complete contrast, just five days later, the ethereal and complex Suor Angelica takes centre stage, wrestling with her desire for earthly pleasures while remaining firm in her religious beliefs. With music by Puccini (Madam Butterfly, La Boheme), Angelica’s story draws audiences into its short one act format, perfect for a Friday evening which might include a West Green House picnic, some fizz at the Lakefield Bar and maybe a wander round the illuminated Gardens after dark?

Enjoy Suor Angelica on Friday, 26th July.

Sinner or saint? Naughty or novice? Bounder or blessed? Indulge all your senses at West Green House this July, Thackhams Lane, Hartley Wintney RG27 8JB.

Images show Simon Thorpe who plays Falstaff and Jenny Stafford who plays Suor Angelica at West Green House Opera July 2024

www.westgreenhouseopera.co.uk

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Learn new skills at Coaching Barn

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Head to The Coaching Barn at Littlestoke Manor Farm on July 20th & 21st and 27th & 28th and join the Modern Makers Collective

Learn some new skills as the Modern Makers bring you two weekends of fun and creativity at the fabulous Coaching Barn near Wallingford – the perfect space to switch off.

Spend two days of meditative stitching with Aimée Alice Payton on July 20th & 21st as you create a beautiful gathered lampshade. Aimée is an upholsterer and lampshade maker who uses exquisite textiles to create bespoke items for beautiful interiors. Her handstitched and hand-rolled lampshades are full of colour, life and stories. She will share her knowledge to help you achieve a professional finish to your lampshade.

Mark aka Lino Lord will introduce you to the art of lino printing on July 20th when you’ll design, carve and print a black under his guidance. You may choose to create three beautiful stacking rings using traditional silversmithing techniques with award-winning jeweller, Charlotte Berry or how about creating a beautiful summer wreath with Jane Body, both on Sunday 21st.

Charlotte creates exquisite fine and heirloom jewellery from her workshop based in South Oxfordshire using traditional techniques and the finest materials and specialises in helping couples create their dream one-of-a-kind ethical wedding jewellery to cherish for a lifetime.

With a background in art and photography, Jane combines her expert eye for design with her love of the natural world. Much of Jane’s foliage comes from her own abundant garden which is delicately arranged with luxurious decorative elements. With a range of bespoke wreaths on offer, Jane also runs workshops and provides kits to be made at home.

The following weekend you can learn the ancient art of block printing fabric using Lino in a day long workshop with Oxfordshire-based textile printer Albert Harvey on 27th or spend time making a beautiful basket with basketmaker Louise Arthur from Rough Around the Hedges to use for storing and displaying items within the home or for gathering fruit, eggs, mushrooms and berries in the great outdoors.

The workshops weekend closes with another Lino printing class on Sunday 28th as above and a fun day making Boho jewellery earrings and necklaces with Kate Wilkinson.

For all events refreshments are provided with additional lunch options available from The Goring Grocer.

For full details of all the workshops and to book, visit Summer School | modern makers uk (modernmakerscollective.co.uk)

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Winning gardeners don’t hedge their bets

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We love these award-winning topiary designs – what do you think?

Garden ladder expert, Henchman has unveiled the winners of its 2024 inaugural Topiary Awards. The competition, honours the centuries-old tradition of shaping living sculptures from plants.

The entries from across Britain were evaluated based on a comprehensive set of criteria designed to assess their creativity, craftsmanship, and overall impact, by an esteemed panel of topiary experts and horticulturalists including; Elizabeth Hilliard, Editor of European Boxwood and Topiary Society (EBTS) magazine TOPIARIUS; Michael Buck, Head of Horticulture at Creepers Nursery; Andy Bourke, professional topiarist better known as The Hedge Barber; and Owen Simpson, Managing Director at Henchman. 

Taking home first prize in the Professional Gardener Category is Harrie Carnochan from West Sussex. Harrie maintains this topiary garden, the immaculate symmetry wowed the judges, with Harrie’s expert attention to detail and skill evident in the high-impact finish. Small topiary balls sit atop perfectly sculpted columns to welcome visitors to the garden, with rounded trees standing proudly around the lawn.

In second place is Suffolk-based Chris Reeve, whose topiary creation brings a touch of magical enchantment to any garden. The design features a carefully crafted frog that seems ready to leap into life. Its intricate details include rounded eyes, a pronounced mouth and gracefully arched limbs, showcasing exceptional skill, creativity and a keen eye for detail.

Recognised for his charming and lifelike depiction of two dogs, the highly commended award goes to Simon Newman from Worcestershire.

The winning entry in the Home Gardener Category goes to David Hawson from Aberdeenshire, whose design features a whimsical scene featuring countryside animals and marine creatures carefully sculpted into a continuous hedge, resulting in a high-impact horizon.

In second place is Petra Hoyer-Millar from Oxfordshire, whose design features a series of perfectly clipped hedges crafted into large, rounded shapes that flow sinuously to create a cloud-like effect, guiding the eye along their length with artistic precision and skill.

The Henchman Choice Award, voted for by the Henchman team, goes to Bedfordshire-based Keith Miles for his impressive life-size tractor sculpture crafted from densely trimmed shrubs.

The winners were announced at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Flower Festival, where they received a trophy, a bundle for Henchman products, an annual membership to the European Boxwood and Topiary Society and a day trip for two to one of the EBTS UK’s day-long garden trips. Well done to all!

For more information about Henchman, visit Henchman | Tripod Ladders & Safe Working Platforms

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Do you dig Greys Court?

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As part of this month’s Festival of Archaeology, archaeologists from the National Trust and South Oxfordshire Archaeology Group will investigate some of Greys Court’s fascinating buried archaeology. Katy Dunn tells us more…

The known history of Greys Court, between Henley and Rotherfield Greys, stretches back over 900 years, with the earliest known record being the Domesday Book of 1086. The de Grey family constructed the original manor house on the site, and early historic fabric survives, notably the Great Tower and adjacent wall fragments, dating from the 12th-14th centuries.

The archaeologists will examine the evidence of a series of “parch-marks” which are revealed on Greys Court’s oval lawn in particularly dry weather. These hint at a courtyard wall with a possible gatehouse structure. There were also other buildings on the site, now demolished. The team will also be guided by a geophysics survey across the lawn.

National Trust archaeologist Adrian Cox said: “We are hoping to add to our knowledge of the fascinating early history of Greys Court. We have a range of information already, including aerial photographs and the evidence of an 19th-century engraving depicting the site and showing its courtyard walls. We want to better understand the medieval and post-medieval layouts of the manor, so that we can give visitors a more accurate picture of how it looked in the past. We are aiming to give visitors close access to this archaeological research as it unfolds on site.”

The National Trust is proud to support the Council for British Archaeology (CBA) Festival of Archaeology, the UK’s biggest annual celebration of archaeology.

Shannon Hogan, National Archaeologist with the National Trust said “We’re delighted to be working with Council for British Archaeology on the Festival Archaeology at the places we care for. Archaeological experiences and activities offer opportunities for more people to find ways to connect with and learn about their local history and heritage. The Festival of Archaeology helps us deliver more for communities by uniting children and adults alike in a range of heritage activities and events.”

Archaeologists will be working at Greys Court from 15th to 21st July, and will be very happy to speak with visitors and explain the work and there may be opportunities to get involved.

To find more National Trust Festival of Archaeology events, visit Festival of Archaeology 2024 | National Trust

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Freddy, steady go in Seer Green!

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Star pianist Freddy Kempf will star in Seer Green on Sunday, 14th July, as the final highlight in Jordans Music Club’s 81st summer festival

Jordans Music Club’s members are delighted that Freddy Kempf is returning to play for them again after his triumphant concert in 2018.

Chairman Marian Pell says: “Freddy is one of today’s most successful pianists, performing to sell-out audiences all over the world. Exceptionally gifted with an unusually broad repertoire, Freddy has built a unique reputation as an explosive and physical performer unafraid to take risks as well as a serious, sensitive and musical artist.

“The concert opens with one of the great achievements for piano in Beethoven’s middle period, the C major Sonata dedicated to Count Waldstein, a sonata which reflects both the grandeur and the brilliance of the Eroica Symphony, composed the previous year.

“We are then treated to Moments Musicaux, first by Schubert and then by Rachmaniov. Schubert’s Moments are quite short, reflecting different moods from the melancholic to the whimsical. Rachmaninov’s versions show the influence of Chopin but are more monumental and virtuosic as Rachmaninov draws on models from high Romanticism and remoulds them. The mood moves from the intensely mournful through storms and calm to the majestic grand finale – a fitting close to our 2024 season.”

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We love Jo Malone & Paddington™!

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What do Jo Malone & Paddington Bear have in common…?

The answer is that both these quintessential British brands love orange marmalade! One (the iconic fragrance brand) has used this to create a gorgeous new scent and the other (the little bear with a big heart) enjoys it in his sarnies, of course!

Yes, Jo Malone London has formed a dream collab with a figure widely associated with kindness: Paddington™. The epitome of seeing the best in everyone and giving “just because”, the beloved bear has inspired a series of limited-edition scented gifts from the British fragrance and lifestyle house.

At the heart of this collection is a cologne that celebrates Paddington’s favourite snack, the marmalade sandwiches he hides beneath his famous red hat. A refined take on the most British preserve, Orange Marmalade blends warm woods with orange zest to create a marvellous, golden fragrance.

Global brand president Jo Dancey says: “A childhood favourite and now our latest collaborator, Paddington conjures up cherished memories of fun-filled summer trips by train, exploring the British countryside and coastline – always with a picnic in tow. And when it comes to our Orange Marmalade Cologne, really there was no other choice of partner we’d rather share our scent with – or marmalade sandwich, come to that.”

The limited-edition collection includes Orange Marmalade Cologne 100ml £124 & Orange Marmalade Cologne 30ml £58.

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Le Tour de Farcycles in Faringdon

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Faringdon-based Farcycles are getting ready to stage their 11th Le Tour de Farcycles on Saturday, 13th July

Take part in a sublime blend of BREW-tiful Cotswold countryside and three deliciously smooth MOCHA-me-happy rides depending on how far you want to push yourself.

We’re famous for the delicious homemade fare at the well-stocked feed stations, and the hot lunch at the finish!

All funds raised by the Sportive go towards local cycling projects including supporting the Cycle Park, teaching and commissioning infrastructure projects such as cycle repair stations, and road safety signs.

Primo-30 (the FLAT WHITE): 30 miles of rolling Cotswold countryside that is just enough to stretch someone looking for a first event. It is also the choice for regular cyclists to have a social meander through some of the region’s prettiest villages. The route is also perfect for families who would like to cycle together.

Medio-50 (the FRAPPUCHINO): 50 miles taking in some of our favourite country lanes. This is the perfect ride for cyclists who want to try a longer distance for the first time or who want a longer ride while still having enough energy for lunch afterwards.

Massimo-80 (the MACHO-ATTO): 80 miles taking in some hillier terrain that will stretch regular cyclists with a big hill or two, while still enjoying the archetypal Cotswold scenery. Back in time for lunch to relive your epic ride with your cycling buddies.

Go to Le Tour Overview — Farcycles or search for Le Tour de Farcycles.

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Planet friendly living in Petersfield

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Head to Petersfield Heath on July 14th for ideas, advice and fun ways to celebrate earth-friendly living for the whole family

Find out more ways to enjoy earth friendly living at this year’s Petersfield Eco Fair on Sunday, 14th July when along with day-long live music, food and drink, it will be a celebratory occasion.

There will be more than 30 stalls themed around various aspects of eco living and plenty of activities for children, such as face painting, storytelling, the Woodland Theatre Company and a children’s activity marquee – all adding up to a fun day out for all the family at Petersfield Heath.

Find out about our local bees, bats, birds and more and what you can do encourage nature in your garden with ideas and inspiration at the Nature stalls: Petersfield Community Garden, Friends of Petersfield Heath, Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, Bumblebee Conservation Trust, Hampshire Bat Group, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and RSPB.

From solar panels to insulation and heat pumps, there’s advice on how to make your home more energy efficient and learn about plans for community energy in our local area.

Travel more sustainably advice on bikes and electric vehicles. There will be bicycle repairs on offer, bikes for sale and EV owners to chat to, courtesy of Petersfield Bicycle Buddies and JPAC Electrical.

Pick up some great ideas on low waste living from recycled products to plastic-free alternatives, with ways to help you consume less and recycle more. Among those offering low-cost living advice will be Petersfield Men’s Shed, Coffee Pod Creations and Green Boutique.

Discover the wide range of local community groups doing their bit to respond to the climate crisis, and join them in making a pledge to protect our planet.

There’s a brilliant line-up of live music to keep you entertained, plus woodland theatre, storytelling, face painting and other children’s activities, delicious food and refreshing drinks local suppliers with Crepe Britain, Dylan’s Ice Cream, Langhams Brewery, Roots and My Little Coffee Co at the Eco Fair. A cup deposit scheme will operate at the bar, so bring an extra £1 for your drink which will be refunded when the cup is returned.

And there’s the chance to showcase your skills with a photography competition where you can be in with the chance of winning a hamper of eco goodies and a young writers competition – can you write a short piece of fiction or non-fiction that has a nature or eco theme? You can win a book token prize.

For more details about the day and the two competitions, visit petersfieldcan.org/projects/eco-fair-2024 

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On a mission with Shakespeare

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To like or not to like Shakespeare? That’s the question Louise Taney is posing with her new theatre company Truth Told who are staging Romeo & Juliet at Cogges Manor Farm

Louise Taney is on a mission to help everyone enjoy Shakespeare and see the relevance of his plays today.

She originally trained at The Oxford School of Drama near Woodstock and has participated in TV, film and theatre shows but her passion is Shakespeare, and this is the driving force behind her new theatre company, Truth Told Theatre which is performing Romeo & Juliet on the Manor Lawn at Cogges Manor Farm in Witney, July 17th-19th.

Having never understood Shakespeare properly at school, where everyone would read round the class not knowing what they were saying, Louise discovered whilst at drama school that the grammar was there as an instruction for the actor on how to say the lines and to give an indication of how the character was feeling (for example, a full stop in the middle of a speech meant a quick change of thought for the character). By using the grammar, the characters come to life and she realised that Shakespeare should always be acted and not read, along with the fact that anyone who could act could act in a Shakespeare play!

This she proved when directing and playing Titania in A Midsummer Night’s Dream two years ago at Cogges in conjunction with Buttercross Theatre Productions. She quips: “One of the comments I got from a member of the audience after the show was that she’d never laughed at Shakespeare before!”

Launching her company this year, Louise says the thinking behind the Truth Told name is about playing a character truthfully to do justice to their performance and the script. The logo being of someone looking in a mirror, that has been a long-term symbol of truth.

She has been working with Cogges on other projects and loves the unique setting of the Manor lawn, with the farmhouse providing a unique and relevant back-drop for the play.

Louise edits Shakespeare’s plays down to a manageable watching time of two hours including an interval and tries to make her shows visually stunning, fast paced and full of action so modern audiences can relate to them.

She says: “Romeo & Juliet is the original teenage drama that ends in tragedy and the ending is extremely similar to storylines seen in modern soap operas such as EastEnders and Hollyoaks. It is about teenagers not being listened to and being forced to conform to the rules of the adult world along with gang warfare, all of which are still relevant today.”

There’s a bar and refreshments to add to your enjoyment. Bring your own rug or low backed chair. Doors open: 6pm. Curtain up: 6.30pm. Tickets £14 adults, £10 child 3-13; £12.60 adult / £9 child for Season / annual pass holders, £12 students.

Book at Buy Admission Tickets | Cogges (myonlinebooking.co.uk)

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Hambledon Outdoor Theatre

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Would you like to experience the delight of outdoor theatre in one of the most beautiful Arts and Crafts settings in the South East of England?

Troubador Theatre presents William Shakespeare’s comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream on Friday, 12th July, at 6pm, and Saturday, 13th July, at 1pm & 6pm at the beautiful Vann in Hambledon, GU8 4EF.

Four young lovers, five amateur players, and a warring fairy host descend on the same forest in one evening. What could possibly go wrong?! As the lines between reality and illusion begin to blur, no one but the mischievous Puck knows what is true and what is magic…

Troubadour’s take on Shakespeare’s classic comedy will transport you from your local forest, field, hall or dell to a truly magical midsummer dream. It is a production both epic and intimate, designed to be enjoyed by all the family. It is packed with original songs and plenty of wonder.

Gates will open half an hour before the performance or you can go early and enjoy the garden and picnic. Come rain, come shine, the show WILL go on!

Adult/Bards: £24, children/Troupers: £22. Early access and picnicking: £10pp

Purchase tickets.

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