A vibrant and inclusive arts programme is returning to Cambridgeshire this summer, thanks to The Library Presents. Over 600 local residents helped to choose the season’s performers and events, scheduled to run across the country during July and August.
The Summer Season offers an incredible line up and brings the opportunity to enjoy lots of fantastic live music, with plenty of events for families, and a sprinkling of theatre, dance and comedy.
Tickets go on sale on 15 June. Based on the success and popularity of previous seasons, demand is expected to be in high. Standard performances are £8 and workshops are £6. Concessions and other affordable options will be available, in order to make the events as accessible as possible.
The Library Presents is funded by Arts Council England, run by Cambridgeshire County Council working with Babylon ARTS.
Roam the world with the help of the Mazaika Duo, set to provide a magical and exhilarating performance full of passion, melodrama and virtuosity. A unique, humorous and uplifting take on East European Folk, Classical, Opera, Tango, Jazz, Latin, Gypsy Swing and Pop.
James Kerry’s love of folk music is infectious. Featuring fiddle, viola, mandolin, acoustic guitar and melodeon, James and his band bring to life music from his new album ‘The Source’, themed around the river on which he lives.
Gasper is a unique solo musician from Malawi who plays a self-made “Babatoni” bass guitar. Featured on CNN, BBC6 and in the documentary ‘Deep Roots Malawi’, this captivating performer has already gained over 20 million online views.
There will also be the chance to participate in a number of art, dance and craft workshops including Comic Making, Samba Drumming and Indian Dance.
Most events will take place in libraries, but the “Wagon of Dreams” theatre production will be staged in Yeomans Field, Littleport. Families will love meeting the show’s outrageous mermaids and fantastical sea creatures in the playful and inventive show, by Jellyfish Theatre. Expect lots of puppetry, music and laughter. This is a Relaxed Performance with integrated Sign Supported English.
Comedian James Campbell is bringing a stand-up show for children, their parents and anyone who likes comedy without rude words. James wrote the bestselling Funny Life books, and has appeared on Blue Peter and at the Royal Albert Hall.
Commenting on the upcoming season, Councillor Tom Sanderson, Chair of the County Council's Communities, Social Mobility and Inclusion Committee said: “Everyone is welcome to the Summer Season programme of events, which will be our 11th season of arts activities in libraries. I’m proud to say that we have been successful in our funding application to Arts Council, enabling us to continue until 2026. The programme relies on members of the community to help select the forthcoming programme. We were delighted that this year’s programme was built on the selections of around 600 people who told us what they would like to see in their libraries.”
The activities are welcoming and accessible as possible, so certain events in the season will include enhanced accessibility. These additional accessibility measures include Relaxed Performances (autism and neurodiverse friendly), and performances with a BSL interpreter and staff who speak BSL to welcome audiences. Hearing loops will be available at some events, or can be booked in advance. Touch tours can be arranged and detailed information about building access is available within the programme guide and on the website. Service animals are welcome at all events and audience members are welcome to get in touch to make specific access requests.
Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director, Arts Council England, said: “We were delighted to continue our funding for The Library Presents through our 2023-26 National Portfolio, supporting them to programme a huge variety of creative and cultural events that communities across Cambridgeshire can enjoy. It is hugely powerful to see that local residents have played such an important role in choosing the performers and events that they want to see. I hope lots of people get the chance to enjoy their fun filled summer season.”
For more information, please visit: https://www.library.live/the-library-presents, or stay up to date on Facebook and Instagram at: @TheLibraryPresents.
