Project Type: Press release

Southampton’s Young Creatives Take The Lead in Jane Austen’s 250th Year

Posted on December 18, 2025 by -

Southampton’s Young Creatives Take The Lead in Jane Austen’s 250th Year

A youth-led celebration inspired by Jane Austen’s 250th year will take place on Tuesday 16th December 2025 from 2–5pm at Southampton Central Library, where all are welcome to drop in to Jane’s Big Birthday Bash.

The event is part of a wider public showcase of work from the ‘Your Stories’ programme – a series of free, youth-led and designed creative workshops delivered by Artswork in partnership with In Focus.

The afternoon will feature a range of creative activities for all ages, including making blackout poetry from Jane’s words, badge-making, bookmark designing, Jane-themed party games and of course, birthday cake. Cake cutting will take place at 3pm, followed by spoken word performances at 4pm.

Though led by young creatives, the ‘Your Stories’ programme welcomed participants of all ages to explore their own creativity through workshops in blackout poetry, collage, fashion, cartoons, poetry, abstract painting, textiles and more. Taking place between August and October 2025, the sessions drew inspiration from Austen’s wit, her keen social observations, and her enduring cultural legacy.

The programme forms part of Southampton Forward’s Jane Austen 250 celebrations – a two-year citywide initiative exploring Austen’s impact through culture and creativity. Work created during the workshops is currently on public display as part of the ‘Your Stories’ exhibition at Southampton Central Library, open until Friday 19th December.

Louise Govier, Chief Executive of Artswork said: “Your Stories’ has given young people the space to lead and get creative, all through the lens of Jane Austen’s themes of identity, humour, observation and belonging. It has been brilliant to see how they have reinterpreted Austen for today, and how the city has responded to their ideas with such enthusiasm.”

Jasmine Matthews, Community Engagement Manager for Southampton Forward added: “Jane Austen’s 250th year has been a major moment for Southampton. Projects like Your Stories capture exactly what we hoped to achieve – celebrating Austen’s connection to the city not only historically, but in inclusive, contemporary ways that invite creative participation across our communities.”

Austen lived in Southampton between 1806 and 1809, and her time in the city remains a valued chapter of her life. The Jane Austen 250 programme, led by Southampton Forward and supported by partners across the city, has celebrated her legacy through festivals, performances, workshops, exhibitions and community projects throughout 2024 and 2025.

‘Your Stories’ is delivered by Artswork in partnership with In Focus Education & Development and is supported by Southampton Forward, The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Foyle Foundation as part of Jane Austen 250.

Find out more about Artwork: https://artswork.org.uk/

Read more about Southampton’s Jane Austen 250 programme: https://southamptonforward.org.uk/jane-austen-250-3/

ENDS

For further information, please contact Becky Lewis, email becky@leepeckmedia.com.

Artswork is a charity that empowers young people through creativity, so they can build a better future – for themselves and others.

Southampton Forward works in partnership across culture, festivals, events, tourism and cultural regeneration. Through collaboration across the city and wider region, we deliver creative, community-led programmes that build connection, pride and opportunity.

Old Town Businesses Invited to Be Part of Southampton’s Projection Trail, City Reflections in Feb 2026

Posted on October 28, 2025 by -

Old Town Businesses Invited to Be Part of Southampton’s Spectacular Light Trail, City Reflections

Southampton Forward is inviting Old Town and city centre businesses to get involved in City Reflections: Illuminating Southampton’s Stories – an unmissable light projection trail that will transform the city centre and Old Town across four enchanting evenings, Wednesday 18 to Saturday 21 February 2026, from 6pm to 8pm.

Created in partnership with Southampton City Council, the event will bring thousands of visitors into the heart of the city at a quieter time of year, illuminating Southampton’s stunning Old Town with a six-point projection trail. Each stop will feature large-scale visuals, immersive soundscapes and storytelling inspired by the city’s remarkable Art, Maritime and Archaeology collections.

“We’re inviting Old Town businesses to join in and be part of this celebration of Southampton,” said Gabby Hyman, Marketing & Communications Manager at Southampton Forward. “Businesses can act as trail map pick-up points, display posters, and offer special promotions or discounts to visitors who complete the trail – helping create a buzz across the Old Town while attracting new customers.”

Participating businesses will be featured on the official City Reflections website and highlighted through Southampton Forward’s marketing campaign, gaining extra visibility and connecting with the thousands of visitors exploring the area during the event.

Councillor Alex Winning, Leader of Southampton City Council, said:

“We are delighted to be working with Southampton Forward on this inspiring project. It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase Southampton’s world-class collections and heritage ahead of the City Art Gallery’s reopening, while shining a light on our local businesses and communities.”

Stephen Manion, Executive Director of GO! Southampton, added:

“This project will bring Southampton’s Old Town to life. It’s a fantastic chance for local businesses to get involved with an event that will draw people in and highlight one of the city’s most beautiful and historic areas.”

Businesses interested in signing up can do so here:

Sign Up Here

ENDS

You can find out more about the City Reflections trail here:

City Reflections 2

City Reflections is presented by Southampton Forward in partnership with Southampton City Council and creative partners Light Up Trails and Double Take Projections

Supported by funding from Arts Council England, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Also supported by Southampton Forward’s founding city partners: Southampton City Council, University of Southampton, Southampton Solent University, GO! Southampton, Paris Smith LLP and Mayflower Theatre

Produced by:

Supported by:

Founding City Partners

Southampton’s Jazz Story sells out Mayflower Studios with a powerful celebration of the city’s jazz heritage

Posted on October 24, 2025 by -

Southampton’s Jazz Story sells out Mayflower Studios with a powerful celebration of the city’s jazz heritage

Southampton, 20 October 2025 – Southampton’s Jazz Story brought the house down at MAST Mayflower Studios on Saturday night, with a sold-out audience treated to an unforgettable celebration of the city’s deep connection with jazz and its place in the evolution of the genre in the UK.

Presented by Southampton Forward in partnership with Black History Month South, this one-night-only production celebrated how jazz in Southampton – shaped by its role as a global port — has reflected the city’s spirit of migration, cultural exchange and creativity for over a century.

Hosted and narrated by Grammy Award-winning writer and producer Mykaell S. Riley, the show brought history vividly to life through live music, storytelling and rare archive footage. Under the musical direction of Peter Edwards, a 12-piece house band delivered an exhilarating performance alongside seven remarkable vocalists – from internationally acclaimed names to exceptional Southampton talent.

Highlights included spellbinding performances from Claire Martin OBE and David McAlmont, whose vocals drew standing ovations, while Jay Phelps’s electrifying trumpet solos were a masterclass in contemporary jazz brilliance. Rising local stars Isla Croll and CJ Edwards shone alongside the soulful Queenie, performing reimagined works by Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Charles Mingus and Count Basie, as well as tributes to British and Caribbean pioneers Cleo Laine, John Dankworth and Joe Harriott.

The evening reached a joyful climax when the full band and all seven vocalists returned to the stage for Peter Edwards’s high-energy arrangement of Louis Armstrong’s When the Saints Go Marching In. The rousing finale brought the story of jazz and the city full circle – a fitting nod to Southampton’s most famous anthem and the pride of its football club, the Saints. The audience were clapping and singing along in a jubilant celebration of music, memory and local identity.

Claire Whitaker CBE, CEO of Southampton Forward, said:

“Southampton’s Jazz Story was something truly special – a sold-out celebration that brought together extraordinary musicians and an audience united by pride in this city’s unique cultural heritage. The project began as the creative vision of Don John and Black History Month South, whose input have been instrumental in uncovering Southampton’s jazz legacy and bringing this story to life.

None of it would have been possible without the incredible collaboration between our partners and supporters – from national funders and passionate donors to the local venues and individuals who share our love for this story. Our heartfelt thanks go to Cole Mathieson and the Concorde Club, Turner Sims and Kevin Appleby, and Mayflower Theatre, whose commitment and collaboration helped make this project a resounding success.”

Don John, founder of Black History Month South and co-creator of the project, added:

“This was a moving and joyful celebration of how jazz helped shape Southampton’s identity. It gave long-overdue recognition to the musicians and communities who made this city such an important part of Britain’s jazz story.”

The event was supported by Arts Council England, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, People’s Postcode Lottery, the Hollick Family Foundation and the Mark Allen Foundation, alongside Southampton Forward’s founding city partners – Southampton City Council, University of Southampton, Solent University, GO! Southampton, Paris Smith and Mayflower Theatre.

ENDS

For further information or images, please contact:
Becky Lewis – Lee Peck Media
✉️ becky@leepeckmedia.com

Celebrating Southampton’s stories in a projection trail that will light up the city

Posted on September 8, 2025 by -

Celebrating Southampton’s stories in a projection trail that will light up the city

Southampton Forward, in partnership with Southampton City Council, has announced a spectacular city-centre event in February 2026 that will celebrate Southampton’s Old Town, historic buildings and diverse communities.

City Reflections: Illuminating Southampton’s Stories, is a physical projection trail that will take place over four consecutive evenings from 6pm to 8pm on Wednesday 18th to Saturday 21st February 2026.

The event will transform six of Southampton’s most iconic heritage buildings in Southampton’s Old Town and city centre with large-scale projections, immersive soundscapes and storytelling inspired by the city’s Art, Maritime and Archaeology collections.

The trail showcases highlights from Southampton’s world-class collections, sharing some of the city’s most fascinating objects and stories as part of the celebrations leading up to the re-opening of Southampton City Art Gallery later in 2026, following its major refurbishment.

The event’s joint creative producers are Light Up Trails, which specialises in creating immersive festive experiences, and Double Take Projections, experts in architectural projection mapping, interactive installations and 3D motion graphics, lighting up buildings from St Paul’s Cathedral to the Sydney Opera House.

What sets City Reflections: Illuminating Southampton’s Stories apart is its commitment to community co-curation. Six Community Curators, each representing a different Southampton community, have worked closely with the creative team to explore the city’s archives, uncover meaningful stories and select rarely seen objects that resonate with both the building they’re paired with and the communities they represent. Their contributions have shaped the content and tone of each projection, ensuring that every experience is rooted in the voices and experience of local communities.

The trail’s themes and locations include:

  • King John’s Palace – Trade and Textiles, curated by Rajan Jolly (Indian community)
  • Holyrood Church – People and Global Connection, curated by Abdourahman Sanneh (African diaspora)
  • The Bargate – Culture, curated by Thelma Bishop Young (Young People, Sport and Disabled communities)
  • The Dancing Man Brewery (formerly The Wool House) – Ships and Shipping, curated by Stephen Muldowney-Mizen (Older Isolated People, in partnership with Communicare)
  • The Castle Vaults – City Maps and City Walls, curated by Beth Macey-Macleod (Neurodivergent people)
  • Southampton City Art Gallery – curated by Ri Baroche (LGBTQ+ community)

The trail offers something for everyone with an interest in art, history and storytelling, including residents, families, students and visitors to the city. The route will be easy to follow, with a digital trail map available online and printed copies available from selected outlets in the Old Town. All six stunning projections can be experienced in a single evening, or visitors can explore the trail over multiple nights at their own pace.

Claire Whitaker CBE, CEO of Southampton Forward, said: “City Reflections: Illuminating Southampton’s Stories aims to shine a light on Southampton’s world-class collections and celebrate the people and stories that shape the city today. It’s a fabulous opportunity to experience Southampton’s rich past through a projection trail that illuminates the stories etched into the city’s buildings and streets. None of this would have been possible without our partnership with Southampton City Council and the commitment and dedication of their amazing collections team, as well as the support from Arts Council England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Esmee Fairbairn Foundation and our founding city partners.”

Councillor Alex Winning, Leader of Southampton City Council, said: “We are delighted to be working with Southampton Forward on this inspiring project, which is a great opportunity to engage people with Southampton’s world-class collections ahead of the reopening of the City Art Gallery. We hope it will highlight local pride in the city in an immersive and accessible way.”

Libby Battaglia, Creative Director at Light Up Trails, said: ‘There is so much fascinating history in Southampton’s archives that deserves to be seen and heard. We’re thrilled to be creating this extraordinary trail with Double Take Projections and our Community Curators. Together we’ll produce breath-taking visuals that bring hidden stories to life, connecting people to their past and present in a truly magical way.’

ENDS

Presented by Southampton Forward in partnership with Southampton City Council

Creative partners: Light Up Trails and Double Take Projections

Supported by funding from Arts Council England, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Also supported by Southampton Forward’s founding city partners: Southampton City Council, University of Southampton, Southampton Solent University, GO! Southampton, Paris Smith LLP and Mayflower Theatre

Produced by:

Supported by:

Founding City Partners

Southampton charity champions older voices in City Reflections

Posted on July 31, 2025 by -

Soton charity champions under-represented voice of older generation for City Reflections’ project

SERVICE users and volunteers from a charity working to eradicate loneliness in Southampton are participating in a ships and shipping project for City Reflections to celebrate the city’s maritime history (July 2025).

Communicare is working with Southampton Forward and Southampton City Council to explore what ships and the city’s maritime history mean to the charity’s community, and the team has been exploring the city’s archives, maritime vaults and art collection.

Communicare Coordinator, Stephen Muldowney-Mizen, explains: “We’ve been looking for artefacts that tell the story of Southampton’s boats and shipping history, and recently we took a group of service users and volunteers to visit the SeaCity museum to discuss what we had found out so far, the stories they have about the port, sea and the city’s ships.”

Photograph caption: (L-R) Communicare Coordinator, Stephen Muldowney-Mizen, service users Ogomoditse Keitirile and Kishan Kumar, Communicare Manager, Annie Clewlow, and volunteer, Barbara Wright at SeaCity Museum for the ‘Cultural Curators’ City Reflections project.

As part of City Reflections: Illuminating Southampton’s Stories in February 2026, Stephen is one of six Community Curators, each working with their own community to co-create animated light projections for a trail through Southampton’s Old Town and city centre. Each curator has been paired with a heritage building and theme, uncovering stories and selecting objects from the city’s Art, Maritime and Archaeology Collections that connect both to the building and to what resonates most with their community. Stephen’s projection, inspired by ships and shipping, will be one of six installations on the trail.

Stephen adds: “By getting our service users and volunteers involved in this project, we’re amplifying an often-under-represented voice: the city’s older generation and those often isolated, as they are unable to get out and about without assistance. As life becomes more challenging, their world shrinks. It’s Communicare’s mission to be able to reconnect them with opportunities like this.

“Trips out are essential, as they provide so many benefits to someone’s physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. They help combat isolation, reduce feelings of loneliness, and provide social interaction, which is vital for maintaining healthy social connections. 

“The benefit of working with a demographic that is heavily weighted towards the older community is huge, as their knowledge, experience and understanding of the story of Southampton goes deeper than most.”

Communicare, which is a friendly, neighbourhood charity, provides services that enrich the lives of isolated people in and around Southampton.

Annie Clewlow, Manager at the charity, which works with the vulnerable and isolated says:

“This visit to SeaCity museum was an exciting opportunity to listen to each other’s stories and to take time to select the images and information that would be reflected across the city, re-energising them for younger generations. I was also able to share how I first set foot in the UK on Southampton soil at the age of two, having been born in Southern Rhodesia now Zimbabwe.”

“Arriving on board the Pendennis Castle Liner, trusty teddy under one arm, my abiding memory is of meeting my grandfather for the first time and finding a conker in the park.”

“Projects and trips out like these are essential to our service users, as they provide so many benefits to their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. They help combat isolation, reduce feelings of loneliness, and provide social interaction, which is vital for maintaining healthy social connections. 

“Outings also promote physical activity, stimulate the mind, and offer a change of scenery, improving one’s mood and cognitive function. We’re so grateful to City Reflections, Southampton Forward and SeaCity museum for involving us and our community with this project and for assisting us with our tip and our research.”

Communicare’s services are staffed by its devoted volunteers, known as Communiteers, who give their time freely.

Communicare is currently supporting around 750 individuals/families through tasks including befriending, transport for appointments and assistance with shopping and always needs more donations and volunteers to help with its work.

The services it provides are free to users, although beneficiaries are invited to make a donation if they are able to, and Communiteers are offered expenses.

Annie adds: “We’re here to help people live their best lives, rather than to just exist. There has been lots of research showing how loneliness impacts on both someone’s physical and mental wellbeing, so projects like this, which really help stimulate the mind and offer a chance to come together as a group and share stories are brilliant.”

To find out more, please visit www.communicareinsouthampton.org.uk.

ENDS

For further details about Communicare or for interviews, please contact Manager, Annie Clewlow on 07857 650707, or manager@communicareinsouthampton.org.uk.

Photo credit Tim Kenyon Photography.

Celebrating Southampton’s stories in a projection trail that will light up the city

Posted on September 30, 2025 by -

Celebrating Southampton’s stories in a projection trail that will light up the city

Southampton Forward, in partnership with Southampton City Council, has announced a spectacular city-centre event in February 2026 that will celebrate Southampton’s Old Town, historic buildings and diverse communities.

City Reflections: Illuminating Southampton’s Stories, is a physical projection trail that will take place over four consecutive evenings from 6pm to 8pm on Wednesday 18th to Saturday 21st February 2026.

The event will transform six of Southampton’s most iconic heritage buildings in Southampton’s Old Town and city centre with large-scale projections, immersive soundscapes and storytelling inspired by the city’s Art, Maritime and Archaeology collections.

The trail showcases highlights from Southampton’s world-class collections, sharing some of the city’s most fascinating objects and stories as part of the celebrations leading up to the re-opening of Southampton City Art Gallery later in 2026, following its major refurbishment.

The event’s joint creative producers are Light Up Trails, which specialises in creating immersive festive experiences, and Double Take Projections, experts in architectural projection mapping, interactive installations and 3D motion graphics, lighting up buildings from St Paul’s Cathedral to the Sydney Opera House.

What sets City Reflections: Illuminating Southampton’s Stories apart is its commitment to community co-curation. Six Community Curators, each representing a different Southampton community, have worked closely with the creative team to explore the city’s archives, uncover meaningful stories and select rarely seen objects that resonate with both the building they’re paired with and the communities they represent. Their contributions have shaped the content and tone of each projection, ensuring that every experience is rooted in the voices and experience of local communities.

The trail’s themes and locations include:

  • King John’s Palace – Trade and Textiles, curated by Rajan Jolly (Indian community)
  • Holyrood Church – People and Global Connection, curated by Abdourahman Sanneh (African diaspora)
  • The Bargate – Culture, curated by Thelma Bishop Young (Young People, Sport and Disabled communities)
  • The Dancing Man Brewery (formerly The Wool House) – Ships and Shipping, curated by Stephen Muldowney-Mizen (Older Isolated People, in partnership with Communicare)
  • The Castle Vaults – City Maps and City Walls, curated by Beth Macey-Macleod (Neurodivergent people)
  • Southampton City Art Gallery – curated by Ri Baroche (LGBTQ+ community)

The trail offers something for everyone with an interest in art, history and storytelling, including residents, families, students and visitors to the city. The route will be easy to follow, with a digital trail map available online and printed copies available from selected outlets in the Old Town. All six stunning projections can be experienced in a single evening, or visitors can explore the trail over multiple nights at their own pace.

Claire Whitaker CBE, CEO of Southampton Forward, said: “City Reflections: Illuminating Southampton’s Stories aims to shine a light on Southampton’s world-class collections and celebrate the people and stories that shape the city today. It’s a fabulous opportunity to experience Southampton’s rich past through a projection trail that illuminates the stories etched into the city’s buildings and streets. None of this would have been possible without our partnership with Southampton City Council and the commitment and dedication of their amazing collections team, as well as the support from Arts Council England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Esmee Fairbairn Foundation and our founding city partners.”

Councillor Alex Winning, Leader of Southampton City Council, said: “We are delighted to be working with Southampton Forward on this inspiring project, which is a great opportunity to engage people with Southampton’s world-class collections ahead of the reopening of the City Art Gallery. We hope it will highlight local pride in the city in an immersive and accessible way.”

Libby Battaglia, Creative Director at Light Up Trails, said: ‘There is so much fascinating history in Southampton’s archives that deserves to be seen and heard. We’re thrilled to be creating this extraordinary trail with Double Take Projections and our Community Curators. Together we’ll produce breath-taking visuals that bring hidden stories to life, connecting people to their past and present in a truly magical way.’

Sign up here: 

Sign up here

Presented by Southampton Forward in partnership with Southampton City Council

Creative partners: Light Up Trails and Double Take Projections

Supported by funding from Arts Council England, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Also supported by Southampton Forward’s founding city partners: Southampton City Council, University of Southampton, Southampton Solent University, GO! Southampton, Paris Smith LLP and Mayflower Theatre

Produced by:

Supported by:

Founding City Partners

Celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday your way

Posted on June 13, 2025 by -

Celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday your way – there’s so much to see and do

Anyone planning to visit Southampton for the exciting Tapestry Festival at Westquay Esplanade on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th July should include in their itinerary some of the other inspiring Austen anniversary events in and around the city.

Tapestry assembles world-class musicians in a brand-new, two-day festival inspired by Jane Austen’s love of folk music. Free to attend and unticketed, this new, family-friendly festival includes something for everyone.  The festival celebrates the city’s rich cultural life through exclusive sets, new collaborations and original music as part of Southampton’s year-long tribute to Jane Austen, a former resident of the city.

For a deeper dive into Jane Austen’s life, why not visit Sea City Museum’s A Very Respectable Company – Jane Austen and her Southampton Circle? Running from 2nd June to 31st October, this exhibition looks at some of the people who might have inspired characters in her famous novels. With loaned items from the archives of their descendants, it offers new and rarely seen materials connected to Austen and her social circle. Tickets can be purchased on the day or in advance via the Sea City website.

For an evening of light-hearted Austen-themed theatre, Mayflower’s Pride and Prejudice* (* Sort Of) runs from 10th to 14th June. This irreverent but affectionate adaptation of Austen’s iconic love story comes to Southampton direct from its triumph in London’s West End, where it won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy. Hailed by the Daily Telegraph as ‘smart, laugh out loud funny,’ and by Variety as ‘frankly sensational’, the show features a string of pop classics including ‘Young Hearts Run Free’ and ‘You’re So Vain’. Find out more and book tickets here.

Home-grown talent features at Mayflower Studios on 8th and 9th August in The Last Rose of Summer, a new one-act musical about Jane Austen’s life in Southampton with a cast of 50 talented local young people. The show explores Jane’s struggle to balance her ambition with society’s expectations of a Regency lady and includes choreography from prestigious dance companies Birmingham Royal Ballet and Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures. More information and tickets here.

Hungry for more? For details of guided walks, street theatre, open-air theatre, musical events and other activities inspired by Austen and her works, including the very grand Jane Austen 250 Regency Ball in December, Visit Southampton’s website has detailed listings.

More information can be found at: https://tapestryfestival.co.uk/

For further information or interviews please contact

Becky Lewis on 07955 618154

or email becky@leepeckmedia.com

Link to images: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/7lx5r2afmfsxi69zlojrf/APvRZ550WQLOuWMbuD9oApQ?rlkey=ljj3wunfhkbaiqgzkx618z719&st=av8pvjzp&dl=0

Click HERE for press kits, images, press releases, music.

Notes for editors:

  • Tapestry takes place at Westquay in Southampton on Saturday 19th July and Sunday 20th July 2025. Performances are from 2pm – 8pm and entry is free and unticketed.
  • Festivalgoers can enjoy a range of food and drink options throughout the weekend from local vendors and Westquay’s vibrant restaurant scene.
  • Tapestry is produced by Southampton Forward and sponsored by event hosts Westquay.
  • Programmed by David Jones, with input from event partners Southampton and Isle of Wight Music Hub.
  • Supported by Arts Council England, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and Southampton Forward’s city partners: Southampton City Council, University of Southampton, Solent University, GO! Southampton, Paris Smith LLP and Mayflower.
  • Media partners include Songlines Magazine.
  • Selected performances will be recorded for scheduled broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s Music Planet in August 2025.

TAPESTRY LINE-UP

Saturday 19 July

  • Alice Zawadzki is a singer, violinist, composer, and songwriter whose unique sound explores her Polish heritage and draws upon her early exposure to New Orleans jazz and gospel with the legendary Lillian Boutté. She inhabits her own stylistic realm which encompasses Mediterranean folk song, chamber music, improvisation and the world of acoustic jazz. For this special event she will perform with bassist Misha Mullov-Abbado with whom she released an album Za Górami on ECM Records.
  • Soumik Datta is one of the great sarod players of his generation. Described as a deeper version of the sitar, the sarod is prominent in Hindustani music. He’s worked with Nitin Sawhney and Anoushka Shankar and guested with musicians as diverse as Beyonce, Jay-Z and Bill Bailey, as well as creating film scores and working with leading choreographers including Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui. His work as a composer and instrumentalist won him the Aga Khan Music Award and an Honorary Fellowship from Trinity Laban. At Tapestry, Soumik unveils new music exploring migration, identity and belonging.
  • Sam Lee is a Mercury prize-nominated folk singer, writer, conservationist, song collector, broadcaster and activist who is one of the most prominent names on the UK folk scene. Revered for preserving and modernising traditional folk songs, Lee performs tracks from his acclaimed 2024 album Songdreaming, showcasing his rich and emotive voice across acoustic songs and atmospheric drone soundscapes inspired by his deep connection to nature and environmental themes.
  • Plus: performances from musicians representing Southampton’s vibrant music scene – to be announced
  • Plus: special guests to be announced

Sunday 20 July

  • Muireann Bradley is a young blues guitarist and singer from County Donegal, who specialises in acoustic fingerpicking country and ragtime blues. A remarkable talent, she recorded her debut album I Kept These Old Blues at the age of fifteen to huge critical acclaim, selling out globally and garnering her a loyal following and a major label record deal. Her personal interpretations of classic songs from the genre have wowed audiences on several TV appearances including Jools Holland’s Hootenanny, while legends such as Joe Bonamassa have joined her fan club – a must-see rising star.
  • Goblin Band is a collection of young queer musicians whose rousing performances draw inspiration from medieval, early music and British folk traditions. Alongside Broadside Hacks and Shovel Dance Collective, they are part of the flourishing new folk movement delivering a charismatic alternative expression of English traditional culture. Through impressive vocal harmonies, fiddle, squeezebox, hurdy-gurdy and recorders, expect a joyfully irreverent performance from this unmissable ensemble.
  • Seckou Keita is a renowned Senegalese kora virtuoso whose innovative approach and exceptional skill consistently push boundaries, masterfully blending tradition with a modern global flair. He has been part of several notable partnerships including Damon Albarn, harpist Catrin Finch and legendary American pianist Omar Sosa. His latest project Homeland has seen him tour internationally with an all-star lineup of Senegalese musicians in a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Dubbed as ‘the Hendrix of the kora’, he will create a special new collaboration for Tapestrywith Davide Mantovani (bass), Ansumana Susso (guitar) and Seydou Keinou (percussion).
  • Kathryn Tickell & The Darkening are a stellar group of musicians led by the foremost exponent of the Northumbrian pipes whose music is deeply rooted in the landscape and people of Northumbria. Last year she composed a poignant lament to mark the one-year anniversary of the felling of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree. Her most recent album Return to Kielderside marks 40 years since her debut release and is a gentle return to a more traditional sound. Here, she performs with her band The Darkening, named after the Northumbrian word for twilight.
  • Lopa Kothari co-hosts BBC Radio3’s Music Planet, a weekly world music programme that delivers an eclectic mix of sounds from around the world. She is also a journalist and curator for festivals and has chaired various discussion panels at music festivals and conferences. Lopa regularly hosts the main stage at the WOMAD Festival alongside music events such as Glastonbury, EFG London Jazz Festival, Latitude and more. She hosts both days at Tapestry.
  • Plus: performances from musicians representing Southampton’s vibrant music scene.

About Southampton Forward

Southampton Forward is a charity working in partnership across culture, festivals, events, tourism and cultural regeneration on projects rooted in creativity and community. They strive to transform Southampton through citywide and regional collaboration.

Website: www.southamptonforward.org.uk  

Sponsored by

Tapestry Media Partner

Event Partner

Supported by:

Founding City Partners

TAPESTRY- Final headline act announced Penguin Café

Posted on June 5, 2025 by -

TAPESTRY

A festival of world-class music and culture in Southampton

Final headline act announced

Penguin Café

Saturday 19 July

Westquay, Southampton

Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 July 2025

*Alice Zawadzki * Goblin Band * Kathryn Tickell* Muireann Bradley * Penguin Café * Sam Lee * Seckou Keita *Soumik Datta*

Tapestry, the vibrant free festival set on England’s south coast at Westquay in Southampton, is excited to announce its final headline act: Penguin Café, who will perform against the stunning backdrop of the city’s medieval walls on Saturday 19th July. They join the previously announced line-up of world-class, critically acclaimed musicians from around the globe, reflecting Southampton’s rich and ever-evolving cultural landscape.

For this special performance, Penguin Café brings back to life the music of the legendary Penguin Café Orchestra, the avant-pop ensemble formed by the late Simon Jeffes in 1970. Revived by his son Arthur Jeffes a decade after his father’s untimely passing in 1997, Penguin Café assembles a talented and diverse group of musicians with backgrounds in bands such as Suede, Gorillaz, and Razorlight. Together, they perform a distinctive blend of melodic instrumental pop infused with folk, jazz, minimalism, and global influences creating a sound that is both unique and evocative. The performance will feature classic compositions that have captivated audiences for decades, delivered with the ensemble’s signature warmth and inventiveness, guided by the spellbinding philosophy that was at the heart of The Penguin Café Orchestra.

The Penguin Café join a vibrant programme that draws on musical traditions from across the UK and beyond. Elsewhere on the bill is the sensational, rousing ‘queer folk’ music of the Goblin Band, the Northumbrian pipes of Kathryn Tickell, the boundary-pushing sounds of Indian sarod virtuoso Soumik Datta and Senegalese kora virtuoso Seckou Keita. Tapestry presents a stunning range of talent, from leading figures to rising stars. From vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Alice Zawadzki who delivers her spellbinding songs fresh from her Jazz FM Vocalist Of The Year Award to the celebrated, distinctive voice of singer, writer and conservationist Sam Lee, one of folk’s most renowned musicians, plus the emerging brilliance of Irish guitarist Muireann Bradley whose country blues fingerpicking is capturing widespread attention. Selected performances will be recorded by BBC Radio 3’s Music Planet for broadcast in August 2025 and the weekend hosted by Music Planet presenter, Lopa Kothari.

Alongside this inspiring mix of world-class artists, Tapestry presents a programme of exceptional Southampton talent and family-friendly workshops that include African drumming and ceilidh dancing – promising a fun and vibrant summer experience.

Click HERE  for full press release and to hear music from performing artists

Whether you’re into folk, Indian classical music or African rhythms, Tapestry offers a spectacular array of world-class performances that reflect Southampton’s diverse, creative and vibrant cultural tapestry.

As the lead sponsor, Westquay is proud to host Tapestry on The Esplanade, supporting an event that brings communities together through the power of music.

For more information visit TapestryFestival.co.uk

Click HERE for Press Kits; images, press releases, music.

Tapestry takes place at Westquay in Southampton on Saturday 19th July & Sunday 20th July 2025. Performances are from 2pm – 8pm and entry is free and un-ticketed.

Festivalgoers can enjoy a range of food and drink options throughout the weekend, with offerings from local vendors and Westquay’s vibrant restaurant scene.

Westquay is conveniently located just a few minutes’ walk from Southampton Central train station with regular trains from London taking approximately 1hr20 mins.

Produced by Southampton Forward and sponsored by Westquay.

Programmed by David Jones, with input from event partners Southampton and Isle of Wight Music Hub.

Supported by Arts Council England, Esmee Fairbairn Foundation and Southampton Forward’s city partners: Southampton City Council, University of Southampton, Solent University, GO! Southampton, Paris Smith LLP and Mayflower.

Media partners include Songlines Magazine. Selected performances will be recorded for scheduled broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s Music Planet in August 2025.

Southampton Forward work in partnership across culture, festivals, events, tourism and cultural regeneration on projects rooted in creativity and community. They strive to transform Southampton through citywide and regional collaboration.

For press enquiries please contact Riotsquad Publicity:

Julie Allison 07940 597018/ Julie@riotsquadpublicity.com

Siân Williams 07769 176 669 / sian@riotsquadpublicity.com

Sponsored by

Tapestry Media Partner

Event Partner

Supported by:

Founding City Partners

TAPESTRY – A festival of world-class music and culture in Southampton

Posted on April 1, 2025 by -

Southampton Forward presents

TAPESTRY

A festival of world-class music and culture in Southampton

Westquay, Southampton

Saturday 19th July & Sunday 20th July

*Alice Zawadzki * Goblin Band * Kathryn Tickell* Muireann Bradley *

*Sam Lee * Seckou Keita *Soumik Datta*

With iconic festivals WOMAD, Africa Oye and Cambridge Folk Festival sadly on pause this year, a brand-new event goes some way to filling the gap in the UK summer festival calendar. Tapestry is a free festival that takes place on the south coast at Westquay in Southampton against the backdrop of the city’s medieval walls. Taking place on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th July, its diverse lineup showcases music drawn from around the globe, reflecting the city’s rich and dynamic cultural landscape. Tapestry promises to be one of the most exciting events of the summer, bringing together a dynamic lineup of eight world-class, critically acclaimed musicians to perform in the heart of the city.

Tapestry forms part of Southampton’s city-wide celebration of the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen, one of the world’s most beloved writers. Living in Southampton in the early 1800s, Austen had a passion for folk music, though the sounds she heard then were far different from what fills the city’s music venues now. Tapestry is giving this celebration a contemporary twist and playfully asks the question, what kind of music might she be enjoying today?

From the sensational, rousing ‘queer folk’ music of the Goblin Band to the Northumbrian pipes of Kathryn Tickell; to the boundary-pushing sounds of Indian sarod virtuoso Soumik Datta and the spellbinding, wistful songs of vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Alice Zawadzki, Austen would surely be entranced by it all.  Tapestry presents a stunning range of talent, from leading figures to rising stars. From the celebrated, distinctive voice of Sam Lee, one of folk’s most renowned musicians, to the emerging brilliance of Irish guitarist Muireann Bradley whose country blues fingerpicking is capturing widespread attention. But what marks Tapestry a unique event are its exclusive performances and original music created specifically for the occasion, some of which will honour Jane Austen. Highlights include a special collaboration from master kora player, Seckou Keita, a luminary among the newest generation of African traditional musicians.

Whether you’re into folk, Indian classical music or African rhythms, Tapestry offers a spectacular array of world-class performances that reflect Southampton’s diverse, creative and vibrant cultural tapestry. Hosted by Radio 3’s Music Planet presenter Lopa Kothari, this is an event that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

As the lead sponsor, Westquay is proud to host Tapestry on The Esplanade, supporting an event that brings communities together through the power of music. Andy Jackson, Destination Director at Westquay, said: “Westquay is at the heart of Southampton, and we’re delighted to support an event that celebrates the city’s diversity, creativity, and cultural heritage. TAPESTRY is a fantastic opportunity for people to come together and enjoy incredible music — all for free.”

TAPESTRY LINE-UP

Saturday 19 July

  • Alice Zawadzki is a singer, violinist, composer, and songwriter whose unique sound explores her Polish heritage and draws upon her early exposure to New Orleans jazz and gospel with the legendary Lillian Boutté. She inhabits her own stylistic realm which encompasses Mediterranean folk song, chamber music, improvisation, and the world of acoustic jazz. For this special event she will perform with bassist Misha Mullov-Abbado with whom she released an album Za Górami on ECM Records.
  • Soumik Datta is one of the great sarod players of his generation. Described as a deeper version of the sitar, the sarod is prominent in Hindustani music. He’s worked with Nitin Sawhney and Anoushka Shankar and guested with musicians as diverse as Beyonce, Jay-Z and Bill Bailey, as well as creating film scores and working with leading choreographers including Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui. His work as a composer and instrumentalist won him the Aga Khan Music Award and an Honorary Fellowship from Trinity Laban. At Tapestry, Soumik unveils new music exploring migration, identity and belonging.
  • Sam Lee is a Mercury prize-nominated folk singer, writer, conservationist, song collector, broadcaster and activist who is one of the most prominent names on the UK folk scene.  Revered for preserving and modernising traditional folk songs, Lee performs tracks from his acclaimed 2024 album Songdreaming, showcasing his rich and emotive voice across acoustic songs and atmospheric drone soundscapes inspired by his deep connection to nature and environmental themes.
  • Plus: performances from musicians representing Southampton’s vibrant music scene – to be announced
  • Plus: Special Guests to be announced

Sunday 20 July

  • Muireann Bradley is a young blues guitarist and singer from County Donegal, who specialises in acoustic fingerpicking country and ragtime blues. A remarkable talent, she recorded her debut album I Kept These Old Blues at the age of fifteen, to huge critical acclaim, selling out globally garnering her a loyal following and a major label record deal. Her personal interpretations of classic songs from the genre have wowed audiences on several TV appearances, including Jools Holland’s Hootenanny while legends such as Joe Bonamassa have joined her fan club – a must-see rising star.
  • Goblin Band is a collection of young queer musicians whose rousing performances draw inspiration from medieval, early music, and British folk traditions. Alongside Broadside Hacks and Shovel Dance Collective, they are part of the flourishing new folk movement delivering a charismatic alternative expression of English traditional culture. Through impressive vocal harmonies, fiddle, squeezebox, hurdy-gurdy, and recorders, expect a joyfully irreverent performance from this unmissable ensemble.
  • Seckou Keita is a renowned Senegalese kora virtuoso whose innovative approach and exceptional skill consistently push boundaries, masterfully blending tradition with a modern global flair. He has been part of several notable partnerships including Damon Albarn, harpist Catrin Finch and legendary American pianist Omar Sosa. His latest project Homeland has seen him tour internationally with an all-star lineup of Senegalese musicians in a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.  Dubbed as “the Hendrix of the kora”, he will create a special new collaboration for Tapestry with Davide Mantovani (bass), Ansumana Susso (guitar) and Seydou Keinou (percussion).
  • Kathryn Tickell & The Darkening are a stellar group of musicians led by the foremost exponent of the Northumbrian pipes whose music is deeply rooted in the landscape and people of Northumbria. Last year she composed a poignant lament to mark the one-year anniversary of the felling of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree. Her most recent album Return to Kielderside marks 40 years since her debut release and is a gentle return to a more traditional sound. Here, she performs with her band The Darkening, named after the Northumbrian word for twilight.
  • Lopa Kothari co-hosts BBC Radio 3’s Music Planet, a weekly world music programme that delivers an eclectic mix of sounds from around the world. She is also a journalist and curator for festivals and has chaired various discussion panels at music festivals and conferences. Lopa regularly hosts the main stage at the WOMAD Festival alongside music events such as Glastonbury, EFG London Jazz Festival, Latitude and more. She hosts both days at Tapestry.

  • Plus: performances from musicians representing Southampton’s vibrant music scene

For more information, visit TapestryFestival.co.uk

Click HERE for Press Kits; images, press releases, music.

Tapestry takes place at Westquay in Southampton on Saturday 19th July & Sunday 20th July 2025. Performances are from 2pm – 8pm and entry is free and un-ticketed.

Festivalgoers can enjoy a range of food and drink options throughout the weekend, with offerings from local vendors and Westquay’s vibrant restaurant scene.

Westquay is conveniently located just a few minutes’ walk from Southampton Central train station with regular trains from London taking approximately 1hr20 mins.

Produced by Southampton Forward and sponsored by Westquay.

Programmed by David Jones, working with Southampton and IoW Music.

Supported by Arts Council England, Esmee Fairbairn Foundation and Southampton Forward’s city partners: Southampton City Council, University of Southampton, Solent University, GO! Southampton, Paris Smith LLP and Mayflower.

Media Partner: Songlines

Southampton Forward work in partnership across culture, festivals, events, tourism and cultural regeneration on projects rooted in creativity and community. They strive to transform Southampton through citywide and regional collaboration.

For press enquiries please contact Riotsquad Publicity:

Julie Allison 07940 597018/ Julie@riotsquadpublicity.com

Siân Williams 07769 176 669 / sian@riotsquadpublicity.com

Sponsored by

Tapestry Media Partner

Event Partner

Supported by:

Founding City Partners

Multi-Stories Returns for Its Third Year at Westquay’s Multi-Storey Car Park

Posted on March 11, 2025 by -

Multi-Stories Returns for Its Third Year at Westquay’s Multi-Storey Car Park

The highly anticipated Multi-Stories event is set to return for its third year, transforming Westquay’s multi-storey car park into a vibrant urban street art gallery on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th May 2025. This year’s theme, ‘Connections’, celebrates not only the physical link between the different levels of artwork previously created in years one and two but also the deeper connections between people, communities, and creativity.

Building on the success of the past two years, Multi-Stories 2025 will further cement Southampton’s reputation as home to one of the most comprehensive public collections of street art in the UK, featuring permanent works from over 60 of the country’s most notable artists. 2025 will see murals spread across nine levels and visitors can expect to encounter something new and unexpected, with additional surprises yet to be announced.

Andy Jackson, Destination Director at Westquay, is delighted to see the event return in 2025: “We are thrilled to welcome Multi-Stories back for its third year at Westquay. This event has transformed our multi-storey car park into a dynamic and unexpected creative space, celebrating the incredible artistic talent within Southampton and beyond. We look forward to seeing how the theme of ‘Connections’ brings artists and communities together this year.”

The theme of ‘Connections’ will play a central role not only in the murals themselves but also in how the event is structured, promoting collaborations between international and local artists.

Rick Walker from Paintshop, the creative studio leading on curation and artist selection, said: “Our vision is to create a world-class mural gallery in Southampton, bringing in top-level artists from far and wide while also inspiring and involving the local community. This year, with the theme of ‘Connections’, we are actively encouraging artists to collaborate, reflecting the unique and collective spirit of street art.”

Beyond the striking visuals, Multi-Stories is also a catalyst for bringing people together. Claire Whitaker CBE, CEO of Southampton Forward, added: “Multi-Stories is a shining example of how public spaces can be reimagined to bring communities together through creativity. The event not only showcases incredible artistic talent but also creates lasting connections within our city.”

Engagement is at the heart of Multi-Stories, promoting creativity as accessible to all. As part of the team producing the event, creative consultant and artist Joe Ross from Good Idea Today, is leading on community workshops and emerging artist commissions. Emphasising the importance of inclusivity, she said: “From badge-making to life drawing, we want to ensure that everyone, regardless of age or experience, can take part in this celebration of street art and creativity”.

The 2025 edition of Multi-Stories will feature live mural painting from leading street artists, who will be collaborating in real-time to create large-scale murals. A dedicated community workshop area on Level 5 will provide interactive activities, including graffiti canvas painting, badge making, sticker art, chalk & tape art, and life drawing.

The ‘Design Your Own Mural’ competition will invite local schools to submit mural designs, with the winning entry recreated as a permanent mural by a professional artist during the event. Visitors can also experience the return of South Coast Makers Market, skateboarding and breakdancing displays and lessons, sets by local DJs and sample some tasty street food.

Since its inception in 2023, Multi-Stories has become one of the most significant street art initiatives in the UK, transforming the car park into an evolving permanent public art gallery. This year, artists will be encouraged to collaborate, creating murals that reflect the event’s overarching theme and the interwoven nature of art, culture, and community.

With even more to be revealed in the coming months, 2025 is set to be Multi-Stories’ most exciting year yet, cementing its place as a must-see event on Southampton’s cultural calendar.

The event will take place on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th May, 12 – 6 pm on multiple levels of the Westquay Multi-Storey Car Park. The car park will remain open to vehicles as usual.