An eccentric lottery winner who lives alone on a remote island tries to make his fantasies come true by getting his favorite musicians to perform at his home. Starring Tom Basden, Tim Key and Sian Clifford

Step back in time with Neil Sands and his wonderful West End cast as they celebrate an incredible 20 record-breaking years of the nation’s favourite afternoon nostalgia shows with their hit show "Remember When".

For over 25 years Suspiciously Elvis AKA Ivor Potter has been bringing the magic of Elvis Presley to life on stages all around the world. Backed by a powerhouse live band, he delivers an unforgettable show that captures the voice, energy, and charisma of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll.

A programme of passion, drama and humour of celebrated opera pieces featured in films including Pretty Woman, Shawshank Redemption, Quantum of Solace, The Witches of Eastwick, Gallipoli, Mrs Doubtfire, Amadeus, Family Man, Quartet, Rocky Balboa, The Father, Moonstruck, Chariots of Fire, The Godfather, Titanic and more…

Set in the 1930s, a group of pretentious rich and famous get together for a weekend of relaxation at a hunting resort. But when a murder occurs, each one of these interesting characters becomes a suspect.

Sir Derek Jacobi ‘is an icon of Stage and Screen’ … known for his work at the Royal National Theatre, has a BAFTA, Olivier, Emmy, Screen Guild and Tony Award and to top it all off; Derek was given a Knighthood for his services to theatre by Queen Elizabeth II.  Not bad for a boy who grew up in Essex, the son of a corner shop owner and a secretary. From Leytonstone and the Leyton Players to ‘Hamlet’ at the Edinburgh Fringe and a scholarship to Cambridge.

Lightning and Thunder, a Milwaukee husband and wife Neil Diamond tribute act, experience soaring success and devastating heartbreak in their musical journey together.

A View from the Saddle’ – Giles & Annie Henschel’s 10,000-mile Mediterranean journey on two aging BMW motorbikes, exploring how climate change is affecting the olive harvest.

In the countdown to D-Day, the plight of an African American GI sentenced to death for a rape he did not commit gripped the nation. Leroy Henry’s story unfolded against the backdrop of Operation Overlord, provoking an extraordinary response in Bath and the nation. The ticking clock narrative of a controversy that rattled American and British authorities gives us an entirely new prism through which to view the historic watershed. This fresh perspective challenges our assumptions on race, the ‘special relationship’ and the British people’s collective power in D-Day Britain.

In an age of Generative AI and relentless digital news, artist and reporter George Butler offers a powerful alternative: slowing down to truly see. This visually rich, thought-provoking talk challenges audiences to look beyond headlines and photography, and to view the world through an artist’s eyes: with empathy, compassion, and creativity.

Dorset authors Tess Burnett and Elizabeth Cooke discuss their writing journey including as mature writers. Both authors write crime, mystery, and historical fiction.

Come and meet a group of local writers in a showcase of their work facilitated by Don Nordberg.

Come and meet a group of local writers in a showcase of their work facilitated by Don Nordberg.

Come and meet a group of local writers in a showcase of their work facilitated by Don Nordberg.

In the spirit of previous volumes, Damien Lewis reveals the untold stories of the war’s most daring and audacious escapes as executed by the world’s most famous fighting force, the SAS.

Best-selling true crime author Mark Bridgeman discusses his research into an unsolved murder on Jersey.

Faith will talk about her humorous, Dorset-based crime cosy novels, The Body on the Roundabout and Death by Canape, which were inspired by her career as a news reporter in the county. She’ll explain why, after accidentally leaving journalism for PR, she missed her old newsroom so much, she created one of her own, the stories behind her characters and locations, and why she didn’t initially want to include a crime in her novel!

Best-selling true crime author Mark Bridgeman will be returning to the festival this year with another infamous real-life Dorset murder trial – in which YOU the audience will become the jury.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the electrifying era of the 60s to the 90s – with a show that will blow your mind. Hit aft

One family, the heart of the American dream. When wartime delivers profits for Joe, it comes at a price when his partner is charged with criminal manufacturing deals, and his eldest son goes missing in action. Will peacetime bring peace of mind, or will he be confronted by the consequence of his actions?

Join The Moonlight Swing Band for a journey through the icons of swing, celebrating the Big Band sound, covering everything from the 1940s golden age to the modern stage. Featuring the music of Glenn Miller, Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Michael Buble.....and More!

Celebrate all of the magical hits of Motown with UK based live tribute show Legends of Motown.

Bye Bye Baby are a jaw-dropping tribute to the musical phenomenon ‘Jersey Boys’ and the timeless, iconic music of ‘Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons’. Incredible four part harmonies, roof raising falsetto complete with energetic and stylish choreography ensures that Bye Bye Baby is a show that will make it a night remember!

This show by Dr Mark Baldwin is one of the Second World War’s most fascinating stories is that of the Allied Codebreakers, who deciphered a vast number of German secret messages and used the intelligence so gained to hasten Allied victory. The Germans had entrusted their secret communications to an ingenious ciphering machine the Enigma, which was portable, easily operated, and could be set up in millions of ways.

In this special writing workshop, Fiona Benson PhD will facilitate poetry creations with people from Ukraine and their host families.

Pegeen Flaherty’s life is turned upside down when a young man walks into her pub claiming that he’s killed his father. Instead of being shunned, the killer becomes a local hero and begins to win hearts, that is until a second man unexpectedly arrives on the scene…

Sturminster Newton Orchestra was formed in 1990 by a group of friends wanting to create[...]

Step into a world where music breathes again — raw, real, and deeply moving. UNPLUG’D is a stunning live production that celebrates the golden era of MTV Unplugged, capturing the heart and honesty of stripped-back performance. Rediscover the beauty of live music — unfiltered, unforgettable, and completely UNPLUG’D

Featuring over 100 singers from one of the area’s fastest-growing independent choirs, the performance will also proudly include the brand new Sturminster Newton ROKiT Choir group—making this a truly special local celebration of music and community.Audiences can look forward to a fantastic selection of songs from some of the most loved musicals around. From the powerful drama of Les Miserable to the feel-good anthems of We Will Rock You, alongside hits from Rock of Ages, Ghost and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

H is for Hawk follows Helen who, after the sudden death of her father loses herself in the memories of their time birding and exploring the natural world together and turns the ancient art of falconry-rooted in European tradition-training a wild goshawk named Mabel to navigate her profound loss. But as she teaches Mabel to hunt and fly free, Helen discovers how deeply she has neglected her own emotions and life. What begins as an act of endurance transforms into an intimate journey of resilience and healing.

The Stur Half, organised by the Dorset Doddlers is a road race and has been running since 1990.  The route follows rural roads in and  around Sturminster Newton.

The Alter Eagles are delighted to be coming back to the Exchange for the fourth time, bringing with them a brand new theatre show for 2026 that celebrates their 21st year of touring. Since their debut gig in 2003, the Alter Eagles have established themselves as one of the country's top tribute acts, headlining at theatres all over the country, playing a mix of old and new Eagles' songs.

Back by popular demand. A wonderfully varied and thrilling night of blues! Three great acts showcasing the superb talents of the truly authentic Boogie-Woogie piano and vocals of Julian Phillips, the ‘uplifting’ and ‘inspirational’ Acoustic Roots of Mark Harrison (guitar & vocals); and as always, the night will close with the dynamic and ever-popular Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion, whose Hammond-organ-driven electric blues blend old-school tradition with contemporary flare and sophistication.Prepare for an unforgettable night of entertainment!

Noasis is the definitive tribute to Manchester's super group Oasis, formed in 2006 the band has toured extensively performing the anthems that have defined a generation!

The Oak Fair is a totally unique event in rural Dorset. We are a family run estate & event and there is nothing corporate about us. One of the main reasons we are so special is of course our skilled and talented demonstrators and exhibitors who come from near and far to celebrate traditional crafts & skills with us. From demonstrations of surfboard making to have-a-go archery, there is something for everyone at the Oak Fair.

Step into a world where music breathes again — raw, real, and deeply moving. UNPLUG’D is a stunning live production that celebrates the golden era of MTV Unplugged, capturing the heart and honesty of stripped-back performance. Rediscover the beauty of live music — unfiltered, unforgettable, and completely UNPLUG’D

The Oak Fair is a totally unique event in rural Dorset. We are a family run estate & event and there is nothing corporate about us. One of the main reasons we are so special is of course our skilled and talented demonstrators and exhibitors who come from near and far to celebrate traditional crafts & skills with us. From demonstrations of surfboard making to have-a-go archery, there is something for everyone at the Oak Fair.

Traditional Celtic music at its best! With fire-driven instrumentals, topical songs, haunting ballads and a good dose of humour, the Tannahill Weavers have transformed traditional material and brought it into the modern world, vitally alive and kicking.

Bringing you a taste of the cheesy goodness that is Sturminster Newton.

When Paul McCartney, Phil Collins, The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner, Bob Geldof and Brian May need a Party Band, who do they call…? Well, they obviously want the best for their parties, so nothing else will do. And with JAMIE & THE FALCONS (formerly The World Famous Red Sox) they know they’re in in good hands, because at some point they’ve probably played with a Falcon or two..

Bringing you a taste of the cheesy goodness that is Sturminster Newton.

Marquise de Merteuil is a master in the art of survival. Alongside the magnetic Vicomte de Valmont, they turn seduction into strategy and weaponise desire.  But when their alliance collapses into rivalry, the battle between them threatens to destroy everyone in their path.

A fantastic evening awaits you from a man who a short while ago was awarded the MBE by the Queen for Services to Music and who in May of 2019 made a welcome return to the British music charts with his top ten hits CD, Dreamboats & Petticoats presents The Very Best Of Marty Wilde and again in October 2020 he made the UK album charts with all-new material on his “Running Together” project which was issued on CD and Limited Edition vinyl.

Kerry is recognised as the leading lady of West End and Broadway musicals, with a number of starring roles in London, New York, and around the world. She has achieved chart-topping success as a recording artist signed to Universal Decca with her debut album Anthems.

Whether you’re a lifetime Springsteen fan or discovering his music for the first time, you will be captivated by the thundering guitars, iconic saxophone and powerful lyrics that defined generations.Get ready to experience the legacy of The Boss and rock the night away.

At last, an Irish music show that has come out of Ireland without the clichés that usually follow! There are no twee costumes or backing tracks here. Instead, you get incredibly talented musicians and dancers who simply want to bring you the sound and fun of Ireland in an intimate and homely setting.

A kaleidoscope of songs peppered with irreverent radio broadcast detours, inevitable surprises and is accompanied by pianist David Harrod featuring Solomon Bain. It’s a sharp-witted, funny and deliciously unpredictable evening you’ll struggle to forget.

A kaleidoscope of songs peppered with irreverent radio broadcast detours, inevitable surprises and is accompanied by pianist David Harrod featuring Solomon Bain. It’s a sharp-witted, funny and deliciously unpredictable evening you’ll struggle to forget.

The ON anoTHEr NIGHT show is DS:UK’s 5th tour, representing the final era of Dire Straits’ phenomenal career, and brings a genuine and unique experience that will bring fans the tracks they love from On Every Street, alongside the classic Dire Straits songs you love to hear.This will be DS:UK’s most packed and exciting set yet… are you and your friend gonna come around? Audiences can look forward to a fantastic selection of songs from some of the most loved musicals around. From the powerful drama of Les Miserable to the feel-good anthems of We Will Rock You, alongside hits from Rock of Ages, Ghost and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The question of suitability to play the Moody Dane has preoccupied theatre makers for centuries. Scholars have long debated age, physique, gender and temperament - yet all have overlooked the perfect candidate: an egg.

The question of suitability to play the Moody Dane has preoccupied theatre makers for centuries. Scholars have long debated age, physique, gender and temperament - yet all have overlooked the perfect candidate: an egg.

If you love animals, then you are going to love this show. A show dedicated to and celebrating all creatures great and small. The only show around that you get to see your favourite animals bursting out onto the stage right before your very eyes. The original animal show with NO LIVE ANIMALS.

If you love animals, then you are going to love this show. A show dedicated to and celebrating all creatures great and small. The only show around that you get to see your favourite animals bursting out onto the stage right before your very eyes. The original animal show with NO LIVE ANIMALS.

From Seal to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, from ABC to Yes, from Grace Jones to Belle and Sebastian, and from Robbie Williams to Pet Shop Boys, one man has been at the heart of some of Britain’s most important pop music of the past 50 years: Trevor Horn. Following the publication of his best-selling memoir, Adventures In Modern Recording: From ABC to ZTT, Horn is visiting a select handful of theatres to talk about his exploits as a bona fide legend of pop.

Los Pacaminos was formed in summer 1992, when UK pop star Paul Young’s love of all things Tex-Mex led to exploratory discussions with some like-minded musician friends. Within a few weeks, Los Pacaminos was born and rehearsals had begun.

ELO Again are back with their stunning 'BACK to the BLUE' Tour celebrating the truly universal music of Jeff Lynne and the Electric Light Orchestra.  ELO Again really give you a dramatic taste of what a legendary ELO concert would have been like back in their heyday, the whole experience is professionally re-enacted with amazing sound reproduction, light show and visual effects.

Sturminster Newton Orchestra was formed in 1990 by a group of friends wanting to create[...]

Sturminster Newton Orchestra was formed in 1990 by a group of friends wanting to create[...]

Sturminster Newton Orchestra was formed in 1990 by a group of friends wanting to create[...]

Sturminster Newton Orchestra was formed in 1990 by a group of friends wanting to create[...]

Sturminster Newton Orchestra was formed in 1990 by a group of friends wanting to create[...]

Sturminster Newton Orchestra was formed in 1990 by a group of friends wanting to create[...]