This week in Notts! Enjoy craft beer, Beltane celebrations, Beeston Film Festival and lots more. Here's our top picks...
When: Weds 23 - Sat 26 April
Where: Arc Cinema Beeston
How much: Varied
Forget Cannes and Sundance, the Beeston Film Festival returns this week with a brilliant programme of short, independent films being screened in the comfort of Arc Cinema. This year they have a whopping 96 films from a huge range of countries around the world, honouring both our commonalities and differences. The brilliant thing about BFF is that, with films ranging from four to thirty minutes long, you can take in a variety of films in one day, plus there are workshops to get involved in, with it all topped off with the BFF award ceremony, the B'Oscars!
When: Wed 22 April
Where: Motorpoint Arena
How much: From £33.50
Singer, songwriter, radio DJ, podcaster and all-round legend Rick Astley heads to Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena with his UK and Ireland Reflection tour. This household name will be joined by nineties songstress Gabrielle in support, where he’ll be performing a range of chart-topping hits, of course, including firm favourite Never Gonna Give You Up. The global star is a multimillion seller, winning a 1998 BRIT Award for his debut single. Personally, we can’t wait to get ‘rick-rolled’, and we’re sure you can’t either.
When: Thursday 23 April
Where: Metronome
How much: £27.50
Damon Gough is set to perform under stage name Badly Drawn Boy in an acoustic gig at the Metronome, consisting of an intimate conversation with Chris Hawkins from BBC 6 Music. Gough is known for his engaging concerts, where he captivates the audience not only through his lo-fi tinged indie songs, but also through his spur-of-the-moment storytelling and conversations mid-gig. With prize-winning albums and scores appearing in Paul and Chris Weitz’s About A Boy film adaptation, Badly Drawn Boy has been a success since the 90s, and this Q&A event offers insight into the creative mind under Gough’s well-worn beanie hat.
When: Fri 24 April
Where: The Palais
How much: £16.50
It’s time to get out of Shrek’s swamp, and get into a tribute band: The Ogretones! Boasting a number one spot as the UK’s best musical tribute to Shrek’s soundtrack (certainly a unique accolade), they’re reviving nostalgic tunes from Smash Mouth, Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, and more. This nine-piece band comes together to form a Shrek ensemble in front of our very eyes. This is definitely worth your consideration, as who can say when such a fairy tale band might come to Notts again…?
When: Fri 24 April
Where: The Nest
How much: £20.35
Celebrating global heritage through the power of arts, the Worldwide Festival runs from 4pm until late, providing a day packed with entertainment. The multicultural day party will be taking place at The Nest, a new venue known for its lively atmosphere, food and drink. With a cutting-edge sound system and festival-like lighting arrangement alongside its open sunny courtyard, the recently-converted factory is the perfect setting for the event. The festival brings together communities of all ages and backgrounds in a welcoming, family-friendly environment, with a proud showcase of traditional music, dance, food, art and attire.
Nottingham Independents’ Castle Beer Festival
When: Fri 24 - Sat 25 April
Where: Nottingham Castle
How much: From £12.10
The Castle Beer Festival is back and better than ever. Festival-goers can expect gaggles of great people, great music, and even greater beer at Nottingham Castle. Entirely organised by the breweries themselves, this weekend-takeover of the historic grounds will feature over 100 different beers from Nottingham’s best independent breweries including; Black Iris, Blue Monkey, Castle Rock, Hollowstone, Lenton Lane, Liquid Light, Magpie, Neon Raptor, Shipstones and more. Provided there’s some late April sun, this should be a great chance to make some relaxed memories in the fresh air with your mates.
When: Saturday 25 April
Where: Sneinton Market Avenues
How much: Free
It's been a cold winter, but soon the world will be coming alive. Artists, witches, and crafters will emerge from their winter hideaways with new magic to share! Organised by Pagan Pride and Minor Oak, this year's Pagan Market will feature independent artists, craftpeople, makers, and local food vendors from across the city. We can expect an enclave of handmade, one-of-a-kind trinkets, models, statues, jewellery, candles, clothes, accessories and more, all featured in the independents-and-creatives haven Sneinton Market Avenues. There will be live music displays and unique performances from the Nottingham Shakespeare Company and Mummers’ English Folk-Play – just to name a few.
Remember to check out our events listings for more things to do this week. If you have an event you'd like to promote, head to Notts.com to check our free listings offers.
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